Beyond Reality: Conversations with the People Behind Reality TV and Unscripted Entertainment

Hayley Ferguson

Love reality TV? Go behind the scenes with Beyond Reality: the podcast that dives into the world of unscripted television through conversations with the people who make your favourite shows.


Hosted by Australian TV producer Hayley Ferguson, each episode features candid interviews with industry professionals, from producers and directors to editors, crew, and on-screen personalities.


Whether you’re dreaming of a career in television, already working in the industry, or just obsessed with what happens behind the camera, this podcast offers real insights into how TV gets made. Discover the career paths of industry insiders with stories you won’t hear anywhere else - and find out what it really takes to work in TV.

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Episodi

Executive Producer - Laura Cassidy | Farmer Wants A Wife, Fboy Island
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Executive Producer - Laura Cassidy | Farmer Wants A Wife, Fboy Island
In this episode, I’m chatting to executive producer Laura Cassidy. Laura has been at the helm of Farmer Wants A Wife for several years now, steering the creative vision on one of Australia’s most loved formats. She’s also worked on shows including Fboy Island, Selling Houses Australia, The Bachelor and The Circle UK. Laura’s experience covers a diverse range of genres from competition reality tv, studio, to lifestyle, but it’s relationship shows that always seem to draw her in. ⭐️ CREDITS:Host and Producer: Hayley Ferguson Audio Editor: Andrew SooLISTEN MORE:If you enjoyed this episode check out my interview with Creative Director, ITV Studios Australia - Alex Mavroidakis Support the show🔔 FIND US Never miss an episode — hit follow on your favourite podcast app. You can also connect with us here: 📸 Instagram: @beyondrealityau 📘 Facebook: @beyondrealityaus 🐦 X (Twitter): @beyondrealityau 📝 Blog: beyondrealityau.com ☕ SUPPORT THE SHOW Beyond Reality is an independent podcast. If you’d like to support us, you can make a one-off contribution [HERE] (for the price of a coffee!). There’s absolutely no obligation — but every little bit helps keep the show going. Thank you for being part of the Beyond Reality community. ⭐ SPREAD THE WORD Enjoyed this episode?Share it on social media or leave a rating & review in your podcast app — it’s the best way to help others discover Beyond Reality. 🎙 START YOUR OWN PODCAST Thinking about launching your own show? Beyond Reality is hosted on Buzzsprout, our favourite platform for podcast hosting, promotion and tracking. Sign up using this link here and get a $20 credit towards your podcast.
Television Director - Richard 'Butch' Franc | Australian Survivor, Masterchef Australia, Deal or No Deal Island
21-07-2025
Television Director - Richard 'Butch' Franc | Australian Survivor, Masterchef Australia, Deal or No Deal Island
In this episode, I’m joined by TV director Richard Franc - better known as Butch -his credits include Aussie staples like MasterChef and Australian Survivor, as well as international hits such as Amazon Prime Video’s Beast Games and NBC’s Deal or No Deal Island.Over the past 30 years, Butch has carved out an incredible career across a huge range of genres—from live sport and panel shows to game shows and large-scale reality formats.I find out how he went from directing regional newsroom bulletins to becoming one of the most sought-after directing talents in the industry.⭐️ CREDITS:Host and Producer: Hayley Ferguson Audio Editor: Andrew SooLISTEN MORE:If you enjoyed this episode check out my interview with Film & TV Director - Hayley Macfarlane Support the show🔔 FIND US Never miss an episode — hit follow on your favourite podcast app. You can also connect with us here: 📸 Instagram: @beyondrealityau 📘 Facebook: @beyondrealityaus 🐦 X (Twitter): @beyondrealityau 📝 Blog: beyondrealityau.com ☕ SUPPORT THE SHOW Beyond Reality is an independent podcast. If you’d like to support us, you can make a one-off contribution [HERE] (for the price of a coffee!). There’s absolutely no obligation — but every little bit helps keep the show going. Thank you for being part of the Beyond Reality community. ⭐ SPREAD THE WORD Enjoyed this episode?Share it on social media or leave a rating & review in your podcast app — it’s the best way to help others discover Beyond Reality. 🎙 START YOUR OWN PODCAST Thinking about launching your own show? Beyond Reality is hosted on Buzzsprout, our favourite platform for podcast hosting, promotion and tracking. Sign up using this link here and get a $20 credit towards your podcast.
