PODCAST · business
Dance Studio Advertising | The Podcast
by Bryce Conlan & Kristian Altuve
Growing a dance studio is hard. You've got a dozen spinning plates, zero time, and what's working in marketing is constantly changing. Join Dance Motion Marketing founders Bryce and Kristian as they share expert insights, actionable strategies, and game-changing techniques for maximizing student enrollment and Dance Studio growth. If you're ready to level up your dance studio, have more students than ever before, and bank record profits then subscribe and keep listening. Here we grow.
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94
The Recital Profit Mistake Costing Dance Studios Thousands Every Year
Most dance studio owners think recital season is about costumes, choreography, and surviving the chaos.But what if recital season is actually your biggest opportunity to increase retention, improve cash flow, and strengthen your studio culture?In this episode, Bryce Conlan sits down with Melanie Durham — former studio owner, dance judge, and part of the Class Manager + StageStubs ecosystem — to unpack the biggest mistakes studio owners make during recital season.They dive into recital pricing, mandatory participation, payment plans, costume deposits, parent psychology, retention strategy, and why many studios unknowingly leave thousands of dollars on the table every year.If you’ve ever struggled with recital fees, parent pushback, or profitability, this conversation will completely change how you think about recital season.🎧 Follow + review the show if this episode helped you think differently about growing your studio.
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93
We Tracked 6 Studios for 90 Days… This Changed Everything
Most dance studio owners know they should be posting on social media… but almost none are doing it in a way that actually drives enrollments.In this episode, we break down why organic social media isn’t just “nice to have”—it’s a critical growth lever that directly impacts your visibility, credibility, and even your ad performance.You’ll learn why inconsistent posting quietly erodes trust, how daily content builds momentum with the algorithm, and the exact 4-part content strategy that keeps parents engaged and clicking.We also share real data from Dance Motion Marketing clients showing how strong social media presence can lower cost per lead and increase conversions from paid ads.If social media feels overwhelming, this episode will reframe it—and show you a smarter, more strategic way forward.Follow + review the show if this helped you think differently about growth 🎧
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92
Why ‘Competitors’ Are a Distraction (And What Actually Doubles Studio Revenue)
Most dance studio owners think competition is the problem.It’s not.In this episode, Bryce Conlin breaks down why “competition” is often just a distraction—and how this mindset quietly sabotages your growth, pricing, culture, and retention.After working with 450+ dance studios, a clear pattern has emerged: the studios that win aren’t louder, cheaper, or more reactive… they’re simply better aligned with what their community actually wants.You’ll learn:Why parents don’t actually buy dance classesThe hidden cost of obsessing over other studiosHow to build a culture and offer that makes you impossible to replaceThe one metric that matters more than pricing or proximityIf you’ve ever felt threatened by another studio opening nearby, this episode will reset your thinking—and show you exactly where to focus instead.Follow + review the show if this shifts your perspective 🎧
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91
Every Studio Says They’re "Different"… But Here’s Why They’re Not
Most dance studio owners believe they’re “different.”But when you look closer… the messaging, pricing, and positioning all sound the same.In this episode, Bryce breaks down why trying to be better than your competitors is actually what’s keeping you stuck—forcing you into price wars, burnout, and commoditization.You’ll learn why parents can’t evaluate “better technique,” what they actually respond to, and how small, strategic shifts in your offer can completely change how your studio is perceived.This isn’t about working harder. It’s about positioning smarter.If you’re tired of blending in and competing on price, this episode will show you how to create real differentiation—so you can attract more students without copying what everyone else is doing.Follow + review the show if this sparked a new way of thinking.
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90
You’re Not Stuck—You’re Invisible (And It’s Costing You Years of Growth)
If your dance studio feels stuck… it’s probably not your market.It’s your visibility.In this episode, Bryce Conlin breaks down the biggest myth holding studio owners back—the belief that “there just aren’t enough students” in their area. The truth? Demand already exists. You’re just not consistently showing up where it matters.You’ll learn:Why studios plateau (even in growing communities)The difference between being seen vs. knownHow consistent lead generation changes everythingThe simple system that turns visibility into enrollmentsPlus, a real-world story of a studio stuck at 68 students for years… that suddenly generated 10 leads in 2 days.If you want predictable growth, this is required listening.------Need help? Sign up for a free studio growth strategy call. 👉 join.dancemotionmarketing.com/help
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89
The Hidden Risk in Dance Competitions No One Is Talking About
Dance studios are sitting on a problem most don’t even realize exists.In this episode, Bryce Conlan sits down with Jamie Hodgins, founder of ICDR, to unpack the hidden risks around dancer data, media privacy, and fairness in competitive dance.From unsecured media access to unverified competitor data, the current system leaves studios, parents, and dancers exposed. And most of it has been quietly accepted as “just the way things are.”But that’s changing.Jamie introduces a new model: a centralized dancer ID system designed to protect media, verify identities, and create a single source of truth across competitions, studios, and platforms.This isn’t just about compliance—it’s about elevating dance to the level of legitimacy seen in traditional sports.If you care about dancer safety, parent trust, and the future of your studio, this conversation matters.Register for the free event here 👇https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/gcx6SaaYTD-IS_Gd9NEVxg#/registrationFollow + review the show, and share this episode with a studio owner who needs to hear it.
