Dance Studio 411

Dance Studio Owner
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Dance Studio 411

Need expert advice on handling dance studio dilemmas and drama? Suzanne Blake Gerety and Jill Tirone take real-life questions directly from our listeners and help you resolve your toughest, most frustrating or just-plain-complicated studio life predicaments. In each episode they tackle the topics that keep you awake at night from how to successfully navigate parent-problems, teacher turnover, student challenges, policy dilemmas, and much more. Join them as they feature innovators who pull back the curtain and offer timely ideas and solutions. We also love to keep things light and have fun along the way! We’re so excited for you to join the conversation.

  1. Creating Stakeholders in Your Dance Studio Business

    MAR 11

    Creating Stakeholders in Your Dance Studio Business

    Episode Description In this episode, Jill Tirone is joined by Amelia Fazio to discuss how dance studio owners can empower their teachers to become true stakeholders in their business. They explore why teacher engagement is essential, how to create a positive studio culture, and practical ways to help teachers feel invested in the studio’s success. Key Takeaways Why Teachers Matter as Stakeholders - Teachers are frontline brand ambassadors who shape the student experience. Building Teacher Engagement & Buy-In - Create a studio culture where teachers feel valued, encouraged, and included. The Power of Communication - Keep teachers informed about policies, schedules, and changes while Providing them with resources and clear paths for handling student or parent concerns. Encouraging Teacher Investment in Studio Growth - Provide ongoing education, leadership opportunities, and support for professional development. Showing Appreciation & Strengthening Relationships - Small gestures, such as studio logo wear or handwritten notes, can boost morale. Episode Timestamps [01:37] Amelia’s background and experience in dance, business, and arts nonprofits. [04:34] Who are the stakeholders in your studio, and why does it matter? [09:26] Strategies to keep teachers informed and aligned with your vision. [13:48] Ways to make teachers feel invested in the studio’s success. [16:14] Overcoming challenges to teacher participation and involvement. [19:32] How teachers influence retention and enrollment growth. [26:07] Ensuring teachers align with studio goals and expectations. [31:20] Ideas for showing appreciation and boosting teacher morale. Links Mentioned in this Episode... Energize Conference and Expo: https://www.energizeconference.com/ Dance Studio Owner: https://www.dancestudioowner.com/public/joinnow.cfm About Our Guest: Amelia’s lifelong passion for dance started at the age of five, leading her to train with some of the most renowned instructors in the field. After her own dance career, she earned a degree in Public Communications and combined her love of dance with business, working in arts nonprofits, apparel, and costume design before joining Revolution in 2021. Rate, Review & Subscribe! If you loved this episode, be sure to subscribe and leave us a review. Your feedback helps us continue to bring valuable content to the dance community! Running a dance studio is hard work, and growing your studio is even more of a challenge. No matter if you're just starting out—or perhaps you're a well-established owner; we understand that it's a uniquely demanding and personal business to own and operate. Be more effective and productive.  As studio owners ourselves, we've been there. But, it's also very possible to be a happy owner of a thriving dance business that you love. Learn More About Membership: http://www.DanceStudioOwner.com/podcast

