Dance Principals United: Dance Studio Growth & Marketing Podcast

This week Amanda & Bec are talking about the thing so many dance studio owners love to hate… social media.  If you've ever stared at your phone thinking, "What am I even meant to post?"—this episode is your permission slip to stop making it so hard. They break down why social media is non-negotiable for studio growth these days (and why "I hate socials" isn't a strategy), what simple content actually works, how to involve your staff without paying someone 10 hours a week for two posts, and the big mistakes that quietly block enquiries—like having messaging turned off (!). Plus: a spicy little rant about boring Canva posts… and a reminder that parents don't need perfection—they want real. Episode Highlights Social media is where parents discover and "research" studios now—often before Google. You don't need a full-time social media person. Most studios can do it in 2–3 hours/week. Your studio already has the BEST organic content: happy kids, community, joy, behind-the-scenes. "Perfect" can actually scare parents off—realistic content builds trust. Train your staff on what to film (and make it easy to submit content). Don't block enquiries: public profile + DMs turned ON is essential. Be careful with AI: use it well, or don't use it (no weird hands/fingers please 😬). Time-block your content and keep it simple: 3–4 clips → reel → done. Podcast listener offer: One week free inside the Dance Principles United Tribe: https://danceprincipalsunited.com/dpu-tribe/  

This week on the podcast, Bec sits down with the incredible Shannon Atkins for a chat that is equal parts inspiring, honest and wildly helpful for studio owners raising the next generation of dancers. From growing up as a comp kid and opening her own studio in her early twenties, to building an international career as a choreographer, teacher and judge, Shannon shares the journey behind the success - and the pressure that came with it. They chat about the realities of running a high-level studio, what judges are really looking for, why technique still matters more than ever, and how studio owners can better guide students who dream of a professional career. It's a big conversation about comps, training, expectations, childhood, and remembering what actually matters. In this episode, they chat about: Shannon's dance journey from a small town hall in Lismore to the international stage What it was really like owning a successful studio at a young age The pressure studio owners carry when parents want elite results Why comp success doesn't always translate to industry readiness What Shannon looks for when she's judging The difference between Australian and US comp culture Why ballet and strong technical foundations still matter How studio owners can help students make smarter full-time and career choices The reminder every studio owner needs: stay true to your vision This episode is such a good one for any studio owner who's ever felt the weight of trying to do it all, keep everyone happy, and still lead with heart. And if you'd love more support, connection and practical help in your studio owner journey, there's a special offer for podcast listeners. Grab 1 week free in Dance Principles United Tribe: https://danceprincipalsunited.com/dpu-tribe/  

This episode is one of those "you don't know what you don't know" conversations… and wow, it's a good one. Bec is joined by Zoe and Kristy from Act It Out - two powerhouse women with seriously impressive careers across dance, acting, TV, and beyond. But what they're sharing today isn't just about performing… it's about what our students are missing. Because let's be real - our industry is overflowing with incredible dancers. Like, insanely talented. But the opportunities? Still limited. So what actually sets students apart? In this episode, we dive into why drama training might be the missing piece, not just for booking jobs, but for building confident, capable, well-rounded humans (which honestly… matters even more). From communication skills to confidence, auditions to eye contact (yep, we go there), this chat will get you thinking about how you're preparing your students for the real world, not just the stage. In this episode, we chat about: Why being just a dancer isn't enough anymore How adding acting skills can massively expand career opportunities The real-life skills drama teaches (hello confidence + communication!) Why so many teens struggle with eye contact and conversations How drama helps kids find their voice, on stage and in life The gap in training (and why it's showing up later) A simple way to add drama into your studio, without hiring a specialist If you've ever wondered how to better support your students' future (and maybe even add a new income stream), this episode is for you! Connect with Dance Princiapls United and Act It Out at Dance Teacher Expo: https://www.danceteacherexpo.com.au

