The Cooldown with BeBe

BeBe Liu-Brennan

🎙️ Pro chats. Real stories. The insider view. Welcome to The Cooldown Podcast with BeBe Liu-Brennan - the show where dancers get real. BeBe sits down with performers, choreographers, studio owners, and industry insiders to uncover the untold journeys, raw challenges, and behind-the-scenes stories that shape the dance world. Whether you're a professional dancer, a student chasing the dream, or someone who just loves the artistry of movement, this podcast gives you the insider view you won't find anywhere else. Expect honest conversations, career insights, and the kind of advice only dancers can share with dancers. Created by a dancer, for dancers - and brought to you in collaboration with Future Stars Media.

  1. 27 July

    Growing Up in a Dance Studio: BeBe's Story So Far (with Rebecca Liu-Brennan)

    Welcome to the very first episode of The Cooldown with BeBe! 💜 What better way to kick things off than by sitting down with someone who's been there from day one... BeBe's mum, Rebecca Liu-Brennan! From tiny ballet shoes and Wiggles concerts to winning international dance titles, this episode is packed with funny stories, behind-the-scenes moments and plenty of laughs. They chat about what it was really like growing up in a dance studio, the lessons dance has taught them, and the unforgettable adventures that took them all the way to Europe. Whether you're a dancer, a dance parent, or just love hearing real stories from the performing arts world, this episode is the perfect introduction to BeBe and the journey that's shaped her so far. In this episode: ✨ Growing up in a dance studio from just three weeks old ✨ BeBe's very first concert at only 18 months old ✨ The solo that almost never happened... before winning Nationals ✨ Why hard work always beats natural talent ✨ Funny mother-daughter moments (including how much they argue! 😂) ✨ Behind the scenes of competing at World Dancer of the Year in Italy ✨ Dancing through London, Positano and unforgettable Europe adventures ✨ What's next... Broadway Dance Center, New York and more exciting opportunities! One of our favourite quotes: "Work hard, and success will follow. If you know you've given something 100%, you'll always be proud of yourself." About The Cooldown The Cooldown with BeBe is your backstage pass to the world of dance, performing arts and growing up in the industry. Every episode features honest conversations with dancers, choreographers, teachers and industry professionals, sharing the stories, advice and experiences that don't always get seen on stage. Whether you're chasing big dance dreams or simply love the performing arts, you're in the right place. 🎧 Subscribe so you never miss an episode. ⭐ If you enjoyed today's chat, we'd love it if you left a review and shared the podcast with your dance friends! Connect with BeBe Follow along for behind-the-scenes content, podcast updates and plenty of dance adventures. See you next episode! 💜

    Growing Up in a Dance Studio: BeBe's Story So Far (with Rebecca Liu-Brennan)
  2. 16 July

    The Secrets Behind Great Technique (with Zouzu)

    This week on The Cooldown, BeBe sits down with dancer, choreographer, technique specialist and educator Zouzu for one of the most insightful conversations we've had on the podcast. From her journey through full-time dance training to studying exercise science and Pilates, Zouzu shares how understanding the body has completely transformed the way she teaches—and why strong foundations will always outlast flashy tricks. Together, they unpack the realities of pursuing a professional dance career, choosing the right full-time course, navigating social media, building resilience and why technique still matters more than ever. Whether you're a young dancer, a dance teacher or a parent supporting a performer, this episode is full of practical advice you'll carry with you long after the conversation ends. In this episode: ✨ How Zouzu's dance journey began and what led her to full-time training ✨ Why she chose a small full-time course—and why she'd make that choice again ✨ What every young dancer should consider before committing to full-time study ✨ How studying exercise science and Pilates changed the way she teaches technique ✨ Why understanding your body is just as important as learning choreography ✨ The biggest changes she's seen in dance training over the past decade ✨ The truth about social media, comparison and staying in your own lane ✨ Why technique is still the foundation of every successful dancer ✨ How to become a better teacher by understanding movement, not just steps ✨ Her biggest advice for dancers chasing a long-term career One of our favourite quotes: "Stay in your own lane. Focus on your journey, build strong foundations and don't let someone else's path distract you from your own." About Zouzu Zouzu is a professional dancer, choreographer, technique coach and educator with a passion for developing strong, healthy and versatile performers. After completing full-time dance training and studying exercise science and Pilates, she now combines technical expertise with an in-depth understanding of biomechanics to help dancers improve safely, efficiently and sustainably. Known for her honest coaching style and commitment to proper technique, Zouzu is passionate about preparing the next generation of dancers for long, successful careers in the performing arts. About The Cooldown The Cooldown with BeBe is your backstage pass to the world of dance, performing arts and growing up in the industry. Through honest conversations with dancers, choreographers, teachers and industry professionals, every episode explores the lessons, challenges and experiences that shape life both on and off the stage. Whether you're preparing for your next audition, dreaming of full-time training, teaching the next generation or simply love hearing real conversations from the dance community, The Cooldown is here to educate, inspire and remind you that lasting success is built on strong foundations. 🎧 Follow The Cooldown so you never miss an episode. ⭐ If this episode gave you a fresh perspective on training, technique or your own dance journey, leave a review and share it with a dancer, teacher or parent who needs to hear Zouzu's advice. See you next episode! 💜