Post Executive Producer - Sophie Johnston | The Real Housewives of London, Made In Bondi & Byron Baes
07-07-2025
Post Executive Producer - Sophie Johnston | The Real Housewives of London, Made In Bondi & Byron Baes
This is Beyond Reality, the podcast that explores the world of television production by chatting to the people behind the tv shows you love. In this episode, I sit down with Post Executive Producer Sophie Johnston. Sophie’s career began in music television before she moved into unscripted TV, working across field and post-production on hit shows like My Kitchen Rules (MKR), House Rules, and The Great Australian Bake Off. Along the way, she built a wealth of experience in structured reality, playing a key role in shaping shows like Netflix' Byron Baes, Made in Bondi (Australia's answer to Made in Chelsea co-produced by the Seven Network and Channel 4), and most recently, The Real Housewives of London. We chat about Sophie’s star-studded early career, her transition from music TV to reality storytelling and why she feels most at home in the edit. ⭐️ CREDITS:Host and Producer: Hayley Ferguson Audio Editor: Andrew Soo🎧 LISTEN MORE: If you liked this episode, check out my chat with Award Winning Editor - Karen Crespo Support the show🔔 FIND US Never miss an episode — hit follow on your favourite podcast app. You can also connect with us here: 📸 Instagram: @beyondrealityau 📘 Facebook: @beyondrealityaus 🐦 X (Twitter): @beyondrealityau 📝 Blog: beyondrealityau.com ☕ SUPPORT THE SHOW Beyond Reality is an independent podcast. If you’d like to support us, you can make a one-off contribution [HERE] (for the price of a coffee!). There’s absolutely no obligation — but every little bit helps keep the show going. Thank you for being part of the Beyond Reality community. ⭐ SPREAD THE WORD Enjoyed this episode?Share it on social media or leave a rating & review in your podcast app — it’s the best way to help others discover Beyond Reality. 🎙 START YOUR OWN PODCAST Thinking about launching your own show? Beyond Reality is hosted on Buzzsprout, our favourite platform for podcast hosting, promotion and tracking. Sign up using this link here and get a $20 credit towards your podcast.
Reality TV Personality - Luke Toki | Australian Survivor, Big Brother VIP, The Traitors
23-06-2025
Reality TV Personality - Luke Toki | Australian Survivor, Big Brother VIP, The Traitors
Beyond Reality is the podcast that explores the world of television production by chatting to the people behind the TV shows you love. In this episode, I’m joined by reality TV fan favourite, Luke Toki. Luke first appeared on on Australian Survivor back in 2017, and quickly made his mark as the loveable larrikin with dynamic gameplay. Luke was the first player to return for a second season, now he’s set to take on the game for a third time in the upcoming season Australia vs The World. Outside of Survivor, he’s cemented his place in the reality TV landscape, winning Big Brother VIP and showcasing his strong instincts on The Traitors. We talk about his unlikely journey from FIFO worker to reality TV icon. ⭐️ CREDITS:Host and Producer: Hayley Ferguson Audio Editor: Andrew Soo🎧 LISTEN MORE: If you liked this episode, check out my chat with TV Personality - George Mladenov Support the show🔔 FIND US Never miss an episode — hit follow on your favourite podcast app. You can also connect with us here: 📸 Instagram: @beyondrealityau 📘 Facebook: @beyondrealityaus 🐦 X (Twitter): @beyondrealityau 📝 Blog: beyondrealityau.com ☕ SUPPORT THE SHOW Beyond Reality is an independent podcast. If you’d like to support us, you can make a one-off contribution [HERE] (for the price of a coffee!). There’s absolutely no obligation — but every little bit helps keep the show going. Thank you for being part of the Beyond Reality community. ⭐ SPREAD THE WORD Enjoyed this episode?Share it on social media or leave a rating & review in your podcast app — it’s the best way to help others discover Beyond Reality. 🎙 START YOUR OWN PODCAST Thinking about launching your own show? Beyond Reality is hosted on Buzzsprout, our favourite platform for podcast hosting, promotion and tracking. Sign up using this link here and get a $20 credit towards your podcast.