    39 min
  2. Tap to the Future

    MAR 7

    Tap to the Future

    Episode Summary: In this episode of Dance Studio 411, we dive into the world of tap with Julie Kay Stallcup, Melanie McGonigal, and Mandy Yip, the passionate team behind the innovative Tap Roots curriculum. This power house trio discuss the historically significant art form and their new curriculum, Tap Roots, which provides a structured and comprehensive approach to teaching tap in dance studios.  Key Takeaways: Preserving Tap’s Legacy: Tap dance is culturally rich and historically significant but often underrepresented, especially in competitions and conventions. Consistency is Key: The Tap Roots curriculum promotes consistency in terminology, helping students build on their knowledge even if teachers change. Teaching with Confidence: By offering structured resources, Tap Roots empowers teachers of all levels to teach tap with confidence and creativity. Magic in the Shoes: As Julie Kay beautifully puts it, “When tap shoes are on a child's feet, magic happens.” Time Stamps: 02:22 – Julie Kay shares her personal journey with tap dance and its lifelong impact on her. 06:26 – Discussion on the decline of tap dance in competitions and the need to revitalize its presence. 11:57 – How Tap Roots ensures consistency in tap terminology and instruction across studios. 13:41 – Overview of the Tap Roots curriculum, including lesson plans, worksheets, and certification. 18:34 – Strategies for new tap teachers to build confidence in their teaching abilities. 25:15 – Creative teaching strategies to develop musicality in tap dancers. Links Mentioned in this Episode: Tap Roots Website Discount Code: REV15 for 15% off admin@taproots.dance  About Our Guest: Meet Julie Kay Stallcup!   Julie Kay Stallcup is a nationally recognized dance educator, mentor, and speaker whose sold-out seminars and magnetic personality inspire teachers across the country. As the founder of JULIE KAY MASTERMIND LLC, she empowers dance teachers and studio owners with the tools to thrive—both in business and in the classroom.   For 15 years, she co-owned Revolution Dance Center, building a studio where dancers flourished and alumni went on to Broadway, TV, film, and beyond. Now based in Arkansas with her husband Darrell and their three children, Julie Kay continues to spread her passion for dance at Dance Dynamics and through her “ican” program for differently-abled dancers.   A former Las Vegas showgirl, magician’s assistant, and Latin American Music Awards performer, Julie Kay brings real-world experience to her teaching. She’s an adjudicator for top competitions, a board member of UDMA and Ronald McDonald House Charities, and a certified life coach helping educators and business owners find joy, balance, and success.   Her motto? "Hold the Vision and Trust the Process. About Taproots: Taproots is a foundational curriculum for teaching Tap Dancing. Tap Roots offers a progressional method for instruction, honoring traditional and modern elements. Starting at the Primary level, we introduce Tap with single sounds, basic movement, and an easily understandable foundation that builds to the advanced skills of Level Six. By following our syllabus, your students will develop a comprehensive aptitude for Tap and the tools needed to propel their Tap Dancing to even higher achievements. Get Connected: Tap Roots Instagram: @taprootsdance Julie Kay Stalcup Instagram: @jkstallcup Rate, Review & Subscribe! If you loved this episode, be sure to subscribe and leave us a review. Your feedback helps us continue to bring valuable content to the dance community! Running a dance studio is hard work, and growing your studio is even more of a challenge. No matter if you're just starting out—or perhaps you're a well-established owner; we understand that it's a uniquely demanding and personal business to own and operate. Be more effective and productive.  As studio owners ourselves, we've been there. But, it's also very possible to be a happy owner of a thriving dance business that you love. Learn More About Membership: https://www.dancestudioowner.com/public/joinnow.cfm

    31 min
  3. Maximize Your Recital Revenue with DRT Performance Tix

    FEB 21

    Maximize Your Recital Revenue with DRT Performance Tix

    Episode Description: In this episode of Dance Studio 411, we sit down with Josh Olson, the founder of DRT Performance Tix, the leading ticketing provider in the dance industry. Josh shares how DRT Tix helps dance studios simplify the ticketing process, increase revenue, and protect against common challenges like chargebacks. With a customer-first approach and a newly launched Customer Success Management (CSM) program, DRT is revolutionizing how dance studios manage ticket sales. DRT Performance Tix is a 2025 Captivate Sponsor for Revolutions's Energize Conference. Key Takeaways: Customer Success Mindset: DRT is shifting from a transactional model to a proactive support system, helping studios maximize ticket sales and revenue. (05:48) Seamless Ticketing & Seating: Studios benefit from features like numbered seating layouts, premium seating options, and optimized price modeling strategies. (12:25) Revenue-Boosting Strategies: Price modeling techniques, including the "30/30 rule," encourage early sales and increased profitability. (17:32) Merchandise Integration: Studios can sell recital-related products alongside tickets, increasing revenue per transaction. (19:26) Chargeback Protection: DRT safeguards studios from financial losses due to chargebacks, ensuring all transactions remain secure. (22:10) Time Stamps: [00:36] Introduction to Josh Olson and DRT Performance Tix [01:46] How Josh founded DRT and its growth to 2,500+ studios [05:56] The launch of the Customer Success Management (CSM) program [09:00] DRT’s key features for studio ticketing success [17:32] How pricing strategies increase ticket sales and revenue [19:26] Integrated merchandise sales for additional profit [22:03] How DRT protects studios from chargebacks [23:57] The easy onboarding process and ongoing support [26:26] How to get started with DRT Resources Mentioned: DRT Performance Tix Website Energize Conference About Our Guest: Josh Olson is the founder of DRT Performance Tix, which has grown to serve over 2,500 dance studios since its inception in 2012. A computer programmer from a young age, Josh developed a ticketing solution for a dance studio and turned it into a thriving business dedicated to helping studios streamline their recital ticketing process. Connect with DRT Performance Tix: Instagram: @drtperformancetix Website: https://www.drttix.com/ Rate, Review & Subscribe! If you loved this episode, be sure to subscribe and leave us a review. Your feedback helps us continue to bring valuable content to the dance community! Running a dance studio is hard work, and growing your studio is even more of a challenge. No matter if you're just starting out—or perhaps you're a well-established owner; we understand that it's a uniquely demanding and personal business to own and operate. Be more effective and productive.  As studio owners ourselves, we've been there. But, it's also very possible to be a happy owner of a thriving dance business that you love. Learn More About Membership: http://www.DanceStudioOwner.com/podcast

