What They’re Saying
DBM Management Training Testimonials
BBS Business Management Graduate and Blue Belt Sensei Instructor
BBS Business Management Graduate and Red Belt Sensei Instructor
You certainly gave me great insight on how to improve how I teach my classes & how I conduct my business back in Atlanta. It was also great to meet other instructors & to have the opportunity to network with other dance studio owners all over the U.S.
I felt that your stories told was the most important part.
They were a great help in understanding the business side as a dance instructor, as well as the experiences that went on in getting to where you have become today. Another thing that I felt was most important – BLUE TAPE! I will attend another Instructors Training, in fact, I already have a few that are wanting to go to the next Instructors Training!
The BBS coupled with DBM is the ultimate cheat sheet! Years of attending congresses, collecting pieces of information, struggling to find quality instructors is no longer necessary to achieve the level of understanding I desire
The amount of new material is incredible I have been through the DBM twice in a six month period. The review of material presented from the first time I took the DBM was priceless. If you have not taken this course, you are missing out on a “golden” opportunity.
I am reenergized and personally very satisfied with myself for taking the DBM twice. It was well worth the time to help keep me better informed and remind me on the plethora of ways to grow my business, where the students are, how to retain the students, and how to continuously make money.
I love the idea that we are more than dance instructors and that we teach more than moves and patterns. We also teach personal development and life lessons.
For me the financial information was most important. Thank you so much, Edie! This is exactly what I wanted. I loved every minute of it. If the class had been half as long I would have felt like I got my money’s worth. This is a great deal! I am extremely excited to implement all of your ideas in my Swing dance classes and privates. Exactly what I needed. It’s so great getting this kind of information from someone who has been in the biz for so long. I really enjoyed all of the details about how you approach teaching classes, classroom management, privates, and marketing.
I was surprised that I was able to stay awake at such an early hour and for so long. I am very serious when I tell you that that is extremely unusual for me (especially in work meetings). I loved the stories and the content.
I like how specific you were about finances, training apprentices, and marketing, among other things. I liked all of the personal stuff – particularly about not being worried about competition, not badmouthing other people, and also having balance in your personal life.
I am amazed to learn that I can not only teach dance and live but it sounds like I can actually make a good living. It was fascinating. I plan to take the course again. So helpful!
It is a PhD in Business Management in a 24-hour format.
The DBM was a supreme wealth of information on every aspect of the dance business from development, administration, marketing, performances, congresses and event planning, travelling, coaching, training, etc. The DBM principals can encompass not only the dance business for independent instructors and studio owners, but also apply to every other type of business.
If it wasn’t for the blend of styles and techniques in the BBS I would have had a nightmare time. Went dancing last night here in my city. Really opened my eyes as to why we need the BBS and a structured syllabus. I danced with 10 different girls and each one did something completely different. Guys were struggling to lead these girls. But I was able to keep a Venezuelan girl happy by dancing “cumbia” and then moved to another girl who only knew LA. I ended up getting compliments all night from the girls I danced with because I adapted to them but still led. It was awesome.
I haven’t been at my studio for 4 months and Salsa Classes are at a 53% increase in students. The methods your DBM taught about leverage and looking for the right type of person to put in place has been a true relief and a boat load of fun from the student stand point!
The course was a steal at that price. So much information! I’m going to spend years digesting it all. Due to your vast experience in both the business realm and worldwide Salsa scene over many years, you have developed a truly remarkable dance specific business management course. The amount of information and wisdom that you impart during the DBM course is staggering. I have danced for quite a few years, but have always felt impaired at having an insufficient amount of business knowledge and marketing strategy required in order to turn my dance skills into a successful teaching career. After the DBM course, I feel empowered with the understanding and tools necessary to make this happen. I will be referring back to this course for years to come as I pioneer my dance future.
Edie, through your stories, tips, lectures, and presentation manner, I found all the material concise and detailed. It was easy to follow and understand. You are very personable, entertaining, and approachable. Thank you for helping me feel close despite the distance that actually exists between us.
There is just so much information. I will be digesting this information for years. I will need to study and take the time to review and really internalize what we have covered. The topics and quality of training are easily a 10 out of 5.
You made it soooooo much more accessible. Even just offering information on where to go for help was worth the price of the entire class!
For me, it was the bit about finding inspirational and influential people. I guess it is because this part comes naturally for me anyway. It is what drove me to take your training since you are one of the people that influenced my Salsa career from Day One. Finding others that inspire me is easy. I understand that constantly being inspired and listening to great thinkers / entrepreneurs / successful business professionals is extremely important. I plan to go back and listen to some of the speakers that you have suggested.
A University course is where this would TRULY SHINE. There is just so much information. Each section could be a week. With more time, each topic can be given a deeper focus. In a college course, instead of talking about designing a website, actually design one. Come up with trademark ideas. Actually implement some of the marketing ideas that we brainstormed. SO much potential here. Had this actually existed when I was in college, I think it would have easily been my favorite course…Perhaps most practical to my life too!
OUTSTANDING! PHENOMENAL! LIFE ALTERING!
I’d attended two of your classes prior to this (DBM and White Belt Certification) next level of certification. I had my chair upright, seatbelt buckled and my tray table stowed in the locked and upright position and still I wasn’t prepared for the level of instruction and intensity of these courses.
I’ve already integrated some of your methodologies into my classes with amazing responses
from the students. Any instructor who wishes to improve him/herself or wishes to run a dance studio or dance team more efficiently and successfully should attend your workshops at the earliest possible opportunity; it will change their whole outlook on dancing and teaching. Thank you for so openly sharing all of your knowledge and experience with me and with the world.
It was amazing! I learned so much and you are amazing at what you do!
It was the best time and money investment I’ve ever made! Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge with us 🙂 Wow! It’s very hard just to pick one since a lot of information [Edie] covered was amazing and mind blowing. I really enjoyed learning about unique teaching methods.
