The Child Care Bridge is a source for the best tips, tools, tactics on how to market and grow your child care center ensuring total domination.
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Michael Tasner Podcasts
Welcome to "Dream 100 Show" the podcast that dives deep into the revolutionary Dream 100 concept that's transforming the world of marketing and relationship building. Whether you're an entrepreneur, marketer, or simply someone fascinated by smart strategies, this show is your ultimate guide.
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🎙️ Welcome to Step Up Your Studio – the essential podcast for passionate dance studio owners and dance teachers ready to grow, thrive, and make a lasting impact. Hosted by industry veterans Steve Sirico and Angela D’Valda Sirico, this show delivers practical strategies, inspirational insights, and expert interviews to help elevate every aspect of your studio—from reputation and profitability to leadership and community outreach. Whether you're looking for marketing tips, studio management so ...
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Episode 012: Dance Studios Reimagined: Marketing Breakthroughs with Michael Tasner
35:52
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35:52In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, Steve welcomes Michael Tasner, founder of the Parent Marketing Group and longtime supporter of businesses that serve families and children. With two daughters in dance and two decades in marketing, Michael dives deep into what it takes for dance studio owners to grow, retain students, and stand out in today’s…
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Episode 017: Purposeful Choreography & Growth Lessons with Jessica Stafford
40:51
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40:51In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, we're joined by the incredibly accomplished Jessica Stafford—dancer, educator, choreographer, and founder of Rebel Wellness. Jessica shares her journey from performing in West Side Story and Guys and Dolls to becoming a transformative educator who guides dancers with purpose and authenticity. You’ll hear abou…
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Episode 094: Where Is Your Marketing Money Really Going?
17:44
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17:44In this episode of The Dream 100 Show, host Michael dives into one of the most overlooked but crucial topics in marketing—attribution. After a powerful conversation with a major public company, he shares insights that can transform how small businesses allocate their marketing budget. From understanding first-in and last-in touchpoints to leveragin…
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Episode 099: How Smart Budget Allocation Transforms Childcare Enrollment and Revenue
14:25
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14:25In this episode of The Childcare Bridge, host Michael dives into one of the most overlooked challenges facing childcare centers today: ineffective marketing budget allocation. With over a decade of hands-on experience helping centers grow, he shares hard truths about why most centers aren’t investing enough—or in the right places—to generate real e…
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Episode 016: Creating Unforgettable Studio Experiences with 42nd Street Tours
30:58
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30:58In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, Steve sits down with Jason New, JJ, and Emilee from 42nd Street Tours, a company dedicated to creating customized, memory-making travel experiences for dance studios. With destinations like New York City, Disney, Hawaii, Nashville, cruises, and more, they offer performance opportunities, workshops, and built-…
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Episode 015: Building Purpose into Performance with Noah Lands
31:23
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31:23In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, we sit down with Noah Lands — founder and CEO of KAR Productions, the powerhouse behind some of the industry's most recognized dance competitions and conventions. Noah shares how his team runs over 170 live events a year, what it takes to maintain fairness in judging, and how they're setting new standards for…
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Episode 093: Can You Really Grow a Business Without a Marketing Budget?