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88
The Hidden Cost of “Good Ideas” in Your Dance Studio
Every studio owner starts the year with clarity—more students, better systems, more freedom.But somewhere along the way… things drift.In this episode, Bryce Conlan breaks down why being busy doesn’t mean you’re making progress—and how “good” ideas can quietly pull you away from what actually grows your dance studio.You’ll learn:Why most studio owners miss their goals (even with the best intentions)How to identify “side quests” that waste time and energyThe real cost of losing focus—financial, operational, and emotionalA simple framework to reset, refocus, and finish the year strongIf you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or like you’re working hard without traction—this episode will hit home.Because the problem isn’t laziness. It’s misalignment.And the solution is simpler than you think.Follow + review the show if this episode helped you refocus 🎧
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87
Would Your Dance Studio Survive?
Last week I disappeared from my business.Not by choice.A family emergency forced me to step away from Dance Motion Marketing… and yet the company kept running.Ads continued. Leads were followed up with. Sales calls happened. Clients got results.Why?Because of systems.Most dance studio owners are the marketing department, the sales team, and the customer service desk. When something happens — illness, burnout, family needs, even a vacation — everything stalls.In this episode, I break down what a real business system actually is (hint: it’s not software).A system is people + process.You’ll learn:Why most studio businesses are fragile without realizing itThe simplest way to document your processes using video + AIThe 4-step training method we use at Dance Motion MarketingThe first systems every studio owner should buildIf you want freedom without sacrificing growth, this episode is a must.Follow and review the show to help more studio owners build businesses that serve their lives — not consume them.
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86
Why Parents Walk Out After a “Great” Trial Class
Most dance studio owners think they have a lead problem.They don’t.They have a follow-up and confidence problem.In this episode of Dance Studio Advertising, Bryce Conlan breaks down why studios converting at 20% believe their marketing is failing—while studios converting at 60–70% are simply better at asking for the sale.You’ll learn:Why word-of-mouth leads convert at 70–90%Why ad leads should still close at 40–70%The “Praise. Vision. Ask.” enrollment frameworkHow silence increases conversionsThe follow-up cadence that keeps you top-of-mind for months (even a year)If parents are walking out after great trial classes, it’s not the economy. It’s the enrollment conversation.There is revenue sitting in your CRM right now.This episode will show you how to unlock it.Follow + review the show if this shifts your thinking.
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85
Creative Entrepreneurs and the Fear of Making Money
Most dance studio owners don’t struggle with passion.They struggle with profit.In this episode, I sit down with Hillary Parnell, founder of Dance Photo Pro and owner of one of North Carolina’s largest studios (1,100+ students), to talk about a revenue opportunity hiding in plain sight: bringing dance class photography in-house.We unpack the real issue creative entrepreneurs face — the “money story” that makes profit feel uncomfortable — and why that mindset is costing studio owners thousands.Hillary shares how studios are generating $5,000–$8,000 per 100 students from picture day alone — often $10K+ right before summer cash flow dips.If you’ve ever felt frustrated watching vendors walk away with revenue you helped create, this episode will challenge your thinking and show you a smarter way.This is about more than photos. It’s about ownership, leverage, and building a studio that actually pays you.Follow + review the show if this sparked something. 🎧
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84
How to Turn Recital Season Into a Growth Machine
Recital season isn’t your business.But treating it like it is might be the most expensive mistake you make all year.Every spring, dance studio owners hit pause on enrollment. They stop taking new students. They focus on costumes, competition, venues—and unknowingly create a 6-month revenue gap that shrinks summer and weakens fall enrollment.In this episode, Bryce Conlan breaks down why recital season should serve your business—not stall it—and how mid-season enrollment can become your biggest competitive advantage.You’ll discover:• Why saying “no” now hurts summer cash flow • How to outgrow competitors who stop enrolling • Simple ways to add students without disrupting recital prep • The strategic power of mini-sessions and non-recital tracksThis isn’t about hustle. It’s about leverage.If you want stronger summer revenue, bigger fall enrollment, and a studio that feels alive year-round, this conversation matters.Follow + review the show to help more studio owners grow smarter. 🎧
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83
From 19 Drops to +50 Students: Angie Craft’s Enrollment Breakthrough
What if your biggest enrollment season wasn’t September — but January?In this episode, Angie Craft shares how her studio added 50 students in just a few weeks — even after 19 drops in December. You’ll learn how she turned open houses into high-converting machines, used word-of-mouth as a strategic asset, and created a culture so strong that waitlists became her norm.Angie doesn’t just reveal tactics — she breaks down the mindset and infrastructure needed to handle fast growth without burnout. From retargeting old leads to onboarding 35 new families mid-season, this is the real behind-the-scenes of a modern studio success story.→ Follow + review the show to unlock more real-world growth insights from top-performing studios.
