Best Steve Sirico Podcasts (2025)

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Episode 024: From Toilet Paper Rolls to Top Designs: Tanya Hamilton’s Dance Journey 26:54

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22d ago26:54

26:54

In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, we sit down with Tanya Hamilton, the powerhouse behind Hamilton Theatrical Supply. From her early days in her mother’s dance studio—handling everything from picture day to changing toilet paper rolls—to running one of the most respected costume companies in the industry, Tanya’s journey is equal parts inspiri…

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Episode 023: Building a Studio That Lasts: Gaynelle Costner on Community, Commitment & Care 24:55

29d ago24:55

24:55

In this heartfelt episode of Step Up Your Studio, we sit down with Gaynelle Costner, founder of First Class Dance Studio in Temple Hills, Maryland. Gaynelle shares how a spontaneous opportunity at age 13 ignited a lifelong passion for teaching—and how a single mailed letter helped her register 98 dancers on day one of her now 27-year-old studio. Ga…

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Episode 022: Discipline, Drive & Dance Wellness with Dolly Kelepecz 31:14

1M ago31:14

31:14

In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, Angela D’Valda Sirico welcomes longtime friend and industry icon Darlene “Dolly” Kelepecz —a celebrated performer, educator, author, and creator of the DK Body Balancing Method. Currently a full-time professor at UNLV and lead instructor for Dance Teacher University, Dolly shares powerful insights from her de…

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Episode 021: Modern Teaching for Modern Dancers: Ian Howe’s Studio Strategies 26:18

1M ago26:18

26:18

In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, host Steve Sirico sits down with Ian Howe, artistic director of Pacific West Performing Arts and co-founder of Influx Dance. With decades of experience as an educator, performer, MC, and judge, Ian shares deep insights on how the dance world—and its students—have evolved post-COVID. From managing early childh…

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Episode 020: Kim McSwain on Studio Culture, Teaching with Purpose, and True Impact 23:23

1M ago23:23

23:23

In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, we welcome industry veteran Kim McSwain, founder of KM Agency and longtime educator, choreographer, and mentor to dancers and teachers alike. From touring with Britney Spears and Michael Jackson to becoming a leading voice in teacher training and studio consulting, Kim shares how a career-ending injury led he…

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Episode 019: The Power of Studio Relationships with Hedy Perna 27:05

2M ago27:05

27:05

In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, we sit down with the incredible Hedy Perna, owner of Perna Dance Center in Haslet, NJ. With over 37 years of experience, Hedy brings heart, humor, and hard-won wisdom to the mic as she shares what it really takes to build a lasting, values-driven studio. From her childhood obsession with Fred Astaire to launc…

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Episode 018: Movement, Meaning & Mentorship with Simone DePaulo 35:08

2M ago35:08

35:08

In this heartfelt and wisdom-packed episode, Step Up Your Studio welcomes Simone DePaulo, veteran performer, choreographer, and passionate educator. From Alvin Ailey training to Afro Jazz choreography, Simone’s journey spans continents, disciplines, and decades. She shares how dance chose her, the life-changing impact of international touring, and …

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Episode 017: Purposeful Choreography & Growth Lessons with Jessica Stafford 40:51

2M ago40:51

40:51

In 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 016: Creating Unforgettable Studio Experiences with 42nd Street Tours 30:58

2M ago30:58

30:58

In 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

2M ago31:23

31:23

In 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 014: The Hidden Risks of Flexibility: Hypermobility in Dancers with Dr. Linda Bluestein 38:51

2M ago38:51

38:51

In 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

2M ago24:06

24:06

In 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 012: Dance Studios Reimagined: Marketing Breakthroughs with Michael Tasner 35:52

2M ago35:52

35:52

In 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 011: Behind the Curtain: How to Simplify Recital Season with Brandy Vickers 26:04

3M ago26:04

26:04

In 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 010: Studio to Spotlight: The Harlequin Floors Story with Steve Gough & Chrissy Ott Richter 21:09

3M ago21:09

21:09

In 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

3M ago39:59

39:59

In 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 008: From Studio Floors to Social Scores: Marissa Powers’ Rise in Dance & Digital 25:33

3M ago25:33

25:33

In 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

3M ago28:23

28:23

In 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 006: Dance Competition Edge: Expert Advice from Courtney Ortiz 38:34

3M ago38:34

38:34

In 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 23:55

3M ago23:55

23:55

In 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 004: Studio Success Starts with Branding: Insights from Weissman Experts 30:13

3M ago30:13

30:13

In 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 003: Audition Like a Pro: Tips from Broadway’s Ashley Andrews 32:05

4M ago32:05

32:05

In 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 002: From Studio Owner to Mentor: Julie Kay’s Secrets to Building a Thriving Dance Studio Team 26:26

4M ago26:26

26:26

In 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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Episode 001: Welcome to Step Up Your Studio 3:53

4M ago3:53

3:53

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.…