Real Talk for Real Dance Parents
Practical, honest insights for parents of pre-professional dancers — shared weekly from our experience to yours.
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How to Help Your Dancer with Anxiety or Fear: The 3-Sentence Script for Parents
A podcast for parents who are raising teenage dancers. In this episode of THE JUSTIN & INEKE PODCAST, we break down the shift from "I am scared" to "I am a scared person"—and why our "be positive" instincts might be making it worse. We share a practical, research-backed 3-sentence script you can use in the car tonight to validate your child's fear without letting it stop them.
"My child is in the back row" | What Dance Teachers Wish Parents Knew
In this episode of THE JUSTIN & INEKE PODCAST, we explore one of the most sensitive topics in the studio: the dreaded back row. Why isn't your dancer front and center? Before you call the teacher, watch this. We pull back the curtain on what choreographers actually look for, from reliability and attitude to why the "second cast" or back row is often the backbone of a winning performance.
My Child Left Home for Dance: The Practical Guide for Parents
Who is this video for: "Boarding school for dancers" "Early professional dance training" "Homesickness in young athletes" "Moving out at 11 for school" "Dance mom anxiety" "Vocational dance school preparation" "Helping teens deal with homesickness "Is your child leaving home at a young age to pursue their dream of professional dance? It’s a moment filled with pride, but also a lot of hidden anxiety and homesickness—for both of you.
The Truth About Dance Competition Culture (What Parents Need to Hear)
Are dance competitions building your child up—or secretly burning them out? In this episode, we speak on the multi-billion-dollar youth dance industry to reveal the truth about dance competition culture.
Why Your Teenage Dancer is Overwhelmed (And How to Actually Help)
Is your teenage dancer struggling with the pressure of school, family, and the studio? In this episode of THE JUSTIN & INEKE PODCAST, we speak about the psychology of 12-15-year-old dancers and why they often feel overwhelmed. This episode on teenage burnout and confidence is exactly what parents are looking for. We provide practical ways to support your child through the unique pressures of the dance world.
Raising a Boy Dancer: How to Handle Bullying in Dance & Teach Your Teenage Son about Puberty
Is your son facing bullying for dancing? In this episode of THE JUSTIN & INEKE PODCAST, we reflect on the emotional journey of raising a boy dancer. We break down the 7 stages of bullying and share how parents can build resilience in their children. We also tackle the "elephant in the room": why only 32% of male dancers feel supported by their fathers. We discuss masculinity, navigating puberty (the 12-year-old drop-off), and how to reconnect your child with their "intrinsic motivation" when things get tough.
When Your Child Gets Hurt: The Dance Parent’s Guide to Injury & Recovery
Raising a dancer comes with unique challenges, but nothing is harder than seeing them sidelined by an injury. In this episode of THE JUSTIN & INEKE PODCAST, we speak about the reality of dance injuries—from the physical recovery of our son to the mental toll, self-doubt, and self-image impact on our dance students.
Helping Your Child Navigate Body Changes and Puberty in Dance
Is your child struggling with their changing body while in the dance studio?
How to Build a Confident Dancer What Judges REALLY Want to See Parent Guide
Raising a dancer is a marathon, not a sprint! In this episode of THE JUSTIN & INEKE PODCAST, we talk about the world of competitive dance parenting. We’re answering the big questions: How do you build a confident dancer?
How to Help Your Young Dancer Overcome Perfectionism & Fear of Failure
This podcast is specifically for dance parents who are navigating the fine line between "high standards" and "toxic perfectionism."Is your child their own toughest critic?
How to Get Your Child to Take 100% Responsibility for Their Progress
Are you a dance parent wondering how to raise successful kids without the constant burnout?
Dance Career Roadmap: How to Plan a Professional Future for Your Child (Without the Burnout)
Are you wondering how to plan a successful future for your dancer? In this episode of The Justin & Ineke Podcast, we talk to you about the specific steps parents can take to help their children start a professional dance career.
Parenting a Male Ballet Dancer | What Every Parent Needs to Know About Puberty, Mindset & Stereotype
In this episode of THE JUSTIN & INEKE PODCAST, we sit down with Stephan Vodenitcharov to discuss the unique journey of raising male ballet dancers.
How To Dance with Energy | 5 Warning Signs & Recovery Steps for Dance Parents
Welcome to The Justin & Ineke Podcast, to empower dance parents! This crucial episode is for you: parents of passionate dancers who are looking for actionable steps to support their child's health and performance.
Struggling Dancer Mindset: Overcoming 'I'm Not Good Enough' | Rise Above Self-Doubt Fast
Are you a dancer struggling with self-doubt? Welcome to THE JUSTIN & INEKE PODCAST! This episode is for every dancer who has ever whispered, "I am not a good enough dancer." We break down the dancer mindset to explore why you might be feeling like an imposter or a not-good-enough dancer, and or why you may feel like you're not improving as a dancer despite endless practice. We discuss 'Imposter Syndrome' and its impact on young dancers.
How To Become A Better Dancer & The Power Of Delayed Gratification For Your Kids
Are you a dance parent looking for the best way to support your child's dance journey? In this episode of The Justin & Ineke Podcast, we discuss the mindset required for success. The topics shared here are relevant not just in the studio, but also in life.
Raising a Male Ballet Dancer: Deal with Bullying, Build Confidence & Break Gender Stereotypes
In this inaugural episode of THE JUSTIN & INEKE PODCAST, we discuss the unique journey of raising a male ballet dancer. Being a parent of a male dancer comes with a set of challenges that are rarely discussed—from facing gender stereotypes in the dance world to dealing with bullying and building confidence in your son.
The Episodes Everyone Loves
Start here if you're new — these are the conversations that hit home for most parents.
Struggling Dancer Mindset: Overcoming 'I'm Not Good Enough' | Rise Above Self-Doubt Fast
Are you a dancer struggling with self-doubt? Welcome to THE JUSTIN & INEKE PODCAST! This episode is for every dancer who has ever whispered, "I am not a good enough dancer." We break down the dancer mindset to explore why you might be feeling like an imposter or a not-good-enough dancer, and or why you may feel like you're not improving as a dancer despite endless practice. We discuss 'Imposter Syndrome' and its impact on young dancers.
How To Become A Better Dancer & The Power Of Delayed Gratification For Your Kids
Are you a dance parent looking for the best way to support your child's dance journey? In this episode of The Justin & Ineke Podcast, we discuss the mindset required for success. The topics shared here are relevant not just in the studio, but also in life.
Raising a Male Ballet Dancer: Deal with Bullying, Build Confidence & Break Gender Stereotypes
In this inaugural episode of THE JUSTIN & INEKE PODCAST, we discuss the unique journey of raising a male ballet dancer. Being a parent of a male dancer comes with a set of challenges that are rarely discussed—from facing gender stereotypes in the dance world to dealing with bullying and building confidence in your son.