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82
The Tools Top Studios Are Using to Save Time, Fill Classes & Boost Revenue - Part 2
What if the very tools you’re relying on to grow your dance studio… are holding you back?In this episode, we go behind the scenes with key software vendors in the dance studio space. From CRM and point-of-sale systems to scheduling tools and communication platforms — we unpack the decisions that can either streamline your studio’s growth or silently sabotage it.You’ll hear unfiltered insights, tough questions, and honest discussions about what’s working, what’s not, and what studio owners really need to know before signing a contract.If you've ever felt confused by tech options, burned by poor support, or overwhelmed by systems that promised more than they delivered — this episode is for you.Follow + review the show if you’re serious about building a high-performance, low-stress studio that scales.
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81
The Tools Top Studios Are Using to Save Time, Fill Classes & Boost Revenue - Part 1
Studio owners — this episode is a goldmine.Recorded live at SOU in San Diego, Bryce interviews key vendors shaping the future of dance studios — from Jackrabbit’s Amber Smith to the minds behind Enrollio, Ludus, and the new ICDR system.Discover:Why shorter sessions are no longer a trend, but the new normHow to stop leaking leads with better automation (without losing the human touch)The hidden ROI of SMS over emailRevenue secrets inside recital ticketing & event merchandisingWhy child data security is becoming non-negotiable — and how the ICDR is leading the chargeThis isn’t theory — it’s real-world insight from companies serving thousands of studios.→ Follow + review the show to stay ahead of the curve.
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80
The Studio With 999 Students: (... And Mandy's top takeaway from the weekend)
What does it really take to grow a studio from 750 to nearly 1,000 students—and sustain it?In this episode, Bryce Conlan sits down with two remarkable studio owners live at SOU to uncover the exact strategies that led to massive growth, resilience, and long-term impact.You’ll hear how Shayna leveraged niche programs and media exposure to grow over 33%, and how Mandy Moore doubled down on culture and staffing to rebuild post-pandemic. This is a rare behind-the-scenes look at what’s actually working in studios today—from toddler programs to team leadership to legacy-building.Whether you’re scaling or just trying to stay afloat, you’ll walk away with fresh clarity and actionable insight.🎧 Follow + review the show to catch future episodes!
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79
This Crazy SOU Idea Will Totally Flop Without Your Help!
Tired of the hard-sell chaos at dance conferences? So are we.In this bold new episode, we're flipping the script at Studio Owner University. No booths. No pitches. Just real conversations with real studio owners—captured live, right outside the general session doors.Instead of pushing products, we're pulling out truth. What’s working? What’s not? What’s keeping studio owners going in today’s landscape?If you or someone you know is attending SOU, this is your invitation to step into the DMM Podcast Lounge and share your story. Because the most powerful lessons don’t come from vendors—they come from peers in the trenches.🎤 This is more than a podcast—it’s a movement.🎧 Follow + review the show to amplify the voices that matter.
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78
The Super Bowl for Dance Studios: Why Recital Day Is Everything
What if recital day was your studio’s Super Bowl—not just for performance, but for growth?In this heartfelt and practical episode, Julie Kay joins Bryce to share her game-day mindset, tactical recital systems, and emotional intelligence that transform chaos into magic. They break down why recital isn’t just another event—it’s your biggest marketing opportunity, retention driver, and memory-maker.You’ll learn how to prepare dancers, parents, and staff for success; how to simplify logistics; and why a little glitter (and a lot of intention) can change everything.Whether you’re burned out or fired up, this episode will reset your perspective and reignite your passion. 🎯Follow + review the show to stay ahead of the dance studio marketing game.