Creative Director, ITV Studios Australia - Alex Mavroidakis | Love Island Australia, I'm A Celebrity, Big Brother & More
09-06-2025
Creative Director, ITV Studios Australia - Alex Mavroidakis | Love Island Australia, I'm A Celebrity, Big Brother & More
In this episode of Beyond Reality, Hayley Ferguson is joined by TV executive and ITV’s Creative Director, Alex Mavroidakis. Alex has played a pivotal role in shaping the Australian versions of some of the most popular global reality formats, including Big Brother, Love Island, and I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!Alex unpacks his remarkable career in unscripted television - from navigating the fast-paced world of 24-hour turnaround TV, to the bold creative choices involved in rebooting iconic formats. Plus, the story behind the time he convinced one of Australia’s most famous celebrities to head into the Jungle.⭐️ CREDITS: Host and Producer: Hayley FergusonAudio Editor: Andrew Soo🎧 LISTEN MORE:If you liked this episode, check out my chat with Head of Unscripted TV, ITV Studios Australia - Keely Sonntag.  Support the show🔔 FIND US Never miss an episode — hit follow on your favourite podcast app. You can also connect with us here: 📸 Instagram: @beyondrealityau 📘 Facebook: @beyondrealityaus 🐦 X (Twitter): @beyondrealityau 📝 Blog: beyondrealityau.com ☕ SUPPORT THE SHOW Beyond Reality is an independent podcast. If you’d like to support us, you can make a one-off contribution [HERE] (for the price of a coffee!). There’s absolutely no obligation — but every little bit helps keep the show going. Thank you for being part of the Beyond Reality community. ⭐ SPREAD THE WORD Enjoyed this episode?Share it on social media or leave a rating & review in your podcast app — it’s the best way to help others discover Beyond Reality. 🎙 START YOUR OWN PODCAST Thinking about launching your own show? Beyond Reality is hosted on Buzzsprout, our favourite platform for podcast hosting, promotion and tracking. Sign up using this link here and get a $20 credit towards your podcast.
Podcast Host, Founder of Rob Has A Podcast (RHAP) and Survivor Legend - Rob Cesternino
15-07-2024
Podcast Host, Founder of Rob Has A Podcast (RHAP) and Survivor Legend - Rob Cesternino
In this episode I’m joined by the king of reality TV podcasting and founder behind Rob Has A Podcast - Rob Cesternino. Rob may have first drawn attention for his memorable appearance on Survivor Amazon as a wisecracking self-deprecating 24 year old back in 2003 but in the last 15 years, he’s emerged as one of the most influential voices in reality TV coverage. Rob shares his story of how he turned his passion for television and broadcasting into an award winning podcast network with a highly engaged community of TV fans and how he stays motivated all these years on.CONNECT:You can find Rob through the following links - Rob Has A PodcastX: @robcesterninoInstagram: @robcesternino / @rhapgramsLISTEN MORE:If you enjoyed this episode, you might like to listen to the following episode:TV Personality - George Mladenov, Australian Survivor, The Amazing Race Australia: Celebrity Edition Executive Producer - David Forster, Australian Survivor, Masterchef AustraliaCREDITS:Host and Producer: Hayley FergusonCo-Producer: Brianna La Rance Support the show🔔 FIND US Never miss an episode — hit follow on your favourite podcast app. You can also connect with us here: 📸 Instagram: @beyondrealityau 📘 Facebook: @beyondrealityaus 🐦 X (Twitter): @beyondrealityau 📝 Blog: beyondrealityau.com ☕ SUPPORT THE SHOW Beyond Reality is an independent podcast. If you’d like to support us, you can make a one-off contribution [HERE] (for the price of a coffee!). There’s absolutely no obligation — but every little bit helps keep the show going. Thank you for being part of the Beyond Reality community. ⭐ SPREAD THE WORD Enjoyed this episode?Share it on social media or leave a rating & review in your podcast app — it’s the best way to help others discover Beyond Reality. 🎙 START YOUR OWN PODCAST Thinking about launching your own show? Beyond Reality is hosted on Buzzsprout, our favourite platform for podcast hosting, promotion and tracking. Sign up using this link here and get a $20 credit towards your podcast.
Head of Unscripted Production, BBC Studios Australia - Arianna Gusi | Dancing With The Stars, Top Gear & More
01-07-2024
Head of Unscripted Production, BBC Studios Australia - Arianna Gusi | Dancing With The Stars, Top Gear & More
In this episode I sit down with Arianna Gusi, Head of Unscripted Production at BBC Studios Australia. We unpack her impressive career journey, from her early years learning the ropes and climbing the ranks of the industry in the UK, to leading production on TV’s biggest shows back in Australia including The Voice, The Bachelor, Dancing with the Stars and Top Gear. Ari shares her valuable insights from the last 30 years, plus her take on the misconceptions people often have about the production side TV. LISTEN MORE:If you enjoyed this episode, you might like to listen to the following episode:Head of Unscripted Television, ITV Studios Australia. Keely SonntagCREDITS:Host and Producer: Hayley FergusonCo-Producer: Brianna La Rance Support the show🔔 FIND US Never miss an episode — hit follow on your favourite podcast app. You can also connect with us here: 📸 Instagram: @beyondrealityau 📘 Facebook: @beyondrealityaus 🐦 X (Twitter): @beyondrealityau 📝 Blog: beyondrealityau.com ☕ SUPPORT THE SHOW Beyond Reality is an independent podcast. If you’d like to support us, you can make a one-off contribution [HERE] (for the price of a coffee!). There’s absolutely no obligation — but every little bit helps keep the show going. Thank you for being part of the Beyond Reality community. ⭐ SPREAD THE WORD Enjoyed this episode?Share it on social media or leave a rating & review in your podcast app — it’s the best way to help others discover Beyond Reality. 🎙 START YOUR OWN PODCAST Thinking about launching your own show? Beyond Reality is hosted on Buzzsprout, our favourite platform for podcast hosting, promotion and tracking. Sign up using this link here and get a $20 credit towards your podcast.
