The Wake-Up Call That Changed My Studio Forever

In this short and powerful episode of the Transform My Dance Studio In this candid and empowering episode of the Transform My Dance Studio Podcast, host Olivia Mode-Cater is joined by Inner Circle mentor Kelli Leighton for a real talk on student retention, re-enrollment strategies, and building a culture families can’t imagine leaving. 

Kelli opens up about her early years as a studio owner—when she didn’t even know the word “retention”—and the wake-up call that forced her to rethink everything. From creating inclusive pathways for beginners to structuring engaging programs for teens, Kelli shares how she built a thriving studio community where every dancer feels they belong. 

Whether you’re struggling to keep recreational dancers, facing parental pressure about level placements, or wondering how to engage senior students, this conversation will give you the clarity and confidence to build loyalty season after season. 

What You’ll Learn In This Episode: 

• Why focusing on why kids stay matters more than why they leave 

• How to design programs that serve both recreational and competitive dancers 

• The secret to building belonging: “It’s brave to be a beginner” 

• Why letting some families go is essential for protecting your community 

• Practical strategies to boost re-enrollment before recital 

• How to handle parent expectations about leveling up each year 

• Engagement tips that actually work for teens (and why music & trends matter) 

• The role of brand identity in building loyalty and confidence 

• Why clear communication beats assumptions with parents every time 

• How retention transforms not just your business, but your culture  

If you’re ready to stop the enrollment hamster wheel and finally build a studio families stay with year after year, this episode is for you. 

Kelli Leighton is the owner and artistic director of Leighton Dance Project in Folsom, California. A mom of four and an Inner Circle mentor, Kelli is known for building a studio culture rooted in connection, community, and belonging. She’s passionate about creating pathways for every dancer—whether recreational or competitive—and helping studio owners strengthen retention through systems, engagement, and heart-led leadership.

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