The Real Smile Podcast | Podcast on RSS.com

The Real Smile Podcast

The Real Smile Podcast

by Sharon Collins

Performing Arts Business

Season 1

Emma Fletcher: How Danza Went From 11 to 480 Dancers | Episode 14

In episode 14 of The Real Smile Podcast, Sharon is joined by Emma Fletcher from Danza to talk about her journey in dance, from starting as a young child and performing from an early age, to travelling the world as a dancer and eventually building Danza into the school it is today. Emma shares how her own experiences shaped her approach to teaching, including the importance of giving young dancers opportunities to perform, creating a strong sense of community and making sure dancers always feel that the door is open. They talk about Danza's growth from just 11 dancers to almost 480 students across two bases, Emma's ability to retain teenage dancers, and the team she has built around her — many of whom started their own dance journey at Danza. Emma also opens up about the loss of her son Billy, the incredible support she received from her dance community, and how difficult it was returning to the dance school and telling the children what had happened. The conversation also covers confidence, being comfortable in your own skin, age-appropriate choreography, balancing work and family life, and Emma's advice for anyone thinking about starting their own dance school — including working hard, setting boundaries, doing your research and believing in yourself. A warm, honest and personal conversation about dance, family, confidence and the journey behind Danza. Brought to you by Smile Productions

Kim Rogers: Changing the Culture of Dance | Episode 13

In episode 13 of The Real Smile Podcast, Sharon is joined by Kim Rogers, founder of The Butterfly Mind, for a wide-ranging and honest conversation about dance, wellbeing and the culture surrounding young dancers and teachers. Kim talks about her journey from professional performer to dance teacher and, more recently, moving into work focused on mindset, wellbeing and supporting teachers and dance schools. She explains how The Butterfly Mind has evolved and why she now feels ready to use her voice to challenge some of the things that have become accepted as the norm within the dance industry. A big part of the conversation focuses on language — from phrases like “the show must go on” and “no pain, no gain”, to the way teachers, parents, examiners and adjudicators communicate with young dancers. Kim explains why simply asking, “What do you need from me right now?” can sometimes make a huge difference. They also discuss pressure on young dancers, comparisons, exam and competition results, confidence, constructive feedback, safeguarding and the importance of creating a healthier culture where children are supported as people first — not just as dancers. A thought-provoking conversation about the things we sometimes accept without questioning, and why Kim believes it is time to start talking about them and doing better. Brought to you by Smile Productions

Ava Davidson: Nothing Can Stop Me Dancing | Episode 12

In episode twelve of The Real Smile Podcast, Sharon is joined by Ava Davidson, a young dancer whose story is one of incredible strength, determination and resilience. Ava shares her journey from being diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma at just eight years old, through treatment, the amputation of her leg and learning to walk again — all while refusing to let her circumstances stop her from dancing. She talks openly about returning to dance on crutches, her experiences with further tumours and treatment, and the role dance, drama and singing have played throughout her journey. The conversation also explores inclusion within the dance industry. Ava shares how her experiences have helped push for changes in dance examinations and greater understanding around dancers with disabilities, opening doors for others who come after her. Looking towards the future, Ava talks about her ambitions to perform, act and work in musical theatre, while also sharing a powerful message for anyone facing their own difficult journey: keep pushing and remember that what you're going through doesn't define you. This is an incredibly honest and inspiring conversation about courage, determination, inclusion and the power of continuing to do what you love. Brought to you by Smile Productions Smile Productions

Leanne Campbell: Behind the Mic and Beyond | Episode #011

In episode eleven of The Real Smile Podcast, Leanne Campbell joins Sharon for an honest and personal conversation about her journey, from her early days in dance to her experiences in radio and the different chapters that have shaped her along the way. Leanne reflects on her time at Juice FM, including the risks they took, the things they were doing differently and the fines that came with pushing boundaries. She also shares stories from her career and the experiences that have stayed with her over the years. Alongside her professional journey, Leanne talks openly about the people who have supported her, including the important role her mum and dad have played in her life and how much she values their advice. It's a warm, honest and entertaining conversation filled with memories, stories, laughter and a look behind the scenes at the experiences that have helped shape Leanne into who she is today. Brought to you by Smile Productions

Kelly Tobin: The Journey from Student to Dance School Owner | Episode #010

In episode ten of The Real Smile Podcast, Kelly Tobin — owner of Kelly Shirley School of Dance — joins Sharon for a conversation that goes right back to where Kelly’s own dance journey began. Kelly reflects on being a student herself, her early experiences in dance and the journey that eventually led her to running her own school. We talk about the growth of Kelly Shirley School of Dance, the hard work behind its success, competitive dance and the opportunities she has created for her students. We also explore the bigger impact of dance beyond performing. From confidence, discipline and teamwork to learning how to deal with pressure and nerves, Kelly and Sharon discuss the skills and values that young people can take with them long after they leave the dance studio. It's a warm and honest conversation about the journey from student to teacher, the importance of giving young dancers opportunities, and why the experiences we have through dance can stay with us for life. Brought to you by Smile Productions

Kirsty Nunnen: From Dance to Pilates | Episode #009

In episode nine of The Real Smile Podcast, Kirsty Nunnen — owner of Pimbletts Pilates and former student of Sharon’s — shares her journey from growing up with dance to discovering a new passion through Pilates and Barre. Kirsty talks about her family, her experiences growing up around dance, and how the skills and knowledge she developed through dance have influenced what she does today. She opens up about taking the leap into teaching Pilates, initially having doubts about whether it was for her, and the moment she realised just how much she loved it. We also talk about family, hard work, loyalty and commitment, as well as Kirsty’s famous younger brother, Paddy “The Baddy” Pimblett, the professional MMA fighter, and what it’s like watching someone so close to you compete at the highest level. It's a warm, honest and personal conversation about family, finding a new direction, learning new skills and discovering that your experience in dance can shape what comes next. Brought to you by Smile Productions https://www.smile-productions.co.uk/

Claire Wharmby: Building Confidence Through Street Dance | Episode #008

In episode eight of The Real Smile Podcast, Claire Wharmby — founder of Empire Street Dance Company — shares her journey from discovering her passion for dance to building a successful street dance school and inspiring the next generation of dancers. Claire reflects on the challenges and opportunities that have shaped her career, and what it takes to create a school where young people feel supported, inspired and confident. We talk about the importance of giving every child a place to belong, balancing family life with running a dance school, and why passion and perseverance have been at the heart of everything she's achieved. Throughout the conversation, Claire opens up about the lessons she's learned along the way, the responsibility of mentoring the next generation, and the moments that have made it all worthwhile. It's an honest discussion about leadership, resilience, community and the lasting impact dance can have on a young person's life. This episode is full of warmth, inspiration and practical wisdom, reminding us that dance is about so much more than learning routines—it's about building confidence, creating opportunities and changing lives. Brought to you by Smile Productions https://www.smile-productions.co.uk/

David Heath: Finding Purpose Through Dance | Episode #007

In episode seven of The Real Smile Podcast, David Heath shares his remarkable journey through the world of dance, from discovering his passion at a young age to building a career dedicated to inspiring others. David reflects on the teachers and opportunities that shaped his path, the lessons he learned throughout his performing career, and the experiences that led him into teaching. We explore the importance of creating positive environments for young people, the responsibility that comes with being a role model, and why dance is about so much more than technique. Alongside his professional journey, David opens up about overcoming self-doubt, embracing new opportunities, and the value of perseverance, kindness and staying true to yourself. It's a conversation filled with humour, honesty and powerful life lessons that extend far beyond the dance studio. This episode is inspiring, thought-provoking and a reminder that the greatest impact we can have isn't always measured by trophies or titles, but by the difference we make in other people's lives. Brought to you by Smile Productions https://www.smile-productions.co.uk/

Sophie Niker: Building Confidence Through Dance | Episode #006

In episode six of The Real Smile Podcast, Sophie Niker — owner of Sophie Louise School of Dance — shares the story behind her journey in dance, from training as a young performer to building a thriving dance school centred around confidence, kindness and community. Sophie reflects on the lessons she's learned throughout her career, the challenges of running a successful school, and the importance of creating a positive environment where every child feels valued. We talk about the responsibility that comes with teaching the next generation, the friendships formed through dance, and why it's about so much more than competitions and performances. Alongside her professional journey, Sophie opens up about balancing family life with running a business, staying true to her values, and the passion that continues to drive everything she does. It's a conversation about resilience, growth, and the lasting impact a great dance teacher can have on a young person's life. This episode is warm, honest and inspiring—a reminder that dance isn't just about creating great performers; it's about building confident, happy young people who carry those lessons with them for life. Brought to you by Smile Productions https://www.smile-productions.co.uk/

Victoria Charlton: Life, Loss & Never Giving Up | Episode #005

In episode five of The Real Smile Podcast, Victoria Charlton — owner of Complete Works Performance School — shares an incredibly honest and emotional account of the journey that has shaped both her life and her career. From performing professionally and unexpectedly finding her way into teaching, to building Complete Works Performance School with her business partner, Victoria reflects on the highs and lows of working in the dance industry and the values that continue to guide her today. Victoria also opens up about living with polycystic kidney disease, the life-changing journey that led to her liver transplant, and how those experiences changed her outlook on life. We talk about balancing family life, running a business, facing unimaginable challenges, and finding the strength to keep moving forward, even during life's most difficult moments. This episode is raw, emotional and ultimately inspiring—a reminder to embrace every opportunity, appreciate the people around you, and never give up, no matter what life throws your way. Brought to you by Smile Productions https://www.smile-productions.co.uk/ Complete Works Performance School https://www.instagram.com/completeworksps/

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