Senior Story Producer and Former Nickelodeon Star - Mounya Wise | Masterchef Australia, Gordon Ramsay’s Food Stars
17-06-2024
Senior Story Producer and Former Nickelodeon Star - Mounya Wise | Masterchef Australia, Gordon Ramsay’s Food Stars
In this episode, I chat to Senior Story Producer and former Nickelodeon star Mounya Wise. Mounya spent a decade lighting up UK screens as a kids TV presenter but since moving to Australia, she’s made her mark behind the scenes, producing shows like Masterchef, Dessert Masters, Australian Survivor and The Block. From interviewing Hollywood A-listers and test-driving the world’s best theme parks, to leading and nurturing teams of field producers on reality sets, Mounya’s passion for the TV industry has never waivered. LISTEN MOREIf you enjoyed this episode, you might like to listen to the following episodes:TV Presenter - Liz CantorSeries Producer - Danielle VosCREDITSHost and Producer: Hayley FergusonCo-Producer: Bri La Rance Support the show🔔 FIND US Never miss an episode — hit follow on your favourite podcast app. You can also connect with us here: 📸 Instagram: @beyondrealityau 📘 Facebook: @beyondrealityaus 🐦 X (Twitter): @beyondrealityau 📝 Blog: beyondrealityau.com ☕ SUPPORT THE SHOW Beyond Reality is an independent podcast. If you’d like to support us, you can make a one-off contribution [HERE] (for the price of a coffee!). There’s absolutely no obligation — but every little bit helps keep the show going. Thank you for being part of the Beyond Reality community. ⭐ SPREAD THE WORD Enjoyed this episode?Share it on social media or leave a rating & review in your podcast app — it’s the best way to help others discover Beyond Reality. 🎙 START YOUR OWN PODCAST Thinking about launching your own show? Beyond Reality is hosted on Buzzsprout, our favourite platform for podcast hosting, promotion and tracking. Sign up using this link here and get a $20 credit towards your podcast.
Series Producer - Danielle Vos | Gogglebox Australia, One Born Every Minute, Struggle Street
03-06-2024
Series Producer - Danielle Vos | Gogglebox Australia, One Born Every Minute, Struggle Street
In this episode I’m joined by Series Producer Danielle Vos. Dani spent the early years of her career in production before turning her talents to producing, where she has gone from strength to strength working in the factual and observational documentary space. Dani’s credits include Struggle Street, Air Rescue, One Born Every Minute and more recently Gogglebox Australia. I find out how Dani’s passion for connecting with contributors and delving deeper into storytelling are the keys to what drive her in the TV industry.CONNECT To get in touch with Danielle, you can find her on LinkedIn HereMENTIONED IN THIS EPISODEMedia Mentors LISTEN MOREIf you enjoyed this episode, you might like to listen to the following episode:Series Producer - Natasha Pizzica CREDITSHost and Producer: Hayley FergusonCo-Producer: Bri La Rance Support the show🔔 FIND US Never miss an episode — hit follow on your favourite podcast app. You can also connect with us here: 📸 Instagram: @beyondrealityau 📘 Facebook: @beyondrealityaus 🐦 X (Twitter): @beyondrealityau 📝 Blog: beyondrealityau.com ☕ SUPPORT THE SHOW Beyond Reality is an independent podcast. If you’d like to support us, you can make a one-off contribution [HERE] (for the price of a coffee!). There’s absolutely no obligation — but every little bit helps keep the show going. Thank you for being part of the Beyond Reality community. ⭐ SPREAD THE WORD Enjoyed this episode?Share it on social media or leave a rating & review in your podcast app — it’s the best way to help others discover Beyond Reality. 🎙 START YOUR OWN PODCAST Thinking about launching your own show? Beyond Reality is hosted on Buzzsprout, our favourite platform for podcast hosting, promotion and tracking. Sign up using this link here and get a $20 credit towards your podcast.
