The Real Smile Podcast

In episode 16 of The Real Smile Podcast, Sharon is joined by Sarah Royle for an honest conversation about her journey through dance, performing and teaching, and the experiences that have shaped the person and teacher she is today.

Sarah talks about starting dance at seven, struggling with anxiety and stage fright from a young age, and the audition opportunity she walked away from because she simply didn't have the tools at the time to understand how she was feeling.

She opens up about difficult periods in her life, feeling lost after university and eventually taking a leap and moving to India for a six-month dance contract. Sarah shares some of the incredible experiences that came with performing and travelling, but also the moments that taught her the importance of speaking up when something doesn't feel right — including why “no is a full sentence.”

The conversation also explores life as a dance teacher and school owner, learning to delegate, comparison on social media, supporting young dancers with anxiety and why Sarah believes you never stop developing as a teacher.

Sharon and Sarah also get into some of the bigger conversations within the dance industry, from teaching qualifications and safeguarding to whether dance would benefit from greater transparency and a governing body.

Along the way, Sarah shares why she has become comfortable knowing that she isn't for everyone, why your dance journey isn't finished at 21 and why experience, continued learning and staying in your own lane matter.

A warm, honest and thought-provoking conversation about finding your own path, knowing when to speak up and continuing to learn at every stage of your journey.

Brought to you by Smile Productions

In episode fifteen of The Real Smile Podcast, we're doing things a little differently! This time, Sharon is at home, swapping her usual role as interviewer to answer a few questions from Tony, who's behind the camera. From starting dance lessons at just two and a half years old to opening her own dance school with only 11 children, Sharon looks back on the experiences, people and decisions that shaped her journey and eventually led to the creation of Smile Productions. Sharon shares how Smile grew from local dance school shows into productions in Liverpool, New York, Las Vegas and Salou, opening up about the financial risks, long hours and personal sacrifices that have come with building the business. She also reflects on the challenges of the pandemic, the support of her family and the moments that have made all the hard work worthwhile. We hear some unforgettable behind-the-scenes stories, including the time Sharon had to step in and host a show herself, an expensive accommodation scam in New York and the emotional moment she realised just how much happiness Smile Productions had brought to the families involved. Alongside the business, Sharon talks about her childhood, her love of performing, the teachers who inspired her and why seeing her family happy means so much to her. And, of course, Tony puts Sharon on the spot with a few quick-fire questions, revealing a little more about the person behind Smile Productions! A warm, personal and entertaining conversation filled with memories, laughter and an honest look at the journey behind the smile ❤️ Brought to you by Smile Productions https://www.smile-productions.co.uk/

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

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

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

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

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

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/

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/

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/