Elizabeth Balint shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Elizabeth, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
I always smile when my students want to tell me about their personal lives. They value my opinion and know I’ll share their excitement.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Elizabeth Balint, and I’m the Owner and Artistic Director of Achieve Dance Academy in Spring, TX. We’ve just kicked off our 5th season, and I’m continually amazed by the growth I see—not only in our dancers but in the studio as a whole.
Recently, Achieve Dance Academy was honored as the 2025 Best Dance Studio in The Woodlands, and I couldn’t be more proud. I believe this recognition stems from our unwavering mission: to help students grow in spirit, character, and dance.
Our families come to us seeking strong technical training, which is essential. But what truly sets us apart—and keeps them coming back—is the kindness, passion, and heart that infuse everything we do.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
As a child, I rarely saw women leading businesses or making big decisions in the professional world. I knew that I was smart and was determined to prove that leadership was a space for women.
Now, as the owner of a small business, I’ve seen firsthand how capable, resilient, and visionary women are. We’ve overcome so much, and continue to rise.
I use my experience to empower every dancer who walks through our doors—regardless of gender, race, or background. I want them to know they don’t have to fit into anyone’s box. They can dream big, lead boldly, and shoot for the stars.
When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
I’m not sure I’d call it personal pain, but rather a deep frustration with the stigma that exists in the dance world. For too long, dancers have been stereotyped by size, gender, age, or race. It’s a narrow view that doesn’t reflect the true spirit of dance.
Owning my own studio gives me the power to push back against those limitations. At Achieve Dance Academy, we welcome everyone. My mission is to help each dancer grow strong—technically and personally—regardless of who they are or where they come from.
We may not erase these stereotypes overnight, but I believe that challenging them, even in small ways, is how real change begins. That’s where the power lies.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I’m deeply committed to Achieve Dance Academy and its continued growth. I have a clear vision of what the studio can become. While we’re not there yet, we’ve made tremendous progress.
One example is our competition team, which entered its third season last year. At several events, Achieve Dance Academy swept the podium—earning 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place in the same category. Moments like these remind me that we’re on the right path, and I’m excited to build on this success for years to come.
I’m also committed to creating a permanent, purpose-built space for our dancers. A studio with all the amenities a dance academy deserves—not just a space that “works,” but one that inspires.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. If you retired tomorrow, what would your customers miss most?
I always joke with my husband about all the things we’d invest in the studio if we ever hit the lottery. Truthfully, money isn’t what will make me retire—and hopefully, that day is still far off.
When that time does come, I think what our families will miss most is how their voices are truly heard, and how compassion is woven into everything we do. At Achieve Dance Academy, we give generously—of our time, our care, and our energy—and in return, our community reflects that back. It’s what makes this studio such a special place to be.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://achievedanceacademy.com/
- Instagram: @achievedanceacademy
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AchieveDanceAcademy
- Other: TikTok – @achieve.dance.academy
