Transform My Dance Studio – The Podcast For Dance Studio Owners: Recent Episodes

Clint Salter

The Transform My Dance Studio Podcast features inspiring sessions with business and dance gurus from all over the globe who reveal their greatest tips, methods and strategies to help you become the ‘go-to’ studio you have always dreamed of. You will be educated, motivated and challenged to think differently about the way you run your studio. Join host Clint Salter weekly as he extracts the golden takeaways from these great business minds in an entertaining and inspiring minefield of information.

Making your first hire can feel overwhelming, especially when you've built your studio with your own two hands.

We're bringing back this insightful conversation from our podcast archives because its lessons on hiring, leadership, and delegation remain timeless for studio owners.

In this episode, Mary Giattino shares the personal story of taking over her family's dance studio, hiring her very first studio manager, and learning that true delegation isn't about giving away tasks. It's about empowering others to lead. Through honest reflections on hiring, trust, systems, and leadership, Mary offers practical insights to help studio owners build stronger teams and create a business that can grow beyond themselves.

What You'll Learn

Why your first hire is one of the biggest leadership decisions you'll make
How Mary transitioned from Broadway to owning her family's dance studio
What to look for when hiring a studio manager
Why delegation is about empowerment—not just assigning tasks
How to build trust while maintaining accountability
The importance of systems and clear communication
Why culture fit matters just as much as skill set
How delegation allows studio owners to focus on vision and growth
Lessons Mary learned from growing her admin team over the past 12 years
Why leadership and delegation are continual learning processes

Mary Giattino is a Broadway choreographer, educator, and longtime dance studio owner. She owns Stage Door School of Dance in Long Island, New York, serves as a DSOA Inner Circle Studio Growth Coach, and has worked on numerous Broadway and national touring productions, including Billy Elliot, Dear Evan Hansen, Fun Home, and White Christmas. Today, Mary combines her professional performing arts experience with decades of studio leadership to help dance studio owners build stronger businesses and teams.

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Are you leading your team the way you want to be remembered?

We're resharing one of our favorite episodes from Kelli Leighton's Innovate to Thrive series because its leadership lessons are just as relevant today as when it first aired. If you've ever felt frustrated by staff performance, struggled with accountability, or found yourself carrying too much of the workload, this episode will challenge you to look at leadership from a new perspective.

Kelli shares the mindset shifts and practical strategies that helped her build a stronger, more innovative team. You'll also hear about the unique role she introduced in her studio—the Director of Removing Friction—and how it's helped streamline operations, improve communication, and reduce stress for both her team and her clients.

What You'll Learn

Why your team is a direct reflection of your leadership
How to perform an effective team audit
The importance of accountability without sacrificing culture
How innovation starts with leadership, not creativity alone
Why your team needs a mindset shift—not just new systems
How to separate emotional feedback from real business data
The difference between macro and micro client pain points
Why empowering staff leads to better decision-making
What a "Director of Removing Friction" does—and why every studio needs one
Practical ways to build a forward-thinking, innovative team

Whether you're growing your team or refining the one you already have, you'll walk away with actionable ideas to become a more confident leader and build a studio culture that supports long-term success.

Kelli Leighton is the owner and Artistic Director of Leighton Dance Project in California and a longtime member and coach inside the Dance Studio Owners Association Inner Circle. Passionate about helping studio owners embrace innovation, Kelli combines creativity with practical leadership strategies to build thriving businesses, strong teams, and exceptional studio cultures. Through her Innovate to Thrive series, she encourages studio owners to think differently, lead confidently, and turn big ideas into meaningful action.

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Can a stronger studio culture be the difference between families who stay for one season… and families who stay for a lifetime?

Today we are resharing one of our most-loved episodes, because every studio owner can benefit from its message. In this inspiring episode, guest host Kim McSwain shares practical leadership strategies for building a dance studio where students, parents, teachers, and staff all feel connected and valued.

From strengthening communication and empowering your faculty to giving students a voice, Kim shares simple, actionable ideas to help you create a community where families feel they truly belong.

What You'll Learn:

Why studio owners must lead by creating connection, not just managing operations
How being visible and available strengthens your studio culture
Practical ways to build stronger relationships with parents and families
Why your teachers need to be present beyond the classroom
How clear communication builds trust and loyalty
Why giving students a voice creates deeper engagement
Simple activities that strengthen parent-child connections through dance
How your studio can become a safe place and true community for everyone

Kim McSwain is an internationally respected dance educator, mentor, and speaker with decades of experience training dancers, teachers, and studio owners. After performing professionally with artists including Britney Spears, NSYNC, and Michael Jackson, Kim dedicated her career to developing exceptional educators and helping dance studios build stronger cultures through her Changing Lives program.

Can a stronger studio culture be the difference between families who stay for one season… and families who stay for a lifetime?

Today we are resharing one of our most-loved episodes, because every studio owner can benefit from its message. In this inspiring episode, guest host Kim McSwain shares practical leadership strategies for building a dance studio where students, parents, teachers, and staff all feel connected and valued.

From strengthening communication and empowering your faculty to giving students a voice, Kim shares simple, actionable ideas to help you create more than just a dance studio—you'll build a community where families feel they truly belong.

What You'll Learn

Why studio owners must lead by creating connection, not just managing operations
How being visible and available strengthens your studio culture
Practical ways to build stronger relationships with parents and families
Why your teachers need to be present beyond the classroom
How clear communication builds trust and loyalty
Why giving students a voice creates deeper engagement
Simple activities that strengthen parent-child connections through dance
How your studio can become a safe place and true community for everyone

Kim McSwain is an internationally respected dance educator, mentor, and speaker with decades of experience training dancers, teachers, and studio owners. After performing professionally with artists including Britney Spears, NSYNC, and Michael Jackson, Kim dedicated her career to developing exceptional educators and helping dance studios build stronger cultures through her Changing Lives program.

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Claim Limelight Teamwear's exclusive offer for new studio partners by emailing info@limelightteamwear.com and mention the DSOA podcast!

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Your studio culture isn't created by your mission statement—it's built in the hundreds of small moments your dancers, teachers, and families experience every single day.

In this episode, Katie chats with mental performance coach and leadership educator Lauren Ritchie to explore how studio owners can intentionally create environments where dancers feel supported, challenged, and inspired to grow.

Together they discuss why values alone aren't enough, how everyday interactions shape the experience inside your studio, and why emotional regulation may be one of the most important leadership skills a studio owner can develop.

What You'll Learn

Why culture is created through daily actions—not mission statements
The difference between aspirational values and lived values
How leadership energy shapes your studio environment
Why "high challenge + high support" creates better dancers
How fear-based coaching impacts long-term development
The importance of emotional regulation as a leader
Why predictable leaders build safer learning environments
Practical ways to communicate with parents and staff
How boundaries strengthen relationships
Small leadership habits that transform studio culture

Lauren Ritchie is a mental performance coach, educator, and speaker who specializes in resilience, conscious coaching, and leadership. She has developed international training programs and mental performance curricula for dancers, athletes, and coaches, helping leaders build supportive, high-performing environments where people can thrive.

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Growth doesn't usually stall because you run out of opportunities—it stalls because you stop questioning what's possible.

In this episode, Lisa sits down with innovation expert Diana Kander to explore why successful business owners often stop growing, how curiosity fuels innovation, and why experimentation—not perfection—is the key to long-term success.

If you've ever felt like you've hit a ceiling or wondered what's next for your studio, this conversation will challenge the way you think about growth.

What You Will Learn:

Why success often creates complacency
The difference between customer focus and efficiency
How curiosity fuels innovation and business growth
Why experimentation beats repeating old strategies
How to escape the "expert trap"
Why your calendar reflects your business priorities
The three questions every CEO should ask weekly
How to identify your ideal customer
Why personal growth drives business growth
How to create momentum instead of simply staying busy

Diana Kander is a bestselling author, entrepreneur, keynote speaker, and growth mindset coach who helps leaders create cultures of innovation through curiosity, experimentation, and strategic thinking. She is the author of Get Curious & Grow, The Curiosity Muscle, Go Big or Go Home, and All In Startup.

Explore our partners:

Sign up for Studio Sync - dsoa.com/syncmembership

Check out Creative Branding Studio and the Dance Content Club at creativebrandingstudio.com

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Follow The Dance Studio Owners Association:

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What if the biggest thing standing between you and your next level of growth… isn't your business? It's your identity. In this thought-provoking episode of the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast, Katie Wilber sits down with former Harlem Globetrotter, performance coach, and DG Mindset founder Derick Grant for a conversation that reaches far beyond studio ownership. Together, they explore what it truly means to grow—not just as an entrepreneur, but as a person.

From identity shifts and self-trust to pressure, purpose, and the stories we tell ourselves, Derick shares why the version of you that built your business may not be the version that will lead it into the future. This isn't a conversation about better marketing or stronger systems. It's about becoming the leader your next season requires.

If you've ever felt caught between who you've been and who you're becoming, this episode offers a powerful reminder that lasting transformation begins from the inside out. It may just change the way you think about growth—both in your studio and in yourself.

What You'll Learn * Why your identity determines your business results * How self-worth impacts long-term success * The difference between confidence and self-trust * How to recognize when you've outgrown an old version of yourself * Why growth requires letting go, not just learning more * How to overcome pressure and stop seeking outside validation * Practical questions to help uncover limiting beliefs * Why entrepreneurship is ultimately a journey of self-development * How to lead your studio from alignment instead of fear * A simple mindset practice for creating your next level of success

Derick Grant is a former Harlem Globetrotter, entrepreneur, author, performance coach, and founder of DG Mindset. Through speaking, coaching, retreats, and educational content, he helps leaders break through limiting beliefs, strengthen self-trust, and create lasting personal and professional transformation.

Explore our partners:

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Join our growing community of people just like you inside our free Facebook group. Click here to join!

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Have you built a successful dance studio... but somehow you're still doing everything?

If you're constantly answering every question, making every decision, and wondering why your studio can't function without you, this episode is the wake-up call you've been waiting for.

In this episode of the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast, led by Katie Wilber (DSOA Operations Specialist) Inner Circle mentor Sharon Uyar talks about one of the biggest leadership transformations a studio owner can make: letting go of control so your business can truly grow.

After building her New Jersey studio to more than 1,200 students and a team of 45 staff members, Sharon shares the hard-earned lessons that helped her move from exhausted studio owner to confident CEO. She opens up about burnout, micromanagement, hiring mistakes, learning to trust her team, and why the future of your business depends on developing leaders, not creating more dependence on yourself.

Whether you're leading a team of three or thirty, this conversation will challenge the way you think about leadership, delegation, hiring, and building a studio that gives you both freedom and sustainable growth.

You'll Learn: You'll Learn:

Why studio growth eventually requires a complete leadership shift
The hidden cost of trying to make every decision yourself
How micromanagement hurts both your team and your business
The mindset changes required to become the CEO instead of the manager
Why empowering leaders creates stronger staff retention
Sharon's biggest hiring lessons after years of trial and error
How to build accountability without controlling every detail
Why trust is the foundation of a thriving leadership team
Practical ways to delegate with confidence
How building the right team gives you back your time, energy, and passion for studio ownership

Do you find yourself only focusing on marketing when enrollment drops?

If so, you're not alone.

In this episode of the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast, Lisa DeMaio sits down with marketing expert and former studio owner Maureen Craig of Creative Branding Studio. After owning a dance studio for 10 years, Maureen now helps studio owners simplify their marketing, build stronger visibility, and create systems that support enrollment all year long.

Together, they unpack one of the biggest challenges facing studio owners today: staying consistent with marketing when you're already wearing a hundred different hats. From social media and email marketing to content calendars and planning systems, Maureen shares practical strategies to help studio owners stop reacting to enrollment dips and start building sustainable visibility in their communities.

If you've ever felt overwhelmed by marketing, struggled to post consistently, or wondered how successful studios seem to stay top-of-mind year-round, this episode will give you a practical roadmap for creating marketing habits that support predictable enrollment and long-term growth.

What You'll Learn:

• Why marketing should be treated like a marathon, not a sprint

• The "vitamins for your business" mindset every studio owner needs

• How consistency impacts visibility and enrollment

• The Rule of Seven and why repetition matters in marketing

• Ways to become the studio everyone recommends in your community

• Why email marketing is still one of the most valuable tools available

• How to create and use a content calendar effectively

• Strategies for building a content bank during slower seasons

• How to market your studio without feeling salesy

• Why viewing your marketing through a parent's eyes changes everything

• The connection between visibility, stability, and predictable enrollment

Check out Creative Branding Studio and the Dance Content Club at creativebrandingstudio.com

Join our growing community of people just like you inside our free Facebook group. Click here to join!

Explore our partners:

Try our Daily Decision Compass - dsoa.com/compass

Sign up for Studio Sync - dsoa.com/syncmembership

Follow The Dance Studio Owners Association:

Instagram: @dancestudioownersassociation | TikTok: @dsoaofficial | Facebook: @dancestudioownersassociation

One of the most important skills a studio owner can develop is knowing when to say no.

In this episode, Inner Circle Studio Growth Coach Elisa Finney shares how defining a clear brand mission and set of values transformed the way she runs her studio, builds partnerships, and makes business decisions.

From costumes and choreography to sponsorships and strategic partnerships, Elisa explains how a strong brand becomes a decision-making filter that helps you protect your reputation, attract the right families, and create consistency across every aspect of your business.

If you've ever struggled with setting boundaries, evaluating opportunities, or staying true to your vision, this episode will give you practical exercises and real-world examples to help you strengthen your brand and make decisions with confidence.

What You'll Learn

Why strong brands require strong boundaries
How to use your brand as a decision-making filter
What studio owners should say no to
How Elisa evaluates business partnerships
The role brand values play in programming decisions
Why consistency builds trust and credibility
How to identify brands that align with your mission
Ways strategic partnerships can elevate your studio
The exercise Elisa used to define her brand
How greater brand clarity leads to better business decisions

Alisa Finney is an Inner Circle Studio Growth Coach and the Director of the Melbourne Ballet Company in Australia. She leads both a professional touring ballet company and a thriving dance studio serving students from age two through eighty-nine. Elisa is known for her expertise in branding, strategic partnerships, leadership, and building mission-driven dance organizations that stand out in their communities.

Explore our partners

Get ahead of next season with Limelight Teamwear. Visit limelightteamwear.com to learn more

Try our Daily Decision Compass - dsoa.com/compass

Sign up for Studio Sync - dsoa.com/syncmembership

Join our growing community of people just like you inside our free Facebook group. Click here to join!

Follow The Dance Studio Owners Association:

Instagram: @dancestudioownersassociation | TikTok: @dsoaofficial | Facebook: @dancestudioownersassociation

In Part 2 of our conversation with financial strategist, entrepreneur, and bestselling author Mel Abraham, we move beyond financial strategy and into the emotional realities of entrepreneurship.

Together, Lisa and Mel explore the hidden relationship many business owners have with success, achievement, identity, self-worth, and burnout. They discuss why so many entrepreneurs tie their value to business performance, why reaching the next milestone rarely creates lasting peace, and how defining your version of "enough" may be one of the most important business decisions you'll ever make.

This conversation is a powerful reminder that building a successful studio is only part of the journey. The ultimate goal is building a life you actually enjoy living.

What You'll Learn

Why success doesn't automatically create fulfillment
How entrepreneurs become addicted to achievement
The dangers of tying your identity to your business
Why burnout should never be a badge of honor
How to align your business with your personal values
What adversity can teach you about resilience
Why defining "enough" matters for long-term happiness
How to stop living in comparison and start living intentionally
Why time is the ultimate currency
How to build a business that serves your life instead of consuming it

Mel Abraham is a CPA, entrepreneur, business advisor, and bestselling author of Building Your Money Machine. He helps entrepreneurs build businesses that generate wealth, freedom, and fulfillment while creating a life aligned with their values and purpose. Through decades of experience helping business owners grow and scale, Mel has become a trusted voice on wealth creation, financial independence, and living a fully expressed life.

Explore our partners:

Get ahead of next season with Limelight Teamwear. Visit limelightteamwear.com to learn more

Try our Daily Decision Compass - dsoa.com/compass

Sign up for Studio Sync - dsoa.com/syncmembershi

Join our growing community of people just like you inside our free Facebook group. Click here to join!

Follow The Dance Studio Owners Association:

Instagram: @dancestudioownersassociation | TikTok: @dsoaofficial | Facebook: @dancestudioownersassociation

https://gostudiopro.com/transformAre your financial decisions driven by strategy, or by a money story you've been carrying for years?

Many dance studio owners start with a passion for changing lives, but struggle to balance purpose with profitability. In this conversation led by Katie Wilber (DSOA Operations Specialist), financial strategist Mel Abraham shares how our beliefs, habits, and behaviors around money shape the way we run our businesses and why building wealth has far more to do with mindset than math. You'll learn how to break free from limiting financial beliefs, create a healthier relationship with money, and build a studio business that supports both your mission and your life.

What You'll Learn

How childhood money stories influence business decisions
Why wealth-building is primarily about behavior and habits
The truth behind the "starving artist" mindset
How to connect profit with purpose without guilt
Why owning your value is essential for growth
The difference between making money and building wealth
How wealthy people prioritize investing differently
Strategies to avoid emotional spending and instant gratification
How money can create (or reveal) tension in relationships
Why defining your version of "enough" is critical for long-term success
How to align your financial decisions with your values and life goals

Mel Abraham is a CPA, entrepreneur, financial strategist, keynote speaker, and author of Building Your Money Machine. He helps entrepreneurs and leaders remove financial constraints, build lasting wealth, and create systems that separate income from effort. Mel has worked with organizations including AbbVie, the IRS, NACVA, and the Financial Planning Association, and is one of the few speakers worldwide to earn the Certified Speaking Professional designation.

Explore our partners:

Get ahead of next season with Limelight Teamwear. Visit limelightteamwear.com to learn more.

Sign-up for a FREE 30-day Trial of Studio Pro at gostudiopro.com/transform

Join our growing community of people just like you inside our free Facebook group. Click here to join!

Follow The Dance Studio Owners Association:

Instagram: @dancestudioownersassociation | TikTok: @dsoaofficial | Facebook: @dancestudioownersassociation

Hiring teachers is one thing. Keeping great teachers long-term is something else entirely.

In this throwback episode, Annie Leese and Lauren Kelly break down the leadership, systems, and culture shifts that help dance studio owners build teams that stay invested, supported, and committed for the long haul.

Lauren shares how she transformed her mindset as a studio owner, what she learned inside the Inner Circle, and why personalized leadership matters more than ever.

What you'll learn:

How to hire based on studio mission and values
Why feedback surveys can improve hiring decisions
Creative ways to retain great staff
The importance of compensation and financial stability
How personalized leadership improves retention
Why team culture starts with the owner
What it means to lead like a CEO in the dance industry

Lauren Kelly is the owner and artistic director of Music and Motion Dance Studio. Since taking over the studio from her mother, Lauren has focused on building a culture-driven team rooted in education, leadership, and long-term sustainability.

Explore our partners:

Sign up for Studio Sync - dsoa.com/syncmembership

Try our Daily Decision Compass - dsoa.com/compass

Join our growing community of people just like you inside our free Facebook group. Click here to join!

Follow The Dance Studio Owners Association:

Instagram: @dancestudioownersassociation | TikTok: @dsoaofficial | Facebook: @dancestudioownersassociation

What makes families stay at a dance studio for years and what causes them to quietly walk away?

In this episode of the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast, relationship marketing expert Barb Betts shares why retention is built through emotional connection, authentic culture, and meaningful relationships. Guided by reflections from the DSOA's operations specialist Katie Wilber, this conversation explores the deeper human side of studio leadership and the moments that make families feel like they truly belong.

Barb unpacks how studio owners can strengthen loyalty, improve communication, build stronger relationships with teachers and parents, and create a studio culture families never want to leave. From practical retention strategies to the power of authenticity and connection, this episode will challenge studio owners to think differently about what truly drives long-term growth and referrals.

What You'll Learn: * Why retention is rooted in belonging and emotional connection * The difference between unavoidable attrition and preventable departures * Why studio owners can never fully delegate relationships * How stronger teacher relationships improve retention * Practical ways to create community outside of dance classes * Why authentic studio culture attracts the right families * The power of intentional communication and personal connection * How relationship-based leadership drives referrals and long-term growth * The "small moments" that create lasting studio loyalty * Why trying to be everything for everyone hurts retention

About Barb Betts Barb Betts is a keynote speaker, CEO, relationship strategist, and author of The Relationship Advantage. With more than 23 years of experience building businesses through trust-based relationships, Barb teaches leaders how authentic human connection drives growth, loyalty, and long-term success. Her work has been featured in outlets including ABC, KTLA, and Us Weekly.

Explore our partners:

Try our Daily Decision Compass with a Free 7-Day Trial: dsoa.com/compass

Join our growing community of people just like you inside our free Facebook group. Click here to join!

Follow The Dance Studio Owners Association:

Instagram: @dancestudioownersassociation | TikTok: @dsoaofficial | Facebook: @dancestudioownersassociation

What if your studio isn't struggling… it's just misaligned?

In this powerful episode, Jodi Shilling unpacks how authentic branding can completely transform your enrollment, culture, and confidence as a leader.

