Rock School Proprietor Podcast

Latest Episodes:

55: Celebrating a Year of Rock School Proprietor Insights Aug 13, 2025

Show notes

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.

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.

54: Nicole Kovar | In-Home Lessons & the Mobile Studio Model Aug 06, 2025

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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:

53: Mike Grande | Battling Counterfeiters on a Wild Journey to Reclaim His Business Jul 30, 2025

Show notes

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:

52: Events That Build Community & Improve Retention Jul 23, 2025

Show notes

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:

51: Becki Laurent | Tips for Teaching Neurodiverse Students Jul 16, 2025

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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:

50: John Kozicki's New Book -- 'Complete Guitar Strumming' Jul 09, 2025

Show notes

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:

49: How to Take a Stress-Free Vacation from Your Lesson Business Jul 02, 2025

Show notes

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:

48: Mike McKinstry | From Passion to Profession -- The Lifestyle Business Journey Jun 25, 2025

Show notes

In this engaging episode of the Rock School Proprietor Podcast, host John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) sits down with Mike McKinstry, the charismatic host of The Bassquatch Hunter: Fish Out of Water on the Discovery Channel. Mike shares his unique journey of transforming his niche hobby of kayak fishing into a popular television show with millions of viewers.

In this episode:

How Mike began attracting sponsors with only 35 subscribers and seven videos on his YouTube channel
Keys to finding work/life balance; staying motivated and accountable to things we have to do as business owners and taking advantage of the benefits
How creating new opportunities for your business and those who work for you can be a powerful metric to measure growth
How diversifying to having options to shift focus can promote motivation and stave off burnout.

The discussion delves into vital aspects of creating a successful lifestyle business, such as work ethic, authenticity, and seizing opportunities. Whether you’re a music instructor, a budding entrepreneur, or just looking for inspiration, tune in to discover how passion and dedication can turn dreams into reality.

Season 3 of Bassquatch Hunter: Fish Out of Water premiers July 5, 2025 on Discovery.

Mike's Links:

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:

47: How to Talk to Parents About: Practice in Music Lessons Jun 18, 2025

Show notes

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) dive into a common question faced by music instructors: "How much time should my child spend practicing?" Challenging the conventional wisdom of setting specific practice times, they explore the broader, more complex conversation of engaging parents in music education.

In this episode:

How to navigate parental concerns and expectations without falling into the trap of a transactional practice routine
How to transform discussions about practice into opportunities for deeper understanding
Understanding both parent and student goals can help frame how to approach practice
How to explain the pitfalls of a transactional approach to practice, and how a student simply logging time to fulfill practice requirements can backfire
How offering comparisons with other kids' activities can shine a greater light on music lessons as an enrichment activity rather than a subject to study.

Perfect for instructors seeking to build meaningful relationships with parents and cultivate a long-term passion for music in their students.

Additional episodes related to this topic:

And visit our Resources Page on the website for the FREE guide: How to Redefine Practice in Your Music Lesson 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:

46: How to Talk To Parents About: What Age to Start Music Lessons Jun 11, 2025

Show notes

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) delve into the common questions about starting children in music lessons. Is there a minimum age requirement? Which instrument should they begin with?

In this episode:

Mandy shares insights from her extensive experience transitioning children from early childhood classes to more structured settings
John reveals the three essential questions he asks parents to help them make informed decisions about their child starting lessons
The value of exploring developmental readiness, instrument options, and play vs. learning provide over simply the age of the student
How parents are seeking guidance, and understanding their goals makes us more effective as instructors.

Mandy shares insights from her extensive experience transitioning children from early childhood classes to more structured settings, and John reveals the three essential questions to help parents make informed decisions. Whether you're a teacher or a parent pondering the right approach, this discussion offers valuable perspectives on fostering a love for music in young learners.

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:

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