Senior Producer and Wellness Supervisor - Emma Ritchie | The Amazing Race, Alone Australia, The Voice
20-05-2024
Senior Producer and Wellness Supervisor - Emma Ritchie | The Amazing Race, Alone Australia, The Voice
In this episode, I chat to Emma Ritchie, a Senior Producer and Wellness Supervisor, who has worked on shows including The Amazing Race, Alone and The Voice. Emma reveals how she's been able to combine her passion for health and wellness with her career in TV as well as the strategies she uses to maintain work-life balance in such fast-paced industry. Plus, the story of one serendipitous gumtree purchase that changed everything. LISTEN MOREIf you enjoyed this chat, you might like to listen to the following episodes:Head of Unscripted, ITV Studios Australia - Keely SonntagCasting Director - Kirsty de VallanceCREDITSHost and Producer: Hayley FergusonCo-Producer: Bri La Rance  Support the show🔔 FIND US Never miss an episode — hit follow on your favourite podcast app. You can also connect with us here: 📸 Instagram: @beyondrealityau 📘 Facebook: @beyondrealityaus 🐦 X (Twitter): @beyondrealityau 📝 Blog: beyondrealityau.com ☕ SUPPORT THE SHOW Beyond Reality is an independent podcast. If you’d like to support us, you can make a one-off contribution [HERE] (for the price of a coffee!). There’s absolutely no obligation — but every little bit helps keep the show going. Thank you for being part of the Beyond Reality community. ⭐ SPREAD THE WORD Enjoyed this episode?Share it on social media or leave a rating & review in your podcast app — it’s the best way to help others discover Beyond Reality. 🎙 START YOUR OWN PODCAST Thinking about launching your own show? Beyond Reality is hosted on Buzzsprout, our favourite platform for podcast hosting, promotion and tracking. Sign up using this link here and get a $20 credit towards your podcast.
Head of Unscripted Television, ITV Studios Australia - Keely Sonntag | The Voice, Alone Australia, Australian Survivor
06-05-2024
Head of Unscripted Television, ITV Studios Australia - Keely Sonntag | The Voice, Alone Australia, Australian Survivor
In this episode, I sit down with TV executive and ITV Studios Australia's Head of Unscripted, Keely Sonntag. Keely is a formidable force of the television industry, over the course of her career she’s been at the helm of countless iconic formats including Big Brother, Australian Survivor Shark Tank and Australia’s Next Top Model. Keely shares valuable insights from an impressive career in TV and discusses why fostering a positive culture is central to her leadership style. CONNECT:ITV Studios AustraliaLISTEN MORE:If you enjoyed this chat, you might like to listen to my recent interview with Head of Global Formats, Eureka Productions - Wes Dening.  Long before Wes was making his mark developing and selling original formats around the world, he was getting his first taste of television as a contestant on Big Brother. CREDITS: Host and Producer: Hayley Ferguson Support the show🔔 FIND US Never miss an episode — hit follow on your favourite podcast app. You can also connect with us here: 📸 Instagram: @beyondrealityau 📘 Facebook: @beyondrealityaus 🐦 X (Twitter): @beyondrealityau 📝 Blog: beyondrealityau.com ☕ SUPPORT THE SHOW Beyond Reality is an independent podcast. If you’d like to support us, you can make a one-off contribution [HERE] (for the price of a coffee!). There’s absolutely no obligation — but every little bit helps keep the show going. Thank you for being part of the Beyond Reality community. ⭐ SPREAD THE WORD Enjoyed this episode?Share it on social media or leave a rating & review in your podcast app — it’s the best way to help others discover Beyond Reality. 🎙 START YOUR OWN PODCAST Thinking about launching your own show? Beyond Reality is hosted on Buzzsprout, our favourite platform for podcast hosting, promotion and tracking. Sign up using this link here and get a $20 credit towards your podcast.