Jodi Shilling is a dance studio owner in Los Angeles and a seasoned growth coach inside the DSOA Inner Circle. Known for her bold decisions and elevated brand, Jodi has helped studio owners redefine their identity, attract aligned families, and build thriving, values-driven businesses.

This episode dives deep into what branding really means for dance studio owners and why it's often misunderstood. Jodi shares her journey from inconsistent, inauthentic branding to building a highly aligned studio that scaled from 250 to 800+ students.

From losing 70% of her clients to creating a brand that fuels connection, trust, and growth, this conversation will challenge how you think about marketing, leadership, and identity.

What You'll Learn:

Why branding is NOT about logos, colors, or aesthetics
How authenticity directly impacts enrollment growth
The role of personal brand in building trust and sales
Why repelling the wrong clients is essential
How to create emotional connection through marketing
The difference between polished vs. relatable content
How to align your team with your brand values
Practical ways to discover your personal brand

Jodi Shilling is a Studio Growth Coach with the Dance Studio Owners Association and the founder of Relevé Studios in Los Angeles. With over 17 years of experience, she helps studio owners grow revenue, impact, and freedom through aligned leadership and authentic branding.

If your studio's marketing sounds like everyone else's… this might be why.

In this episode, branding expert Bruce Turkel shares why standing out has nothing to do with what you offer and everything to do with how people experience your brand.

From understanding what today's customers actually care about to breaking free from outdated "features-based" marketing, this conversation will challenge the way you position your studio and help you connect in a way that drives real growth.

Bruce explains why function is simply the "cost of entry" in today's market and how the studios that truly thrive are the ones creating emotional connection, memorable experiences, and meaningful differentiation.

If you're tired of blending in and ready to build a brand families feel, this episode is a must-listen.

What You'll Learn

Why most dance studio marketing sounds the same
The difference between function and brand value
How emotional connection influences buying decisions
Why customer experience matters more than features
The branding lesson dance studios can learn from Tiffany & Co.
How to make your studio stand out in a crowded market
The key difference between good brands and great brands

Bruce Turkel is an internationally recognized branding expert, speaker, and author who helps businesses create more valuable and memorable brands. He has worked with major companies including Discovery Channel, Hasbro, Bacardi, and Miami, and is the author of several books on branding and customer experience, including All About Them, named one of Forbes' top business books of the year.

Join our growing community of people just like you inside our free Facebook group. Click here to join!

Follow The Dance Studio Owners Association:

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What if the next level of your studio doesn't require more effort—but a different role?

In this episode of the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast, Cara Poppitt breaks down the critical shift every growing studio owner must make: moving from managing the day-to-day… to leading with vision as a CEO.

Drawing from her own journey, Cara shares what it really takes to step out of the weeds, develop a clear direction for your studio, and build a team that can help carry it forward. Because long-term growth doesn't come from doing more—it comes from leading differently.

If you've ever felt stuck in the operations of your business or unsure how to scale without burning out, this episode will challenge you to rethink your role—and step into the leadership your studio actually needs.

What You'll Learn:

The difference between management and true leadership
Why staying in "task mode" keeps you stuck and overwhelmed
How to hire and build a team aligned with your vision
The role of culture in retention and team performance
How to stop being the bottleneck in your business
Why leadership is about people, not just systems
How to develop the skills needed to lead effectively

Cara Poppitt is a leadership expert, entrepreneur, and founder of two award-winning companies. She has helped over 10,000 entrepreneurs grow their businesses and is the author of the bestselling book Big Freakin' Change.

Join our growing community of people just like you inside our free Facebook group. Click here to join!

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Instagram: @dancestudioownersassociation | TikTok: @dsoaofficial | Facebook: @dancestudioownersassociation

In this special short episode, Lisa DeMaio, Inner Circle Program Director, shares an important update with the Dance Studio Owners Association community regarding a recent leadership change. This is a message of continuity, confidence, and forward momentum as we continue to evolve and support you.

Join our growing community of people just like you inside our free Facebook group. Click here to join!

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In this insight-packed episode, Olivia Mode-Cater sits down with Andy Seely, CEO of Creatively Disruptive, to reveal how dance studios can grow profits without piling on the stress. If you’ve ever felt trapped in the cycle of “doing it all” and still hitting a revenue ceiling, this conversation is your wake-up call. Andy shares how the most successful studio owners stop thinking like technicians and start thinking like CEOs — building teams, pricing for value, and embracing technology that keeps them ahead of the curve.

You’ll hear:

Why staying the “hub of the wheel” in your studio guarantees burnout
The pricing strategy that actually attracts more students when you charge more
How to stop chasing shiny new revenue streams and maximize what’s already working
Why “marketing” is really just “communicating with your community”
How AI tools are changing the game for lead conversion and parent communication
The single mindset shift that unlocks hundreds of thousands in revenue growth
Why you don’t need more students — you need more profit per student
How to build a team that carries your culture, values, and mission with you
What to do when it’s 3am and you feel like you’re carrying the studio alone
One bold step you can take today to transform from stressed teacher to confident CEO

If you’re ready to step off the hamster wheel and build a studio that thrives without draining you, this episode is your roadmap.

Join our growing community of people just like you inside our free Facebook group. Click here to join!

In this solo episode of the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast, host Olivia Mode-Cater reveals why most studios lose nearly half of their students every year—and how the top-performing studios break the cycle with retention strategies that actually work. Drawing lessons from gyms, preschools, and Inner Circle members, Olivia shares practical, real-world tactics that you can apply immediately to stop “leaky bucket syndrome” and grow with confidence.

Whether you’ve been stuck on the enrollment hamster wheel or scrambling to re-recruit at recital time, this episode will challenge you to rethink your retention and give you simple, doable steps to keep more students for the long haul.

What You’ll Learn:

Why focusing only on new enrollments creates “leaky bucket syndrome”
Retention secrets borrowed from gyms and fitness studios
The surprising role preschools and childcare centers can play in your retention strategy
How to use newsletters, milestone celebrations, and theme months to boost loyalty
Why your onboarding system matters more than your trial week
The “plus-one / minus-one” scorecard every parent keeps in their head
How to track retention month-to-month to spot patterns before it’s too late
Examples of Inner Circle studios crushing retention with creative ideas
Why small, doable actions matter more than grand plans
The one next step you should take today to strengthen your studio’s future

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In this insightful deep dive episode of the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast, host Olivia Mode-Cater is joined by Inner Circle mentor and powerhouse studio owner, Kelli Leighton, to unpack the strategies that keep dancers and their families coming back year after year.

From rec students to competitive teams, Kelli reveals the systems and mindset shifts that have helped her studio create a fiercely loyal community. Forget scrambling for last-minute re-enrollments, this episode shows you how to weave engagement and retention into every part of your season.

You’ll hear:

Why re-enrollment is never a one-day event (and what to do instead)
How to run an “Epic Week” that celebrates progress and builds confidence
The one-on-one goal setting strategy that keeps competitive dancers engaged
Why welcome bags aren’t just fun—they’re a retention powerhouse
How to turn your End-of-Season Bash into your biggest re-enrollment driver
The simple language shift that reframes “retention” into “engagement”
Data-driven insights to help you plan smarter and market better
Mindset shifts that make retention feel like offense, not defense

Whether you’re just starting out or scaling a multi-program studio, you’ll walk away with practical tools and fresh inspiration to keep your families committed for the long haul.

If you’re ready to transform your feed into a retention powerhouse, this episode is your invitation to take the leap.

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In this short and powerful episode of the Transform My Dance Studio In this candid and empowering episode of the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast, host Olivia Mode-Cater is joined by Inner Circle mentor Kelli Leighton for a real talk on student retention, re-enrollment strategies, and building a culture families can’t imagine leaving.

Kelli opens up about her early years as a studio owner—when she didn’t even know the word “retention”—and the wake-up call that forced her to rethink everything. From creating inclusive pathways for beginners to structuring engaging programs for teens, Kelli shares how she built a thriving studio community where every dancer feels they belong.

Whether you’re struggling to keep recreational dancers, facing parental pressure about level placements, or wondering how to engage senior students, this conversation will give you the clarity and confidence to build loyalty season after season.

What You’ll Learn In This Episode:

Why focusing on why kids stay matters more than why they leave
How to design programs that serve both recreational and competitive dancers
The secret to building belonging: “It’s brave to be a beginner”
Why letting some families go is essential for protecting your community
Practical strategies to boost re-enrollment before recital
How to handle parent expectations about leveling up each year
Engagement tips that actually work for teens (and why music & trends matter)
The role of brand identity in building loyalty and confidence
Why clear communication beats assumptions with parents every time
How retention transforms not just your business, but your culture

If you’re ready to stop the enrollment hamster wheel and finally build a studio families stay with year after year, this episode is for you.

Kelli Leighton is the owner and artistic director of Leighton Dance Project in Folsom, California. A mom of four and an Inner Circle mentor, Kelli is known for building a studio culture rooted in connection, community, and belonging. She’s passionate about creating pathways for every dancer—whether recreational or competitive—and helping studio owners strengthen retention through systems, engagement, and heart-led leadership.

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In this short and powerful 10 Minute Marketing episode of the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast, Olivia Mode-Cater drops a marketing truth bomb that could transform the way you approach your social media.

If your posts only speak to strangers, your current families will start to feel like strangers too. Olivia shares her own lessons learned about balancing recruitment with retention, and how showcasing community, student wins, and behind-the-scenes stories builds trust, belonging, and loyalty.

Through practical examples and easy-to-implement strategies, you’ll discover how to stop chasing new enrollments with every post and instead nurture the thriving community that fuels long-term growth.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

The critical 80/20 social media balance every studio owner should follow
Why “nurture content” (not constant selling) actually drives more enrollments
The difference between transactional posts and transformational storytelling
How to capture and share student wins that boost belonging and retention
The power of micro-influencers in your own community—and how to leverage them
Simple recurring post ideas (“Family Friday,” “Why We Dance Wednesday”) to build consistency and connection
Why belonging content creates ripple effects of trust, shares, and referrals
The marketing audit every studio owner needs to do on their feed—today

If you’re ready to transform your feed into a retention powerhouse, this episode is your invitation to take the leap.

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In this high-impact episode of the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast, Olivia Mode-Cater sits down with Inner Circle coach and veteran studio owner Paige Sayegh, who has mastered the art of student retention at scale. With 715 students and a thriving culture built over 31 years, Paige reveals the exact systems, touchpoints, and community-building strategies that keep families coming back year after year.

From surveys that actually get answered to the small details that make every child feel seen, Paige proves that retention isn’t luck—it’s intentional. If you’ve ever blamed drop-offs on cost or scheduling, this episode will challenge you to look deeper and rethink how you connect with students, parents, and staff.

You’ll hear:

The surprising (and subtle) reasons students really leave dance studios
Why belonging and transformation matter more than pricing or scheduling
How to design a customer journey that keeps families engaged for years
Paige’s “breadcrumb strategy” that ensures students always have a next step
Real examples of community events that build loyalty outside the studio walls
How to engage your staff so retention becomes everyone’s responsibility
The bold program shifts that stopped enrollment drop-offs in their tracks
Why today’s families crave “quick wins” and how to deliver them without sacrificing quality
Paige’s #1 bold move every studio owner should take if retention is struggling

If you’re ready to stop crossing your fingers at re-enrollment time and start building a culture of loyalty, this episode is your playbook for retention that lasts.

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Behind every great studio is a story of transformation and this podcast is here to help you write yours.

But The Transform My Dance Studio Podcast is also stepping into its own transformation.

In this new chapter, we’re thrilled to officially welcome Olivia Mode-Cater as your host.

Olivia goes beyond business tips to bring you the tools, stories, and inspiration that help studio owners not only grow their businesses, but also experience more joy, freedom, and fulfillment in their studio lives.

This is your invitation to want more, to do more, and to become more, in and out of the studio.

Join host Olivia Mode-Cater, CEO of the Dance Studio Owners Association, as she shares unfiltered conversations, expert insights, and powerful strategies to help you grow your studio without losing the magic.

Whether you’re dreaming of opening your first studio or scaling an empire, this podcast is your lifeline for leadership, clarity, and community.

Ready to transform? Tune in every Monday!

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In this powerful episode of the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast, Olivia Mode-Cater sits down with Joey Coleman, best-selling author of Never Lose an Employee Again, to unpack how dance studio owners can transform their staff retention strategy. From the shocking reality that 4% of new hires quit after just one day to the real #1 reason employees leave (hint: it’s not money), Joey shares actionable tactics to create a workplace where your team doesn’t just stay, they will thrive.

You’ll walk away with practical strategies for building connection, designing intentional onboarding, fostering culture, and reigniting passion in your employees and yourself.

In this episode you will learn:

Why the first 100 days are the most critical for employee retention.
The surprising statistics behind why people really quit — and how to prevent it.
How to connect deeply with part-time staff and make them feel valued.
The difference between orientation and true onboarding (and why it matters).
How to use the “Four Rs” framework — Role, Responsibilities, Requirements, Relationships.
The power of building friendships at work for long-term retention.
Low-cost, high-impact ways to create team bonding and culture.
Why celebrating progress is as important as tracking performance.
How to reframe leadership from “have to” into “get to.”
The concept of “spark appointments” to reignite passion for your work.

Joey Coleman is an award-winning speaker and author who has spent nearly 20 years helping organizations worldwide turn customers and employees into raving fans. Known for his engaging keynotes and actionable strategies, he’s shared the stage with top business leaders and bestselling authors. Joey is the author of the #2 Wall Street Journal bestseller Never Lose a Customer Again and Never Lose an Employee Again.

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In this revealing episode of the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast, Olivia Mode-Cater sits down with Inner Circle mentor and veteran studio owner Sharon Uyar to unpack the real reason so many hiring processes fail and what to do about it.

With 1,200 students, 45+ staff, and over two decades of experience, Sharon knows firsthand that finding great people isn’t just about posting a job ad. It’s about how you lead from day one.

Together, Olivia and Sharon react to a powerful clip from hiring expert Corey Otten and break down exactly what makes applicants say “yes” to your studio and stay for the long run. You’ll hear personal stories, practical systems, and culture-building strategies that will help you stop scrambling for staff and start building a loyal, thriving team.

Whether you’re hiring your first teacher or managing a large staff, this conversation will help you shift from a “just fill the spot” mindset to one that attracts, develops, and keeps the right people.

What You’ll Learn:

Why the biggest hiring problem might not be your applicants — it might be you
How to make candidates want to work for you as much as you want them on your team
Simple systems to streamline interview scheduling and follow-up
The onboarding process that turns hesitant hires into loyal team members
Why corporate or non-dance applicants can become some of your best hires
How to build a “pipeline” of future staff from your current students
The mindset shift that helps you let go of control and trust your team
How to prepare your hiring tools before you actually need them
The leadership traits that keep great people from leaving
Sharon’s personal onboarding story and the lesson it taught her about culture

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In this raw and revealing episode of the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast, Olivia Mode-Cater is joined by Inner Circle mentor Sharon Uyar and Inner Circle Growth Coach Annie Leese to answer your biggest hiring and retention questions.

From past hiring mistakes to evolving leadership styles, these three seasoned studio pros dig into what actually works (and what definitely doesn’t) when it comes to building a team that carries the mission with you.

Whether you're hiring your first teacher or leading a 40-person team, this episode will challenge you to think differently about culture, accountability, onboarding—and why that "perfect fit" might still need more training than you think.

You’ll hear:

How hiring based on values beats hiring based on skills
The team-damaging mistake Olivia kept repeating—and what finally stopped it
Why some of your best hires might still take a full year to onboard
How to coach high-achieving team members without burning them out
The real reason your "quietest" staff member might be your biggest red flag
Creative strategies for hiring in tough markets or rural areas
Why collaboration and communication matter more than perfection

If you’re tired of doing it all and ready to build a team that grows with you—not just works for you—this episode is your next step.

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What do vet clinics know about team building that dance studios don’t?

In this eye-opening solo episode, Olivia Mode-Cater pulls surprising (and heartwarming) lessons from the veterinary world to help studio owners build stronger, more loyal teams.

Spoiler: it's not just about pay or perks.

It's about purpose, training, and culture.

You’ll learn:

Why hiring for values (not just skills) leads to long-term team retention
How to create a 30/60/90 onboarding plan that actually prevents burnout
What cross-training really looks like (and why it builds trust and freedom)
The small, everyday rituals that turn your studio into a place people want to stay

If you’ve ever felt like your team is one unexpected job offer away from walking out, this episode will give you tangible tools to shift from turnover to loyalty.

Because just like in the vet world, your studio should be a place where people come for more than just a paycheck.

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In this powerful response to a message from an Inner Circle training with Sean Gaffney, Heather and Olivia unpack what’s really going on when your marketing feels like it’s falling flat. This episode isn’t about hacks or trends—it’s about what happens when you’re showing up online, but still not seeing results.

You’ll learn:

Why visibility without connection won’t convert
What to do when your content feels like it’s not landing
How to shift your mindset from self-promotion to service
The subtle difference between being seen and being felt

If you’ve ever asked, “Why am I doing all this and still not getting enrollments?”—this episode offers the clarity and shift you need to reframe your marketing from the inside out.

Marketing isn’t just about strategy—it’s about capacity. In this honest Q&A panel, Heather, Nadine, and Olivia talk about what’s really stopping studio owners from showing up consistently: it’s not a lack of desire, it’s the mental load of doing it all.

You’ll hear:

Why feeling overwhelmed makes it harder to market (and what to do instead)
The real reason so many studio owners procrastinate delegation
How to rebuild marketing momentum without needing more time or energy
What to prioritize when you don’t know where to start

If you’ve ever opened Instagram, stared at your to-do list, and thought, “I just can’t today”—this episode will help you find your way back into confident, consistent action.

What if everything you’ve been told about marketing is outdated? In this short solo episode, Olivia breaks down a powerful new metric that’s changing how studio owners think about enrollment: time on trust. Instead of chasing likes and followers, what if you focused on creating 47 minutes of bingeable, emotional content?

You’ll learn:

Why polished, perfect content isn’t converting
How to build “content series” that hook your audience
The 3 big marketing mistakes studio owners are still making
Simple strategies to turn your feed into a binge-worthy experience

This episode is your permission to stop performing for the algorithm and start creating content that connects. If you’re ready to rewire your studio’s marketing approach and boost enrollment faster, hit play.

In this powerful and personal episode, Olivia is joined by Cara Moeller Poppitt—Inner Circle studio growth coach, founder of two award-winning companies, top 5% podcast host, and author of the new book Big Freaking Change. Cara shares why so many dance studio owners feel stuck—and reveals the science behind why waiting until you’re “ready” is actually keeping you from the growth you deserve.

You’ll hear about her 8-step Cycle of Change model, the myth of confidence, and how to reclaim momentum in both life and business. If you’ve ever second-guessed your next move or felt like you had to do it all perfectly—this conversation will shift everything.

Ready or not… this episode will inspire you to take bold action.

Studio owners, this one’s for the do-it-all leaders running on fumes. If you’ve ever felt like the pilot, the crew, the mechanic, and the air traffic control of your business — all at once — it’s time to rethink your flight plan.

In this episode, we’re borrowing wisdom from the skies to bring you aviation-grade self-care. You’ll learn:

Why flying solo isn’t sustainable (and what it’s really costing you)
What a “co-pilot” looks like inside your studio
How to use checklists as one of the most powerful leadership tools
Why rest isn’t optional — it’s regulation

If you’re ready to lead smarter, not harder, tune in. Because the view at 35,000 feet is only worth it if you arrive in one piece.

DM us or tag us @dancestudioownersassociation to tell us:

Who your co-pilot is (or who you wish it was)?
The first checklist you're committing to build this week

Let’s build aviation-grade leadership, together.

In this episode of the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast, we’re taking you behind the scenes for a powerful Inner Circle conversation with studio owner and mentor Kelli Leighton.

Together, we explore what happens when you shift your mindset from survival mode to service-driven leadership. Inspired by executive coach Craig Burns, this episode dives into the emotional patterns, limiting beliefs, and default narratives that can hold dance studio owners back—from growth, from rest, and from the financial success they deserve.

Kelli opens up about:

How she learned to stop taking feedback personally
Letting go of the “hustle = worth” mentality
Reframing help at home as a form of support, not failure
What it really means to run a real business in the dance world
Why it’s time to stop apologizing for wanting sustainability and success

If you’ve ever felt like you're carrying the weight of your studio on your back, this episode will remind you: You’re not alone—and you’re allowed to thrive.

👉 Continue the conversation in our free Facebook group: facebook.com/groups/theDSOA

What’s really keeping studio owners up at night? In this first-of-its-kind episode, we’re handing the mic over to Inner Circle mentors Kelli Leighton and Loren Specht to tackle the raw, real, and relatable questions from studio owners just like you.

From building teams and stepping out of the classroom to shifting your mindset and revamping your curriculum—nothing’s off-limits in this unfiltered conversation. Whether you're a brand-new studio owner or a seasoned vet navigating growth, you’ll walk away with powerful insights on:

Why mindset is 80% of the work
How to stop overworking and start leading with intention
What truly drives retention in today’s dance landscape
How to serve both high and low commitment families without losing your mission

👉 Continue the conversation and get your questions answered inside our free DSOA Facebook group at facebook.com/groups/theDSOA

Are you constantly pushing, hustling, and burning out—just to prove you're doing enough? In this powerful episode, we’re breaking down the lie that your value is tied to how hard you work. Discover why mindset is truly 80% of the work when it comes to leading your studio with purpose, clarity, and confidence.

