Special guest, Jeff Webb, the founder of UCA and Varsity Spirit, shares his journey from being a high school and college cheerleader to managing NCA and ultimately building his own cheerleading empire. He offers behind-the-scenes stories of founding UCA, overcoming challenges, and witnessing the sport’s evolution over the years. The conversation touches on the international growth of cheerleading, the push for Olympic recognition, and the critical focus on safety. Jeff also reflects on the joy he’s found in his career and his ongoing passion for advancing the sport globally.

Kristen answers questions about must-haves for cheer athletes, whether or not USASF standards are optional, and the decision-making process of moving from prep to elite cheer.  Wanna jump around? Here are some highlights: 05:27 Must-Have Cheer Gear 12:14 Competition Realities and Strategies 20:53 Governing Bodies in Cheerleading 21:32 Understanding USASF and Its Role 24:16 Limitations of USASF Authority 30:56 Deciding Between Prep and Elite Cheer Your perfect style awaits, with Slick Hair Company! Visit slickhaircompany.com/thecheermomblog and use code THECHEERMOMBLOG for 10% off!

The episode dives into the specifics of different types of tumbling mats and the progression of tumbling training. Cory - a former tumbling coach and current AirTrack rep -  explains the differences between dead mats, spring floors, rod floors, and Airtracks. Cory gives recommendations for home tumbling equipment and drills - with a few caveats and coaching disclaimers, of course!  Visit getpomi.com/podcast to learn more and see how you can be better protected from the “what-ifs” that happen in cheer.  Find Cory in the chat at https://airtrackus.com/ or cory@airtrackus.com

Kristen explains the significance of championship gifts and tokens in the cheerleading world, highlighting the differences between various competitions. From banners and trophies at local events to coveted Letterman jackets at major events like NCA, the episode dives into what athletes receive when they win a regional event or a large, Super National competition. A special focus is given to the custom-designed championship rings crafted by renowned designer Santwon, whose intricate and thoughtful designs have made a significant impact on the cheer community. Kristen and Santwon have a chat on stage at the All Star World Championship, discussing the inspiration and detailed process behind his iconic rings, and emphasizing his unique relationship with coaches and athletes. Wanna jump around? Here are some highlights: 00:24 Types of Championship Gifts 01:50 The Coveted Championship Jacket 04:31 The Customization Process of Championship Rings 09:08 Championship Ring Design 10:51 Interview with Santwon 13:15 Santwon’s Journey and Insights 16:25 The Creative Process Behind Ring Design   Your perfect style awaits, with Slick Hair Company! Visit slickhaircompany.com/thecheermomblog and use code THECHEERMOMBLOG for 10% off! Use code: POD15 at TheCheerCollection.com for 15% off your order. Ambassador applications for The Cheer Collection are open! Tap here to learn more.

It’s the 100th episode of The Cheer Mom Podcast, and part two of the conversation with Justin Carrier! Today, Kristen and Justin get into the nitty-gritty of some of the hard-hitting questions you all have had in recent months: Scoring, fair judging, and how Summit has become such a big deal. Your perfect style awaits, with Slick Hair Company! Visit slickhaircompany.com/thecheermomblog and use code THECHEERMOMBLOG for 10% off!Use code: POD15 at TheCheerCollection.com for 15% off your order.Ambassador applications for The Cheer Collection are open! Tap here to learn more.

Justin Carrier is a foundational figure in the cheerleading industry, and has been on the list of "dream guests" for the podcast since before the first episode even aired. From being one of the first athletes ever to compete in the bandshell in Daytona, to his current role overseeing NCA and Varsity Spirit, Justin has made big contributions to the sport of cheer. This episode is part one of a two-part interview, and Justin shares insights about the differences between UCA and NCA College Nationals, why he believes NCA All Star has become the premiere cheer event of the season, and all those pesky announcements he has to make in that arena. Wanna jump around? Here are some highlights: 05:52 Justin's Cheerleading Journey 15:30 The Evolution of Cheerleading Skills 22:57 UCA vs. NCA College Nationals 29:53 The Legacy of NCA All Star Nationals 40:26 The Future of NCA: Changes and Challenges 43:31 Varsity Spirit: Enhancing the All Star Experience   Your perfect style awaits, with Slick Hair Company! Visit slickhaircompany.com/thecheermomblog and use code THECHEERMOMBLOG for 10% off! Use code: POD15 at TheCheerCollection.com for 15% off any jewelry purchase!