This week on the podcast, Bec chats with Ellie from Carnival Dance Challenge - and honestly, this conversation is such a good one for any studio owner who's ever sat at a comp and thought, "Surely there's a better way to do this." Ellie shares her own dance journey, from growing up in the Southern Highlands to training full-time at Brent Street and performing professionally, before a massive life pivot during COVID changed everything. With travel plans on hold and motherhood entering the picture, Ellie found herself reimagining what her future in dance could look like… and Carnival was born. Beck and Ellie dive into how the comp world has changed over the years, what today's dancers really need, and why the future might actually be less about flashy tricks and more about artistry, performance quality and creating genuinely positive experiences for families and studios. They also chat about Carnival's fresh approach to competitions, the importance of high-calibre judges, and why Ellie is passionate about creating more opportunities for dancers who want to sing, act and dance - not just nail six tricks in a row. It's a warm, honest convo about big dreams, industry change, and building something that actually serves the dance community. In this episode, they chat about: Ellie's journey from small-town dance student to professional performer How COVID and becoming a mum led to a huge career pivot Why Carnival was created and what makes it different from other comps How the standard of dancers has changed over the years Why the industry may need to pull back on tricks and refocus on dance The value of judges who are actively working in the industry Why Broadway performers and triple threats deserve more recognition How studio culture is shifting to become more connected and supportive Meet with the team from Carnival and our incredible vendors at Dance Teacher Expo in Sydney! https://ticket.danceteacherexpo.com.au/

Mid-year concerts… let's talk about the underrated MVP of studio life. In this episode, Amanda & Bec break down exactly what a mid-year concert is, why it's not just "another thing to add to your plate," and how it can seriously boost retention, parent buy-in, class upsells and even profit - without the chaos of full costumes and theatre-level stress. They also chat about Bec's slightly unhinged (in the best way) Pep Rally setup for comp kids (think: red carpet, prizes, parents dressing up, giant cut-out heads… yep), plus why community matters more than we realise for keeping families around long-term. Episode Highlights What a "mid-year concert" actually is (and what makes it good). Why uniform concerts are gold: cheaper, easier, less intimidating for new families, and better for promo photos. The "parents only get 2 games a year" problem - and why dance needs more performance windows than just end-of-year. Why mid-year concerts are often better than viewing week (and how to sell the benefits to parents). How to use the microphone to educate parents + upsell (ballet, acro, extra classes, exams, end-of-year opt-in). The Pep Rally model: dress rehearsal + community event + parent buy-in (and a sneaky marketing machine). The profit side: tickets, merch, uniforms, limited edition drops - with less admin than end-of-year. It's not too late: even in March, you can still plan a simple mid-year concert and make it work. Podcast listener offer: Get one week free inside the Dance Principles United Tribe: https://danceprincipalsunited.com/dpu-tribe/  

This week's episode is a little different… We're giving you a behind-the-scenes sneak peek inside a recent live coaching call from the Dance Principles United Tribe, and we're talking about something that can make or break your studio: Your team. Most studio owners spend all their time worrying about marketing, enrolments, comps, concerts, broken toilets… and staff becomes the "I'll deal with that later" category. But staff isn't the side issue. It's the whole game. In this episode, Amanda & Bec dive into: Removing financial anxiety from your teachers (and why paying on time is non-negotiable) Why unclear expectations create resentment (on both sides) The power of regular check-ins and staff appraisals How to give feedback without it becoming awkward or scary Why upskilling your team is your responsibility How to align staff with your studio values What to do when classes aren't growing The leadership mindset shift that changes everything This is honest, practical, no-fluff leadership advice - especially for studio owners who never actually planned on becoming "the boss"… but here we are. If you've ever felt: frustrated with a teacher unsure how to have hard conversations exhausted from carrying everything alone scared to implement structure This episode will feel like a deep breath and a gentle push forward. And if you'd love access to the staff appraisal forms, jump-in training slides, and live coaching calls like this every month — grab one week free inside the Dance Principles United Tribe via the link in the show notes. https://danceprincipalsunited.com/dpu-tribe/  