    The Secrets Behind Great Technique (with Zouzu)
  3. 25 June

    From Cheerleader to Dance Around the World Winner (with Zoe)

    This week on The Cooldown, BeBe is joined by fellow dancer and close friend Zoe for an honest conversation about growing up in the performing arts, chasing big goals and learning to trust your own journey. From beginning as a cheerleader before discovering dance, to finding her place at Dream Dance Company, winning Dance Around the World at ADF, balancing academy life and teaching the next generation, Zoe shares the moments that have shaped her into the performer she is today. Together, BeBe and Zoe reflect on competitions, COVID, academy training, camp memories, Dream Dance Company and the importance of staying focused on your own path instead of comparing yourself to everyone else. If you're a young dancer working towards your own goals, this episode is packed with relatable stories, practical advice and plenty of laughs along the way. In this episode: ✨ How cheerleading led Zoe into the world of dance ✨ Growing from a casual dancer into a committed performer ✨ Finding motivation after COVID and deciding to "lock in" ✨ Behind the scenes of Dream Dance Company ✨ Winning Dance Around the World at ADF and what that moment meant ✨ Life inside a full-time performing arts academy ✨ Teaching cheer and why she loves helping younger athletes grow ✨ The differences between dance competitions and cheer competitions ✨ Learning to ignore comparisons and focus on your own goals ✨ Why consistency beats worrying about what everyone else is doing One of our favourite quotes: "Stay in your own lane. Don't compare yourself to everyone else—focus on your own goals and keep doing the work." About Zoe Zoe is a passionate dancer, cheerleader, teacher and performing arts student who has quickly made a name for herself through her dedication, positive mindset and willingness to embrace every opportunity. From Dream Dance Company and ADF to coaching young athletes and balancing academy training, Zoe is building an exciting future while inspiring others to trust their own journey. About The Cooldown The Cooldown with BeBe is your backstage pass to the world of dance, performing arts and growing up in the industry. Through honest conversations with dancers, choreographers, teachers, industry professionals and fellow young performers, every episode explores the stories, lessons and friendships that make this community so special. Whether you're training for your next competition, dreaming of a professional career or simply love hearing authentic conversations from the dance world, The Cooldown is here to inspire you every step of the way. 🎧 Follow The Cooldown so you never miss an episode. ⭐ If you enjoyed today's conversation, leave a review and share it with a friend who needs the reminder that everyone's journey looks different—and that's exactly how it's supposed to be. See you next episode! 💜

    From Cheerleader to Dance Around the World Winner (with Zoe)
  4. 11 June

    The Truth About Competitions, Social Media & Dance (with Jordan)