This is Part 3 in the series that dives into how Varsity Brands became a multi-billion dollar business. Make sure you go back and listen to Parts 1 and 2! In this episode, we're diving into some common questions and concerns about Varsity Spirit. Finalist pin shortages, missing champion jackets and medals at competitions, the inclusion of Disney tickets in event registration fees, and the stay-to-play policy: they're concerns of cheer parents everywhere, and I'm tackling the answers. Try to approach the information in this episode with an open mind as I give a few insights into the economic and logistical challenges underpinning cheer events that even Varsity isn't immune to. Wanna jump around? Here are some highlights: 04:37 Varsity's Valuation Explained 09:47 Common Complaints About Varsity 15:54 Disney Tickets and Cheer Events 25:49 Stay to Play Controversy Visit TheCheerCollection.com and enter code: POD15 for 15% off your purchase. Your perfect style awaits, with Slick Hair Company! Visit slickhaircompany.com/thecheermomblog and use code THECHEERMOMBLOG for 10% off!

Today, we look at the intricate history and business strategies of Varsity Brands. To the best of my ability, and after months of research, conversations with people in the cheer industry, and a deep dive down some really strange rabbit holes, I’m giving an overview of Varsity's evolution from its inception in Jeff Webb’s humble apartment to the billion-dollar business that it is today.  We’re going to learn how All Star cheer came into play in all of this, and impactful ways cheer parents can address their concerns - especially when it comes to the high expenses of cheerleading. Wanna jump around? Here are some of the highlights: 05:55 The Origins and History of Cheerleading 08:03 The Rise of Varsity Brands 18:38 The Birth of All-Star Cheerleading 22:30 Varsity's Business Moves and Acquisitions 30:02 Varsity's Market Domination 36:31 Private Equity Influence 41:25 The Controversial Stay-to-Play Policy 50:48 The Role of Gym Owners and Parents   Visit TheCheerCollection.com and enter code: POD15 for 15% off your purchase. Your perfect style awaits, with Slick Hair Company! Visit slickhaircompany.com/thecheermomblog and use code THECHEERMOMBLOG for 10% off!

This episode is Part 1 is a series about the rise of Varsity as a dominant force in the cheer industry. In order to understand how Varsity became Varsity, we have to start at the very beginning: a very good place to start, according to Dame Julie Andrews and her friends, Rogers and Hammerstein.  Cheer started in the 1800s, but it looked very different from what it does today, including the little detail that women weren’t even included on cheer teams. But two key figures took cheer to the next level: one in 1948, and the other - his protegee - in 1974. Their names are Lawrence Herkimer and Jeff Webb, respectively. Kristen also covers fun trivia, like the first cheer uniform, the origin of the spirit stick, and how color television prompted the invention of the pom-pom.  Wanna jump around? Here are some highlights: 10:41 History of Cheerleading: The Early Years 15:12 Lawrence Herkimer: The Father of Cheerleading 30:33 Jeff Webb and the Birth of Varsity   Visit TheCheerCollection.com and enter code: POD15 for 15% off your purchase. Your perfect style awaits, with Slick Hair Company! Visit slickhaircompany.com/thecheermomblog and use code THECHEERMOMBLOG for 10% off!

In 2021, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) recognized cheerleading as a sport. So, what does that mean, and when will we see it on the athletic world’s biggest stage? The answer isn’t exactly simple or clear. This episode breaks down my (limited) research of the process to be included in the Olympics, next steps for the International Cheer Union, and a few of the roadblocks that may stand in the way. Your perfect style awaits, with Slick Hair Company! Visit slickhaircompany.com/thecheermomblog and use code THECHEERMOMBLOG for 10% off! Visit thecheercollection.com and enter code POD15 for 15% off your order from The Cheer Collection! If you want to dive down the rabbit hole that I did, HERE’S A LINK TO all of the sources I pulled from for the information in this episode.

The All Star World Championship started just a few years ago and has grown exponentially since. With 1,600 teams competing in 2024, it has grown into the biggest all star cheer competition in the world. I talk with two of the owners and the creators of All Star Worlds, Heidi Weber and David Owens, about what it takes to put on an event this large, the challenges they face, and things that cause delays in the schedule. I also ask Heidi and David the question that has been on many minds for the 2025 All Star Worlds. They give their honest answer, and what the future of the event holds.    Your perfect style awaits, with Slick Hair Company! Visit slickhaircompany.com/thecheermomblog and use code THECHEERMOMBLOG for 10% off!

