Dance Studio 411

In this inspiring conversation, Lora Vodicka shares how she's built thriving community-based dance programs across Chicagoland, without a brick-and-mortar studio. With years of experience working inside park districts, libraries, and community centers, Lora offers practical strategies for communication, retention, curriculum design, and budget-friendly performances that still feel meaningful and magical. Whether you run a traditional studio or teach in non-traditional spaces, you'll walk away with simple, doable ideas to strengthen relationships, support recreational dancers, and create an inclusive environment where every child feels seen, valued, and celebrated. Timestamps [00:00–01:23] Welcome & Introduction [01:24–02:47] Why This Conversation Matters [02:48–05:03] Lora's Background & Journey [05:04–07:47] What Park District Programs Actually Are [07:48–10:18] Registration, Systems, and the Contractor Model [10:19–12:31] Who Handles Promotion? [12:32–16:19] Communication Systems That Work [16:20–19:58] In-Person Touchpoints & The Power of a Call Board [19:59–22:38] Staying Connected When Parents Don't Come Inside [22:39–24:47] The One-Sheet: Lora's Must-Have Communication Tool [24:48–28:40] Curriculum, Structure & Mixed-Level Classes [28:41–31:25] Planning With Clear Goals and Flexibility [31:26–34:58] Performances: Meaningful, Memorable, and Budget-Friendly [34:59–38:39] Creating Magic on a Budget [38:40–40:33] Making Dancers Feel Special & Seen [40:34–42:13] The Power of Personalized Touches [42:14–44:09] Closing Thoughts Key Takeaways Strong Systems Build Stronger Connection Personal Connection Matters More Than Ever Flexibility Is Crucial in Recreational Environments Performances Don't Need to Be Expensive to Be Magical Small Gestures Have Big Impact Inclusion Is the Heart of Community Programming   About our guest: Lora Vodicka is a passionate advocate for park district dance programs. She began her dance journey at the West Chicago Park District and returned at the age of 16 when she secured her first teaching position. Early in her career, Lora worked as both an educator and coordinator at several Chicagoland community centers. During this time, she identified a gap in dedicated dance programming within the park district model, leading her to found Innovation Arts Connection, LLC (IAC). IAC is a traveling dance studio that partners with local park districts and community centers to provide progressive, community-based dance programs with a studio-like feel. Lora has earned a strong reputation for her exceptional classroom management, creative curriculum development and effective communication strategies. Her passion for arts education is unwavering. She is also the resident choreographer for West Chicago Community High School, a member of the DiscoverDance Experience, a Rhythm Works and YPAD trained educator, a certified AFAA Group Fitness Instructor, and a Summa Cum Laude graduate of Illinois State University, where she earned a degree in Theatre Education.   Links Mentioned in This Episode Join us at the Energize Conference https://dancestudioowner.com/energize Submit a question for the podcast https://dancestudio411.com/ Dance Studio Owner: https://www.dancestudioowner.com/public/joinnow.cfm Rate, Review & Subscribe! If you loved this episode, be sure to subscribe and leave us a review. Your feedback helps us continue to bring valuable content to the dance community! Running a dance studio is hard work, and growing your studio is even more of a challenge. No matter if you're just starting out—or perhaps you're a well-established owner; we understand that it's a uniquely demanding and personal business to own and operate. Be more effective and productive.  As studio owners ourselves, we've been there. But, it's also very possible to be a happy owner of a thriving dance business that you love. Learn More About Membership: https://www.dancestudioowner.com/  Join us at the Energize Conference this July! Connect with other studio owners, gain access to resources and tools, and walk away feeling refreshed for the upcoming season. Learn more at energizeconference.com.  

In this episode, we sit down with Brett Stuckey from Akada to talk about systems, efficiency, and how to eliminate the admin overwhelm that dance studio owners face daily. Brett shares how Akada's family-run roots led to building a platform that genuinely understands studio life, plus what's new, what's coming, and how to make the most of your management software. Whether you're tired of chasing unpaid tuition, struggling with email communication, or just craving a more organized system, this episode offers relief and real-world advice. Episode Time Stamps: [00:29] Meet Brett Stuckey & Akada's origin story [03:13] From desktop CDs to the cloud: Akada's evolution [05:02] Listening to studio owners: How Akada builds based on feedback [07:10] Studio owner pain points: Disorganization and poor communication [09:06] What Akada does to reduce admin time [14:08] Sneak peek: New studio attendance app and features coming soon [16:01] Big update: One flat monthly rate with no hidden fees [17:26] Onboarding and support: How Akada helps you get started [18:35] Biggest admin headache? Integrating too many tools [19:37] Two-word mission: "Time Savings" [20:26] Most underrated feature: Costume ordering system [20:49] What studios overlook: Personalized support [21:49] Biggest myth: That no one will help you learn the software [22:05] Most exciting feature in development: Studio app [22:55] Why try Akada? "It looks easy, and it is" Key Takeaways: Simple is powerful. Akada is designed to help you spend more time teaching and less time chasing paperwork. Communication is key. Features like in-platform texting, emailing, and new app-based messaging help keep parents informed. Support matters. One-on-one training is available and encouraged for all users. Flat pricing. No confusing tiers or surprise charges. $60/month includes everything. Built for dance. With tools like recital scheduling, costume tracking, and attendance alerts, Akada helps you stay on top of every detail. Links Mentioned in This Episode Akada Akada Software Website Try Akada and pay $0 until December! Enter Code Energize2025 here to get started. Contact Brett directly via email [email protected]  Join us at the Energize Conference https://dancestudioowner.com/energize Submit a question for the podcast https://dancestudio411.com/ Dance Studio Owner: https://www.dancestudioowner.com/public/joinnow.cfm Rate, Review & Subscribe! If you loved this episode, be sure to subscribe and leave us a review. Your feedback helps us continue to bring valuable content to the dance community! Running a dance studio is hard work, and growing your studio is even more of a challenge. No matter if you're just starting out—or perhaps you're a well-established owner; we understand that it's a uniquely demanding and personal business to own and operate. Be more effective and productive.  As studio owners ourselves, we've been there. But, it's also very possible to be a happy owner of a thriving dance business that you love. Learn More About Membership: https://www.dancestudioowner.com/  Join us at the Energize Conference this August! Connect with other studio owners, gain access to resources and tools, and walk away feeling refreshed for the upcoming season. Learn more at energizeconference.com.