    This week on The Cooldown, BeBe is joined by one of her closest friends, Jordan, for a relaxed conversation about growing up in the dance world, finding confidence and learning to enjoy the journey. From starting out in gymnastics and circus before discovering dance, to navigating competitions, auditions, conventions and professional opportunities, Jordan shares the highs, the challenges and the lessons he's learnt along the way. Together, they chat about everything from COVID dance classes and first competitions to Dream Dance Company, social media, performing jobs and what it's really like growing up as a teenage dancer. Most importantly, Jordan reminds us that while it's important to work hard, dance should always be something you enjoy. In this episode: ✨ How Jordan accidentally found his way into dance ✨ From gymnastics and circus to becoming an all-round performer ✨ His first competitions and what they taught him ✨ Funny memories from dancing through COVID ✨ Auditioning for Pippin and handling rejection ✨ Dream Dance Company and why it's helped him grow ✨ Working with Kieron Kulik and booking professional jobs ✨ The reality of social media for young dancers ✨ The teachers and choreographers who inspire him most ✨ Why having fun is just as important as working hard One of our favourite quotes: "It's just dance. Work hard, but don't take everything so seriously. Have fun." About Jordan Jordan is a passionate young performer who has grown through every stage of dance life—from circus classes and competitions to conventions, musical theatre auditions and professional performance opportunities. Known for his versatility, athleticism and positive attitude, Jordan continues to develop his skills while embracing every opportunity to learn, perform and grow. About The Cooldown The Cooldown with BeBe is your backstage pass to the world of dance, performing arts and growing up in the industry. Through honest conversations with dancers, choreographers, teachers, industry professionals and fellow young performers, every episode celebrates the lessons, friendships and experiences that shape life both on and off the stage. Whether you're training for your next competition, dreaming of a career in the performing arts or simply love hearing real stories from the dance community, The Cooldown is here to inspire, encourage and remind you that everyone's journey looks different. 🎧 Follow The Cooldown so you never miss an episode. ⭐ If you enjoyed today's conversation, leave a review and share it with a friend from your dance studio—they'll definitely relate to Jordan's stories! See you next episode! 💜

    The Truth About Competitions, Social Media & Dance (with Jordan)
  5. 28 May

    Life Lately: Dance, Travel & Bestie Catch-Ups (with Milli)

    The Bestie Chats are back! After a little break, BeBe and Millie are finally sitting down to catch everyone up on everything that's happened so far this year—and let's just say... there's been a lot! From Showcase weekends, Dream, DTE and ADT to Japan adventures, birthday celebrations, dance conventions, teaching, troop rehearsals and plenty of hilarious behind-the-scenes moments, this episode is one big catch-up between two best friends who always have a story to tell. Expect plenty of laughs, a few embarrassing moments, food recommendations, travel stories and a whole lot of dance chat. If you've missed hanging out with BeBe and Millie, this episode feels just like catching up with your best friends after way too long. In this episode: ✨ Looking back on Showcase and the Italy team's adventures ✨ The Today's Show performance (and BeBe's unforgettable turns!) ✨ Japan, snowboarding and travel highlights ✨ Dream, DTE and ADT convention recaps ✨ Their favourite classes and choreographers this year ✨ Teaching, troop rehearsals and this year's incredible productions ✨ Behind-the-scenes stories from studio life ✨ Birthday celebrations, Sydney adventures and incredible food ✨ Funny friendship moments you'll definitely relate to ✨ What they're both looking forward to for the rest of the year One of our favourite moments: "I asked Millie to save me one bite... and she ate the last two." 😂 About BeBe & Millie BeBe and Millie have grown up together through dance, competitions, conventions and studio life, creating a friendship that's full of laughter, support and unforgettable memories. Whether they're training, teaching, travelling or simply catching up over food, their conversations are always honest, relatable and guaranteed to make you smile. About The Cooldown The Cooldown with BeBe is your backstage pass to the world of dance, performing arts and growing up in the industry. From inspiring interviews with industry professionals to relaxed Bestie Chats like this one, every episode celebrates the people, experiences and friendships that make dance so special. Whether you're a dancer, dance teacher, parent or simply love hearing behind-the-scenes stories from the performing arts world, The Cooldown is the perfect place to unwind after class. 🎧 Follow The Cooldown so you never miss an episode. ⭐ If this episode made you laugh, leave a review and share it with your dance bestie—you'll probably recognise a few of these moments in your own friendship too! See you next episode! 💜

