John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) each share the three technologies they rely on to run their music studios more smoothly. The cover platforms from project management and scheduling to email marketing and team communication. They discuss tools like Trello, ActiveCampaign, Acuity/Squarespace scheduling, Slack, ClickSend, Canva, and payment processors, plus tips on choosing the right features and avoiding shiny-object overload. Many of these platforms offer free or low-cost options that work well for most studios, and the episode focuses on practical integrations that save time and reduce admin work so teachers can focus on teaching and growing their studios.   -------------------------------------------------- Your ratings and reviews on Apple Podcast and Spotify are always appreciated! Join our private Facebook group, "The Modern Music School," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights. Looking for a simple and effective guitar curriculum that includes FREE instructor training and support? Consider John's book, Complete Guitar Strumming.   

On this episode John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) reacts to Dave Simon's podcast about the three P's of music lesson success—pleasure, practice, progress—and proposes a fourth P: purpose. He argues that understanding why a student is taking lessons changes how we weight practice and progress, and can improve retention. The episode explores how emphasizing practice without knowing a family’s goals can push students to quit, offers practical thinking for teachers, and points to resources for redefining what counts as practice and aligning lessons with student purpose. Additional suggested listening: Music Lessons & Marketing: The 3 Metrics Parents Use to Define Music Lesson Success | EP268 Ep. 29: Dave Simon | Revisiting the 'Practice Problem' Ep. 30: Inside Look at Why Parents Pull Kids from Music Lessons Ep. 4: What "Counts" as Practice? Redefining Practice in Music Lessons -------------------------------------------------- Your ratings and reviews on Apple Podcast and Spotify are always appreciated! Join our private Facebook group, "The Modern Music School," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights. Looking for a simple and effective guitar curriculum that includes FREE instructor training and support? Consider John's book, Complete Guitar Strumming.   

Your website might be doing a great job explaining what you offer but is it helping parents feel confident about choosing you? On this episode of Rock School Proprietor Podcast, John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) are joined by Demitris Maddox (Provide Impact) to talk about the strategic use of video on your music school's website. Most schools still aren’t using video on their sites in the right way, and it is such low-hanging fruit to boost conversions and grow your studio. Demitris explains three easy to create videos to add visitor value to your website, and how strategic placement of those videos can go a long way to making better connections with prospective students and families. What Happens at The First/Intro Lesson? The 7 Top Questions Parents Ask Us What Happens When I Fill Out This Form? Demetrius explains how well-placed videos answer parents' questions, address their concerns, and build trust before they even reach out. The videos he recommends require very little effort and can be shot on your phone — this isn’t about fancy production, it’s about using video strategically to turn website visitors into enrolled students and build your music school.   To access the BONUS video mentioned in the episode, visit http://provideimpact.com/videofour To hear Demitris Maddox on a previous episode of the show: 40: Demitris Maddox | Designing Music School Websites That Attract & Convert ------------------------- Your ratings and reviews on Apple Podcast and Spotify are always appreciated! Join our private Facebook group, "The Modern Music School," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights. Visit the Resources section of our website to get FREE guides to help grow your music school, improve retention, and more. Looking for a simple and effective guitar curriculum that includes FREE instructor training and support? Consider John's book, Complete Guitar Strumming. 

On this Q&A quick-fire episode of Rock School Proprietor Podcast, hosts John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) answer three listener questions studio owners are asking: Investing in a licensed curriculum for group classes. What to consider, questions to ask, and where to start? Which studio management software is best? Core features like automatic billing and payment, schedule features, and add-ons. How to market your lessons when the concept of marketing seems overwhelming? John and Mandy offer practical advice to help you make choices that have the biggest positive impact on your studio. Additional resources mentioned in this episode: Episode 16: Unlocking the Secrets of Licensed Curriculum for Music Studios Episode 6: Mastering Music School Marketing with Adam Wilson - Part 1: Building your Brand Episode 7: Mastering Music School Marketing with Adam Wilson - Part 2: Your Marketing Plan   Your ratings and reviews on Apple Podcast and Spotify are always appreciated! Join our private Facebook group, "The Modern Music School," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights. Looking for a simple and effective guitar curriculum that includes FREE instructor training and support? Consider John's book, Complete Guitar Strumming.   

