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Episode Overview
In this value-packed episode of School Owner Talk, Duane Brumitt and Allie Alberigo explore the most common mistakes martial arts school owners make—often without realizing it—and how to correct them. From retention and pricing issues to burnout and outdated marketing, this conversation is focused on helping school owners take back control of their business and reignite their passion.
Whether you are new to school ownership or have been in the game for decades, the strategies and insights shared in this episode are designed to help you work smarter, serve your students better, and build a stronger business.
Key Takeaways from the Episode
- Retention is more important than recruitment. If your school is constantly losing students, bringing in new ones will only mask the problem temporarily.
- Emotional connection is a major retention driver. When students and parents feel personally connected to your program and instructors, they are far more likely to stay.
- Many school owners underprice their programs out of fear or comparison. When you communicate your value clearly, you can charge what you’re worth with confidence.
- Relying on outdated marketing strategies like print or radio can waste time and money. A properly optimized online funnel, paired with current digital strategies, will generate better results.
- Burnout is real. Trying to do everything yourself will eventually lead to physical and emotional exhaustion. Delegation, scheduling, and boundaries are essential.
- A lack of systems and structure in your week creates inefficiency and stress. Building a routine that includes marketing, content creation, team meetings, and self-care is key to long-term success.
- Many school owners are not planning for retirement. Treat your business like a true business—save, invest, and build something that serves you in the future.
Final Thoughts
Running a martial arts school is one of the most rewarding professions out there—but only when it’s done with clarity, purpose, and strategy. Too many school owners are trapped in reactive cycles, trying to fix problems as they come instead of creating systems to prevent them.
This episode is a reminder that you have more control than you think. With the right mindset and action steps, you can build a school that not only changes lives—but gives you the freedom and lifestyle you deserve.
Action Steps for School Owners
- Audit your retention numbers and identify where drop-off occurs most frequently.
- Review your pricing. Are you truly charging what your value is worth?
- Update or optimize your digital marketing funnel. Make sure it’s aligned with today’s best practices.
- Block off time for self-care, strategic planning, and creative thinking each week.
- Document and delegate tasks so you’re not carrying the full weight of the business on your shoulders.
- Begin mapping out a retirement or exit plan now. Waiting too long to start will only create pressure later.
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