The BBS coupled with DBM is the ultimate cheat sheet! Years of attending congresses, collecting pieces of information, struggling to find quality instructors is no longer necessary to achieve the level of understanding I desire
The amount of new material is incredible I have been through the DBM twice in a six month period. The review of material presented from the first time I took the DBM was priceless. If you have not taken this course, you are missing out on a “golden” opportunity.
I am reenergized and personally very satisfied with myself for taking the DBM twice. It was well worth the time to help keep me better informed and remind me on the plethora of ways to grow my business, where the students are, how to retain the students, and how to continuously make money.
I love the idea that we are more than dance instructors and that we teach more than moves and patterns. We also teach personal development and life lessons.
Ever since the workshop, my classes have never been the same, it’s only better.
I just want to thank you for your help and advice. And today my wife and I will be performing at the SLC Salsa Congress, we’re very excited because we will also be teaching a “Tango Salsa” workshop. That is what we will be performing as well. I remember you telling us to always be original and different
How to start … OUTSTANDING! PHENOMENAL! LIFE ALTERING! I’d attended two of your classes prior to this (DBM and White Belt Certification) next level of certification. I had my chair upright, seatbelt buckled and my tray table stowed in the locked and upright position and still I wasn’t prepared for the level of instruction and intensity of these courses.
No one teaches the whys like you do Edie. In many, many, many seminars and classes that I’ve attended. They tell you what to do … but never the whys. You shared the whys, which in turn connected all of the dots. Being willing to recognize that I didn’t know what I didn’t know … made the it possible to see the connectedness. WOW! I’m preparing myself for the next belt now. I am convinced, “Clarity is the first lesson in learning”. You brought the clarity and I was more than able to learn!!!
Thank-you for taking the time and devoting the energy to designing and developing this system. You and your team deserve the highest accolades.
In the Navy we say Bravo Zulu when someone does something that deserves praise. BRAVO ZULU EDIE AND TEAM!!
“Edie, I truly believe you are the best instructor I have ever seen teach and it is YOUR styling and attitude I would like to promote in my new studio. I’m not sure I can find that with anyone else. ”
– Beatrix, Latin Dance Store, CaliforniaEdie, Just wanted to share my successes due to your training. Enrollment in my classes has increased, as well as my private lessons. My private lesson students are learning at an accelerated pace due to the techniques I learned from you.
I am currently working with a couple that is even considering coming to see you in CO for 30 hours of private lessons after I leave the area. When he first started taking my group class, he had difficulty finding the beat. It has only been a few weeks, and he is determined to ‘get this’. He now moves to the music and is enjoying the very logical progression through the moves. His wife works in an office full of men. It has been fun to watch her as I teach her to move with confidence, as a girl….the smile on her husband’s face as she ‘turns her girl on’ is so rewarding!
I am looking forward to my upcoming move, and finishing the next two belts with Baile con Sazon NC.
THANK YOU!
You have been an inspiration, not only in terms of your dancing, but also your business development and attitude in general. It will be an honor to be able to work with you.
So Rewarding and empowering… I don’t know who is happier, me or my students!
Just finished night 1 on a BBS lesson @ the rec … they had a blast!! The look on of the lead’s face was priceless…he said, finally, I can dance confidently from the get go, instead of waiting half a song to get my moves “on”!! ? The new information that I can give my students is so rewarding & empowering. Pure joy…in fact, sometimes. Thank YOU Edie!!”
You saved me YEARS of trying to figure things out.
The BBS coupled with DBM is the ultimate cheat sheet! Years of attending congresses, collecting pieces of information, struggling to find quality instructors is no longer necessary to achieve the level of understanding I desire
After taking various classes locally and nationally over the past 6 years of dancing Salsa, I have never had such a thorough or more well thought out course presented to me. The way the concepts are linked together, everything made sense! It was an intense process thus far but has been totally worth the effort! I look forward to further training in the BBS system!
This was my second instructor training course with you and this blew me away. I’m so happy that I attended
and had the opportunity to meet others with the same passion. I can see how much more you’ve added and the difference in focus on the physical training.
With BBS, a lead could run out of song with all the variations and spin offs of the moves!
In other Salsa classes, over time I was forgetting 80% of what I was learning. The BBS system of move/belt sequences is the key for getting leads up to par, fast!
The amount of new material is incredible I have been through the DBM twice in a six month period. The review of material presented from the first time I took the DBM was priceless. If you have not taken this course, you are missing out on a “golden” opportunity. I am reenergized and personally very satisfied with myself for taking the DBM twice. It was well worth the time to help keep me better informed and remind me on the plethora of ways to grow my business, where the students are, how to retain the students, and how to continuously make money. I love the idea that we are more than dance instructors and that we teach more than moves and patterns. We also teach personal development and life lessons.
I learned more from this two day webinar than I did in semesters of Business Courses at the University of Northern Colorado, Northern Arizona University, The University of Phoenix, and Adams State College.
Your work is amazing. I joined just few of your classes in Europe, and loved it. The most, how often the people are laughing and don’t recognize how much input they get…
Do you have a class where I can learn how to motivate and entertain more my classes? Some techniques … After good work and so on?
Thank you for your help!
“Thanks Edie Salsafreak. You played a major part in my growth as dancer. Always encouraging words.”
“Edie, Thank you for all the awesome energy! Every time I see myself climbing this ladder of life, I think of YOU Edie….I would not be here if it wasn’t for your help, guidance, and the opportunities you gave me. I can NEVER thank you enough 🙂 xoxoxooxoxoxoxoxooxox!!!I am quickly becoming indispensable to my new employer, and a huge chunk of what i can do now i owe it all to you Edie! I wouldn’t even be in the same place in life if it werent for you.”
FINALLY – A course that teaches a promoter how to promote successfully, a choreographer how to run a successful and profitable dance team, a performer how to make money performing locally and abroad and a studio owner how to run a profitablee studio. – J.H., Kansas City, KS
Edie, thank you for a growth experience I will never forget. In six (6) days you changed my life forever.
