Beyond the Mats & Mirrors

Hosted by Stephen Reinstein

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Latest episode

Dec 2025

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EN-US

About the show

Beyond the Mats & Mirrors is the go-to podcast for martial arts and dance studio owners looking to grow, streamline operations, and increase student enrollment. Join us as we dive into insightful conversations with successful studio owners, industry experts, and marketing pros, uncovering strategies that drive success. From optimizing your business processes to leveraging cutting-edge marketing techniques, this podcast equips you with the tools and knowledge to build a thriving studio. Whether you're looking to enhance retention, boost revenue, or simply learn from the best, Beyond the Mats & Mirrors will help you take your studio to the next level!

Listen to episodes

10 recent

December 5, 2025Episode 331 min

From SEO to AEO Mastery: Stephen Reinstein’s AI Playbook for Studios

In this episode of Beyond the Mats and Mirrors, Stephen Reinstein breaks down the massive shift AI is creating in how families find martial arts and dance programs—and what studios must do to stay relevant. Stephen reveals why parents are turning to tools like ChatGPT instead of Google, how “Answer Engines” decide which studios to recommend, and the simple website updates that can instantly increase visibility. We dive into the rise of AEO, the power of consistent content, and how AI-driven follow-up is changing enrollment forever. Whether you're trying to modernize an outdated site, improve your rankings, or future-proof your studio as search evolves, this episode gives you clear, actionable steps to stay ahead instead of getting left behind.

December 2, 2025Episode 230 min

Donuts, Dedication, and Dominance: Kevin Krinsky’s Local Marketing Masterclass

In this episode of Beyond the Mats and Mirrors, school owner Kevin Krinsky shares how he transformed a side hustle into a thriving Taekwondo academy rooted deeply in community connection. We unpack his grassroots marketing playbook, from school partnerships and local events to his now-famous “TaekwonDonut” collaboration. Kevin dives into the power of showing up, building young leaders, and becoming the recognized face in his town. Whether you're looking to grow enrollment, strengthen community ties, or stand out in a crowded market, this episode delivers practical, down-to-earth strategies you can use right away.

October 14, 2025Episode 134 min

From UFC to Family Focused: Joe Lauzon’s Academy Success Secrets

In this episode of Beyond the Mats and Mirrors, UFC veteran Joe Lauzon shares his journey from pro fighting to running a thriving martial arts school. We dive into his people-first business model, scalable systems, and the secret behind his studio’s marketing success—hint: it's all about the photos. Whether you’re a new school owner or scaling your second location, this one’s packed with golden insights.

June 6, 2024Episode 948 min

Mass Enrollments That Actually Work: Michael Perri of MAIA / Championship Martial Arts

Join host Stephen Reinstein in an electrifying episode as he sits down with Michael Perri, the dynamic COO of MAIA and head of the Licensing Department at Championship Martial Arts. Discover groundbreaking strategies for boosting student enrollment through mass enrollments and learn how to keep the momentum going strong even during the summer months. Whether you’re a martial arts school owner, an educator, or simply passionate about growth and success, this episode is packed with actionable insights and expert tips that you won’t want to miss. Tune in and transform your approach to student engagement and retention today!

April 25, 2024Episode 855 min

8 - Duane & Lauren Spires - Success Team Coaching

Join Stephen Reinstein for an enlightening episode of the Market Muscles podcast featuring Duane & Lauren Spires from Success Team Coaching, who are renowned experts in transforming martial arts schools, dance studios, and childcare centers into highly profitable ventures. In this engaging session, they delve into proven strategies for boosting revenue, increasing student enrollment, and improving staff recruitment. Whether you’re aiming to enhance your summer camp or after-school program, Duane and Lauren offer actionable insights that can help you achieve a seven-figure success. Tune in to learn how to refine your business model, optimize operations, and lead your organization to new heights. Don't miss out on this opportunity to elevate your business with expert advice from the best in the industry!

March 30, 2024Episode 750 min

7 - Donovan Rider - CEO & Founder of Charleston Taekwondo (9 Locations & Growing)

Donovan Rider, CEO & Founder of Charleston Taekwondo joined The Market Muscles Podcast where he's charged insights into what's allowed him to expand to 9 martial arts, summer camp, and after-school locations in just a few years, with plans for many more!

January 18, 2021Episode 652 min

6 - Jason Silverman - CEO & Co-Founder of Powerful Words

Jason Silverman, CEO & Co-Founder of Powerful Words joins The Market Muscles Podcast to discuss his take on business coaching for child activity center businesses, his unique experience with "E-Myth" by Michael Gerber, and more.

January 7, 2021Episode 41 hr 1 min

4 - Mike Storms - Certified Health & Wellness Coach

Mike Storms, certified health & wellness coach + martial arts school owner, joins The Market Muscles Podcast and talks about the power of nutrition, choices, mindset, and more. Learn how Mike added over $20,000/month to his bottom line without any additional expenses.

January 3, 2021Episode 258 min

2 - Cris Rodriguez from Gracie PAC MMA

Cris Rodriguez, owner of Gracie PAC MMA out of Tampa, FL, breaks down what has made her school so successful. Learn the exact marketing strategies that Cris has implemented to her business which allows her desired lifestyle.

December 28, 2020Episode 156 min

1 - Frank Sahlein from 3rd Level Consulting

Frank Sahlein, owner of 3rd Level Consulting joins Stephen Reinstein to discuss business expansion, selling a business, and retirement, and how they all work for child activity centers such as martial arts schools, gymnastics studios, and more.