Starbound Unscripted

Jennifer Hawkins
  • 5.0 (2)
  • PERFORMING ARTS

Welcome to Starbound Unscripted—the podcast where studio stories, backstage laughs, and real performer moments take center stage. Hosted by Jennifer Hawkins, founder of Starbound Performers and mentor to thousands of dancers and teachers around the world, this show pulls back the curtain on the heart, hustle, and humor that fuel the performing arts world. Whether you're a dance parent, a passionate performer, an aspiring teacher, or just someone who believes in the power of movement, you'll find inspiration, insight, and a little sparkle here. Each week, we dive into everything from the studio floor to the stage—sharing candid conversations, personal stories, teaching tips, and our signature "chocolate moment" with a sweet message to reflect on. Real talk. Real moments. All unscripted.Because at Starbound Unscripted, we believe Every Performer is a Star!

  1. JAN 11

    Goal Setting, Journaling, and Growing in Every Area of Life

    Send us a text What if goal setting wasn’t about pressure—but about purpose? In this heartfelt episode of Starbound Unscripted, Ms. Jennifer Hawkins explores how meaningful growth happens when we look at the whole person—physically, intellectually, socially, and emotionally. Through personal stories, studio culture, and real-life examples, she shares why writing things down, reflecting often, and setting intentional goals can shape not just great dancers—but grounded, confident humans. Ms. Jennifer opens up about why journaling has been part of her life since childhood, sharing a powerful story about legacy, love, and the importance of recording life’s moments. She connects that legacy to today’s dancers through dance journals, goal tracking, and leadership practices inside the studio. ✨ In this episode, you’ll hear: Actionable goal-setting ideas for dancers, parents, teachers, and studio ownersWhy journaling matters at every age (and how it doesn’t have to be perfect)How Starbound Performers' monthly value of Goal Setting shows up in real lifeMs. Jennifer’s guiding words for the year: Joy, Connection, and HesedA surprise student spotlight celebrating a former dancer’s collegiate successIndustry inspiration from Alex Wong, including a personal memory of meeting him in personA very memorable Chocolate Break involving an automatic M&M dispenser 😄Whether you’re eight years old starting your first journal, a teen navigating growth, a parent supporting a performer, or a studio owner leading a community—this episode is a reminder that the small, intentional steps you take today matter more than you may realize. 🎧 Grab a notebook, take a deep breath, and join us for a conversation about growth, grace, and writing your story with purpose. Thanks for tuning in to Starbound Unscripted! Follow along for more studio stories, performer highlights, and sweet moments of inspiration. 🎧 New episodes every week—subscribe and stay Starbound! Find more at www.starboundunscriptedpodcast.com 🌟 www.starboundperformers.com | @starboundperformers Insta: https://www.instagram.com/starbound.performers/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StarboundPerformers

    17 min

  2. 12/26/2025

    From Stuck to Soaring: How to Make A Quantum Leap in Dance!

    Send us a text As we head into winter break and begin thinking about the New Year, this episode invites you to pause, reflect, and consider one powerful question: What if growth doesn’t come from working harder — but from making the right shift? In Episode 15 of Starbound Unscripted, Ms. Jennifer introduces the concept of a Quantum Leap — a small but intentional change that unlocks meaningful progress. Inspired by a powerful story of a fly trapped at a glass window, this episode connects mindset, teaching, and leadership to real-life moments inside the dance studio. This episode explores:  ✨ How dancers can break through plateaus  ✨ How parents can reframe class changes and feedback  ✨ How teachers can create breakthroughs through clarity, hands-on corrections, and intentional transitions  ✨ How studio owners can use mid-year as a pivot point for growth  ✨ Why New Year’s resolutions should focus on alignment, not pressure This episode is encouraging, reflective, and deeply practical — perfect for dancers, families, educators, and studio owners alike. Sometimes the door is already open. The shift you need might be smaller than you think. Thanks for tuning in to Starbound Unscripted! Follow along for more studio stories, performer highlights, and sweet moments of inspiration. 🎧 New episodes every week—subscribe and stay Starbound! Find more at www.starboundunscriptedpodcast.com 🌟 www.starboundperformers.com | @starboundperformers Insta: https://www.instagram.com/starbound.performers/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StarboundPerformers

    9 min

  3. 12/22/2025

    Why Supportive Staff Matters!

