Rhee Gold's DanceLife

Roar Success Network
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Rhee Gold is passionate about dance education and the business of teaching dance. He is a pioneer in the field, launching the first business (and motivational) seminar for dance teachers in the mid-90s and is now the director of the DanceLife Teacher Conference and the DanceLife Retreat Center attracting hundreds of teachers and studio owners from around the world. Gold’s mission is to inspire dance people to appreciate the gift that dance offers all who experience it. He encourages teachers to be unique, make their own mark on the field and to have the confidence to follow the path that best suits their goals for success. His entrepreneurial and leadership skills have had a long-lasting impact on the dance community, he is the author of the Complete Guide to Teaching Dance, served as the publisher of Dance Studio Life magazine for 14 years and has served as the President of Dance Masters of America, the United Dance Merchants of America, the founding co-chair of UNITY and is now the Director of the International Dance Entrepreneurs Association, also known as I.D.E.A. When given the chance to “talk dance,” Rhee is all about it and that’s what this podcast is all about. We’ll crisscross everything about teaching dance from business to classroom success and we’ll definitely hit on the heart and soul of what being a dance teacher is all about.

  1. 1D AGO

    Work Smarter, Not Harder: Systems, Camps & Profit with Jackrabbit Dance

    In this special episode of Rhee Gold’s Dance Life Podcast, Stacey Morgan and Rhee Gold welcome their first-ever guests to the show after more than seven years of hosting together. Joining them behind the microphone are Molly Stroud and Jayme Bell from Jackrabbit Dance, the long-time sponsor of the podcast. Together, they unpack what studio owners are facing right now — and how smart systems can bring more ease, clarity, and profit back into studio life. In this episode, you’ll hear: Why studio owners are still feeling the ripple effects of post-pandemic enrollment shifts, and what parents now want from commitments How Jackrabbit Dance’s Client Success team supports studio owners through low enrollment seasons by listening first, then building practical solutions Why the dance industry has proven especially adaptable — the “show must go on” energy, innovation, and fast pivots The features that can save time immediately, including: Online registration and parent portal access Automated billing and payment processing (so you’re not chasing money) Better website-to-registration workflows Centralised communication through Jackrabbit Plus (branded app, groups, push notifications) Resources tabs for costumes, hair, videos, and quick answers parents actually use What’s “hot” right now for summer programming — including the rise of more flexible, creative camps (and why studios should experiment) A look at Jackrabbit Camps, including policies, deposits, session selection, and ongoing product updates based on real studio timelines A powerful studio-owner money conversation: why too many discounts can quietly drain profitability — and how studio owners can stop “discounting themselves out of business” The mindset shift studio owners need: it’s okay to run a studio that makes a good profit, pays you well, and supports your future This episode is equal parts practical and energising — a reminder that dance studio owners don’t start businesses to do admin all day. With the right systems and support, you can reclaim time, improve customer experience, and build a studio that truly serves your life. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    45 min

  2. FEB 15

    From Project Motivate to Dance Life: 30 Years of Growth, Grit & Community

    In this episode, Stacey Morgan and Rhee Gold reflect on the evolution of the Dance Life Teacher Conference as it celebrates its 30th anniversary — and what its journey reveals about leadership, vulnerability, and the power of community in dance education. Rhee shares the early beginnings of the conference (then called Project Motivate), when only a handful of studio owners were willing to attend business-focused training. From starting with 20 attendees, dropping to six, and then growing into a global movement, the conversation highlights how persistence, belief in purpose, and honest connection built something far bigger than a seminar. Together, Stacey and Rhee explore: Why studio owners once resisted business education How vulnerability and shared struggle changed studio culture The shift from competition to collaboration Why “blinders on” is still the best mindset for studio owners How community fuels confidence, growth, and leadership The long-term impact of training teachers alongside owners They also dive into what’s new at the upcoming Dance Life Teacher Conference, including: Leadership and management training Hiring for culture (not convenience) Mid-year retention strategies Studio size “Owner’s Huddles” Expanded movement offerings including ballroom and dance on camera Stronger pathways for faculty development This episode is a reminder that success doesn’t come from copying the studio down the street — it comes from knowing your purpose, investing in your people, and staying focused on your own vision. Whether you’re a new studio owner or a seasoned leader, this conversation will leave you inspired to stop looking sideways, start building forward, and reconnect with the passion that brought you into the studio in the first place. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    33 min

  3. FEB 3

    What are you avoiding?

