DanceFit Biz Builders

Today, I’m digging into a distinction that’s been on my mind lately—what separates an expert from an authority . This idea was sparked by a powerful blog from Marissa Rote (keep your eyes out for it on Dec 30th), and let me tell you…it hit hard. In this episode, I share the raw truth about what it really means to stand by your method, to own your process, and to lead with confidence—even when it's...

Marisa and I share the real and raw stories of our journeys—struggles, rejections, and triumphs. In this space, we dive deep into the challenges we’ve faced, the hurts we've endured, and how those experiences shaped who we are today. It's not all glitter and glam; behind the success, there’s been sweat, tears, and plenty of moments where we didn't feel like we fit the part. Through candid conversa...

In this heartfelt reflection, I dive into my experience celebrating Mizrahi Heritage Month and the unexpected challenges that came with it. From sharing the richness of my Yemeni Jewish culture to the reactions—both positive and negative—it was a powerful reminder of why I do what I do. I talk about the importance of showing up, even when it’s hard, and how the ripple effect of sharing our stories...

You’ve got the moves, but do you have the method? In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on why so many instructors are burning out—and how the SharQui Instructor Academy flips the script. We’re talking about the system that cuts prep time in half, keeps students coming back, and helps instructors earn what they actually deserve . And yeah… I’ll tell you exactly who this program is for—and...

You’ve got the moves, the music, and the training—but let’s be honest, that’s not what keeps your students coming back. It’s not about the playlist. It’s about your why . This isn’t another newsletter filled with choreography tips and surface-level marketing hacks (though yeah, you’ll get a few of those too). It’s a bold, no-BS dive into what really makes your classes unforgettable—and your busine...

You’ve heard me mention Marissa—my right-hand woman and our Director of Professional Development at SharQui. But what you haven’t heard is the raw, real story of how she almost walked away from dance completely… until a chance YouTube scroll (and a misbooked fitness class!) brought her back to life. In this convo, Marissa opens up about being burned by the dance world, the fierce expressive drive...

“They’ll get it… if they keep coming back.” Ever hear that in a dance fitness class? Yeah, I’ve got some thoughts. Let’s be real: dance fitness should be fun, empowering, and accessible—not confusing, frustrating, and disjointed. But when you teach to the song structure (you know, intro-verse-chorus-bridge choreography madness), things can go south real fast—for your students and for you. In this...

Feel Weird About Selling? You’re Not Alone. In this episode, we’re diving into something that makes a lot of dance and fitness pros squirm— selling . Yep, we’re going there. If putting offers in front of your students or email list makes you feel awkward, icky, or straight-up gross...this one’s for you. I’m breaking down a new way to think about it (that might just flip the script for you), plus s...

You’re Not Just a Teacher. You’re a Marketer—Whether You Like It or Not. If promoting your classes or performances feels confusing, awkward, or just... not you, this episode is about to clear some things up. Authentic marketing isn't about flashy graphics or sounding like a brand robot. It’s about showing up as you —clearly, consistently, and with content that connects. In this episode, I’m walkin...

Yep, I’m going there. If you’re spending hours matching moves to the highs and lows of your playlist… we need to talk. It might feel creative and fun, but this common teaching style is silently sabotaging your time, your students’ progress, and—let’s be real—your paycheck. In this episode, I’m unpacking why choreographing to the structure of every song is one of the least effective ways to build a...

What if I told you that the opposite is actually true—and that sending more emails could be the very thing your business needs to thrive? In this episode, I’m breaking down the real secret to email marketing that gets opened, clicked, and actually makes sales. Spoiler: it's not about writing longer emails or pushing harder. It’s something much simpler—and honestly, most people are totally missing...

Ever notice how surprised people get when you simply show up for them? I’ve had this happen over and over—especially during course launches—and it got me thinking… maybe this level of personal connection isn’t as common in our dancepreneur world as we think. In this episode, I’m talking about the one simple move that can totally change how people see your brand—and trust me, it’s not about flashy...

