3. The third place (Bears) got back to me around 3 hours later. Apparently I had already reached out to them a couple of months ago inquiring about day time lessons and they said they didn't have any but sent me a list of their current times. They, by far, have the most days and times offered. At the end of my initial inquiry they also asked additional questions to try to continue the conversation, but I had already written them off because they didn't offer morning classes and that's what I needed at the time. 

They answered the questions the most clearly. $79/month for two lessons a week and we can choose the class days that work for us each week. We start with their $38 intro course which is 3 trial lessons and a uniform. ​

I haven't made a final decision yet, but I'm leaning strongly towards Bears because they offer the most class times and days and have the best offer. They seemed like the most knowledgeable and professional of the three. 

Though Lions is the cheapest, most convenient location, and offered a free trial class, I just didn't get a good vibe from them. I'm still not sure what they do and it doesn't sound as good as the other two. There's a good chance that we still go and do the free trial class though just to check it out and so that I can see what my son feels about it. 

Tigers sounded the most like what I'm looking for (With balance/speed/agility skills) but the class times were very limited and the offer was too expensive and too lengthy for a 4 year old. The monthly part was the most expensive of the three. They also offered a free trial class and I'll probably take them up on it. 

Bears won me over with their responses and their offer: $38 for 3 weeks and a free uniform is a great deal and will give me just enough time to see if we want to continue. I plan to get started with them later this month and maybe check out the free trials from the other classes over the next few weeks. 

Closing Thoughts:

1. I'm just looking for something fun and cool for my kid to try. He's 4. We aren't serious about this. He just wants to pretend to be a ninja and I think learning self-control could be beneficial for him. 

I think parents looking for music lessons for kids (especially young kids) feel the same way. They are just looking for something fun and interesting for them to try. 

2. The Trial Offer was a big factor for me. Lions and Tigers offered a free trial class and I'll take them up on it. Even though I probably won't pick them, I like the idea of being able to see what they offer. They have big classes, so this really doesn't cost them anything. The Lions' $38 offer is a great offer. 

We need to have GREAT trial offers for kids when they want to sign up for music lessons. A free lesson did not sway me in the least but a great offer made me want to sign up. The value compared to the price is outstanding and I'm in. 

3. I've heard great things about Bears and they even stopped by our studio last year to exchange business cards. They also had the most reviews. I don't know if they are the best place for martial arts, but they run the best business.

Overall, I think we have a lot to learn from studying other businesses and our own shopping habits. What have you learned from local businesses?
​-shane

I try to include an extra bonus or two each month for Patrons.

​There are currently 5 bonus posts in the Patreon, including some free previews of my courses for Ukulele and Building a Better Website. 

For $5 each month, you get the Monthly Guide & Checklist as well as the Monthly Video.
​I regularly post polls so that you can vote on what you would like the next guide and videos content to be about. 

You also get access to all content from January - March and any bonus materials posted. ​

For $20 each month, you get everything from the $5 level (Monthly Guide, Checklist, Video, Bonus Content, Voting on Polls) AND...
​
A Monthly Analysis of your Website or Social Media. 
Access to participate and watch replays of our Monthly Mastermind Sessions. 

You also get access to all content from January - March and any bonus materials posted.
***ONLY FOUR SPOTS REMAINING.*** 

For $100 each month, you get everything from the $5 level (Monthly Guide, Checklist, Video, Bonus Content, Voting on Polls) and everything from the $20 level (Monthly Website/Social Media Analysis, Monthly Mastermind Session) AND...
​
A Monthly 60 Minute One-on-One Video Consult to grow your studio. 

I am currently consulting with 7 studio owners each month with a wide variety of studios and geographic locations. I work with studio owners of all ages in all 4 US time zones, England, and Australia that range from just getting started with their studios to much bigger studios. Some are working on growth. Some on goal setting and achieving goals. Some just need help with organization and some accountability. 

Honestly, I think the biggest help is just getting an outside opinion on your studio and getting some one-on-one support on a regular basis. Running a studio can be frustrating and lonely and it's really nice to get a fresh pair of eyes and someone to talk to and bounce ideas off of. 

I LOVE this stuff. I LOVE working with studio owners and helping them to get organized, set goals, and grow their studios. I love helping them figure out new roles and transitions as they move into new stages with their studio. 
​
You also get access to all content from January - March and any bonus materials posted.
***ONLY ONE SPOT REMAINING.***  

My goal was to pack a CRAZY amount of value into each one of those price points.

​I want to help studios grow in a way that won't totally break the bank.

If you're ready to make the jump and go to the next level,
we would love to have you join us.

​I look forward to seeing you on Patreon!
​-shane