The Cooldown with BeBe

BeBe Liu-Brennan
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  • Performing Arts
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🎙️ 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. 15h ago

    What Every Young Dancer Needs to Hear (with Shannon Atkins)

    What if success in dance wasn't about winning every competition, doing the most classes or following the same path as everyone else? This week on The Cooldown with BeBe, we're coming to you from Fiji with a very special guest, Shannon Atkins! Shannon is a dancer, choreographer, educator and former studio owner whose career has taken her from Australia to New York and beyond. She's also preparing to launch a brand-new dance journal designed to help dancers build confidence, reflect on their progress and find more joy in their training. BeBe and Shannon chat about everything from the changing world of dance competitions and the pressure of social media to creativity, education, burnout and learning to trust your own decisions. Shannon shares why she believes there's a place in the dance industry for everyone who truly wants to find it, why rejection isn't always a bad thing and why sometimes the best thing you can do for your dancing is take a day off. It's an honest, encouraging conversation for young dancers, parents and teachers who need a reminder that there's no single way to succeed in dance. In this episode: Shannon's new dance journal: How journaling, goal setting, mindfulness and celebrating small wins can help dancers. Growing up in dance: From ballet and tap classes in Lismore to competitions on the Gold Coast. How competitions have changed: The difference between growing up in the dance industry then and now. Why competition results don't define you: Understanding that dance is subjective and there's so much more to performing than winning. The creative process: How Shannon approaches choreography and why every dancer deserves something that feels uniquely theirs. The importance of downtime: Why rest, recovery and stepping away from social media can actually make you more creative. Balancing school and dance: Shannon shares how studying law and psychology has supported her career. Finding your own path: Why your dream career might change and why that's completely okay. Rejection is redirection: Learning to trust your gut and recognising that missed opportunities can lead somewhere unexpected. New York Fashion Week: Shannon shares one of her most memorable choreography experiences. Advice for younger dancers: Why Shannon would tell her younger self to relax, believe in herself and enjoy the journey. One of our favourite quotes "The path is mine to create." — Shannon Atkins This simple reminder is at the heart of the whole conversation. Your dance journey doesn't have to look like your best friend's. You don't have to win every competition, train every day or have your entire future figured out at 16. You get to decide what success looks like for you. And sometimes that means working hard towards a big goal. Sometimes it means changing direction. And sometimes it means giving yourself permission to enjoy dancing without putting so much pressure on yourself. About Shannon Atkins Shannon Atkins is an Australian dance educator, choreographer and former studio owner with extensive experience working with dancers across Australia and the United States. Her career has included owning and selling a successful dance studio, working internationally, choreographing for New York Fashion Week and mentoring the next generation of performers. With degrees in law and psychology, Shannon brings a unique perspective to dance education, combining technical training with a strong focus on confidence, mindset, wellbeing and personal growth. Her latest passion project is a dance journal designed to help performers reflect on their experiences, set intentions, celebrate progress and create a dance journey that feels right for them. About The Cooldown The Cooldown with BeBe is your backstage pass to the world of dance and performing arts. Join BeBe for honest, fun and inspiring conversations with dancers, choreographers, teachers, industry professionals and young performers about the experiences, challenges and

    What Every Young Dancer Needs to Hear (with Shannon Atkins)

  2. Aug 14

    Saying Yes, Making Connections & Backing Yourself (with Sophia)

    What if you didn't start dancing when you were two? What if your path into the industry looked completely different from everyone else's? This week on The Cooldown, BeBe chats with Sophia K, whose journey has taken her from competitive gymnastics on the Gold Coast to professional dance jobs in India, four years living in London, music videos, TV sets, content creation and plenty of unexpected opportunities along the way. Sophia didn't even start dancing until she was 16, but within a few years she was working professionally overseas. She shares what it was like walking into full-time dance surrounded by people who had trained their whole lives, taking two years away from dance and finding the courage to start again. And that first class back in London? It eventually led to a job in an Ed Sheeran and Russ music video! BeBe and Sophia also get real about auditions, comparison, making connections and why being genuinely happy for other people's success matters in an industry where everyone's journey looks different. In this episode: ✨ How Sophia accidentally discovered gymnastics and trained for 12 years ✨ Starting dance at 16 and jumping into full-time training ✨ Booking her first professional contract at 18 ✨ Working on movies, music videos and commercials in India ✨ Moving to London and returning to dance after two years away ✨ How introducing herself after class led to an Ed Sheeran music video ✨ Why networking and making genuine connections really matters ✨ The audition feedback Sophia wishes more dancers received ✨ Her hilarious experiences working as an extra on London sets ✨ Appearing in a Sidemen video with KSI and suddenly gaining thousands of followers ✨ Moving into content creation, events and red carpets ✨ Combining her gymnastics and dance knowledge as a teacher ✨ Why comparing your career to somebody else's makes no sense ✨ Sophia's dream of travelling the world choreographing gymnastics floor routines One of our favourite takeaways: "Always be yourself and don't dim your light. Keep positive and keep going." Sophia's story is such a great reminder that there isn't one "right" way to build a career in the performing arts. You can start later. You can take time away. You can change direction. And sometimes simply walking up to a teacher after class and saying thank you can lead somewhere you never expected. About Sophia K Sophia K is a former competitive gymnast, dancer, teacher and content creator originally from the Gold Coast. After 12 years of gymnastics, she began dancing at 16 before moving quickly into full-time training and professional work. Her career has taken her from Australia to India and London, with experiences spanning dance contracts, movies, commercials, music videos, extra work and online content. After returning to Australia, Sophia has brought together her gymnastics and dance experience through teaching, with a goal of travelling internationally to choreograph gymnastics floor routines. About The Cooldown The Cooldown with BeBe is your backstage pass to the world of dance and performing arts. BeBe chats with dancers, choreographers, teachers, industry professionals and young performers about the real stories behind their careers—the opportunities, funny moments, challenges and lessons you don't always see on stage or social media. Whether you're dreaming of a professional career, figuring out where you fit in the industry or simply love all things dance, there's a place for you here. 🎧 Follow The Cooldown so you never miss an episode. ⭐ Loved Sophia's story? Share this episode with a dancer who needs the reminder that you don't have to follow the same path as everyone else to get where you want to go. See you next episode! 💜

    Saying Yes, Making Connections & Backing Yourself (with Sophia)

  3. Jul 27

    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)

  4. Jul 16

    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)

  5. Jun 25

    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)

  6. Jun 11

    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)

  7. May 28

    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)

  8. May 14

    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)
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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.

Information

  • Creator
    BeBe Liu-Brennan
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    24
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026
  • Show Website
    The Cooldown with BeBe