Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Lyn Cole. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Lyn, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Do you take vacations? How do you keep things going – any advice for entrepreneurs who feel like they can’t step away from their business for a short vacation?

By taking a break from your regular activities, I give my body a chance to recover and replenish its energy levels. This can lead to improved focus, better problem-solving abilities, and increased productivity when I return to work or my usual activities. I step away from the physical part of my business (teaching) but I return calls and answer emails during week breaks. During the 2 week breaks I inform people that I will get back to them later. I learned from my previous employer that being burned out is so bad for my body and mind that even a 2 week break isn’t enough.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

Here’s an improved version of your paragraph:

I discovered my passion for dance at the age of 9 and nurtured a dream of becoming a dance teacher. Throughout my life, I have always centered my activities around creating and learning, and dance has been an incredible avenue for both. After completing college, I initially pursued a career in computer teaching and systems administration. However, my desire to freely share my love for dance led me to search for a place where I could teach with unrestrained passion. For 19 years, I taught Tap, Ballet, creative movement, and Hip-Hop at a location that gradually stopped providing the necessary support for myself and my students.

Recognizing an opportunity to support myself while also cultivating a strong following, I decided to take a leap of faith and establish my own dance studio, which officially opened its doors in December 2019. At my studio, I specialize in teaching Tap, Ballet, and Jazz dance, catering to both individuals and groups. Witnessing my students flourish and grow has been one of my most rewarding accomplishments. One particularly inspiring story involves a current student who underwent back surgery. Prior to the procedure, we focused on strengthening his leg and core muscles as much as possible. Following the surgery, our efforts shifted towards recovery from the back injury and healing from the surgical procedure. Initially, he could only endure a one-hour class by taking frequent breaks due to pain and discomfort. However, through consistent dedication, he now dances at his level for the entire 60 minutes and continues to gain strength with each passing week.

While teaching and creating, I find solace in unleashing my creativity and embracing my sensitivity. My ultimate goal is to encourage more individuals to embrace their authentic selves while pursuing their life’s work. If it feels like work, then it truly is, but if it feels like fun, then it undoubtedly is.

How did you put together the initial capital you needed to start your business?

Despite going through a divorce with just $300 to my name, I was fortunate enough to have a place to live, a job, and a clear vision for my future. Fueled by determination, I took on various jobs, including babysitting, providing companionship for my friend’s mother during late working hours, participating in surveys for extra income, and tackling odd jobs. Embracing a frugal lifestyle and prioritizing financial stability, I made it a habit to save every tax refund check that came my way, ensuring that I lived well below my means.

Through unwavering commitment to disciplined saving and effective financial management, I gradually accumulated a modest sum in my bank account. This newfound financial stability allowed me to take a significant step forward—I could now rent a space for my endeavors. With the help of generous donations from my students, friends, and the kindness of life itself, I was able to furnish the studio and create a welcoming environment. Resourcefulness became my ally as I sought out every deal and actively participated in auctions to acquire essential supplies like toilet paper, paper towels, a cooler, a ladder, and cleaning materials.

Through perseverance and an unwavering spirit, I transformed a challenging situation into an opportunity for growth. My journey serves as a testament to the power of determination, frugality, and resourcefulness in building a brighter future.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

Here’s an improved version of your paragraph:

The level of care and dedication I pour into my students and those around me has earned me a respected reputation in the Chicago dance studio community. I firmly believe in teaching with humor, fostering an enjoyable atmosphere while achieving remarkable results that cultivate strong and thoughtful dancers. My young students receive a solid foundation that not only benefits their dance skills but also extends to other movement modalities, providing them with a versatile toolkit.

For my older students, dance becomes a gateway to embracing dance history and igniting their creativity. They learn to craft their own dances, which can help them compose songs, write poems, and unleash their artistic potential. Meanwhile, the adults in my classes find a sense of belonging within a supportive community, along with a solid dance foundation that enables them to continuously improve and express themselves through movement.

I am fortunate to have an exceptional mentor and friend in Bril Barrett, whose guidance and support have been invaluable. Observing his own remarkable reputation and success, I am inspired to follow in his footsteps, channeling his expertise as a teacher, mentor, and friend.

Through my unwavering commitment to care, humor, and fostering a nurturing environment, I strive to make a positive impact on my students’ lives, nurturing their growth, and helping them discover the transformative power of dance.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.rhythmofthestreet.org/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lyncole_rts/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lyn.cole.14/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lyncole/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCppA4pkHQz4G9zXgw3tLcog

Image Credits
White background photos are from © William Frederking The 2 pictures that I took of my dance studio are mine. The rest of the pictures are from ©Tipping Point Photography