Step Up Your Studio – Details, episodes & analysis

In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, host Steve Sirico sits down with professional dancer, educator, and choreographer Cindy Reid Bluhm to talk about what it truly takes to build a long, sustainable career in dance.

From her early training in Wisconsin to performing on cruise ships, moving to Las Vegas, working in major productions, and teaching across all levels, Cindy shares real-world insights on versatility, professionalism, and why technique and character will never go out of style. She opens up about navigating career pivots, staying ready between contracts, and helping today's students connect more deeply with their training through visualization, mindset, and intentional movement.

This conversation is packed with practical takeaways for studio owners and educators who want to develop not just strong dancers but confident, resilient, and hireable humans.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• Why technique remains the foundation for longevity in any dance career
• How visualization and mindset help students apply corrections more effectively
• The truth about trends like acro—and what really stands the test of time
• What directors and casting teams value beyond talent
• How educators can evolve while staying true to their teaching philosophy

🎧 Whether you're a studio owner, educator, or aspiring professional, this episode will shift how you think about training, teaching, and long-term success.

👉 Enjoying the show? Be sure to subscribe to Step Up Your Studio so you never miss an episode packed with real-world insights for dance educators.

💡 Want more tools, training, and expert resources to grow your studio?
Visit DanceTeacherWeb.com to explore faculty programs, conferences, and marketing support designed specifically for dance studio owners.

In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, Steve Sirico sits down with Bob Singh, tech entrepreneur, professor, dance studio owner, and principal product manager at CircleRam. With a unique blend of tech expertise and firsthand studio experience, Bob shares how AI can revolutionize the way studios operate, from class scheduling and parent communication to marketing and student growth tracking.

Bob also opens up about his journey from software engineering to studio ownership, why identity matters in business, and how his team is helping studio owners save time, increase efficiency, and embrace innovation without fear.

You'll discover:

• The top ways AI can enhance studio operations and cut hours of admin work
• How studio owners can leverage online classes to grow enrollment fast
• Why community, service, and identity are at the heart of sustainable success
• A sneak peek into CircleRam's new Smart Studio Circle and upcoming tools

👉 Learn more and join the Smart Studio Circle at smartstudios.circleram.ai
👉 Explore more tools and strategies for studio success at DanceTeacherWeb.com

In this heartfelt and wisdom-packed episode, Step Up Your Studio welcomes Simone DePaulo, veteran performer, choreographer, and passionate educator. From Alvin Ailey training to Afro Jazz choreography, Simone's journey spans continents, disciplines, and decades. She shares how dance chose her, the life-changing impact of international touring, and how she connects movement with meaning for students of all ages.

You'll hear:

• Her approach to teaching young children through story and imagination
• Insights into curriculum development that's rooted in connection and creativity
• Honest reflections on overcoming personal and professional challenges
• The importance of community, mentorship, and continued education in dance

Simone also opens up about her husband's health journey and how faith, resilience, and the studio continue to be her creative and emotional anchor.

Whether you're a studio owner, dance teacher, or someone seeking inspiration, this episode is a must-listen for re-centering your purpose and passion in the dance world.

🔗 Connect with Simone on Dance Teacher Web

Watch her exclusive class content and more at:
👉 www.danceteacherweb.com

In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, we're joined by the incredibly accomplished Jessica Stafford—dancer, educator, choreographer, and founder of Rebel Wellness. Jessica shares her journey from performing in West Side Story and Guys and Dolls to becoming a transformative educator who guides dancers with purpose and authenticity.

You'll hear about:

• Her early beginnings in Brooklyn and what sparked her love for dance
• How her teaching evolved from performance-focused to student-centered
• The biggest pitfalls for young choreographers—and how to avoid them
• Her thoughts on setting age and level-appropriate choreography
• Tips for getting students more engaged, accountable, and invested
• The birth of her Rebel Wellness venture and how it's helping dancers and teachers alike
• A sneak peek at her sessions during this year's Dance Teacher Web Conference

Jessica also offers practical advice for studio owners, teachers, and choreographers who want to elevate their impact in and out of the studio. Whether you're struggling with student engagement or feeling burned out yourself, this episode will help reignite your passion and purpose.

Learn more about the Dance Teacher Web Conference & Expo: DanceTeacherWeb.com

In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, Steve sits down with Jason New, JJ, and Emilee from 42nd Street Tours, a company dedicated to creating customized, memory-making travel experiences for dance studios. With destinations like New York City, Disney, Hawaii, Nashville, cruises, and more, they offer performance opportunities, workshops, and built-in bonding moments that go far beyond a typical dance season.

