An inspiring journey of transformation, passion, and saying “yes” to unexpected opportunities.

In this episode of Penny for Your Shots, I chat with the vibrant and wise Tiana Ramirez—mom, entrepreneur, and co-owner of Fred Astaire Dance Studios Sarasota. What began as a college GPA booster class led to a full-blown career in ballroom dance, changing her life—and the lives of her students—in beautiful and unexpected ways.

From Hospitality to the Dance Floor

Tiana has only ever had two jobs: working at Applebee’s and teaching ballroom dance. She started as a hostess, became a corporate trainer, and later followed a nudge after college that changed everything.

As she told me:

“I saw an ad in the newspaper for dance instructors… and I said, wait a minute, you get paid to dance?”

That ad led her to a Fred Astaire studio, and within a day, she was in training—and never looked back.

Why Ballroom Dance Is More Than Just Dancing

Tiana explained that ballroom dance isn’t just about movement—it’s a full-body, brain-boosting workout. She’s taught triathletes who didn’t believe they’d break a sweat… and proved them wrong. The complexity of following and leading, coordinating footwork, and responding to music helps develop new neural pathways and enhances brain health, especially as we age.

One of my favorite facts she shared:

“One hour of ballroom dancing is equivalent to three miles of running.”

Yes, you read that right.

A Studio with Legacy and Heart

Tiana and her partner took over one of the oldest Fred Astaire studios in the U.S., which has now been part of the Sarasota community for nearly 50 years. While she didn’t start from scratch, she’s poured her heart into growing the studio, fostering a community built on connection, energy, and joy.

She still sees herself as a teacher first, but you quickly realize—she’s also a community-builder, a motivator, and someone who makes every student feel like they belong.

What Ballroom Dancing Can Do for You

From posture to balance to emotional healing, the benefits are endless. Tiana sees students come in using canes and eventually walking without assistance. She’s had couples reconnect, singles find their spark again, and retirees rediscover their confidence.

She recalled one transformation that stuck with her:

“We’ve had students walk in on a cane… six months later, they’re off blood pressure meds and not using a cane anymore.”

Nervous to Start? You’re Not Alone

For anyone wondering if it’s too late or if they’ve missed their chance, Tiana had this beautiful reminder:

“There is nothing better than being in a gentleman's arms who knows how to make you feel like a lady.”

And for the record—you don’t need a partner to begin. Many of her students come solo, and the studio provides qualified instructors to partner with you every step (or salsa) of the way.

Dancing as Communication and Connection

This part gave me chills. When describing the energy exchange that happens in dance, Tiana put it so simply:

“Ballroom dancing is like public speaking without using words.”

She explained how the nonverbal connection, trust, and physicality of partner dance allow people to communicate, connect, and feel seen in a whole new way. It’s therapeutic, empowering, and transformational.

She even shared a story about kids from conflicting backgrounds being partnered together in a dance program—and how it broke down walls and built bridges. That’s the power of movement and music.

Sangria, Superheroes & Celebrating Life

And of course, we wrapped with some fun. Tiana is a sangria girl through and through. She once threw a gender-swap superhero party (Captain America and Wonder Woman made appearances), complete with a Gatorade jug of homemade sangria.

Let’s just say: she knows how to teach the tango and throw a party.

Listen to the Full Episode

Whether you’re looking for a new hobby, a community, or just a reminder that you’re never too old to start something new—this episode will lift your spirits and maybe even get your feet moving.

📍 Learn more: fredastaire.com/sarasota
📸 Follow on Instagram: @fadssarasota