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77
The Ultimate Trial Event Playbook: 12 Tactics to Max Out Enrollment
Most studio owners obsess over promoting their open houses—yet completely wing the actual event. That’s a costly mistake.In this episode, Bryce Conlan unveils the complete blueprint for turning a one-day trial event into a high-converting enrollment machine. You'll learn how to structure your day with purpose, create irresistible offers, and use strategic FOMO to drive signups on the spot. These insights come straight from Dance Motion Marketing’s internal client mastermind—where studios are enrolling 30, 50, even 60+ dancers in a single day.Whether you run trials, open houses, or demo days, this episode shows you how to stop “hoping” for signups—and start engineering them.Follow + review the show to get ahead of next year’s campaign.
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76
12 Months of Marketing, Mapped in One Power Session
What if your entire year of studio marketing could be mapped in just 25 minutes?In this episode, Bryce Conlan gives you the exact 12-month calendar strategy used by the fastest-growing dance studios. You'll learn how to plan campaigns ahead of the chaos, enroll students in every season—not just fall—and finally feel ahead of the game.Whether you're running short sessions, launching summer camps, or prepping for recital season, this system helps you fill classes without burning out. Simple, repeatable, and proven to work.Follow + review the show to stay one step ahead all year long.
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75
The 90-Day Focus: How to Grow Without Burnout in 2026
Studio owners don’t fail because they dream too small—they fail because their goals are emotionally cluttered and operationally unclear. In this holiday reset episode, Bryce Conlan walks you through a smarter, saner approach to goal setting that avoids burnout and builds real momentum.You’ll learn why more goals mean more stress, how to define a “season of focus,” and the 3-question test that filters fluff from high-impact growth. Plus, Bryce shares the story of a studio owner who doubled her dancers with one clear priority.If you’re ready to simplify, refocus, and make 2026 your studio’s best year yet, this episode is your starting line.Follow + review the show to stay sharp all year long.
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74
When Fair Becomes Foolish: The Hidden Cost of People-Pleasing
What if the real issue in your studio isn’t how hard your staff works—but how unfairly you treat yourself?In this episode, we flip the script on fairness. Most studio owners bend over backwards to be “fair” to their team… while silently tolerating burnout, resentment, and blurred boundaries. But here’s the truth: if your systems are built on self-sacrifice, they will eventually collapse.Inside:Why overaccommodating your team creates long-term dysfunctionThe hidden double standard studio owners rarely seeHow to reset expectations—and build a culture that’s fair to everyoneThis is a must-listen if you’ve ever thought, “I just want to be fair,” but end up feeling taken advantage of. Fairness isn’t about doing more for others—it’s about designing a system that works for you, too.Follow + review the show to get new episodes every week.
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73
The Tyranny of the Clock: The Real Reason Parents Say No
Parents aren’t flaky—they’re drowning. In this episode, Bryce Conlan unpacks the cultural shift behind the “too busy” epidemic and how it’s silently sabotaging your enrollment, retention, and follow-up. You'll discover why traditional studio models are clashing with modern family bandwidth—and what smart studios are doing instead.Learn the 3 hidden reasons parents feel overwhelmed, why simplicity is your new superpower, and how to reframe your offers for today’s exhausted buyers. Whether you're seeing higher drop rates, ghosting trials, or resistance to commitment, this episode gives you the clarity and tools to adapt—without lowering your standards.Follow + review the show to stay sharp, strategic, and ahead of the curve.
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72
She Bought a Dance Studio at 21—Now It Pays for Her Retirement
When Dotty Hancock took over a dance studio fresh out of college, she inherited a pile of bills, no reserves, and zero financial training.Fast forward 25 years—she’s debt-free, owns her building, pays herself well, and has turned her business into a long-term wealth engine.In this episode, Dotty and Bryce unpack:The financial trap most studio owners fall intoWhy charging “just enough” is costing you everythingHow to break free from credit card dependenceAnd what it takes to build a business that funds your futureDotty doesn’t teach theory—she lives this. If you’ve ever felt stressed about money or unsure how to scale your studio with stability, this episode is your next step.🎧 Follow + review the show for more dance studio growth strategies.
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71
The ROI of Thankfulness
In this special Thanksgiving episode, Bryce Conlan shares a transformative truth: gratitude isn’t just a feeling—it’s a strategic leadership tool. When enrollment is down, bills are up, and burnout looms, practicing thankfulness can feel optional or even fake. But that’s exactly when it’s most powerful.You’ll discover how gratitude resets your brain, shifts your decision-making, and turns reactivity into resilience. Backed by science and real studio stories, this episode reveals how focusing on what’s working—even in chaos—creates momentum, leadership clarity, and morale.If you’ve felt stuck, overwhelmed, or on the verge of burnout, this is the mindset reset you didn’t know you needed.Follow + review the show to get more tactical and transformational insights every week.
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70
Facebook just broke your ads...
