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
Bec is back from a whirlwind overseas adventure and she's got stories to share: from Pineapple Studios in London to the Amalfi Coast in Italy, and everywhere in between. Bec’s daughter, BeBe, just won Teen World Dancer of the Year at the World Dance Movement comp (go Beebs!), and the experience was nothing short of life-changing. From self-choreographing her street routine to being scouted by a US agent and racking up scholarships, BeBe's success got us reflecting on what it really takes to create community, opportunity, and unforgettable memories for our students. You’ll also hear about: The podcast’s first French listeners (bonjour!) Why Pineapple Studios was packed with recreational kids on a Sunday Ideas for turning your studio into a weekend destination The behind-the-scenes of a global comp that felt more like a family reunion The surprisingly emotional moment BeBe returned home to a studio surprise party How to level up your own studio events with simple, connection-first ideas Plus, we some studio takeaways that could shake up how you approach your next concert or comp season. 👉 Are you in The Tribe yet? We’re diving deeper into this convo and sharing behind-the-scenes pics and templates in our private group. Join us: https://www.danceprincipalsunited.com/offers/4znu2MFP/checkout
It’s a big one this week, friends! Amanda and Nathan are unpacking all the behind-the-scenes wins from their Studio Growth Club competition, and let’s just say that $30,000 extra revenue in a single week is no joke. If you've ever wondered how to make Open Week actually work for your studio, this ep is pure gold. We’re also diving into something that could totally change how studios market themselves: Australia’s new social media rules for under 16s. Yep, big changes are coming, and Amanda and Bec are here to help you stay one step ahead. Plus, there's a cheeky first-class Qantas story (thanks Nathan!) with some fab ideas for levelling up your student experience. In this episode: The Studio Growth Club strategy that’s adding $30K+ to studios in one week The right (and wrong) way to run an Open Week First-class travel hacks that double as studio service tips How the new under-16 social media ban could affect your followers Why this could actually help your marketing reach the right parents Simple tips for cutting the jargon in your studio’s messaging What elite studios might need to do to stay ahead A special two-week free Tribe offer just for listeners ✨ Heads up: Want in on that Studio Growth Club magic? DM @danceprincipalsunited on Insta. 🎁 Don’t miss your free 2-week Tribe trial, it’s the best place to grow your studio with heart and strategy: https://www.danceprincipalsunited.com/offers/4znu2MFP/checkout
Ever found yourself stuffing dinner into a lunchbox because there's no time to sit down as a family? Yep, us too. In this week’s episode, Amanda and Bec get real about how becoming dance mums changed everything: from the way they teach to the way they run their studios. Turns out, juggling comp hair and homework gives you a whole new level of empathy. They share behind-the-scenes stories from their own lives, like Amanda's daughter Zali dancing five nights a week (goodbye family dinners), Rebecca softening her stance on comp makeup for under-6s, and the reality of being seen as “just a dance mum” by new parents. If you’ve ever taught your own child, questioned your studio policies after becoming a parent, or felt the tug-of-war between home and studio life, this one’s for you. In this chat: How parenting made us less rigid (and way more understanding) Why comp mornings can break even the most organised mum What happens when your student is also your kid The tiny things that stress out parents, and how to ease them Creating safer spaces for parent-teacher convos How to spot (and stop) sneaky miscommunications ✨ Special Mention: Don’t forget to check out the Dance Principals United Tribe for your two weeks free, the safe, supportive space for studio owners just like you: https://www.danceprincipalsunited.com/offers/4znu2MFP/checkout
What’s it really like growing up in a dance studio...especially when your mum owns it? In this raw, funny, and heartfelt episode, Amanda sits down with BeBe Liu-Brennan (daughter of studio owner and Dance Principals United Podcast co-host, Miss Bec) for a deep dive into the real life of a studio kid. From early-stage recitals at 18 months old to teaching classes and prepping for Europe, BeBe shares the highs, lows, and surprising lessons she’s learned from being immersed in the dance world her entire life. They chat about: What most people don’t understand about studio kids How BeBe handles pressure, parent whispers, and proving herself in front of the line Her dreams of being a pop star and business owner (yes, she’s already thinking like a CEO at 15) The powerful mindset tricks she’s learned from watching her mum in action Why she treats her Instagram like a business, and why your students probably should too This one is for every studio owner who’s ever worried they’re not doing enough as a parent, and every young dancer figuring out who they are beyond the barre. 📣 SPECIAL OFFER FOR LISTENERS: Want more real talk and real support? Grab 2 weeks free in Dance Principles United Tribe: https://www.danceprincipalsunited.com/offers/4znu2MFP/checkout