Dance for Your Life hits cinemas April 2,  and this episode goes behind the scenes. In this powerful conversation, Amanda is joined by Jade Barnes (producer) and Lucas Newland (Executive Producer, and Owner and Artistic Director of Brent Street) to talk about the journey from the Dance Life series to the brand-new feature film Dance for Your Life. They dive into: How the movie came to life after the original series The emotional audition process (200 dancers down to 10!) Training in London with Janet Jackson's choreographer, Dean Lee The pressure of representing Australian dancers on screen The unspoken realities of beauty standards in the dance industry What it actually takes to "make it" professionally Why supporting this film in cinemas matters for the future of dance on screen This episode is raw, honest, and deeply reflective about the responsibility of telling dance stories the right way;  without sensationalising, without tearing down the industry, and without pretending it's easier than it is. If you're a studio owner, teacher, dancer, or dance parent,  this conversation matters. 🎬 Dance for Your Life – In cinemas April 2 (Go opening week. It matters.)  

It's the most chaotic, sparkly, high-energy weekend of the year… and it's nearly here.  In this special episode, Amanda & Bec are talking all things Dance Teacher Expo - happening April 11–12 at ICC Darling Harbour, Sydney - and why it's the one event that can genuinely re-energise you, upskill your team, and remind you why you do this whole studio life thing in the first place. They share what they love most about Expo (the vibe, the learning, the connection), give you the inside scoop on presenters + classes they're excited about (hello Stephen Tannos, Shannon Atkins, Relative Motion + more), and chat about how studio owners can plan the weekend so they actually get value - not just overstimulation and sore feet. Oh, and they're brainstorming their stall activation… ball pits, swings, balloon domes… and possibly a human claw machine?!  Key takeaways / discussion points Expo details: April 11–12, ICC Darling Harbour, Sydney (tickets selling fast). Why Expo is about more than "learning" - it's about community and connection (and making studio life feel less lonely). Movement room classes are designed for teachers and studio owners of all ages/levels - no judgement, just joy + skill-building. Presenters to watch: Relative Motion (safe training + results), Stephen Tannos (fear + creativity), Shannon Atkins (employable dancers), plus cutting-edge choreographers. Why it's smart to bring your team and split the timetable (everyone attends different sessions, then share takeaways). How Expo can boost your credibility with parents/students: "I learned this from XYZ industry expert." Vendor hall + fashion show + cocktail party = networking + inspiration + fun. Podcast listener offer: Get 2 weeks free inside the Dance Principles United Tribe https://danceprincipalsunited.com/dpu-tribe/  

This one's a big conversation. Bec sits down with Cara Dixon from Relative Motion to talk about something we're all feeling… but maybe not saying out loud. The tricks. The extremes. The Instagram pressure. The comp cycle that just keeps escalating. We love seeing dancers achieve incredible things. We love excellence. But at what point are we pushing bodies beyond what's safe… for a trophy that won't even make it onto a resume? Cara shares her journey from professional performer and faculty teacher to creating Relative Motion — a colour-based strength and alignment system that helps dancers actually understand their technique (instead of just forcing their bodies into shapes). And wow… this conversation goes deep. If you've ever felt stuck between: Wanting your dancers to win Wanting parents to be happy Wanting to protect growing bodies And wanting to prepare kids for real careers… This episode will feel like a breath of fresh air. 💛 Inside this episode: Why just because a dancer can do a trick… doesn't mean they should The long-term damage that can happen when alignment is off (even by an inch) What judges really struggle with when it comes to choreography vs technique Why competition wins don't equal career preparation The importance of pelvic alignment (yes, we go there!) How to break bad muscle memory — even in older dancers Why teacher training is the real game-changer in studio growth How to lead with boundaries in a highly competitive environment There's so much honesty in this one. And so much permission to think differently. If you've been feeling the pressure of "more tricks, younger, higher, faster" — this conversation will ground you again. And if you're coming to Expo this year, Cara will be there teaching — and you'll definitely want to experience Relative Motion in person. Have a listen and let us know what lands for you 💛 https://danceprincipalsunited.com/dpu-tribe/  