Facebook just changed everything—and most studio owners don’t know it yet. In this episode, Bryce Conlan and DMM co-founder Kristian Altuve break down Meta’s silent rollout of the “Andromeda” algorithm update that’s quietly killing ad performance for dance studios.You’ll learn what’s really behind the skyrocketing ad costs and disappearing leads, why your targeting tactics no longer work, and how to adapt fast using “creative portfolios” and full-lifecycle marketing.This isn’t about panic—it’s about positioning. If you run Facebook ads (or plan to), this episode is your essential roadmap to stay profitable in 2025.Follow + review the show to stay ahead of the curve—and protect your studio’s growth.
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69
Pretty Ads, Crappy Results: Stop Polishing the Wrong Thing
What’s more important—beautiful branding or bold results?In this episode, Bryce Conlan breaks down a crucial but overlooked truth: many dance studios are losing leads because they prioritize pretty over performance. From misleading Canva templates to confusing offers, studio owners often sabotage their own growth without realizing it.You’ll learn why clarity crushes cleverness, how a “bad-looking” ad can outperform a polished one, and the three mindset shifts every serious studio owner must make to scale. Whether you're running Facebook ads or refining your free trial offer, this episode will challenge your assumptions and sharpen your strategy.🎯 This isn’t theory—these insights are drawn from 600+ real-world ad campaigns.Follow + review the show if you’re ready to grow with data, not decoration.
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68
How to Not Go Broke When the Economy Shuts Down
Most studio owners retreat during economic downturns. But the smart ones? They double down—and grow.In this powerful episode, Bryce Conlan reveals why fear-based decisions kill momentum and how visibility is the real currency in uncertain times. You'll hear real stories of studios that grew—dramatically—by zigging while others zagged. Learn the 3 mindset shifts that separate high-performing owners from the rest, why cutting your ad budget is a silent killer, and how to turn existing students into a 50% revenue boost.If you're serious about growth—even in a slow economy—this episode is your roadmap.Follow + review the show to never miss an episode.
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67
From Skeptic to Sold Out: This Simple Holiday Offer Attracted 35 New Students...in 10 days
What if one five-week offer could bring in 35 new students—even if you think your schedule is full?In this episode, I sit down with Susan Florkiewicz, a veteran studio owner of 37 years, to unpack how her first-ever winter mini session sold out two classes in just 10 days. She shares why she initially doubted it would work, what turned the tide, and how she generated real revenue and re-enrollments without touching her main programs.You’ll hear how she positioned it as a gift-worthy holiday experience, got grandparents excited to purchase, and how she's rethinking her entire enrollment strategy.If you've ever thought, “I don’t have time, space, or staff for anything extra,” you need this episode.Follow + review the show for more real-world growth strategies.
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66
$59,000 in Discounts?! The Pricing Mistake That’s Gutting Your Profit
What if the biggest threat to your studio's success isn’t enrollment—but how you manage your money?In this episode, I sit down with studio owner and studio life coach Ginger Haithcox to unpack the real financial struggles dance studio owners face—from not paying themselves to drowning in discount culture. Ginger breaks down the path to building a business that’s peaceful, profitable, and sustainable—even if you're starting with messy books and zero margins.We cover revenue vs. profit, why budgeting isn’t punishment, and how to pay yourself even if your numbers are scary right now. Whether you’re undercharging, over-discounting, or simply stuck in survival mode—this is your wake-up call.Follow + review the show for more grounded, high-impact conversations like this one.
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65
How to Create Dance Studio Ads That Actually Get Students
If your dance studio ads aren’t delivering leads, it’s not the algorithm—it’s the content and offer.In this episode, Kristian Altuve (Co-founder & Client Success Lead at Dance Motion Marketing) reveals the two most overlooked elements that make or break studio advertising: scroll-stopping content and irresistible offers. You’ll learn why focusing on kids under 12 is your ad budget’s best friend, how to run a high-impact “Content Day,” and the small copy tweak that slashed lead costs from $40 to $10.Whether you're DIYing ads or working with an agency, these strategies can dramatically improve ROI and save you thousands in wasted spend.Follow + review the show to keep getting real strategies that help your studio grow 🎧
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64
The Real Cost of Cookie-Cutter Ads for Dance Studios
Most dance studios are using templated ads—and paying top dollar—for campaigns that were never built to work long-term. In this episode, Bryce Conlan breaks down the real danger of “set it and forget it” ad strategies, why they stall fast, and what smart studio owners are doing differently.You’ll learn the critical difference between templated and templatized ads, the hidden costs of high-volume vendors, and why customized advertising is the only sustainable path to real ROI.If you’ve ever felt like your ads aren’t connecting—or worse, that they look just like every other studio’s—this is your wake-up call.👉 Follow + review the show for more strategy that actually works.