John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) discuss the fear and insecurity that arise when a new music studio opens nearby, sharing a personal story about feeling threatened and how that led to mistakes. They explore how to shift from reactive competition to a healthier, more constructive mindset. Practical takeaways from the discussion: compete with yourself learn from others stay true to your core values maintain an abundance mindset protect your mental health consider collaboration to strengthen your local music community.   Your ratings and reviews on Apple Podcast and Spotify are always appreciated! Join our private Facebook group, "The Modern Music School," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights. Looking for a simple and effective guitar curriculum that includes FREE instructor training and support? Consider John's book, Complete Guitar Strumming.    Episode Transcript:

Studio owner Darvin Lau (BayRidge School of Music) found his concerts costing more than they earned — until Mike Grande (Rock Out Loud Live) helped him change the playbook. On this episode John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com), with help from Mike and Darvin, walk through concrete steps that transformed Darvin's costly concerts into profitable events. Tips to make it happen: negotiating venue deals selling VIP tickets bundling registrations and tickets creating band slots instead of solos hiring photographers selling merch leveraging scheduling to retain students Hosts share practical examples, pricing tips and timing strategies you can use to make your recitals pay for themselves while improving the experience for students, families and staff. BONUS: download the FREE guide with all the tips form this episode, "How to Turn Student Concerts Into Profitable Events." Get it at https://rockschoolproprietor.com/resources/   Your ratings and reviews on Apple Podcast and Spotify are always appreciated! Join our private Facebook group, "The Modern Music School," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights. Looking for a simple and effective guitar curriculum that includes FREE instructor training and support? Consider John's book, Complete Guitar Strumming.    Episode Transcript:

On this episode John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) teach music school owners how to get free publicity. Newspapers, magazines, online outlets, and even TV news are regularly LOOKING for stories to cover. Knowing how to craft newsworthy stories, write effective press releases, build relationships with journalists, and use photos can increase your chances of coverage. We also explain why publicity can be more valuable than paid ads for long-term credibility and visibility. And the best part is that it doesn't cost you a cent!   Your ratings and reviews on Apple Podcast and Spotify are always appreciated! Join our private Facebook group, "The Modern Music School," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights. Looking for a simple and effective guitar curriculum that includes FREE instructor training and support? Consider John's book, Complete Guitar Strumming.    Episode Transcript:

In this episode John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) discuss why being selective about students and families helps you build the studio culture you want. They share real examples and practical strategies for setting expectations, protecting staff time, and aligning families with your lesson studio philosophy. Key takeaways include: Choosing the right students is crucial for studio culture. Building community among families enhances the studio experience. Clear communication of policies helps set expectations. Parents' expectations for practice should align with studio philosophy. Creating a positive environment for instructors is essential. Setting boundaries is necessary for studio management. Understanding family dynamics can aid in student selection. Regular feedback from families can improve studio offerings. A strong community attracts like-minded families.   Your ratings and reviews on Apple Podcast and Spotify are always appreciated! Join our private Facebook group, "The Modern Music School," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights. Looking for a simple and effective guitar curriculum that includes FREE instructor training and support? Consider John's book, Complete Guitar Strumming.    Episode Transcript:

On this Q&A episode of Rock School Proprietor Podcast, hosts John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) tackle a messy situation: a talented instructor with persistent communication and scheduling problems who has started teaching elsewhere and even picked up former students privately. They walk through how to decide whether to keep or cut ties, how to open a calm, curiosity-driven conversation, and practical steps to tighten communication and set clear expectations. Do you have a problem in your studio you think we could help with? Send us a message and we could do a Q & A episode discussing your problem.  Click here to send a message to Mandy and John.   Your ratings and reviews on Apple Podcast and Spotify are always appreciated! Join our private Facebook group, "The Modern Music School," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights. Looking for a simple and effective guitar curriculum that includes FREE instructor training and support? Consider John's book, Complete Guitar Strumming.    Episode Transcript:

John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) talk with Kristen Blanchard, 2024 Michigan Band Director of the Year. A middle school band director (Muir Middle School) of nearly 30 years, she shares how music education has evolved and how her methods have also changed over the course of her career.  Kristin highlights why creating a fun, engaging environment is so important in her band room.  They discuss practical approaches to practice, the value of performance traditions, and how private instructors and school programs can work together to grow lifelong musicians and music lovers.   Your ratings and reviews on Apple Podcast and Spotify are always appreciated! Join our private Facebook group, "The Modern Music School," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights. Looking for a simple and effective guitar curriculum that includes FREE instructor training and support? Consider John's book, Complete Guitar Strumming.    Episode Transcript:

In this episode John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) Kelly Bennett, co-owner of Valencia School of Music, about taking a group of teenagers from her music school on tour. They discuss all the challenges and successes involved in organizing this huge project. Kelly shares insights on how to create a supportive community for young musicians and the importance of performance opportunities in music education.  Kelly walks through organizing a student band tour from New Jersey to Nashville—covering timeline, budgeting, accommodations, chaperones, rehearsals, workshops, and live performances. She explains lessons learned and how Kelly is refining plans to make future experiences sustainable and meaningful.   Your ratings and reviews on Apple Podcast and Spotify are always appreciated! Join our private Facebook group, "The Modern Music School," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights. Looking for a simple and effective guitar curriculum that includes FREE instructor training and support? Consider John's book, Complete Guitar Strumming.    Episode Transcript:

In this episode John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) speaks with Brady Davies, the founder of One Music Schools. Brady shares his family's journey of opening a single piano lesson studio (The Piano Place), expanding to multiple locations, and now leading a company that purchase music schools. Join us as Brady delves into the intricacies of acquiring music schools, what he looks for in potential buys, and the seamless ways he integrates them into his successful brand while preserving their unique legacies. In this episode: Brady offers resources for music school owners looking to sell or improve their operations. How community and individual student engagement are essential for a successful music school. The things Brady and his company look for when considering a school for purchase. What the negotiation and purchase process looks like. Brady's post-acquisition focus on maintaining the legacy of the school as a priority. Tips for school owners to make their studio a valuable prospect for sale, even if they aren't looking to sell. Gain valuable insights into the importance of robust systems and processes in running multiple music schools efficiently, and why these are essential whether you are planning to sell or simply wish to streamline your operations. Get the FREE eBook, 6 Stages to Selling Your Music School, by visiting OneMusicSchool.com   Your ratings and reviews on Apple Podcast and Spotify are always appreciated! Join our private Facebook group, "The Modern Music School," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights. Looking for a simple and effective guitar curriculum that includes FREE instructor training and support? Consider John's book, Complete Guitar Strumming.    Episode Transcript:  

On this episode of the Rock School Proprietor Podcast host John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) has a fascinating conversation with Eric Bourassa (UnlimitedGuitar.com), the former owner of the Fort Worth Music Academy. Eric shares why he chose to sell his thriving music business and the personal insights he gained afterward. This episode unveils the intricacies of selling a business, the emotional journey involved, and the surprising regrets that came with it. In this episode: Eric emphasizes the importance of having a clear vision for one's career. The intense emotions involved in selling a business, and how they can influence decisions. The negotiation process in selling a business requires careful consideration and legal advice. Building a successful music school involves more than just financial success; community matters. Transitioning from a brick-and-mortar school to online teaching, and future plans to possibly return to a brick-and-mortar school. Eric candidly shares his motivations, the challenges he faced in the negotiation process, and how his passion for being a full-time musician influenced his decision. If you're contemplating selling your own music school or simply curious about the journey of a business owner, this episode is packed with valuable lessons and honest reflections.   Your ratings and reviews on Apple Podcast and Spotify are always appreciated! Join our private Facebook group, "The Modern Music School," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights. Looking for a simple and effective guitar curriculum that includes FREE instructor training and support? Consider John's book, Complete Guitar Strumming.    Episode Transcript:

Join hosts John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) as they celebrate a year of conversations on the Rock School Proprietor Podcast. In this special episode, they reflect on their journey of over 50 episodes, sharing their top takeaways from conversations and listener interactions. Mandy and John both share their top 3 most insightful episodes and why. Episode 2: Are parents the REAL students in music lessons? Episode 39: Taming Your 'Nope List' to Delegate Like a Pro Episode 18: Why Music Lessons are Losing to Sports Episode 33: Future-Proofing Music Lessons in the Age of AI Episode 21: Q&A Episode: How to switch from Private Lessons to Group Classes Episode 10: Prioritize Playing Over Teaching in Private Lessons Whether it's discussing the gap between traditional music method books and students' desires, promoting practical learning approaches, or exploring the innovative world of AI in music education, John and Mandy cover the spectrum of topics that impact music educators and studio owners. Tune in for a rich discussion that balances education with community-building, offering valuable insights for instructors and music lovers alike. Celebrate a year's worth of growth, challenges, and exciting content, and look forward to what the future holds for music education!   Your ratings and reviews on Apple Podcast and Spotify are always appreciated! Join our private Facebook group, "The Modern Music Schools," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights.

In this enlightening episode of the Rock School Proprietor Podcast, hosts John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) are joined by Nicole Kovar, founder of Piano and More. They discuss the ins and outs of operating a mobile music lessons school that only offers in-home private lessons. Discover how Nicole breaks geographic barriers by sending instructors to students' homes throughout Northern Virginia, making music accessible to everyone. In this episode: The unique challenges of promoting community and culture in the in-home private lesson environment Considerations for safety of both students and instructors in the absence of a brick and mortar studio location Nicole's inspiring initiative, "Play It Forward," dedicated to providing free instruments and lessons to families in need The pros and cons of establishing your studio as a non-profit organization, which Nicole has done with Piano and More. If you've contemplated how to navigate in-home lessons and set up a mobile studio, this episode dives deep into the challenges and rewards.   Your ratings and reviews on Apple Podcast and Spotify are always appreciated! Join our private Facebook group, "Performance-Based Music Programs and Rock Schools," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights.   Episode Transcript:

Join us on an extraordinary episode of Rock School Proprietor Podcast as host John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) welcomes back Mike Grande, owner of three music schools and founder of the Rock Out Loud Live online lesson platform. On Episode 24 Mike joined us to share how he was using TikTok Shop to sell his Card Chords product, and how it ultimately launched him into the top 4% of US sellers on TikTok. After his remarkable success, counterfeiting thieves hacked Mike’s website, locking him out of his bustling business. In this compelling conversation, Mike shares the challenging odyssey of battling counterfeiters across multiple platforms and countries, offering us valuable insights into intellectual property protection. Mike also gives us an exclusive first look at his latest invention, Kapsoul.  Tune in for an inspiring masterclass in resilience and entrepreneurship.   Your ratings and reviews on Apple Podcast and Spotify are always appreciated! Join our private Facebook group, "Performance-Based Music Programs and Rock Schools," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights.   Episode Transcript:

In this episode of the Rock School Proprietor Podcast, hosts John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) discuss hosting memorable events that do more than just showcase musical talent. Explore how well-run events can bolster community bonds, enhance your studio's reputation, and create lasting memories for students and families alike. All leading to greater retention and longevity in your studio! John and Mandy share their experiences and insights on what's made their events a success, including a deep dive into Mandy's ten-year studio anniversary celebrations. Learn about innovative event ideas like outdoor concerts, parent-only gatherings, and live collaborations that go beyond traditional music recitals. The duo also reveals how to simplify the process, offering strategies for efficient event management—think minimal effort for maximum effect. Whether you’re seeking ways to engage your local community, expand your brand reach, or just want to run smoother events, this episode is packed with actionable tips and creative ideas tailored for music studios.   Your ratings and reviews on Apple Podcast and Spotify are always appreciated! Join our private Facebook group, "Performance-Based Music Programs and Rock Schools," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights.   Episode Transcript:

