Starbound Unscripted

Jennifer Hawkins
  • 5.0 (3)
  • 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. 5D AGO

    Am I Good Enough? The Conversations Dancers Are Having.

    Send a text In this episode of Starbound Unscripted, we’re talking about the quiet conversations many dancers are already having — about food, bodies, mirrors, comparison, and the question we don’t always say out loud: Am I good enough? Through personal stories, a powerful classroom moment, and an eye-opening London façade analogy, we explore how easily strength can be misunderstood and how self-talk shapes confidence far more than appearance ever could. We’ll pause for a meaningful Chocolate Break, discuss how mirrors influence dancers’ inner dialogue, and share practical guidance for dancers, parents, teachers, and studio owners who want to build healthier, more supportive environments. We also highlight industry inspiration from Misty Copeland, whose perspective on strength, fuel, and longevity continues to reshape conversations in the dance world. This episode isn’t about rules or blame — it’s about awareness, care, and choosing a better story. Key Topics: Mirrors, self-talk, and comparison in danceA real classroom conversation about food and worthStrength being mislabeled — and how to reframe itWhy nutrition conversations are often really about belongingPractical self-talk tools for dancers, parents, and educatorsChoosing care over criticism🎧 If this episode resonates, we invite you to like, share, or leave a review — it helps this podcast reach dancers and families who need these conversations. 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

    15 min

  2. FEB 6

    Aiming at the Right Target

    Send a text As the 2026 Winter Olympic Games begin, this episode invites us to pause and reflect on a powerful question: What are we really aiming at? Inspired by an Olympic story about perfect execution and misaligned focus, Ms. Jennifer Hawkins explores how effort alone isn’t always enough — alignment matters. Drawing from recent leadership retreat insights, studio life, and real moments inside Starbound Performers, this episode connects the dots between dance, life, leadership, and love. You’ll hear: A powerful Olympic lesson on aim vs. executionReflections on clarity, focus, and letting go of distractionsA heartfelt student spotlight that captures Starbound’s February value of LoveIndustry inspiration from Misty Copeland in honor of Black History MonthGratitude for community partners who support Starbound Performers dancersUpdates on themed summer camps, the Starbound Performers VIP Experience, and a sneak peek at Creative KrittersWhether you’re a dancer, parent, teacher, or studio owner, this episode is a reminder that you can work hard, do everything “right,” and still need to re-aim. Because alignment changes everything. 🎧 Listen, reflect, and ask yourself: What am I aiming at right now? 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

    15 min

  3. FEB 2

    Arizona Reflections, Dance Studio Owner Connections & This-or-That Fun with My Daughter

    Send a text In this special episode of Starbound Unscripted, I’m sharing a moment I didn’t want to rush past. I recently returned from a Dance Studio Owner Conference in Scottsdale, Arizona, where I had the chance to connect with fellow studio owners — including members of my personal dance studio owner squad, Squad 13 and Pod 1, from across the United States and Canada. The conference was a reminder of how powerful community, culture, and shared experiences truly are. While in Arizona, I also stayed with my daughter, Chamberlynn, and we decided to capture a little slice of real life together on the podcast. Chamberlynn grew up as an elite gymnast, also spending time in cheer and dance, and has coached gymnastics, cheer, and dance as an adult. She’s trained under some of the best in the world and brings a unique perspective shaped by years of experience both on and off the floor. This episode is lighter, personal, and unscripted. We chat, laugh, and jump into a fun This-or-That rapid fire segment — touching on life, performance, coaching, and even shows we might star in someday. No deep lessons. No overthinking.  Just connection, conversation, and a moment worth remembering. 🎙️ If you love real conversations about life, performance, and the people behind the scenes — this one’s for you. 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

    52 min

  4. JAN 11

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

    Send 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

  5. 12/26/2025

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

    Send 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

  6. 12/22/2025

    Why Supportive Staff Matters!

    Send 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

  7. 11/15/2025

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

    Send 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

  8. 11/04/2025

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

    Send 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
See All (19)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 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
    19
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Starbound Unscripted
  • Show Website
    Starbound Unscripted