The Dance CEO Podcast
The Dance CEO Podcast
Audra Queen
The Dance CEO Podcast is where dance professionals come to grow — in business and in life. Hosted by coach and entrepreneur Audra Queen, this show combines real-talk solo episodes and honest guest conversations about what it actually takes to lead yourself well, build a sustainable business, and release the toxic patterns so many of us picked up in the dance world. Whether you’re navigating burnout, shifting your mindset, or redefining success on your own terms — you’ll find insight, support, and reminders that you’re not alone. Because your business is only as successful as you are doing personally.
77. Guest: Sophie McKie of Milibelle
In this episode, Sophie McKie, creator of Milibelle, shares her inspiring journey through dance, her artistic ventures, and her insights on authenticity, community, and self-growth in the dance industry.HIGHLIGHTSSophie McKay's dance journey and career evolutionThe intersection of art, dance, and advocacyBuilding inclusive communities through artworkThe importance of authenticity and vulnerability in teachingBalancing personal growth with professional pursuitsRESOURCESMillie Bell - Artwork and Community - https://www.instagram.com/milliebelldance/Sophie McKie's Website - https://www.milliebell.com CHAPTERS00:00 Sophie McKay's Dance Journey07:52 The Birth of Millie Bell15:36 Navigating the Entrepreneurial Identity23:45 Balancing Passion and Business28:05 Reframing Perfectionism30:40 The Importance of Taking Breaks31:10 Understanding Personal Challenges in Dance33:52 The Human Element in Teaching36:38 Recognizing Individuality in Dance38:10 Exploring Identity Beyond Dance40:45 The Limitations of Labels43:25 The Pressure of Expectations46:45 Creating Positive Energy in the Classroom51:00 Building Trust and Vulnerability54:58 Embracing Freedom as a CEO of Your LifeKEYWORDSDance, Art, Community, Self-growth, Entrepreneurship, Inclusivity, Creativity, Teaching, Mental Health, Personal Development
Jun 24
56 min
76. My Near Burnout & How I'm Coming Back
On the eve of her 41st birthday, Audra Queen reflects on her 40th year, sharing the challenges she faced and the unforeseen outcomes that occurred. She also announces something exciting for what's ahead for The Dance CEO Coach.HighlightsRecap of the challenging 40th yearWhat time allowed for herBig changes in her businessA renewed focus on what's ahead
May 21
21 min
75. Guest: Andy Seely of Creatively Disruptive Marketing Agency
In this episode, Andy Seeley shares his journey from sports coaching and owning a kids' activity center to founding Creatively Disruptive. He discusses the importance of mindset, strategic planning, building effective teams, and maintaining a long-term vision to grow and sustain successful dance and activity businesses.HIGHLIGHTSThe importance of mindset and long-term vision in businessStrategies for building effective teams and delegatingThe role of data and math in setting business goalsBalancing passion with business acumen in kids' activity centersAdapting to economic cycles and making hay while the sun shinesLINKSCreatively Disruptive Website - https://creativelydisruptive.comCreatively Disruptive Facebook - https://facebook.com/creativelydisruptiveCreatively Disruptive Instagram - https://instagram.com/creativelydisruptiveYouTube Channel - Creatively Disruptive - https://youtube.com/@creativelydisruptiveLinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/andyseeleyTwitter - https://twitter.com/andyseeleyCHAPTERS00:00 Introduction to Creatively Disruptive10:44 The Journey of Entrepreneurship in Kids' Activities18:27 The Importance of Team Building and Support30:25 Balancing Passion and Business in Dance Education34:09 Building a Successful Ecosystem34:56 The Importance of Delegation35:51 Driving Towards Goals38:23 Navigating Challenges40:15 Maximizing Opportunities43:06 Setting Long-Term Goals46:29 The Role of Teamwork48:51 Investing in Professional Help50:58 Creating a Roadmap for Success55:46 Mindset and Value Perception59:42 Being the CEO of Your Life
Apr 29
59 min
74. The People Pleasing Trap & Dance Business Owners
Audra Queen reflects on how people pleasing impacts dance business owners, sharing personal insights and practical strategies to set healthy boundaries, overcome fears, and create a balanced, authentic life.HighlightsThe impact of people pleasing on dance business growthStrategies for setting healthy boundariesOvercoming fears of rejection and lossThe importance of self-awareness and self-carePractical steps to shift from people pleasing to authentic livingResourcesCuriosity Call with Audra QueenChapters00:00The Challenge of People Pleasing in Dance02:43Overcoming Fear and Setting Boundaries05:39The Importance of Self-Reflection and Personal Growth08:07Curating Relationships and Access to Your Time11:19The Journey to Healthy Yes and No14:16Embracing Change and Personal Transformation17:06Celebrating Progress and Moving Forward
Apr 10
21 min
73. The Truth Why It's So Challenging To Sell To Dancers
Are you struggling to get dancers onboard or hesitant to sell your services? In this episode, dance CEO expert Audra Queen shares powerful insights into how scarcity mindset—particularly prevalent in the dance world—holds back growth and success. Learn how to shift your mindset, serve more effectively, and create a thriving dance business.HIGHLIGHTSThe core characteristics of the scarcity mindset among dancersHow limiting beliefs around money, time, and worth impact salesPersonal stories of overcoming scarcity and implementing mindset shiftsPractical strategies to meet dancers where they are and remove barriersThe importance of leading by example in service-based businessesDetails about the upcoming free Balance Dance CEO Schedule Reset workshopWhy investing in your mindset is crucial for sustainable growthRESOURCES & LINKSBalance Dance CEO Schedule Reset Workshop — Free, April 7th, ZoomCuriosity Call — No Hard Sales Chat To See If I am Able To Support You On Your JourneyCONNECT WITH AUDRA QUEEN:Instagram - @TheDanceCEOCoachEmail - [email protected], your mindset around scarcity or abundance directly influences your capacity to serve dancers and grow your business. The shift begins now—take action, invest in yourself, and lead by example to unlock your full potential.
