Shirley Ballas

Shirley Ballas is a ballroom dance champion who became known as 'The Queen of Latin' and is now the head judge on Strictly Come Dancing. She joins Rachel and Alice to talk about the struggles of leaving home at 15 to become a professional dancer, the impact of the sudden death of her brother, and how the bullying and abuse she feels she has suffered both in and out the industry spurred her on to succeed.Get The Times free for a month: thetimes.co.uk/pastimperfectSamaritans: www.samaritans.orgAlder Hay Hospital: www.alderhey.nhs.ukAction for Children: www.actionforchildren.org.ukThis podcast has been produced in association with Speakers for Schools: www.speakersforschools.orgProducer: Ben Mitchell Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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How do those often facing the hardest beginnings in life become so successful? Alice Thomson and Rachel Sylvester talk to extraordinary people living astonishing lives to learn from those who excel in sport, politics, the arts, business and more, despite real adversity. We hear their secrets and their inspirations, and learn how you too can thrive after life’s setbacks. Thoughtful, revealing and inspirational, follow the podcast now and never miss an episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.