You’ll walk away with a renewed perspective on success, rest, and what it really means to show up for your studio—and yourself.

Want to keep the conversation going? Join hundreds of dance studio owners in our free community: facebook.com/groups/theDSOA

After a 5-year break, the Dance Teacher Summit is back — and bigger than ever! Chantel Feola joins us to share what’s new, what’s returning, and why this year’s event is a must for studio owners and teachers. From iconic faculty and business trainings to app-powered networking and the return of the ACE Awards, you’ll get the inside scoop on how to make the most of your trip (and bring your team or family, too!).

🎟️ Register now at DanceTeacherSummit.com and use code DSOA100 for $100 off.

Today’s studio families want more than just great classes — they want to see growth and feel the progress.

In this episode of the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast, Inner Circle Growth Coach Annie Leese reveals:

How strategic use of simple class videos can dramatically boost loyalty and re-enrollment
Easy ways to highlight student achievements without turning into a full-time content creator
How to use video to celebrate growth, strengthen parent trust, and build a studio culture students never want to leave

Crucial tips for privacy, permission, and staying legally protected when using student videos

Whether you are trying to keep more students after recital season or build a stronger studio brand, this episode will help you leverage video as one of your most powerful and underused retention tools.

Plus, join our free Facebook group for studio owners for even more templates, strategies, and real-time examples: https://www.facebook.com/groups/theDSOA

Getting students through the door is just the first step — real growth comes from keeping them excited, motivated, and emotionally connected to your studio week after week.

In this episode of the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast, Inner Circle Growth Coach Annie Leese shares:

Why loyalty and retention are built in the small, daily moments — not just big performances
5 simple, interactive tech tools you can use to boost connection without adding hours to your schedule
How gamification, feedback apps, and social media recognition can turn your classes into a highlight of your dancers’ week

Why retention — not just attraction — is the real measure of studio growth

If you’re ready to simplify your engagement systems, build loyalty faster, and stop fighting enrollment turnover every season, this one’s for you.

Plus: Want real examples, templates, and tools you can plug into your studio today? Join our free Dance Studio Owners Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/theDSOA

What starts as a simple across-the-floor jazz outline… ends up in a 2 a.m. TikTok spiral. We’ve all been there. This week on the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast, we’re breaking the cycle of burnout planning and giving you the ultimate shortcut to smarter, faster lesson design.

Join Inner Circle Studio Growth Coach, Annie Leese, as she shares:

Her real-world tech workflow for building 30 weeks of lessons in minutes
How to use ChatGPT and your studio’s core values to generate meaningful class content
Systems that help your teachers stay creative without starting from scratch every week
Why “record what you’re already doing” is your new favorite strategy

This isn’t about working harder — it’s about working smarter with the tools already at your fingertips. Want more tools like this every week? Join us inside the free DSOA Studio Owners Facebook Group: facebook/com/groups/theDSOA

Are you buried under endless admin tasks — chasing down attendance, payments, and scheduling issues — instead of focusing on what really matters in your studio?

In this episode of the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast, Inner Circle Growth Coach Annie Leese shares:

5 simple tech tools to streamline your class management, registration, and communication
How to save hours of time each week (without hiring more staff)
Practical ways to set up automations for class reminders, payments, and team communication

The truth about tech overwhelm — and why you only need one or two smart tools to see massive results

Ready to feel like a CEO again instead of your studio’s admin assistant? This episode will show you exactly where to start. Plus: Get access to real studio templates, tool kits, and daily tips inside our free Dance Studio Owners Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/theDSOA

If you’ve ever walked away from recital week with nothing but exhaustion and a camera roll full of blurry stage lights… this episode is for you.

Social media expert Jeanne-Marie Branche joins us to share the exact system she created for studio owners who want to turn recital into their biggest marketing moment of the year. No stress. No crew. No Canva meltdowns.

We dive into:

What types of recital content actually convert

How to capture emotion, transformation, and trust on camera

The secret to building a year’s worth of content in just one week

And why “done is better than perfect” when it comes to social media

Whether you're a studio content pro or feel like you're always playing catch-up online, this episode will show you how to work smarter, not harder — and grow enrollment while you’re at it.

🎧 Don’t forget to join our free Facebook group for studio owners: facebook.com/groups/theDSOA

If parents in your area are searching for dance classes online, is your studio one of the first they find? In this episode of the Transform My Dance Studio podcast, Inner Circle mentor Heather Jackson explains how studio owners can use SEO (search engine optimization) to increase their website’s visibility and attract more students—without needing a tech background. Learn simple, actionable strategies to boost your search rankings and let your website do the work for you!

Word-of-mouth marketing is one of the most effective ways to grow your dance studio—but only if you have a system in place to encourage and reward referrals. In this episode of the Transform My Dance Studio podcast, Inner Circle mentor Heather Jackson shares how to set up a referral program that practically runs itself. Discover simple, proven ways to motivate your current dance families to spread the word, leading to increased enrollment without additional marketing stress.

Marketing your dance studio doesn’t have to mean constantly creating new content. In this episode of the Transform My Dance Studio podcast, Inner Circle mentor Heather Jackson, owner of Kaleidoscope Dance, joins us to break down the power of evergreen content—marketing materials that continue to attract and engage potential students long after they’re published. Learn how to leverage this strategy to boost your studio’s visibility, build trust with your audience, and bring in new enrollments with minimal ongoing effort.

What if you could create something once and have your team use it over and over again? In this episode, Shawna Kwan explores how to build resources—like systems—that save you time in the long run. Learn the best formats, tools, and strategies for making sure your resources stay updated without you having to redo them constantly. Work smarter, not harder!

You don’t have to run your studio alone. In this episode, Shawna Kwan shares key roles you can delegate to trusted team members, from front-desk staff and admin assistants to customer service and operations managers. Learn how to find the right people, what responsibilities to give them, and how to create a system that keeps your studio running smoothly—even when you’re not there.

Marketing is essential—but it doesn’t have to take up all your time. In this episode, Shawna Kwan walks you through how to outsource social media, advertising, and content creation without losing your brand’s voice. Learn what tasks to delegate first, how to vet the right marketing professional, and the key systems that make outsourcing seamless. If you’ve been hesitant to let go of marketing, this episode will give you the confidence to take the leap!

The Transform My Dance Studio Podcast is celebrating its milestone 600th episode! This special edition takes a moment to thank its dedicated listeners who continue to find inspiration, knowledge, and practical strategies through the podcast. In this episode, Program Manager Lisa from the DSOA Inner Circle is joined by Inner Circle Growth Coaches Jodi Shilling and Sharon Uyar. Together, they share insights and proven strategies to help dance studio owners ensure their summer camps are fully booked. Tune in for expert advice and actionable tips to make the most of summer programs!

Feeling overwhelmed by admin work? A Virtual Assistant (VA) could be the game-changer your dance studio or business needs. In this episode, host Shawna Kwan, Inner Circle Community Leader and powerhouse studio owner of Elan Dance Arts, breaks down what a VA can do for you—from managing emails and scheduling to customer service and social media. She’ll also dive into how to find the right VA, what to delegate first, and how to set up a successful working relationship. If you’re ready to free up your time and focus on what you do best, this episode is for you!

In this episode, Teamwork Makes the (Recital) Dream Work, Sharon Uyar, CEO of Fusion Dance Center and Inner Circle Mentor, explores how effective team delegation can transform your recital planning process. Discover strategies to delegate tasks and projects with confidence so you can focus on enjoying the show while your team runs the event like a well-oiled machine.

In this episode, Recital Cost Savers and Money-Makers, Sharon Uyar, CEO of Fusion Dance Center and Inner Circle Mentor, shares practical tips to reduce production costs and maximize profitability. Discover smart ways to save money without compromising quality and explore new revenue streams to make your recitals a financial success.

Your yearly recital is more than a performance—it’s your #1 marketing tool. In this episode, Sharon Uyar, CEO of Fusion Dance Center and Inner Circle Mentor, dives into how prioritizing convenience and creating a high-quality recital experience can generate 5-star reviews and referrals from your dance families. Learn how to turn your recital into a powerful opportunity to grow your studio and strengthen your community.

In this episode of Mastering Recital Planning, IC Mentor Sharon Uyar is breaking down Recital 101 and how to schedule for success. Learn how to create a detailed planning timeline and streamline your workflows with tools that will help you deliver your most organized and seamless recital yet.

Enjoy Marketing Mastery in Minutes, a free training from DSOA CEO Olivia Mode-Cater, now available exclusively on our podcast! This no-replay session is packed with quick, actionable marketing tips to help your studio grow.

In the final episode of Start the Year Smarter: Workflows & Systems for Streamlined Operations, Annie Leese Thistle, Inner Circle Growth Coach and CEO of Performing Arts Academy of Marin, tackles "Effortless Inventory Management." Discover Annie’s expert tips for organizing costumes, props, and equipment to keep your studio running smoothly and stress-free.

Annie Leese Thistle, studio owner and Inner Circle Growth Coach, shares her expertise on creating smarter workflows for your studio. In this episode, "One-Click Feedback Loops," Annie breaks down how to design quick, effective surveys to gather valuable insights from students and parents in just minutes. Tune in for actionable tips to elevate your operations!

In this episode, Annie Leese Thistle, Inner Circle Growth Coach and CEO of Performing Arts Academy of Marin, dives into the essentials of mastering your metrics. Learn which numbers matter most and how to review them quickly each week to make smarter, more informed decisions for your studio. It’s all about working smarter, not harder!

In this episode, IC Growth Coach Annie Leese Thistle shares her expertise on how to "Automate to Liberate" with smart tools for scheduling, invoicing, and email marketing. Tune in to discover practical strategies to streamline your operations and take your studio to the next level!

In this bonus episode, DSOA CEO Olivia Mode-Cater is joined by powerhouse CEO Paige Sayegh and Inner Circle Growth Coach Annie Leese for an exclusive look into the top trends for dance studio owners in 2025. Happy New Year!

Join us for a special recap episode as we revisit some of the biggest highlights, insights, and inspiring moments from this year. We'll reflect on key takeaways, listener favorites, and valuable lessons learned from our amazing guests. Whether you're catching up or diving in for the first time, this episode is packed with memorable moments that made this year one to remember!

Join us for a special recap episode as we revisit some of the biggest highlights, insights, and inspiring moments from this year. We'll reflect on key takeaways, listener favorites, and valuable lessons learned from our amazing guests. Whether you're catching up or diving in for the first time, this episode is packed with memorable moments that made this year one to remember!

Join us for a special recap episode as we revisit some of the biggest highlights, insights, and inspiring moments from this year. We'll reflect on key takeaways, listener favorites, and valuable lessons learned from our amazing guests. Whether you're catching up or diving in for the first time, this episode is packed with memorable moments that made this year one to remember!

Join us for a special recap episode as we revisit some of the biggest highlights, insights, and inspiring moments from this year. We'll reflect on key takeaways, listener favorites, and valuable lessons learned from our amazing guests. Whether you're catching up or diving in for the first time, this episode is packed with memorable moments that made this year one to remember!

Let's talk SUMMER CAMPS! We’re going to learn about the top Summer Camp trends for 2025 from our Inner Circle Growth Captains Angella Manella-Hoffman and Heather Jackson!

Today’s episode is a special one! We welcome back Jodi Shilling along with DSOA Inner Circle Captain Patti Johnston for an in-depth conversation on the future of dance. Together, they’ll explore the key areas the industry should focus on and the top priorities for studio owners to remain competitive. From new innovations to cultural shifts, this is an insightful discussion you won’t want to miss!

We have a special treat for you in today’s episode! Host Jodi Shilling welcomes Loren Specht, one of DSOA’s talented Inner Circle members, to share her top strategies for setting a dance studio up for success in 2025. Whether you’re seeking fresh ideas or actionable tips, this conversation is packed with inspiration to help you tackle the year ahead.

Welcome back! In today’s episode, we’re looking forward to 2025 with Inner Circle Growth Coach Jodi Shilling. Jodi shares the trends that studio owners should watch closely, along with practical strategies to keep your studio ahead of the curve. Get ready to set your studio up for success in the coming year!

In today’s episode, Inner Circle Growth Coach Jodi Shilling joins us to share her personal journey through 2024. Together, we’ll explore the dance industry's shifts, trends, and the transformative moments she's experienced in her own studio. Jodi opens up about the year’s pivotal challenges, impactful lessons, and the growth they’ve inspired.

Today is another special day on our podcast as we welcome back Shannon along with one of the DSOA’s Inner Circle Captains, Heather Buelow, for an incredible conversation about out-of-the-box ideas that will take your recitals to the next level

We have a special episode in store for you today. Our host for this series, Shannon, has brought on one of the DSOA’s incredible Inner Circle members, Kelly Parks, for a special episode on how this studio owner has mastered recital profit!

Welcome back to part 2 of this special bonus episode, Leadership Liberation, where the DSOA shows studio owners how to TRANSFORM YOUR DANCE STUDIO INTO A SERIOUS BUSINESS...FOR GOOD!

This special bonus episode is Part 1 of our Leadership Liberation training where the DSOA shows studio owners how to TRANSFORM YOUR DANCE STUDIO INTO A SERIOUS BUSINESS...FOR GOOD!

Last week, IC Growth Coach & podcast host, Shannon Westveer, told you about her story with her first recitals. Now, in this episode, she is going to give you actionable steps on improving your recitals so that you can actually make a profit!

In this episode, Inner Circle Growth Coach Shannon Westveer is going to share a personal story about her very first recital...she’ll share what went well, what didn’t go so well, and how she learned along the way!

In this special episode, the DSOA's Executive Director Olivia Mode-Cater is going to walk you through ways to master delegation so you can put more focus on your marketing efforts, specifically!

Today is another special day on our podcast as we welcome two of the DSOA’s Inner Circle Captains, Meghan Retseck and Kim Field, for an incredible conversation about delegation discoveries and challenges!

Our host for this series, Mary, has brought on one of the DSOA’s incredible Inner Circle members, Hannah Taylor, for a special episode on how this seasoned studio owner has mastered delegation while running TWO STUDIOS!

Today's episode is all about giving you actionable steps on how you can start delegating – what you should focus on, what you should let go of, and how do you trust your employees to do the job you hired them to do?!

In this episode, IC Growth Coach Mary Giattino is going to share a personal story about her very first hire -- Who it was, what she delegated first, and tons of lessons she learned from that first hire! I know you’re going to be able to relate!

In this special episode, DSOA's Director, Olivia Mode-Cater, chats with Etienne Carreira, who is not only an incredible member of the Inner Circle, but also a leader in the Breaking world as dancer, choreographer, and teacher and his SON will be competing in those Youth Olympic for breaking in Dakar in 2026. During this convo, Etienne gives us a behind the scenes look of what it’s like to train an olympian. You’re going to love this conversation, as we talk about all things hip hop and Breaking!

Today is another special day on our podcast as we welcome one of the DSOA’s Inner Circle Captains, Erika Holmes, on with Annie for an incredible conversation about the various ways you can start working NOW on getting students in your doors for the year ahead! Erika is here to help you learn how to add a personal touch to your student attraction strategies and so much more!

We have a special episode in store for you today. Our host for this series, Annie, has brought on one of the DSOA’s incredible Inner Circle members, Robyn Todesco, for a special episode on how this seasoned studio owner improved her re-enrollment numbers time and time again. Turn those ear buds up!

In this episode, Annie is going to break down how to create and execute a specific enrollment period for your studio that sells out year after year.

Dive in to the world of retention and attraction. The special word in today's episode is retention! Retention and attraction is what leads to ultimate success for enrollment numbers. Learn first-hand from Inner Circle Growth Coach Annie Leese Thistle on how she improved her enrollment numbers!

This special episode interviews Bonita Saldana, Inner Circle member and the coach of the very first Olympics Breaking team!

In this BONUS episode from our free July training, Enrollment Explosion, Olivia gives away the tried and true systems and marketing tips used in the DSOA's Inner Circle! By implementing these tips and tricks, you will have an enrollment explosion yourself!

This episode will dive into tips and tricks straight from the field! Hear some great examples from Shannon and Shawna about how to improve your enrollment numbers all year long!

This week, Shannon will be sharing her tried-and-true tips and tricks on how to get incredible enrollment numbers at the start of your season!

Go behind the scenes as IC Studio Growth Coach Shannon Westveer shares her very personal studio owner story!

Today, you will hear from none other than the DSOA's tech guru herself, Tanya Neary! Tanya and Alisa are so excited to dive into the everchanging world of technology and AI and how you can implement little bits along the way so you become a tech guru, too!

In today's episode, Alisa and special guest, Craig Burns (DSOA's Mastery Level Executive Coach) will talk about the common fears of technology for both yourself and your team. They'll also discuss how to coach your team through change so that the transition to using more technology in day to day is smoother!

This episode will encourage you to try out new technologies, regardless of your age and previous understandings of technology and AI.

In this episode, let's learn which types of AI technologies are best for dance studio owners and how to embrace technologies every day.

Technology is changing daily and it's important that we understand what tech tools we can leverage for success as dance studio owners. In this episode, Alisa is going to share the top tech tools that she uses and loves inside her dance studio!

We have a very special episode today as we have The DSOA's Director, Olivia Mode-Cater! This episode is all about building your dream team and what types of actionable steps you can put into place now to start that journey!

For today's episode, we have a special guest. Lauren Kelly is an IC member and is here to give us great ideas, tips, and tricks for thinking about long-term retention at the beginning of the hiring process.

This episode leans into 3 best practices for hiring the right people, onboarding them for long-term retention, and building your dream team.

This next mini-series is all about hiring the right people, onboarding them for long-term retention, and building your dream team. Lean in to these amazing tips and tricks.

Do you have leaky bucket syndrome? Did all of your new students drop in their first year? This episode will give you 3 quick marketing tips to boost enrollment and keep your re-enrollnment numbers high!

Retention isn't always just focused on the student currently enrolled in classes. It's also focusing on bringing that student's siblings and other relatives into the studio. It's also focusing on how retention trickles down through generations and helps establish a true community feeling within the studio.

In this episode, we're going to hear one of our Inner Circle member's approach to year-round retention strategies and how to embed these strategies into daily practice!

In addition to your systems and processes, you need connection. When people feel connected, they will continue showing up to your classes!

It's not always about how many students you have, it's about how many classes they're taking. It's also not about reaching a certain number of students, it's understanding your profit margins to keep your business sustainable.

In case you missed the DSOA's free training this week, here's the ONLY way to listen to the replay! Get ready for all the tips and tricks on scheduling, retention, and re-enrollment!

How to effectively navigate partnerships with local community organizations, schools, and businesses while keeping your studio's mission and brand at the forefront!

In today's episode, Alisa will be talking with IC member Tanya Neary about creating a marketable brand. They are sharing so many tips & tricks on how you can get your studio recognized from anywhere in the world.

Your brand is not just what you say YES to, it's also what you say NO to. In this episode, Alisa is going to break down what she says NO to in order to stay on brand.

We are going to break down what branding actually means. It's more than just your logo and tagline. When you have a brand, you need to have a promise.

Inner Circle Captains Shawna Kwan & Kim Field surveyed our Inner Circle members and gathered the top 5 money mistakes that dance studio owners AND how to never make those mistakes again!

Amelia Fazio & Julia Hilliard from Revolution are here to empower dance studio owners as retailers!

In this episode, we are going to break down actionable steps on how to address your current financial state and how to improve and ensure profitability!

Are you ready for financial freedom? Do you have a plan for gaining your financial freedom? This episode will bring some hard truths but some exciting motivation on how to get started on your journey to profitability!

There is an art to finessing your current students all year long so that they are clammering to register for the classes they really want and then up their frequency at your studio!

This episode is Day 5 of the DSOA's most recent free training - Double Your income Challenge. This episode has two different segments filled with gold on how to become the best CEO you can be and lead your team to ultimate success!

New Students' is one of our favorite phrases! But how do you get new students in your doors throughout the entire year?

In this episode, we're going share how you can boost your revenue throughout the year so that it supplements your programs that are already delivering!

Listen along as Hillary Parnell asks Studio Owner and IC Captain Shawna Kwan some hard questions around revenue!

Welcome to 2024! We are going to jump right in to the top 3 New Year's resolutions that you need!

In this episode, we will talk about the do's and don'ts of marketing your recitals so that you have peace of mind and a sold out show!

In this episode, we're going to breakdown (1) Tiered ticketing and smart pricing (2) Add-on Sales: program ads, sponsorships and swag sales (3) Making sure all expenses are covered for rehearsals so those don't undercut the profit.

Costume protocol is a huge part of owning a dance studio. We are going to discuss how you can make costumes profitable for your studio, but also how to keep them affordable for your students and their families. We are going to go over several different options so you can consider what would work best for you and your studio!

You don’t need to make all the changes now; in this episode, learn how to work on ONE thing that is draining your capacity.

Learn how to deal with conflict at every stage in your career.

Join us with IC Captain Meghan Retseck as we talk about best practices for using your core values to inform all your decisions!

Creating core values will help you show you your path. Staying connected to your values will keep you on that path!

This episode celebrates one of our IC members, Sophie Connolly, and her growth and success!

In this episode, we're going to discuss good habits that are propelling your forward and some not-so-good habits that might be holding you back!

Recapping our best Q&A moments from this past Student Attraction Accelerator live training event!

