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.

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DPU Tribe | Studio Growth Club

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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