Best Dancestudio Podcasts (2025)

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Retention Isn’t Luck: How to Keep Students Year After Year with Retention Expert Paige Sayegh 39:48

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1d ago39:48

39:48

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 st…

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Transform My Dance Studio: The New Chapter 3:36

6d ago3:36

3:36

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, a…

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The Surprising #1 Reason Employees Quit (And It’s Not Money) with best-selling author Joey Coleman 40:44

8d ago40:44

40:44

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 …

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The Follow-Up Formula: How to Hire Fast & Keep Them Longer with Sharon U 38:13

15d ago38:13

38:13

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 p…

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Burning Questions, Honest Answers: Hiring & Retention Truths From the Trenches 39:04

22d ago39:04

39:04

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 w…

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Stop the Revolving Door: Build a Team That Stays 21:26

29d ago21:26

21:26

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: W…

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Feeling Invisible Online? This Is Why Your Marketing Isn’t Working (Yet) 36:21

1M ago36:21

36:21

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 withou…

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Overwhelmed or Unmotivated? The Truth Behind Why You’re Not Taking Action 48:23

1M ago48:23

48:23

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 …

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47 Minutes To Trust: The New Marketing Strategy Dance Studios Can’t Ignore 15:44

2M ago15:44

15:44

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 polishe…

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The Confidence Myth: Why You’re More Ready Than You Think 36:01

2M ago36:01

36:01

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 act…

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CEO Checklists & Co-Pilots: Your New Self-Care Strategy 28:11

2M ago28:11

28:11

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…

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The Price of Passion: When Studio Owners Stop Paying Themselves 40:11

2M ago40:11

40:11

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 …

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ANSWERED LIVE: Dance Studio Owner Questions You're Too Afraid To Ask 45:04

3M ago45:04

45:04

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 cu…

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You Don't Have To Be A Workhorse To Be Worthy 9:13

3M ago9:13

9:13

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 perspec…

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What You NEED TO KNOW About The Dance Teacher Summit's Return! 33:50

3M ago33:50

33:50

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 …

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Why Smart Studios Are Using Video to Double Their Retention Rates 15:22

3M ago15:22

15:22

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 …

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Interactive Tools That Make Dance Class Their Favorite Hour of the Week 15:29

4M ago15:29

15:29

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 j…

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Plan Dance Classes in Half the Time (Without Losing the Magic) 17:46

4M ago17:46

17:46

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: - H…

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The Studio Admin Fix: 5 Tools That Save You Hours Every Week 17:55

4M ago17:55

17:55

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 communic…

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How to Make Reels at Recital that Get People to Enroll 33:09

4M ago33:09

33:09

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 Ca…

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Effortless Growth: Set It and Forget It 7:59

4M ago7:59

7:59

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 …

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Effortless Growth: Referral Programs That Work 16:09

5M ago16:09

16:09

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…

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Effortless Growth: The Power of Evergreen Content 16:18

5M ago16:18

16:18

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…

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Delegate to Elevate: One-And-Done Resource Creation 18:20

5M ago18:20

18:20

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 h…

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Delegate to Elevate: Studio Management By Proxy 22:08

5M ago22:08

22:08

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 smo…

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Delegate to Elevate: Outsourcing Your Marketing 17:41

6M ago17:41

17:41

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. I…

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600th Episode: SOLD-OUT Summer Camps 47:37

6M ago47:37

47:37

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 Jo…

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Delegate to Elevate: Hiring a VA 15:23

6M ago15:23

15:23

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…

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Mastering Recital Planning: Divide, Conquer, & Shine 16:15

6M ago16:15

16:15

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 …

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Mastering Recital Profit: Cost-Savers & Money-Makers 17:25

7M ago17:25

17:25

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.…

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Mastering Recital Planning: 5-Star Recitals 18:21

7M ago18:21

18:21

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…

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Mastering Recital Planning: Recital 101 17:33

7M ago17:33

17:33

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.By Dance Studio Owners Association

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BONUS: Marketing Mastery in Minutes 1:42:54

7M ago1:42:54

1:42:54

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.By Dance Studio Owners Association

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Workflow & Systems for Streamlined Operations: Effortless Inventory Management 25:03

7M ago25:03

25:03

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 str…

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Workflow & Systems for Streamlined Operations: One-Click Feedback Loops 15:09

8M ago15:09

15:09

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 …

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Workflow & Systems for Streamlined Operations: Master Your Metrics 18:05

8M ago18:05

18:05

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!…

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Workflow & Systems for Streamlined Operations: Automate to Liberate 25:55

8M ago25:55

25:55

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!By Dance Studio Owners Association

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BONUS EPISODE: Top Studio Owner Trends for 2025 36:22

8M ago36:22

36:22

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!By Dance Studio Owners Association

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The Show Must Go On…Or Maybe Not? 27:09

8M ago27:09

27:09

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 mad…

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The 5-Step Process That Will Increase Enrollments Drastically In Your Studio 30:41

8M ago30:41

30:41

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 mad…

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Mistakes To Avoid When Building Your Studio Dream Team! 31:26

9M ago31:26

31:26

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 mad…

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3 Ways To Enhance Studio Communication Through Connection 25:11

9M ago25:11

25:11

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 mad…

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Master the Summer Hustle 19:34

9M ago19:34

19:34

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!By Dance Studio Owners Association

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Future-Proof Your Studio 31:12

9M ago31:12

31:12

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…

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Power Programs for 2025: Your Blueprint for Success 33:36

10M ago33:36

33:36

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 ahea…

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Thriving In 2025: What Should You be Doing NOW to Prepare for the Future? 20:00

10M ago20:00

20:00

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!…

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Reflecting on 2024: What Did We Learn? 16:09

10M ago16:09

16:09

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.…

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Out-Of-The-Box Recital Revenue Ideas 32:16

10M ago32:16

32:16

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 levelBy Dance Studio Owners Association

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Mastering Recital Profit 21:25

11M ago21:25

21:25

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!By Dance Studio Owners Association

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BONUS: Leadership Liberation Pt. 2 17:58

11M ago17:58

17:58

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!By Dance Studio Owners Association