Advertise on podcast: Dance Principals United: Dance Studio Growth & Marketing Podcast

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/ 

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/