14:31
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14:31In this episode of The Dream 100 Show, Michael Tasner tackles one of the most common and critical questions in entrepreneurship: Can you market your business with no budget at all? The answer? It’s not black and white. Michael dives deep into the harsh realities of small business failure, the non-negotiable role of marketing in customer acquisition…
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Episode 098: The Hidden Advantage Successful Centers Leverage During Downtime
17:23
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17:23In this episode of The Childcare Bridge, host Michael unpacks why the quiet season is your biggest opportunity to sharpen your edge, and what most centers overlook when preparing for the busy months ahead. Instead of coasting through the lull, top-performing childcare leaders focus on one unglamorous, but transformative area that impacts every deci…
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Episode 014: The Hidden Risks of Flexibility: Hypermobility in Dancers with Dr. Linda Bluestein
38:51
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38:51In this insightful episode of Step Up Your Studio, we're joined by Dr. Linda Bluestein, a physician, former dancer, and one of the nation’s top experts on hypermobility and connective tissue disorders in performing artists. If you’ve ever had students who are "too flexible" or struggle with recurring injuries, this is a must-listen. Dr. Bluestein b…
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Episode 013: Richard Hinds on Building a Career in Dance, Choreography & Direction
24:06
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24:06In this inspiring episode of Step Up Your Studio, host Angela sits down with acclaimed director, choreographer, and movement director Richard Hinds, whose work spans Broadway, the West End, and international stages. From his early days growing up in the studio to choreographing productions, Richard shares invaluable insights on: How to prepare youn…
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Episode 092: This Is What High-Level Entrepreneurs Are Doing With AI—And You’re Not
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17:02In this episode of the Dream 100 podcast, host Michael reveals how he's going all-in on AI—sharing an unfiltered, behind-the-scenes look at how he's integrating artificial intelligence across his businesses, teams, and daily operations. From AI-powered prospecting to full-scale automation inside the Dream 100 framework, Michael unpacks why now is t…
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Episode 097: You’re Losing Enrollments and Profits Because of This One Decision
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15:05In this episode of The Childcare Bridge, Michael dives into one of the most common — and costly — questions he gets from childcare center owners: “When should I start marketing?” Drawing on over a decade of experience helping hundreds of centers grow, Michael reveals why waiting to market could be the biggest mistake you’re making. Whether you're g…
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Episode 011: Behind the Curtain: How to Simplify Recital Season with Brandy Vickers
26:04
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26:04In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, we sit down with Brandy Vickers, longtime dance industry expert and Sales Manager at TutuTix, to talk all things recital prep. With over four decades of dance experience and a background in education, Brandy shares actionable tips on how studio owners can reduce stress, streamline ticketing, increase profits,…
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Episode 091: Turning Strategic Gifting into Powerful Business Relationships
19:27
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19:27In this episode of The Dream 100 Show, host Michael dives deep into the art of crafting unforgettable, highly personalized gifts that spark real relationships with your Dream 100. Drawing from both personal experience and student success stories, he shares how strategic gifting—when done right—can break through noise, build meaningful connections, …
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Episode 096: Fall Enrollment Hacks the Successful Childcare Centers Swear By
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17:40In this episode of the Childcare Bridge, host Michael delivers a rapid-fire lineup of cutting-edge tools, tactics, and AI-powered hacks designed to help childcare centers dominate the critical August–September enrollment window. From doubling down on ad spend when everyone else is pulling back to crafting “million-dollar” tour scripts, from buildin…
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Episode 010: Studio to Spotlight: The Harlequin Floors Story with Steve Gough & Chrissy Ott Richter
21:09
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21:09In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, we're joined by Steve Gough, General Manager at Harlequin Floors, and Chrissy Ott Richter, Director of Marketing and Communications. Together, they share Harlequin’s journey from a small California startup to an internationally trusted name in dance flooring. We explore: Harlequin’s mission to promote dancer …
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Episode 009: How Misty Lown & Mandy Yip Are Shaping the Future of Dance Education
39:59
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39:59In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, we’re joined by two industry legends: Misty Lown, founder of More Than Just Great Dancing, and Mandy Yip, founder of Acrobatic Arts. Together, they share the highs and hurdles of building internationally recognized dance education brands, their inspiring journeys through entrepreneurship, and how they’re now …
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Episode 090: The #1 Reason People Don’t Buy from You — And How to Fix It
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17:17There’s one critical reason why people don’t buy from your business — and it’s not what most marketers or sales pros think. In this episode of Dream 100 Show, Michael Tasner reveals the most overlooked concept in sales and marketing: frames — and how being in the wrong one can sabotage even the best pitch. You’ll learn: Why most buyers are mentally…
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Episode 095: How Smart Childcare Owners Are Future-Proofing Their Businesses
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18:16In this episode of The Childcare Bridge, host Michael explores a rising issue that’s quietly threatening the success of childcare centers across the country—resistance to investing in marketing. As fall enrollment season approaches, many center owners are still holding on to outdated mindsets that no longer work in today’s competitive landscape. Fr…