For me the financial information was most important. Thank you so much, Edie! This is exactly what I wanted. I loved every minute of it. If the class had been half as long I would have felt like I got my money’s worth. This is a great deal! I am extremely excited to implement all of your ideas in my swing dance classes and privates. Exactly what I needed. It’s so great getting this kind of information from someone who has been in the biz for so long. I really enjoyed all of the details about how you approach teaching classes, classroom management, privates, and marketing.
I was surprised that I was able to stay awake at such an early hour and for so long. I am very serious when I tell you that that is extremely unusual for me (especially in work meetings). I loved the stories and the content.
I like how specific you were about finances, training apprentices, and marketing, among other things. I liked all of the personal stuff – particularly about not being worried about competition, not badmouthing other people, and also having balance in your personal life.
I am amazed to learn that I can not only teach dance and live but it sounds like I can actually make a good living. It was fascinating. I plan to take the course again. So helpful!
The course was a steal at that price. So much information! I’m going to spend years digesting it all. Due to your vast experience in both the business realm and worldwide Salsa scene over many years, you have developed a truly remarkable dance specific business management course. The amount of information and wisdom that you impart during the DBM course is staggering. I have danced for quite a few years, but have always felt impaired at having an insufficient amount of business knowledge and marketing strategy required in order to turn my dance skills into a successful teaching career. After the DBM course, I feel empowered with the understanding and tools necessary to make this happen. I will be referring back to this course for years to come as I pioneer my dance future.
Edie, through your stories, tips, lectures, and presentation manner, I found all the material concise and detailed. It was easy to follow and understand. You are very personable, entertaining, and approachable. Thank you for helping me feel close despite the distance that actually exists between us.
There is just so much information. I will be digesting this information for years. I will need to study and take the time to review and really internalize what we have covered. The topics and quality of training are easily a 10 out of 5.
You made it soooooo much more accessible. Even just offering information on where to go for help was worth the price of the entire class!
For me, it was the bit about finding inspirational and influential people.
Comments: I guess it is because this part comes naturally for me anyways. It is what drove me to take your training since you are one of the people that influenced my salsa career from Day One. Finding others that inspire me is easy. However, I do understand that constantly being inspired and listening to great thinkers/entrepreneurs/successful business professionals is extremely important….Perhaps just the least important in the context of DBM. Perhaps just for me though. However, despite having said this, I still plan to go back and listen to some of the speakers that you have suggested.
A University course is where this would TRULY SHINE. There is just so much information. Each section could be a week. With more time, each topic can be given a deeper focus. In a college course, instead of talking about designing a website, actually design one. Come up with trademark ideas. Actually implement some of the marketing ideas that we brainstormed. SO much potential here. Had this actually existed when I was in college, I think it would have easily been my favorite course…Perhaps most practical to my life too…
Dear Edie,
Thank you for the Dance Business Management training and the Purple, Blue, Brown and Red Black Belt Salsa(tm) training. What an incredible experience to be trained by one of the world’s most famous Salseras and a living legend of Latin dance! The DBM and Black Belt Salsa training that I have received to date is the most comprehensive training programmes that I have ever seen. The Black Belt Dance(tm) system of delivering partner dance content, leading classes and operating a dance business is incredibly logical and smart. I firmly believe that anyone who follows the system will enjoy success in their dance career or business. I look forward to working with you to launch Black Belt Zouk(tm) and Advanced Presentation Skills for Black Belt Dance graduates in the near future.
Certified Professional Trainer
Black Belt Salsa and Black Belt Zouk Master Sensei
This has been an AMAZING journey for me Edie and of course this is just the beginning! I am HONORED to have the opportunity to be a part of something of this magnitude! Over time, it will impact me personally and of course my school in ways that I cannot even imagine!! I am loving it!
Okay…Let’s Dance
It felt good to be a part of teaching the white belt class at the Turnverein last night. Thank you for all your hard work and investment in us. I for one do appreciate you. You know this whole BBS thing is more than just training me how to teach Salsa…so much more.
Thank you Edie!
“It still astonishes me to understand how much training with Edie to receive my BBS Blue Belt has changed both my dancing technique and my presence while dancing. The first time dancing in Boston since returning from Denver, women smiled while dancing with me like they never had and exclaimed, “You’re not a Boston dancer! Where are you from?!” Little did they know I had received all my dance training but one week while dancing in Denver with Edie. That’s how much Edie changes and improves people’s dancing. It’s incredible!”
After taking various classes locally and nationally over the past 6 years of dancing Salsa, I have never had such a thorough or more well thought out course presented to me. The way the concepts are linked together, everything made sense! It was an intense process thus far but has been totally worth the effort! I look forward to further training in the BBS system!
I am so glad that I took time out to invest in myself by attending Edie’s “The Salsa Freak” Dance Business Management (DBM) and Black Belt Salsa (BBS) Program. Edie is best in the world! Not only did I learn how to instruct but also I learned how Salsa could have a breakthrough in your everyday life. I now have the skills, tools and knowledge to become the 1st Black Belt Salsa School in America. I am looking forward to teaching my student a syllabus that will get them on the dance floor the very first night and position them in the BEST SYSTEM IN THE WORLD.
Hi Edie….
You are amazing!! Thank you so much for all that you do to help me make the right decisions and stay away from mistakes that others have unfortunately had to go through. I really really appreciate your input and am putting to use everything that you share with me!! Thank you!!
Certified DBM Graduate and Black Belt SalsaTM Pro Trainer
Edie’s Dance Business Management course is a must for any dance school or dance school in-the-making. It outlines a smart, logical, efficient system – one based on several years peering behind the curtains of successful dance schools worldwide – for running a dance school.
Best money I’ve ever spent on business education.