    In this episode, Stacey Morgan and Rhee Gold kick off the new year by tackling a topic every dance studio owner and teacher knows too well: procrastination. As studios return to full swing and workloads ramp up, Stacey and Rhee explore why we put important tasks off — especially the big ones that feel overwhelming or uncertain. They unpack how pressure can sometimes spark creativity, but also how constant delay leads to unnecessary stress. Together, they share practical tools to help studio owners move forward with confidence, including: Using a brain dump to clear mental clutter Separating personal and business tasks Prioritising what truly matters Breaking large projects into manageable action steps Creating better file systems and organisation habits Rewarding progress to build momentum They also discuss how leadership styles, preparation habits, and different working personalities impact productivity — and why perfectionism, self-doubt, and decision fatigue often sit at the heart of procrastination. Whether you’re avoiding your timetable, recital order, marketing plan, or newsletter, this episode offers encouragement and realistic strategies to help you stop putting things off and start moving forward. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    32 min

  4. JAN 4

    Rugged Up & Ready: Clear Communication, Calm Customers, and Enjoying the Journey

    Welcome to Rhee Gold’s Dance Life Podcast, hosted by Stacey Morgan and joined by the fabulous (and very “rugged up”) Rhee Gold—broadcasting from a freezing North Carolina cold snap that has him bundled up and learning new Aussie vocabulary fast. In this practical and timely episode, Stacey and Rhee dive into one of the biggest make-or-break skills for dance studio owners: clear communication. They unpack why miscommunication happens so easily—especially when you’re busy, juggling timetables, rehearsals, one-on-ones, and parent expectations—and how “dance language” can accidentally leave families confused. Stacey shares a real studio example of a small timetable change that created big frustration, and how she handled it: owning the mistake, apologising, and then following up about respectful behaviour and boundaries. Rhee opens up about a recent moment where his intention didn’t land the way he meant it to—and why sometimes the best path forward is a sincere apology rather than defending or over-explaining. Together, they explore the reality of 2025 customer expectations: parents are busy, life is full, and confusion creates cranky customers—even when you’ve communicated multiple times. You’ll also hear: Why an apology isn’t always “enough” when a parent has a backlog of unresolved grievances How creating structured feedback pathways can prevent blow-ups later Why studio communication must be multi-channel (email, socials, newsletters, in-hand notes, reminders… all of it) When using ChatGPT can help remove emotion from tough emails—while still keeping your voice How the post-pandemic world has gotten even busier, and why that impacts both studio owners and families A reminder that personal growth is part of entrepreneurship—and learning communication is part of the journey This episode is your encouragement (and your challenge) to build communication systems that are robust, consistent, and two-way—so you can reduce misunderstandings, protect your team, and keep your studio culture strong. Because when communication improves, stress reduces… and everyone gets to enjoy the journey. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    31 min

  5. 12/21/2025

    Happy Holidays from Rhee & Stacey!

    In this special holiday episode of Rhee Gold’s DanceLife Podcast, Rhee Gold and Stacey Morgan slow things down to reflect on the year that was — and the memories that truly matter. From unforgettable career highlights (including tap dancing with Hugh Jackman!) to meaningful moments at events like Dancers Against Cancer, Rhee and Stacey share what stood out most over the past 12 months and why taking time to reflect is just as important as moving forward. The conversation weaves through holiday traditions, travel plans, family time, and the realities of being a dance studio owner who is always “on.” Stacey opens up about why the beach is her place to reset and simply be herself, while Rhee shares his love of long drives, country music, and heading home for Christmas — plus a few confessions about snooping for presents as a kid. They also talk downtime (or the lack of it), background noise vs. music, Netflix habits, and yes… Ted Lasso makes another appearance. Most importantly, this episode is a reminder to pause, breathe, and truly enjoy the journey — especially during the holidays. It’s about creating lifetime memories, embracing fresh starts, and giving yourself permission to rest before the new year begins. ✨ Whether you’re a dance teacher, studio owner, or simply someone who needs permission to slow down, this episode is your invitation to reflect, reset, and move into the new year with gratitude and intention. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    20 min