What if recital season didn't have to be stressful? In this episode of Dance Studio 411, we sit down with Joe Naftal of ShowSculptor, a proud Captivate Sponsor of the Energize Conference to explore how studio owners can level up their year-end shows from organized to unforgettable. We'll talk about efficient backstage workflows, magical family moments, and how ShowSculptor is helping studios run smoother than ever. Episode Timestamps [00:28] – Welcome & Introduction [01:44] – The Birth of ShowSculptor [04:56] – Why Smooth Shows Matter More Than Ever [07:41] – What ShowSculptor Does [09:20] – Tech-Friendly & Flexible [12:05] – It's Not Just for Recitals [13:38] – Supporting the Energize Conference [14:38] – Brunch & Learn Sneak Peek [15:28] – Rapid Fire Fun [17:42] – Why Energize Feels Like Summer Camp Key Takeaways Experience Matters: Today's parents value well-run events. From parking to the final bow, every detail counts. Delegation Is Possible: ShowSculptor allows studio owners to stop being the central hub and empower their team. Backstage Runs Better: With tools for check-in, stage management, and costume tracking, the chaos becomes calm. Use It Year-Round: From parades to Nutcracker, ShowSculptor supports all your performance needs. Bonus Tip: Plan for the unexpected: ice packs, costume mishaps, and all. Links Mentioned in This Episode Learn more & request a demo https://www.showsculptor.com/ Join us at the Energize Conference https://dancestudioowner.com/energize Submit a question for the podcast https://dancestudio411.com/ Dance Studio Owner: https://www.dancestudioowner.com/public/joinnow.cfm Rate, Review & Subscribe! If you loved this episode, be sure to subscribe and leave us a review. Your feedback helps us continue to bring valuable content to the dance community! Running a dance studio is hard work, and growing your studio is even more of a challenge. No matter if you're just starting out—or perhaps you're a well-established owner; we understand that it's a uniquely demanding and personal business to own and operate. Be more effective and productive.  As studio owners ourselves, we've been there. But, it's also very possible to be a happy owner of a thriving dance business that you love. Learn More About Membership: https://www.dancestudioowner.com/  Join us at the Energize Conference this August! Connect with other studio owners, gain access to resources and tools, and walk away feeling refreshed for the upcoming season. Learn more at energizeconference.com.

In this episode of Dance Studio 411, Jill Tirone chats with Bill Brown from Gerriets, a global leader in dance flooring solutions for over 75 years. They cover everything from choosing the right Marley floor to preventing injuries, cleaning and maintenance tips, and the latest innovations from Gerriets. Bill's technical theater background and passion for helping studios shine make this a must-listen for any studio owner.   Episode Timestamps [00:28] – Meet Bill Brown from Gerriets Dance Floors [01:36] – Bill's background in technical theater and his journey with Gerriets [03:52] – History of Gerriets: From curtains to Marley dance floors [06:00] – Why flooring matters: Cushioning, subfloors, and injury prevention [08:09] – Challenges of multi-use floors: Tap vs. ballet needs [09:36] – The Vario Beat floor: Balancing slickness and grip [09:58] – Overview of other popular Gerriets products like Vario Pro [12:19] – Common mistakes studio owners make when installing floors [15:45] – Cleaning tips and Gerriets new Vario Care product line [18:16] – Gerriets new dedicated dance floor website [19:22] – Rapid-fire Q&A: Mistakes, installation tips, and favorite projects [24:13] – Bill's favorite part about working in dance flooring [24:55] – Coolest venues Gerriet's has worked with [26:25] – Final thoughts and how to connect with Gerriets   Key Takeaways Subflooring is critical – Concrete floors can cause long-term joint issues without proper cushioning. Marley floors vary by dance style – Ballet, tap, and multi-use studios require different traction levels. The Vario Beat floor balances slickness for tap with grip for ballet thanks to its innovative embossing. Proper cleaning is essential – Use pH-neutral, non-abrasive cleaners to maintain Marley's surface. Gerriets Vario Care line includes daily and deep-clean products plus a protective finish to extend floor life. Ask questions before installing – Delivery logistics, subfloor prep, and correct flooring choice are key. Gerriets new website specifically for dance floors https://gerrietsdancefloors.com/ makes it easier for studio owners to find flooring solutions and request quotes. Bill's philosophy: The right floor supports dancers' health and enhances performance while lasting for years.   Links Mentioned in This Episode Gerriets Dance Floors: https://gerrietsdancefloors.com/ Energize Conference and Expo: https://www.energizeconference.com/ Dance Studio Owner: https://www.dancestudioowner.com/public/joinnow.cfm Rate, Review & Subscribe! If you loved this episode, be sure to subscribe and leave us a review. Your feedback helps us continue to bring valuable content to the dance community! Running a dance studio is hard work, and growing your studio is even more of a challenge. No matter if you're just starting out—or perhaps you're a well-established owner; we understand that it's a uniquely demanding and personal business to own and operate. Be more effective and productive.  As studio owners ourselves, we've been there. But, it's also very possible to be a happy owner of a thriving dance business that you love. Learn More About Membership: https://www.dancestudioowner.com/  Join us at the Energize Conference this August! Connect with other studio owners, gain access to resources and tools, and walk away feeling refreshed for the upcoming season. Learn more at energizeconference.com.