Jamison Alford is a seasoned cheer competition announcer, and he shares his journey into announcing, his role in ensuring competitions run smoothly, and the challenges of the job. The announcer plays a big role in timing, handling technical difficulties, and providing encouragement to cheer teams during an all star competition. The episode also includes practical advice for coaches and thoughts on expanding career opportunities within the cheer industry. Wanna jump around? Here are some highlights: 01:30 Cheer Content Creators and Competition 03:21 Interview with Cheer Announcer Jamison Alford 07:35 The Role and Challenges of a Cheer Announcer 18:16 Safety Protocols and Emergency Situations 19:31 Role and Responsibilities at the Music Table 20:05 Technical Tips for Smooth Performances 21:20 Challenges with Music Devices 22:27 The Importance of Music Quality 29:19 Announcer's Rituals and Tips 30:36 Career Opportunities Beyond Competing 31:35 Starbucks Medicine Ball Tea Recipe Your perfect style awaits, with Slick Hair Company! Visit slickhaircompany.com/thecheermomblog and use code THECHEERMOMBLOG for 10% off! Please consider leaving a review for the podcast here!

Your perfect style awaits, with Slick Hair Company! Visit slickhaircompany.com/thecheermomblog and use code THECHEERMOMBLOG for 10% off! This episode features Coach Orby Orta from the California All Stars, discussing his approach to coaching, and what it means to be coachable; not just for athletes, but for parents and COACHES as well. Coach Orby shares insights on effective coaching styles, the value of establishing strong relationships with athletes, and how to adapt coaching methods to meet the evolving needs of today's athletes. He also touches on parental involvement, addressing common issues such as setting realistic expectations and the importance of parent-coach communication. The discussion underscores the significance of trust, innovation, and love for the sport in building successful and cohesive cheer teams. It's no wonder Orby has coached so many successful teams and athletes! Wanna jump around? Here are some highlights: 04:54 Guest Introduction: Coach Orbie Orta 08:06 Coach Orbie's Journey in Cheerleading 09:11 The Importance of Passion in Coaching 10:47 Training and Creativity in Cheerleading 17:28 Balancing Coaching Styles and Personal Relationships 20:15 Building Relationships with Athletes 26:55 Addressing Toxic Coaching Cultures 29:52 The Importance of Being Coachable 32:38 Parental Influence on Athlete Development 40:24 Transitioning Athletes to New Coaching Styles 46:41 The Value of Building Relationships with Parents

CONTENT AND TRIGGER WARNING This episode contains subject matter that may trigger some. Please take care while listening. The battle between Monica Aldama and USA Cheer continues as Monica calls the organization out for keeping her on the suspended list, costing her business deals and her reputation. Monica also names Madi Lane in the lawsuit and gives her account of what happened after an event that occurred in September of 2021, which is described in Madi Lane's original lawsuit against former athlete Salvo Amico, Coach Monica, and other Navarro College officials. This episode carefully navigates the lawsuit, detailing the accusations, responses, and impacts on Monica's personal life and career. I've covered this saga in multiple previous episodes, which are linked below. Wanna jump around? Here are some key details: 04:11 Recap of the Lawsuit Against Coach Monica Aldama 05:15 Understanding Lawsuits and Allegations 09:41 Coach Monica's Response 11:28 Details of the Lawsuit 32:59 Monica's Emotional Struggle 33:22 USA Cheer Suspension 36:52 Accusations against Safe Sport and USA Cheer 41:18 Describing Varsity Brands as a Monopoly 48:01 Monica's Allegations and Damages 56:08 Conclusion and Reflections   https://drive.google.com/file/d/1tXeUGCCgUlKgKcKpufVY-wpVEwiPE4Yj/view https://bleav.com/shows/the-cheer-mom-podcast/episodes/coach-monicas-beef-with-usa-cheer/ https://bleav.com/shows/the-cheer-mom-podcast/episodes/updates-on-varsity-law-suits-coach-monica-and-is-nca-getting-a-new-home/ https://bleav.com/shows/the-cheer-mom-podcast/episodes/navarro-cheer-bombshell/ Link to law suit brought against Monica Aldama

Your perfect style awaits, with Slick Hair Company! Visit slickhaircompany.com/thecheermomblog and use code THECHEERMOMBLOG for 10% off! "WHY do I need to sign her up for private lessons? Cheer is already expensive enough!" That was my mindset as a new cheer mom. I wasn't wrong, and if you are thinking the same thing you're not wrong either. Then I started to look into private lessons and learned a few things. I'm sharing my thoughts as a 12-year veteran cheer mom now! Wanna jump around? Here are some highlights: 14:19 The Value of Personalized Coaching 18:16 The Importance of Private Lessons 19:19 Types of Private Lessons 20:49 Building Athlete-Coach Relationships 22:22 Dealing with Different Coaching Styles 25:31 Choosing the Right Coach 27:48 Parental Involvement in Private Lessons 30:14 Cost-Effective Alternatives to Private Lessons 34:14 Strength and Conditioning Tips 36:23 Improving Stunting Skills

