Introducing NEW Revolution Rewards
Dance Studio 411
What if your next costume order came with a built-in bonus? In this episode, we sit down with Jenn Brisebois, Revolution's Lifecycle & Loyalty Marketing Manager, to break down Revolution Rewards — a brand-new, completely free loyalty program with no membership fees and no order deadlines. Jenn walks us through how studios earn points automatically on every costume and tights purchase, how those points turn into real RevCash, and the easy extra ways to rack up points before your next order. If you're a studio owner who wants more value out of every purchase you're already making, this...
info_outline
Build a Studio That Sticks
Dance Studio 411
Back-to-school season is one of the biggest opportunities for dance studios. But, it's also one of the busiest. In this episode, Jill Tirone shares why belonging is one of the most powerful drivers of retention. Learn how dress code, branded merchandise, and easy-to-use systems can help create a stronger studio culture while simplifying the experience for families. If you're looking to increase retention, strengthen studio culture, and set yourself up for a smoother fall season, this episode is for you. Key Takeaways Belonging is a retention strategy. Your most loyal families feel like...
info_outline
Recital Tips for Dancers Under Six: Setting Them Up for Success
Dance Studio 411
Recitals can feel unpredictable when your tiniest dancers take the stage, but they’re also one of your most powerful retention tools. In this episode, Jill Tirone and Patty Rielley share practical, real-life strategies to help your youngest students feel confident, prepared, and proud. From pre-recital prep to backstage management, this conversation is packed with ideas to create a positive, memorable experience for both dancers and their families. Key Takeaways Success = Fun, Not Perfection Expect the Unexpected Your Youngest Dancers Are Your Future Familiarity Builds Confidence The...
info_outline
Leading with Heart When Loyalty Isn't Guaranteed
Dance Studio 411
Running a dance studio means investing deeply in your students and families. Caring and giving it your all means you also are at risk of feeling betrayed or disappointed when they move on to another studio or step away from dance. In this heartfelt episode of Dance Studio 411, hosts Jill Tirone and Suzanne Blake Gerety explore how to lead with confidence even when loyalty isn't returned or guaranteed. Come away grounded, resilient, and empowered to keep leading with heart no matter what changes come your way. Key Takeaways Strong Systems Build Stronger Connection Personal Connection...
info_outline
Building Community Through Dance: Lessons from Park District Programs
Dance Studio 411
In this inspiring conversation, Lora Vodicka shares how she’s built thriving community-based dance programs across Chicagoland, without a brick-and-mortar studio. With years of experience working inside park districts, libraries, and community centers, Lora offers practical strategies for communication, retention, curriculum design, and budget-friendly performances that still feel meaningful and magical. Whether you run a traditional studio or teach in non-traditional spaces, you’ll walk away with simple, doable ideas to strengthen relationships, support recreational dancers, and create an...
info_outline
Smart Studio Systems with Akada's Dance Studio Software
Dance Studio 411
In this episode, we sit down with Brett Stuckey from Akada to talk about systems, efficiency, and how to eliminate the admin overwhelm that dance studio owners face daily. Brett shares how Akada’s family-run roots led to building a platform that genuinely understands studio life, plus what’s new, what’s coming, and how to make the most of your management software. Whether you’re tired of chasing unpaid tuition, struggling with email communication, or just craving a more organized system, this episode offers relief and real-world advice. Episode Time Stamps: [00:29] Meet Brett Stuckey...
info_outline
Beyond Organized: Creating Extraordinary Recital Experiences with ShowSculptor
Dance Studio 411
What if recital season didn’t have to be stressful? In this episode of Dance Studio 411, we sit down with Joe Naftal of ShowSculptor, a proud Captivate Sponsor of the Energize Conference to explore how studio owners can level up their year-end shows from organized to unforgettable. We’ll talk about efficient backstage workflows, magical family moments, and how ShowSculptor is helping studios run smoother than ever. Episode Timestamps [00:28] – Welcome & Introduction [01:44] – The Birth of ShowSculptor [04:56] – Why Smooth Shows Matter More Than Ever [07:41] – What...
info_outline
More Than Marley: Creating Safer, Smarter Dance Spaces with Energize Captivate Sponsor, Gerriets
Dance Studio 411
In this episode of Dance Studio 411, Jill Tirone chats with Bill Brown from Gerriets, a global leader in dance flooring solutions for over 75 years. They cover everything from choosing the right Marley floor to preventing injuries, cleaning and maintenance tips, and the latest innovations from Gerriets. Bill’s technical theater background and passion for helping studios shine make this a must-listen for any studio owner. Episode Timestamps [00:28] – Meet Bill Brown from Gerriets Dance Floors [01:36] – Bill’s background in technical theater and his journey with Gerriets [03:52]...