    59 min
  4. Summer Programs That Work

    FEB 12

    Summer Programs That Work

    Are you ready to transform your summer from a financial struggle into a season of growth and success? In this episode, we sit down with Ginger Haithcox, a seasoned dance studio owner and business coach, to discuss actionable strategies for making summer a profitable and engaging time for your studio. From setting measurable goals to offering irresistible summer programs, Ginger shares her expert insights on how to maximize revenue, retain students, and avoid burnout. Tune in to learn how to make your summer as exciting as your recital season! Key Takeaways: Set Clear Summer Goals – Move beyond just breaking even and aim for profitability. Know Your Community – Conduct research to understand family needs and preferences. Offer Engaging Programs – Think beyond traditional dance classes and include full-day camps, preschool sessions, and evening workshops. Manage Finances Wisely – Budget strategically, set appropriate pricing, and track financial progress. Follow Through with Action – Plan summer offerings with the same level of detail and excitement as your recital season. Timestamps: [5:23] Set specific, measurable goals for the summer rather than vague goals like "just breaking even." [12:29] Conduct community research to understand the needs and preferences of local families during the summer.  [17:58] Offer a variety of summer programs, including full-day camps, half-day preschool camps, and evening/weekend classes.  [21:36] Focus on creating a fun, camp-like experience rather than just dance technique classes. [26:21] Manage the financial aspects carefully, including budgeting, saving, and adjusting pricing as needed. [35:33] Commit to specific actions and follow through to make the summer successful. Links Mentioned in this Episode… Head on over to Ginger’s website and check out the course: https://www.gingerhaithcox.com/summer Energize Conference: https://www.energizeconference.com Sell Dancewear Online: https://www.revolutiondance.com/nimbly ChatGPT: https://chatgpt.com Profit First: https://mikemichalowicz.com/profit-first/ About our guest: Ginger Haithcox is a serial entrepreneur, certified life coach, and financial expert with over 20 years of experience helping business owners achieve financial success, personal fulfillment, and sustainable growth. As a current dance studio owner, teacher, and master certified financial coach, Ginger combines firsthand entrepreneurial experience with a passion for empowering others to thrive in their businesses. Beyond coaching, Ginger is a dynamic entrepreneur—blogger, podcaster, photographer, speaker, digital course creator, and website designer—dedicated to helping business owners streamline operations, overcome burnout, and rediscover their passion. Through her podcast, Life Coaching for Dance Studio Owners, and creative projects, she shares practical tools and innovative ideas to inspire success. Known for her relatable, hands-on approach and proven strategies, Ginger is a sought-after mentor and speaker at conferences and events. She equips business owners with the mindset, financial confidence, and leadership skills needed to create thriving businesses that bring them both peace and profits. Ginger's mission is to empower entrepreneurs with the clarity and tools they need to build profitable businesses while maintaining balance in their personal and professional lives. Connect with Ginger Haithcox: Instagram: @haithcoxbiz Website: https://www.gingerhaithcox.com/ Podcast: https://danceentreprenuers.libsyn.com/site Rate, Review & Subscribe! If you loved this episode, be sure to subscribe and leave us a review. Your feedback helps us continue to bring valuable content to the dance community! Ready to make this your most successful summer yet? Hit play and start strategizing! Running a dance studio is hard work, and growing your studio is even more of a challenge. No matter if you're just starting out—or perhaps you're a well-established owner; we understand that it's a uniquely demanding and personal business to own and operate. Be more effective and productive.  As studio owners ourselves, we've been there. But, it's also very possible to be a happy owner of a thriving dance business that you love. Learn More About Membership: http://www.DanceStudioOwner.com/podcast