You’re Posting, Promoting, and Still… Crickets? Let’s Talk. If you’ve been in the game for a while—posting consistently, trying trends, doing all the things —but you're still not getting traction, this one’s for you. This episode is a reality check (with love!) for the dancepreneurs out there who are doing the work but wondering why it’s not clicking. I’m diving into some hard truths, some sneaky...

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In this powerful episode of Belly Dance Biz Builders, I sit down with Tyra - an African dance teacher, fitness professional, and now a certified SharQui Instructor. Her story is a must-listen for any instructor who’s ever felt stuck, doubted themselves, or wondered how to grow their teaching skills and class size. We dive into: * Why Tyra shifted from traditional dance to fitness instruction * The...

In this episode of Belly Dance Biz Builders, I’m diving into a topic many instructors overlook: music. Not just picking good songs—but using nonstop, steady-beat music to create a class flow that actually keeps students moving, engaged, and coming back. We’ll explore: * Why song breaks are killing your momentum * How nonstop music makes your cueing and breakdowns easier * The secret to getting mor...

If your students keep fumbling or missing your transitions, you’re not alone - and it’s probably not their fault. In this episode of Belly Dance Biz Builders, I’m breaking down one of the most overlooked teaching skills: verbal cueing. I’ll explain: * Why cueing before the change (not during) is key * How using music with a steady beat (like 32-count tracks) makes cueing easier * The difference be...

Ever wonder why some students keep coming back and others drift away? It might not be your music, your playlist, or your moves. It’s your teaching . In this episode of Belly Dance Biz Builders, I’m diving into one of the most overlooked skills in the dance and fitness world: effective breakdown and build-up. I’ll explain: * Why simply “following the bouncing butt” doesn’t work (and never did) * Th...

In this episode of Belly Dance Biz Builders, we’re getting real about something most dance instructors ignore: your mindset. If you’re undercharging, undervaluing yourself, or feeling weird about raising your rates - you need to listen. I’ll share: * The simple mindset shift that can help you finally believe in your worth * A practical exercise to sell YOU to yourself first (so you can sell to oth...

Getting students through the door is one thing - but getting them to stick around? That’s where most instructors struggle. In this episode of Belly Dance Biz Builders, I’m breaking down why students ghost your classes after one visit - and how to fix it. Whether you’re a seasoned teacher or just getting started, I’ll help you think like a student so you can create an experience they actually want...

In today’s world, running your dance business without tech? It’s like teaching dance in the dark. In this episode of Belly Dance Biz Builders, I’m breaking down why embracing technology isn’t just optional - it’s essential if you want to grow. From streamlining your registrations to boosting your marketing and engagement, tech tools can make your life easier and your business more profitable. I’m...

In this episode of Belly Dance Biz Builders, I’m getting real about a question I hear way too often: “Why are you so salesy?” Here’s the truth: if you have a product or service that can change lives - whether it's a dance class, workshop, or instructor training - you have an obligation to SELL it. Yep. Selling isn’t pushy. It’s service. Listen as I break down: * Why being “anti-sales” is sabotagin...

Let’s be honest: 99% of your students are amazing. But what about that 1%? You know the ones - disruptive, difficult, or just straight-up disrespectful. In this episode of Belly Dance Biz Builders, I’m sharing two real-life stories about how I handled some of the most frustrating “class fools” in my 25+ years of teaching. From refund demands to students doing their own thing in the front row (yep,...

What Sets Successful Dance Business Owners Apart? Spoiler alert: It’s not just motivation or raw talent. In this episode, I’m diving into the real traits that separate the dreamers from the doers—and let me tell you, it’s personal. After being asked, “How do you get so good at teaching anyone how to dance?” at a recent pop-up class, I had to unpack what actually makes dance biz owners successful....

When Curiosity Gets Replaced with Assumptions: A Personal Story This episode is personal. I recently traveled to Nashville to perform and teach—and walked away shaken. Not because of a low turnout (though, yeah, that happened too), but because of the wave of assumptions, judgment, and online hate that came my way... before I even stepped on stage. Why? Simply because I’m Jewish. Because someone sa...