We’re looking forward to introducing you to Molly Galbrecht. Check out our conversation below.
Molly, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
I know it might sound a little cliché except the gym has been such a happy place for me lately. Over the past two years, I have really gotten into lifting especially heavier weights and I leave feeling joyful and proud of what I have accomplished. I look forward to going, not just for the goals I have set for myself but also for the gym friends I have made there who share the same hobby.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am Molly Galbrecht, a dance instructor and artistic director of The Studio School of Dance. My sister Diane co-own our dance studio. We both grew up attending The Studio School of Dance and now have the joy of carrying on its legacy as owners and directors. Dance has always been a big part of our lives and sharing that passion with the next generation of dancers is what inspires us. Over the past eight seasons, we have built a studio family where students learn technique along with growing in confidence and creativity.
The Studio School of Dance provides dance classes to children ages 2-18 in a variety of styles such as ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, contemporary and leaps and turns. In addition, we offer two adult tap classes that have flourished thanks to the wonderful community formed among dancers who share a love for tap.
At The Studio School of Dance, our mission is guided by our five core pillars. We value collaboration as we believe we are better together. We strive to elevate to always encourage dancers to rise and grow. We lead with joy bringing love and positivity into every class and performance. We foster unity ensuring every dancer feels that they belong. Lastly, we aim to empower to build confidence from inside out. These pillars shape how we teach dance along with nature strong, creative and resilient individuals.
We recently began our eighth dance season and we are striving to grow our dance family community by welcoming new dancers, strengthening connections with our current families and creating an environment where every student feels supported and inspired inside and outside the studio.
One highlight from our past spring dance recital that truly touched me was a parent’s comment that they could genuinely see how happy all of our students are both on and off stage. Hearing this helped me fully understand the weight of those words and brought me immense joy, reaffirming that we are keeping the passion for dance alive in such a positive and healthy environment.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who taught you the most about work?
Now that I am older, I would definitely say my parents taught me the most about working. Their example of striving to do things the right way, even when it wasn’t easy, made a huge impact on me. Running a business and managing expectations can be taxing except they showed me that trying your best and putting forth your full effort is what matters most.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
Molly, you don’t need to strive for perfection. The best version of yourself will come from learning through mistakes, leaning on those who love you, and showing yourself the same kindness you so easily give to others. Remember along the way to slow down to let yourself feel joy in the journey.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
In the dance world, studio owners are told they have a “cute business”. It is common thought dance studios are not a real business that they are just a hobby. What most do not understand is it takes a lot of passion and work to run a dance studio and to thrive in this cut throat business. My hope is to change one mindset at a time!
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. If you retired tomorrow, what would your customers miss most?
Our families would miss the feeling of being a part of my dance family. At our studio, we have built a culture where we look forward to seeing each other, support one another and grow together. That sense of connection is special and honestly, it goes both ways. I would deeply miss teaching my students and being surrounded by the joy they bring each week.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://studiosodance.com
- Instagram: thestudioschoolofdance
- Facebook: thestudioschoolofdance
Image Credits
Molly Galbrecht
Dawn Conners