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Episode 008: From Studio Floors to Social Scores: Marissa Powers’ Rise in Dance & Digital
25:33
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25:33In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, host Steve sits down with powerhouse dance educator and social media sensation Marissa Powers. From her early days at a small studio in Massachusetts to choreographing for NYU and teaching across NYC, Marissa shares how she built a dance brand that now inspires over 100K followers across TikTok and Instagram.…
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Episode 007: How Power Duo Renee and Jason Are Revolutionizing the Dance Trade Show Scene
28:23
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28:23In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, we sit down with industry veterans Renee Stojec of A Wish Come True and Jason Neuwirth. of 42nd Street Tours to discuss the launch of their exciting new venture: Dance NYC. Learn how their years of experience and collaboration led to the creation of this one-of-a-kind event, featuring exclusive liquidation de…
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Episode 089: Why Brand Is the Last Competitive Edge in an AI World
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15:20With AI disrupting nearly every corner of business—from content creation to customer service—the playing field is getting more crowded, faster, and noisier than ever. But there’s one powerful moat that AI can’t replace: your brand. In this episode of The Dream 100 Show, Michael Tasner goes deep into why brand equity is your ultimate differentiator …
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Episode 094: Smart Childcare Owners Are Doubling Down on This Irreplaceable Asset
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15:43In this episode of Childcare Bridge, host Michael dives into a crucial concept that every childcare business owner needs to understand in today’s AI-driven landscape: the one element of your center that artificial intelligence can never replace — your brand. While many centers are adopting AI for efficiency, automation, and scale, Michael breaks do…
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Episode 006: Dance Competition Edge: Expert Advice from Courtney Ortiz
38:34
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38:34In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, Steve welcomes the dynamic Courtney Ortiz — professional dancer, seasoned competition judge, educator, and host of Making the Impact – A Dance Competition Podcast. Courtney shares her incredible journey from Broadway to adjudication, dives into current trends in the competitive dance world, and offers actiona…
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Episode 005: From Basement to Thriving Studio: Jamie Adams' Growth Journey
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23:55In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, we sit down with Jamie Adams, founder of Gotta Dance in Eagle Mountain, Utah. Jamie shares her incredible 18-year journey—starting a dance studio in her basement and growing it into a thriving, state-of-the-art facility that now serves as a cultural hub for her entire community. Whether you're just starting y…
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Episode 088: What If You Could Completely Replace Your Bookkeeper with AI?
17:28
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17:28In this episode of The Dream 100 Show, Michael Tasner explores a game-changing question: What if you could fully replace your bookkeeper with AI? While the Dream 100 method is rooted in building ideal partnerships and driving business through marketing, Michael dives into the often-overlooked (and let's be honest, boring) area of accounting and boo…
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Episode 093: AI Is Quietly Replacing Bookkeepers in Childcare Centers—Are You Ready?
18:31
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18:31In this episode of The Childcare Bridge, host Michael explores how artificial intelligence is quietly transforming the financial backbone of childcare centers. With most centers barely scratching the surface of AI's potential, this episode dives deep into real-world applications—automating bookkeeping, uncovering missed deductions, streamlining tax…
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Episode 004: Studio Success Starts with Branding: Insights from Weissman Experts
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30:13In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, we sit down with Claudia Reed (SVP of Sales) and Lorianne Hagen (Senior Sales Manager) from Weissman—one of the most trusted names in dance wear and costuming for over 65 years. Together with hosts Steve and Angie, we explore what it truly means to build a studio brand that resonates—from your logo and commun…
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Episode 087: Back to the Basics – AI & Marketing 101 for Entrepreneurs
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13:59In this week’s episode of The Dream 100 Show, Michael Tasner takes you back to the basics—AI & Marketing 101—and explains why most entrepreneurs are skipping the foundational steps that actually drive results. If you’re overwhelmed by shiny new AI tools and unsure where to start, this episode is your reset button. Why most marketers are chasing tre…
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Episode 092: Childcare Breakthrough That Will Skyrocket Your Enrollment
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16:59In this week’s episode of Childcare Bridge, host Michael Tasner delivers game-changing insights on leveraging AI to revolutionize childcare marketing. Listeners will discover proven strategies to streamline operations, boost engagement, and grow enrollment—all while investing less time and money. Perfect for childcare center owners seeking a compet…
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Episode 003: Audition Like a Pro: Tips from Broadway’s Ashley Andrews
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32:05In this powerful episode of Step Up Your Studio, we’re joined by the incredible Ashley Andrews - Broadway choreographer, performer, and creative leader behind major productions like King Kong, Diana, Jesus Christ Superstar, and Sunset Boulevard. Ashley brings decades of industry experience and unfiltered advice for aspiring performers, studio owner…
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Episode 091: AI Is Reshaping Business — Will Your Childcare Center Survive It?