We're going to discover what you can be doing right now to increase your leads from social media.

Let's talk about how hiring the right people and tracking progress and growth are both going to help you expand your empire.

We are going to discuss what a DOFI is, when you need to hire one, and who is an excellent candidate!

Today we are diving into why you need to consistently address and implement new systems. Based on your experiences as a dance studio owner, and as our society and world changes, your studio should reflect that growth, too!

We're talking about how to introduce a fresh and new approach to your studio! Hear how can you revamp your studio systems, culture, and dynamic for the better!

Inside the DSOA, we talk about a lot of high level tools and systems to improve your business. But that's all assuming the business is in a good place! Walk through a quick audit with this podcast episode to check your business's well-being!

Maybe you've overlooked this important detail but today we are going to dive in - onboarding for new students! Let's talk about how you can make these systems consistent and systemized so each new student feels welcomed!

Hiring efficiently is one of the most important factors in getting your free time back. When you hire the right people in the right positions, you can delegate tasks and ensure your studio will still run smoothly. In this episode, Kelli shares some specifics tips from the field!

Communication is key to being an effective leader. Start your new hires off right by learning to communicate clearly and save yourself time later.

Let's break down why writing effective job descriptions is considered marketing.

Today we are going to dive into hiring. It's a difficult topic but it's definitely the buzz this time of year as you transition through summer to your next dance season. We're going to give clear, initial steps to take when making your first, 5th, or 20th hire at your studio.

Join Olivia Mode Cater and Lisa DeMaio in a candid and insightful conversation as they dive into the dance industry and share their personal experiences. As both relative newcomers to the DSOA Dream Team, they discuss their roles, the transformative power of the inner circle, and the importance of building a supportive community. Gain valuable insights and learn how to overcome challenges, nurture your team, and maintain your passion for dance.

In this episode of the DSO Aces series, powered by the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast, host Olivia Mode Cater sits down with Stacey Hughes, a leading expert in digital marketing and the Meta Expert of Dance Studio Owners Association's Inner Circle. Stacey shares her invaluable insights on harnessing the potential of Facebook and Instagram ads to attract ideal clients, increase enrollment, and achieve financial success in the dance studio industry. Whether you're a beginner or looking to optimize your existing ad campaigns, this episode will equip you with practical strategies for leveraging social media advertising to propel your dance studio forward.

In this bonus episode, hear from DSOA Inner Circle members Patti Johnston & Heather Buelow and their journeys as dance studio owners. These are two incredible dance studio owners who have such impactful words of wisdom no matter where you are on your own personal journey as a dance studio owner!

In this bonus episode, we talk about how to get new families into your studio and how to keep them for a long time! Long-time customers turn into long-time cheerleaders of your business! This is the retention episode!

In this episode, you'll go through the 8 phases of how to get more of your personal time back and get clarity on what it takes to run a successful dance studio.

The who, the why, and the passion should all be shared in your social media marketing campaigns. In this episode, learn how to relate to your audience. Instead of just saying, "Try our preschool dance class..." try connecting with the audience more on WHY they need your dance classes.

In this episode, Olivia and David discuss common money challenges faced by dance studio owners and provide practical solutions for financial success. They explore key financial metrics, technology tools for streamlined financial management, handling seasonal ups and downs, setting competitive prices, tax-saving tips, expansion indicators, and financial predictions for the dance studio industry.

In this episode of the DSO Aces series here on the Transform My Dance Studio podcast, Annie Leese Thistle shares her invaluable expertise on hiring and firing practices in dance studios. Drawing from her own journey as a successful studio owner and her experience supporting Inner Circle members, Annie provides practical tips for attracting high-quality candidates, leveraging online job platforms, accurately reflecting the studio's culture and values, handling difficult conversations with professionalism and respect, evaluating performance, and onboarding and providing constructive feedback to teachers and staff. Tune in to stay ahead of the game with Annie's predictions for the upcoming dance studio season and empower your studio with a stellar team.

In today's episode of DSO Aces here on the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast, host Olivia Mode Cater is joined by Cara Poppitt, a renowned dancer, entrepreneur, and Inner Circle Studio Growth Coach. Cara's vast experience as a studio owner and her passion for empowering women and girls shine through as she discusses strategies to increase daytime revenue in dance studios. From exploring unique offerings to fill empty studio time to designing and marketing daytime dance sessions, Cara provides valuable insights and practical tips for studio owners looking to boost their income during daytime hours. Discover how to overcome challenges, build a great team, leverage partnerships, and stay ahead of the game in the dynamic dance studio industry.

Join host Olivia Mode Cater in an engaging conversation with Shannon Westveer, Inner Circle Studio Growth Coach, as they explore the world of remote studio ownership and progression planning. Shannon shares her inspiring journey from studio member to coach, offering valuable insights and personal anecdotes on running a dance studio remotely, overcoming challenges, maintaining high standards, fostering connections with staff and students, executing a progression plan for selling her business, and offering advice to studio owners looking to transition into new roles within the industry. Stay ahead of the game with Shannon's predictions for the upcoming dance studio season and gain the skills and strategies needed to succeed in the ever-evolving landscape.

In this episode of the DSO Aces series, Olivia Mode Cater is joined by studio owner and Inner Circle Coach, Hillary Parnell, as they delve into the art of scheduling for success in your dance studio. Hillary shares her personal journey, valuable insights, and practical tips on avoiding common scheduling mistakes, prioritizing schedule creation, attracting more students through strategic timing, managing class fill-ups and waitlists, leveraging technology for streamlined scheduling, and staying ahead of the game in the ever-evolving dance studio landscape.
Join host Olivia Mode Cater and Hillary Parnell in this conversation filled with practical tips, real-life examples, and expert guidance on scheduling for success in your dance studio.

Join host Olivia Mode-Cater in this exciting episode of the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast as she welcomes the extraordinary Jodi Shilling, renowned dance studio owner and Studio Growth Coach. Prepare to be inspired as Jodi shares her invaluable insights on how to achieve stress-free recital profits.

Discover the biggest challenges faced in maximizing recital profits and learn effective strategies to overcome them. Jodi also shares common mistakes in pricing recital tickets and how to avoid them, unlocking the potential for increased ticket sales. You'll also discover additional services and products that can enhance recital profits and leave a lasting impression on your audience.

Stay ahead of the game and listen closely as Jodi predicts upcoming trends in the dance studio industry. Discover what's in store for the upcoming season and gain the knowledge to outshine the competition.

In this episode of DSOAces, guest host Olivia Mode-Cater sit down with Inner Circle expert Julie Kay Stallcup, a renowned dance educator and co-founder of Revolution Dance Center. Julie shares her inspiring journey of creating a studio that emphasizes high-quality training and mentorship for dancers. With her expertise and experience, she provides valuable insights on building a strong faculty, fostering inclusivity, and preparing students for success. Join us as we delve into the world of dance education and discover the strategies to stay ahead of the game in the upcoming season.

We continue our captivating conversation with Alicia Graf Mack, a distinguished figure in the dance world and the Dean and Director of the Dance Division at the Juilliard School. In this episode, Alicia discusses the changing landscape of professional dance in the 21st century and how studio owners can stay relevant and innovative in their approach to training dancers. We also explores Alicia's thoughts on the future of the dance industry, the challenges dancers and studio owners may face, and the essential qualities needed for success in the field. Plus, Alicia shares highlights from her own podcast, 'Moving Moments'! Get ready for another episode filled with practical advice, visionary insights, and motivation to transform your dance studio!

Join us for part one of the momentous 500th episode of the Transform My Dance Studio podcast, where we are honored to have Alicia Graf Mack, a renowned figure in the dance world and the Dean and Director of the Dance Division at the Juilliard School, as our special guest. In this captivating interview, Olivia Mode-Cater and Lisa DeMaio delve into Alicia's experiences as a dancer with acclaimed companies and how those experiences have shaped her approach to teaching and mentoring young dancers. Discover the profound wisdom and invaluable lessons that Alicia imparts, drawing from her own extraordinary journey.

Join us on the "Transform My Dance Studio" podcast for an exclusive sneak peek into our Inner Circle Retreat, featuring the brilliant Kate Toon. In this captivating episode, we delve into the world of copywriting and uncover the secrets to leveraging persuasive language to drive studio success.

With her expertise as a renowned copywriter, Kate Toon guides us through the essential elements of conversion copy and how it can revolutionize your dance studio's results. Explore the true meaning of a sales page, discover the optimal length for sales copy, and gain invaluable insights into positioning your studio effectively.

Understanding your audience is paramount, and Kate shares proven techniques for connecting deeply with your target market through strategic copy. From sales copy formulas to crafting killer headlines, she unveils a treasure trove of practical tips and strategies that will transform the way you communicate with your audience.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn how to captivate your readers, compel them to take action, and drive conversions like never before. Join us on "Transform My Dance Studio" as we unlock the power of copywriting secrets that will propel your studio to new heights of success.

In this episode, Inner Circle Retreat keynote speaker Chris Ducker dive into the realm of virtual freedom and explore the ins and outs of finding, hiring, training, and working with virtual staff to rapidly grow your dance studio business.

As the bestselling author and founder of Virtual Staff Finder, Chris Ducker brings his expertise to the table, guiding us through the essential steps of leveraging virtual staff in the most effective way. Discover how to navigate the virtual workforce landscape, avoid common pitfalls, and embrace the multitude of benefits that virtual teams can bring to your dance studio.

From streamlining operations and boosting productivity to expanding your reach and scaling your business, Chris shares invaluable insights and practical strategies for harnessing the power of virtual staff. Learn how to effectively delegate tasks, build a cohesive remote team, and leverage technology to create seamless workflows that drive your dance studio's success.

Whether you're new to the concept of virtual staff or looking to optimize your existing remote workforce, this episode is a must-listen. Get ready to unlock the true potential of virtual freedom and take your dance studio to new heights.

Join us on the ""Transform My Dance Studio"" podcast as we dive into the exciting world of TikTok with our special guest, Keenya Kelly. In this episode, we provide an exclusive sneak peek into our Inner Circle Retreat, where we uncover the secrets of using TikTok to transform your dance studio's success.

Discover how this seemingly dance-centric platform can be leveraged to generate leads and boost sales for your business. While TikTok may initially be associated with dancing, it holds tremendous untapped potential as a powerful tool to organically reach and engage your ideal clients, absolutely free.

In this engaging discussion, we explore various strategies, practical tips, and proven techniques to help you navigate TikTok's algorithm, create compelling content, and effectively target your audience. Keenya Kelly, a renowned expert in social media marketing, unveils her insider knowledge and sheds light on the immense opportunities that await dance studio owners on TikTok.

In this episode, host Cara Poppitt shares her thoughts on the crucial role that empowered leadership plays in the success of a dance studio.

As a dance studio owner herself, Cara knows firsthand the importance of having strong leaders within her team. In this episode, she explores what it means to be an empowered leader and how these leaders can inspire and drive their team to success.

Through personal anecdotes and practical advice, Cara encourages dance studio owners to examine their own leadership styles and empower their team to take ownership of their roles within the studio. She shares her tips for creating a culture of empowerment, including setting clear expectations and providing opportunities for growth and development.

If you're a dance studio owner looking to take your leadership skills to the next level and create a culture of empowerment within your studio, then this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to discover how empowered leaders can inspire greatness and drive your studio to success.

In this episode of the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast, guest host Cara Poppitt shares her passion for getting unstuck and helps you as a dance studio owner and business leader reflect on where you might be feeling stuck in your own life. She introduces four main reasons we typically get stuck in leadership and in life, and challenges you to think about what you're waiting for and what might be holding you back from taking action, while encouraging you to tap into your courage to move forward towards your goals. Tune in for key takeaways on how to get out of the wings and step onto the stage of your life, including:

You don't always need to feel ready before you take a risk or try something new. - Courage moves you forward enough to take action and take the next step, even if you don't feel confident. - Fear of the unknown and fear of change can hold you back, but it's normal to feel scared. - Insecurities can make you feel stuck, but you can overcome them by tapping into your courage and taking action towards your goals.

Join host Cara Poppitt as she explores the importance of effective communication and connection in the dance studio industry. In this episode, Cara will share her insights and expertise on how dance studio owners can build strong relationships with their students, parents, and staff through clear communication and genuine connection.

Cara will discuss the challenges that dance studio owners face when it comes to communication and connection, and provide practical strategies and tips for overcoming them. You will learn about the importance of active listening, clear and concise messaging, and creating a culture of trust and respect in your dance studio.

Whether you are a dance studio owner looking to improve your communication skills, or seeking to build stronger relationships with your students, parents, and staff, this episode will provide valuable insights and inspiration for your journey. Tune in and discover the power of communication and connection in building a thriving dance studio.

Join host Cara Poppitt as she shares her insights and expertise on how dance studio owners can transition from management roles to become visionary leaders and CEOs of their businesses. In this episode, Cara will discuss the key differences between managing and leading, and why making the shift from one to the other is crucial for the long-term success of your dance studio.

Cara will share her personal journey of transformation from a manager to a CEO, the challenges she faced along the way, and the strategies she used to develop her leadership skills. You will hear about the importance of developing a clear vision for your dance studio, setting strategic goals, and building a strong team to help you achieve them.

Whether you are a dance studio owner looking to take your business to the next level or a manager seeking to become a more effective leader, this episode will provide valuable insights and inspiration for your journey. Tune in and learn how to make the transition from management to leadership and become the CEO your dance studio needs to thrive.

Join host Cara Poppitt in this episode of "Leading the Dance," as she dives into the essential role of leadership in the success of dance studios. With a wealth of experience in dance education and studio ownership, Cara brings valuable insights and practical strategies to help dance studio owners unlock the power of leadership. From defining the characteristics of effective leadership to exploring ways to cultivate leadership skills, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to elevate their dance studio to new heights. So, put on your dancing shoes and tune in to "Choreographing Your Success: How Leadership Can Help Your Dance Studio Thrive."

Welcome to our unmissable new series "Leading the Dance: Empowered Leadership in Dance Studios"

Throughout this series, Cara will explore the essential elements of leadership, and guide listeners on how to develop the skills and mindset needed to become an effective leader in your dance studio. Whether you're leading a team at work or simply looking to improve your personal leadership skills, join Cara as she takes you on a journey through the world of leadership, and discover what it takes to connect and collaborate to lead. Guest host Cara Poppitt is not only one of the DSOA's industry leading coaches inside the dance studio owners Inner Circle, she is also the Founder and Artistic Director of Soul Connexion in Calgary, and the founder and CEO of the Studio Fine Arts Club.

Get ready to be inspired! Meet Cara Poppitt, studio growth coach for Dance Studio Owners Association's Inner Circle Program. With her extensive experience in owning and managing two award-winning companies, Cara is passionate about helping dance studio owners take action and achieve real results.

In this session, Cara will unlock the secrets to leadership and confidence, empowering you to step up into the role of CEO of your dance studio. From the differences between management and leadership to how to develop a confident mindset, this episode covers everything you need to know to become the best leader you can be.

Here are some of the topics Cara covers this week:

What is the difference between management and leadership in your dance studio?
How to shift your mindset to become a confident leader
The importance of connecting with your values and your team
Why studio owners fail to take action and how to get unstuck
How to identify your strengths and how to enhance them

She also shares actionable tips to help you get started and take action today! Don't miss this valuable episode and start becoming the leader your studio deserves.

In this bonus episode, we interview three successful dance studio owners who are members of the Inner Circle. Join us as we explore their unique journeys, strategies, and insights into growing and managing a dance studio business.

First up, we have Mikayla Buss, the owner of Tarantism Dance in Manitoba, Canada, who shares her experience of organizing a recital planning retreat. Learn about her goals, strategies, and the impact it had on her studio's performance and morale. She also offers tips on aligning your team with your studio's vision and motivating them to achieve your goals.

Next, we speak with Julie McFarland, the owner of Academy of Dance Arts in South Dakota, who talks about her journey of managing and growing her business in the last five years. Discover the transformation she has experienced and the impact it has had on her personal life. She also shares her tips on transitioning from an artistic mindset to a CEO mindset, overcoming obstacles, and surprises she has encountered along the way.

Lastly, we have Apra Bhandari, the owner of ADAA Dance in California, who shares her story of rapid growth from 122 to over 400 enrolled students. Listen as she shares her top three strategies for achieving growth, overcoming challenges in running a niche dance studio, and maintaining quality while expanding. She also discusses how she balances growth with maintaining a strong culture and community.

Tune in for this exciting episode and learn from these inspiring dance studio owners who have achieved success in their businesses. Doors to the Inner Circle are now open! Find out more at dsoa.com/apply

We're super excited for today's BONUS Dance Studio Owners Summit episode where we'll be discussing enrollment secrets with three amazing panelists: Dodie Hunter-Eskew, Bonita Saldana, and Donna Jacobs.

Dodie, who owns the Rising Star Tumbling and Dance Studio in Wyoming, USA, is going to spill the beans on how she registered over 300 new students in 2022. She'll also be sharing the systems that helped her accommodate her rapid growth.

Bonita, the owner of The Studance Lab in Arizona, USA, has some serious credentials. She was the first-ever head coach for the USA breakdancing team! She'll be talking about some of the systems she and her husband have implemented to keep their studio thriving while pursuing other projects. Plus, she'll share some tips on how to prepare for the surge in interest in breakdancing.

Donna, the Director of the Morton Street Dance Center in Maryland, USA, is another superstar in the dance world. She enrolled 100 new dancers in her studio last year and she'll be revealing her biggest game-changer for student attraction and enrollment, as well as her top two or three retention strategies.

If you're looking to boost your enrollments this season and prepare for success next season, then this is the episode for you! Sit back, relax, and let's dive into the secrets of successful dance studio enrollments!

Are you ready to boost retention and build brand loyalty at your dance studio? In our latest BONUS Dance Studio Summit episode, special guest Jodi Shilling is diving into the 4 types of customer engagement that every studio owner should know. She's also giving you you practical tips and real-life examples to help you create meaningful connections with your customers.

In this Summit Special, you'll:

Learn what community engagement is and why it's important for your business
Discover the 4 key types of customer engagement and how to implement them
Get tips on how to stand out from the noise and create authentic connections with your customers

Tune in now to learn how to take action and engage your community! It's not too lae to join the Dance Studio Owners Summit online this week. Register at dsoa.com/summit to enjoy 3 days packed with Dance Studio growth resources from our world-class speakers!

As a dance studio owner, you know that your brand is essential to your success. But how do you make your brand stand out in a crowded market? Join us for an exclusive interview with branding guru Bruce Turkel. With years of experience working with top companies like Nike and Discovery Channel, Bruce knows the secrets to creating a powerful brand that resonates with customers. In this episode, you'll learn how to uncover the motivations of today's consumer, the difference between features and benefits, and how to leverage content and context to multiply your sales. Plus, discover why the traditional "Speeds & Feeds" sales strategy doesn't work anymore and how to develop a new approach that sets your studio apart.

In this episode, Susie shares what she learned about owning your truth, launching a business, the power of loss, and the freedom that questioning fear brings.

"Charles Darwin said, it's not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent that survives. It's the one that's most adaptable to change." Rick Goodman is a leadership engagement and business growth expert. He is passionate about helping leaders become successful and efficient in their businesses. In this exclusive Inner Circle retreat sneak-peek, Rick Goodman shares his top 3 keys to success as a leader, inlculuding: 1. The Power of Adaptability and the Solutions-Oriented Leader 2. Ubuntu: We're Only As Strong As Each Member Of The Team 3. Three Keys To Selling To Dance-Moms ✨ Register today for our FREE 3-Day Dance Studio Owners Summit at dsoa.com/summit

Have you started planning for Summer Camps in your studio yet? In the Dance Studio Owners Inner Circle, our members have been prepping, planning, scheduling and of course, shopping in preparation for their most profitable Summer Camps yet.

To help you get in the best position to sell out your camps the stress-free way, we're delighted to share this week's special episode where Clint Salter and Olivia Mode Cater join Lisa DeMaio to share our Top 10 Tips for Summer Success in 2023.

Not only are we sharing the hottest tips from leading studios all over the world, but we have also created a completely free Sold Out Summer Camp system that you can download today, and implement in your studio for the ultimate Summer Success. Head to dsoa.com/summercamp to download your free copy.

Joey Gonzalez is the Global CEO of Barry’s, the original cardio and strength interval workout that revolutionized fitness and began the boutique movement.

His Barry’s journey started in 2003, and he became CEO in 2015. Since then, Gonzalez has dedicated his life to expanding the brand across the country and around the world, fostering diverse communities across 4 continents. In this Q&A special, Joey shares a behind-the-scenes insight into the growth of Barry’s which now welcomes 150,000 people globally through its doors each week.

In this episode, Heather and Patti discuss how dance studio owners can stand out in their community and use their brand to get people through their doors. They also share their favorite strategies for becoming known in the community, and how to make a positive impact on the community by participating in wellness challenges, hosting drop-off parties for parents, and donating their studio space.

In this episode, Heather and Patti share: 1. How to become the go-to studio in your community by elevating your brand 2. Creative ways to use your studio to benefit your community and attract new customers. 3. Strategies for increasing brand awareness and establishing yourself as a leader in the industry.