info_outline
Studio Life, Setbacks & Success: Lessons in Leadership with Dotty Hancock
Dance Studio 411
In this episode of Dance Studio 411, host Jill Tirone sits down with Dotty Hancock, owner of Dance Arts Academy in Idaho. Dottie shares her 24-year journey of building a thriving studio while balancing family, health challenges, and a major studio relocation. From starting at age 21 to navigating cancer and COVID simultaneously, Dottie opens up about what it truly takes to lead with resilience. This episode is a must-listen for studio owners facing burnout or seeking renewed inspiration and leadership clarity. Key Takeaways Start Before You’re Ready: Dotty bought her studio at 21 with no...
info_outline
Grace Under Pressure: Leading Your Studio with Humor, Heart & Flexibility with Samantha Bower
Dance Studio 411
Episode Description In this episode, Jill sits down with veteran studio owner and mentor Samantha Bower to talk about navigating the pressures of leadership with humor, heart, and flexibility. From tackling unexpected challenges and staff burnout to building joyful culture and sustaining creativity, Sam shares stories and strategies that are equal parts inspiring and practical. Key Takeaways Create Space for Rest and Recovery: Rest isn't just helpful, it's critical. The studio is intentionally closed during holidays to encourage genuine time off. Humor Is a Leadership Tool: Leading...
info_outlineAre you ready to transform your summer from a financial struggle into a season of growth and success? In this episode, we sit down with Ginger Haithcox, a seasoned dance studio owner and business coach, to discuss actionable strategies for making summer a profitable and engaging time for your studio. From setting measurable goals to offering irresistible summer programs, Ginger shares her expert insights on how to maximize revenue, retain students, and avoid burnout. Tune in to learn how to make your summer as exciting as your recital season!
Key Takeaways:
- Set Clear Summer Goals – Move beyond just breaking even and aim for profitability.
- Know Your Community – Conduct research to understand family needs and preferences.
- Offer Engaging Programs – Think beyond traditional dance classes and include full-day camps, preschool sessions, and evening workshops.
- Manage Finances Wisely – Budget strategically, set appropriate pricing, and track financial progress.
- Follow Through with Action – Plan summer offerings with the same level of detail and excitement as your recital season.
Timestamps:
- [5:23] Set specific, measurable goals for the summer rather than vague goals like "just breaking even."
- [12:29] Conduct community research to understand the needs and preferences of local families during the summer.
- [17:58] Offer a variety of summer programs, including full-day camps, half-day preschool camps, and evening/weekend classes.
- [21:36] Focus on creating a fun, camp-like experience rather than just dance technique classes.
- [26:21] Manage the financial aspects carefully, including budgeting, saving, and adjusting pricing as needed.
- [35:33] Commit to specific actions and follow through to make the summer successful.
Links Mentioned in this Episode…
Head on over to Ginger’s website and check out the course: https://www.gingerhaithcox.com/summer
Energize Conference: https://www.energizeconference.com
Sell Dancewear Online: https://www.revolutiondance.com/nimbly
ChatGPT: https://chatgpt.com
Profit First: https://mikemichalowicz.com/profit-first/
About our guest:
Ginger Haithcox is a serial entrepreneur, certified life coach, and financial expert with over 20 years of experience helping business owners achieve financial success, personal fulfillment, and sustainable growth. As a current dance studio owner, teacher, and master certified financial coach, Ginger combines firsthand entrepreneurial experience with a passion for empowering others to thrive in their businesses.
Beyond coaching, Ginger is a dynamic entrepreneur—blogger, podcaster, photographer, speaker, digital course creator, and website designer—dedicated to helping business owners streamline operations, overcome burnout, and rediscover their passion. Through her podcast, Life Coaching for Dance Studio Owners, and creative projects, she shares practical tools and innovative ideas to inspire success.
Known for her relatable, hands-on approach and proven strategies, Ginger is a sought-after mentor and speaker at conferences and events. She equips business owners with the mindset, financial confidence, and leadership skills needed to create thriving businesses that bring them both peace and profits.
Ginger's mission is to empower entrepreneurs with the clarity and tools they need to build profitable businesses while maintaining balance in their personal and professional lives.
Connect with Ginger Haithcox:
- Instagram: @haithcoxbiz
- Website: https://www.gingerhaithcox.com/
- Podcast: https://danceentreprenuers.libsyn.com/site
Rate, Review & Subscribe!
If you loved this episode, be sure to subscribe and leave us a review. Your feedback helps us continue to bring valuable content to the dance community!
Ready to make this your most successful summer yet? Hit play and start strategizing!
Running a dance studio is hard work, and growing your studio is even more of a challenge. No matter if you're just starting out—or perhaps you're a well-established owner; we understand that it's a uniquely demanding and personal business to own and operate. Be more effective and productive.
As studio owners ourselves, we've been there. But, it's also very possible to be a happy owner of a thriving dance business that you love.
Learn More About Membership: http://www.DanceStudioOwner.com/podcast