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17:11In this episode of the Childcare Bridge, host Michael Tasner dives into a transformative conversation that will leave center owners rethinking everything they think they know about growth, staffing, and the future of their businesses. This episode kicks off a no-fluff, eye-opening series on the AI revolution—what it means for childcare, why ignorin…
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Episode 086: AI Is Moving Fast — Is Your Business Moving With It?
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15:49In this eye-opening episode of the Dream 100 Show, Michael Tasner shares why AI isn’t just a future disruptor—it’s already rewriting the rules of business today. From marketing to HR, bookkeeping to strategy, no industry is safe from the wave of transformation. Michael breaks down what every entrepreneur must do immediately to stay relevant and out…
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Episode 002: From Studio Owner to Mentor: Julie Kay’s Secrets to Building a Thriving Dance Studio Team
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26:26In this inspiring episode of Step Up Your Studio, we welcome the incredible Julie Kay Stallcup, a beloved veteran of the dance education world and longtime friend of Dance Teacher Web. Julie shares her journey from building one of the most successful studios in California - Revolution Dance Center with over 1,300 students and 30+ employees - to tra…
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Step Up Your Studio is the go-to podcast for dance studio owners and teachers ready to grow, thrive, and lead with impact. Hosts Steve Sirico and Angela D’Valda Sirico share actionable tips, expert interviews, and real-world strategies on marketing, leadership, teaching, and more — all to help elevate your studio to new heights.…
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Episode 085: Kickstarting Explosive Growth in 5 Days with These Strategies
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16:07In this episode of The Dream 100 Show, Michael dives into practical steps to kickstart business growth in just three to five days. Learn how to leverage small wins, build relationships, and deploy rapid, impactful strategies that can move the needle quickly—even if your business isn't off to the best start. Whether you're in e-commerce, retail, or …
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Episode 090: Brand Like a Franchise, Win Like a Giant
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16:09In this episode of The Childcare Bridge, Michael dives deep into the importance of branding for childcare centers. Discover why having a unique, recognizable brand is essential for standing out in a crowded market. Michael shares insights on how to create a strong brand identity, the importance of choosing the right name, and how to leverage local …
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Episode 084: The Strategy Smart Entrepreneurs Are Betting On in 2025
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16:32Most people think they’ve already mastered AI just because they’ve dabbled with a few prompts—but in this episode of The Dream 100 Show, Michael Tasner pulls back the curtain on how the real power players are building entire data ecosystems inside a tool everyone already knows. This isn’t about which AI is flashiest—it’s about how you leverage what…
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Episode 089: Why Raising Your Tuition Might Be the Best Move You Make
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15:51In this episode of The Childcare Bridge, host Michael Tasner peels back the curtain on the real reasons families say "yes" to premium-priced childcare centers. It’s not just about tuition—it's about perception, positioning, and powerfully owning your value. If you're a childcare center owner tired of the price objection holding you back, this is th…
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Episode 083: Why Trying to Save Money Could Be Your Most Expensive Mistake Yet
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14:36In this episode of the Dream 100 Show, Michael breaks down when it’s actually more costly to keep your marketing in-house and why investing in the right experts can save you time, money, and frustration. Dive into the scarcity versus abundance mindset and learn why you need to stop focusing on "how" and start focusing on "who." Michael shares candi…
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Episode 088: Is In-House Marketing Really the Right Choice for Your Childcare Center?
