
Beyond Dance: Programs That Transform Students
Transform My Dance Studio – The Podcast For Dance Studio OwnersShow Notes
What would change in your studio if confidence, character, connection and leadership were intentionally built into every student's experience?
This week, we're resharing a powerful conversation filled with practical ideas for building a dance studio experience that goes far beyond teaching steps.
Jodi Shilling sits down with Loren Specht, founder of LoMastro Performing Arts Academy, Dance Mastery Institute and Virtuosity Dance Festival, to explore how intentional programming can support the whole child, strengthen faculty and improve retention. Loren shares how her WINGS character-development program, confidence coaching and behavior support systems help students feel seen, take risks and build life skills, while giving teachers practical tools to respond to classroom challenges. She also explains why positioning her studio as a curriculum-based school—not a transactional service—has changed how families perceive its value. The episode is a powerful reminder that lasting retention is built when students feel connected, teachers feel supported and parents see the studio as a meaningful partner in their child's growth.
What You'll Learn
How to intentionally weave studio values into your curriculum
What Loren's WINGS character-development program includes
How to adapt one program for different ages and dance subjects
Why visible student activities help communicate value to parents
How character-building programs can support connection and retention
Why confidence needs to be developed like a muscle
How confidence coaching can help dancers take more creative risks
Why Loren begins confidence work before students reach middle school
How journaling and reflection can reinforce confidence outside coaching sessions
A simple end-of-class exercise that helps students recognize their progress
How to find the right outside expert or community partner
Why studio owners do not need to personally lead every new initiative
How behavioral coaching can give dance teachers practical support
Why "behavior is communication"
How small classroom responsibilities can help students reset
Why solution-focused support is more effective than venting
How curriculum consistency strengthens the student experience
Why positioning your studio as a school can increase perceived value
How words such as "tuition," "classes" and "education" shape parent expectations
Jodi Shilling is the owner of Relevé Studios, an award-winning studio recognized by the Dance Studio Owners Association, the Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce and the American Business Awards. She is also the founder of Elevate School Arts, a DSOA Inner Circle Studio Growth Coach and an accomplished television, film and improv performer.
Loren LoMastro Specht is the founder and director of LoMastro Performing Arts Academy, Dance Mastery Institute and Virtuosity Dance Festival. An experienced instructor, choreographer and curriculum developer, she is dedicated to creating intentional, whole-child dance education and supporting teachers with the tools they need to help every student succeed. Explore our partners: Try our Daily Decision Compass: dsoa.com/compass Claim Limelight Teamwear's exclusive offer for new studio partners by emailing [email protected] and mentioning DSOA podcast! Join our growing community of people just like you inside our free Facebook group. Click here to join! Follow The Dance Studio Owners Association: Instagram: @dancestudioownersassociation | TikTok: @dsoaofficial | Facebook: @dancestudioownersassociation
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