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!

In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, we're joined by Steve Gough, General Manager at Harlequin Floors, and Chrissy Ott Richter, Director of Marketing and Communications. Together, they share Harlequin's journey from a small California startup to an internationally trusted name in dance flooring.

We explore:

• Harlequin's mission to promote dancer safety
• The evolution of flooring products for studios of all sizes
• Branding tips and actionable marketing advice for studio owners
• Studio trends, including flooring financing, social media tips, and cleaning must-dos
• How Harlequin supports studios through customer service, education, and flexibility

Want to elevate your dance space with the industry's most trusted flooring? Visit https://us.harlequinfloors.com to explore options, get a custom quote, or connect with a rep near you.

👉 And for more tools, training, and resources to grow your studio, join us at DanceTeacherWeb.com

In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, we're joined by two industry legends: Misty Lown, founder of More Than Just Great Dancing, and Mandy Yip, founder of Acrobatic Arts. Together, they share the highs and hurdles of building internationally recognized dance education brands, their inspiring journeys through entrepreneurship, and how they're now helping shape the next generation of studio leaders through their work with Ensemble Performing Arts.

We dive into:

• The origin stories behind Acrobatic Arts and More Than Just Great Dancing
• Misty and Mandy's views on industry trends, leadership, and the "professionalization" of dance studios
• Why succession planning matters—and how studio owners can create lasting legacies
• The importance of collaboration, not competition, in the dance world
• Their top actionable tips to take your studio to the next level

Whether you're a seasoned studio owner or just getting started, this conversation is packed with insight, laughter, and wisdom you won't want to miss.

🎧 Plus, get a sneak peek of what Misty and Mandy are bringing to this year's Dance Teacher Web Conference!

Ready to elevate your studio all year long? Visit DanceTeacherWeb.com to access exclusive tools, training, and expert resources designed to help you grow your business and inspire your team.

In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, Angela and Steve D'Valda Sirico sit down with the legendary Liz Imperio—Emmy Award-winning director and choreographer who has worked with icons like Jennifer Lopez, Michael Jackson, Gloria Estefan, Madonna, and more.

Liz shares her journey from the big stage to her passion for shaping the next generation of dancers, with a special focus on the vital role parents and teachers play in a dancer's growth. She dives into themes from her new book Parenting Their Passion, offering powerful insights on how parents can support their children in dance without losing sight of the bigger picture.

In this conversation, you'll discover:

• How parents' words and attitudes impact a dancer's confidence and performance
• Why self-awareness and critical thinking are as important as technique
• The difference between "dance parents" and "parents of dancers"
• How educators can better align with families to create lasting success
• Why the lessons of dance extend far beyond the studio and stage

👉 Explore more expert insights and tools to grow your studio at DanceTeacherWeb.com.

In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, host Steve sits down with powerhouse dance educator and social media sensation Marissa Powers. From her early days at a small studio in Massachusetts to choreographing for NYU and teaching across NYC, Marissa shares how she built a dance brand that now inspires over 100K followers across TikTok and Instagram.

She opens up about her creative process, how a viral Harry Styles tap rehearsal changed everything, and offers real-world tips for dance teachers and studio owners who want to grow their reach online. Plus, get a sneak peek into the exciting class she's bringing to the Dance Teacher Web Conference, where she'll guide attendees on filming and editing content that connects and converts.

🎧 Highlights:

• How Marissa went from teaching in Fairfield to choreographing in NYC
• The TikTok video that changed her career
• Simple, doable tips to grow your studio's online presence
• Preview of her content creation workshop at DTW Conferenc

Ready to take your dance studio to the next level?
👉 Visit DanceTeacherWeb.com to discover top-tier training, business tools, and community support that help studio owners and teachers thrive—on and off the dance floor.

In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, we sit down with industry veterans Renee Stojec of A Wish Come True and Jason Neuwirth. of 42nd Street Tours to discuss the launch of their exciting new venture: Dance NYC. Learn how their years of experience and collaboration led to the creation of this one-of-a-kind event, featuring exclusive liquidation deals, top-tier vendors, and unbeatable networking opportunities for dance studio owners.

They also share juicy behind-the-scenes details about the upcoming Costume Liquidation Sale in partnership with Dance Teacher Web, why this event is a must-attend, and what attendees can expect—including up to $10,000 in prizes, themed swag baskets, and unforgettable industry connections.

🔗 CTA:

Explore all the resources Dance Teacher Web has to offer—from business tips to lesson plans—at www.danceteacherweb.com.

In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, Steve welcomes the dynamic Courtney Ortiz — professional dancer, seasoned competition judge, educator, and host of Making the Impact – A Dance Competition Podcast. Courtney shares her incredible journey from Broadway to adjudication, dives into current trends in the competitive dance world, and offers actionable advice for studio owners and teachers navigating competitions, student growth, and creative integrity.

🎧 Topics covered include:

• The evolution of jazz and musical theatre in today's competitions
• What judges are really looking for — and what turns them off
• The truth about competition levels and category placement
• The rising issue of choreography plagiarism and how to protect your work
• Behind-the-scenes insight into the judging process
• Why investing in your teaching staff pays off
• A preview of Courtney's sessions at this year's Dance Teacher Web Conference

Whether you're a studio owner, teacher, choreographer, or aspiring judge — this episode is packed with honest insight and expert advice you can apply right away.