    42 min
  5. Secrets to a Stress-Free Recital

    FEB 4

    Secrets to a Stress-Free Recital

    In this episode of the Dance Studio 411 podcast, we’re speaking with Leo Moore from DRT Performance Tix, where we discuss top tips for stress-free performances. Leo shares her extensive experience in the industry, offering valuable insights on on how to streamline your shows and create memorable experiences for both your students and audience. From understanding different types of seating arrangements to managing multiple shows and gathering feedback from families, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you reduce stress and ensure a smooth and enjoyable recital planning process. Whether you're a seasoned studio owner or just starting out, you'll find plenty of useful tips to make your performances run seamlessly. Key Takeaways Types of Seating Multiple Shows Ask your families Keep it easy Time Stamps [04:31] The pros and cons of general admission, assigned seating, and tiered/premium seating, and how studios can structure ticketing to meet their needs. [08:26] Strategies for adding extra shows or splitting a single show into multiple performances, including managing costs, offering discounts, and accommodating families. [22:54] The importance of gathering feedback from families, understanding their needs, and clearly communicating plans to avoid confusion.  [22:38] Keeping the recital planning and ticketing process as simple and straightforward as possible to reduce stress for both studio owners and families.  Links Mentioned in this Episode… DRT Performance Tix Website About our Guest Leo Moore has been a part of the DRT leadership team for almost 2.5 years. She has worked across departments to develop and improve processes that benefit both her fellow DRT team members and DRT's current (and future) clients. Her background is one filled with marketing and operations leadership, backed by a MBA from LSU- Geaux Tigers! Her passions outside of the office include watching hockey and taking a long bath after putting the kids to bed!   If you found this episode helpful, subscribe to Dance Studio 411, leave a review, and share it with fellow studio owners. Let’s spark joy and inspire change together!    Learn More About Membership: https://dancestudioowner.com/podcast

    27 min
  6. Rediscovering Your Passion for Your Dance Studio Business

    12/20/2024

    Rediscovering Your Passion for Your Dance Studio Business

    Episode Summary: Join hosts Suzanne Blake Gerety and Jill Tirone as they discuss practical and heartfelt strategies for overcoming burnout in the dance studio business. They tackle challenges faced by studio owners, share actionable tips, and provide a fresh perspective on rediscovering your passion for dance and leadership. Key Takeaways The Dance Studio Paradox Recognizing Burnout Outgrowing Roles Delegation is Key Leverage Your Superpower Embrace Change Timestamps [00:28] Jill introduces Suzanne and the episode’s focus: overcoming burnout and reigniting your passion. [01:13] Suzanne emphasizes the complexity and beauty of running a dance studio. [02:42] Insights into Suzanne’s dance studio upbringing and her transition to working with Revolution. [04:43] A candid conversation about the prevalence of burnout and how it manifests. [07:42] Burnout solutions from the personal side: Reflective questions for studio owners. [13:16] Tips for outsourcing or delegating draining tasks. [15:20] Practical Tips to Break the Burnout Cycle Resources Mentioned: Three Reflective Questions to Combat Burnout: What tasks, roles, or responsibilities do you love and have a passion for? What tasks do you have to do but aren’t really interested in? What tasks drain your energy, and would you love to eliminate? Access a more comprehensive training on burnout strategies through Dance Studio Owner Membership. Important Reminder: Burnout is a common challenge but also a solvable one. Use these tools, reflect deeply, and reconnect with your passion to create a sustainable path forward. If you found this episode helpful, subscribe to Dance Studio 411, leave a review, and share it with fellow studio owners. Let’s spark joy and inspire change together!    Learn More About Membership: https://dancestudioowner.com/podcast