In this week's episode of CEO Coffee Chat, business besties Heather and Patti discuss the importance of self-love. Our caffeine-fuelled duo dive deep into the need for studio owners to focus on themselves and prioritize their own needs in order to be successful. They also share their own experiences on the importance of taking time for rest and reflection, as well as leaning on others for help, and setting realistic goals for both our business and our personal lives.

PLUS the importance of recognizing that we are more than our business, and that taking time to focus on other relationships and our own personal goals is key.

""We all do it for different reasons, but you need to be aware of what your version of success is in this moment, so that when you hit it, you can recognize it.""

In this episode, you will learn: 1. How do studio owners find the balance between nurturing their business and nurturing their relationships? 2. What is the secret to a successful life for the entrepreneurial spirit? 3. How can studio owners make the most of their goals and plans to reduce stress?

🤔 What will your business and life look like three years from now? In 2026, how many students will you have? How much revenue will you be generating? What will your profit margins look like? How much paid vacation will you be taking? Join Clint for this bonus episode, where he will show you that by using our proven roadmap to futureproof you studio, you'll be on track to your achieving your ideal business goals (and your ideal life goals!) in 2026.

In this BONUS episode, Clint is joined by Inner Circle member Shawna Kwan who shares her journey in facing the fear of failure to ultimately achieve a million dollar business. "Anything is possible, right? And the thing about it is, once you commit to it and invest in yourself and you're paying money, it's like lighting a fire beneath you." In this episode, Clint and Shawna share: 1. The strategies Shawna implemented to increase her dance studio revenue by more than $250,000 in 2021 2. Tips that dance studio owners can use to create their customer journey for potential students 3. The key systems and processes you need in your dance studio to create freedom in your business and your life 👉 Doors to the Dance Studio Owners Inner Circle are now open - but only until Friday Febraury 3! Apply for this life-changing coaching and support now at dsoa.com/apply

In this exclusive excerpt from the Dance Studio Marketing Playbook, Clint Salter challenges dance studio owners to put their own creative copywriting skills to work to create captivating headlines, fascinate with stories, and build experiences that make people "stop the scroll" in order to attract new students and achieve their 2023 goals. In this podcast special, you will discover: 1. How to create headlines that make people stop scrolling 2. The difference between features and benefits when creating your marketing hook 3. The potential global impact that you can you make by committing to your 2023 dance studio goals Resources: Apply to join the Dance Studio Owners Inner Circle today at dsoa.com/apply

📣 In 2023, Dance Studio Owners must learn how to stand out from the competition through their marketing and offers to avoid attracting the wrong customers. 👉 In this Studio Marketing Playbook excerpt with host, Clint Salter, you will learn how to craft winning marketing strategies to drive business growth and success! You NEED to be marketing 365 days a year to generate new student inquiries and enrollments, and this bonus episode will show you how! In this episode, you will learn: 1. How can you generate an additional $96,000 in revenue for your dance studio in 12 months? 2. What are the key qualities to look for when targeting an ideal customer for your dance studio? 3. What are the best strategies to market your studio 365 days of the year? And SO much more! ✨ For ongoing coaching, training and support in building the dance studio of your dreams (without working 24/7) now is the time to apply to join the Dance Studio Owners Inner Circle - dsoa.com/apply

Learn the secrets to retaining your admin staff and minimizing turnover with guest hosts, Heather and Patti!

In this episode, you will discover: 1. What do you need to know to successfully hire and retain an admin support staff in a dance studio? 2. How can creative studio owners be better organized to support their admin staff? 3. What strategies can be employed to make the admin staff role less stressful and more enjoyable?

"Never stop learning, right?""

Learn how to unlock the potential of your teaching career and discover the secrets of leading teachers to success!

In this episode, guest hosts Heather and Patti share the importance of recognizing different age groups and approaches when it comes to leading teachers to success, including:

How to effectively lead and foster success in teachers of different age groups within your studio. 2. What strategies can be used to engage young, eager teachers and help them reach their potential? 3. How to recognize and maximize the unique strengths of senior teachers in order to develop a successful and well-rounded team.

"You need to invest in getting to know who they are as people and what lights their soul on fire. For me, that happens in the interview process."

Over 6 value-packed weeks, you’re invited to join us every Monday for our ‘CEO Coffee Chat' series featuring guest hosts and Inner Circle members, Heather Buelow and Patti Johnston! Join this dynamic duo for some real-talk over coffee each week, and share an inside-look into their world as successful dance studio owners, and DSOA studio growth captains. Heather and Patti will be sharing a deep insight into the important people in and around your business, and sharing the innovative strategies that they have implemented over the years to be among our industry's most inspiring leaders.

Over 6 value-packed weeks, you’re invited to join us every Monday for our ‘CEO Coffee Chat' series featuring guest hosts and Inner Circle members, Heather Buelow and Patti Johnston! Join this dynamic duo for some real-talk over coffee each week, and share an inside-look into their world as successful dance studio owners, and DSOA studio growth captains. Heather and Patti will be sharing a deep insight into the important people in and around your business, and sharing the innovative strategies that they have implemented over the years to be among our industry's most inspiring leaders.

Reimagining Your Studio Environment in a Challenging World with Heather Younger Do you feel like the dynamic in your team has changed as the result of a tulmultuous few years in business? Is your head spinning trying to define paths forward for your studio and employees in a world where change is happening at a faster pace than ever before?

In this empowering, interactive, and hope-filled episode, keynote speaker and adversity expert Heather R. Younger will inspire you to reimagine the workplace and offer a high-level roadmap for succeeding with more ease.

This session is all about how to strategically buy back your time to unlock painless growth and to scale a business you don’t grow to hate one day.

You don’t have time to do everything; only time to do what matters! As professionals and leaders, we wear many hats and it is easy to be constantly distracted, overwhelmed and not achieving the results we want and need to grow our business.

If we develop systems to increase our productivity and streamline our businesses we can focus on growing our sales and teams. This exclusive Inner Circle retreat sneak-peek is perfect for leaders who want more control so they can manage their time, focus their attention and manage their energy.

It's the FINAL week of our 'Work Less, Make More' series with the incredible Annie Leese Thistle, and in this week's podcast Annie shares the impact that working less has had on her life, both at the studio and outside of it in her personal life. In this heartfelt and value-packed episode, Annie shares:

Her tips for building relationships with colleges and why this has been a game-changer for buying back her time
Practical strategies for telling your unique story, and using it to attract the right people into your world who truly "get" it
The importance of listening to the whispers in your life

Annie believes wholeheartedly that you are worth the investment in yourself and your business, and this episode is guaranteed to motivate you into finally prioritizing your own needs and goals. "The sweet payoff comes with time, and in waves." About the Work Less, Make More podcast series, with guest host Annie Leese Thistle. For the next 6 weeks, we couldn't be more excited to be introducing a brand new host here on the podcast. Annie Leese Thistle is an extraordinary Studio Owner and Inner Circle member who will be leading from behind the microphone for a 6-part podcast series, ‘Work Less, Make More”

Annie is the CEO and Artistic Director of Performing Arts Academy of Marin - also known as PAAM - in Mill Valley, California. Annie established PAAM in the summer of 2009, facilitating its growth with the help of dedicated faculty and staff from humble beginnings in a church hall to a thriving community with state-of-the-art facilities and premier training in dance and the performing arts.

In this limited series, Annie will be your guide to achieving more freedom and balance in your studio life as she walks you through her 6 Secrets to a Profitable 20 Hour Work Week.

This week we are going to talk about the 4 key people you need to assemble as you build your Rally Team for 2023 and beyond!

Throughout our journey's as Dance Studio Owners, we need people by our sides who can support us, love us, and be our biggest cheerleaders . So how do we find those crucial and amazing friends and confidants that really keep the wheels turning in our lives, and bring us happiness and joy in this journey so that we don't feel quite so alone?

Over the next 30 minutes, Annie Leese Thistle shares;

Why it's so important to surround yourself by people that mirror, support and uplift you
Where to find people who are like-minded in motivating themselves, and wanting the best not only for themselves, but for you as well
The mentors and communities that have supported her in various way throughout her business journey
How she discovered that it had to be HER decision to be inspired and move forward in order to achieve her version of success

Sometimes, being a dance studio owner can feel like an island, and Annie knows first-hand how critical your Rally Team is to your success and longevity in business.

"You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with." Jim Rohn

About the Work Less, Make More podcast series, with Annie Leese Thistle For the next 6 weeks, we couldn't be more excited to be introducing a brand new host here on the podcast. Annie Leese Thistle is an extraordinary Studio Owner and Inner Circle member who will be leading from behind the microphone for a 6-part podcast series, ‘Work Less, Make More”

Annie is the CEO and Artistic Director of Performing Arts Academy of Marin - also known as PAAM - in Mill Valley, California. Annie established PAAM in the summer of 2009, facilitating its growth with the help of dedicated faculty and staff from humble beginnings in a church hall to a thriving community with state-of-the-art facilities and premier training in dance and the performing arts.

In this limited series, Annie will be your guide to achieving more freedom and balance in your studio life as she walks you through her 6 Secrets to a Profitable 20 Hour Work Week.

For the next 6 weeks, we couldn't be more excited to be introducing a brand new host here on the podcast. Annie Leese Thistle is an extraordinary Studio Owner and Inner Circle member who will be leading from behind the microphone for a 6-part podcast series, ‘Work Less, Make More”

Annie is the CEO and Artistic Director of Performing Arts Academy of Marin - also known as PAAM - in Mill Valley, California. Annie established PAAM in the summer of 2009, facilitating its growth with the help of dedicated faculty and staff from humble beginnings in a church hall to a thriving community with state-of-the-art facilities and premier training in dance and the performing arts.

In this limited series, Annie will be your guide to achieving more freedom and balance in your studio life as she walks you through her 6 Secrets to a Profitable 20 Hour Work Week.

For the next 6 weeks, we couldn't be more excited to be introducing a brand new host here on the podcast. Annie Leese Thistle is an extraordinary Studio Owner and Inner Circle member who will be leading from behind the microphone for a 6-part podcast series, ‘Work Less, Make More”

Annie is the CEO and Artistic Director of Performing Arts Academy of Marin - also known as PAAM - in Mill Valley, California. Annie established PAAM in the summer of 2009, facilitating its growth with the help of dedicated faculty and staff from humble beginnings in a church hall to a thriving community with state-of-the-art facilities and premier training in dance and the performing arts.

In this limited series, Annie will be your guide to achieving more freedom and balance in your studio life as she walks you through her 6 Secrets to a Profitable 20 Hour Work Week.

"Freedom" is a word that Dance Studio Owner, Annie Leese Thistle can get behind - and we know its one you can get behind too!

This week's episode is all about the 4 key ways that Annie has achieved more freedom and balance in her studio and life as she strives towards the 20 hour work week that enables her to Work Less, Make More.

This week, Annie walks you through:

Why you need to create clear job descriptions for your team.
Empowering your team to be thinkers and come up with new ideas.
Planning for your team’s productivity as well as your own.
Discovering what are your "loss leaders".

Annie also shares her tips for laying out your days and weeks for maximum producitivity and freedom, AND the #1 financial tip she lives by (and wants you to live by too!)

We hope you enjoy this week's episode of Work Less, Make More with Annie Leese Thistle, powered by the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast.

About your Host, Annie Leese Thistle!

For the next 6 weeks, we couldn't be more excited to be introducing a brand new host here on the podcast. Annie Leese Thistle is an extraordinary Studio Owner and Inner Circle member who will be leading from behind the microphone for a 6-part podcast series, ‘Work Less, Make More”

Annie is the CEO and Artistic Director of Performing Arts Academy of Marin - also known as PAAM - in Mill Valley, California.

Annie established PAAM in the summer of 2009, facilitating its growth with the help of dedicated faculty and staff from humble beginnings in a church hall to a thriving community with state-of-the-art facilities and premier training in dance and the performing arts.

In this limited series, Annie will be your guide to achieving more freedom and balance in your studio life as she walks you through her 6 Secrets to a Profitable 20 Hour Work Week.

What are the things that are currently holding you back from reaching your full potential?

If you are a studio owner who wants change; if you want more, if you want better than your average; you need to change some things in order to get different results.

And that is exactly what this week's episode of "Work Less, Make More"on the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast with guest host, Annie Leese Thistle.

In this episode, you'll unlock:

How to define what you really want in life so that you can be empowered to go after it
Practical strategies for taking inventory of your current work week
Tasks can you offload right now, and those you can look forward to offloading in the near future
The importance of having clear training processes and systems in place

You'll also discover the value in taking a step back to re-evaluate your business regularly, and how to do it well. "You have to start with YOU in order to fix anything in your business or quality of life."

For the next 6 weeks, we couldn't be more excited to be introducing a brand new host here on the podcast. Annie Leese Thistle is an extraordinary Studio Owner and Inner Circle member who will be leading from behind the microphone for a 6-part podcast series, ‘Work Less, Make More”

Annie is the CEO and Artistic Director of Performing Arts Academy of Marin - also known as PAAM - in Mill Valley, California.

Annie established PAAM in the summer of 2009, facilitating its growth with the help of dedicated faculty and staff from humble beginnings in a church hall to a thriving community with state-of-the-art facilities and premier training in dance and the performing arts.

In this limited series, Annie will be your guide to achieving more freedom and balance in your studio life as she walks you through her 6 Secrets to a Profitable 20 Hour Work Week.

In this six part podcast series 'Work Less, Make More', workaholic studio owner Annie Lesse Thistle discovers her true values and transforms her life to achieve a balance of work, family, and self that she never thought possible.

During this podcast mini-series, Annie will be your guide to achieving more freedom and balance in your studio life as she walks you through her six secrets to achieving the highly profitable 20 hour work week.

In this series premiere, you'll discover:
1. How Annie Leese Thistle went from working 72 hours a week to a 20 hour work week
2. What it was like for Annie during the pandemic and how it changed her perspective
3. How to identify and let go of things in your life that are holding you back

And SO much more.

"Everything you want is on the other side of fear."

About Your Host: Annie Leese Thistle is an extraordinary studio owner and Inner Circle member who will be leading a six-part series on working less and making more.

Annie is the CEO and artistic director of Performing Arts Academy of Marin (PAM) in Mill Valley, California. She established Pam in 2009 and has grown it from humble beginnings in a church hall to a thriving community with state-of-the-art facilities and premier training in dance and the performing arts.

Candace Nelson, founder of Sprinkles Cupcakes, shares her insights on entrepreneurship, failure, and team building, providing the jolt of creativity and clarity dance studio owners need to take their studio to the next level.

If you want to learn how to be a successful studio CEO, take some lessons from Candace Nelson's successes and failures with her businesses.

Candace Nelson is the founder of Sprinkles Cupcakes, the world's first cupcake bakery. She is also a judge on the competition series Cupcake Wars and Sugar Rush.

This is Candace Nelson's story...

Candace Nelson is a successful entrepreneur and business owner who has built several businesses from the ground up. One of the things she is most proud of is her ability to maintain a beginner's mindset throughout her journey. This quality has allowed her to continue learning and growing, even as the landscape around her has changed. She is also a strong advocate for normalizing failure and believes that it is through failure that we learn the most valuable lessons.

In this episode, you'll discover:

How Candace consistently comes up with innovative new concepts and ideas (even knowing that some of them won't be successful)
What qualities Candace possesses as an entrepreneur that has fueled her continued success
What Candace has learned about team building, mentoring, and retaining great staff during her journey as a business owner

And SO much more!

We hope you enjoy this exclusive interview, and unlock the confidence, courage & motivation you need to be a successful studio CEO.

Candace Nelson, founder of Sprinkles Cupcakes, shares her insights on entrepreneurship, failure, and team building, providing the jolt of creativity and clarity dance studio owners need to take their studio to the next level.

If you want to learn how to be a successful studio CEO, take some lessons from Candace Nelson's successes and failures with her businesses.

Candace Nelson is the founder of Sprinkles Cupcakes, the world's first cupcake bakery. She is also a judge on the competition series Cupcake Wars and Sugar Rush.

This is Candace Nelson's story...

Candace Nelson is a successful entrepreneur and business owner who has built several businesses from the ground up. One of the things she is most proud of is her ability to maintain a beginner's mindset throughout her journey. This quality has allowed her to continue learning and growing, even as the landscape around her has changed. She is also a strong advocate for normalizing failure and believes that it is through failure that we learn the most valuable lessons.

In this episode, you'll discover:

How Candace consistently comes up with innovative new concepts and ideas (even knowing that some of them won't be successful)
What qualities Candace possesses as an entrepreneur that has fueled her continued success
What Candace has learned about team building, mentoring, and retaining great staff during her journey as a business owner

And SO much more!

We hope you enjoy this exclusive interview, and unlock the confidence, courage & motivation you need to be a successful studio CEO.

Last month, Clint Salter hosted a live interview to celebrate the launch of Candace Nelson’s new book ‘Sweet Success’, and the insights shared during their hour together was so valuable that we simply had to bring it to you here on the podcast!

Over this 2-part mini series, you’ll learn how Sprinkles founder, Candace Nelson turned her passion into a profitable business, one cupcake at a time while getting the jolt of creativity and clarity you need to take your studio to the next level.

We hope you enjoy this exclusive interview, and unlock the confidence, courage & motivation you need to be a successful studio CEO.

Last month, Clint Salter hosted a live interview to celebrate the launch of Candace Nelson’s new book ‘Sweet Success’, and the insights shared during their hour together was so valuable that we simply had to bring it to you here on the podcast!

Over this 2-part mini series, you’ll learn how Sprinkles founder, Candace Nelson turned her passion into a profitable business, one cupcake at a time while getting the jolt of creativity and clarity you need to take your studio to the next level.

We hope you enjoy this exclusive interview, and unlock the confidence, courage & motivation you need to be a successful studio CEO.

In the Inner Circle, we believe that studio ownership doesn’t need to be stressful for you to be successful.

In this special interview, our guests will show you how to stop running around putting out fires in your business, and return to the passionate, confident leader you were when you first started out - with a lot more cash in the bank and way more time to spend doing the things you love.

In the Inner Circle, we believe that studio ownership doesn’t need to be stressful for you to be successful.

In this special interview, our guests will show you how to stop running around putting out fires in your business, and return to the passionate, confident leader you were when you first started out - with a lot more cash in the bank and way more time to spend doing the things you love.

In the grand finale of the Studio Empire Formula, Hillary Parnell shares the 12 biggest business and life lessons she has learned as a 7-figure dance studio CEO (and wishes she had learned sooner!)

In the grand finale of the Studio Empire Formula, Hillary Parnell shares the 12 biggest business and life lessons she has learned as a 7-figure dance studio CEO (and wishes she had learned sooner!)

In the first episode of the Studio Empire Formula series, guest host Hillary Parnell talked a lot about overwhelm - and today she's back behind the mic to talk about the ugly cousin of overwhelm.

No matter how much you love your job, no matter how efficient and productive you tend to be by nature, everyone has done this at least once.

Can you guess what it is?

Of course, We’re talking about procrastination!

Pretty much everyone else can admit they procrastinate sometimes and it stalls out their work and keeps them from getting that list finally complete - and in this episode Hillary is not only going to walk you through the WHY of procrastination, but also how to make it work FOR you and not against you.

In the first episode of the Studio Empire Formula series, guest host Hillary Parnell talked a lot about overwhelm - and today she's back behind the mic to talk about the ugly cousin of overwhelm.

No matter how much you love your job, no matter how efficient and productive you tend to be by nature, everyone has done this at least once.

Can you guess what it is?

Of course, We’re talking about procrastination!

Pretty much everyone else can admit they procrastinate sometimes and it stalls out their work and keeps them from getting that list finally complete - and in this episode Hillary is not only going to walk you through the WHY of procrastination, but also how to make it work FOR you and not against you.

We’re taking a dive deep into some topics that might be a little taboo this week! Some things that you might not quite understand right away, or might feel immediately opposed to. But my hope is that I can change your mind. I hope you can see another point of view and then eventually, change your opinion on these subjects.

Here are my big bold statements for the day-

#1- Competition is beneficial to your business in EVERY way. (studio competition, not comp for your dancers.

#2- Negative Reviews are one of the BEST things that can happen to your business.

#3- EVERY customer issue is an opportunity to be awesome.

Do you think people should get paid for doing a job? Do you think people should get paid less for doing a poor job? What about people who do an exceptional job?

The obvious answer is yes, to all of the above. But the reality is, lots of people do a job without getting paid. Probably some of you don’t pay yourself. Or sometimes people get hired for one job and end up doing another or a bigger job and not getting paid more or any differently. What about the people who barely do their job, or aren't’ keeping up with everyone else and dragging down the team?

Just like the last episode, if you don’t have a team yet, no problem. Stick with us and learn a few lessons so you don’t make the same mistakes everyone else does when they first start hiring people.

This episode of The Empire Formula series could also be called "Tough Love, With Hillary Parnell", as our host dives into how you might be getting in your own way of success - and it all comes down to leaderhsip.

Over the next 30 minutes, Hillary takes a deep dive into:

Why your desire to be in control of everything is hurting your business
What will happen when you decide to stop putting out fires in your studio
How to get better at delegating
The best ways to hire an incentivize the best people for the job
The biggest limiting belief that could be holding you back from ever reaching your potential

And so much more!

Over the next six weeks we are thrilled to be welcoming the one and only Hillary Parnell as our guest host for a brand new series: The Empire Formula!

