Afleveringen
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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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In episode four of The Real Smile Podcast, Natalie Burton — owner of Natalie Dignam Theatre School — shares her journey from a young girl with a passion for dance to becoming a successful tripple threat performer, teacher and theatre school owner.
Natalie reflects on the sacrifices her family made to support her dreams, the dedication it took to build a career in the industry, and the experiences that shaped her both on and off the stage. From touring professionally to leading her own theatre school, she shares the lessons she's learned along the way.
Alongside her career, Natalie opens up about balancing family life with running a business, the importance of having a strong support network, and why creating a positive environment for young performers is at the heart of everything she does. We also discuss the value of hard work, resilience, kindness and giving every child the confidence to achieve their potential.
This episode is full of honesty, laughter and inspiring reflections on building a life in the performing arts industry while staying true to your values.
Brought to you by Smile Productions
https://www.smile-productions.co.uk/
Natalie Dignam Theatre School - https://www.instagram.com/nataliedignamtheatreschool/
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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In episode three of The Real Smile Podcast, Anthony Jones shares his journey from a young boy with a passion for dance to becoming a respected performer and teacher.
Anthony reflects on growing up knowing he was gay from an early age, the bullying he faced, and how those experiences shaped the person he has become.
Alongside his personal story, we talk about the importance of great teachers, the life lessons dance gives young people, his professional career, and the joy he now finds in inspiring the next generation of performers.
This episode is honest, moving and uplifting—highlighting the power of resilience, acceptance, and staying true to yourself.
Brought to you by Smile Productions https://www.smile-productions.co.uk/
Anthony Jones - https://www.instagram.com/antjonesdance/
Finesse School of dance - https://www.instagram.com/finesseschoolofdance/
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In episode two of The Real Smile Podcast, Clare Graham shares a deeply personal and inspiring journey that goes far beyond the dance studio.
When Clare’s daughter, Odette, was born with cerebral palsy and Down syndrome, everything changed. In this honest conversation, Claire opens up about family life, resilience, and how her perspective on dance — and life — evolved in ways she never expected.
We explore how this journey led to the creation of her Dance Without Limits classes, designed to support children with additional needs and ensure every child has the opportunity to experience the joy of dance.
Alongside this, we reflect on our own experiences growing up in dance, the morals and values that have shaped us, and the challenges many face along the way — from imposter syndrome to learning new skills and stepping outside of your comfort zone.
This episode is raw, honest, and uplifting — continuing the conversation around what it really means to create inclusive, supportive spaces in the dance world.
Brought to you by Smile Productions https://www.smile-productions.co.uk/
Extreme Dance Company | https://www.instagram.com/extremedancecom/
Extreme Dance Events | https://www.instagram.com/extremedanceevents/
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In episode one of The Real Smile Podcast, Wendy Ehlen — studio owner and principal of Shine Theatre School — opens up about her journey so far. From building a person-centred school to navigating family life, competitions, body image and even her recent hip replacement, Wendy shares an honest and inspiring conversation covering the realities behind the smile.
Brought to you by Smile Productions https://www.smile-productions.co.uk/
Shine Theatre School | Wendy Ehlen https://www.instagram.com/shinetheatreschool/
Dance Wellbeing Coach | Kim Rogers https://www.instagram.com/the.butterflymind/
The Dance Scientist | Maria Haralambis https://www.instagram.com/the.dancescientist/
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Welcome to The Real Smile Podcast, brought to you by Smile Productions
This is where the real stories behind the smiles come to life. From the stage to everyday moments, we dive into the highs, the challenges, and everything in between. Featuring dancers, performers, and creatives, we celebrate passion, growth, and the journey that shapes every performer.
Real talk. Real experiences. Real Smile