In this episode of the Rock School Proprietor Podcast, host John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) delves into effective teaching strategies for neurodiverse students with guest Becki Laurent (The Music Studio - Lubbock, TX, Simply Piano), a respected music studio owner and educator. Becky shares her unique insights into teaching neurodivergent children by embracing her own ADHD as an advantage in the classroom. The discussion provides practical techniques that not only benefit those teaching neurodiverse students but also enhance teaching methods for all learners by understanding brain development and neuroplasticity.  In this episode: Becki shares how her own journey with ADHD has proved to be a superpower in her professional life, and how she leverages that knowledge when working with neurodiverse students How the umbrella term of "neurodiverse" can also present challenges in understanding difference in diagnosis like ADHA, autism, dyslexia, and more Practical techniques music instructors can use in lessons with neurodiverse learners Becki offers her top three tips for instructors to feel more confident when teaching neurodiverse students How the core aspects we discuss center on brain development and neuroplasticity, and can make you a better teacher with any student. Whether you're involved with neurodiverse students or not, this conversation is packed with tools and insights that aim to make you a more adaptive and understanding educator. Your ratings and reviews on Apple Podcast and Spotify are always appreciated! Join our private Facebook group, "Performance-Based Music Programs and Rock Schools," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights.   Episode Transcript:  

Join John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) on the this episode of the Rock School Proprietor Podcast as they introduce John's new book, "Complete Guitar Strumming." This episode delves into John's journey of writing a book that concentrates on building rhythm and timing skills for beginner to intermediate guitar players. Discover the inspiration behind the book as John and Mandy discuss the importance of focusing on the often-overlooked right hand in guitar playing. Gain insights into teaching methods with the accompanying instructor companion guide, which equips teachers with effective techniques to help students master strumming and chord transitions. Don't miss out on the opportunity to get your FREE copy of "Complete Guitar Strumming" and its instructor guide by leaving a review and reaching out. Tune in for this informative and inspiring discussion that's perfect for educators and players looking to enhance their musical skills.   Your ratings and reviews on Apple Podcast and Spotify are always appreciated! Join our private Facebook group, "Performance-Based Music Programs and Rock Schools," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights.   Episode Transcript:

In this insightful episode of the Rock School Proprietor Podcast, hosts John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) discuss the importance of taking time off as small business owners, particularly in the context of running a lesson studio. They explore the anxieties and fears that often accompany taking a break, such as concerns about lost income and the responsibilities left behind. The conversation emphasizes the need for proper planning, delegation of tasks, and setting boundaries to ensure a smooth transition during time off. They also touch on cultural perspectives regarding work and vacation, highlighting the need to build time off into business practices for better work-life balance. In this episode: Taking time off is essential for small business owners. Planning ahead can alleviate anxiety about taking time off. Identifying specific fears can help in managing anxiety. Delegating responsibilities is crucial when preparing for absence. Setting clear communication with staff is important. Cultural attitudes towards work and vacation vary significantly. Building time off into pricing structures can benefit business. Avoiding surprises for staff helps maintain a smooth operation. Trusting your team is vital when you're away. Taking breaks makes you a better teacher. Whether you're a studio owner or a teaching professional, this episode offers valuable tips for protecting your well-deserved break. Listen in and learn how to truly unwind without compromising your business.   Your ratings and reviews on Apple Podcast and Spotify are always appreciated! Join our private Facebook group, "Performance-Based Music Programs and Rock Schools," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights.   Episode Transcript: