The (Im)Perfect Cheerleader Podcast

SummaryIn this episode of the Imperfect Cheerleader podcast, host Jasmine Neely discusses the emotional journey of cheerleaders on the DCC, focusing on Dayton's experience and the dynamics of training camp. She emphasizes the importance of personal growth, leadership, and representation within dance teams, while also encouraging listeners to find passions outside of cheerleading. The episode concludes with a preview of upcoming guests and discussions.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Vision Board Reflection01:52 Emotional Decisions in Team Dynamics05:14 Finding Passion Beyond Dance06:22 Celebrating Diversity in Leadership08:17 Conversations on Pay and Representation09:39 Understanding Individual Choices in Team Dynamics12:16 The Importance of Personal Strengths and Learning Styles15:08 Navigating Competition and Feedback in Auditions18:05 The Emotional Toll of Being Cut from a Team18:59 Looking Ahead: Future Opportunities and GrowthFollow on Instagram @theprofessionalcheerleader and TikTok at @thepro.cheerleader

SummaryIn this episode of the Imperfect Cheerleader Podcast, host Jasmine Neely explores the journey of becoming a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader, focusing on themes of hair and identity through the lens of the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders show, the importance of flexibility and kicks, mental toughness, and the support systems that help dancers navigate the audition process. The conversation also delves into the tier system in training camp, the role of appearance in dance success, and the pressures of legacy and age in auditions. Throughout the episode, Neely emphasizes the significance of personal growth and introspection for dancers as they pursue their dreams.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Episode Overview01:53 Key Takeaways from Episode Three07:03 The Importance of Mental Toughness and Community10:35 The Tier System and Transparency in Judging12:27 Critiques and Expressions in Dance16:56 The Role of Appearance and Age in Auditions21:24 Skill vs. Loyalty in Team Dynamics24:27 Reflections on Individual Dancers and Future Potential25:12 NEWCHAPTERFollow @theprofessionalcheerleader on Instagram and @thepro.cheerleader on TikTok.

SummaryIn this episode of the Imperfect Cheerleader podcast, host Jasmine Neely recaps season 2 episode 2 of of the Netflix show DCC Making the team. She discusses various aspects of NFL cheerleading, including the fun parts and challenges of being a pro dancer, the dynamics of leadership within cheer teams, the importance of knowing team history, and the emotional pressures faced by cheerleaders. She reflects on personal experiences, the significance of mentorship, and the balance between professional life and dance commitments. The conversation highlights the cultural impact of cheerleading and the need for self-acceptance and growth in a competitive environment.TakeawaysThe NFL cheerleading world is embracing social media trends.Leadership can be quiet yet impactful.Craving approval from coaches is a common feeling.Knowledge of the team is essential for cheerleaders.Viral dance trends showcase the influence of cheerleaders.Personal growth is a continuous journey for dancers.The pressure to be perfect can be overwhelming.Mentorship plays a crucial role in cheerleading.Balancing dance with professional life is challenging.Emotional resilience is key in the dance and cheerleading environment.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Imperfect Cheerleader Podcast03:14 Recap of Season Two, Episode Two08:06 Leadership Dynamics in Cheerleading12:19 The Influence of Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders14:26 Personal Growth and Transitioning17:25 Feedback and Vulnerability in Leadership19:55 Mentorship and Support Among Cheerleaders23:10 Balancing Dance and Professional Life26:59 The Importance of Physical Fitness for Dancers30:41 Navigating Perfectionism in Cheerleading34:09 Self-Awareness and Improvement35:49 Conclusion and Future EpisodesFollow @theprofessionalcheerleader on Instagram and @thepro.cheerleader on TikTok

SummaryIn this episode of the Imperfect Cheerleader podcast, host Jasmine Neely discusses the first episode of Season 2 of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders show. She reflects on the emotional opening scene, the importance of diversity, the dynamics of team relationships, and the challenges faced by dancers during auditions. Jasmine emphasizes the significance of feedback, the role of leadership, and the impact of age and maturity in the cheerleading world. Throughout the episode, she shares her insights and personal experiences, creating a relatable and empowering narrative for aspiring dancers and cheerleaders.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Imperfect Cheerleader Podcast00:58 Exploring the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders03:22 Opening Insights on Season Two, Episode One06:20 Character Development and Team Dynamics10:36 Diversity and Representation in Auditions14:26 The Importance of Feedback and Growth15:40 Recruitment and Background of Dancers20:38 The Role of Solos in Auditions21:29 Returning Members and Unspoken Rules26:04 Personal Stories and Motivations27:59 Final Auditions and First Impressions31:25 Age and Maturity in Dance32:23 Conclusion and Future Episodes32:30 Exploring Personal Growth and ImperfectionFollow @theprofessionalcheerleader on Instagram and @thepro.cheerleader on TikTok

SummaryIn this episode of the Imperfect Cheerleader podcast, host Jasmine Neely engages in a deep conversation with mentor Kevin Hyrams about the multifaceted nature of failure, the importance of resetting and persistence, and the transition from corporate life to entrepreneurship. Hyrams shares his journey of founding SideReal Global, emphasizing the role of innovation in dance and the necessity for dancers to embrace their identity as brand ambassadors. The discussion also touches on the evolving landscape of pro cheerleading, the need for better pay, and the potential for future trends in the dance industry. In this engaging conversation, Kevin R. Hyrams and Jasmine Neely explore the intersection of dance, branding, and personal success. They discuss the importance of shaping one's image in the dance industry, the value of dance in professional sports, and how success evolves over time. Kevin shares valuable lessons learned from the women in his life and emphasizes the need for authentic support systems to overcome fear and achieve goals. The discussion wraps up with rapid-fire insights, highlighting the significance of authenticity and the power of community in personal and professional growth.Chapters00:00 The Importance of Resetting and Persistence03:56 Navigating Personal Loss and Regret05:22 Transitioning from Corporate to Entrepreneurship08:28 The Birth of SideReel Global11:19 Innovating in Business: Meeting Client Needs14:08 The Role of Dancers as Brand Ambassadors17:10 Leveraging Innovation in Performance19:59 Building Relationships and Networking23:03 The Future of Dance and Business Integration40:20 NIL Opportunities for Dancers42:11 The Value of Dance Teams in Sports44:59 Maximizing Brand Ambassadors47:44 Innovative Ideas for Dance Teams50:47 The Importance of Understanding Dance52:48 Redefining Success in Dance56:14 Future Trends in Dance and Technology01:04:34 The Role of Arts in Society01:14:25 Defining Personal Success01:22:05 Carrying a Legacy01:23:26 Influence of Women in Life01:26:32 Lessons from Family01:28:21 Support from a Partner01:30:45 Empowering Women in Medicine01:32:13 Respecting Women and Traditions01:34:15 Overcoming Fear of Failure01:38:24 Building Authentic Support Networks01:40:06 Rapid Fire Insights01:51:03 Looking AheadKevin Hyrams biography Kevin R. Hyrams is an innovative business leader and entrepreneur, serving as the ManagingDirector and Founder of Sidereal Global, LLC. Under his visionary leadership, this diversified holding company excels in business development, branding, digital media, and private equity engagement. Kevin is renowned for integrating advanced technologies with strategic foresight, driving sustainable growth and delivering measurable client success. Sidereal Global reflects Kevin’s dedication not only to entrepreneurial excellence but also to creating solutions that connect business innovation with community betterment.Kevin’s career is defined by a global perspective and large-scale operational expertise. At Eastman Kodak Company, he managed operations spanning 35 countries across North and South America, crafting market-specific strategies that led to double-digit profit growth. At Bank of America, Kevin brought his expertise to the digital landscape as Senior Vice President of Consumer E-Commerce Services. Overseeing platforms serving more than 25 million users, he drove a 17% increase in digital engagement and expanded mobile banking adoption to 2 million users within a year. Kevin’s contributions extend to board service for several organizations, including the Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina, TEGNA/WCNC-TV, and the Urban League of Central Carolinas, where his strategic guidance continues to make a meaningful impact.Social media and where to find Kevin:@krhyrams Sidereal Global everywhere

In this episode, Jasmine discusses the business aspects of cheerleading and dance teams, emphasizing the importance of profitability and audience engagement. She explores the dynamics between coaches and team members, highlighting the need for emotional resilience during auditions and the often impersonal nature of feedback. Jasmine introduces the 'Let Them Theory' as a way to cope with rejection and encourages listeners to focus on personal growth and self-worth beyond team placements.Chapters00:00 The Business of Cheerleading and Dance Teams04:54 Understanding Coaches and Feedback08:02 The Let Them Theory and Personal GrowthFollow @theprofessionalcheerleader on Instagram and @thepro.cheerleader on TikTok

In this episode, Coach Lain Lee discusses his journey into performance psychology, emphasizing the importance of understanding fear, mental blocks, and the role of discomfort in performance. He shares insights on the impact of pressure on athletes, using Simone Biles' experience as a case study. The conversation also explores cultural attitudes towards rest and recovery, and the distinction between motivation and discipline in achieving success. He discusses the importance of inspiration in training, the toxic aspects of performance-focused cultures in cheer and dance, and the need for emotional intelligence in coaching. He emphasizes the significance of effective communication in building strong teams and explores the relationship between confidence, discomfort, and perfectionism. The discussion also touches on trauma responses and the power of imagination in overcoming fear.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Performance Psychology Coaching04:47 The Journey from Cheerleading to Coaching07:39 Understanding Mental Blocks and Their Misconceptions10:47 The Science Behind Memory and Mental Blocks13:55 The Role of Discomfort in Performance16:48 The Impact of Judgment on Performers19:48 Navigating Auditions and Performance Anxiety22:36 Childhood Trauma and Its Effects on Performance25:42 The Importance of Processing Trauma28:44 The Consequences of Ignoring Mental Health in Sports31:42 The Case of Simone Biles and Mental Health Awareness36:51 Understanding Anxiety and Dorsal Vagal Shutdown40:34 The Impact of Motivation Culture42:12 The Grind Culture and Its Consequences50:35 The Toxicity in Cheer and Dance Culture57:27 Building Effective Teams Through Vulnerability01:02:30 Confidence: Natural vs. Manufactured01:07:27 Building Confidence Through Discomfort01:12:32 The Role of Perfectionism in Performance01:17:30 Understanding Anxiety and Perfectionism01:21:56 Responding to Trauma and Discomfort01:26:08 The Power of Imagination and Reality01:28:43 Rapid Fire Insights and ReflectionsFind Coach Lain @coachlain everywhere! Follow @theprofessionalcheerleader for pro dance and cheer tips!

Ana Ogbueze will be at the Pro dance intensive on June 7! Sign up now: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1357969396019?aff=oddtdtcreatorSummaryIn this episode of the Imperfect Cheerleader podcast, Ana Ogbueze shares her journey from being an NBA dancer to becoming a successful dance entrepreneur. She discusses the importance of commitment, professionalism, and the mindset required to succeed in the dance industry. Ana reflects on her experiences with adversity, the distinct roles of choreographers and teachers, and the evolution of dance teams. She emphasizes the significance of character and attitude in auditions and performances, and shares insights about her new opportunities with Choreography Pros. In this conversation, Jasmine Neely discusses her journey in the dance industry, emphasizing the importance of faith, community, and the evolution of dance opportunities in Charlotte. She shares her experiences transitioning from a performer to a producer, her passion for creating spaces for dancers, and her vision for the future of dance in the community. The conversation highlights the significance of embracing imperfection and authenticity in both personal and professional growth.Chapters00:00 Celebrating Milestones and New Beginnings09:28 From NBA Dancer to Entrepreneur12:17 Defining Professionalism in Dance15:19 Overcoming Adversity in Dance18:11 The Art of Choreography vs. Teaching21:07 The Journey of a Dance Student24:12 Growing Up in Dance27:03 The Transition to Professional Dance29:48 Memorable Moments as a Lady Cat33:01 Support and Understanding from Family35:29 Lessons Learned in Dance47:32 Mindset and Preparation for Auditions55:14 The Importance of Character in Auditions01:01:16 Strategic Auditioning: Standing Out in a Competitive Field01:07:56 Faith and Career: The Journey of Entrepreneurship01:16:48 The Role of Faith in Personal Growth01:26:35 Project Full Out: Empowering Dancers Through Opportunities01:31:16 Empowering Dancers Through Opportunities01:34:07 The Future of Dance in Charlotte01:37:15 Inspiration and Community Impact01:38:08 Rapid Fire Fun and Personal Insights01:51:48 Memorable Performances and Advice02:04:33 Connecting with the AudienceFind Ana on all platforms: @AnaOhBoyZee @ncdancedistrict Follow @theprofessionalcheerleader on Instagram and @thepro.cheerleader on TikTok for more pro dance and pro cheer tips.

SummaryIn this episode of the Imperfect Cheerleader podcast, host Jasmine Neely shares practical strategies for building confidence in preparation for dance auditions. She emphasizes the importance of mindset and self-empowerment through creating an uplifting playlist, performing for supportive friends, and stepping out of comfort zones. Jasmine encourages listeners to embrace challenges and shift their mindset to foster growth and confidence.TakeawaysConfidence is crucial for success in auditions.Creating an empowering playlist can boost self-esteem.Performing for friends helps build comfort and confidence.Getting used to being watched is essential for auditions.Stepping out of your comfort zone fosters personal growth.Confrontation can be a confidence builder.Avoid apologizing unnecessarily to enhance self-assurance.Accept compliments graciously to strengthen confidence.Mindset shifts can lead to better performance outcomes.Continuous practice and exposure lead to growth.LinksMay 17th dance class - SIGN UPJune 7th pro intensive - SIGN UP

SummaryIn this episode of the Imperfect Cheerleader podcast I am reflecting on my journey and the importance of adapting to different coaching styles in the cheerleading and dance industry. I emphasize the need for flexibility and openness to change, discussing how these qualities are essential for success in a dynamic environment. I also share insights on industry trends and invite you to submit questions via voice notes. Lastly, I remind you of upcoming classes from The Professional Cheerleader.TakeawaysHappy season six!You need to do your eyes first!Study the coach that is coming in.Adjusting to the coach's style does matter.Things are always changing.It's a test that you can overcome.Think of it more as an opportunity.Being approachable is important.Send me a voice note of your question.Chapters00:00 Welcome to Season Six02:31 Understanding Coaching Styles05:03 Adapting to Change in Dance07:58 Future Trends in Pro Cheer and Dance10:01 Engaging with the Audience____________________________________________UPCOMING CLASSES AND OPPORTUNITIES:May 17 in-person class: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1344878340319?aff=oddtdtcreatorJune 7 - Full out pro class and mock audition: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2025-full-out-pro-intensive-tickets-1357969396019?aff=oddtdtcreatorSend voice notes of questions you have to theprofessionalcheerleader@gmail.com and I will answer them live on the show!