In this episode of Dance Studio 411, host Jill Tirone sits down with Dotty Hancock, owner of Dance Arts Academy in Idaho. Dottie shares her 24-year journey of building a thriving studio while balancing family, health challenges, and a major studio relocation. From starting at age 21 to navigating cancer and COVID simultaneously, Dottie opens up about what it truly takes to lead with resilience. This episode is a must-listen for studio owners facing burnout or seeking renewed inspiration and leadership clarity. Key Takeaways Start Before You're Ready: Dotty bought her studio at 21 with no business plan—courage often beats perfection. Real Life Happens. Lead Anyway: From NICU stays to cancer, Dotty shows that resilience in life fuels strong leadership. Culture Comes First: A thriving studio starts with being intentional about your values and the team you build. Community Prevents Burnout: Surrounding yourself with like-minded peers, both inside and outside the dance world, keeps you inspired and supported. Profit Isn't a Bad Word: Making money matters. Studio owners deserve to be financially strong and sustainable. Episode Timestamps [00:28] – Introduction to Dotty Hancock and the theme of setbacks and leadership [02:06] – Dotty's fearless leap into ownership at 21 [04:11] – Navigating the birth of a micro-preemie and a studio move simultaneously [06:54] – The power of intentional culture and building a trustworthy team [09:07] – Marketing to a new neighborhood and understanding student demographics [10:30] – Burnout and how Dotty protects her energy [11:21] – The importance of diverse business circles and "entrepreneurial therapy" [15:08] – Dotty's passion for financial coaching for studio owners [18:08] – Words of encouragement for busy, burned-out owners [20:15] – Final inspiration and reminder of community and support   Links Mentioned in this Episode... Energize Conference and Expo: https://www.energizeconference.com/ Dance Studio Owner: https://www.dancestudioowner.com/public/joinnow.cfm   About Our Guest: Dotty Hancock is a dedicated dance educator with a passion for inspiring others through the art of dance and the business of education. She thrives on sharing her extensive knowledge and experience with like-minded professionals in the industry. A lifelong learner, Dotty continually expands her expertise by attending national dance teacher and studio owner conventions and conferences. She is deeply committed to developing innovative ways to engage her students and ignite their passion for dance. Dotty holds a bachelor's degree in Communication from Boise State University (2001). In the same year, she became the proud owner of Dance Arts Academy, where she has since created countless memorable experiences for her students, including taking performance groups to Disneyland and Disney World. While Dotty enjoys working with dancers of all ages, she specializes in early childhood dance education, fostering a love of movement in her youngest students. An active member of the Boise Dance Teacher's Association, Dotty has served in multiple leadership roles, including Secretary, Treasurer, and President. She is also a licensed Zumbini instructor and a certified Rhythm Works Integrative Dance Instructor, further enhancing her ability to connect with diverse student needs. Dotty's expertise and passion for dance education have been recognized on an international level. Most recently, she was honored to be a guest speaker at The Studio Boardroom retreat, where she shared her insights with studio owners and educators from all over Australia. Rate, Review & Subscribe! If you loved this episode, be sure to subscribe and leave us a review. Your feedback helps us continue to bring valuable content to the dance community! Running a dance studio is hard work, and growing your studio is even more of a challenge. No matter if you're just starting out—or perhaps you're a well-established owner; we understand that it's a uniquely demanding and personal business to own and operate. Be more effective and productive.  As studio owners ourselves, we've been there. But, it's also very possible to be a happy owner of a thriving dance business that you love. Learn More About Membership: https://www.dancestudioowner.com/  Join us at the Energize Conference this August! Connect with other studio owners, gain access to resources and tools, and walk away feeling refreshed for the upcoming season. Learn more at energizeconference.com.