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63
The $318,000 Secret: Why One Callback Changed Everything
Most studio owners know they should make follow-up calls—but the phone feels terrifying. What if they say no? What if you feel rejected?In this episode of Dance Studio Advertising, Bryce Conlan unpacks the psychology behind phone fear and shows you how to transform it into your studio’s secret weapon. You'll learn why the phone still works in 2025, how to make calls without feeling pushy, and the three critical moments every studio must call: after a trial converts, doesn’t convert, or no-shows.You’ll also hear a story about a $318,000 contract won by just calling back, and a powerful tip to boost callback rates by 66%.Afraid of the phone? This episode will shift your identity—and your enrollment numbers.👉 Follow + review the show to keep these growth strategies coming.
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62
Why "More Students" Is a Terrible Growth Strategy
Most studio owners think they need more students. But what they really need is a strategy that works—and the readiness to implement it. In this episode of Dance Studio Advertising, Bryce Conlan breaks down the myths that hold studios back, the real work growth demands, and the three qualities every successful studio owner shares: coachability, readiness to work, and a long-term vision.Whether you’re running on fumes or aiming to scale, Bryce offers practical insights to help you self-assess and make smarter decisions. He also shares real-world case studies—like how Carissa grew from 69 to 455 dancers in four years—so you know what’s truly possible when you commit.This episode is a wake-up call... and a roadmap.Follow + review the show for weekly growth insights!
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61
The 3-Step Framework That Unlocks Studio Growth Forever
Struggling to grow your dance studio? The problem isn’t enrollment—it’s leadership. In this episode, Bryce Conlan reveals the invisible ceiling that caps your studio’s success and why adding more students can actually magnify your problems.You’ll discover the 3-part formula for sustainable growth: grow yourself, grow your people, grow your business. Learn how your personal mission, values, and culture directly shape your team’s behavior, your customer experience, and your long-term results.If you’re constantly solving team drama, feeling burned out, or stuck in the day-to-day, this episode gives you the mindset and tactical shifts to break free.📞 Book your free studio growth strategy call at dancemotionmarketing.com👉 Follow + review the show for more no-fluff strategies that actually move the needle.
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60
5 Moves That Make Dance Studios Recession-Proof
If your enrollments feel soft, you're not imagining it. From falling GDP to collapsing container shipments, the early signs of economic slowdown are here—and studio owners are already feeling the squeeze.But here’s the truth: recessions don’t kill studios. Hesitation does.In this episode, Bryce Conlan breaks down the 5 critical moves to recession-proof your dance studio—using strategies forged during the pandemic and proven to drive growth when others pull back. From retention tactics to marketing mindsets, you’ll learn how to position your studio to grow even in uncertain times.Don’t cut the very thing that brings people through your door. Leverage this moment to accelerate, not retreat.Follow + review the show to stay ahead of the curve.
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59
50 Enrollments, 1 Text, Zero Discounts — Here's what I did (and what you're not doing)
Brittany Thompson didn’t run a sale. She didn’t offer a free trial. She didn’t even write a clever ad.She sent one text message—and 50 dance moms registered their kids that day.In this episode, you’ll hear exactly how she did it. No fluff. No theory. Just a real studio owner who cracked the code on follow-up and built a system that keeps working while others beg for signups.You’ll discover:The exact mindset shift that turned her studio aroundWhy most “dead leads” aren’t dead at all (you just stopped asking)How to build a culture that enrolls for you—even if you’re not watchingIf you’re tired of guessing and ready for numbers that slap, this one’s your wake-up call.🔔 Follow and review the show—because this kind of clarity doesn’t come often.
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58
Why Fall Dance Enrollments Are Down 50%—And How to Win Anyway
Fall 2025 has studio owners asking, “What am I doing wrong?” The data says: nothing. You’re swimming against macroeconomic headwinds—families spending less, enrollments down as much as 50% in many markets. In this episode, Bryce reframes your strategy: in a downturn, marketing’s job isn’t always growth—it’s preservation. Build a fortress first, then expand. You’ll learn how to separate micro vs. macro forces (so you stop blaming the wrong thing), reset targets, and deploy “maintenance marketing” that protects revenue while positioning you to capture demand rebounds—especially the January bump that can outperform September. Keywords: dance studio marketing 2025, enrollments down, macro trends vs micro trends, preservation marketing, DMM, trade war and costume pricing, inflation and family spending.Follow + review the show to help more studios hear this—and if you want a tailored plan, book a free Studio Growth Strategy Call at Dance Motion Marketing.
