18 | Running Programs since 1985! Lessons in Longevity and Service-based Entrepreneurship with Jeannette Sermak-Proulx

One of the most effective growth strategies in kids enrichment isn't a new marketing tactic. It's picking up the phone. In this episode, Arielle is joined by Jeannette Sermak-Proulx, founder of Plaza Production One Mobile Dance Studio, to talk about how she built her business through relationships, consistency, and a commitment to serving families and schools. They discuss earning partnerships before the internet, bringing programs directly to children through a mobile model, hiring great instructors, and managing the cash flow challenges that come with enrichment programs. They also talk about what it takes to stay in business for decades in an industry where many operators don't make it past the first few years. If you're building an enrichment business, you'll find plenty of practical lessons in this conversation.  Enjoying the conversation? Subscribe to The Enrichment Entrepreneur for more candid conversations with operators, founders, and industry leaders shaping the future of kids enrichment. For additional resources and community support, visit getenrops.com/podcastEpisode Highlights07:00 Why picking up the phone is still an unfair advantage in partnership development10:13 The branded cookie strategy that helps Jeannette stand out with school leaders15:21 Why Plaza Production One chose a mobile model instead of a traditional dance studio17:36 What it takes to stay in business for decades when most enrichment companies don't make it past five years26:49 Jeannette's hiring process for finding and retaining high-quality instructors33:16 Cash flow lessons every enrichment operator needs to understandResources mentioned- Plaza Production One Mobile Dance Studio: https://plazaproductionone.com- enrops: Dr. Arielle Hammond is building the all-in-one platform this industry has been missing. We’re talking scheduling, instructor management, and parent communication all in one place. I built it because we need it. Go to getenrops.com to get on the list.Guest bioJeannette Sermak-Proulx is the Founder and CEO of Plaza Production One Mobile Dance Studio. For decades, she has helped bring dance education directly to schools and communities through a mobile model designed to make the arts more accessible for children and families. Her work combines a passion for dance, relationship-centered leadership, and a commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for young people through enrichment programs. Where to Find JeannetteYou can learn more about Jeannette Sermak-Proulx and Plaza Production One Mobile Dance Studio by visiting plazaproductionone.com. There, you'll find information about their mobile dance programs, enrichment offerings, and ways to connect directly with Jeannette and her team. That's a wrap. If this episode gave you something — an idea, a laugh, a story — share it with one person who needs it. Leave us a five star review because it helps other enrichment entrepreneurs find this show. Got a question or a story worth telling? Head to getenrops.com/podcast — you can submit your questions, apply to be a guest, and access resources to help you launch and grow your business. Again, that's getenrops.com/podcast. Until next time — keep learning, keep building.