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

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

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

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

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!

BONUS EPISODE: Top Studio Owner Trends for 2025

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 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)

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

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?

We all know that taking time to create solid plans for your studio is crucial in pathing a successful way in business - but sometimes it can be so easy to fall into the habit of making plan after plan, and as incredible as those plans may be, they are lacking the most important step - implementation. That’s where today’s guest is ready to step in and get studio owners to TAKE ACTION! 

Ben Fewtrell is an Action Coach who is passionate about coaching business owners to taking action, achieving their goals and claiming their lives back - exactly what we aim to do in the Dance Studio Owners Association every day.

Like many of our listeners, Ben started his own business at a young age (18 to be precise). He spent the following 3 years working long hours as an owner driver. By 24, Ben had grown his own transport company to such success that he decided to sell the business in order to become a business coach and pursue his passion- “The business of business.” Since then, Ben has built on his vast experience and expertise to build up a coaching business which now stands as the largest and most successful ActionCOACH firm in the world.

In This Podcast 


Ben joins Clint to tackle some of the biggest roadblocks that are holding studio owners back from taking action and reaching their business potential. You’ll love Clint and Ben’s take on:

Harnessing your inner salesperson and overcoming your fear of sounding too ‘pushy’ in putting across your studio’s purpose and promise
Increasing your foot traffic and sales in an increasingly digital marketplace
Building a smart marketing plan that you can actually  put into action!
Ben’s unbeatable system for creating a retail model that works while you aren’t there, giving you your life back

Plus you can head to www.dancestudioownersassociation.com to access Ben’s FREE ebook for our listeners!

Plus loads more!

Share the ‘Transform My Dance Studio’ love and Get in Touch!

Thanks for listening to today’s podcast - we’d love to hear your feedback so please check out our facebook page where you can leave your reviews and ask any questions about today’s episode.

Don’t forget to share this podcast with your Dance Studio Owner friends and colleagues!

For more on today’s guest, make sure to head to www.actioncoach.com/benfewtrell

About Us
The Dance Studio Owners Association is for studio owners who are ready to commit to building their dream studio through taking consistent action while accepting guidance and advice. It’s for new studio owners and experienced studio owners alike. No matter what stage you’re at in your business, you’ll gain valuable information to take your studio to new levels while becoming a go to studio in your area.

DSOA members also have exclusive access to some of the greatest minds in business through our expert masterclasses, one-on-one mentoring through our member makeover experience, and a monthly Q&A session that directly answers all your pressing questions about being a Studio Owner.  

Our association is a community. It’s a community of dance studio owners who have seen what Clint has not only produced with his own studio, but his Studio Owner clients and program members over 6 years. They’ve seen the results and they want to be a part of the action!

For more on the Dance Studio Owners Association check out our website at www.dancestudioownersassociation.com or visit our Facebook page

See you next week for another value-packed episode!

Enough Planning - Now It's Time To Take Action & Grow Your Studio, With Ben Fewtrell

Today's guest is founder of Acrobatique AcroDance, Melissa Klassen. Melissa has extensive experience creating new programs from the ground up for dance studios around the world, and has helped Studio Owners, teachers and students from across the globe to perfect their mental game.

The Top 5 Things You Can Do to Level Up Your Mental Game Featuring Melissa Klassen

We all know how impactful a positive customer experience can be, but are we doing the best we can to think outside of the box to ensure everyone who walks through our studio doors is walking away impressed and ready to refer their friends? In today's podcast you will hear from the best in the business when it comes to customer service and learn how your studio can leave an etraordinary impression even when you aren't there.

Perfecting The Customer Experience In Your Studio

Revisit Clint's standout interviews with Mauricio Escobar, Paul Ramondo, Sue B. Zimmerman and Kylie Bartlet for their hidden gems in the land of social media.

The Best Of - Social Media

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.

Changing The Lives Of Your Dancers With Kim McSwain

Nathan and Amanda Barr join Clint to share their best-kept secrets for running a successful studio without having to sacrifice the experiences and quality time they always dreamed of sharing with their family.

Living The Dance Studio Dream! With Nathan and Amanda Barr

Welcome to the ‘Transform My Dance Studio’ podcast, powered by the Dance Studio Owners Association. 

Over the next eight weeks we are thrilled to be welcoming the one and only Hillary Parnell as our guest host for a brand new series: Plies To Profits!

Hillary is the owner of Academy For The Performing Arts in North Carolina, and this very special series will give you an inside-look into how Hillary has grown her dance studio as she shares her tips on building a million-dollar dance studio. 

In this season Hillary will be diving into: How she delegates tasks effectively; her ‘Less But Better’ philosophy; How to bring in more revenue with less output; building community in your studio and so much more!

Delegating Better & Getting More Done

Your studio questions are answered as Clint tackles your biggest challenges and concerns about the impact of COVID-19 on your dance studio's future.

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