    Life Lately: Dance, Travel & Bestie Catch-Ups (with Milli)
  6. 14 May

    The Truth About Creativity, Dance & Finding Your Style (with Stephen Tannos)

    This week on The Cooldown, BeBe sits down with one of Australia's most respected dancers, choreographers and creative minds, Stephen Tannos, for a conversation packed with stories, laughter and career-changing advice. From discovering dance almost by accident after dressing up as Elvis at a childhood party, to starring in Cats the Musical, competing on So You Think You Can Dance, choreographing for some of the biggest names in entertainment and becoming one of Australia's most sought-after creatives, Stephen shares the moments that shaped his remarkable career. But more importantly, he opens up about something every young dancer needs to hear: success doesn't come from blending in. It comes from embracing who you are. Whether you're a dancer, teacher, choreographer or parent supporting a young performer, this episode is filled with practical advice about auditions, creativity, confidence and building a career that lasts. In this episode: ✨ How an Elvis costume unexpectedly sparked Stephen's dance journey ✨ Landing Oliver! and Cats the Musical early in his career ✨ Behind-the-scenes stories from "Cat School" ✨ His unforgettable journey on So You Think You Can Dance ✨ Why trusting your instincts can change everything ✨ The transition from performer to choreographer ✨ Why strong foundations matter more than chasing trends ✨ The difference between inspiration and copying ✨ Finding your own creative voice in a world full of social media ✨ Why authenticity will always outlast imitation One of our favourite quotes: "Find what it is about you... and run after that. Full speed ahead." About Stephen Tannos Stephen Tannos is an Australian dancer, choreographer, creative director and educator whose career spans musical theatre, television, commercial performance and large-scale choreography. From starring in productions including Cats the Musical and appearing on So You Think You Can Dance Australia to choreographing major campaigns, live events and artists, Stephen has become one of the industry's most respected creative voices. Known for his distinctive movement style, innovative storytelling and passion for mentoring the next generation, he continues to inspire dancers to embrace their individuality and create work that is authentically their own. About The Cooldown The Cooldown with BeBe is your backstage pass to the world of dance, performing arts and growing up in the industry. Through honest conversations with dancers, choreographers, teachers and industry professionals, each episode explores the stories behind the spotlight, the lessons learnt along the way and the people shaping the future of dance. Whether you're chasing your first audition, dreaming of a professional career or simply love hearing inspiring stories from the performing arts world, The Cooldown is here to remind you that every journey is different—and that's exactly what makes it worth celebrating. 🎧 Follow The Cooldown so you never miss an episode. ⭐ If you enjoyed today's conversation, leave a review and share it with a dancer, teacher or parent who needs this reminder: your uniqueness is your greatest strength. See you next episode! 💜

    The Truth About Creativity, Dance & Finding Your Style (with Stephen Tannos)
  7. 13 May

    Peeking Inside the Audition Room (with Kieron Kulik)

    This week on The Cooldown, BeBe is joined by one of Australia's most respected talent agents, Kieron Kulik, for an honest conversation that every young performer—and every dance parent—needs to hear. From his own journey as a professional performer to now representing the next generation of artists through Kulik Management, Kieron shares the lessons he's learnt from both sides of the audition room. Together, they unpack what casting directors are really looking for, why authenticity will always stand out over perfection, how to navigate rejection and the biggest mistakes performers make when chasing a career in the industry. Whether your dream is to perform on stage, book commercials, work professionally or simply become a more confident performer, this episode is full of practical advice you'll carry with you long after the music stops. In this episode: ✨ How Kieron fell in love with dance from a young age ✨ The highs and challenges of starting a professional career as a teenager ✨ Why making mistakes helped shape his work ethic ✨ What talent agents actually do behind the scenes ✨ What casting directors are really looking for in auditions ✨ Why authenticity is your greatest advantage ✨ How to deal with rejection without losing confidence ✨ The importance of training beyond dance—including singing and acting ✨ Advice for parents supporting young performers ✨ Why building relationships matters more than chasing the biggest jobs One of our favourite quotes: "Get to know you. Let all of your experiences shape you, but never stop asking questions about who you are and who you're becoming." About Kieron Kulik Kieron Kulik is a performer, educator and talent agent with decades of experience across the Australian entertainment industry. After performing professionally in musicals, live entertainment and touring productions, he transitioned into artist management, where he now mentors and represents emerging performers through Kulik Management. Passionate about helping young artists build sustainable careers, Kieron is known for his honest advice, industry knowledge and genuine commitment to developing confident, authentic performers. About The Cooldown The Cooldown with BeBe is your backstage pass to the world of dance, performing arts and growing up in the industry. Through honest conversations with dancers, choreographers, teachers and industry professionals, each episode explores the stories behind the spotlight, the lessons learnt along the way and the people helping shape the next generation of performers. Whether you're a dancer, performer, parent or teacher, The Cooldown is here to inspire, educate and remind you that every journey in the performing arts is unique. 🎧 Follow The Cooldown so you never miss an episode. ⭐ If this episode helped you see the industry from a new perspective, leave a review and share it with a young performer, dance parent or teacher who could benefit from Kieron's advice. See you next episode! 💜