Your midyear concert just gave you a goldmine of content, connection and insight, so why let it disappear into the term 3 chaos? In this episode, Amanda and Bec unpack exactly how to turn this year’s concert into a full-blown marketing strategy for 2026. We share real stories (yes, including that bus story), smart content ideas you can still grab right now, and the exact plan we use to make midyear magic last way beyond one night on stage. Whether your concert was perfect, or perfectly chaotic, there are powerful lessons sitting in it (if you know where to look.) We cover: Why backstage content works better than on-stage photos What to capture for maximum reach and real engagement How to turn parent + kid moments into powerful transformation reels How to brief teens, staff, or even yourself to get better content Our best tricks for capturing testimonials and creating buzz for next year This episode will help you stop thinking of your concert as a one-time event and start using it as the starting line for future enrolments, engagement and growth. 📣 SPECIAL OFFER FOR LISTENERS: Want more real talk and real support? Grab 2 weeks free in Dance Principles United Tribe: https://www.danceprincipalsunited.com/offers/4znu2MFP/checkout DPU Tribe | Studio Growth Club #DancePrincipalsUnited #DanceStudioLife #PodcastForDancers #StudioGrowth #DanceCommunity #DanceStudioSuccess #MarketingForDanceStudios #IdealClient #GrowYourStudio
Amanda and Bec are going unfiltered as they reflect on some of the toughest situations they've faced as studio owners: from heartbreaking student departures to challenging staff dynamics and one very expensive legal wake-up call. This one’s for every studio owner who's been there, or is there right now. You’ll hear us talk about: What it really feels like to lose a long-term student you've poured your heart into Why letting go of toxic team members might be the best move you ever make How Amanda turned staff sabotage into an opportunity (and met the teacher who would one day buy her studio!) Bec’s $40,000 lesson in misclassifying staff and why every studio owner needs to hear this cautionary tale Why we must stop bending over backwards to keep people who are already halfway out the door “Pause on a positive”: the perspective shift that’ll change how you handle the hard stuff A must-listen for: Studio owners navigating hard conversations, tough team calls, or the aftermath of hurtful exits — and anyone ready to take their power back and grow through what they go through. 📣 SPECIAL OFFER FOR LISTENERS: Want more real talk and real support? Grab 2 weeks free in Dance Principles United Tribe: https://www.danceprincipalsunited.com/offers/4znu2MFP/checkout DPU Tribe | Studio Growth Club #DancePrincipalsUnited #DanceStudioLife #PodcastForDancers #StudioGrowth #DanceCommunity #DanceStudioSuccess #MarketingForDanceStudios #IdealClient #GrowYourStudio
Amanda and Bec sit down in person (yes, together in the same room!) to share the real behind-the-scenes moments that changed the course of their studios forever. From rock bottom bank accounts to million-dollar property deals, they’re unpacking the highs, the lows, and the big lessons learned along the way. If you're a studio owner looking for clarity, inspiration, or just a reminder that you're not alone on this wild ride this episode is for you. You'll hear: The pivotal moment Amanda’s mentor gave her some tough love (and what she did next that changed everything) Why shifting focus to preschoolers helped scale her numbers like crazy The surprising turning point that started with a need to prove everyone wrong The big scary risk of buying a commercial studio property with a newborn and no backup plan Bec's journey to owning a home solo (and how it made her rethink every financial decision) The unfiltered truth about going “all in” on competitions and why she’s still unsure it’s the right move Special Listener Offer Love what you’re hearing? We’ve got something just for you! Podcast listeners get 2 weeks FREE inside Dance Principles United Tribe - click here to claim yours! DPU Tribe | Studio Growth Club #DancePrincipalsUnited #DanceStudioLife #PodcastForDancers #StudioGrowth #DanceCommunity #DanceStudioSuccess #MarketingForDanceStudios #IdealClient #GrowYourStudio
