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.

Transform My Dance Studio

Our 5 Biggest Lessons From 20 Years In Business

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.

From 2-Teacher Hobby Business To Thriving Studio In One Year

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.

3 Simple Tips For Uniting Your Studio Family

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.

The 5 Ingredient Recipe For Your Win-Win Studio

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:

1. How Candace consistently comes up with innovative new concepts and ideas (even knowing that some of them won't be successful)
2. What qualities Candace possesses as an entrepreneur that has fueled her continued success
3. 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.

Turn Your Passion Into a Profitable Business with Sprinkles Founder Candace Nelson

www.clintsalter.com
Sometimes we can get a little stuck in our business. Maybe we need to make an important decision or maybe we're facing a hurdle and we're unsure how to move through it. Actually, whom am I kidding... as a business owner we are continually faced with these challenges on a daily basis. 

Find me on Facebook www.facebook.com/clintsalterinternational.

Get In The Arena - 30 April 2014

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

Everyone's Favorite...Conflict Resolution

In this interview with Clint Salter from The Success Assembly Podcast, Christina Guidotti shares her tips for success in life and business.

How To Have It All With Christina Guidotti - The Success Assembly Podcast

If your a studio owner with problem parents. This audio clip is for you! 

Dealing With Annoying Parents In Your Dance 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!

Keep the Beat: The Little Things Go a Long Way

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

Tech Tango: Embracing New Technologies

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.

Delegate to Elevate: Studio Management By Proxy

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.

Effortless Growth: Referral Programs That Work

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!

Effortless Growth: Set It and Forget It

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 Jean Marie Branch 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

How to Make Reels at Recital that Get People to Enroll

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

The Studio Admin Fix: 5 Tools That Save You Hours Every Week

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

Why Smart Studios Are Using Video to Double Their Retention Rates

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.

What You NEED TO KNOW About The Dance Teacher Summit's Return!

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

You Don't Have To Be A Workhorse To Be Worthy

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

ANSWERED LIVE: Dance Studio Owner Questions You're Too Afraid To Ask

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

The Price of Passion: When Studio Owners Stop Paying Themselves

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.

CEO Checklists & Co-Pilots: Your New Self-Care Strategy

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.

The Confidence Myth: Why You’re More Ready Than You Think

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.

47 Minutes To Trust: The New Marketing Strategy Dance Studios Can’t Ignore

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.

Overwhelmed or Unmotivated? The Truth Behind Why You’re Not Taking Action

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.

Feeling Invisible Online? This Is Why Your Marketing Isn’t Working (Yet)

Our guest today is Yong Pratt, the Owner of Elko Academy of the Arts, which is based in Nevada. Her studio started 14 years ago as a dance studio and they now offer classes in music, karate, and acro giving parents a one stop shop for children activities. Her and I first connected last year when she became a member of the Studio Success Formula program and I knew I just had to get her on the show as she’s very interactive and helpful to other studio owners in our community. 

Clint Salter Interviews Yong Pratt

Join Clint as he chats with America's Intuition coach, Joanna Garzilli. Joanna knows the industry from the inside out, and shares her tips on really harnessing your intuition to generate outstanding results for you and your studio. 

Harnessing Your Intuition To Generate Outstanding Results

Marisa Peer is a best-selling author who teaches simple steps that produce life-changing results. Her knockout advice is peppered with funny and anecdotal advice which reveals her #1 rule – that all of our emotional and personal problems are rooted in a belief that we are “not good enough”. She expertly delivers advice on overcoming this with tremendous and dramatic results.

You Are Enough - A Conversation with Marisa Peer

Are you of of the many Studio Owners who are missing Clint's #1 website inclusion that will get students through the door? This episode is your opportunity to evaluate your website and ensure that you get people engaged right from the moment they enter. 

#1 Student Lead Generating Tool

Join Clint today as he shows you what kind of studio owner you currently are, and more importantly, the crucial steps for you in becoming a 'transformer' in this industry. 

4 Types Of Studio Owners - Which One Are You?

Jump on in, as Angela and Jodi share their hottest tips when it comes to planning and executing extraordinary summer camps in their studios. You'll get a rare sneak peek into the planning, themes, structure and logistics of Summer camps that your students (and your bank balance) will rave about.

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