In this episode of the Scrappy Piano Teacher Podcast, I’m talking about what “back to basics” actually means for a piano studio that is already full and running.

This conversation came from a season where I realized I had said yes to too many things and needed to pause and ask what was still serving me and what wasn’t. Not because anything was failing, but because things had started to feel heavy and unclear.

We talk about why studios can feel exhausting even when nothing is technically wrong, why burnout often shows up before performance drops, and why resetting a studio can feel so hard once it’s already in motion. I share insights from education psychology, including why motivation usually comes after action, not before, and how early decisions around schedules, policies, and expectations can quietly lock us into systems that no longer fit. Psychology calls this path dependence.

I also walk through four foundational anchors that can help you reset your studio without starting over. This isn’t about tearing everything down or lowering your standards. It’s about clearing out the clutter so the studio you already built can actually support you long term.

If you’re feeling behind even when you’re on top of things, constantly tweaking but never settling, or tired in a way that rest alone doesn’t fix, this episode is for you.

If you want to go deeper with this work, my Studio Reset Cohort is open for registration through February 6. You can find all the details at
scrappypianoteacher.com/reset

I’m also hosting a free Scrappy Circle teacher meetup called Let’s Talk Recitals with Janna Williamson on February 13 at noon Eastern. You can RSVP at
scrappypianoteacher.com/scrappycircle

Thanks so much for listening. I’m really glad you’re here.

In this Ask Me Anything episode, I’m answering real questions submitted by music teachers who are navigating real life situations. This is the first AMA episode, and we’re talking about two topics that come up constantly but are rarely explained simply.

First, I answer a question from a teacher who unexpectedly needed to move and transition students to online lessons. I share my honest thoughts on choosing an online setup, why simple is often best, and how hybrid approaches using recordings can reduce pressure during live lessons.

Next, we dive into taxes. Specifically, where to pay quarterly estimated taxes if you have only ever paid once a year. I am very honest about this being one of my weakest areas, why that is incredibly common among independent music teachers, and why getting teacher specific financial support can make a huge difference.

This episode is for teachers who want reassurance, clarity, and practical next steps without feeling judged or overwhelmed.

Helpful links mentioned in this episode

Studio Reset Cohort
Registration is now open
www.scrappypianoteacher.com/reset

Join my email list
www.scrappypianoteacher.com

Online teaching platforms
Muzie.live
www.muzie.live

Online teaching support and setup help
www.teachmusic.online/blog

Tax help and financial support for music teachers
Tax specific services
www.musicstudiostartup.com/services/

General financial education for musicians
www.musicianandcompany.com

If you have a question you would love answered in a future Ask Me Anything episode, make sure you are on my email list so you can submit it next time.

In this episode of The Scrappy Piano Teacher Podcast, I’m joined by Amy Chaplin from Piano Pantry to talk about digital organization and why it matters far more than most teachers realize.

We discuss how digital clutter quietly drains mental energy, why email overwhelm is so common for music teachers, and how organization systems should support your life rather than add more pressure.

This conversation is especially helpful if your inbox feels out of control, your files are scattered everywhere, or you keep telling yourself you’ll “organize it later.”

● Why digital organization is not a one time project● How cluttered files and inboxes contribute to burnout● Where to start when everything feels overwhelming● The importance of small, maintainable systems● Accountability and learning alongside other teachers● Using tools like Notion in a flexible, realistic way

Organize Your Life with Notion

February 27, March 6, March 13 @ 12:30-2:30pm ET

https://pianopantry.com/notionwait

Organize Your Digital Life (Retreat)

Summer 2026

https://pianopantry.com/digital-organization-retreat/

Organize Your Digital Life (Zoom)

TBA 2026-2027

https://pianopantry.com/organize-your-digital-life/

Subscribe to the Scrappy Piano Teacher

www.scrappypianoteacher.com