Hillary Parnell is one of the Studio Growth Coaches inside the Inner Circle, the owner of Academy For The Performing Arts in North Carolina, and the owner and founder of Dance Photo Pro! This very special series will give you an inside-look into how Hillary has grown her dance studio into an Empire as she shares her strategies that will help you unleash your inner CEO.

In this season Hillary will be diving into: measuring and managing your success; limiting beliefs and grand gestures; letting go of the day-to-day; debunking delegation myths, and so much more!

Over the next six weeks we are thrilled to be welcoming the one and only Hillary Parnell as our guest host for a brand new series: The Empire Formula!

Hillary is one of the Studio Growth Coaches inside the Inner Circle, the owner of Academy For The Performing Arts in North Carolina, and the owner and founder of Dance Photo Pro! This very special series will give you an inside-look into how Hillary has grown her dance studio into an Empire as she shares her strategies that will help you unleash your inner CEO..
In this season Hillary will be diving into: measuring and managing your success; limiting beliefs and grand gestures; letting go of the day-to-day; debunking delegation myths, and so much more!

Over the next six weeks we are thrilled to be welcoming the one and only Hillary Parnell as our guest host for a brand new series: The Empire Formula!

Hillary is one of the Studio Growth Coaches inside the Inner Circle, the owner of Academy For The Performing Arts in North Carolina, and the owner and founder of Dance Photo Pro! This very special series will give you an inside-look into how Hillary has grown her dance studio into an Empire as she shares her strategies that will help you unleash your inner CEO..
In this season Hillary will be diving into: measuring and managing your success; limiting beliefs and grand gestures; letting go of the day-to-day; debunking delegation myths, and so much more!

In the final episode of this thought-provoking 3-part series, Phil M Jones shares his 5-step sales process that you can plug and play into your studio to see drastic increases in your new student enrollments.

Often, the fear of being a salesperson means that you stand in the way of success and this week Phil is sharing his magical words that will help you avoid losing those important sales.

Enjoy the ride as you discover the power that language has over the subconscious brain, and gain practical examples that you can apply instantly as you learn how the “Magic Words” from Phil’s best-selling book, EXACTLY What To Say, are applied to your dance studio.

"One of the most underrated skills when it comes to influencing people to take action, is to truly LISTEN to them." - Phil M Jones.

This thought-provoking 3-part series will have you enthralled as you learn how the “Magic Words” from Phil’s best-selling book, EXACTLY What To Say, are applied to your specific business-critical situations.

This mini-series delivers immediate actionable outcomes, where you can expect to be keen to work on your new word choices and bring record numbers of new students through your studio doors!

Over the next 3 weeks, you’ll have your own front row ticket into our Inner Circle retreats, where we are sharing with you some of the best moments from one of our world-class speakers, Phil M. Jones.

In Part One of this limited series, you'll discover the #1 thing that could be holding you back from reaching your goals in business - fear of rejection - and the exact words you need to overcome it to drastically increase your enrollments and retention.

Phil is a crowd-favorite inside the Inner Circle, and over the course of this 3-episode special you’ll find out why! This retreat exclusive will have you enthralled from the very start as you discover the power of language in your dance studio, and gain practical examples that you can apply instantly in business and life.

This thought-provoking 3-part series will have you enthralled from the very start as you discover the power that language has over the subconscious brain, gain practical examples that you can apply instantly and learn how the “Magic Words” from Phil’s best-selling book, EXACTLY What To Say, are applied to your specific business-critical situations.

This mini-series delivers immediate actionable outcomes, where you can expect to be keen to work on your new word choices as early as the next break that follows!

What would YOU do if you had just one week to define your legacy?

In her final week as guest host, Kim McSwain answers this question as she breaks down the 5 core elements of YOUR 'Win-Win' dance studio machine.

Kim reflects on this 6-part series as she dives into her experiences and expertise when it comes to: instilling excellence at all times; addressing what's missing in your training; valuing your customers; uniting your studio family; and the importance of continuing your professional development.

This week, guest host Kim McSwain is talking about the #1 thing you need to invest in for your studio's future: continuing education.

Kim believes that we can ALL be better at what we do, but so many of us neglect professional or professional development because we're simply too busy.

Over the next 20 minutes, Kim will share her priorities for YOUR investment in the future, and the future of your dancers.

We hope you love this week's episode of the Win-Win Machine, powered by the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast as much as we do!

The great news for YOU is that the doors are now open to join the Dance Studio Owners Inner Circle.

The bad news?

They are only open for a very limited time.

So if you are ready to take your studio to the next level, make sure to apply for the Dance Studio Owners Inner Circle today, at dsoa.com/innercircle.

This week's episode is all about breaking down walls and uniting your studio family - and who better to bring you actionable tips that you can implement into your studio than guest host and DSOA Inner Circle Coach, Kim McSwain!

We hope you love this week's episode of the Win-Win Machine, powered by the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast as much as we do!

The great news for YOU is that the doors are now open to join the Dance Studio Owners Inner Circle.

The bad news?

They are only open for a very limited time.

So if you are ready to take your studio to the next level, make sure to apply for the Dance Studio Owners Inner Circle today, at dsoa.com/innercircle.

Guest host, Kim McSwain is channeling her inner 'Fresh Prince' this week, as she shares her insights into managing parents and relationships inside your studio.

Every time we ask our global community of studio owners, 'What is the biggest challenge you face in business'? the most common answer can be summed up in one word: PARENTS.

In this not-to-be-missed episode, Kim lays it all out on the table to help you manage the expectations and boundaries with your dance moms and dads so that you can have the thriving and harmonious business you deserve.

INTRODUCING THE NEW SEASON, NEW STUDENT SPRINT!

Clint Salter will be going live twice a day from July 18th to July 25th for our brand new, free training… The New Season, New Students Sprint!

He's sharing his top marketing strategies to make weekly new student enrollment your new normal.

Register now at dsoa.com/sprint

The focus of this week’s episode is critical for the survival of your dance studio, and that is to answer the question “what's missing in your training”?

No matter how big or small your studio is, no matter whether you have been operating for 5 months or 5 decades, in order to continue growing and thriving in business it’s imperative that we all continue to learn and not get “stuck” in what we know works.

Nobody knows this better than our ‘Win-Win Machine’ host, Kim McSwain, who has dedicated her career to empowering studio owners, teachers, parents and students to pursue excellence in every aspect of dance, business and life.

In this no-holds-barred episode, Kim shares:

How you can set yourself up to win in your personal and professional development goals by delegating efficiently and committing only to what serves YOU and your goals best
The importance of continual growth, and the dangers of getting stuck in your ways
Everyday hacks for prioritizing your most important tasks in order to enhance your performance and results

She also gives you the 3 self-reflections questions you need to ask yourself regularly that will keep you moving forward and accountable to your growth.

To help you prepare for your upcoming season, the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast and Changing Lives Founder, Kim McSwain are coming together to host this extraordinary 6-week special for Dance Studio Owners to become the ultimate Win-Win Studio!

In the grand finale of our Inner Circle Retreat Sneak Peek, Jesse Cole hosts a Q&A all about standing out, creating attention, and cultivating an amazing customer experience.

Jesse is the founder of Fans First Entertainment, owner of the Savannah Bananas and author of Find Your Yellow Tux. He has welcomed more than 1 million fans to his ballpark and been featured on MSNBC, CNN and ESPN. 🌟

Listen to the 3-part podcast series with Jesse, if you’ve missed it!

In the second part of our Inner Circle Retreat Sneak Peek, Jesse Cole shares how to develop a “fans first” mentality that will earn you both attention and word of mouth referrals. 🙌

Plus, discover how to never lose a customer again with his step-by-step plan to impress customers after the sale.

This week we’re kicking off a brand new podcast series! For the next 3 weeks, you’ll be getting an Inner Circle Retreat Sneak Peek with Jesse Cole. ☀️

Our first episode is all about creating the ultimate customer experience. Using the Raving Fans and Customer for Life techniques, Jesse walks our listeners through the strategy that transforms ordinary customers into loyal ones.

In the final episode of our Innovate & Thrive series, Kelli Leighton shares the moments when her creativity thrives, and it’s not what you might expect. As a mom of 4, Kelli shares that she somehow finds her creativity and innovation amongst the chaos (which may or may not include hiding in the closet from her 3 year old twins 😅). Instead of fighting the chaos, Kelli encourages us to embrace it and use it as our secret weapon.

Innovation is what distinguishes between a leader and a follower 💡

In the Episode 5 of 6: Innovate To Thrive Podcast, Kelli Leighton tells us about the most successful new role she’s created on her team that helped change their mindset on approaching challenges, finding solutions, and never using the words "but that's how we've always done it".

Is your brand a true representation of where your business is heading, or is it a reflection of just how it's always been done?

In this podcast episode, our host of the Innovate To Thrive series, Kelli Leighton shares the 3 keys on how to navigate through the innovation process 🚀 and the dangers of listening to alumni and besties during a rebrand.

Whether we like it or not, being open to change is crucial for running a successful business and in this week’s episode of the Transform My Dance Studio podcast, guest host Kelli Leighton is sharing some of her most vulnerable moments in order to inspire you in finding and protecting your vision.

“Innovation is the ability to see change as an opportunity and not as a threat.”

In episode #3 of this limited series “Innovate & Thrive” with Kelli Leighton, you’re invited to join us as we take a deep dive into:

What it really took for studio owners to constantly pivot and innovate every single day through the pandemic, and the lessons we can take into the future.
How to keep the innovative mindset that we have each been forced to create, and how to flex and reshape it into a muscle that is an asset to our business.
What could happen if we allow ourselves to continue breaking out of our established patterns in order to look at things in a new way.

Kelli also shares the unlimited thinking strategies she has used in a way that ensures she is always managing change on her own terms.

“Innovation is change that unlocks new value.”

Is your business truly a reflection of your vision? Or is it a collection of other people's opinions and definitions of success? 🤔

In part 2 of her podcast series, Innovate to Thrive, Kelli Leighton is sharing 3 big, scary questions she asked herself, her staff, and her most loyal clients that lead to a decision to rebuild her entire business.

This week we are so delighted to be introducing a brand new 6-week series here on the podcast, with guest host Kelli Leighton for the inspiring ‘Innovate & Thrive' series, powered by the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast.
Kelli is not only a member and guest coach inside the Dance Studio Owners Inner Circle, she is also the Owner and Artistic Director of Leighton Dance Project in California.

Just like so many dance studio owners, Kelli is a “creative” at heart, but what makes Kelli stand out as a leader in our industry is her ability to harness her creativity into innovation and action!

Over the next 6 weeks Kelli will help you discover the difference between being creative and innovative, and share her tools and tips for turning your dreaming into doing. Kelli will show you how you too can lead a creative, forward-thinking business through innovation and acting upon your creativity.

You’ll finally discover how to use your creative brain as your secret weapon!

When Kelli’s business was struggling most, she realized that if she could learn to bring her innovative self to the table in every aspect of her business, she could actually enjoy both the creative and the business aspects of owning a dance studio.

Because it wasn't enough to be just creative. Anyone can come up with creative ideas, but so few are able to put them into action, and in this groundbreaking episode, Kelli shares the 3 keys that have helped her develop and execute the innovative ideas that have translated into a thriving, million-dollar dance business.

In this week’s grand finale of our 3-part Inner Circle Retreat special, our extraordinary guest speaker Laurieann Gibson is answering our Inner Circle member’s most pressing questions in a never-before shared Q&A panel!

Laurieann shares her insights into:

How to ensure that new hires and guest teachers in your studio are aligned with your vision and follow your studio rules (especially those who might be higher-status or higher-maintenance than others!
Recognizing when it is time to collaborate and diversify when you experience stagnation in your studio’s growth
Helping your competitive dancers to navigate negative feedback and adopting a warrior mindset as a group

Laurieann also shares her tips for understanding and facing adversity in a productive way, and digging deep into what your challenges really mean.

You're invited into the Dance Studio Owners Inner Circle Retreat with this podcast exclusive - a sneak peak into Laurieann Gibson's powerful session: Dance Your Dance - Part Two.

Your dream, your dance, is unique to you.

No matter your calling, Laurieann wants you to seize your passion and use it to propel you to your best life.

Drawing on her fascinating artistic experiences and the faith that sustained her through her biggest challenges, Laurieann will discuss ways to encourage the dreamer in you and your teachers and students.

ABOUT LAURIEANN: One of the most important pop culture influencers in the entertainment today, director/choreographer/artist Laurieann Gibson is a force to be reckoned with.

Counting numerous international superstars such as Katy Perry, Lady Gaga, Diddy, Akon, K-pop's Big Bang, and Nicki Minaj among her clients, Gibson brings a unique brand, blending traditional artist development with movement and dance training to their collaborations.

Combined with a distinctive creative eye and an artist in her own right, she is one of the most sought-after creative directors and choreographers in the music and film industries today.

She was the creative visionary, director, and choreographer behind Gaga’s “The Fame Monster World Tour 2010”, receiving a 2011 Creative Emmy nomination for directing the HBO special taped at Madison Square Garden.

She was a choreographer for MTV’s hit television show “Making the Band”, and since then, she has appeared as a judge on several reality shows.

She is also the published author of Dance Your Dance: 8 Steps to Unleash Your Passion and Live Your Dream.

You're invited into the Dance Studio Owners Inner Circle Retreat with this podcast exclusive - a sneak peak into Laurieann Gibson's powerful session: Dance Your Dance - Part One.

Your dream, your dance, is unique to you.

No matter your calling, Laurieann wants you to seize your passion and use it to propel you to your best life.

Drawing on her fascinating artistic experiences and the faith that sustained her through her biggest challenges, Laurieann will discuss ways to encourage the dreamer in you and your teachers and students.

Studio Growth Week is here, and what better way to kick things off than with our EPIC final episode of the Connection To Creation series with your guest host, Cara Poppitt!

In the C2C grand finale, Cara is here to shed some light on building your thriving business so that you can enjoy a fulfilling life personally, professionally, creatively AND financially. She also shares her actionable tips that will empower you to make a significant impact in your community along the way.

This week you’ll discover:

How to shift your mindset from ‘director’ to ‘leader’ and why it matters
The tools you need to become a problem-solver and the changes you can expect to see when you being responding instead of reacting
Tips for managing the unexpected in your business and life, and seeing opportunities in every conflict
The power of accountability and celebration when bonding your team

And so much more!

DON’T FORGET - Studio Growth Week is happening this week, and it’s not too late to register! Click here to save your free space in this value-packed training ⇒ dsoa.com/growthweek

Don't forget - Studio Growth Week starts TODAY!

In case you missed the 411, this is a full week of FREE and unique studio sessions designed to make your life easier and allow you to run a smoother studio.

We’re covering strategies to help you:

Increase your new student numbers over the next 90 days
Automate key systems & save time with fully integrated studio software from Jackrabbit Dance
Foster authenticity & connection among your team to keep top talent happy & motivated
Re-enroll & retain more students with our proven processes
Peek behind the curtain to see real data and industry benchmarks from 4,000+ studios

It’s not too late to register >> https://dsoa.com/growthweek

One of the topics that a lot of Dance Studio Owners from all over the world are struggling with in 2022 is the leadership role they play in their studio.

Leading your team takes a lot of time to refine, and if this is an area you feel insecure about in your business then there are 2 pieces of great news in today’s podcast episode:

1/ You’re not alone, and
2/ It’s not too late!

Great leadership takes experience, and the only way you’re going to get there is by DOING, and in this week’s episode of Connection To Creation Cara will walk you through the action steps you can take to drastically improve your leadership confidence, including:

The importance of showing up - not just for your team, but also for yourself.
How tapping into your confidence will result in more intention decision-making and calmer conversations
The key factors in reducing pressure, stress and anxiety when leading from your higher level
Why you need to flex your confidence muscle every single day in order for it to grow
The empowering questions you should be asking yourself as part of your daily routine

Cara also gives you the roadmap to confidence by sharing the steps you can start taking right now to lead with confidence and connection.

“As studio owners we are teaching young girls how to show up in life. And if you can start really being dedicated to showing up for yourself, making yourself a priority, and showing women that it's okay to do that. We all rise up a little bit higher together.”

In this week's value-packed episode, guest host Cara Poppitt is sharing her hottest tips and tools to help you empower your team through connection.

As studio owners, to empower our team it's important to come from an authentic place in order to achieve the results that we desire while minimizing some of the common frustrations that we come up against when it comes to our TEAMS.

In this episode, Cara dives into:

Why it's important to care for your team members in order for them to reach their potential
The risks that you come up against when beng reactive, and operating out of fear in your business
What it means to really 'see' someone and the impact of small, simple acts in your business and life
The connection between delegation and empowerment in your team
The key questions you should be asking your team regularly (not just at their hiring interview!)

Cara also shares how to set clear and reasonable expectations with your team that will empower them to live up to their potential and stick with you through the ups and downs of studio life.

PS - Did you hear that The doors are officially open to apply to join the Dance Studio Owners Inner Circle - but they are only open for a very limited time.

So if you are ready to take your studio to the next level and join our team of coaches and guest experts in the world’s leading program for Dance Studio Owners, make sure to apply for the Dance Studio Owners Inner Circle today, at dsoa.com/apply.

Imagine what your studio - and your life - would look like if you focused on your wins.

If you focused on what's possible.

Imagine what your life would look like if you didn’t define yourself solely on your business success.

Now ask yourself this: “If I were connected to myself; connected to my vision; connected to my studio; connected to my tribe, how would that feel?” As studio owners, it’s not uncommon to feel stuck, or to battle with simply having too much on our plate at any given time.

But as leaders, we're also always evolving.

So how can we truly make the most out of our growing curiosity and ambition, if we’re also frequently finding ourselves in a state of overwhelm?

That’s exactly where Transform My Dance Studio guest host, Cara Poppitt comes in this week as she shares her simple but effective strategies that will help you to approach growing your business and upleveling your life the right way for you.

In this week’s episode of our Dance Studio Connection To Creation podcast series, Cara shares:

Why it’s important to look beyond the end result of your goals
The most important questions you can ask yourself and your team when it comes to goal-setting
The art of active listening and the unbelievable results you will see by making one simple change in your communication

Cara also dives into the methods she has used to tap into her ‘higher self’ to make positive, lasting changes to grow her business in a way that has served her goals.

“Inspiration alone is not enough. We also need the application.” - Cara Poppitt.

Over the next 6 weeks, we are delighted to be introducing guest host Cara Poppit for our unmissable ‘Connection To Creation' series. Cara is not only one of the DSOA's industry leading coaches inside the dance studio owners Inner Circle, she is also the Founder and Artistic Director of Soul Connexion in Calgary, and the founder and CEO of the Studio Fine Arts Club.

In this podcast series, Cara will be sharing the tools and strategies that have helped to launch her business ventures into empires, and the connections that have changed her life.

Over the next 6 weeks, we are delighted to be introducing guest host Cara Poppit for our unmissable ‘Connection To Creation' series.

Cara is not only one of the DSOA's industry leading coaches inside the dance studio owners Inner Circle, she is also the Founder and Artistic Director of Soul Connexion in Calgary, and the founder and CEO of the Studio Fine Arts Club.

In this podcast series, Cara will be sharing the tools and strategies that have helped to launch her business ventures into empires, and the connections that have changed her life.

Over the next 6 weeks, we are delighted to be introducing guest host Cara Poppit for our unmissable ‘Connection To Creation' series.

Cara is not only one of the DSOA's industry leading coaches inside the dance studio owners Inner Circle, she is also the Founder and Artistic Director of Soul Connexion in Calgary, and the founder and CEO of the Studio Fine Arts Club.

In this podcast series, Cara will be sharing the tools and strategies that have helped to launch her business ventures into empires, and the connections that have changed her life.

This week is part 2 of our super exciting sneak peek inside the Inner Circle, and we can’t wait to share this with you.

We’re back with Elise Mitchell, who is sharing more of her leadership expertise with us. This episode is all about how to get your team on-board with your bigger-picture goals by honing in on your leadership skills, gaining confidence from others and embracing uncertainty.

This week is part 1 of a super exciting sneak peek inside the Dance Studio Owners Inner Circle.

Part 1 all about “Leading Through the Turn” with the spectacular Elise Mitchell. Elise shares her leadership strategies to get the most out of your leadership journey, plus how to enjoy the ride, find greater work/life balance and much more.

Like most Dance Studio Owners, you probably know what it feels like to have a rough couple days (or weeks, or months if you look over the last 2 years!)

But you also know the feeling that pushes you through to the other side - the feeling and the knowledge that things are gonna get better soon.

Here in the Dance Studio Owners Inner Circle, it’s what is commonly known as the ‘Studio Rollercoaster’, and riding the highs and the lows of business is exactly what Angela and Jodi are diving into in this week’s episode of the Elevate Your Studio podcast.

Over the next powerful 20 minutes, join our hosts for their honest and powerful insights into:

Staying in your own lane without getting distracted or tempted to compare your own journey to that of others.
The importance of training your ‘resilience’ muscle to keep yourself from crashing every time you hit a bump in the road.
How to harness your own ‘hardcore mindset’ in order to thrive in the face of adversity
Sharing your ‘Studio Rollercoaster’ strategies with your students to help prepare them for the highs and lows of the dance industry

PLUS discovering the silver-lining that you never expected to see!

Enjoy this week’s episode in full right here, and make sure to subscribe to the Transform My Dance Studio podcast for over 400 episodes of pure Dance Studio gold.