Supervising Producer & Co-Convenor Women In Media, NSW - Dominique Spanos | Stars On Mars
22-04-2024
Supervising Producer & Co-Convenor Women In Media, NSW - Dominique Spanos | Stars On Mars
In this episode I chat to Supervising Producer Dominique Spanos, whose impressive list of credits includes Stars on Mars, Travel Guides and My Kitchen Rules.Dom shares her story of starting out in the industry, building her career across field and post production, as well as shining a light on her important work with not-for profit organisation Women In Media.CONNECT:To get in touch with Dominique about her MC work, head to www.dominiquespanos.com or find her on Instagram @dominiquespanosmc.To find out more and get involved with Women In Media, head to https://www.womeninmedia.com.au/LISTEN MORE:If you enjoyed this episode,  you may like to listen to my interview with Film and TV Director - Hayley MacFarlane, who has carved out a successful career in what was traditionally a male-dominated area of the industry. CREDITS:Host and Producer: Hayley FergusonCo-Producer: Bri La Rance Support the show🔔 FIND US Never miss an episode — hit follow on your favourite podcast app. You can also connect with us here: 📸 Instagram: @beyondrealityau 📘 Facebook: @beyondrealityaus 🐦 X (Twitter): @beyondrealityau 📝 Blog: beyondrealityau.com ☕ SUPPORT THE SHOW Beyond Reality is an independent podcast. If you’d like to support us, you can make a one-off contribution [HERE] (for the price of a coffee!). There’s absolutely no obligation — but every little bit helps keep the show going. Thank you for being part of the Beyond Reality community. ⭐ SPREAD THE WORD Enjoyed this episode?Share it on social media or leave a rating & review in your podcast app — it’s the best way to help others discover Beyond Reality. 🎙 START YOUR OWN PODCAST Thinking about launching your own show? Beyond Reality is hosted on Buzzsprout, our favourite platform for podcast hosting, promotion and tracking. Sign up using this link here and get a $20 credit towards your podcast.
Casting Director - Kirsty de Vallance | Masterchef Australia, SAS, The Biggest Loser
08-04-2024
Casting Director - Kirsty de Vallance | Masterchef Australia, SAS, The Biggest Loser
In this episode, I sit down with Casting Director and Co-owner of A Cast Of Thousands, Kirsty De Vallance. With close to three decades in the industry, Kirsty is one of the most experienced casting professionals in Australia and when it comes to finding TV talent for reality, factual and entertainment formats, you name it - she’s cast it.Kirsty reveals her top tips for getting cast on TV,  the high profile names she’s discovered over the years and, the extraordinary lengths she goes to in search of next big reality stars.CONNECTTo connect with Kirsty, you can follow A Cast of Thousands on Instagram @acastofthousands LISTEN MOREIf you enjoyed this episode, you may like to listen to my chat with TV Presenter - Liz Cantor. Kirsty had a hand in casting Liz Cantor on The Mole before she made her mark as a TV presenter. CREDITS: Host and Producer: Hayley Ferguson Co-Producer: Bri La Rance Support the show🔔 FIND US Never miss an episode — hit follow on your favourite podcast app. You can also connect with us here: 📸 Instagram: @beyondrealityau 📘 Facebook: @beyondrealityaus 🐦 X (Twitter): @beyondrealityau 📝 Blog: beyondrealityau.com ☕ SUPPORT THE SHOW Beyond Reality is an independent podcast. If you’d like to support us, you can make a one-off contribution [HERE] (for the price of a coffee!). There’s absolutely no obligation — but every little bit helps keep the show going. Thank you for being part of the Beyond Reality community. ⭐ SPREAD THE WORD Enjoyed this episode?Share it on social media or leave a rating & review in your podcast app — it’s the best way to help others discover Beyond Reality. 🎙 START YOUR OWN PODCAST Thinking about launching your own show? Beyond Reality is hosted on Buzzsprout, our favourite platform for podcast hosting, promotion and tracking. Sign up using this link here and get a $20 credit towards your podcast.
Film and TV Director - Hayley MacFarlane | Love Island Australia, Big Brother & Netflix’ Dive Club
25-03-2024
Film and TV Director - Hayley MacFarlane | Love Island Australia, Big Brother & Netflix’ Dive Club
In this episode, I’m joined by Film and TV Director, Hayley MacFarlane.  Hayley has spent the last 10 years directing some of the UK and Australia’s biggest reality hits such as Love Island, Big Brother and I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here. I find out how Hayley’s fierce determination to make it as a director has propelled her success and how her work in reality TV has positively influenced her work in other genres. To explore more of Hayley's directing work, head to https://www.hayleymacfarlane.com/If you enjoyed this conversation, you might also be interested in my chat with another female powerhouse in this industry, Series Producer - Natasha Pizzica who has worked on shows such as Gogglebox, Playschool, Teletubbies and Limitless with Chris Hemsworth.CREDITS:Host and Producer: Hayley FergusonCo-Producer: Bri La Rance Support the show🔔 FIND US Never miss an episode — hit follow on your favourite podcast app. You can also connect with us here: 📸 Instagram: @beyondrealityau 📘 Facebook: @beyondrealityaus 🐦 X (Twitter): @beyondrealityau 📝 Blog: beyondrealityau.com ☕ SUPPORT THE SHOW Beyond Reality is an independent podcast. If you’d like to support us, you can make a one-off contribution [HERE] (for the price of a coffee!). There’s absolutely no obligation — but every little bit helps keep the show going. Thank you for being part of the Beyond Reality community. ⭐ SPREAD THE WORD Enjoyed this episode?Share it on social media or leave a rating & review in your podcast app — it’s the best way to help others discover Beyond Reality. 🎙 START YOUR OWN PODCAST Thinking about launching your own show? Beyond Reality is hosted on Buzzsprout, our favourite platform for podcast hosting, promotion and tracking. Sign up using this link here and get a $20 credit towards your podcast.
