Beyond Dance: Programs That Transform Students

What would change in your studio if confidence, character, connection and leadership were intentionally built into every student’s experience? 

This week, we’re resharing a powerful conversation filled with practical ideas for building a dance studio experience that goes far beyond teaching steps. 

Jodi Shilling sits down with Loren Specht, founder of LoMastro Performing Arts Academy, Dance Mastery Institute and Virtuosity Dance Festival, to explore how intentional programming can support the whole child, strengthen faculty and improve retention. Loren shares how her WINGS character-development program, confidence coaching and behavior support systems help students feel seen, take risks and build life skills, while giving teachers practical tools to respond to classroom challenges. She also explains why positioning her studio as a curriculum-based school—not a transactional service—has changed how families perceive its value. The episode is a powerful reminder that lasting retention is built when students feel connected, teachers feel supported and parents see the studio as a meaningful partner in their child’s growth.  

What You’ll Learn 

• How to intentionally weave studio values into your curriculum 

• What Loren’s WINGS character-development program includes 

• How to adapt one program for different ages and dance subjects 

• Why visible student activities help communicate value to parents 

• How character-building programs can support connection and retention 

• Why confidence needs to be developed like a muscle 

• How confidence coaching can help dancers take more creative risks 

• Why Loren begins confidence work before students reach middle school 

• How journaling and reflection can reinforce confidence outside coaching sessions 

• A simple end-of-class exercise that helps students recognize their progress 

• How to find the right outside expert or community partner 

• Why studio owners do not need to personally lead every new initiative 

• How behavioral coaching can give dance teachers practical support 

• Why “behavior is communication” 

• How small classroom responsibilities can help students reset 

• Why solution-focused support is more effective than venting 

• How curriculum consistency strengthens the student experience 

• Why positioning your studio as a school can increase perceived value 

• How words such as “tuition,” “classes” and “education” shape parent expectations 

Jodi Shilling is the owner of Relevé Studios, an award-winning studio recognized by the Dance Studio Owners Association, the Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce and the American Business Awards. She is also the founder of Elevate School Arts, a DSOA Inner Circle Studio Growth Coach and an accomplished television, film and improv performer. 

Loren LoMastro Specht is the founder and director of LoMastro Performing Arts Academy, Dance Mastery Institute and Virtuosity Dance Festival. An experienced instructor, choreographer and curriculum developer, she is dedicated to creating intentional, whole-child dance education and supporting teachers with the tools they need to help every student succeed. 

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