Toxic cultures in cheer exist. The stories I've heard from so many of you are heartbreaking, and the language and styles that some coaches and owners are using are unacceptable. I am outraged on your behalf. So, I called Jeff Benson, who is an expert on communication and developing a healthy mindset and culture specifically in cheer. Jeff explains what it means to be psychologically safe and provides insights and practical tools for parents and coaches to foster healthier environments. The discussion covers the importance of a growth mindset, effective communication strategies, and the role of parents in recognizing and addressing toxic behaviors. Jeff emphasizes the need for a collaborative approach to creating champion-minded cultures in cheer gyms. Connect with Jeff: Instagram Facebook YouTube Mentioned in this episode (some links may be affiliate links, which means I get a small portion of your purchase, which helps the podcast!): Join me at The Cheer Collection's Premiere Party in Dallas! Crucial Conversations book Wanna jump around? Here are some highlights in the episode: 15:44 Tackling Toxic Traits in Coaching 38:19 Understanding Emotions: The Stoplight Metaphor 38:49 Handling Red Light Emotions 39:39 Gathering Information and Addressing Concerns 41:51 Psychological Safety and Emotional Regulation 45:48 Toxic Culture and Fixed Mindset 49:50 Effective Communication 01:00:03 Balancing Values: Winning vs. Well-being 01:13:50 Champion Minded Culture: Tools and Resources 01:18:58 Changing the Culture of Cheer

I had an engaging conversation with fellow Cheer Mom, Heather, who asked me some insightful questions. We talk about the importance of family focus, effective communication, and maintaining boundaries to keep young athletes grounded. Listen to my personal stories and a little bit of "tea" on the time I lied to my kid right before a competition! Wanna jump around? Here are some highlights: 05:43 Challenges and Surprises of Cheer Parenting 15:17 Balancing Cheer and Family Values 24:48 What's next for me? Join me in Dallas, Texas on July 18th for a very special event! Find out more here.

I had an insightful conversation with my friend Candice from No Limit, Live from the All Star World Championship in Orlando. We talk for a few minutes about the evolution of cheer shoes, but then we dive into balancing being a cheer mom and a cheer business woman. The episode also highlights the what a big crush we both have on TGLC, upcoming events, and mentorship opportunities within the cheer industry. Wanna jump around? Here are some highlights from this episode: 08:52 The Importance of Cheer Shoes 14:54 Balancing Business and Cheer Mom Life 18:54 Building Trust in the Cheer Community 22:50 Flight Crew and Mentorship Program 25:56 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up Join me at the Premiere Party, hosted by The Cheer Collection! Buy your tickets here: https://thecheercollection.com/premiere-party For more information about No Limit, visit www.nolimitsportswear.com

I was nominated for a Globey Award! Vote for me here.  Mentioned in this episode: https://thecheermomblog.com/cheer-team-crossovers-is-it-worth-it/ In my opinion, there are at least 6 questions you need to ask in order to ensure a smooth decision-making process when it comes to cheer crossovers, and I'm going through all of them.

Special guests Maggie and Stephen from Flyer Athletics, Tyler, Texas, join in to share their experiences of running a D2 gym. They talk about the intense competition they crave, their gym's culture, and the balance between pushing athletes and nurturing their skills. With stories about community-building and the emotional rollercoaster of team placements (even for the coaches!), this episode offers an insightful look into the world of competitive cheerleading from a D2 perspective. Purchase The Cheer Dad Survival Guide Follow Coach Maggie Follow Coach Stephen Learn more about the Premiere Party this summer!!!  Wanna jump around? Here are some notable moments in this episode: 07:15 The Journey of Flyer Athletics: From Cheer to Entrepreneurship 11:53 Choosing the All Star World Championship: A D2 Gym's Perspective 16:55 Setting High Standards in a Small Gym 20:48 Competing with Pride 22:36 Fostering a Competitive Edge and Community Support 23:14 Embracing the D2 Identity: More Than Just a Number 24:31 Navigating Athlete Loyalty and Gym Culture 27:56 Setting High Standards and Encouraging Growth 34:47 The Complex Puzzle of Team Selection 38:52 Balancing Encouragement and Realism in Coaching