Fireside Chat with the Johnstons

The Teen Brain...Buffering...

Why do teenagers make baffling decisions, feel things at full volume, and occasionally behave like over-caffeinated raccoons with WiFi access? In this episode of Fireside Chat, we dive into the adolescent brain—yes, the real science behind the mood swings, the risk-taking, and why “logical reasoning” is basically still in beta.
Danielle breaks down how the teenage brain develops, what’s actually happening neurologically during those intense moments, and how coaches can respond with something other than existential dread.You’ll learn:Why teens react before they think (hint: their prefrontal cortex is still under construction)How to decode teenage behavior using brain sciencePractical tips for surviving—and even thriving—while working with adolescentsWhether you work with teens or just live near one, this episode will help you understand what’s going on in their heads… even if it’s still buffering.

Stars, Stripes & Staff Who Don't Need You

This 4th of July, let’s talk gym owner freedom—the kind where your gym runs like a machine, and you’re not the one refilling toilet paper or answering panic texts during family BBQs.
In this episode, Danielle breaks down what independence actually looks like for gym owners, including how to build systems, delegate like a boss, and finally stop mistaking burnout for “the grind.” Spoiler alert: if you have to be there every day, it’s not a business—it’s a job. Tune in to hear:Why burnout isn’t a badge of honorHow to build a staff that doesn’t need babysittingSteps to design a gym that gives back your time, sanity, and SaturdaysYou started this gym for freedom—time to claim it.

Small Gyms Unite!

In this powerful episode, Danielle sits down with Cat Weeden—owner of Luxe Cheer in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and co-founder of the Small Cheer Gym Association—for a raw and honest conversation about the current state of the all-star industry. Together, they explore why small gyms make up the backbone of cheer and why it's more important than ever that they come together to advocate for change. If you’re a small gym owner looking to feel seen, heard, and empowered—this is the episode you’ve been waiting for.

Fixing the Summer Slump: Smarter Revenue Strategies for Gym Owners Who Deserve a Break (But Won't Get One)

Fixing the Summer Slump: Smarter Revenue Strategies for Gym Owners Who Deserve a Break (But Won't Get One)
Summer slowdowns aren’t new—but they don’t have to wreck your bottom line. In this episode, we flip the “summer slump” into an opportunity with five smart, actionable revenue strategies for gym owners. From skill clinics and micro-sessions to filling dance gaps and managing cash flow, we’ve got you covered. Walk away with:5+ summer-friendly offers that actually sellA better cash flow plan (no more robbing Peter to pay Paul)One simple next step to boost revenue—fastPick one idea. Execute it this week. Let’s fix summer before spring breaks you.

Blind Spots & Business: Why You Can't See Your Own Mistakes

Coaches are pros at asking for feedback — on routines, legality, and performance. But when it comes to running the business? We often tough it out solo… and pay the price. In this episode, Danielle digs into the blind spots gym owners face outside the gym floor — from rocky onboarding to quiet events — and how hidden inefficiencies can stall your growth. If you'd never skip feedback before a comp, don’t skip it in business. Let this episode be your review session.

Coaching Your Own Kid: The Most Personal COaching You'll Ever Do

Coaching your child is one of the most emotional, challenging, and rewarding roles you’ll ever take on. In this episode, we get real about the blurred lines between parent and coach, the emotional highs and lows, and the behind-the-scenes moments no one sees. Plus, I’m sharing practical tips, funny stories, and the boundaries that have helped our family make it work.

Drama-Proofing Your Program: Surviving the Parents

Teenagers are dramatic, but parents can be worse. In this episode, we give you the survival guide you didn’t know you needed for maintaining peace in your gym during peak drama season.

Rebuilding After a Dumpster Fire Season

Every gym has That Season. You know the one. We’ll walk you through how to debrief, regroup, and rebuild after a year that nearly made you quit. Dumpster fires make great fertilizer, right?

Your Gym is Not Your Therapist: Detaching Your Identity from Your Business

Do you feel your gym’s highs and lows in your soul? That’s probably not healthy. This episode digs into how gym owners can create separation between who they are and what they do—because your gym is not your therapist, and neither is your inbox.

My Gym is Full, But I’m Empty: When Success Isn’t What You Thought

You hit the milestones. Your teams are full. On paper, you’ve “made it.” So why does it still feel... off?
In this candid Fireside Chat episode, we’re exploring the emotional burnout that doesn’t come from failing—but from achieving everything you thought you wanted. We’ll talk about why success can feel hollow, how your business might be thriving while you feel disconnected, and what it takes to realign your goals with what truly lights you up.Whether you’re feeling stuck, stretched thin, or just quietly wondering, “Is this it?”—this episode will hit home.