You'll hear how these trips can boost enrollment, strengthen your studio brand, and even provide a new revenue stream. Plus, they share tips on making trips stress-free for studio owners, including how their team handles everything from payments to parent questions.

Ready to take your dancers on the trip of a lifetime?
👉 Visit 42ndstreettours.com to request a free, customized quote and explore destination options.

Looking for more ways to grow your studio and stay inspired year-round?
👉 Become a member of Dance Teacher Web and get instant access to tools, resources, and a supportive community that will help you succeed on and off the dance floor.

In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, we sit down with Noah Lands — founder and CEO of KAR Productions, the powerhouse behind some of the industry's most recognized dance competitions and conventions. Noah shares how his team runs over 170 live events a year, what it takes to maintain fairness in judging, and how they're setting new standards for leveling and training across the board.

He also opens up about Dancers Against Cancer, the nonprofit initiative he launched to provide direct support to dancers and families affected by cancer — and how studios can easily get involved and make a difference.

💡 Learn how your studio can make a difference at imadanceragainstcancer.org

In this insightful episode of Step Up Your Studio, we're joined by Dr. Linda Bluestein, a physician, former dancer, and one of the nation's top experts on hypermobility and connective tissue disorders in performing artists.

If you've ever had students who are "too flexible" or struggle with recurring injuries, this is a must-listen. Dr. Bluestein breaks down the difference between healthy flexibility and hypermobility, the risks that come with it, and what every dance educator should watch for in their students.

You'll learn:

• How to recognize hypermobility in dancers
• Why some students are more injury-prone than others
• Safer conditioning techniques for hypermobile performers
• The importance of interdisciplinary care in dance medicine

Dr. Bluestein also shares what inspired her to specialize in this field and how her own dance journey shaped her approach to care.

For more resources or to connect with Dr. Bluestein, visit HypermobilityMD.com

And don't miss her session live at the Dance Teacher Web Conference this summer — an essential resource for every educator shaping the next generation of healthy dancers!

In this inspiring episode of Step Up Your Studio, host Angela sits down with acclaimed director, choreographer, and movement director Richard Hinds, whose work spans Broadway, the West End, and international stages. From his early days growing up in the studio to choreographing productions, Richard shares invaluable insights on:

• How to prepare young dancers for real-world auditions
• Why versatility is critical in today's performance industry
• The power of work ethic and teamwork in a professional setting
• Why giving proper credit in choreography matters more than ever
• How studio owners and teachers can stay relevant and connected

Plus, Richard previews his upcoming appearance at the Dance Teacher Web Conference — including a not-to-miss session with Courtney Ortiz on choreography ethics in the digital age.

Whether you're a studio owner, teacher, or aspiring choreographer, this episode is packed with wisdom and heart.

👉 Learn more about the event at: DanceTeacherWeb.com

Episode 013: Richard Hinds on Building a Career in Dance, Choreography & Direction

In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, Steve welcomes Michael Tasner, founder of the Parent Marketing Group and longtime supporter of businesses that serve families and children. With two daughters in dance and two decades in marketing, Michael dives deep into what it takes for dance studio owners to grow, retain students, and stand out in today's digital landscape.

He shares:

• The most effective ways to differentiate your studio in a crowded market
• Why platforms like TikTok and Reddit are underused marketing goldmines
• How to boost retention with small, personal touches
• Simple marketing math every studio should be tracking
• The importance of storytelling and emotional connection in marketing

Plus, hear a preview of the exclusive marketing sessions Michael will present at this year's Dance Teacher Web Conference in Las Vegas.

If you're a studio owner looking for fresh marketing tactics that actually work, this episode is a must-listen.

In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, we sit down with Brandy Vickers, longtime dance industry expert and Sales Manager at TutuTix, to talk all things recital prep. With over four decades of dance experience and a background in education, Brandy shares actionable tips on how studio owners can reduce stress, streamline ticketing, increase profits, and deliver an exceptional customer experience without standing in line for hours.

You'll learn:

• Why ticketing is a reflection of your brand
• How to boost revenue through reserved seating & tiered pricing
• Easy ways to sell merchandise and collect donations
• How digital tools can save you time and energy

Plus, Brandy reveals how TutuTix makes it all easier for you—so you can focus on what matters most: your dancers and your show.

Ready to simplify your next recital? Learn more at www.tututix.com and explore the tools that thousands of dance studios trust!