We were lucky to catch up with Miranda Heitz recently and have shared our conversation below.
Miranda , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you tell us about an important lesson you learned while working at a prior job?
Kind communication, expectations and organization were the things I was shown in a very poorly way. I watched students leave and families upset constantly from the lack on the owners part on these three things. To be a business owner, these core things are most important. Know who you are and what client is suitable for you. When you bring in the right people for your vision, including staff, it all runs peacefully.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I’ve been dancing since I was 3 years old. I’ve been a Dance Major in college, in 3 Ballet companies and a Modern dance company. I have my RAD certification for teaching Ballet and am going on 30 years of teaching. I grew up in a toxic dance world and I’m doing my part in changing that. I don’t put down dancers for their bodies or limitations. I give a home for the “misfits”. I make sure students are comfortable with age appropriate music and costuming. I develop a relationship with my students from 3 years onto Senior graduates. It really is it’s own community at the end of the day.
What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
Authenticity and having a good reputation in the dance community. I’ve taught for many studios and built relationships with other dance instructors in my county for years before I opened my own studio. I receive support for most other studios owners because of a community over competition mindset. Being genuine to other leaders in your field gives you credibility.
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
When 2020 covid hit, I was devastated. I’d only been open 2 years and was gaining momentum when it all crashed. I continued to teach on Zoom (livestream) and offered anyone in the world to join in classes for a donation. We even had a socially distanced outdoor show on a stage by the water so the kids could still perform with masks on out in the open air. I had to use my savings and their were a lot of tears but enough of my families stuck with us that we eventually survived. We are now thriving and growing everyday 6 years later.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Mzdancecompany.com
- Instagram: Mz_dancecompany
- Facebook: Mzdancecompany
- Youtube: Mzdancecompany