Being a CEO is really hard – you have to find who you are, manage pressure, loneliness and other outside factors – all in the midst of a storm. This week’s episode is all about how to tackle those challenges and step into your role gracefully.

In this week's episode of the Transform My Dance Studio, our dynamic duo share how to build trust – a must-have for all studio owners – by embracing vulnerability with clients, paying attention, asking questions and always having an attitude of service.

They also cover the strategies they used to increase enrollments (and PROFITS) by expanding to schools and daycare centers.

Cultivating team players in your studio is a huge part of your growth as a business owners for one simple reason: you just can’t do it alone.

Sure, in the first few months and maybe even years of launching the dance studio you dreamed about, you can wear every hat. You might even enjoy doing everything, or perhaps you’re scared that if you start to bring more people in, things will start to go wrong.

It’s scary to bring more people into your studio, because let’s face it - it’s more than just a business to you. It’s your baby, your home. Your life.

But while bringing more people into the studio can be scary, bringing the right people into your studio can be transformational beyond anything you could have dreamed or planned on your own.

In this week’s episode of the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast, guest hosts Angela and Jodi share their own experiences in cultivating a dream team the right way, including:

How to assess the cost of new hires, and when you know the time is right to make place for a new employee in your team and your budget.
Baby-steps you can take to comfortably begin delegating, training and introducing new team members into your world without fear or overwhelm.
Common hiring mistakes and red-flag moments that they are desperate for YOU to avoid!

PLUS how to navigate the not-so-fun elements of leading your team when staying true to your studio vision and values.

This week you're invited to do something that's becoming increasingly RARE for a studio owner…

You see, so often we just keep going … and going ….and going…. and never really stop and give ourselves permission to pause. Or to give ourselves a break.

So often, we fall into the mindset that the harder we work, the more we'll achieve.

The show must go on, right?

Well…not quite.

In today's episode of the Elevate Your Studio series, you'll discover simple, healthy ways that you can reset and recharge (no, you don't need to take a holiday - unless you want to of course) so that you can be the best YOU for your studio, your family, and most importantly, for yourself.

What can YOU do on a daily basis to reset and recharge?

Find out on this week's episode of the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast!

Hi there Dance Studio Owners, and welcome to a brand new week here at the ‘Transform My Dance Studio’ podcast!

To kick off 2022 , we are delighted to be welcoming back Jodi Shilling and Angela Mannella-Hoffman as our guest hosts for the next 6 weeks in a brand new season of ‘Elevate Your Studio’

In their fourth season together behind the microphone, Jodi and Angela are laying it all on the table as they share the highs, lows and in-betweens of studio life, as well as value-packed tips and insights into how to create YOUR studio, YOUR way.

Jodi and Angela are the owners of Releve Studios in California, and Moore Than Dance in Minnesota and in this season we will be sharing their expertise on the evolution of studio owner into CEO, how to dream big and deliver on those dreams, cultivating a studio culture that thrives, and so much more!

2022 is just around the corner, but if you really want to hit the ground running, you should start preparing TODAY!

Why?

Proactive, future-thinking studio owners (and maybe even your competition) are already putting in place strategies to set them up for success in 2022.

In fact, in the minds of TOP studio owners, 2022 has already started.

We want to make sure you’re ahead of the game, so make sure to download your one-page planner at dsoa.com/onepage while you listen to this value-packed episode where we’ll be chatting about how to start the year strong and set a clear vision for the first 30 days of 2022.

The easiest way to overcome the Christmas complacency that tends to creep up on us over the holiday season is to have a clear plan that you can execute to come out swinging on January 1.

Look back on the past year with industry-leading coaches, Shannon Westveer and Hillary Parnell, and discover the biggest trends that will put you ahead of the pack for the new year!

Do you dream of starting your own dance business but just don’t know how? Or are you stuck wanting to grow but can’t seem to make progress?

Chief executive officer of DanceLife Unite and managing editor of DanceLife Australia, Chris Duncan, has taken the step to put her 35 years of dance industry knowledge and experience in words in the launch of her first book – DANCEBOSS: From Start-Up Enterprise to Dancepreneur.

Many in the dance industry enter the business world ‘accidentally’ because they just want to find a way to monetise doing what they love. At first it doesn’t even seem like work. Inevitably though, the fun-factor can fade – especially when things get tough (like when a pandemic hits!!)

First time author, Chris Duncan, knows the highs and lows of doing business in dance after a career spanning 35 years. As a teacher, choreographer, and studio owner, then as an agent, publisher, event manager and producer, Chris has dedicated herself to providing as many opportunities as possible for the next generation of dancers to learn, grow and become incredible future professionals. Now, Chris expands her mentoring role to help other passionate DANCEPRENEURS create their own dream enterprise and, in doing so, increase valuable work opportunities within the industry.

Over the next coming weeks, Clint has invited world-class dance studio owners from all over the globe to share their journeys and powerful lessons of running a thriving dance studio in a seemingly lonely industry.

It’s our final CEO Coffee Chat for 2021, and Heather & Patti are going out with a bang!

This week we are talking about what lights your candle. What truly ignites you? What drives you in your business? Do you consider yourself to be successful, and is your studio going down the right path for YOU?

In this conversation we are digging in deep to ask the question: Is your life by design, or is it by default?

You’ll discover how to rediscover joy in your goals, your process, and the tasks that you're doing (instead of creating a monster that you dread seeing each day!)

Pour yourself a coffee, and fall back in love with your studio with business-besties, Heather and Patti.

In this week’s episode (part 5 of our CEO Coffee Chat with Heather and Patti) our dynamic duo are drilling down into mindset, and aren’t afraid of getting a little bit uncomfortable as they open up about a mindset-block that so many studio owners need to overcome.

This week is all about giving yourself permission to be valued.

Heather and Patti are taking a deep and personal dive into what it means to know your worth, and the impact that this can have on your staff, your clients, and your business.

More than ever, dance studio owners need to hear these powerful words as we unpack:

Why Dance Studio Owners tend to experience a hesitancy around being valued, and the knee-jerk reactions that could be damaging both your profits and your emotional well-being.
How the ‘F-word’ (finances) can be reflected in how you value yourself, and the domino-effects of bad habits like not paying yourself, discounting, and reactive approaches to customer conflict. Heather and Patti also share simple tips on how to overcome these without sacrificing your values.
What you can do to start valuing yourself so that you can expect others to do the same both professionally and personally.
Why self-care needs to be the #1 priority for studio owners, and how to cure “I-Don’t-Have-Time-itis” to turn this simple habit into a non-negotiable part of your routine.

Our guest hosts also share the ‘aha’ moments that forced them to make some big changes in their studio that have completely eliminated late-payments and delinquent fees, permanently!

Pour your coffee and click here to access this week’s empowering episode of CEO Coffee Chat with Heather and Patti, powered by the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast.

A brand new episode of the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast has just hit the airwaves, and I hope you’re ready because this week our guest hosts are taking you and your studio from zero to 60 miles per hour in no time!

It’s Part 4 of our 6-part special, CEO Coffee Chat with Heather & Patti, and this week is all about staying in your lane while standing out from the crowd.

If you’ve ever suffered from ‘fear of missing out’ (FOMO), or been consumed by copycats, then Heather and Patti’s tips are going to change your mindset and your trajectory for this season - for the better.

Our coffee-fuelled business besties share their experiences when it comes to:

Losing sleep over copycats in the dance industry, and practical tools to help you remain in your lane and thriving in the face of competition.

“When you dial into that, you have a lot less problems. You don’t lose sleep over the little things. You have the right staff because they believe what you believe. You have the right clients, you have the right parents, and your dancers work the way you want them to work, because it all comes down to values” * Embracing a mindset of abundance, and how a ‘community over competition’ focus will help you enrol and retain more loyal dancers.

“There is room for as many studios that we can fit in our town, because we're really all truly bringing the gifts of dance to children. Why can't we just celebrate one another and work together? As soon as we let go of the pettiness and the silliness, we all succeed” * How to discover your ‘secret sauce’ to ensure you will stand out from the crowd (even when there is a studio on every corner):

“It’s what makes you stand out from the crowd. It’s why your dancers won’t leave you to go to another studio - because they don't have your secret sauce. We're all teaching dance, but the way that you do it and the things that you do for your clientele are so different based on what is important to YOU and your studio.”

Heather and Patti also share how they have both found ways to re-discover and ignite their love and passion for running their businesses, even through their toughest challenges.

This week, Heather and Patti will be talking about applying their positive and fun mindset to different areas of your dance studio while maintaining and strengthening your brand. In this episode, our coffee-loving business besties are talking about branding and marketing strategies that have changed the game for their studios. Our dynamic duo are giving you some specific examples and also some action items in each of these areas to help inspire you to apply these ideas in YOUR studio for 2022!

In this week's episode of our CEO Coffee Chat series, guest hosts Heather and Patti are sharing their best-kept secrets for running extraordinary events your customers, faculty and dancers will adore. Running successful studio events doesn't need to be a headache for the studio owner, and today you'll discover how to generate additional revenue, enhance customer experience, and have FUN at the same time! In our new 6-part series, "CEO Coffee Chat", you're invited to join this dynamic duo over a cup of coffee each week, and share an inside-look into the fun, fabulous - and often frustrating - world of studio ownership. Heather and Patti will be sharing the innovative strategies that they have implemented over the years to be among our industry's leading dance studios! Get ready to shed a few tears (and a whole lot of laughs) as these business-besties lay it all out on the coffee table.

Guest hosts and Studio CEO besties, Heather Buelow and Patti Johnston have joined the Transform My Dance Studio podcast team, and over the next 6 weeks they are here to change the way you look at leadership and life in your studio.

Introducing: CEO Coffee Chat with Heather and Patti!

In this week's unmissable premiere, this innovative pair of Dance Studio CEOs are sharing their proven, actionable tips on how you too can build an amazing and stand-out team and how it will benefit your studio, including:

Defining your core values, and why this is such an important step that many studio owners overlook. "Core values give me direction in every business decision that I make, and they also give my staff direction in every decision I want them to make...setting those core values makes your staff feel more connected with the studio and have more of a purpose."
Perfecting your pre-season faculty training & preparation.

"The kickoff staff meeting is so important to get everyone on the same page before the season begins. It's how I make sure that my standard is met in every class that's offered." * How to measure, review and improve your staff's performance. "I know that by giving my staff ownership, they'll just surprise me again and again."

PLUS Heather and Patti share their top tips for setting key performance indicators (KPIs), and teacher assessment processes that keep their faculty accountable and thriving in their roles.

Listen to episode #1 of CEO Coffee Chat, powered by the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast right here!

In today's episode, special guest Angela Mannella-Hoffman (CEO of Moore Than Dance, Minnesota USA) joins me for a not-to-be-missed interview where we dive into the 5 things that have helped to establish her studio as the 'go-to' venue for all under 6's in her area.

In just 20 powerful minutes, Angela shares her magic preschool formula that every studio owner should hear, including:

Finding and hiring the perfect preschool dance faculty who will ensure every student is begging to come back to the studio week after week. "You need to have a preschool teacher who absolutely adores this age. You don't ever want a preschool dance teacher who doesn't love what they're doing.
Creating an environment and atmosphere that will keep your dancers engaged from the moment they walk through your studio doors. "As teachers, we're setting the stage as soon as the dancers are coming in, even before the class starts. We always start the very same in our classes, and we always end the very same so that even the youngest dancers know exactly what to expect."
Bringing new enrollments into your preschool classes all-year round - without spending a fortune in advertising. "You have to be intentional. You have to really plan out the journey of a preschooler and look at your studio through a preschooler's eyes"**

PLUSAngela shares the #1 strategy for studio growth that she thinks every dance studio owner needs to know - and it all begins with her preschool program!

The biggest problem entrepreneurs have is that they don't know what their biggest problem is. If you find yourself trapped between stagnating sales, staff turnover, and unhappy customers, what do you fix first? Every issue seems urgent -- but there's no way to address all of them at once. The result? A business that continues to go in endless circles putting out urgent fires and prioritizing the wrong things.

Fortunately, Mike Michalowicz has a simple system to help you eradicate these frustrations and get your business moving forward, fast. Mike himself has lived through the struggles and countless distractions of entrepreneurship, and devoted years to finding a simple way to pinpoint exactly where to direct attention for rapid growth. He figured out that every business has a hierarchy of needs, and if you can understand where you are in that hierarchy, you can identify what needs immediate attention. Simply fix that one thing next, and your business will naturally and effortlessly level-up.

Over the past decade, Mike has developed an ardent following for his funny, honest, and actionable insights told through the stories of real entrepreneurs. Now, Fix This Next offers a simple, unique, and wildly powerful business compass that has already helped hundreds of companies get to the next level, and will do the same for you. Immediately.

The biggest problem entrepreneurs have is that they don't know what their biggest problem is. If you find yourself trapped between stagnating sales, staff turnover, and unhappy customers, what do you fix first? Every issue seems urgent -- but there's no way to address all of them at once. The result? A business that continues to go in endless circles putting out urgent fires and prioritizing the wrong things.

Fortunately, Mike Michalowicz has a simple system to help you eradicate these frustrations and get your business moving forward, fast. Mike himself has lived through the struggles and countless distractions of entrepreneurship, and devoted years to finding a simple way to pinpoint exactly where to direct attention for rapid growth. He figured out that every business has a hierarchy of needs, and if you can understand where you are in that hierarchy, you can identify what needs immediate attention. Simply fix that one thing next, and your business will naturally and effortlessly level-up.

Over the past decade, Mike has developed an ardent following for his funny, honest, and actionable insights told through the stories of real entrepreneurs. Now, Fix This Next offers a simple, unique, and wildly powerful business compass that has already helped hundreds of companies get to the next level, and will do the same for you. Immediately.

So much has changed over the past 18 months, however we can still deliver on the promises we make to ourselves. When the going gets tough, the tough get going. It’s time to call out the self-sabotage and shine a light on what’s possible. Create the mindset for immunity in these challenging times.

So much has changed over the past 18 months, however we can still deliver on the promises we make to ourselves. When the going gets tough, the tough get going. It’s time to call out the self-sabotage and shine a light on what’s possible. Create the mindset for immunity in these challenging times.

In this week’s exclusive behind-the-curtain and celebration of Dance Studio Life in 2021, the incredible Kayleigh Crocetto from Dance Central joins the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast to share:

How she pulled off her most profitable Summer ever in 2021, and the critical numbers she believes every studio owner should be keeping eye on. “I was very pleasantly surprised when I recently went through all of our numbers. I found out that we had our best summer ever based on revenue, even though at the time I didn’t feel like we were rising up to the expectations that I had set for myself.”
The huge mindset shift she noticed when taking time to reflect on her incredible progress over the last 5 years in business. “Track your revenue, track your student numbers and track your wins!”
Her experiences in taking the leap to expand her 2-person team and getting the right people into the right roles. “I had been running myself ragged trying to do all of the things, and I have learned over time that when we try to do all of the things, we’re not going to do any of them to the level of quality that we would want.”

Kayleigh also opens up about the decisions she made that allowed her studio to grow and thrive in the midst of a personal health crisis that put her out of action completely when she least expected it.

Over the next coming weeks, Clint has invited world-class dance studio owners from all over the globe to share their journeys and powerful lessons of running a thriving dance studio in a seemingly lonely industry.

Special guest, Carolyn Wells shares how she made 2021 her best year of Summer Camps ever, her epic tips for simple and effective recital planning, AND her answer to the million-dollar question: How to blend studio ownership and family life!

Over the next coming weeks, Clint has invited world-class dance studio owners from all over the globe to share their journeys and powerful lessons of running a thriving dance studio in a seemingly lonely industry.

Welcome to this brand new 6-part series inside the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast: 'The Stand-Out Studio' with guest hosts, Amanda Hunsley & Lisette Stein. Whether you have been a studio owner for two months, or two decades you will LOVE this inside-look into the brilliant minds behind Prestige Dance Academy, and unpack the essense of your studio's stand-out success. We know you are going to love hearing from studio owners who truly know what it takes - and aren't afraid to share - the formula to build a Million Dollar Dance Empire.

This week Amanda and Lisette open up about the importance of Self Care, and what it means to take care of yourself as a studio owner (not to mention a husband/wife, partner, parent and friend) in order to avoid the dreaded burn-out. "You cannot serve from an empty vessel" - Eleanor Brownn

Welcome to this brand new 6-part series inside the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast: 'The Stand-Out Studio' with guest hosts, Amanda Hunsley & Lisette Stein.

Whether you have been a studio owner for two months, or two decades you will LOVE this inside-look into the brilliant minds behind Prestige Dance Academy, and unpack the essence of your studio's stand-out success.

We know you are going to love hearing from studio owners who truly know what it takes - and aren't afraid to share - the formula to build a Million Dollar Dance Empire.

Welcome to this brand new 6-part series inside the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast: 'The Stand-Out Studio' with guest hosts, Amanda Hunsley & Lisette Stein.

Whether you have been a studio owner for two months, or two decades you will LOVE this inside-look into the brilliant minds behind Prestige Dance Academy, and unpack the essense of your studio's stand-out success.

We know you are going to love hearing from studio owners who truly know what it takes - and aren't afraid to share - the formula to build a Million Dollar Dance Empire.

Welcome to this brand new 6-part series inside the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast: 'The Stand-Out Studio' with guest hosts, Amanda Hunsley & Lisette Stein.

Whether you have been a studio owner for two months, or two decades you will LOVE this inside-look into the brilliant minds behind Prestige Dance Academy, and unpack the essense of your studio's stand-out success.

We know you are going to love hearing from studio owners who truly know what it takes - and aren't afraid to share - the formula to build a Million Dollar Dance Empire.

Welcome to this brand new 6-part series inside the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast: 'The Stand-Out Studio' with guest hosts, Amanda Hunsley & Lisette Stein.

Whether you have been a studio owner for two months, or two decades you will LOVE this inside-look into the brilliant minds behind Prestige Dance Academy, and unpack the essense of your studio's stand-out success.

We know you are going to love hearing from studio owners who truly know what it takes - and aren't afraid to share - the formula to build a Million Dollar Dance Empire.

Welcome to this brand new 6-part series inside the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast: 'The Stand-Out Studio' with guest hosts, Amanda Hunsley & Lisette Stein.

Whether you have been a studio owner for two months, or two decades you will LOVE this inside-look into the brilliant minds behind Prestige Dance Academy, and unpack the essense of your studio's stand-out success.

We know you are going to love hearing from studio owners who truly know what it takes - and aren't afraid to share - the formula to build a Million Dollar Dance Empire.

This week we have a very special episode for you, as we celebrate our 400th episode of Transform My Dance studio with you!

And what better way to get the celebrations rolling, than by sharing with you the best moments from some of our most memorable episodes over the years.

Today you’ll be hearing from some of our favorite podcast guests, including Mia Michaels, Mandy Moore, Todd Herman, Kim McSwain, Kingsley Grant, Noah Fleming, Adrienne Dorsison, and of course, the host and founder of the podcast, Clint Salter!

Over the next hour you’ll hear highlights from the industry’s best when it comes to training your dancers, delighting your customers, and managing your finances.

You’ll also discover our all-time favorite mindset strategies and leadership tips to help you thrive in business and beyond!

Join host Shannon Westveer as she chats with Preschool Dance Guru, Kirby Shield and uncovers the secrets behind her thriving adventures in preschool engagement and curriculum.

Are you ready to create a preschool dance program in your studio?

One that’s a profit powerhouse for your business...

One that attracts new students all year round and KEEPS them coming back to you season after season?

If the answer is yes, then today's episode is for YOU!

With special guest Meghan Retseck, Shannon and Clint are sharing how to structure your curriculum and where to source great music that’s fun and engaging (without getting sued of course.)

We’ll show you how to find the right teachers AND train them. On top of ALL that, you’ll also learn our BEST marketing techniques to promote your program to busy parents of preschoolers.

Join hosts Clint Salter and Shannon Westveer as they speak with Angela Mannella Hoffman who is an expert on building student numbers in the preschool age group. The trio discuss the keys for a successful preschool program, the marketing strategies that work, plus how to make this age group the most profitable in your studio.

Over the next 4 weeks you’ll be joining Clint and some very special guest experts for our “Preschool Dance Party” podcast!
As educators, we know dance is a powerful tool for early childhood development. Cultivating a love of dance early on can lead to so many positive outcomes...

Imagine welcoming a new student into your studio at age 3, and then KEEPING them through graduation. Not only is it rewarding and fulfilling to know you played such a positive and pivotal role in a child’s life, it’s also VERY good for your business!

That’s why we’re so excited to be bringing you this brand new series -- specifically to help studio owners engage with your Preschool Dance demographic!

Over the next 2 weeks, Clint has invited award-winning dance studio owners from all over the globe to share their stories and tips on growing and thriving in business through 2020 and beyond.

Guest host, Shannon Westverr shares her intimate chat with Kimberly Field - Inner Circle Studio Of The Year co-winner - and dives into her tips for student attraction, new ways to engage dancers, AND how she was able to keep her doors open, retain staff and actually grow her student numbers during 2020.

For the first time ever, the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast and Changing Lives Founder, Kim McSwain are coming together to host this extraordinary 6-week special for Dance Studio Owners to become the ultimate In-Demand Studio!