Head of Global Formats, Eureka Productions - Wes Dening | The Floor, The Mole, Stars on Mars & More
11-03-2024
Head of Global Formats, Eureka Productions - Wes Dening | The Floor, The Mole, Stars on Mars & More
In this episode, I sit down with TV executive Wes Dening, a powerhouse of the television industry who has made his mark in developing, selling and producing original content in Australia, the US and beyond. In his current role as Head of Global Formats for Eureka Productions, Wes oversees the making of hit shows such as Australian Idol (Seven Network), The Mole (Netflix), The Floor (Fox) and Stars On Mars (Fox). We chat about his first taste of television as a contestant on Big Brother back in 2004, how he learnt the business of TV in order to sell his first original formal at just 27 years old and what he believes it takes to make it in such a dynamic industry. CONNECT:Follow Wes Dening is on Instagram here.Eureka Productions can be found here.LISTEN MORE:If you enjoyed this chat, you might like to listen to a recent episode recorded with Liz Cantor. Liz is an established TV presenter these days but her first taste of television was on The Mole back in 2005 and spoiler alert - she won! CREDITS:Host and Producer: Hayley Ferguson Support the show🔔 FIND US Never miss an episode — hit follow on your favourite podcast app. You can also connect with us here: 📸 Instagram: @beyondrealityau 📘 Facebook: @beyondrealityaus 🐦 X (Twitter): @beyondrealityau 📝 Blog: beyondrealityau.com ☕ SUPPORT THE SHOW Beyond Reality is an independent podcast. If you’d like to support us, you can make a one-off contribution [HERE] (for the price of a coffee!). There’s absolutely no obligation — but every little bit helps keep the show going. Thank you for being part of the Beyond Reality community. ⭐ SPREAD THE WORD Enjoyed this episode?Share it on social media or leave a rating & review in your podcast app — it’s the best way to help others discover Beyond Reality. 🎙 START YOUR OWN PODCAST Thinking about launching your own show? Beyond Reality is hosted on Buzzsprout, our favourite platform for podcast hosting, promotion and tracking. Sign up using this link here and get a $20 credit towards your podcast.
TV Personality - George Mladenov | Australian Survivor, The Amazing Race Australia: Celebrity Edition
26-02-2024
TV Personality - George Mladenov | Australian Survivor, The Amazing Race Australia: Celebrity Edition
Just like a great reality TV twist, this episode is a little bit different. I chat with TV personality George Mladenov or as he’s more commonly known by Survivor fans, King George.I find out how George went from a bold and sometimes brash political operative to a two-time Australian Survivor player who cemented themselves as one of the most strategic players the game has ever seen.LISTEN MORE:If you enjoyed this chat, you might like to listen to a recent episode recorded with David Forster. Dave is an executive producer for Australian Survivor with a surprising start to his career in reality TV.CREDITS:Host and Producer: Hayley FergusonCo-Producer: Bri La Rance Support the show🔔 FIND US Never miss an episode — hit follow on your favourite podcast app. You can also connect with us here: 📸 Instagram: @beyondrealityau 📘 Facebook: @beyondrealityaus 🐦 X (Twitter): @beyondrealityau 📝 Blog: beyondrealityau.com ☕ SUPPORT THE SHOW Beyond Reality is an independent podcast. If you’d like to support us, you can make a one-off contribution [HERE] (for the price of a coffee!). There’s absolutely no obligation — but every little bit helps keep the show going. Thank you for being part of the Beyond Reality community. ⭐ SPREAD THE WORD Enjoyed this episode?Share it on social media or leave a rating & review in your podcast app — it’s the best way to help others discover Beyond Reality. 🎙 START YOUR OWN PODCAST Thinking about launching your own show? Beyond Reality is hosted on Buzzsprout, our favourite platform for podcast hosting, promotion and tracking. Sign up using this link here and get a $20 credit towards your podcast.