So Rewarding and empowering… I don’t know who is happier, me or my students! Just finished night 1 on a BBS lesson @ the rec … they had a blast!! The look one of the lead’s face was priceless…he said, finally, I can dance confidently from the get go, instead of waiting half a song to get my moves “on”!! 🙂 The new information that I can give my students is so rewarding & empowering. Pure joy…in fact, sometimes. Thank YOU Edie!!”
Recent Blue Belt Graduate:
Thank you Edie… I’m glad I got to meet you and learn so much in the past 7 days… I’m grateful you exist and I’m excited to use the ideas you shared… Boston won’t be the same once we bring the BBS over there.
BBS Pro TrainerRecent Blue Belt Graduate:
Thank you so much! I was just telling Ulrich that you deserve all the good fortune that has come to you. You really are making ours and so many other peoples lives so much better! Looking forward to seeing you in the future! 🙂
Edie – thank you so much for spending time on the phone with me this morning. God’s blessed you with an abundance of energy and forethought in this business. It’s a pleasure to know you. You mentioned sending me the BBS newsletter – apprentice info? thanks- Make it a great day!
Dancing Brings Out the Joy in our Hearts!
“Edie,
Well the photos say it all.
I haven’t been at my studio for 4 months and Salsa Classes are at a 53% increase in students – especially White Belts. The methods your DBM taught about leverage and looking for the right type of person to put in place has been a true relief and a boat load of fun from the student stand point!
And what adds desert to this main course is that our Instructors at Baile con Sazón are all trained and certified Black Belt Instructors that are using 100% of the BBS teaching method taught from the Black Belt Dance System. My studio is on auto pilot while I fly to and from the United States opening up other branches of Baile con Sazón Academy’s.
All I can say is knowledge isn’t power unless you apply it!!! Thanks Edie “The Salsa FREAK!!”
“Edie, Thank you for all the awesome energy! Every time I see myself climbing this ladder of life, I think of YOU Edie….I would not be here if it wasn’t for your help, guidance, and the opportunities you gave me. I can NEVER thank you enough 🙂 xoxoxooxoxoxoxoxooxox!!!I am quickly becoming indispensable to my new employer, and a huge chunk of what i can do now i owe it all to you Edie! I wouldn’t even be in the same place in life if it werent for you.”
FINALLY – A course that teaches a promoter how to promote successfully, a choreographer how to run a successful and profitable dance team, a performer how to make money performing locally and abroad and a studio owner how to run a profitablee studio. – J.H., Kansas City, KS
Edie, thank you for a growth experience I will never forget. In six (6) days you changed my life forever.
The DBM was a supreme wealth of information on every aspect of the dance business from development, administration, marketing, performances, congresses and event planning, travelling, coaching, training, etc. It is perhaps the most comprehensive Business Management seminar I’ve ever seen.
The DBM principals can encompass not only the dance business for independent instructors and studio owners, but also apply to every other type of business. The DBM is a PhD in Business Management in a 24 hour format.
Edie candidly shares from her long experience in the business, both the good and the bad. By doing so she advises us of the peaks and pitfalls of the dance business, and she helps prevent us from making similar mistakes or getting taken advantage of by promoters, etc. She is very personable and pleasant to deal with. I look forward to a very long relationship with Edie the Salsa Freak.
Edie – thank you so much for spending time on the phone with me this morning. God’s blessed you with an abundance of energy and forethought in this business. It’s a pleasure to know you. You mentioned sending me the BBS newsletter – apprentice info? thanks- Make it a great day!
Dancing Brings Out the Joy in our Hearts!
I knew this course would have taught me many things as I have heard about you from different salsa instructors in London, UK.
But once on the course I felt so inspired as you were going through the different topics. And already after the first session my brain was so overcrowded with endless ideas and excitement that I could not sleep. And the excitement has raised session after session.
I do intend to follow all your tips some of which I have started to put in practise already.
Your DBM has definitely helped me to increase my confidence as well. A lack of confidence determined by the lack of knowledge.
After your course I feel like I know exactly what to do.
I am starting pretty much from zero. I have only taught a few private classes in my living room. And I am very excited at the challenge to create new salsa and kizomba group classes in a real studio that are different from what is currently offered in my area.
I can only thank you and I am looking forward to updating you on my progress.
Thank you very much for your remarkably precious teaching.
Just thought I’d share something interesting with you. Went dancing last night here in my city. Really opened my eyes as to why we need the BBS and a structured syllabus. I danced with 10 different girls and each one did something completely different. Guys were struggling to lead these girls
If it wasn’t for the blend of styles and techniques in the BBS I would have had a nightmare time. But I was able to keep a venezulean girl happy by dancing “cumbia” and then moved to another girl who only knew LA. I ended up getting compliments all night from the girls I danced with because I adapted to them but still led. It was awesome. Just thought I’d share this with you.
Just wanted to write and let you know what an exciting and excellent Purple belt training program I’ve had so far with Pete Swingle in Fresno! His energy, enthusiasm and genuine love of Salsa was totally amazing to be around!
I came to Pete looking to sharpen my instruction skills (I run Salsa4kids.com, direct an early childhood World music and movement program, as well as teach Salsa to adults here in the Bay Area) and was looking to get new ideas to grow and round out my teaching capabilities –
He’s done that and so much more! The way Pete has explained the BBS system to me has forever changed my style of teaching! His patience, expertise, versatility and unparalleled sense of musicality has made learning the BBS an accessible and creative experience all around! He is not only a stellar dancer, but a master teacher who is very focused on helping his students construct and maintain a solid foundation from which to build a lifetime of incredible teaching skills for youth and adults alike!
I very much look forward to continuing training and collaborating with Pete and meeting you sometime soon (I hear you may be coming to Fresno next year!) I’ve been a fan of yours for many years and have always truly felt inspired by your work…..