    19 min
  7. The Gift of Feedback

    11/20/2024

    The Gift of Feedback

    Episode Summary: In this episode of Dance Studio 411, host Jill Tirone welcomes Shanna Kirkpatrick, a veteran dance studio owner with over 19 years of experience, to discuss the value of feedback in running a successful studio. Shanna shares personal insights and strategies on how soliciting and responding to feedback from families, staff, and students has transformed her leadership approach and studio operations. The episode dives into the challenges of receiving feedback, especially for creative professionals, and highlights actionable practices for turning feedback into a powerful growth tool. Key Takeaways: Importance of Feedback: Studio owners benefit significantly from feedback, not only for professional growth but for maintaining a healthy, responsive studio environment. Best Practices for Feedback: Shanna advises creating structured, regular opportunities for feedback, such as using simple Google Forms or initiating casual conversations with parents and staff. Implementing Feedback: Real examples from Shanna’s journey show how to embrace feedback constructively, even during challenging times, and how these conversations can clarify a studio’s vision and values. Leadership Through Feedback: By asking her team for feedback on her own leadership, Shanna builds trust and respect, showing that feedback isn’t just top-down but can be a two-way process that empowers everyone involved. Notable Quotes: "If you want to improve, you need to be tenacious about receiving and sifting through feedback." - Shanna Kirkpatrick "The people closest to you, like your staff, can provide invaluable feedback—use it to better yourself as a leader." - Shanna Kirkpatrick "It’s about listening without defensiveness and using that feedback to craft a studio that aligns with your values and the needs of your community." - Jill Terrone Timestamps: [00:29] - Welcoming Shanna Kirkpatrick [02:13] - Why Feedback is Essential for Growth [04:34] - Asking Staff for Feedback [07:01] - Shanna’s Story: Turning Feedback into Action [10:08] - Using Calendar Reminders to Follow Up on Feedback [11:03] - Closing Thoughts on Intentionality in Leadership Connect with Us: Follow Dance Studio Owner and Revolution on social media for more tips, resources, and inspiration to help you navigate the dance studio world. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform!

    12 min
  8. Recital Choreography Formula

    10/29/2024

    Recital Choreography Formula

    In this episode of Dance Studio 411, host Jill Tirone sits down with the talented Taylor Hiller, Revolution's Channel Brand Manager and seasoned choreographer. Taylor reveals her tried-and-true formula for creating flawless recital choreography. Whether you're a seasoned dance instructor or just starting, Taylor’s insights on curriculum structure, lesson planning, and choreography processes are sure to inspire. Plus, you'll learn her tips for balancing creativity with structure, emphasizing the importance of organization, preparedness, and efficiency in the classroom so your recital performances shine. Key Takeaways: What’s the Formula? Understanding goals and expectations to selecting music and costumes. Class Efficiency = Performance Proficiency: Discover how being organized in class leads to a more confident and polished recital performance. Curriculum, Syllabus, Lesson Plans: Taylor clarifies these key elements and how they help create a cohesive learning experience for students. Choreographic Process: Whether you start with music, movement, or costumes, Taylor’s step-by-step approach will help you map out your choreography with ease. Pro Tip: "Class efficiency equals performance proficiency." Time Stamps: [0:56] Taylor's introduction [2:44] Taylor clarifies the terms curriculum, syllabus, and lesson plans so listeners understand how these three elements work within their studios [5:43] Taylor dives into the importance of arriving to the studio prepared and organized. The more effient we are with our class time, the more profient our performance will be.  [7:36] Taylor disscusses her choreographic formula Resources Mentioned: Revolution Dancewear Taylor's Choreography Formula Template (available through Dance Studio Owner) Connect with Us: Follow Dance Studio Owner and Revolution on social media for more tips, resources, and inspiration to help you navigate the dance studio world. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform!

    13 min
See All (78)

    4.8
    out of 5
    23 Ratings

    About

    Need expert advice on handling dance studio dilemmas and drama? Suzanne Blake Gerety and Jill Tirone take real-life questions directly from our listeners and help you resolve your toughest, most frustrating or just-plain-complicated studio life predicaments. In each episode they tackle the topics that keep you awake at night from how to successfully navigate parent-problems, teacher turnover, student challenges, policy dilemmas, and much more. Join them as they feature innovators who pull back the curtain and offer timely ideas and solutions. We also love to keep things light and have fun along the way! We’re so excited for you to join the conversation.

    Information

    • Creator
      Dance Studio Owner
    • Years Active
      2019 - 2025
    • Episodes
      78
    • Rating
      Clean
    • Show Website
      Dance Studio 411

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