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57
The Truth About DropTober (And How to Stop It Forever)
Fall 2025 isn’t business as usual—it’s war for loyalty.In this episode, Bryce Conlan blows the whistle on DropTober—the quiet student exodus that blindsides studios every fall. With enrollments down and parents more selective than ever, your first 90 days with a new family aren’t just important—they’re make-or-break. Bryce unpacks how to choreograph a world-class onboarding experience that builds bulletproof retention before the drop-off ever starts.You’ll learn why moms form long-term judgments in week one, how to build a Ritz-Carlton-level studio experience, and what systems your team must have to keep new families loyal.Don’t just fill your studio—keep it full.Got questions? Get answers at dancemotionmarketing.com/askFollow + review the show to never miss an episode.
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56
Inside Energize 2025: The Unfiltered Voice of the Dance Studio Industry
At the Energize conference, Bryce Conlan hit the floor with a mic in hand—and studio owners brought the real questions. From struggling ad performance to lead quality, retention pain points to marketing overwhelm, this episode captures the raw concerns dance studio owners are facing right now.You’ll hear candid conversations about:The real ROI of Facebook and Instagram adsWhy free trials aren’t converting—and how to fix itWhat to do when a competitor poaches your dancersLow-cost strategies to boost enrollment fastBryce breaks down what’s working, what’s not, and what to focus on if your marketing feels stuck. If you’ve ever wondered, “Am I the only one dealing with this?”—this episode proves you’re not.🤔 Have a question? Ask it at dancemotionmarketing.com/ask🎧 Follow + review the show if this helped. Share it with a studio owner who needs it.
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55
Fire Faster: The Hard Truth About Keeping B Players Too Long
One wrong hire can quietly derail your entire dance studio.B players — those “good enough” team members who aren’t bad enough to fire — can drain morale, burn out your top talent, and slowly erode your culture.In this episode, I share a real behind-the-scenes story from Dance Motion Marketing about how one B player was creating chaos for our A players… and the hard decision we made to protect our team.You’ll learn:Why fit beats skill every time when hiringHow to spot the early warning signs of a B playerThe immediate steps to protect your A players and your cultureIf you want to keep your best people, this episode is a must-listen.Follow + review the show to never miss a strategy that helps your studio grow with the right team.
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54
You Asked, We Built It: Inside Dance Motion Marketing Hotline
What if you could get direct answers to your biggest studio growth questions—fast?In this bonus episode, Bryce shares a major announcement: the launch of the Dance Motion Marketing Hotline. This new tool gives studio owners a simple way to ask questions, get expert input, and unlock resources tailored to their exact needs—whether it’s marketing, retention, finances, or enrollment.You’ll hear the “why” behind this launch, who’s involved, and how it can shortcut your learning curve by tapping into the brain trust behind Dance Motion Marketing. If you've ever had a follow-up question after an episode, this is your next step.🔗 Visit dancemotionmarketing.com/ask to ask your question today.Follow + review the show to stay ahead of the curve.
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53
What 500+ Studio Owners Taught Us: 9 Game-Changing Lessons
After one year, thousands of campaigns, and tens of thousands of new dancers enrolled, Bryce Conlan reflects on the 9 deepest lessons Dance Motion Marketing has learned helping studios grow in the last 12 months. This isn’t about flashy wins—it’s about the real, often hard-earned insights that separate struggling studios from thriving ones.You’ll learn why visibility is non-negotiable, why many ads “fail,” and how the most successful studio owners think differently. From summer strategy to enrollment systems and even how AI may be hurting your messaging, this episode connects the dots.Perfect for dance studio owners serious about real growth—and a business that supports your life, not swallows it.🎧 Follow + review the show to never miss a strategy shift.
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52
Inside Rhee Gold’s DanceLife Conference: 4 Shifts Every Studio Must Make Now
Dance studios are evolving—and fast. In this episode, Bryce shares his key takeaways from Rhee Gold’s DanceLife Teacher Conference, revealing the real growth levers separating thriving studios from those falling behind.You’ll learn:Why internal miscommunication is silently killing re-enrollmentHow to calculate your marketing ROI (and why most studio owners don’t)The two essential pieces of software every modern studio needsThe hidden danger of staying inside your “studio community bubble”Whether you're overwhelmed by tech or questioning your ad results, this episode gives you clarity and a strategic lens to grow smarter. Don’t get stuck guessing—learn how to see your business clearly and make better decisions.Follow + review the show to stay sharp in a fast-changing industry.
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51
Small Studio, Big Profits: The Case Against Growth
Growth is often sold as the golden ticket for dance studios—more students, more staff, more success. But what if chasing growth is what’s actually holding you back?In this episode, Bryce Conlan challenges the growth-at-all-costs mindset and lays bare the real trade-offs that come with scaling a dance studio. You’ll discover why more dancers doesn’t always mean more freedom (or profit), and how staying small on purpose could be the smartest, most fulfilling move you make.Whether you’re at 80 students or 800, this conversation offers a sharp lens on what growth really costs—and how to choose the right path for your life and studio.🎧 Follow + review the show to never miss an episode.
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50
How Desperation Destroys Studio Growth (And What to Do Instead)
Overwhelmed, under-supported, and stuck in survival mode? You're not alone. In this episode, Bryce Conlan breaks down the three types of support available to dance studio owners—and why choosing the wrong one can quietly sabotage your growth.Learn the critical difference between community, information, and execution... and how each applies depending on your studio’s current stage. Bryce shares a cautionary tale about “Susan,” a studio owner who chose from desperation instead of intention—and paid the price.This is a must-listen if you’ve ever felt unsure about what kind of help will actually grow your studio.Follow + review the show if you’re serious about sustainable success.
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49
The 7-Day Follow-Up Sequence That BOOSTS Fall Enrollment
Most dance studios are leaking leads—and revenue—without realizing it. In this tactical episode, Bryce Conlan breaks down the hidden sales funnel failures that sabotage fall enrollment (which often drives 60–70% of your annual revenue). From the critical difference between follow-up and follow-through, to the must-have SMS/email automations, to the exact metrics you need to track weekly—this episode is your summer blueprint to getting ahead. Whether you're manually chasing every lead or relying on memory for your sales process, it’s time to fix the machine before the fall rush hits.→ Follow + review the show to never miss an episode.
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48
It's not an advertising problem... it's you (and how to fix that)
Most dance studio owners think they need better tactics. But what if the real breakthrough has nothing to do with strategy—and everything to do with identity?In this episode, Bryce Conlan challenges the “information trap” and reveals the invisible beliefs holding studio owners back. You’ll hear the personal story that rewired his mindset—and how a single conversation shifted everything.If you've ever felt like you're not cut out for business, or like you're faking it while everyone else thrives, this is the episode you need. Discover how the right tribe can transform your beliefs, boost your confidence, and unlock real growth.Follow + review the show to keep sharpening your edge every week.
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47
No, We Can’t Guarantee Results—And That’s Exactly Why We Get Them
f you’ve ever been tempted by marketing agencies promising “30 students in 30 days,” this episode is your wake-up call.Bryce Conlan, founder of Dance Motion Marketing, unpacks the truth behind guaranteed results and exposes why these offers fail real studio owners. From economic cycles to staff follow-through, he breaks down the critical variables no agency can control—and why great marketing is a two-player game. You’ll hear why some studios double or triple their enrollment while others stall—and what sets them apart.If you’re ready for real growth (not hype), this episode will sharpen your thinking and protect your studio from costly missteps.Follow + review the show to get the strategies that actually work—no gimmicks, just results.
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46
Why "Being Nice" at the Front Desk Is Costing You Thousands
Your front desk isn’t just answering phones—they’re shaping your studio’s future revenue. In this episode, Bryce Conlan reveals the hidden cost of being “nice” and why your admin team needs to think like salespeople. You’ll learn how to reframe every parent inquiry into a guided journey toward enrollment, decode the real questions behind common objections, and shift your language to build trust and belief—not just share info. Whether you're battling first-impression drop-offs or unsure how to train your front desk to close more trials, this episode gives you the mindset and method to turn polite conversations into powerful conversions.Follow + review the show if you're ready to build a front desk that actually drives enrollment.
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45
234 Studios Tell All: The #1 Growth Mistake in Dance Education
Most dance studios want full classes—but few invest like they mean it. In this data-backed episode, we reveal what the latest industry surveys say about enrollment struggles and why most studio owners are stuck in a cycle of low marketing spend and stagnant growth.You’ll discover the real reason “marketing doesn’t work,” why word of mouth isn’t a strategy, and how courageous choices—not perfect conditions—drive expansion. We also share real-world case studies, including one studio that doubled its students in just 60 days.If enrollment is your biggest challenge, this episode delivers the clarity and roadmap you need to turn things around—fast.🎯 Follow + review the show if you're serious about growth.
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Growing a dance studio is hard. You've got a dozen spinning plates, zero time, and what's working in marketing is constantly changing. Join Dance Motion Marketing founders Bryce and Kristian as they share expert insights, actionable strategies, and game-changing techniques for maximizing student enrollment and Dance Studio growth. If you're ready to level up your dance studio, have more students than ever before, and bank record profits then subscribe and keep listening. Here we grow.
HOSTED BY
Bryce Conlan & Kristian Altuve
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