The Real Smile Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

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/

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

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/

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/