This week Amanda and Bec dive deep into the importance of identifying, training, and supporting young assistant teachers in your studio. From early conversations to ongoing feedback, they share practical ways to build confident, capable leaders who often become the heart of your teaching team. Here’s what they covered: Start young and be intentional: Don’t wait until a student is “ready.” If you see potential in a 12–14-year-old, start the conversation early. Give them encouragement and let their parents know you see something special. Training is non-negotiable: Assistant teachers should never be thrown into classes without guidance. Ongoing training, feedback from lead teachers, and regular check-ins are vital to helping them thrive. Body language matters: Smile! Young students interpret resting or serious faces as anger or disapproval. Teach your assistants how their facial expressions and posture affect the energy of the class. Use your team: You don’t need to do all the training yourself. Bring in superstar teachers who model the right energy and attitude to run short workshops or lead sessions with your junior team. Create a clear pathway: Talk regularly with your assistants about what they want to do long term, whether it’s choreography, studio management, or teaching full-time. Help them see that a career in dance is both real and rewarding. Get parents on board: Keep parents informed about the growth you see in their child. It builds trust and helps them view dance teaching as a valid and meaningful profession. It’s also a retention strategy: Students who feel seen, valued, and involved, especially teens, are more likely to stay with your studio. Leadership opportunities like assisting or running events give them a reason to stay connected. Tailor roles to strengths: Not every great assistant is a top technical dancer. Some excel because they’re confident, nurturing, or naturally great communicators. Celebrate and develop those strengths too. Remember: the assistant teacher you nurture today might just become your most loyal and passionate team member for the next decade. DPU Tribe | Studio Growth Club #DancePrincipalsUnited #DanceStudioLife #PodcastForDancers #StudioGrowth #DanceCommunity #DanceStudioSuccess #MarketingForDanceStudios #IdealClient #GrowYourStudio
In this episode of the Dance Principles United Podcast, we're diving deep into creative ways to boost revenue in your studio without needing to add more weekly classes. From birthday parties to discos, corporate team building to holiday workshops, these strategies aren't just about income, they also build community, create memorable experiences, and help your team shine. Key Takeaways: Uniforms & Costumes – Learn how to simplify, profit from, and streamline uniform and costume orders while making life easier for families. Birthday Parties – Whether you’re all-in or prefer a “set and forget” system, birthday parties can generate income and get new kids into your space. Corporate Team Building – Tap into a surprising market by offering creative workshops for corporate teams, even just by word of mouth. Staff-Led Initiatives – Empower your team to lead events and classes outside the normal schedule, generating extra income for them and your business. Holiday Workshops – From Taylor Swift themes to Mermaid Days, rinse-and-repeat school holiday workshops are a game-changer with the right systems. Discos & Parent Date Nights – Turn a fun event for kids into a night off for parents and a new enrolment funnel for your studio. Whether you’re just starting out or ready to grow, this episode is packed with practical tips and proven strategies to help you build smart, scalable income streams around your existing operations. DPU Tribe | Studio Growth Club #DancePrincipalsUnited #DanceStudioLife #PodcastForDancers #StudioGrowth #DanceCommunity #DanceStudioSuccess #MarketingForDanceStudios #IdealClient #GrowYourStudio
In this episode, Bec chats with Trudy Skippen, a much-loved studio owner and member of the Studio Growth Club. Trudy shares her story of taking over Belmont Dance Centre in 2018 and the ups and downs of running a dance business. 🎧 In this episode, you’ll hear about: Trudy’s move from teacher to studio owner The biggest challenges she faced early on How working on her mindset made a big difference Why community and connection are so important in her studio The way she supports nervous preschool parents and children How her new preschool readiness program helps kids feel more confident and prepared This episode is a must-listen if you want to create a warm, welcoming space for families and grow a strong, supportive business. DPU Tribe | Studio Growth Club #DancePrincipalsUnited #DanceStudioLife #PodcastForDancers #StudioGrowth #DanceCommunity #DanceStudioSuccess #MarketingForDanceStudios #IdealClient #GrowYourStudio
Join Bec and Nathan for a dive deep into the world of Facebook and Instagram advertising for your dance studio. They break down complex marketing strategies into simple, actionable steps, showing you how to effectively attract new students through targeted social media ads. This episode is packed with practical advice, real-world examples, and insider tips to help you grow your dance business in an increasingly competitive market. Key Takeaways: Marketing is crucial for dance studios in 2025 Students are more likely to switch activities, so view this as an opportunity Social media is your "shop window" to attract new clients Facebook/Instagram ads are an affordable way to reach local families DPU Tribe | Studio Growth Club #DancePrincipalsUnited #DanceStudioLife #PodcastForDancers #StudioGrowth #DanceCommunity #DanceStudioSuccess #MarketingForDanceStudios #IdealClient #GrowYourStudio