Behind the Stars

Star Academy

Behind the Stars is your all-access pass to the world of performing arts. Whether you're a student, parent, aspiring performer or industry pro, this podcast takes you behind the scenes to explore every facet of the journey — from training and full-time study to life on stage. Join us as we dive into the real stories, expert insights, and essential topics that matter most: wellbeing, mental health, nutrition, injury prevention, performance psychology, and resilience. From studio to spotlight, Behind the Stars shines a light on what it truly takes to thrive in the performing arts world — mind, body, and soul.

Episodes

  1. Episode 7 Dreams, Discipline & Dance: Sofia’s journey to Brent Street

    01/11/2025

    Episode 7 Dreams, Discipline & Dance: Sofia’s journey to Brent Street

    In this inspiring episode of Behind the Stars, we chat with former Star Academy student Sofia Maur, who is now training full-time at Brent Street — one of Australia’s most prestigious performing arts schools. Sofia shares how her years at Star Academy helped prepare her not only as a dancer but as an independent young adult — from mastering choreography and technique to managing her time, uniform, and responsibilities with maturity and discipline. Now living in Sydney and balancing full-time training, part-time work, and life away from home, Sofia gives us a glimpse into a typical day at Brent Street, the incredible teachers and choreographers she learns from, and the strong sense of camaraderie among her peers. Sofia also shares her valuable advice for aspiring dancers — to “sit into the uncomfortable.” Don’t just stick to what you’re good at; try new styles, challenge yourself, and embrace the moments that push you out of your comfort zone. She reminds us that at Brent Street, success isn’t about having the most perfect technique or doing the most pirouettes — it’s about artistry, passion, and presence. Sofia’s journey is a beautiful reminder that dedication, humility, and a love for learning will take you exactly where you’re meant to go.

    27 min

  2. 18/10/2025

    Episode 6. Behind the Feed: The Real Life of a Social Media Creator with Hayley Berlingeri

    In this episode of Behind the Stars, we sit down with influencer and content creator Hayley Berlingeri to explore the world behind the perfectly curated feed. Hayley opens up about what it really takes to go from a brand brief to producing authentic content, how she juggles motherhood with her career as a social media influencer, and the highs and lows of living life online. She also shares valuable insights on keeping kids safe on social media and how digital platforms can be powerful tools for both businesses and individuals when used with purpose and care.

    35 min
  3. Episode 5 Creating a Second Chance: Clay Glen & Zoe Burns on Gymnastics Academy

    05/10/2025

    Episode 5 Creating a Second Chance: Clay Glen & Zoe Burns on Gymnastics Academy

    In Episode 5 of Behind the Stars, we sit down with director and photographer Clay Glen, the creative mind behind the Netflix hit Gymnastics Academy: A Second Chance, and rising star Zoe Burns, who shines on screen as Scarlett. Clay shares his journey from photography to screenwriting and directing, and how his daughters’ love of gymnastics inspired a global franchise. Zoe opens up about auditioning, overcoming nerves, and her experiences on set. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about creativity, perseverance, and life behind the camera — and in front of it.

    28 min
  4. Episode 4 - Dancers’ Bodies: Care, Strength & Balance with Physio Jenni Guest

    21/09/2025

    Episode 4 - Dancers’ Bodies: Care, Strength & Balance with Physio Jenni Guest

    Episode 4 of Behind the Stars welcomes special guest Jenni Guest, a former dancer whose love for ballet inspired her career as a leading physiotherapist for dancers. Through her Smart Dance program, Jenni is passionate about not only treating injuries but also preventing them, helping dancers train safely and sustainably. In this episode, Jenni shares her unique perspective on the challenges dancers face today—from common injuries and dangerous flexibility trends to the importance of mindset in recovery. She dives into her process for assessing dancers’ readiness for pointe work, highlighting why this crucial step matters before slipping on pointe shoes. With her positive outlook and deep understanding of both the art and the science of dance, Jenni offers invaluable advice for young dancers, parents, and teachers who want to support healthy, happy, and long-lasting dance journeys. This is an absolute must listen for aspiring dancers and parents!

    34 min
  5. Episode 3 - Dance, Dreams and Disney Magic with Ambrielle Payne

    07/09/2025

    Episode 3 - Dance, Dreams and Disney Magic with Ambrielle Payne

    In this episode, we sit down with Adelaide-born and raised performer Ambrielle Payne, who is currently touring Australia in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. From a young age, Ambrielle trained extensively in all styles of dance, developing the discipline and work ethic that would eventually lead her to the professional stage. Our Star Academy community were lucky enough to have Ambrielle as part of our teaching faculty, and we’re so proud to now support her incredible journey in musical theatre. In this conversation, she opens up about the highs and lows of auditioning, navigating rejection, and what it really takes to stand out in a competitive industry. Ambrielle also shares invaluable advice for aspiring performers—how to build resilience, the reality of life as a full-time musical theatre artist, and the determination required to make dreams a reality. Whether you’re a young dancer, a theatre lover, or simply curious about what goes on behind the curtain, this episode is packed with insight and inspiration.

    22 min
  6. Episode 2 - Fuel your Body and Boost your mood with Malissa Fedele

    24/08/2025

    Episode 2 - Fuel your Body and Boost your mood with Malissa Fedele

    In this episode of Behind the Stars, we’re joined by Malissa Fedele — Clinical Nutritionist, performer, and advocate for holistic health — widely known as The Mood Boosting Nutritionist. With her signature passion for helping people thrive, Malissa takes us through the fascinating world where food, performance, and mental wellbeing collide. Together, we explore how the right nutrition can fuel the body for long rehearsals, intense training schedules, and peak stage performance, while also supporting a strong mindset and emotional resilience. Malissa breaks down practical strategies for performers of all ages to eat in a way that enhances energy, focus, and recovery — without falling into restrictive or harmful habits. We also dive into deeper conversations around body image, the pressures of social media, and the influence of modern diet culture on young people. Malissa sheds light on the dangers of “quick fix” trends and so-called miracle weight-loss products, offering instead empowering advice on how to help the next generation build balanced, confident, and positive relationships with food. Whether you’re a dancer, a parent, a teacher, or anyone curious about the powerful link between what we eat and how we feel, this episode is packed with knowledge and inspiration to fuel both body and mind. To celebrate this launch, Malissa is offering a special 40% off all Good Day Wellness services for the next fortnight. Here is the link if you want to check it out: https://www.gooddaywellness.com.au/collections/services  If you are a parent who may be interested or know any kids/teens who need some extra support in this area, Malissa would love to see you. To redeem the discount, simply use the code OFFICE at checkout.   Find more from Malissa below... https://www.malissafedele.com/ https://www.gooddaywellness.com.au/ instagram: @malissafedele   @gooddaywellness

    47 min
  7. Episode 1. From Coffee to Curtain Calls: Star is born over a casual coffee catch up...

    07/08/2025

    Episode 1. From Coffee to Curtain Calls: Star is born over a casual coffee catch up...

    Welcome to Behind the Stars — the podcast that shines a light on all things performing arts, from the spotlight on stage to the stories behind the scenes. In our very first episode, we sit down with Jenna Maiolo, Owner and Director of Star Academy, and Kristy Burns, Principal, to uncover the inspiring journey of how it all began. From a simple idea shared over coffee to building a thriving performing arts academy, Jenna and Kristy open up about the highs, the hurdles, and everything in between — including the challenges of juggling business and motherhood, navigating the uncertainty of COVID, and learning how to run a business as young adults.  They share what keeps them inspired through it all — the students, the growth, and the joy of watching young performers shine. It's this passion and purpose that makes the long hours and hard work truly worth it.  It’s real, it’s raw, and it’s full of heart — the perfect start to our journey Behind the Stars. *The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in the Behind the Stars podcast are solely those of the Behind the Stars team and guests, and do not reflect the views of any affiliated organizations or individuals. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical, legal, psychological, or other expert advice. Always seek the guidance of qualified professionals with any questions you may have regarding your health, legal situation, or mental well-being.

    49 min
  • 7 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Behind the Stars is your all-access pass to the world of performing arts. Whether you're a student, parent, aspiring performer or industry pro, this podcast takes you behind the scenes to explore every facet of the journey — from training and full-time study to life on stage. Join us as we dive into the real stories, expert insights, and essential topics that matter most: wellbeing, mental health, nutrition, injury prevention, performance psychology, and resilience. From studio to spotlight, Behind the Stars shines a light on what it truly takes to thrive in the performing arts world — mind, body, and soul.

Information

  • Creator
    Star Academy
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    7
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Behind the Stars
  • Show Website
    Behind the Stars