PS Do you follow Abraham Hicks? I have seen some of their quotes on your website – they are awesome…
All the best
Dear Edie,
How to start … OUTSTANDING! PHENOMENAL! LIFE ALTERING!
I’d attended two of your classes prior to this (DBM and White Belt Certification) next level of certification. I had my chair upright, seatbelt buckled and my tray table stowed in the locked and upright position and still I wasn’t prepared for the level of instruction and intensity of these courses.
No one teaches the whys like you do Edie. In many, many, many seminars and classes that I’ve attended. They tell you what to do … but never the whys. You shared the whys, which in turn connected all of the dots. Being willing to recognize that I didn’t know what I didn’t know … made the it possible to see the connectedness. WOW! I’m preparing myself for the next belt now. I am convinced, “Clarity is the first lesson in learning”. You brought the clarity and I was more than able to learn!!!
Thank-you for taking the time and devoting the energy to designing and developing this system. You and your team deserve the highest accolades.
In the Navy we say Bravo Zulu when someone does something that deserves praise. BRAVO ZULU EDIE AND TEAM!!!
Hi Edie….
I just had to take a moment to touch base with you and let you know that I simply cannot find the words to convey how excited I am about being a part of the BBS System!! I was in training most of the day with Willie and DJ and have learned so much! Willie is an absolutely fantastic instructor, not to mention a wonderful person, but he has made this training one of the best training sessions I think I have ever had. The material that we have covered is absolutely fantastic and I can already see how it is going to transform my students, classes, business, and me both personally and professionally. I already KNOW that this is by far one of the BEST INVESTMENTS that I could have ever made for my students and my dance company. I can see that there is exponential growth and opportunities now at my fingertips and the BBS (and I know the DBM as well) are showing me HOW to do it.
In addition, I just cannot say enough wonderful things about Willie. He is an absolute JOY to work with and has made this part of the journey so much fun! Though I am literally exhausted…..I can’t wait until tomorrow!! :-)I am SO THRILLED to be on this journey and can’t wait to move forward with the BBS!! I absolutely LOVED working on my purple belt and am so looking forward to the DBM and the other belts to come!! 🙂 I am really thrilled to be part of the BBS System and feel that my goals are now within reach! Thank you for having me as a part of the program and I am thrilled to have BCP be one of your test schools. I am so excited and honored to be part of all of this from the ground up – so to speak!!
Thank you so much Edie for allowing me and Baila con Pasión to be a part of the BBS System. So many great things are right around the corner!!
If you “did not” do the BBS and DBM, what would you do, how would you teach?
I’ve struggled to find a good model for teaching Salsa before I knew about Edie’s Salsa Syllabus…I tried writing syllabus with other stellar instructors but it’s always the same struggle figuring out what “cool” pattern you are going to teach in your next class. Half the students would NOT remember the cool pattern and I didn’t know how to teach them how to remember patterns. They always get “deer in the headlight” syndrome on the dance floor. AND retention of students has always been a struggle….they are interested for a semester and then they don’t come back.
I began teaching Edie’s Salsa syllabus 1 year ago and I’ve been able to offer Salsa Syllabus 101-102 for beginners and the 103-106 for intermediate/advanced; but again the retention consistency was always a factor!
NOW with the BBS Model….I had 36 students and only 2 stated that they would not return to class. The progressive system of BBS with intrinsic and extrinsic reward IS my new retention tool! Now there is a way for students to grow progressively! My student were so excited to receive a BBS Salsa Certificate! They were taking pictures of their certificates and posting them to facebook! It was so AWESOME!
I’ve taught without the BBS and the DBM and it was not as successful as my classes are now and will continue to be. Just the title alone in our course catalog “Black Belt Salsa” is attracting many students…I might have to put a cap on my class or offer a second section due to the large numbers! It’s so exciting! And they will continue to return!
I know I love “showing off” my Belts with pride! It’s now working toward an accomplishment in a very different way! They don’t feel like they are throwing away their money to come to class and not be able to take anything away.
Gratefully,
Edie, I have to say – even when my students initially “scrunch” their noses at the introduction of a “whole new way of doing things” … by the end of class, they pleasantly say, “Boy, that sure feels better!” ~ Music to my ears 😉 I LOVE IT! The BBS was exactly the medicine I needed!
So, DBM here I come … I will check the website and see when it is offered again.
Wow Edie! You picked the right slogan! That is exactly what I am thinking after our first coaching call and receiving my report. I called for advice on a dance/relationship problem and had no idea that our call would finally shake me out of my inertia and get me on the fast-track to achieving my dreams. I have always wanted to write, speak and have financial freedom and I know that with your expert advice, guidance and motivation that I am there. Thank you Edie, and I am looking forward to amazing things this year!
Edie,
I would like to thank you so much for sharing your knowledge and wisdom in the instructor class in Miami. I often think about that and how wonderful God is to have brought you here. I hope all is well with you. May God’s grace, love and peace be with you.
Much Love,
Edie,
Thank-you so very much for the time and experience (I received my certificate and belt saturday). I had a blast and learned a phenomenal amount. I have already started to apply the new skills and am in preparationfor the restructuring of my fall classes. I thank-you again and look forward to continuing my education andgrowth (as a dancerand instructor).
With all respect,
Edie,
I can’t stop thinking about all of the things that I need to get done in order to gain momentum w/ the salsa biz. Now I feel like there aren’t enough hours in the day to do everything I need to do, and this completely expands outside of salsa and into all other areas of my life. I’ve never been overtaken by anything with this kind of motivation before, and all of this started w/ the instructor weekend we had a few weeks back. Just thought I’d let you know.
Edie, you have helped me to re-align and focus my goals and dreams into what I truly want. You’re the best mentor a person could EVER have!
Thank you so much for all your help Edie.
Wow!
Wasn’t expecting to get a sample package of your hair, brace, and other products. I don’t have a big market to sell them at right now, but you never know….
Also got my lovely certificate, which I plan to frame and hang on my wall. Now I’m just waiting for my DVD’s so I can add to my dancer repertoire and improve my technique.
