Dance Studio Empire with Jen Dalton

Let me tell you about a studio owner I worked with a couple of years ago...She had great programs, talented dancers, solid marketing, but every term she was scrambling for teachers, chasing enrolments, and constantly putting out fires with staff.Her systems were okay. Her branding looked great.But the culture? That was the missing piece. And I get it—because I've been there too. And once I really nailed the culture inside my own studio, everything changed.

Term 2 is here - and while things may have settled a little after the break, let's be honest… it never really slows down, does it? You might still be getting a few late enquiries or trial bookings trickling in. The students are back in class - hopefully refreshed after a well-earned break - and let's be real, the break was probably just as important for you and your teaching team too.Depending on your calendar, you might be preparing for a mid-year performance, gearing up for exams, starting comp season, or knee-deep in costume orders already!And while we can't slow the studio down entirely, we can get better at how we manage it. That's what today's episode is all about - how to stay on track with your goals, your plans, and your leadership even when everything around you feels urgent.

Now, I know some of you love planning. You've got your highlighters ready, your Google calendar open, and a fresh notebook just waiting to be filled. And then there are others of you who loathe it. Planning can feel overwhelming, time-consuming, and let's be honest - kind of pointless when things change every five minutes in studio life.But here's what I want to say to both camps - whether you're a planner or a procrastinator, quarter planning doesn't have to be complicated. In fact, what I'm about to share with you might be the simplest framework you've ever tried.And the results?They might just surprise you!

Let's be honest - most studio owners didn't start their business to be behind a computer all day. You didn't step into this role to be buried in admin, putting out fires, or running from one urgent task to the next. You started because you love teaching. You love dance. You love mentoring and making an impact.But as the business grows, that passion often gets buried under responsibility. And I see it all the time. Studio owners who are incredible educators, full of vision - but they're stuck doing it all themselves, unsure how to step into a true leadership role without stepping away from the classroom.That's where AI comes in - not to replace you, but to support you................Want to join the Dance AI Membership?[CLICK HERE] to find out more

Today, I want to take you behind the scenes of something that's quietly, but significantly, changing the way I run my business—and the way I support studio owners just like you.It's something that helps me move faster, make better decisions, support more clients, and stay a few steps ahead in a fast-changing industry.And yes—it's AI..............................Want to know more about DANCE AI | MEMBERSHIP?[Click Here]

You want to grow, you know your studio has the potential to be bigger, more profitable, and more impactful… but there's this fear in the back of your mind. The fear that if you scale, you'll lose the heart of your studio .That if you take a step back, things will fall apart.If you grow too fast, the quality will drop, and your studio won't feelthe same.And I get it. Because your studio isn't just a business—it's your creative space. It's your passion. It's the thing you've poured your soul into. So today, we're going to talk about how to scale withoutsacrificing quality—or your sanity. Because here's the truth: Scaling isn't about doing more.It's about leading differently..............................Ready to join the mastermind?Book in for a Suitability Call [HERE]

You've heard me talk about the Mastermind, but whatactually happens inside? In this episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on how we work together, what members achieve, and why this group is different from anything else out there..................................................What a book in a call?[CLICK HERE]

If you feel like there's never enough time, this episodeis for you. We're talking about the biggest time-drainers in your studio - and the exact steps to reclaim your time without sacrificing growth.I'm going to show you the fastest way to free up 10+ hours aweek in your business—not by working harder, but by working smarter.And, because we are creatives at heart, I'm going to includesomething special in today's episode - way to bring creativity back into the running of your studio so you can find the same inspiration in your business that you do in your art.......Want to know more about AI Dance Business Assistant or join us in the Dance Studio Scaled Mastermind? DM me on instagram and we can chat.

Some studio owners spend years stuck in the day-to-day, feeling like they're always chasing their tail. Others? They find ways to scale, simplify, and create real momentum.And the difference? It's not luck. It's not about having the flashiest studio or,the biggest comp team.It all comes down to your thoughts and actions.In this episode, I break down the mindset and strategies of high-performing studio owners—how they think, make decisions, and take action to create lasting success........If this episode resonated with you and you're feeling called to step into the next phase of your business, let's chat. Book a call today, and let's see if the Mastermind is the right fit for you.

I've worked with so many studio owners who are incredible at what they do. They're passionate, they love their students, and they're willing to put in the work.But despite that, they still feel stuck.And it's not because they aren't good at their job. It'snot because they don't work hard. It's because they'remissing one key thing that makes all the difference.So today, we're diving into what's actually holding your studio back. Because once you understand this, everything changes. You'll finally see why more students alone won't solve the problem and how to shift your focus so that growth actually feels good—not exhausting......................[JOIN THE GROWTH ROOM HERE]

You've probably tried everything—more marketing, moreclasses, more hours in the studio—but you're still feeling stuck. The truth is, growing a studio isn't about doing more. It's about having the right pieces working together.I break it into three essential pieces in The Growth Room that create a scalable, thriving studio. And today, I will share the first step with you—the one shift that changes everything.But here's the catch… if you only have one or two of these pieces in place, your studio will always hit a ceiling.............[CLICK HERE TO JOIN]

Are you running your studio, or are you growing yourbusiness?If you want to scale, create more profit, and (let's bereal) have a life outside your studio, then you need to shift from doing everything yourself to building something that runs smoothly without you in every role.In this episode, we're breaking down what it really takes to step into the business-owner mindset and the key areas where you need to start thinking differently:✅ Delegation✅ Automation✅ Business structure........................Studio Growth Readiness Checklist: Are You Ready to Scalein 2025?[CLICK HERE FOR THE CHECKLIST][CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE GROWTH ROOM]

If you've ever felt like you're constantly replacing students instead of growing your numbers, this episode is for you.I'll walk you through the exactonboarding and classroom experience strategies that not only help you fill your classes but also keep students engaged for years..................................Want to join me in The Growth Room, send me a DM with the word 'Growth'.

If you've ever felt like you're spinning plates and wondering when one's going to crash, trust me—you're not alone. But here's the good news: you don't have to do it all. In 2025, I want to challenge you to do less but do it better.

Even after 30 years of running my studio, I'd still feel that familiar mix of excitement and nerves before a new dance year kicked off. If you're feeling a little on edge as you head into the new term, know this—it's completely normal. In fact, I'd say it's a good thing. It means you care, you're intentional, and you're invested in creating something great. The key isn't to let those nerves take over—it's to harness that energy and turn it into confidence and momentum.

Protecting children isn't about relying on one single thing —it's about having many different layers of protection in place. When parents bring their kids to your studio, they're doing more than signing them up for dance lessons —they're trusting you to keep them safe. That's a big deal. Now is the time to review your studio's policies and ensure they're up to standard. Resources: [DANCE ARTS ALLIANCE] Petition - Strengthen Youth Safety Legislation in Australia's Dance Industry: [CHANGE.ORG]

This episode is all about starting the new year with a fresh perspective for your studio and how embracing change can breathe new life into your business. Having a vision for where you want your studio to go is key, and sometimes that means looking at things with fresh eyes, being honest about what's working, and being brave enough to make changes. ................................ To register for Simplify & Streamline Q1 Planning Workshop [CLICK HERE] To follow on IG [CLICK HERE]

Happy, happy New Year and welcome back to the Dance Studio Empire Podcast—I hope you've had, or are still enjoying, a well-deserved break. Whether you're easing into 2025 or ready to hit the ground running, I'm so glad you're here. For those of you keen to start the year strong, I wanted to kick off with a topic that I believe will truly set apart thriving studios in 2025: Leadership.

It's New Year's Eve, and here we are, standing at the edge of a brand-new year. First, let me say thank you for tuning in on such a reflective and celebratory day. Whether you're preparing for a quiet evening, hosting friends and family, or just taking a moment to yourself before the clock strikes midnight, I'm so glad you're here.

From the bottom of my heart, I truly wish you a beautiful Christmas; full of love, connection, and a little bit of magic. And as we wrap up 2024, take a moment to ask yourself: How will I spend this final week of the year? Merry Christmas…Happy holiday

As the year winds down, it's natural to reflect on what's worked and what hasn't in your business. If you're here thinking, “I know I want more for my studio. I know something needs to change,” then this episode is for you. Mindset is one of the most powerful tools in your business. The way you think about challenges, opportunities, and even yourself can completely change the trajectory of your success. In this episode, I've put together 10 mindset shifts that can help you start 2025 strong.

It's so tempting to leave it all for “later.” But let's be honest—if you don't get some key things done now, they'll sit in the back of your mind over the holidays, robbing you of the mental break you deserve before the new dance year kicks off. So today's episode is all about simplifying…as I continue to preach… and I've compiled a checklist of essential year-end tasks to help you focus your energy on what truly matters—tasks that will benefit your retention, team, and new enrolments for next year.

In this inspiring episode, I chat with Mike Harrison-Lamond, a powerhouse dance industry advocate and the Dance Arts Alliance Vice-Chair. Mike shares his journey from studio owner to industry leader, where he's part of a team spearheading change for a new award specifically for dance and performing arts education, and safeguarding its future. Connect with Mike and the Dance Arts Alliance Learn more about the Dance Arts Alliance: Visit the Website

Have you ever stopped to think about your own behaviour when you're searching for something online or considering making a purchase? It might seem unrelated, but it's actually one of the best ways to reflect on the experience potential dance families are having when they come across your studio or are in search of a studio. In this episode we going to break down the 9 most common reasons parents aren't enrolling—and how you can fix them.

You can spend the next 2 months hoping that your students are going to re-enrol next year, OR, you can listen to this episode on the how, what, and when of the re-enrolment strategy that I implement every year. This strategy has many benefits to continuing the growth of your dance studio empire...

As studio owners, we're always balancing the need to maintain consistency with the challenge of standing out in a crowded space. We all know that there's not really anything "new" in marketing; often, it's about looking at familiar ideas and putting a fresh spin on them. My challenge for you today is to rethink and reframe how you present and communicate. By tweaking a few things here and there, you can set yourself apart from what every other studio is doing and create an impression that resonates.

Many of you have likely been grappling with the decision to raise your fees and how to approach it in a way that aligns with both your business values and the needs of your families. It's a challenging topic, and I know it can feel personal, but it's an essential conversation as we head into the new year. The truth is, as studio owners, we need to ensure our businesses are sustainable. If we're not covering costs or earning a modest profit, we risk not only our own livelihoods but also the stability of what our students and families depend on—the studio itself. Join me as I share effective strategies for implementing price increases with ease and confidence.

Earlier this year. I attended a conference with my daughter that was all about AI – and to tell you it blew my mind is an understatement. Seeing the possibilities and opportunities available, I just needed to work out how I could customise it to work for us – Dance Business Owners. This is something that's been on my mind for a while now. I'm always looking for solutions—it's just how I'm wired. How can I make things easier for myself and the people I work with, particularly studio owners like us? That's when I really started taking a deep dive into the world of AI. ........................... Register for FREE 3-day Training HERE - AI for Dance Business Owners

There are two types of studio owners out there: the ones who are still waiting for 2024 to settle and those who are already deep into planning for next year. And you know what? Neither approach is right or wrong. It's just how we're wired as individuals. Some of us thrive in the now, while others are always looking ahead. But if you're the type who loves to get ahead of the game, I've got some practical tips to help you get started planning for 2025. ...............

Over the past five to ten years, the dance business landscape has seen an incredible transformation ...and even more recently with the exposure to AI and the likes of Chat GPT, Canva Magicand Gemini – just to name a few… Where once studios might have operated as more of a passion project or a hobby, for many, the focus has now shifted firmly towards running them as full-fledged businesses… By far, the biggest challenge I hear from studio owners time and time again is their lack of time and control over their finances. It's a constant struggle to balance all the things while trying to grow the business. But here's the thing—I've been working on a solution. It's something I've been developing over the past few months, and I believe it's going to be a game-changer for the dance business industry. All will be revealed in a couple of weeks.

The skills and tactics that got you to this point are not necessarily the ones that will propel you to the next level. It's a hard pill to swallow, but recognising this is the first step toward achieving greater success. So, what will get you there? ............................ Early bird tickets available for the Business of Dance Conference [Click Here To Buy Your Ticket]

Your timetable is one of your biggest selling points for your families. And, I appreciate how challenging timetabling can be each year, I highly suggest you take some time to consider ways to set out your timetable, so you can encourage the most number of enrolments as possible. In this episode, I talk about 7 things for you to consider when it comes time for you to plan your timetable for the new year. ......................... Tickets for the Business of Dance Conference are now on sale [CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE]

I was talking with a business friend recently, and she mentioned that every conversation she has with other studio owners seem to revolve around how deeply they're feeling the impact of the economic crisis. So, I thought it would be a great time to dive into this topic and share some strategies that hopefully can help you keep moving forward… Listen for five creative strategies you can consider implementing... .................................. Tickets for the Business of Dance Conference are available now [CLICK HERE] to get yours!

How is it we are in July already? How are those goals you set in January tracking?  We can get so busy with the day-to-day details and constant to-do lists that it can prevent us from seeing the bigger picture. In this episode, I discuss 5 things you can do to reset and refocus your goals. ......... Tickets for The Business of Dance Conference are available [HERE]

In this episode, I dive deep into the invaluable lessons I gathered from spending three days with 13 incredible dance studio owners. Our retreat was filled with inspiring stories, innovative ideas, and practical strategies that can transform any dance studio. I share the key takeaways that can help you elevate your studio and achieve your goals. Whether you're a seasoned studio owner or just starting, these insights will provide you with the motivation and tools you need to succeed. Tune in to learn about the power of clear vision, the importance of self-care, and much more. Don't miss out on these game-changing revelations!

In this episode, I sit down with Alex, the dynamic CEO of Eternity Dance in Melbourne. Known for her prolific presence on TikTok and Instagram, Alex has amassed over 11,000 followers and uses her platform to inspire and connect with the dance community. Join me as I delve into Alex's journey from dancer to studio owner, her philosophy of community over competition, and her role as a co-facilitator of the VIP Teacher's Room at ADF this year. Whether you're a dance teacher, studio owner, or dance enthusiast, Alex's insights on social media strategies, community building, and navigating the challenges of the dance industry are not to be missed...

Jess is changing the landscape of our industry with her holistic approach to running her studio, teaching fitness, and being a mum. This episode is not missed as Jess talks us through valuable techniques and mindfulness tools we can integrate into our busy day. .... Check out her IG page: @jesscrichton.fitness

Energetic capacity is the maximum amount of physical, emotional, and mental energy you have available at any given time. When we hit our energetic capacity, we often feel overwhelmed, exhausted, and unable to perform at our best. This can be particularly challenging for dance studio owners, who are constantly giving their all to their students and their businesses. In this episode, I share my biggest hack when I hit my energetic capacity...hopefully, it will help you! ........

Burnout isn't just about feeling tired. It's a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress. This can manifest in various ways for dance studio owners—constant fatigue, loss of enthusiasm, decreased productivity, and even health problems. It can affect our creativity, decision-making, and ability to lead our studios effectively. In today's episode, we will explore how you can scale your studio sustainably, without falling into the burnout trap. Let's dive into some key strategies that will help you grow your studio while maintaining your well-being and passion for dance. ................... Don't miss out on the last 2 spots of the Dance Studio Scaled Retreat...[DM me for more info HERE]

Ali Phillips is all about empowering teachers to create safe, inclusive dance spaces for students with disabilities, helping everyone reach their true potential. Her vision is for ALL dance spaces in the world to be inclusive for dancers with disabilities and...it is coming to life - 16 years in the making! In this episode, Ali talks about her experience teaching kids with disabilities - including the good, the bad, and the challenging! Applications are now open to become a Bust A Move Dance Licensed Teacher...for more details, you can contact Ali on Instagram: BAMDANCE_ APPLICATIONS ARE NOW OPEN TO BECOME A BUST A MOVE DANCE LICENSED TEACHER!!!!

In this episode, I share the top three strategies that my members are currently using to generate multi 4 & 5-figure months. These strategies are effective and grounded in the principles we'll explore more deeply at the upcoming Dance Studio Scaled Retreat at the end of June 2024. If you know this is exactly what you need right now, send me a DM on IG and I'll send you the details....

I believe there's a significant shift happening in our industry right now. Studio owners are more impact-driven than ever, but they are also seeking simplicity and efficiency. They want to streamline their operations and carve out their own unique identity amidst the constant noise of others who are following the same paths. In today's episode, we'll dive deep into what this shift means for you as a dance studio owner. We'll discuss the challenges and opportunities it presents, as well as practical strategies to thrive in this evolving landscape. .................. Want to know more about The Dance Studio Scaled Retreat? Send me a DM _jendalton_

At what point should you walk away? When you've been running a studio for some time – it's only human nature to have the feelings of the highest of highs and the lowest of lows…and I'm no exception. There were multiple times during my 30 years when I was exhausted, felt defeated, didn't want to hear from another parent, didn't want to justify why I had to increase class prices or change the timetable, and didn't want to have to look for a new teacher as one of my great ones was moving on…even the hard slog of coming back after covid…often questioning is all this worth it? In this episode, I give you some questions to ask yourself to help clarify if you should keep going or consider moving on…

Less stress, less overwhelm, more time... In this episode, I talk about a new way I've been managing my time. This is a concept I was taught by my business coach. ...And although I'm not running my studio anymore, you may be able to take what I do and make it work for you...

Growth is about getting bigger or adding more, while scaling is about optimising and streamlining, so being more strategic. It's about refinement, profitability & sustainability and not just adding more all the time. You are already busy and overworked, so how can you keep growing and not add to your workload? The answer is to scale. In this episode, I tell you when, how, and what you need to do to get started.

I recently spoke at the Victorian Dance Festival as part of a Business Bootcamp panel. We were asked to share what we believe to be the 1 secret to success... Success means different things to each of us, and I believe many things contribute to making anyone successful - but as I made a list, I kept circling back to this one thing, which I shared on this episode of the podcast. I hope you enjoy!

Join me for an informative chat with social media marketing expert, Sally Prendergast. She shares all the lasted information that's currently working, and what we should and should not be spending our time on. You can contact Sally on IG and FB or email her at support@sallyprendergast.com

Josephine Lancuba went from humble beginnings, to successfully creating multi-six-figure performing arts businesses fuelled by passion, joy, and commitment.  After a whirlwind career as an Artist that saw her perform on a multitude of stages and TV screens for over a decade, Josephine leaped into the world of Business, Talent Management, Studio Ownership, and Motherhood.  Now Josephine is: An award-winning Entrepreneur A Performing Arts Business Coach and Industry Mentor A Professional Speaker and Presenter A Talent Manager A member of, Ausdance NSW Standing Committee In celebration of 'International Dance Day,' Josephine is facilitating an event set to inspire!  Studio Biz Summit is an online experience, designed to help you create a thriving studio business aligned to your goals.  For more information and to get tickets, [CLICK HERE]

In this episode, I chat with the fabulous Kelly Groves. A Performing Arts Professional, Business Coach, and Strategist, Kelly has worked on the floor and behind the scenes of studios from Milton AUS to Mississippi US, and is passionate about  business growth and education for Performing Arts businesses and individuals. Kelly shares some much wisdom about branding, marketing, AI development and current trends that studio owners should be aware of... I know you are going to get so much value from listening to this conversation.

It is a topic consuming many dance teachers and studio owners at the moment. How can you manage and support your student's behaviour when you have tried all the things?? In this episode, I give you 3 strategies you can adapt in your classroom and see if it helps in those tricky situations.

Join me in this episode as I speak with Josef Brown - the co-founder and Managing Director, of The Library Aesthetic Dance Media. The Library Aesthetic Dance Media is an exclusive, collaborative streaming platform committed to the well-being, training, inspiration, and health of dancers. You can watch, listen, or read the latest and most innovative offerings within our industry all in one place! This platform brings together internationally recognised individuals, organisations, and brands, opening important conversations and awareness for our industry as a whole. For more information, check out: https://thelibraryaesthetic.com/