    Peeking Inside the Audition Room (with Kieron Kulik)
  8. 12 May

    From Rural Dance Studio to Big Industry Dreams (with Amelia)

    This week on The Cooldown, BeBe sits down with dancer, choreographer and future Dynamite full-time student Amelia to chat about carving out a career in the dance industry—both on stage and behind the scenes. Growing up in a regional town with limited dance opportunities, Amelia never imagined choreography would become such a huge part of her journey. Fast forward a few years and she's creating award-winning work, presenting choreography through ADF's Next Gen Choreographer program and preparing for the next chapter of her career at Dynamite. The girls dive into the realities of life after high school, building confidence as a choreographer, networking within the industry and why mindset is just as important as technique. Whether your dream is to perform, choreograph or both, this episode is packed with honest advice and plenty of inspiration. In this episode: ✨ Growing up in a regional town and discovering dance ✨ The teachers who shaped Amelia's journey ✨ How her passion for choreography began ✨ Behind the scenes of ADF's Next Gen Choreographer program ✨ Creating large-scale choreography and finding her creative voice ✨ How networking has opened new opportunities ✨ Preparing for Dynamite full-time in 2027 ✨ Balancing performance goals with choreography ambitions ✨ Finding inspiration through music and industry classes ✨ Why training your mindset is just as important as training your body One of our favourite quotes: "Train your mind as much as you train your body, because mindset is everything." About Amelia Amelia is a 20-year-old dancer, choreographer and emerging creative who is passionate about both performing and creating work for others. After growing up in regional Australia, she has built a reputation through programs like ADF's Next Gen Choreographer and is preparing to begin full-time training at Dynamite. Alongside her own dance career, Amelia teaches, creates choreography for studios and continues to grow her presence within the Australian dance industry. About The Cooldown The Cooldown with BeBe is your backstage pass to the world of dance, performing arts and growing up in the industry. Through honest conversations with dancers, choreographers, teachers and rising performers, each episode explores the stories behind the stage, the lessons learnt along the way and the friendships that make the journey so special. Whether you're a dancer, dance teacher, aspiring choreographer or simply love hearing inspiring stories from the performing arts world, there's something here for you. 🎧 Follow The Cooldown so you never miss an episode. ⭐ If you enjoyed today's conversation, leave a review and share it with someone who's dreaming of a future in the dance industry. See you next episode! 💜

    From Rural Dance Studio to Big Industry Dreams (with Amelia)

About

🎙️ Pro chats. Real stories. The insider view. Welcome to The Cooldown Podcast with BeBe Liu-Brennan - the show where dancers get real. BeBe sits down with performers, choreographers, studio owners, and industry insiders to uncover the untold journeys, raw challenges, and behind-the-scenes stories that shape the dance world. Whether you're a professional dancer, a student chasing the dream, or someone who just loves the artistry of movement, this podcast gives you the insider view you won't find anywhere else. Expect honest conversations, career insights, and the kind of advice only dancers can share with dancers. Created by a dancer, for dancers - and brought to you in collaboration with Future Stars Media.