Thanks.
Hey Edie,
I’ve been a Salsadancer/instructor/choreographer for about six years; nevertheless, I learned a ton of new teaching methods and techniques in your instructor bootcamp as well as in your beginner bootcamp. I’ve already integrated some of your methodologies into my classes with amazing responses from the students. Any instructor who wishes to improve him/herselfor wishes to run a dance studio or danceteam more efficiently and successfully should attend your workshops at the earliest possible opportunity; it will change their whole outlook on dancing and teaching. Thank you for so openly sharing all of your knowledge and experience with me and withthe world.
Hi Edie,
I believe that you have already helped me visualize so many characteristics about myself, and goals that I need to achieve, in order to be a successful publisher, I believe that in the midst of helping others, my passion for learning, teaching, and experiencing all aspects of culture, through my experiences, as well as others, especially in the Arts, will all be expressed in writing, which is my natural gift.
The report was so very detailed, and helpful, I could not stop reading it. I looked forward to reading each page. It read like a great book that you couldn’t put down :-).
You are a true visionary!
Thank you,
Edie I cannot believe the amount of information you’ve given me. It’s mind-blowing. And I loved your report. I could not put it down. It’s like you saw right through me and forecast my future. I still can’t believe it – and we only spoke on the phone!!
I have paid other “life coaches” literally thousands of dollars and they didn’t give me HALF the quality of information you have. Your insight, your wisdoms really set my path straight. I truly look forward to our next session.
Edie,
Love your article. Yes you may post my response. If you want to read a lot about Tito Puente and the Mambo era and his roots my biography of him is at Amazon.com. …and my web site www.josephinepowell.com …. In the book I tell a lot of the background and origins of many songs that you and I still dance to. Interesting knowledge for Salsa buffs. Other than Tito’s book I’m completing an extensive movie documentary on Tito and am presenting it at the Havana Film Festival this coming December, 2010.
Edie, I so admire you. You are such a gem, full of knowledge and boundless energy, not to mention the finest dancer and teacher around. Keep in touch and I’ll keep reading your posts.
Best
The BBS program is the kind of salsa training that I’ve been wanting for quite some time! Most classes I’ve been to will teach basics and patterns, but the unique structure of the BBS program breaks down the components of popular moves to the point where you can “mix and match” the pieces to come up with moves on the fly. No longer am I remembering move after move, or pattern after pattern, now there’s a system in place that grants me the ability to be much more dynamic and in the moment on the dance floor.
This system is gonna blow up, and considering the value I’ve already received from it, I would strongly recommend that EVERYONE pay attention to the future of this program and partake in it!
Going through the Black Belt Salsa system has been a godsend, both training through it as a student and then later as an instructor. Having this solid system made my dancing skyrocket in a short time, and now as an instructor, it’s given me a proven method and confidence with which to teach my own students. I can now guarantee to get my students out dancing on the first night with a solid foundation in place that will nurture them as dancers. And not only have I learned the skills to teach students, but it has also given me an invaluable network of dance professionals that I can rely on as I grow my business.
Mark Reagain — BBS GraduateThe Black Belt Salsa training was phenomenal! What a wonderful and empowering approach to the REAL Salsa world. The BBS experience is absolutely invaluable. A very powerful technique to learn, one that will help your life both on and off the dance floor. Prepare yourself, this course is a life changing event!
The BBS Instructor Training System gave me a solid hands-on training along with clear, detailed explanations of the salsa syllabus 101-115. The hands-on training provided one-on-one experience to really learn, know, and be able to transfer that knowledge as an instructor to my students. I feel more “well-versed” in being able to teach the FOLLOW and the LEAD in addition to a “re-newed” confidence in having an explicitly detailed syllabus/curriculum that tells me what I need to teach each hour, each class, each week, etc…. The BBS system also keeps my students motivated to learn as it is sequential and progressive, so they CANNOT FAIL!
It is so time consuming and so frustrating to figure out what “pattern” or “set of footwork” or “choreo” to teach for my class each week! NOW, after the BBS system training, I don’t have to “make up” a pattern or spend time finding “salsa joe smo” on you tube to learn a new pattern for my next class. The BBS system tells me EXACTLY what to teach each hour of class with the flexibility to explore new moves/new patterns as they present themselves.
This BBS System is already creating waves here in Alamosa! It just might soon become the new “recruiting tool” for students to come to ASC! HA! My students are walking around as if they are the new “Bad Asses” on campus-I’ve never seen such confidence in them before! IT IS SO COOL, THAT I’M TEARING UP RIGHT NOW AS I’M WRITING THIS TO YOU! Thank you for training me to be the BEST TEACHER for them! I’m even walking around with a NEW ATTITUDE! LOL!
Wow my students were in shock! They couldn’t believe that we were on Skype with “Edie the Salsa Freak”! I have never seen them smile as much as they did tonight and all of a sudden the tangerines were there, the blade is getting better, they know how to ask the girl to dance and they are now dancing full songs with the new BBS basic using 101 underarm turns and CBL….we practiced/learned the elbow, tailbone wink and the pizza! They had so much fun! There is a renewed energy to work harder now and get rid of old habits or lazy habits (that I was letting them get away with)! I had one student texting her friend in C Springs teasing him that SHE was in a BBS class and that he isn’t!!! She told him that he should come to our BBS school! Wow, they are already recruiting hot bodies for me!What you did for ME and for my students tonight cannot be measured!
Edie, thank you for your time, research, feedback and energies!!! You are an amazing role model for showing us how to GET IT DONE!