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18:03In this episode of the Childcare Bridge, Michael Tasner dives into the common dilemma faced by childcare center owners: When does it make sense to bring marketing in-house, and when is it better to partner with an agency? With the rise of AI tools and a growing sense of uncertainty in the market, Michael tackles the crucial decision-making process …
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Episode 082: Why Most Marketers Fail to Deliver Results and How You Can Avoid It
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36:48In this episode of The Dream 100 Show, Michael Tasner together with Ryan Chute of the Wizard of Ads expose the common pitfalls that hold marketers back from achieving long-term success. From the rise of self-proclaimed “gurus” with narrow skill sets to businesses caught in the trap of desperation for quick wins, they break down the real challenges …
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Episode 087: Fill Your Summer Camp to the Brim with this Proven Formula
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16:07In this episode of The Childcare Bridge, discover the secret formula to filling your summer camp to the brim. Michael reveals simple yet effective strategies to out-market your competition and create an irresistible summer camp experience. Learn how to leverage marketing math, understand your cost per enrollment, and go all-in on digital advertisin…
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Episode 081: What Most Business Owners Get Wrong About Growth and Success
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17:16Michael dives into the mindset and data-driven strategies behind making bold business decisions in uncertain times. While others pull back, high-performing entrepreneurs double down - with clarity, confidence, and cold, hard numbers. This episode of The Dream 100 Show is a masterclass in using data to lead, not lag. Listen in as he breaks down exac…
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Episode 086: The Approach to Win in the Childcare Industry Without Even Trying
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16:55In this episode of The Childcare Bridge, host Michael Tasner challenges childcare center owners to rethink their approach to data. While most centers track diapers, bottles, and tuition payments meticulously, there's a major gap when it comes to the most important area: enrollment and lead data. Michael reveals the powerful truth behind the questio…
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Episode 085: Doubling your Enrollments with One Simple Tweak
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19:23In this week's episode of The Childcare Bridge, Michael unveils the one tweak to your tour process that can add hundreds of thousands—if not millions—of dollars in revenue over the long term. Discover the powerful follow-up strategies that turn 60% of non-enrollees into loyal families. Tune in for actionable tips that will revolutionize your enroll…
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Episode 080: Why Your Business Isn’t Winning Online and How To Fix It
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15:12In this episode of the Dream 100 Show, Michael breaks down why small to medium-sized businesses are missing out on one of the most powerful marketing strategies today: short-form video content. He dives deep into the TikTokification of social media and shares actionable tips for how businesses can leverage shorter, more authentic video to boost eng…
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Episode 079: How Smart Businesses Are Winning Without Spending More on Ads
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15:39In this episode of the Dream 100 Show, Michael dives deep into one of the most underrated digital marketing tactics — geofencing. Often misunderstood but incredibly powerful, this strategy lets you target the right people with pinpoint accuracy. Learn how geofencing works, why it's a game changer, and how you can leverage it for your business in 20…
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Episode 084: Transform Your Tours into Million Dollar Enrollments
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15:02In this episode of the Child Care Bridge podcast, Michael Tasner reveals why most child care centers miss the mark with their tour process—and how a few strategic tweaks can turn every tour into a high-value enrollment opportunity. By diving deep into the pre-tour setup, follow-up techniques, and the critical transition from tour to close, he expla…
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Episode 078: The Fatal Mistake 90% of Business Owners Make
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15:02Most business owners and marketers unknowingly sabotage their own success by skipping one crucial step in their strategy. In this episode of The Dream 100 Show, Michael Tasner uncovers the biggest blind spot that leads to failed campaigns, wasted ad spend, and missed opportunities. If you've ever launched a campaign, built a new website, or rebrand…
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