THE JUSTIN AND INEKE PODCAST — A podcast for dance parents
We explore the dance world weekly—answering the questions you're afraid to ask and helping you make decisions with confidence. Competitions, auditions, mindset, technique, and the stuff nobody warns you about. Studio owners for 20+ years and dance parents ourselves, we bring honest conversations for parents raising the next generation of artists. This podcast is about shaping confident, resilient young dancers. Starting with you.
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.
We discuss:
• Common causes of dance injuries and how to prevent them.
•Navigating the mental health impact and "injury self-doubt."
• The teacher's dilemma: Pushing for excellence while staying safe.
• Practical steps for parents during the recovery process.<...
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?
What are the top techniques to stop stage fright in its tracks? And most importantly, what are the judges actually looking for when your child hits the floor? Whether you are a new dance parent or a seasoned pro, this guide covers: Confidence-building techniques for kids Practical preparation for competition day Turning stage fright into performance energy The "Lo...
Helping Your Child Navigate Body Changes and Puberty in Dance
Is your child struggling with their changing body while in the dance studio?
In this episode of THE JUSTIN & INEKE PODCAST, tackle the "taboo" topics that every dance parent needs to know. From the myth of the "perfect" dancer’s body to the physical and emotional shifts of puberty, we draw from years of studio teaching to help you support your young dancer.
In this episode, we discuss:* The history of dance body aesthetics and why it’s changing.* How to handle puberty and growth spurts without losing motivation.* The real reasons dancers drop out and...
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? In this episode, Justin and Ineke dive deep into the world of perfectionism in the dance studio.
Drawing from years of observation and teaching, we break down the different types of perfectionism and why "striving for excellence" can sometimes turn into a roadblock for growth.The difference between healthy ambition and toxic perfectionism.
Why young dancers struggle with the "fear of being seen."
Practical solutions for parents...
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?
In this episode of the Justin & Ineke Podcast, we talk about parenting strategies specifically for the dance world. We discuss how to build self-confidence and, most importantly, how to help your child do their own things by taking responsibility for their own progress.
Whether you’re navigating competitive dance or supporting a budding artist, these tips on parenting and mindset will help your child on and off the stage.
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. We move beyond the studio to discuss planning your child's dance future with a focus on long-term growth and professional success. What we cover in this episode:
The essential steps on how to start a dance career and navigate the industry.Raising kids with a growth mindset vs a fixed mindset to handle the pressures of competitive dance...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.
We speak about the challenges that aren't often talked about: from navigating the "perfectionism" trap and managing the physical changes of puberty to supporting a young teenage boys emotional well-being.
Whether your son is just starting or is pursuing a professional path, this conversation provides real life insights into the dancer’s mindset, overcoming personal struggles, and breaking down the stereotypes surrounding male dancers and identity.
Key Topics Discussed:
...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. We speak about the serious and often misunderstood topic of Relative Energy Deficiency in Dance (RED-S), which is low energy availability in dancers. This condition can severely impact performance, energy, and long-term health.
In this episode, you will understand:
• 5 critical warning signs parents and dancers need to look for.
• Actionable tips for parents to plan and prepare simple meals that e...
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.
What You'll Learn in this Dance Podcast Episode: The shocking inner struggles of a dancer and how...
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.
We explore the question: How to become a better dancer—and the answer might surprise you. It’s less about raw talent and more about a cultivated trait: the power of delayed gratification.
We explain how to encourage the discipline and pati...
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.
This episode is for every mother, father, and caregiver working with the challenges of raising a boy in the world of ballet. If you’re seeing your son struggle with confidence, face tough questions, or encounter gender discrimination in dance, you are not...