Mar 11
15 min
72. Sacrificing Yourself For Your Business Is Hurting - Not Helping
Are you putting everyone else before yourself? It's time to flip the script! In this episode, we dive into the crucial need for dance professionals to prioritize themselves in order to achieve true success. Remember, self-care isn't just a luxury—it's a necessity! The conversation delves into the importance of prioritizing oneself in the dance world, challenging the culture of putting oneself last, and the impact of personal focus on professional success. It also explores the depth of self-care and the significance of addressing personal challenges for sustainable growth.HighlightsPrioritize Yourself for lasting successSustainable ShiftLinksInstagramYoutube PodcastThe Dance CEO CoachChapters00:00 The Importance of Prioritizing Yourself05:09 Balancing Personal and Professional Life11:13 The Depth of Self-Care
Feb 11
13 min
71. Navigating the Trust Recession: Strategies for Dance Business Owners
In this episode, the host - Audra Queen, discusses the concept of a 'trust recession' impacting businesses, especially in the dance industry. As trust declines, it's becoming harder for businesses to convert potential clients. The rise of online businesses and AI has made trust a scarce commodity. To combat this, the host suggests being genuine, consistent, and transparent. Building long-term relationships rather than seeking immediate transactions is crucial. Dance entrepreneurs should offer more face-to-face interactions and engage authentically with their community to rebuild trust and ultimately achieve business growth.What are you thoughts about the Trust Recession and how to navigate it?Let me know via one of the ways below:Instagram @thedanceceocoachEmail: [email protected]
Feb 5
14 min
70. The Unexpected Turn My Life Took When I Turned 40
In this episode of Season 4, I answer the question "what happened to the rest of season 3?!" It's a story worth listening to.I share the details of my personal challenges and the mistakes I made in my business along the way.If you've been following along, thank you and thanks for continuing to be here even after a pause.If you're not so interested in the story, no worries. Just skip ahead to the next episode! It's one you definitely don't want to miss.Also...we just launched the youtube version of this podcast! You can go there by clicking here to watch this episode instead of just listening. Make sure to subscribe and follow!What did you think of this episode? Let me know by contacting me via the following methods:DM on Instagram: @thedanceceocoachEmail [email protected]
Feb 5
12 min
69. Guests: Abun(dance) Podcast Hosts Kristen Faraclas & Hannah Schayes
So excited to share with you this weeks episode guests, Kristen Fraclas & Hannah Schayes, co-hosts of the Abun(dance) Podcast. In this dicussion we talk through the process of how their podcast came to be, their dance backgrounds and next steps for each of us. If you've wondered what it's like to be a podcast host, especially in the world of dance, this is the episode for you.    Highlights: How a traditional dance path can lead to unexpected careers What it's like starting and hosting a dance podcast What's ahead for the future   Links/Free Resources: Laban Notation The Dance CEO Society™ Community   Follow & Connect: @abundance_podcast @kristen_faraclas @hannah_schayes @thedanceceocoach [email protected] 
Aug 20, 2025
51 min
68. What To Do When The Clarity Isn't Coming...Yet
Today's epsiode dives into why clarity isn't coming, how to stop forcing it to come and what to do instead to make it a more easeful process.  Speaking from personal experience of trying to force clarity for years in all areas of my life, the shift into ease and trusting the process has been a game changer. And I invite you to do experience the same transformation I have.  Topics Discussed: What it means when the clarity isn't coming What you can do to get ready for when the the clarity comes What to do when you feel in a holding pattern   Learn More: The Dance CEO Society   Follows & Contacts: @thedanceceocoach [email protected]
Jul 30, 2025
9 min
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