    Send us a text Behind every magical performance is a team you don’t always see. Over the past few months, Starbound Performers experienced one of the busiest seasons in our history — from hosting over 21 Fall Festivals, to overseeing daily entertainment for the Light the World Giving Machine experience, holiday school performances, city parades, and community events. In this episode of Starbound Unscripted, Ms. Jennifer pulls back the curtain to share why none of it would have been possible without an incredible support staff. This episode is:  ✨ A heartfelt thank-you to the team behind the scenes  ✨ An educational look at what support staff truly do  ✨ A reminder for students and families about gratitude and teamwork  ✨ A leadership message for studio owners and educators Whether you’re a dancer, parent, teacher, or studio owner, this episode will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the people who make the magic happen. Because great studios aren’t built alone — they’re built together. Thanks for tuning in to Starbound Unscripted! Follow along for more studio stories, performer highlights, and sweet moments of inspiration. 🎧 New episodes every week—subscribe and stay Starbound! Find more at www.starboundunscriptedpodcast.com 🌟 www.starboundperformers.com | @starboundperformers Insta: https://www.instagram.com/starbound.performers/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StarboundPerformers

    10 min

  4. 11/15/2025

    Ready, Set, Sparkle! Behind the Scenes of Dance Competition Season

    Send us a text It’s officially competition weekend at Starbound Performers — and we’re pulling back the curtain on how we prepare our dancers, families, and staff for a fun, positive, and organized start to the season! In this upbeat episode, host Ms. Jennifer Hawkins takes you behind the scenes of choosing competitions, preparing routines, building props, teaching awards etiquette, and creating unforgettable memories during dance convention and competition weekends. ✨ In this episode, you’ll learn: • How Starbound Performers selects family-friendly competitions aligned with novice and intermediate dancers • Why we attend a mix of dance conventions, stage competitions, and All-Star events • The full process of preparing choreography, costumes, props, and production numbers • What goes inside our famous Starbound Competition Packet (spoiler: EVERYTHING!) • How we teach dancers award ceremony etiquette and microphone confidence • Why kindness, connection, and sportsmanship matter more than trophies • How parents, students, and studio owners can make competition weekends smooth, fun, and stress-free • The importance of bonding at hotels and Airbnb’s • How we use photos, videos, and judges’ feedback to continue developing technique 💙 From handmade props and celebratory dinners at Texas Roadhouse, to handing out glow sticks and Starbursts to other teams, this episode celebrates everything that makes competition season uplifting, memorable, and meaningful for dancers. 🍫 Chocolate Break Message: “Shine bright — the world needs your light.” Whether you’re a dancer, parent, or studio owner, this episode reminds us that competition is about growth, teamwork, joy, and showing kindness everywhere you go. 🎧 Tune in and get ready to sparkle! Thanks for tuning in to Starbound Unscripted! Follow along for more studio stories, performer highlights, and sweet moments of inspiration. 🎧 New episodes every week—subscribe and stay Starbound! Find more at www.starboundunscriptedpodcast.com 🌟 www.starboundperformers.com | @starboundperformers Insta: https://www.instagram.com/starbound.performers/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StarboundPerformers

    14 min

  5. 11/04/2025

    How to Build a Values-Based Dance Studio: Where Every Performer is a Star

    Send us a text At Starbound Performers, our motto “Where Every Performer is a Star” isn’t just a tagline — it’s a way of life. In this heartfelt episode of Starbound Unscripted, host Ms. Jennifer Hawkins dives into how to create a values-based dance studio where every dancer feels loved, accepted, and capable of shining. From kindness and respect to confidence and gratitude, discover how strong studio values build not just better dancers — but better people. ✨ You’ll learn: How to communicate and live your studio values every day.Ways parents and teachers can reinforce positive character growth.Monthly focus values (October–September) and how to weave them into your classes, events, and community programs.Leadership tips for studio owners who want to build culture that lasts.💡 Plus: a new Starbound Challenge of the Month to help families and studios share gratitude and positivity across social media. 💬 Chocolate Break Message: “Let your values lead the way.” Whether you’re a dancer, parent, teacher, or studio owner, this episode is packed with inspiration and real-world ideas to help you bring your values to life — on stage and beyond. Thanks for tuning in to Starbound Unscripted! Follow along for more studio stories, performer highlights, and sweet moments of inspiration. 🎧 New episodes every week—subscribe and stay Starbound! Find more at www.starboundunscriptedpodcast.com 🌟 www.starboundperformers.com | @starboundperformers Insta: https://www.instagram.com/starbound.performers/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StarboundPerformers

    13 min

  6. 10/28/2025

    Harvest Hoedown Highlights: Fall Fun, Family, and Festivities!