  6. 11/16/2025

    Rest Is Not a Reward — Reclaiming Your Time, Values & Sanity

    Do you ever feel like you're stuck in the loop of always being busy? Like rest is something you’ll earn “one day” when you’ve ticked off every last task? In this honest, warm, and wonderfully real episode, Stacey Morgan and Rhee Gold explore the dopamine-driven habits we all fall into—especially as studio owners—and how we can rewire our routines to prioritise what really matters. From addiction to Instagram scrolling, to running ourselves ragged trying to “do it all,” Stacey and Rhee talk about: ✨ The impact of our phone habits on productivity, presence, and parenting ✨ How rest (yes, actual rest!) became one of Stacey’s core values ✨ What you might be missing when you constantly chase “the next thing” ✨ Rhee’s insights on the joy of doing nothing, and the guilt that sometimes comes with it ✨ The truth about studio ownership: the hamster wheel, the pressure, and the need to pause ✨ Practical ways to realign your time with your values—and lead by example If you've been craving space, clarity, and permission to slow down, this is your sign. Because rest isn’t a reward for working hard—it’s the fuel you need to keep showing up for the things you care about most. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    33 min

  7. 11/02/2025

    Support you desire & the Investment you won't regret

    This episode is a heartfelt, honest, conversation between Stacey Morgan and Rhee Gold, all about the real work of running a successful dance studio and living a life you love. From the launch of Gold Alliance to growing the next generation of confident, profitable, and legacy-led studio owners, Stacey and Rhee dive into the evolution of this flagship program—and the mindset shifts needed to build something sustainable and joyful. You’ll hear: ✨ How Gold Alliance evolved from a pandemic support hub to a powerhouse leadership group ✨ Why creating space, rest, and freedom for studio owners is no longer optional—it’s essential ✨ The difference between hustle for hustle’s sake… and building systems that give you back your life ✨ How “moms” (or “mums”!) can be your biggest allies—if you lead with clarity and confidence ✨ Real talk on money, boundaries, marketing, and letting go of the wrong-fit clients ✨ A behind-the-scenes look at Gold Alliance 2.0 and how it’s creating powerful pathways for newer studio owners This episode is packed with encouragement for anyone who’s ever wondered: Can I do this differently? Can I actually create a business that works for me, not just because of me? The answer: YES. You can learn more about the Gold Alliance at rheegold.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    35 min

  8. 09/29/2025

    Flexibility, Family, and the Future: Evolving Your Studio for 2025

    In this episode of Rhee Gold's DanceLife podcast, Stacey Morgan and Rhee Gold dive into how dance studio owners can (and must!) evolve with the changing needs of today’s families and dancers. From rethinking class times to better suit working parents, to embracing the rise of homeschool programs and redefining what a "competitive" program looks like—this episode is packed with insights to help you thrive in 2025 and beyond. They explore: Why 5:30 PM is the new 10:00 AM for preschool classes How homeschool movement programs are replacing traditional daytime classes The importance of offering “middle ground” training options between rec and comp Why parents are pushing back on overcommitted competition schedules Creative ways to use your studio during downtime (and keep it profitable!) Community engagement as a meaningful part of your studio's performance culture Letting go of ego and redefining what “success” really looks like 💡 Whether you’re restructuring your programs or just looking to stay ahead of the curve, this is one you won’t want to miss! Links & Resources: Learn more about our sponsor: Jackrabbit Dance Get studio growth benchmarks: jackrabbitdance.com/benchmarks Connect with Stacey: simplystaceymorgan.com Join the Dance Life community: golddancelife.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    34 min
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5
out of 5
91 Ratings

About

Rhee Gold is passionate about dance education and the business of teaching dance. He is a pioneer in the field, launching the first business (and motivational) seminar for dance teachers in the mid-90s and is now the director of the DanceLife Teacher Conference and the DanceLife Retreat Center attracting hundreds of teachers and studio owners from around the world. Gold’s mission is to inspire dance people to appreciate the gift that dance offers all who experience it. He encourages teachers to be unique, make their own mark on the field and to have the confidence to follow the path that best suits their goals for success. His entrepreneurial and leadership skills have had a long-lasting impact on the dance community, he is the author of the Complete Guide to Teaching Dance, served as the publisher of Dance Studio Life magazine for 14 years and has served as the President of Dance Masters of America, the United Dance Merchants of America, the founding co-chair of UNITY and is now the Director of the International Dance Entrepreneurs Association, also known as I.D.E.A. When given the chance to “talk dance,” Rhee is all about it and that’s what this podcast is all about. We’ll crisscross everything about teaching dance from business to classroom success and we’ll definitely hit on the heart and soul of what being a dance teacher is all about.

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