Dance Principals United: Dance Studio Growth & Marketing Podcast

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/ 

It's Christmas season, which means... absolute mayhem for studio owners! But before you skip that local tree lighting or Santa parade, you need to hear why Bec says these events are studio gold. In this festive (and slightly frantic) episode, Amanda and Bec dive into: Why Bec runs nine shows and still makes time for Christmas gigs How she turns parades into powerful marketing events What to sell at your stall (hint: light-up wands & dance gift vouchers!) How to keep your preschoolers safe and sane in big outdoor events Genius follow-up systems that actually convert leads Why not every costume is a good fit for a public event (yep, we said it!) Amanda's slight obsession with all things tinsel If you've ever wondered whether those community events are worth the stress, this one's for you. Special Offer: Want to kickstart 2025 with more support? Studio Growth Club applications are open now! Click here to apply and get prepped to soar next year: https://danceprincipalsunited.com/studio-growth/   

Comp season is over, and Bec and Amanda are feeling every bit of that comp hangover! This week on the pod, they're deep-diving into everything that worked (and didn't) during a jam-packed competition season. From massive days and prop-hauling trucks to awkward award ceremonies and cranky comp staff, they spill it all. This is a must-listen for any studio owner navigating the wild world of comps, whether you're all-in or dipping a toe. Here's what you'll hear: Why comp burnout is real (for you AND your families) How Bec handles solo comps and keeps it scalable The awards drama: participation ribbons, photo ops, and who really wants the trophy Why some comps win at studio-owner experience (hello, Panadol packs!) Tales of dressing room nightmares, cranky ticket ladies, and judging chaos How costume choices can totally shift the tone of your routine Tips to make comps a better experience for everyone involved Plus, they share practical, heartfelt ideas to help comp organisers lift their game (seriously, every comp director should listen to this). Want to feel less alone in the madness of comp life? Hit play, have a giggle, and know we've all been there. PODCAST EXCLUSIVE: Grab your 2 weeks FREE in the Tribe! If you loved this ep, come hang out with Amanda and Bec in the DPUnited Tribe. Click here to join the community that gets it: https://danceprincipalsunited.com/dpu-tribe/  

Amanda and Bec spill all the tea from their latest Studio Growth Club retreat, and trust us, this is NOT your average conference recap. From blindfolded trust exercises and DIY wine pitching, to deep dives into studio systems and AI hacks, this weekend in the Hunter Valley was as jam-packed as a term four rehearsal week. Whether you've been thinking about attending a live event or just need a fresh burst of inspo for your studio, this ep will have you nodding along and dreaming of your own glow-up getaway. Here's what we cover: Why live retreats offer something no Zoom session can How fun + connection = serious studio breakthroughs Bart's epic trust-building exercise (and the surprising outcome!) Wine-making… dance studio style 🍷 Customer journey mapping to fix your funnel holes Simple AI wins to save you time and sanity The real reason staffing might be draining your profits Fiji, here we come! Sneak peek at the next retreat Want to experience this magic yourself? Podcast listeners can try the Dance Principles United Tribe FREE for 1 week. Click here to join: https://danceprincipalsunited.com/dpu-tribe/ 

This one's for the studio owners with admin teams, or those thinking about hiring one. Amanda and Nathan unpack how to get the most out of your admin staff without micromanaging, overspending, or letting things fall through the cracks. They answer a listener question from Bec about admin strategy, and dive into real, practical steps you can take to build a streamlined, cost-effective, and high-performing admin setup that actually helps you grow. (Plus, Amanda admits to getting distracted by Amazon. Again.) Key Takeaways: How admin staff costs can quietly eat up your profit if you're not paying attention Why you should do the admin first, even if it's not your favourite thing The importance of systemising tasks (and the free tool Nathan swears by) How to track how long things really take before handing them off Setting clear KPIs for admin roles (including examples for leads & accounts) How to keep staff accountable without micromanaging What weekly check-ins should look like (spoiler: it's just 10 minutes) The danger of putting "nice" teachers in admin roles they're not suited for How to start small with hours and build from there What true leadership (not just management) looks like with your team Need help setting up better systems in your studio? Don't forget, podcast listeners get 1 week free inside the Dance Principles United Tribe: https://danceprincipalsunited.com/dpu-tribe/