    Send us a text It’s Fall, y’all — and that means it’s time for costumes, candy, and community! 🍂 In this episode of Starbound Unscripted, Ms. Jennifer takes you behind the scenes of Starbound Performers’ favorite Fall traditions — from the annual Trunk-or-Treat and Harvest Hoedown to local school and community performances. You’ll hear how these events bring dancers, families, and local partners together in creative and meaningful ways — and get insider tips on how to organize similar festivities at your own studio. ✨ Highlights include: How Starbound’s Trunk-or-Treat connects families and sponsorsBehind-the-scenes of Harvest Hoedown Week and Parent ViewingFun Fall games like Halloween Twister and Witches’ Broom RacesShoutouts to the amazing staff and administrative team who make it all happenTips for community performances and first showcases of the yearPlus, during our Chocolate Break, Ms. Jennifer shares a sweet reminder that sometimes the little moments — like a child’s smile or a proud parent’s clap — are what make life truly special. 🍫 Listen now and discover how you can bring a little more Fall magic to your own studio or classroom! 🎃 Follow Starbound Performers on social media for photos from this year’s events:  Instagram & Facebook → @StarboundPerformers  Podcast → Starbound Unscripted Thanks for tuning in to Starbound Unscripted! Follow along for more studio stories, performer highlights, and sweet moments of inspiration. 🎧 New episodes every week—subscribe and stay Starbound! Find more at www.starboundunscriptedpodcast.com 🌟 www.starboundperformers.com | @starboundperformers Insta: https://www.instagram.com/starbound.performers/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StarboundPerformers

    13 min

  7. 10/16/2025

    How to Juggle Dance and School Without Dropping the Ball

    Send us a text 🎧 School is back in session, and our dancers are feeling the pressure. Between homework, rehearsals, late nights, and early mornings, finding balance can feel almost impossible. In this episode of Starbound Unscripted, Ms. Jennifer shares real comments from dancers who admit they’re not quite managing it all — and that honesty opens the door for real solutions. From morning routines to after-school resets and smarter homework habits, this episode offers practical ways dancers (and their parents) can create balance without burning out. You’ll learn:  ✨ How to survive the school day with more focus and energy  ✨ Simple after-school reset routines that actually work  ✨ Smart study strategies for busy dancers  ✨ How parents can support balance through routines, rest, and encouragement  ✨ Why self-care isn’t selfish — it’s essential Because balance isn’t about perfection — it’s about progress, grace, and learning to give your best one moment at a time. 🎧 Listen now and share this episode with a dance family who needs a little encouragement this season! Thanks for tuning in to Starbound Unscripted! Follow along for more studio stories, performer highlights, and sweet moments of inspiration. 🎧 New episodes every week—subscribe and stay Starbound! Find more at www.starboundunscriptedpodcast.com 🌟 www.starboundperformers.com | @starboundperformers Insta: https://www.instagram.com/starbound.performers/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StarboundPerformers

    17 min

  8. 10/05/2025

    How To Fundraise with Purpose: Building Community & Sponsorships That Last

    Send us a text Fundraising doesn’t have to feel like begging for money — it can be one of the best ways to build community, connect with local businesses, and create opportunities for your dancers. In this episode of Starbound Unscripted, Ms. Jennifer Hawkins shares how Starbound Performers structures their fundraising program, from bucket drops and BINGO nights to Texas Roadhouse rolls, cookie sales, and more. You’ll hear how sponsorships strengthen business partnerships, why etiquette matters when dancers are out in the community, and practical tips that make fundraising manageable for families. Whether you’re a studio owner looking for new ideas or a parent curious about how fundraisers benefit your dancer, this episode is packed with strategies, inspiration, and plenty of real-life stories (including Ms. Jennifer’s not-so-secret love for Sweet Cups chocolate chip cookies 🍪). 💫 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why fundraising is about partnerships, not just dollarsA variety of creative fundraiser ideas that actually workHow to structure fundraisers fairly for familiesThe role of sponsorships in building long-term supportTips of the trade for keeping fundraisers fun and effective👉 Don’t forget to like, share, and leave a review — your support helps spread the Starbound sparkle even further! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/starbound-unscripted/id1827727824 Thanks for tuning in to Starbound Unscripted! Follow along for more studio stories, performer highlights, and sweet moments of inspiration. 🎧 New episodes every week—subscribe and stay Starbound! Find more at www.starboundunscriptedpodcast.com 🌟 www.starboundperformers.com | @starboundperformers Insta: https://www.instagram.com/starbound.performers/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StarboundPerformers

    16 min
See All (16)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Welcome to Starbound Unscripted—the podcast where studio stories, backstage laughs, and real performer moments take center stage. Hosted by Jennifer Hawkins, founder of Starbound Performers and mentor to thousands of dancers and teachers around the world, this show pulls back the curtain on the heart, hustle, and humor that fuel the performing arts world. Whether you're a dance parent, a passionate performer, an aspiring teacher, or just someone who believes in the power of movement, you'll find inspiration, insight, and a little sparkle here. Each week, we dive into everything from the studio floor to the stage—sharing candid conversations, personal stories, teaching tips, and our signature "chocolate moment" with a sweet message to reflect on. Real talk. Real moments. All unscripted.Because at Starbound Unscripted, we believe Every Performer is a Star!

Information

  • Creator
    Jennifer Hawkins
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    16
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Starbound Unscripted
  • Show Website
    Starbound Unscripted