Black Belt Salsa (BBS_ is a fantastic system and I’m so glad that I attended Edie’s class! I learned more in the 4 days that I spent with Edie than I’ve learned in years of attending other Salsa classes. I now feel that I’m equipped to teach Salsa in a way that my students will enjoy and will have them ready to dance socially in no time. Not only that, but I feel that I will be more efficient with my time and space. Edie is a Salsa GENIUS! She’s patient, talented, caring, intuitive to her students needs, and full of life and energy. I am now a more confident lead since Edie taught me a brand new basic, and I am a lighter follower. My spins are going to be phenominal using Edie’s technique and she’s inspired me to work hard to perfect my technique. I taught my students one of Edie’s right turns with ladies styling and they LOVED it. The arm carress is a beautiful move! Not only did Edie teach me valuable lessons for Salsa, she also gave me valuable life skills that my husband and I will apply to our relationship for years to come! Thanks for everything, Edie! My husband and I are so grateful to you and all you taught us! Black Belt Salsa is the best class ever!!!
Hi Edie! I recently attended the Instructor training at Palm Springs. First of all I would like to say that it was amazing! I learned so much and you are amazing at what you do! It was the best time and money investment I’ve ever made! Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge with us 🙂Wow! It’s very hard just to pick one since a lot of information she covered was amazing and mind blowing. I really enjoyed learning about unique teaching methods. That is new information to me and I have yet to see a dance class taught this way in my city.
I loved how Edie covered all aspects of teaching. For example, finding the one, breaking down the musicality of dance, how to teach, and the business portion as well. All the information and topics covered are essential to building a solid foundation.
All information covered was “out of the box” and I loved it was not your typical overview of how dance “should” be taught. I believe the class was very well organized and gave enough time for each topic covered.
“Dear Edie,
I just can’t thank you enough for your Life Coaching and Accountability Program. The most valuable part about it was the accountability. You have a way with words, actions, and beliefs that made me realize why my business was floundering.
One word: Procrastination.
I had too many things going on at once and I was going insane. You aligned my thoughts and my projects, and helped me GET THE RIGHT THINGS DONE. Finally. You saved me so much wasted time and money, I just can’t thank you enough. I’m happy to say that my business is fourishing again, and it’s all thanks to you Edie!
I just can’t say enough about you Edie. You’re truly one-of-a-kind.
Thank you.
It was great how you got the group “comfy” very quickly. I learned many great tips again, great tips!
This was a great class! Really solid methods of teaching that makes classes fun and effective. I really like how everything was broken down and how you made it easy to understand. I definitely recommend this course for Instructors.
Edie,
I was just showing one of our team members your “ladies styling volume 2” yesterday, and Hector and I were telling her how you’ve been one of our inspirations and how you’ve helped us grow with your training. We’ve been training her, so that she can help us with the classes; we told her you were the one who showed us how to get the members involved by implementing [your group class] concepts. Thanks for all your feedback.
Hi Edie my name is Junior Ryes. I took you instructor training program two years ago, it was the best investment I had made in a long time .
Now I need to continue and learn more. what is next in you program ? Thank for your help. Looking forward to hear from you and attend another seminar
Edie, Thank you so much for the enlightenment given through your instructor’s training course. The information and knowledge that you provided to us was worth much more than what the course actually cost! I will definitely utilize all that you have shown me in my recently started dance company! Thank you!
The White Belt Course was “Excellent” because I am a visual learner and learn best from diagrams. Edie uses concrete examples that help students understand. The presentation was well-organized and very well done. She uses tape on the floor which helped us to know where we should “be” on the floor. She gave an excellent explanation of timing, and how to find both the “1” and the “2”. I felt that Edie’s emphasis on the student’s perspective was the most important part of the training because as a dancer, we sometimes tend to forget what it’s like when someone has never danced before. This was a totally humbling experience for me as a “female” learning the “lead” part. I am going to THANK EVERY GUY who dances with me from now on! They have a huge job!
Edie,
…. you will have to see the fruits of your labor first hand, I think that we will have grown by 200 by then and it will be because of your ideas and influence. Your seminar helped us improve our teaching skills and taught us how to better manage and promote our Salsa dance business. Your energy is INFECTIOUS! You made the whole weekend business course FUN. Thanks so much.
Sincerely,
I took your Instructor Training class 3 years ago …. I was able to grow my business (as a Zumba instructor) and improve my instructor skills considerably thanks to your experience and training!
You have been an inspiration, not only in terms of your dancing, but also your business development and attitude in general. I have never known someone with your level of worldwide recognition who is so humble and approachable. It will be an honor to be able to work with you.
Edie, I really enjoyed helping your students choose the right Edie DVD when you were busy, for them to take away and I did stress they must practice a little every day. I teach 4 classes a week in my local community & I teach the Edie WAY!! THE BEST AND ONLY WAY!!Have a great rest of the world trip…catch up with you soon!
Yours forever in Salsa, From your Soul Sister
Edie this was an excellent class. It went by so quick – I didn’t event notice is was over! Very good material and very informative. All the information was vital and very pertinent. I don’t know how much more you could add to this! It was a LOT of material. Thank you.
Edie,
The thing that stuck in my mind the most was all business and marketing training that you can do in Salsa! What was most important to me was in the Level 2 in the workbook, everything that covers how to run a successful dance company and level 1, how to teach.
… and as for recommending this to other instructors? OHHHHH YESSSSS, Everybody need to meet Edie the Salsa Freak
Your empowering attitude, amazing energy and marketing ideas to penetrate the local market gave me the opportunity to live my dream and grow my studio members to new heights. You gave me good pointers from your experience working with other studios around the world; they really make a difference in making a studio work. Thank you so much for all your help!
Hi Edie,
It was really nice to meet you. I really enjoyed your instructor’s bootcamp this past week.You certainly gave me great insight on how to improve how I teach Salsa & how I conduct my business back in Atlanta.
It was also great to meet other instructors & to have the opportunity to network with other dance studio owners all over the U.S.
Looking forward to attending future Salsa Boot Camps with Edie!!
How are you Edie!! I hope you remember me, Irene Miguel from London (with my baby Liam) you have given me so much advice which I followed to the T’!!!