This week, Amanda and Bec dive into something every dance studio owner has… but might not have touched in years: your website. They're not pulling punches in this one - you'll hear real talk about what your website is actually for, what most studio owners get wrong (hint: it's not about you), and how to make it easier for busy parents to say yes to a trial class. And yes, there are some laughs - including a very relatable story about Amazon, 80s sleeve bands, and why Amanda's postman is basically her bestie. Key Takeaways: Why your studio website is not for current families The single job your site needs to do: get new students to book a trial What to remove ASAP: elite dancer pics, long bios, too many dropdowns What to include: smiling happy kids, simple age-based pathways, big "Book a Trial" buttons How a parent really uses your site: multitasking, mobile-only, wine in hand Why most people click away when asked for too many details How Amanda & Bec are refreshing their own websites (and what they've learned) 🎉 Podcast listeners get 1 weeks free in the Dance Principals United Tribe! Click here to grab your spot: https://danceprincipalsunited.com/dpu-tribe/ 📹 Plus - want Amanda & Bec to review your website? First 5 to comment will get a free website audit via Loom.

In this week's episode, Nathan and Bec go deep on a question a lot of studio owners wrestle with: should you expand (open a second location) or lean into optimising what you've got first? They share stories from their own journeys, cautionary tales, and strategies you can use now to grow smarter - not just bigger. We talk about why expansion isn't always the answer, what "fullness" really means in your studio, how your timetable could secretly be holding you back, and when (and if) a second location actually makes sense. Key Takeaways: Expansion is expensive - fit‑out, extra staff, marketing, more admin time Many studios who open a second location might not be ready - headspace & risk are often underestimated What does "bursting at the seams" actually mean? Look beyond just one busy evening How to audit your studio's capacity: class fill rates, age distributions, under‑utilised slots The power of optimising your timetable - getting students into more classes without needing more students Back‑to‑back scheduling (e.g. circus + acro) and designing it for what's easiest for parents (not teachers) Watch demographic trends and local growth cues before choosing a new location It's okay (and smart) to focus on maximising what you already have before chasing "more" If this episode got your wheels turning and you'd love more support, don't forget: podcast listeners get 1 week free in our Dance Principals United Tribe. Hit the link in the show notes and come see us inside: https://danceprincipalsunited.com/dpu-tribe/  

In this week's episode, Amanda is joined by Nathan as they dive into one of their fave mantras: "Big moves = big results" - especially when it comes to enrollment pushes in your dance studio. They share what works (and what doesn't), real numbers from members who went all in, and how to confidently lean into follow-up (even when you're terrified of sounding "salesy"). In this episode you'll hear: Why the one‑and‑done email/messaging approach almost never gets you big results How to plan out a two‑week bring-a-friend / open-week campaign: what pieces to include The power of every touchpoint: emails, texts, socials, teachers in class, flyers, posters, balloons Why the follow-up is where most studios drop the ball, and simple systems to plug that gap Real studio numbers: how one team landed 135 extra class placements in one week How to lean into rejection, build confidence in calling leads, and see the upside Why consistency + iteration beats reinventing the wheel every time Want more support? If you're feeling inspired (or overwhelmed) by all this, remember: our Dance Principals United Tribe is here. You might also hear some of our Studio Growth Club members on the podcast soon, sharing their stories. To get a week free in the Tribe, click here: https://danceprincipalsunited.com/dpu-tribe/  

Buckle up! In this week's episode Bec and Nath go deep on one of the biggest, most emotional events in studio life: the end‑of‑year concert. They talk about why it often doesn't make money, what costs secretly drag you down, and how small shifts in ticket pricing or marketing can make thousands more in profit. And yes, there's talk about late‑night hair, juggling sick kids, and what being a studio owner really means when you also have a family. What we cover: Why your concert must be profitable, especially when revenue turns off for several weeks after shows. How big rehearsal schedules and added production costs (think epic stories, flying props, etc.) can spiral out of control. The importance of looking at concert expenses (venue, staff, décor, extras)and knowing all your costs. Using your "tickets per dancer" metric: what are people already buying, and how to nudge them even a little more. Why raising ticket prices by just a few dollars can sometimes bring in more net profit than trying to sell programs, roses, etc. How to think about the parent / audience experience (comfort, show length, activation, fun) so people are happy to come back. The psychology of asking parents for "add‑ons" vs wrapping everything into the ticket/fee. Free tool alert: we drop in a concert concept profit calculator + training video to help you crunch all these numbers for your studio. If you want help running the numbers yourself, grab the Concert Profit Calculator here: https://danceprincipalsunited.com/concert-profit-calculator/ (it comes with a video walkthrough so you know how to use it). Also, if you're listening and not yet part of the Tribe, we've got a special offer: two weeks free in Dance Principles United Tribe (link in show notes). Would love to have you in there! https://danceprincipalsunited.com/dpu-tribe/  

Backstage at concert time doesn't have to be a disaster waiting to happen. In this week's episode, we are diving into the real nitty-gritty of how to turn concert chaos into absolute kiddo magic. We share everything from cringe-worthy horror stories (yep, preschoolers in actual cubicles) to the sweet, simple ways we've transformed backstage into a place kids never want to leave. This one's full of golden ideas, hilarious tangents, and real talk about how to stop concert day from turning into a pressure cooker. In this episode, we chat about: Why your backstage experience might be driving families away How Bec's party room made her concert the event of the year Amanda's tips for making drop-off smoother with less stuff and more magicThe difference between what teachers want and what kids need How to train your staff to lead fun, calm, kid-friendly groups What to do instead of a dress rehearsal Why it's all about the kids (not our ego!) Plus, we share loads of practical ideas for your next show - boxes of fun, DJ-led party zones, bravery dust, and more! Tune in now and let's make concert day feel like a celebration, not a survival mission. Want more support like this? Join us in the Tribe! Just for podcast listeners, you can get 2 weeks FREE.  https://www.danceprincipalsunited.com/offers/4znu2MFP/checkout  

This week, Nathan and Bec dive into giving clients that coveted "five‑star experience" in your studio - even if your budget doesn't match a fancy hotel chain. After some hilarious (yet cringe-worthy) hotel misadventures - keys to wrong rooms, falling door frames, showerheads dropping mid-rinse - they ask: if hospitality fails there, how do we ace it in our studios? Expect oodles of practical tips from managing prop piles to mastering warm greetings, role-play training, and the magic of small but big-hearted gestures. Key Takeaways Team alignment is everything - when everyone's on the same page, service fails are less likely. Props away, studio pristine - it's the little prep things so easy to forget that signal care. Role-play plus feedback equals service upgrade - practice phone manners or end-of-class chats. Build those connections - parents stick around (and forgive little mistakes) when they feel seen. Meet, reflect and train regularly - termly check-ins, peer-led sessions, and sharing wins. Train everyone - front desk and shy teachers, equally - service isn't just one person's job. Head to the show notes link now to grab two weeks free in Dance Principles United Tribe: your backstage pass to more storytelling, tools, and support from Amanda and Bec.  https://www.danceprincipalsunited.com/offers/4znu2MFP/checkout  

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  

This episode is a must-listen if you've ever found yourself working your butt off in the studio… only to realise you didn't get paid again this week. 😩 Amanda opens up about the moment that changed everything: when she was 21, running her studio, and realised she couldn't afford to pay herself… even though she'd just done 10x the work of her staff. Yikes. This episode dives deep into the real reason so many studio owners struggle with cash flow (even when the numbers look good on paper). We're talking about: - That gut-punch moment when Amanda vowed never to go unpaid again 💥 - Why your wage isn't a "nice to have" - it's essential - How profitable businesses still fail (yep, really) - The ego trap of overstaffing too soon - What the "Profit First" method actually means for studios - Amanda's go-to moves when cash flow gets tight (spoiler: it's not cutting costs!) - The smartest way to split your money into separate accounts - The software trick that saves you 30 hours a week without hiring admin staff If money talk makes you uncomfortable, this is exactly the episode you need. Because when you're paid well, your whole studio thrives. 👉 Special offer: Grab two weeks free inside the Dance Principals United Tribe just for tuning in. It's where the real magic (and mentoring) happens. 💛 https://www.danceprincipalsunited.com/offers/4znu2MFP/checkout 🎧 Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and drop us a comment on YouTube, we love hearing from you!

Ever dreamt of taking a proper break from your studio - like, a whole month off - but felt that sinking guilt or panic set in? In this episode, Amanda and Bec chat all about how Bec managed to take a four-week European holiday (yep, four whole weeks!) and came back to a studio that was still buzzing along beautifully. They share what had to be in place to make that happen, including systems, trust, and letting go of perfection.  Whether you're thinking about your next holiday or just need permission to step back a bit, this episode is packed with gold. In this episode: How Rebecca prepped for her 4-week break (and what she missed while away) Why long-term planning beats last-minute scrambling The key mindset shifts around guilt, trust, and taking time off Why your staff need to understand the 'why' behind your systems The magic of a "fix-it fund" (and how it frees everyone up) How clear communication protocols keep things humming The power of letting go so your team (and studio) can grow 💬 Got dreams of stepping away from your studio without chaos? Tune in to hear how it's totally possible, with the right systems and support. 🔗 Mentioned in this episode: Our Studio Growth Club for long-term planning and systems: https://www.danceprincipalsunited.com/offers/4znu2MFP/checkout