CEO Checklists & Co-Pilots: Your New Self-Care Strategy

Studio owners, this one’s for the do-it-all leaders running on fumes. If you’ve ever felt like the pilot, the crew, the mechanic, and the air traffic control of your business — all at once — it’s time to rethink your flight plan. In this episode, we’re borrowing wisdom from the skies to bring you aviation-grade self-care. You’ll learn: - Why flying solo isn’t sustainable (and what it’s really costing you) - What a “co-pilot” looks like inside your studio - How to use checklists as one of the most powerful leadership tools - Why rest isn’t optional — it’s regulation If you’re ready to lead smarter, not harder, tune in. Because the view at 35,000 feet is only worth it if you arrive in one piece. DM us or tag us @dancestudioownersassociation to tell us: - Who your co-pilot is (or who you wish it was)? - The first checklist you're committing to build this week Let’s build aviation-grade leadership, together.

In this episode of the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast, we’re taking you behind the scenes for a powerful Inner Circle conversation with studio owner and mentor Kelli Leighton. Together, we explore what happens when you shift your mindset from survival mode to service-driven leadership. Inspired by executive coach Craig Burns, this episode dives into the emotional patterns, limiting beliefs, and default narratives that can hold dance studio owners back—from growth, from rest, and from the financial success they deserve. Kelli opens up about: - How she learned to stop taking feedback personally - Letting go of the “hustle = worth” mentality - Reframing help at home as a form of support, not failure - What it really means to run a real business in the dance world - Why it’s time to stop apologizing for wanting sustainability and success If you’ve ever felt like you're carrying the weight of your studio on your back, this episode will remind you: You’re not alone—and you’re allowed to thrive. 👉 Continue the conversation in our free Facebook group: facebook.com/groups/theDSOA

What’s really keeping studio owners up at night? In this first-of-its-kind episode, we’re handing the mic over to Inner Circle mentors Kelli Leighton and Loren Specht to tackle the raw, real, and relatable questions from studio owners just like you. From building teams and stepping out of the classroom to shifting your mindset and revamping your curriculum—nothing’s off-limits in this unfiltered conversation. Whether you're a brand-new studio owner or a seasoned vet navigating growth, you’ll walk away with powerful insights on: - Why mindset is 80% of the work - How to stop overworking and start leading with intention - What truly drives retention in today’s dance landscape - How to serve both high and low commitment families without losing your mission 👉 Continue the conversation and get your questions answered inside our free DSOA Facebook group at facebook.com/groups/theDSOA

After a 5-year break, the Dance Teacher Summit is back — and bigger than ever! Chantel Feola joins us to share what’s new, what’s returning, and why this year’s event is a must for studio owners and teachers. From iconic faculty and business trainings to app-powered networking and the return of the ACE Awards, you’ll get the inside scoop on how to make the most of your trip (and bring your team or family, too!). 🎟️ Register now at DanceTeacherSummit.com and use code DSOA100 for $100 off.