Find all the products Caitlyn used on me here!In this engaging conversation, makeup artist Caitlyn Dominic shares her insights on various aspects of makeup application, from the challenges of posing clients to the intricacies of performance makeup. The discussion covers personal preferences in makeup techniques, the evolution of makeup products, and her transition from a corporate job to a full-time makeup artist. Caitlyn also provides valuable advice for aspiring makeup artists and emphasizes the importance of client interactions and personalized lessons. The conversation concludes with a focus on current makeup trends and the significance of adapting techniques to individual styles.TakeawaysPosing clients can be challenging, especially for those who are camera shy.Eyeliner is often considered one of the hardest makeup tasks.Lips are a focal point in makeup application and can enhance the overall look.Performance makeup requires bolder choices to stand out on stage.Spot concealing is essential for achieving a flawless finish.Makeup trends evolve, with a resurgence of 90s styles like lip liners.Teaching makeup lessons can empower clients to enhance their skills.Every makeup lesson is unique and tailored to the individual's needs.Understanding skin tones and undertones is crucial for makeup application.The importance of using quality products cannot be overstated.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Makeup Setup00:07 Journey into Makeup and Dance Background09:04 Transitioning from Marketing to Full-Time Makeup Artist19:18 Dance Experiences and Performance Makeup Insights20:11 Navigating Client Poses and Makeup Challenges22:11 Mastering Eyeliner and Eye Makeup Techniques25:03 The Importance of Complexion in Makeup28:06 Choosing the Right Products for Performance Makeup30:52 Daily Makeup Routines and Essential Products34:02 Understanding Bronzer and Contouring Techniques37:11 Tips for Dancers on Makeup Application39:52 Maintaining Makeup for Oily Skin43:09 Matching Makeup to Skin and Eye Color46:06 Current Makeup Trends and Industry Insights46:11 Makeup Preferences and Challenges48:53 Makeup Application Techniques51:42 Concealing Blemishes and Skin Care54:29 Blush and Contouring Tips57:29 Drugstore vs. Luxury Makeup Brands01:00:06 Makeup Preferences: This or That01:03:11 Seasonal Makeup Trends01:05:04 Client Experiences and Pet Peeves01:07:55 Dream Clients and Celebrity Makeup01:10:22 Makeup Trends: Past and Future01:12:21 Final Touches and Makeup LessonsFind Caitlyn Dominic:@Caitlynmichelle.com@makeupbycaitlyn@makeupbycaitlynmichelle

Rejection is a part of every dancer's journey, but it doesn’t have to define your story. In this episode, we dive deep into the challenges of facing rejection in the dance world and how to transform setbacks into stepping stones. Whether it’s not landing that coveted audition or struggling with self-doubt, we’ll explore how shifting your mindset can empower you to keep going.If you’ve ever felt defeated by a “no” or questioned your worth as a dancer, this episode is your reminder that every rejection is an opportunity to grow. 🌟Follow me on Instagram: @theprofessionalcheerleader

The power of the tongue is real! We talk about body image, overcoming roadblocks in your dancing and noticing how you speak to yourself. Enjoy this episode!

We are talking about what you can expect a judge's sheet to look like and thus what you should prepare for. Subscribe to the ImPerfect Cheerleader podcast!Subscribe to the YouTube channel! https://www.youtube.com/@theprofessionalcheerleader3985

ATTENTION: If you listened to this episode, there's a gift for you toward the end...but you have to listen to the end to find out what it is! And it's goooood. You're welcome, babe. ___________________________________________________________Marissa is the founder / creator of WKS! She grew up and went to school in Northern VA. Her love for fitness started young (competitive gymnast + dance team member!) She moved to Charlotte in 2011, after making the Carolina Panthers TopCats and is a CPT and nutrition specialist through ACE. She focuses her fitness studies on cardio/interval training, resistance training, ballet barre, and Pilates. Marissa experimented with these different fitness genres and developed the signature trademarked and patent pending WKS methodology, incorporating cardio, strength training, and Pilates into one dynamic workout! She’s been featured as a fitness expert in major publications such as Men's Health, Popsugar, and Cooking Light Magazine!  Marissa was also named one of Charlotte Agenda's “Top 10 Small Business Owners” in 2019. She has gone live on Instagram via Shape Magazine and Hollywood Life, showcasing the unique WKS workout with Sports Illustrated model, Olivia Culpo. The WKS curated methodology is used by the Carolina Panthers’ TopCats, Miss USA, Miss Universe, and other prominent influencers and athletes to maintain peak performance. As the CEO of WKS, Marissa works with the management team to make corporate decisions, evaluates operational protocol, and navigates the strategic direction of the company.WKS is also a sponsor for the Topcats, so make sure to stop by and take a class to get in tip top shape for auditions!____________________________________________________You can follow Marissa @westkeptsecret and @mrswestisinthebuildingVisit https://westkeptsecret.co/ to book a class!