Supervising Post Producer and Writer - Bri La Rance | Australian Survivor, The Traitors & Neighbours
12-02-2024
Supervising Post Producer and Writer - Bri La Rance | Australian Survivor, The Traitors & Neighbours
In this episode, I’m joined by Supervising Post Producer and Writer, Bri La Rance. Bri’s drive and determination to learn new skills led her to explore a diverse range of film and TV roles before more recently forging a path in post production, but as I find out, it’s her passion for storytelling that underpins everything she does.Over the course of Bri's impressive career, she has worked in the writers room on Australian drama shows including Neighbours and Bite Club. More recently, her work in post production has included shows such as Australian Survivor, The Traitors, Married at First Sight and Big Brother. LISTEN MORE:If you enjoyed this episode and want to hear more about the world of post production, you can listen to my chat with award-winning editor, Karen Crespo here.CREDITS:Host and Producer: Hayley Ferguson Support the show🔔 FIND US Never miss an episode — hit follow on your favourite podcast app. You can also connect with us here: 📸 Instagram: @beyondrealityau 📘 Facebook: @beyondrealityaus 🐦 X (Twitter): @beyondrealityau 📝 Blog: beyondrealityau.com ☕ SUPPORT THE SHOW Beyond Reality is an independent podcast. If you’d like to support us, you can make a one-off contribution [HERE] (for the price of a coffee!). There’s absolutely no obligation — but every little bit helps keep the show going. Thank you for being part of the Beyond Reality community. ⭐ SPREAD THE WORD Enjoyed this episode?Share it on social media or leave a rating & review in your podcast app — it’s the best way to help others discover Beyond Reality. 🎙 START YOUR OWN PODCAST Thinking about launching your own show? Beyond Reality is hosted on Buzzsprout, our favourite platform for podcast hosting, promotion and tracking. Sign up using this link here and get a $20 credit towards your podcast.
TV Presenter & Two-Time Reality TV Show Winner - Liz Cantor | The Mole & Livingstone Botswana
17-12-2023
TV Presenter & Two-Time Reality TV Show Winner - Liz Cantor | The Mole & Livingstone Botswana
In this episode, I’m joined by TV presenter and two-time reality TV show winner (The Mole and Livingstone Botswana), Liz Cantor as she shares her unique insights from an enduring career in front of the camera. Whether she’s delivering the winning lotto numbers, fronting stories on the best travel and adventure spots or dominating any reality competition she enters, Liz’s passion and enthusiasm for her work always shines through. Support the show🔔 FIND US Never miss an episode — hit follow on your favourite podcast app. You can also connect with us here: 📸 Instagram: @beyondrealityau 📘 Facebook: @beyondrealityaus 🐦 X (Twitter): @beyondrealityau 📝 Blog: beyondrealityau.com ☕ SUPPORT THE SHOW Beyond Reality is an independent podcast. If you’d like to support us, you can make a one-off contribution [HERE] (for the price of a coffee!). There’s absolutely no obligation — but every little bit helps keep the show going. Thank you for being part of the Beyond Reality community. ⭐ SPREAD THE WORD Enjoyed this episode?Share it on social media or leave a rating & review in your podcast app — it’s the best way to help others discover Beyond Reality. 🎙 START YOUR OWN PODCAST Thinking about launching your own show? Beyond Reality is hosted on Buzzsprout, our favourite platform for podcast hosting, promotion and tracking. Sign up using this link here and get a $20 credit towards your podcast.
Series Producer - Natasha Pizzica | Gogglebox, Playschool, Teletubbies
09-07-2023
Series Producer - Natasha Pizzica | Gogglebox, Playschool, Teletubbies
In this episode, I catch up with Natasha Pizzica, a series producer who’s worked across a range of genres from primetime entertainment shows like Big Brother and Gogglebox to iconic kids television such as Playschool and Teletubbies, and even though-provoking docuseries like Limitless with Chris Hemsworth. I find out how Tash’s theatre background set her up for a career of creativity, how she navigates the busy world of tv production as a working mum and why her son is her biggest inspiration. You can access Natasha's series she developed for the ABC here: https://iview.abc.net.au/show/moodies  Support the show🔔 FIND US Never miss an episode — hit follow on your favourite podcast app. You can also connect with us here: 📸 Instagram: @beyondrealityau 📘 Facebook: @beyondrealityaus 🐦 X (Twitter): @beyondrealityau 📝 Blog: beyondrealityau.com ☕ SUPPORT THE SHOW Beyond Reality is an independent podcast. If you’d like to support us, you can make a one-off contribution [HERE] (for the price of a coffee!). There’s absolutely no obligation — but every little bit helps keep the show going. Thank you for being part of the Beyond Reality community. ⭐ SPREAD THE WORD Enjoyed this episode?Share it on social media or leave a rating & review in your podcast app — it’s the best way to help others discover Beyond Reality. 🎙 START YOUR OWN PODCAST Thinking about launching your own show? Beyond Reality is hosted on Buzzsprout, our favourite platform for podcast hosting, promotion and tracking. Sign up using this link here and get a $20 credit towards your podcast.