School holidays are done, the kids are back at school… and if you're anything like us, you're equal parts relieved and READY.  In this episode, Amanda and Nath chat about how to squeeze a bit more magic out of that January/Feb enrolment momentum, even if you feel like you've "missed the window" (spoiler: you haven't). If you've got inquiries sitting in your inbox, ex-students in your database, or a few classes that are looking a bit… empty, this one's your gentle kick up the bum to do a quick enrolment push that actually works. Episode Highlights: Your database is a pot of gold. Cold leads, warm leads, ex-students - don't waste it. Keep emails short + punchy. Parents are time-poor and skimming everything. Use "you're not too late" messaging to remove that big mental barrier. Make the call-to-action frictionless: "Reply YES" beats "fill in this 12-step form." Follow up more than once (like… 5–6 times) and across different channels. Pick up the phone! Calls + texts can convert fast when parents finally have headspace. Check your basics: website timetable, contact links, IG bio links (no "2024 timetable" please 😭). Use your community + ask for referrals (personal 1:1 convos work best). Bonus: Google reviews can be an easy "quiet enrolment booster" too. 🎧 Listen in and choose just ONE thing to implement this week, then give it an hour and watch what happens! https://danceprincipalsunited.com/dpu-tribe/  

What do you get when you mix a cyclone, a lost hot pink suitcase, and two powerhouse studio owners in outback Queensland? One heck of a podcast episode! This week, Bec travels (via bumpy plane and shed-sized airport) to Moranbah to visit the amazing duo behind Pulse Performing Arts - Bek and Kat. What started as a prize visit for their Open Week success turns into a hilarious and heartfelt deep dive into regional studio life. They talk about... Getting stuck in a literal cyclone (with no clothes!) What it's really like living and running a studio in a rural town Why they were ready to close their doors - and what changed everything The challenges of staffing, student retention, and community perception How they tripled class numbers with zero local dance competition The power of community (and how they built one beyond their postcode) Mindset shifts that turned them from teachers into business owners If you've ever felt isolated in your studio journey, this one's for you. Regional or not, you'll walk away with fresh perspective, a good giggle, and maybe even a new plan. 🎁 Special Offer: Love what you're hearing? Podcast listeners get 2 weeks free in the Dance Principles United Tribe: https://danceprincipalsunited.com/dpu-tribe/  

In this episode of the Dance Principles United podcast, Amanda and Nathan sit down with some epic studio owners - Nicky, Chelsea, & Maree - for a heart-to-heart about the turning points that shaped them. We're talking court dates, financial messes, syllabus overhauls, and ego checks... with a whole lot of laughter and love sprinkled in. This episode is a warm hug for anyone who's ever cried behind the desk or questioned if they're cut out for studio life. Because guess what? You are. In this chatty, feel-good ep: Why being a little bit vulnerable with your studio families can actually build trust The rock-bottom moments that sparked massive growth (yes, even court appearances 😳) Chelsea's big syllabus shake-up—and how it led to less stress and more joy How knowing your studio values helps attract the right families Letting go of perfection and embracing your real strengths A beautiful reminder that students often return... when they've felt safe and seen by you Maree's $49 turning point (hello, full-circle moment!) A sneak peek into everyone's 2026 studio dreams 🌈 This is one of those episodes where you'll laugh, nod, and maybe tear up a little. It's real. It's raw. And it's just what you might need today. 🎁 Special offer for our podcast fam  Get 1 week FREE inside our Dance Principles United Tribe. Just hit the link: https://danceprincipalsunited.com/dpu-tribe/  

Oh boy, have we got a treat for you this week! Amanda & Nathan are joined on the couch (literally!) by three fabulous studio owner friends - Nicky, Chelsea and Maree - for a heart-filled, hilarious and totally unfiltered chat about the real life of running a dance studio. From vomit mid-speech to fireworks triggering sprinklers, this episode is packed with the kind of chaos only a dance studio owner would understand. It's messy, it's honest, and it'll make you feel oh-so-seen. In this episode: Nicky's nightmare concert moment with a rogue phone charger (!) Chelsea's on-the-grass karaoke school fete save Maree's indoor firework fail (yes, water sprinklers included) Amanda's flashbacks to fire alarm chaos at Nationals The vulnerable truth about burnout and breakdowns Studio-owner fails we still cringe over (and what we learned) ✨ PSA: You are not alone in the madness. Tune in for the laughs, stay for the therapy. 🎉 Special Offer: Get 1 week FREE in the Dance Principles United Tribe! Join our amazing community of studio owners: https://danceprincipalsunited.com/dpu-tribe/  

Amanda and Bec are keeping it real: their studios finally hit that $1 million‑a‑year milestone: not by doing more, but by doing less. In this episode, they dive into the six surprising habits they had to quit so their businesses could flourish, and you can too. Think ditching the endless "wishlist" requests, pushing past word‑of‑mouth, and choosing vision over people‑pleasing. What you'll take away: Stop being everything to everyone - Clarity over chaos is the name of the game. Word‑of‑mouth isn't enough - Invest in marketing, ads, and systems that scale. Coaching isn't optional - Business skills don't come from passion alone. Don't sweat small stuff - Quick action saves time, headspace, and sanity. Stop playing small - Believe you are a business, not "just a dance teacher." Love your littles (not just your elites) - Make your preschoolers the future, not an afterthought. If you'd love to join a community that lifts you while building your business, go grab two free weeks in Dance Principles United Tribe: https://www.danceprincipalsunited.com/offers/4znu2MFP/checkout

Let's be honest: concerts these days need to do more than dazzle on stage. In this episode, Amanda and Bec are diving into how your end-of-year concert can (and should!) be a retention powerhouse, a marketing machine, and a profitable part of your studio year - all without sending your parents into meltdown mode. They unpack what today's parents actually want (hint: it's not 15 makeup changes and a Pinterest-worthy updo), and how you can make your concert experience smoother, simpler, and more joyful for everyone. If you've ever found yourself juggling costume chaos, payment overloads, or concerts that run longer than a Lord of the Rings marathon… this one's for you. What we cover: Why concerts should be built for marketing, retention, and profit (not just your creative flair) The reason parents don't want six tiny costume payments spread out over months How to simplify your concert offerings and make parents breathe a sigh of relief The power of the opt-out model to boost participation How to ditch complicated makeup and shoe requirements (please!) A practical new approach to costume pricing (that still looks fab on stage) Why studio owners should go and watch other concerts for fresh eyes Real talk about the TikTok-attention-span reality we're all facing 🎧 Pop in your earbuds, grab that cold coffee, and let's reimagine your concert season, minus the overwhelm. 👉 Got concert chaos? Let's sort it inside The Tribe! https://www.danceprincipalsunited.com/offers/4znu2MFP/checkout

In this week's episode, Bec sits down with Robyn Parras - founder of Prodigy Performing Arts and Dance Apprentice - to unpack her studio journey from a boutique brand to a thriving hub of dance, confidence, and culture. They dive into rebranding, insane growth (from ~250 students to nearly 800!), building a purpose‑driven space, and why teacher training is one of the biggest studio game changers out there. What We Chat About: Robyn's Origin Story How her studio transformed from Rock the Block to Prodigy - and why the name matters  Why she constantly reminds herself of her "why" (especially when selling her studio in her head ) Growth, Mindset & Marketing The real formula behind sustainable studio growth Why mindset + strategic marketing made all the difference for Robyn Rebranding & Renovation How Robyn built a brand‑new studio in four weeks (yes, really) Why first impressions matter - and how environment impacts enrolments Teacher Training That Works Why assistant teachers can make or break your studio How Dance Apprentice trains teachers properly - not just "putting them in a room" Real talk about culture, care, and classroom confidence Key Takeaways: Your brand story has power - tell it! Growth isn't accidental - it's strategic and intentional. A beautiful studio space = confidence from families. Teachers are culture. Invest in them early and often. Training isn't a "nice‑to‑have" - it's essential. Assistant teachers can lift so much off your plate. Don't underestimate ongoing professional development. Special Offer: Podcast listeners get ONE WEEK FREE of the Dance Principles United Tribe! Head to the link in these show notes to join us: https://danceprincipalsunited.com/dpu-tribe/

In this episode, Amanda and Bec dive deep into the sometimes messy, always emotional world of competition teams - and they're not holding back. From parent tears at re-enrolment to evolving their own studio models, the girls share honestly how they've handled auditions vs invitations, the importance of inclusivity, and why letting go of control can be the best thing you do. Whether you're running elite teams, just starting with junior groups, or figuring out how to set minimum requirements, there's something here for every studio owner juggling studio growth and sanity! Here's what we chat about: Why Bec made the switch from "everyone's welcome" to invitation-only The parent backlash - and how she handled it with grace Amanda's 'performance team' structure and what worked well How to balance high standards with a nurturing environment Why letting go of micro-managing can actually be magic How FOMO can help build better buy-in What minimum requirements work for different age groups 🎁 Special Offer: Get 1 week free in the Dance Principles United Tribe! Tap the link below to join. https://danceprincipalsunited.com/dpu-tribe/  

This week, Bec is joined by Chloe and Kirralee from KICO Dance Studios - two powerhouse young studio owners who've turned their childhood friendship into a thriving business (and total vibe). They're sharing the real behind-the-scenes of buying a studio at 23 (yep!), surviving the Zoom era, launching a full-scale rebrand, and how they've used systems, time-blocking, and community love to build something truly special. If you've ever thought "I should probably post on Instagram more..." or "Maybe it's time to finally rebrand," this ep is your nudge! You'll hear about: The pink-and-orange rebrand that transformed their studio (and why it felt SO them) How time-blocking helps them do all the things without losing their minds Their seriously smart (and fun!) approach to social media What it's like running a studio with your best friend since childhood The mindset shifts that helped them handle hard decisions and trust their gut Their booming preschool program - and why splitting their concert was a game-changer Their team motto: Rinse, repeat and do better This one's like a big warm hug with a side of practical magic. Studio owners, you're gonna LOVE it. 👉 Special offer for listeners: Get 1 week FREE inside the Tribe! Just hit the link and come join us - your future self will thank you: https://danceprincipalsunited.com/dpu-tribe/   

Ever felt like your studio was running you, not the other way around? This episode is for you. We sat down with the fabulous Maree from Dancing With Maree, and let us tell you - her journey is the definition of transformation. From running three school halls (and crying in the car when they pulled the floor out from under her - literally) to running a thriving studio with 480 students, Maree shares it all. You'll laugh, cry, and be reminded that change is absolutely possible - even if you've been doing things the same way for 15+ years. In this episode: Maree's rocky start (no wage, no direction, lots of hustle) The storm - figuratively and literally - that forced her to pivot What SGC's 75 Hard did for her mindset and marketing Why moving into her own space was the game-changer Her staff training secrets (balloons, affirmations & all) How she gets her team to write their own critical paths (genius!) How Bec & Amanda's support helped her become the leader she is today Maree's story proves you don't need to have it all figured out, you just need to take that first brave step. 👉 Special Offer: One Week Free in the Tribe! Our podcast listeners get exclusive access to try Tribe free. Click here to come join us: https://danceprincipalsunited.com/dpu-tribe/  

Pack your bags (mentally at least!) and join Amanda and Bec in this special episode recorded straight from sunny Fiji. While they were technically on a business trip (promise!), scouting the perfect venue for next year's Studio Growth Club retreat, they walked away with a whole lot more than tan lines and cocktail reviews. This episode is a deep dive into the magic of unforgettable customer service: from 5-star resort treatment to small surprises that make a big impact back at your studio. Here's what we chat about: The real reason we were sipping champagne in adults-only zones (spoiler: it was research!) What resort service taught us about first impressions in your studio The power of surprise and delight (and how a $5 coffee can be worth $50K) Why daily debriefs could be your studio's secret weapon Clever little ideas to make your studio parents feel truly seen Our favourite example from a Studio Growth Club member going the extra mile How to create VIP vibes on a not-so-VIP budget A sneak peek at our FIRST EVER international retreat It's warm, it's honest, and it'll get you thinking about how you treat your studio families in a whole new way. PS: Thinking about joining Studio Growth Club? Now's the perfect time. Applications are open, and you might just find yourself sipping cocktails with us in Fiji next year... Apply here: https://danceprincipalsunited.com/studio-growth/