For the first time ever, the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast and Changing Lives Founder, Kim McSwain are coming together to host this extraordinary 6-week special for Dance Studio Owners to become the ultimate In-Demand Studio!

For the first time ever, the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast and Changing Lives Founder, Kim McSwain are coming together to host this extraordinary 6-week special for Dance Studio Owners to become the ultimate In-Demand Studio!

Inside your dance studio, there will always be business challenges to face, and these obstacles - as challenging as they may be - need to be overcome to reach that next level.

But what happens when you are faced with adversity both in business, and personally?

In this powerful episode, Kim shares how resilience can be learned, and how to harness it for better business and life.

Changing Lives Founder, Kim McSwain is taking over the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast for this brand new season, with her triple-threat value bombs for students, teachers, and studio owners. This week Kim dives into strategies to help you manage the unknown, as well as the uncontrollable in dance, work and life.

For the first time ever, the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast and Changing Lives Founder, Kim McSwain are coming together to host this extraordinary 6-week special for Dance Studio Owners to become the ultimate In-Demand Studio alongside the industry's best!

Dance convention favorite, Kim McSwain is truly one-of-a-kind. The connections she makes with each and every student is renowned, and today she opens up with Clint about the impact dance studio owners and teachers can have when you empower your dance community.

This thought-provoking session will have you enthralled from the very start as you discover the power that language has over the subconscious brain, gain practical examples that you can apply instantly and learn how the “Magic Words” from Phil’s best-selling book, EXACTLY What To Say, are applied to your specific business-critical situations. This session delivers immediate actionable outcomes, where you can expect to be keen to work on your new word choices as early as the next break that follows!

This week as a podcast BONUS, Clint has invited dance studio owners from all over the globe to share their stories and tips on growing and thriving in business through 2020 and beyond.

This week as a podcast BONUS, Clint has invited dance studio owners from all over the globe to share their stories and tips on growing and thriving in business through 2020 and beyond.

This week as a podcast BONUS, Clint has invited dance studio owners from all over the globe to share their stories and tips on growing and thriving in business through 2020 and beyond.

Today kicks off our bonus week Of Studio Success Secrets, where Clint has invited dance studio owners from all over the globe to share their stories and tips on growing and thriving in business through 2020 and beyond.

Michel Falcon, entrepreneur, author and keynote speaker, will share the strategies he has used to grow businesses across dozens of industries by using his People-First Culture and 3P strategy. You will walk away with real-works strategies to grow your dance studio.

Award-winning Studio Owner, Jena Minnick shares her actionable tips when it comes to:

Simple but effective Retention strategies that have seen over 90% retention in her studio (even during lockdown)
Knowing the right numbers in your studio, and how to set goals that will have you on the path to becoming a $1M studio
The new programs she has introduced to bring on over $20K in revenue just last year

Inner Circle ‘Customer Experience Of The Year’ award winner, Jodi shares her powerful insights into:

How she has created an unparalleled studio culture that stands out from the rest
The inspiring story of her impossible studio comeback from COVID-19
How her community impact has contributed to her continued success as one of our industry’s leading studio owners
Jodi also shares her extraordinary story of overcoming personal adversity, and how she has built up resilience to continue to rise to new challenges.

In this exclusive Inner Circle Retreat sneak-peek, Dave Crenshaw will show you and your staff how to find extra time at work, without having to work weekends. You’ll learn how to uncover precious minutes and hours—that add up to extra DAYS! —hiding right under your noses. Not only that, Dave will show you how to make that time COUNT with his truly unique brand of wit and wisdom.

In this exclusive Inner Circle Retreat sneak-peek, guest speaker Dr. Carrington will cover these five brave moves:
Name it to tame it
Shoulders. Drop.
Smile with your balls
Kindness and grace are more contagious than any virus.
Gratitude is a practice.

What are those things that will move your studio forward in 2021?

How are you going to become ‘BIGGER’?

(And I don’t necessarily mean in terms of your student numbers, or your revenue - your definition of playing BIG in business is your own)

In fact, some of the best studios in the world are also branded as single locations.

So how should you think about what’s next? Studio owners often spend a lot of time monitoring opportunities and threats in their area, but not quite moving the needle on their own terms simply because they don’t know where to start.

Until now, that is, because in today’s brand new episode of the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast, our guest host Shannon Westveer lays out the roadmap for you to futureproof your studio, and facilitate growth the right way.

In the final episode of this 6-part series, Shannon drops some value-bombs on planning for the future of your studio, including:

How to ensure you are one of the 33% of businesses that makes it past their 10 years
Differentiating yourself from other dance studios and standing out by embracing your niche
Delivering extraordinary service, consistently
How to address customer pain-points and use them to improve your overall customer experience
Creating an unforgettable studio culture, whether in-person or virtually

Shannon also shares what she believes to be the single most important piece of the puzzle when it comes to navigating the sometimes lonely world of owning your own dance studio.

Welcome to this brand new 6-part series inside the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast: 'Secrets To Your Successful Dance Studio' with guest host, Shannon Westveer.

Whether you have been a studio owner for two months, or two decades you will LOVE this inside-look into our DSOA Coaches Corner, and unpack the basics of your studio's success.

We know you are going to love hearing from a Studio Owner, turned Studio Growth Coach who truly knows what it takes - and isn't afraid to share - the formula to build a Million Dollar Dance Empire.

Welcome to this brand new 6-part series inside the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast: 'Secrets To Your Successful Dance Studio' with guest host, Shannon Westveer.

Whether you have been a studio owner for two months, or two decades you will LOVE this inside-look into our DSOA Coaches Corner, and unpack the basics of your studio's success.

We know you are going to love hearing from a Studio Owner, turned Studio Growth Coach who truly knows what it takes - and isn't afraid to share - the formula to build a Million Dollar Dance Empire.

Welcome to this brand new 6-part series inside the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast: 'Secrets To Your Successful Dance Studio' with guest host, Shannon Westveer.

Whether you have been a studio owner for two months, or two decades you will LOVE this inside-look into our DSOA Coaches Corner, and unpack the basics of your studio's success.

We know you are going to love hearing from a Studio Owner, turned Studio Growth Coach who truly knows what it takes - and isn't afraid to share - the formula to build a Million Dollar Dance Empire.

Welcome to this brand new 6-part series inside the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast: 'Secrets To Your Successful Dance Studio' with guest host, Shannon Westveer.

Whether you have been a studio owner for two months, or two decades you will LOVE this inside-look into our DSOA Coaches Corner, and unpack the basics of your studio's success.

We know you are going to love hearing from a Studio Owner, turned Studio Growth Coach who truly knows what it takes - and isn't afraid to share - the formula to build a Million Dollar Dance Empire.

Welcome to this brand new 6-part series inside the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast: 'Secrets To Your Successful Dance Studio' with guest host, Shannon Westveer.

Whether you have been a studio owner for two months, or two decades you will LOVE this inside-look into our DSOA Coaches Corner, and unpack the basics of your studio's success.

We know you are going to love hearing from a Studio Owner, turned Studio Growth Coach who truly knows what it takes - and isn't afraid to share - the formula to build a Million Dollar Dance Empire.

Get up-to-date on the LATEST state of affairs in the Dance Studio Industry and what to expect in the future!

In Part-2 of this podcast exclusive, you’ll get Clint's insider advice on where to focus your energy for maximum studio success in 2021 - plus an invitation to join our Student Attraction Intensive waitlist: dsoa.com/sai

Get up-to-date on the LATEST state of affairs in the Dance Studio Industry and what to expect in the future.

In this podcast exclusive, you’ll get Clint's insider advice on where to focus your energy for maximum studio success in 2021 - plus an invitation to join our FREE New Student Bootcamp starting January 11: dsoa.com/bootcamp

In this special episode, you'll discover see exactly how TOP performing Studio Owners (the cream of the Dance Studio Owner crop, really) are tackling 2020, including:

Exciting and innovative ways to create online curriculum and virtual revenue
Out-of-the-box social media and PR campaigns that are actually working right now
Real-world examples of online customer experiences that “WOW!” studio families
Leadership techniques and overcoming common virtual studio obstacles
The secrets to staying steadfast in your vision and on track to achieve it

In this special episode, you'll discover see exactly how TOP performing Studio Owners (the cream of the Dance Studio Owner crop, really) are tackling 2020, including:

Exciting and innovative ways to create online curriculum and virtual revenue
Out-of-the-box social media and PR campaigns that are actually working right now
Real-world examples of online customer experiences that “WOW!” studio families
Leadership techniques and overcoming common virtual studio obstacles
The secrets to staying steadfast in your vision and on track to achieve it

In this special episode, you'll discover see exactly how TOP performing Studio Owners (the cream of the Dance Studio Owner crop, really) are tackling 2020, including:

Exciting and innovative ways to create online curriculum and virtual revenue
Out-of-the-box social media and PR campaigns that are actually working right now
Real-world examples of online customer experiences that “WOW!” studio families
Leadership techniques and overcoming common virtual studio obstacles
The secrets to staying steadfast in your vision and on track to achieve it

In this special episode, you'll discover see exactly how TOP performing Studio Owners (the cream of the Dance Studio Owner crop, really) are tackling 2020, including:

Exciting and innovative ways to create online curriculum and virtual revenue
Out-of-the-box social media and PR campaigns that are actually working right now
Real-world examples of online customer experiences that “WOW!” studio families
Leadership techniques and overcoming common virtual studio obstacles
The secrets to staying steadfast in your vision and on track to achieve it

In this special episode, you'll discover see exactly how TOP performing Studio Owners (the cream of the Dance Studio Owner crop, really) are tackling 2020, including:

Exciting and innovative ways to create online curriculum and virtual revenue
Out-of-the-box social media and PR campaigns that are actually working right now
Real-world examples of online customer experiences that “WOW!” studio families
Leadership techniques and overcoming common virtual studio obstacles
The secrets to staying steadfast in your vision and on track to achieve it

In this special episode, you'll discover see exactly how TOP performing Studio Owners (the cream of the Dance Studio Owner crop, really) are tackling 2020, including:

Exciting and innovative ways to create online curriculum and virtual revenue
Out-of-the-box social media and PR campaigns that are actually working right now
Real-world examples of online customer experiences that “WOW!” studio families
Leadership techniques and overcoming common virtual studio obstacles
The secrets to staying steadfast in your vision and on track to achieve it

In this special episode, you'll discover see exactly how TOP performing Studio Owners (the cream of the Dance Studio Owner crop, really) are tackling 2020, including:

Exciting and innovative ways to create online curriculum and virtual revenue
Out-of-the-box social media and PR campaigns that are actually working right now
Real-world examples of online customer experiences that “WOW!” studio families
Leadership techniques and overcoming common virtual studio obstacles
The secrets to staying steadfast in your vision and on track to achieve it

In this special episode, you'll discover see exactly how TOP performing Studio Owners (the cream of the Dance Studio Owner crop, really) are tackling 2020, including:

Exciting and innovative ways to create online curriculum and virtual revenue
Out-of-the-box social media and PR campaigns that are actually working right now
Real-world examples of online customer experiences that “WOW!” studio families
Leadership techniques and overcoming common virtual studio obstacles
The secrets to staying steadfast in your vision and on track to achieve it

Over the coming weeks we are delighted to be sharing with you a rare opportunity to be a ‘fly on the wall’ during Clint’s one-on-one coaching sessions with our Inner Circle members.

During this special series of ‘Dance Studio Doctor’, join Clint as he workshops innovative ideas and solutions around student attraction and retention, finances, building your dream team, expanding your dance studio empire, reigniting your passion for business and so much more.

Over the coming weeks we are delighted to be sharing with you a rare opportunity to be a ‘fly on the wall’ during Clint’s one-on-one coaching sessions with our Inner Circle members.

During this special series of ‘Dance Studio Doctor’, join Clint as he workshops innovative ideas and solutions around student attraction and retention, finances, building your dream team, expanding your dance studio empire, reigniting your passion for business and so much more.

Over the coming weeks we are delighted to be sharing with you a rare opportunity to be a ‘fly on the wall’ during Clint’s one-on-one coaching sessions with our Inner Circle members.

During this special series of ‘Dance Studio Doctor’, join Clint as he workshops innovative ideas and solutions around student attraction and retention, finances, building your dream team, expanding your dance studio empire, reigniting your passion for business and so much more.

Over the coming weeks we are delighted to be sharing with you a rare opportunity to be a ‘fly on the wall’ during Clint’s one-on-one coaching sessions with our Inner Circle members.

During this special series of ‘Dance Studio Doctor’, join Clint as he workshops innovative ideas and solutions around student attraction and retention, finances, building your dream team, expanding your dance studio empire, reigniting your passion for business and so much more.

For the first time ever, The Dance Studio Doctor series will give you an sneak peek at Clint's one-on-one coaching sessions where he will help Inner Circle members overcome their current studio challenges and maximize on opportunities.

Over the coming weeks we are delighted to be sharing with you a rare opportunity to be a ‘fly on the wall’ during Clint’s one-on-one coaching sessions with our Inner Circle members.

During this special series of ‘Dance Studio Doctor’, join Clint as he workshops innovative ideas and solutions around student attraction and retention, finances, building your dream team, expanding your dance studio empire, reigniting your passion for business and so much more.

In this very special series of podcasts, we are taking an inspiring look behind the scenes of real dance studios and the owners behind them.

For the first time ever, The Dance Studio Doctor series will give you an sneak peek at Clint's one-on-one coaching sessions where he will help Inner Circle members overcome their current studio challenges and maximize on opportunities.

Over the coming weeks we are delighted to be sharing with you a rare opportunity to be a ‘fly on the wall’ during Clint’s one-on-one coaching sessions with our Inner Circle members.

During this special series of ‘Dance Studio Doctor’, join Clint as he workshops innovative ideas and solutions around student attraction and retention, finances, building your dream team, expanding your dance studio empire, reigniting your passion for business and so much more.

Brené Brown...

Nicole Kidman...

Diane von Furstenberg...

Gloria Steinem...

What do all these women have in common?

If you said being female role models and power houses in their respective fields, you’d be right of course! But another thing they have in common is working with Emma Isaacs.

Emma is the Founder and Global CEO of Business Chicks, the author of Winging It (released just this week) and lucky for us, she sat down with Clint for a 1:1 interview!

Emma and Business Chicks have raised over $13 million for various non-profits, and each year her team produces events and content that reach over 500,000 women.

She has graciously opened the curtain and shared her candid thoughts about everything from entrepreneurship, to letting go over perfectionism and her biggest tips for success in life and business.

Your zone of genius is what's most effortless for you as a Dance Studio Owner. When you combine this natural talent and skill with hours of practice and repetition, you find yourself among the small percentage of people who can break through and redefine an industry.

In this week's episode, Hillary will help you recognize that your zone of genius is not just what you're "passionate" about, or what you like the idea of. In fact, it can often be something you may not love a whole lot initially, but it's something you recognize you are naturally gifted at. The combination is what will help you strike gold in your dance studio!

Pandemics. Burst pipes. Electrical fires. Your teachers opening a studio nearby... What do all of these things have in common? They can all spell disaster for a dance studio. The event doesn’t have to be of epic proportions or an officially declared disaster to wreak havoc on your studio's bottom line. In this episode, guest host Hillary Parnell shares her strategies for crisis-prevention as she hopes for the best, but prepares for the worst.

The good news is that by taking steps to create a plan preparing your business for disasters and emergencies, you can avert or lessen the effect of a crisis of any kind and size.

Like every other entrepreneur in the world, often the challenge facing Dance Studio Owners isn’t a lack of new ideas - it’s figuring out which ideas are worth spending time and money on. In today's episode, Hilary shares her biggest tips for deciding how and when to act on new business ideas, including how to breakdown the key elements of your idea, seeking customer feedback, testing and more!

We are thinking outside of the box with guest host Hillary Parnell in this week's podcast, as we explore all of the innovative ways you can increase profits and enhance customer experience inside your dance studio.

This is such a fun 30 minutes where your creativity will be sparked and new, exciting ideas will come to life!

Oftentimes Dance Studio Owners focus so much on making more money that we forget about efficiently cutting costs.

In today's episode of 'Plies To Profits', Hillary shares her favorite strategies for finding more money in your studio that you probably didn't know existed!

Welcome to our brand new Podcast Series, 'Plies To Profits' with Hillary Parnell!

In today's value-packed episode Hillary shares her Thriving Studio Checklist and invites you to discover the strengths and weaknesses inside your own business so that you can transform it into the studio of your dreams.

Over the next 8 weeks we will be unlocking the joy within studio ownership with a dance studio owner - just like you - who has experienced the highs, lows, and in-betweens throughout their journey in business.

This week we are delighted to be wrapping up this rare opportunity to listen in on Clint's online Coach-A-Thon series!.

During Part 2 of this Transform My Dance Studio Special, join Clint as he workshops innovative ideas and solutions around 4 places to market your studio to increase your enrollments; how to stand out from your competition; the biggest marketing mistakes studio owners are making… and so much more gold for your dance studio in 2020 and beyond.

We hope you enjoy today’s special episode - and make sure to join our free Facebook Group ‘The Dance Studio Owners Hub’ for more resources and support in growing the dance studio of your dreams.

Over the coming weeks we are delighted to be sharing with you a rare opportunity to listen in on Clint's online Coach-A-Thon series!. During this 2-part special of Transform My Dance Studio, join Clint as he workshops innovative ideas and solutions around 4 places to market your studio to increase your enrolments; how to stand out from your competition; the biggest marketing mistakes studio owners are making… and so much more gold for your dance studio in 2020 and beyond. We hope you enjoy today’s special episode - and make sure to join our free Facebook Group ‘The Dance Studio Owners Hub’ for more resources and support in growing the dance studio of your dreams.

In the final podcast of our “Confetti State of Mind” series, Becca and Dani are answering a few of your questions! From navigating the season with Covid policies to their top tips on Social Media, Marketing and Preschool dance classes, they touch on a little of everything! We hope this will leave you with some inspiration to begin the new dance season with confidence!

Becca and Dani share some ideas for some fun “Back to Dance” ideas from an open house and marketing ideas to updating your outdoor space. Here are some ideas for virtual and in-person events!

In this podcast, we are breaking down how we structure our Performing Companies at our studio, Rhythm Dance Center! We hope you get some ideas and inspiration to help you format your dancers of all ages and levels. We also discuss how we made our Virtual Auditions work successfully this season and how our Companies help make our summers successful! Spoiler alert: provide performing opportunities for all!

In this week’s podcast, Becca and Dani are sharing some great creativity challenges for your dancers that will work virtually or in the studio! During this uncertain time, we are all looking for fun ideas for the studio and we love creativity, so we hope these ideas will inspire you to get creative with your students!

Today in our Confetti State of Mind we are giving you a breakdown of our weekly and daily schedules and how we make all the things happen! From our weekly staff meeting to batching our big projects, we are sharing our secrets for being productive at our studio! Spoiler alert: we work a lot! We are constantly trying new things to become more efficient in tackling our workload. It is a work in progress and we hope you hear something that inspires you!

Today guest hosts Becca and Dani are going to share lots of our fun crafting secrets, and talk about how they create some of the fun visuals and backdrops and props you have seen used for Confetti on the Dance Floor and Rhythm Dance Center. Crafting is an extension of branding and is a way to create truly unique backdrops and props for the studio. The dynamic duo also share how they use crafting on some of their costumes! Get your glue guns ready for this is fun episode with some crafty and colorful ideas to help you to #makedancefun at your studio!

Today in our Confetti State of Mind we are sharing ten ideas for you to survive and thrive the summer at your dance studio! We think these ideas will help you during uncertain times as well as thriving times! From using Becca and Dani's 'Camp Confetti Summer Dance Camps' to creating a fun event with like-minded businesses in your community, check out this podcast with ten ideas to help you survive and thrive during the summer!

Becca and Dani will be talking about applying their positive and fun mindset to different areas of your dance studio while maintaining and strengthening your brand. In the first episode, they are talking about branding and how they applied a "Confetti State of Mind" through quarantine literally in our branding, through communication with our families and dancers and innovation in branding for your studio. Becca and Dani are giving you some specific examples and also some action items in each of these areas. Their goal is to help inspire you to apply these ideas within in your studio going into a new dance season!

Maintaining workplace harmony should be a key focus of every dance studio. Conflict in the studio can lead to behaviours such as bullying, harassment and discrimination. Staff can lack motivation, fail to work as a team and be generally unhappy. In this important episode, Jodi and Angela dissect how studio owners and teachers deal with conflict, and encourage staff to work together to promote harmony in the workplace.

2020 has thrown the dance world a number of curveballs, and in this episode Angela and Jodi share how they have navigated the Covid Crisis, and made the most of a new teaching platform to support and guide their dance families through change beyond the dance studio.

With so many dance studio options available to your potential customers, you need to ace your first impression so it’s not your last. That’s why you always hear people talking about how important it is to have a good elevator pitch up your sleeve. First impressions, fairly or unfairly, can greatly influence how somebody thinks about you and your studio, and in today’s episode Jodi and Angela share their best First Impression tips!

Welcome to Episode #3 of our brand new podcast series, "Elevate Your Dance Studio" with your special guest hosts, Jodi Shilling and Angela Mannella-Hoffman. This is the podcast for dance studio owners, by dance studio owners. Jodi and Angela both run successful dance studios of their own, while also raising families and navigating the ups, downs and inbetweens of being a business owner - and they have a whole lot of fun along the way!