I am very very interested in your training for business in Salsa..I would love to take your course or somehow some advice on how to make my teacher and training systems an international success, a worked wide ,,,,is there any way I could train with you?? where ? how?
I truly admire you as a person, a business woman and a dance professional and appreciate very much every minute you have shared with me.A Year later…
Edie, Thank you so much and thank you for your wonderful advice it really helped me get on with my project
You are a big inspiration for me, even though we dance totally diferent styles, your entrepeneurial spirit, your decision power and the way you have and still handle your career is a big inspiration.
Thank you.
Yours truly
Edie, What can I say. I have never learned so much, in such a short period of time. The tips and tricks you taught us completely changed the way I think. The first thing I did was brainstorm with my staff about the changes we plan on implementing. You literally saved us tens of thousands of dollars, and countless hours. A million thanks. – Frank Russell, Los Angeles, CADear Edie, For the amount of information we get, YOU DON’T CHARGE ENOUGH!! Wow! This was one of the best courses I’ve ever taken! I learned so much. I know that now I have a complete arsenal of info that I will be implementing at my studio. l showed my boss your manual and it blew his mind. He plans on contacting you for more ideas. You’re not only beautiful, but you’re SMART too! (thought I’d throw that part in). – Rick Matthews
This was my second course with you. (my first was the DBM in Miami, FL, 2008) and this blew me away. I’m so happy that I attended and had the opportunity to meet others with the same passion. I can see how much more you’ve added and the difference in focus on the physical trianing
Thank you so very much again for the Training Bootcamp! I certainly had a blast!
I will be attending again. There was so much info to take in and plus its super fun, too!
I certainly learned that you can’t expect them learn as much as you want them to learn. Each student has their own reasons for taking Salsa dancing, and at times, they are happy just at a certain level.
What also stuck and a phrase I use now in teaching – “It is the man’s responsibility to make the woman FEEL good, and the woman’s responsibility to make the man LOOK good…” Awesome!
I felt that your stories told was the most important part. They were a great help in understanding the business side as a dance instructor as well as the experiences that went on in getting to where you have become today.
Another thing that I felt was most important – BLUE TAPE!
I will attend another Instructors Training, in fact, I already have a few that are wanting to go to the next Instructors Training!
Hi Edie,
Just wanted to thank you for all the time and dedication that you put into your “work”. I love learning and I enjoy learning from instructors that feel passionate about teaching, like you. This training was a true blessing for my husband and I. Not only did we get the training, but we also got the counseling. I’m sure your new idea of making a counseling DVD for couples would be a success. Couples can’t hear it from themselves that what they are doing is “wrong” or not the best way to handle conflict, they have to hear it from someone else. This training has instantly changed our lives and opened up a new door for us. There are so many new ideas that we have learned and will put into practice to have a successful business. The training was so much more worth than what we paid for it. We are so glad we came and look forward to continue joining you in many different boot camps and events. Happy New Year 2010!!!
I’m still reeling from all the information we reviewed during the seminar in Palm Springs. It’s going to take me a few weeks to digest all of it. It was a very comprehensive course full of new ideas from both an instructional and managerial perspective. In addition, the course has helped me take action on ideas & plans that I’ve been putting off for quite some time. Things that I know will really help grow my business. You really helped motivate me! It was an honor and a pleasure to interact with you. I sensed you sincerely wished to guide our group to achieve great things and had the right information to back it up. Thank you for your wisdom and patience and I look forward to seeing you again in the future.
The Instructor Bootcamp has been an eye opener for me. It will save me thousands of dollars and has shown me the right way to run my business. The written material, the oral presentation, dance training, and information on various aspects of running the business are all very detailed and to the point. The whole class was very interactive. I not only learned a lot, but had lots of fun. I would recommend this course for every Salsa Instructor in the World, to those who runs a Salsa Business, to those who own a dance studios, and performance teams. Thank you Edie. Your biggest fan!!! Sumit. Hello Edie, What a wonderful experience your course was! It was a great learning experience and I will definitely utilize all of the knowledge that was given for my company and encourage other instructors to take your course as well! You covered a lot of what I hadn’t thought of, things that if I would have known before starting out that I would have done differently. I would definitely recommend this course to all of my fellow instructors!
Tabatha DarbyHello Edie, This is Rodrigo Jimenez from Charlotte Salsa, I took one of your Instructor’s & business workshop in Miami. I just want to thank you for your help and advices. Ever since the workshop, my classes have never been the same, it’s only better. And today my wife and I will be performing at the SLC Salsa Congress, we’re very excited because we will also be teaching a “Tango Salsa” workshop. That is what we will be performing as well. I remember you telling us to always be original and different.
Thank you
Hi Edie,My name is Ray Gonzalez, I am from Worcester Ma. I attended your Instructor training course in July at Salsa Lovers studio. I wanted to let you know that just one hour into your course I knew it was going to be so helpful to, not only to my business, but also to my outlook of my business. I returned home with a burning passion to implement so many new ideas. I want to thank you for being the amazing person you are. You shared, informed and lit up a few light bulbs in that room over the 2 days. The great part is that you did it with a down to earth, humble, humorous and straightforward approach. I can see now why you are so sought after. Thank you so much and I pray that you can continue to share your vast experience with many more aspiring dancers and business owner for years to come. You have made me a “Salsa Freak” die hard fan. Ray Gonzalez
Salsa Storm Dance Instructors Inc.
Edie….
I learned so much this weekend. What stuck in my mind the most?……
– 4 week classes
– how to keep the guys
– I met new Salsa friends
– books….Master Key System etc.
– tips on working with children
– pretend your students are blind – be detailed with your instructions.
– videotape private lessons
– have chewing gum, mints…deodorant available
– “Bloom where you are Planted” (working on it)
– AND I actually enjoyed Rueda for the first time ever……
– and much much more….
Thank you for letting me take part. 🙂