🔗 Visit DanceTeacherWeb.com to get access to hundreds of resources, online classes, and info on the Dance Teacher Web LIVE Conference. Your blueprint for studio success starts here!

In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, we sit down with Jamie Adams, founder of Gotta Dance in Eagle Mountain, Utah. Jamie shares her incredible 18-year journey—starting a dance studio in her basement and growing it into a thriving, state-of-the-art facility that now serves as a cultural hub for her entire community.

Whether you're just starting your studio or looking to scale, this episode offers inspiration and actionable insights on:

• What it takes to build and own your studio space
• How to stay true to your vision and values
• Creating retention and marketing magic through family-centered events
• The power of investing in your staff's growth and education
• Why a non-competitive studio model works—and how it's thriving
• Encouraging a studio culture rooted in joy, inclusion, and confidence

Jamie's story is filled with honest reflections, smart strategies, and a powerful reminder: if the dream keeps calling, it's time to take the leap.

🔗 Ready to take your studio to the next level? Get access to 1,000+ videos, lesson plans, business tools, and more at DanceTeacherWeb.com — the ultimate resource for studio owners and teachers.

In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, we sit down with Claudia Reed (SVP of Sales) and Lorianne Hagen (Senior Sales Manager) from Weissman—one of the most trusted names in dance wear and costuming for over 65 years.

Together with hosts Steve and Angie, we explore what it truly means to build a studio brand that resonates—from your logo and communication style to the customer experience and beyond.

What you'll learn in this episode:

• How to define and refine your studio's brand identity
• Why customer experience is your studio's best marketing tool
• Tips for performing an effective brand audit
• Tools Weissman offers to streamline and inspire your costume selection
• Actionable advice for enhancing parent communication and studio loyalty

In this powerful episode of Step Up Your Studio, we're joined by the incredible Ashley Andrews - Broadway choreographer, performer, and creative leader behind major productions like King Kong, Diana, Jesus Christ Superstar, and Sunset Boulevard. Ashley brings decades of industry experience and unfiltered advice for aspiring performers, studio owners, and dance educators.

From how to nail a Broadway audition, to the importance of being a triple threat, and why your attitude offstage is just as important as your talent, this conversation is packed with golden insights.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• 🎭 What casting directors are really looking for in a dancer
• 💡 The mindset shift that could change your audition outcomes
• 🎤 Why being a singer AND a dancer is no longer optional
• ✅ The grooming, attire, and preparation mistakes that cost dancers roles
• 💼 How resumes and headshots can make or break your audition
• 🔄 Why consistency, humility, and teamwork matter as much as talent

In this inspiring episode of Step Up Your Studio, we welcome the incredible Julie Kay Stallcup, a beloved veteran of the dance education world and longtime friend of Dance Teacher Web.

Julie shares her journey from building one of the most successful studios in California - Revolution Dance Center with over 1,300 students and 30+ employees - to transitioning out of ownership and stepping into a mentorship role. Discover how she grew her business with intention, built a strong team culture, and learned to let go with love by passing on her legacy.

Inside This Episode:

• The unexpected way Julie entered studio ownership
• How she scaled to 144 weekly classes and two studio spaces
• Tips for hiring a strong team (Hint: Hire people smarter than you!)
• Why vision board meetings changed everything
• The importance of preserving your studio's culture and community
• How to keep students and teachers creatively inspired—even during the "grind season"
• And the beautiful parallels between studio leadership and planting seeds for growth

Whether you're a seasoned studio owner or just starting out, Julie's story will remind you why you started - and how to lead with heart, passion, and purpose.

🎧 Subscribe to the podcast for more inspiration, stories, and strategies to help you step up your studio!

#StepUpYourStudio #DanceStudioOwner #DanceTeacherLife #LeadershipInDance #StudioSuccess #DanceMentor #CreativeInspiration

Step Up Your Studio is the go-to podcast for dance studio owners and teachers ready to grow, thrive, and lead with impact. Hosts Steve Sirico and Angela D'Valda Sirico share actionable tips, expert interviews, and real-world strategies on marketing, leadership, teaching, and more — all to help elevate your studio to new heights.

In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, host Angela sits down with Don Mirault—Broadway veteran, performer, and founder of Theater Arts Preparatory School (TAPS)—and Jamie Tenbass, former professional dancer and agent, who will be leading TAPS East Coast in 2026.

Don shares why he created TAPS as a "trade school" for dancers, designed to prepare them for the realities of the professional job market. Jamie offers her perspective from years as a talent agent, explaining why TAPS graduates stand out—not just for their technique, but for their professionalism, marketing savvy, and readiness to work.

👉 Learn more about TAPS at theaterartsprepschool.com and tapseast.com
👉 Explore more tools to grow your studio at DanceTeacherWeb.com

In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, we sit down with Tanya Hamilton, the powerhouse behind Hamilton Theatrical Supply. From her early days in her mother's dance studio—handling everything from picture day to changing toilet paper rolls—to running one of the most respected costume companies in the industry, Tanya's journey is equal parts inspiring and insightful.

She shares:

• How growing up in a studio shaped her approach to business and design
• The importance of functionality and style in costume creation
• How pop culture and performance trends influence her designs
• Why building strong partnerships is the key to peace of mind for studio owners
• Her take on current industry challenges like tariffs and supply chain volatility

Tanya's passion for dance, dedication to community, and commitment to quality shine through in every story and piece of advice.

👉 Connect with Tanya and explore Hamilton's costumes at hamiltonstheatrical.com
👉 Discover more resources to grow your studio at DanceTeacherWeb.com

In this heartfelt episode of Step Up Your Studio, we sit down with Gaynelle Costner, founder of First Class Dance Studio in Temple Hills, Maryland. Gaynelle shares how a spontaneous opportunity at age 13 ignited a lifelong passion for teaching—and how a single mailed letter helped her register 98 dancers on day one of her now 27-year-old studio.

Gaynelle opens up about:

• Transitioning from assistant teacher to studio owner
• Taking smart, steady growth steps without stretching her community too far
• Building her team by hiring former students she mentored
• Leading with compassion, especially when families face financial hardship
• Why she invests in continued education—for herself and her staff

Resources & CTA:

Explore the tools and training Gaynelle uses to grow her studio and support her team—
👉 Visit DanceTeacherWeb.com to level up your teaching and business strategy.

💡 Subscribe to Step Up Your Studio for more real stories, actionable advice, and inspiration from dance educators who lead with heart and hustle.

In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, Angela D'Valda Sirico welcomes longtime friend and industry icon Darlene "Dolly" Kelepecz —a celebrated performer, educator, author, and creator of the DK Body Balancing Method. Currently a full-time professor at UNLV and lead instructor for Dance Teacher University, Dolly shares powerful insights from her decades-long journey in ballet, Pilates, and dance education.

They dive deep into:

• The shift in dancer discipline and studio culture over the years
• The risks of overstretching and the importance of joint health
• Why Pilates is essential for today's dancers and teachers
• Point work readiness and why anatomical awareness matters
• Encouragement for teachers to stay strong, set boundaries, and nurture students' souls through the art of dance

🌐 Learn more and become part of the Dance Teacher Web community:
👉 https://www.danceteacherweb.com

Want more inspiration and resources? Subscribe to Step Up Your Studio for real conversations, teaching tools, and connection with fellow dance educators.

In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, host Steve Sirico sits down with Ian Howe, artistic director of Pacific West Performing Arts and co-founder of Influx Dance. With decades of experience as an educator, performer, MC, and judge, Ian shares deep insights on how the dance world—and its students—have evolved post-COVID.

From managing early childhood separation challenges to navigating students' sensitivity to corrections, Ian breaks down the shifts educators must make to stay effective and connected. He also explores:

• Setting healthy classroom boundaries for students and parents
• Helping dancers understand and apply feedback without resistance
• When it's time for teachers (and students) to switch things up
• The importance of continuing education and staying creatively fresh
• His mission behind Influx Dance and empowering the next generation

🔗 Resources & Links:

• Explore Ian's work and get in touch: ianhowedancer.com
• Learn more about Influx Dance: influx.dance
• Join the most supportive community for dance educators at DanceTeacherWeb.com

In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, we welcome industry veteran Kim McSwain, founder of KM Agency and longtime educator, choreographer, and mentor to dancers and teachers alike.

From touring with Britney Spears and Michael Jackson to becoming a leading voice in teacher training and studio consulting, Kim shares how a career-ending injury led her to discover her greatest gift: teaching young dancers with heart and intention.

She dives into:

• What studios often miss when it comes to teacher hiring
• How to reach and uplift every child, even the "hard to reach"
• Creating a classroom culture rooted in being seen, valued, and challenged
• Turning passion into purpose and building a healthy, thriving studio

With honesty, warmth, and years of experience, Kim reminds us what really matters in dance education, and how small shifts in mindset and communication can change everything.

Learn about Kim's work at KM Agency
Discover exclusive training, tools, and community for studio owners and teachers at DanceTeacherWeb.com

In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, we sit down with the incredible Hedy Perna, owner of Perna Dance Center in Haslet, NJ. With over 37 years of experience, Hedy brings heart, humor, and hard-won wisdom to the mic as she shares what it really takes to build a lasting, values-driven studio.

From her childhood obsession with Fred Astaire to launching Dance Friends on Zoom during the pandemic, Hedy dives into:

• Her old-school roots and modern-day lessons
• How to stay energized after decades in the industry
• The importance of sticking to your policies and trusting your studio's "flavor"
• How meaningful relationships drive student retention and long-term success
• What she's learned from leading new studio owner sessions at the Dance Teacher Web Conference

Whether you're brand new or a decades-deep studio veteran, Hedy's stories and strategies will remind you why dance education is a calling and why community matters now more than ever.

• Explore the upcoming Dance Teacher Web Conference & Expo: DanceTeacherWeb.com