Jason Larkins, Bleav

Let’s Talk Cheer: The Cheerleading Podcast For Parents & Coaches

Sports EN ↓ 332 episodes

Are you tired of feeling totally lost when it comes to all-star cheerleading? Then the "Let's Talk Cheer" podcast, hosted by Jason Larkins, Cheer Director at American Cheer, is the show for you. Each episode Jason educates and entertains coaches and parents alike. First, so that coaches walk into each practice motivated, and so that they know they aren't alone on their journey. Second, so that parents have a better understanding of their athlete's sport. If you’re ready to join the team, you can start with a fan favorite episode from May 9th, “Jason and Brittany talk all things tryouts.” Suppo...

Author

Jason Larkins, Bleav

Category

Sports

Podcast website

bleav.com

Latest episode

Jul 1, 2026

Where to listen?

Podcasts in the app Replaio Radio Coming soon

Podcasts are coming to the app soon. Install now and be the first to see a whole new take on podcasts

Get it on Google Play Install for free Android 5M+ downloads · 4.8 rating iOS soon

Episodes

How Cheer Extreme Became Legendary: Insights from Courtney Smith-Pope and Kelly Helton 18.09.2024

Have you ever wondered how the Cheer Extreme we know and love rose to prominence? What role did their mother play in shaping their business practices and coaching philosophies? In this episode, Jason Larkins dives deep into the journey of Kelly Helton and Courtney Smith-Pope, the sister-owners behind the powerhouse gym Cheer Extreme, who have mastered the art of balancing discipline, organization,...

Why Setting Expectations is the Key to Success in Cheer: Alexa Huff’s Bold Perspective 18.09.2024

In this mini episode, Jason Larkins interview Alexa Huff, owner of Rival Athletics as they cover topics related to coaching, vision, winning routines, industry standards, and advice for young coaches. They dive into the importance of setting clear expectations, creating vision for athletes, and the significance of hard work and dedication. The conversation also explores the need to eliminate the i...

How to Build an Empire Like Cheer Extreme with Courtney Smith-Pope and Kelly Helton 18.09.2024

In this mini episode, Jason Larkins interviews Kasey Cloutier as she shares her coaching techniques, and strategies for maintaining high-quality practices and performances. They dive into the use of resources, simple drills, time management, and the challenges of being an underdog in the industry. Scoresheet 101 for PARENTS- Sept 29 Preparing For Full-Outs Live Training- Sept 29 Get Your Let’s Tal...

Are You Holding Yourself Back? Noël Roberts Coley on Growth and Ambition in Cheerleading 18.09.2024

In this mini episode, Noël Roberts Coley, owner of Diamonds All Stars, shares insights on growth, handling comparison, inspiring athletes, finding joy, and keeping standards in the cheerleading industry. She emphasizes the importance of focusing on personal growth and being true to oneself rather than comparing to others. Noël also highlights the significance of building relationships with athlete...

How to Design Winning Practices: Nikki Little's Tips for Cheer Coaches 18.09.2024

In this mini episode, Jason Larkins interviews Nikki Little, owner of South Coast Cheer. They discuss how to determine an athlete's level, the importance of mental toughness, dealing with negative athletes, overcoming obstacles, and structuring practice. Nikki shares her insights and experiences as a coach, providing valuable advice for other coaches. Scoresheet 101 for PARENTS- Sept 29 Preparing...

How to Build Flawless Cheer Routines: Caliegh Epolito on Execution and Consistency 18.09.2024

In this mini episode, Caleigh Epolito, co-owner of Rain Athletics, shares insights on coaching, training, and team performance. She emphasizes the importance of mindset, technique, and accountability in achieving success. Caleigh's coaching philosophy focuses on breaking down skills, emphasizing conditioning, and training for execution and consistency. Scoresheet 101 for PARENTS- Sept 29 Preparing...

What’s Broken in Cheerleading? Bold Takes from the Industry’s Best on What Must Stop 18.09.2024

In this episode, we revisit our summer guest lineup and dive deeper into their insights on what needs to start, stop, or change in the cheer industry. We hear once again from industry giants: Courtney Smith-Pope, owner of Cheer Extreme; Brad Habermel, owner of Cheer Athletics; Roger Schonder, owner of Stingrays; Elaine Pascale, owner of World Cup; Orson Sykes, owner of Twist & Shout; Jennifer...

Is Your Allstar Cheer Business Set Up for Success? Danielle Johnston on What Gym Owners Get Wrong 18.09.2024

In this episode Jason Larkins interviews Danielle Johnston, owner of Twister Sports and one of the owners of Next Generation Gym Owners. The discuss the challenges and solutions for gym owners in the allstar cheerleading industry. She emphasizes the importance of constant improvement and listening to parents' feedback to make the gym better. NextGen offers business coaching for gym owners, providi...

Why the Lady Jag’s Uniform at NCA Sparked Controversy: Top Gun's Victor Rosario Weighs In 18.09.2024

Vist pomi- Peace of Mind Insurance- Getpomi.com/podcast In this episode, Jason Larkins interviews Victor Rosario, owner of Top Gun Allstars. They discuss the controversy surrounding Lady Jags uniform debut at NCA, the process of coming up with themes for each season, along with the importance of discipline in coaching. He also shares his thoughts on the United and USASF scoresheets, highlighting t...

From Gold Standard to Fallout: Jomo Thompson's Reflections as Kentucky Cheer’s Former Head Coach 18.09.2024

Vist pomi- Peace of Mind Insurance- Getpomi.com/podcast In this episode Jason Larkins interviews Jomo Thompson long time head coach at the University of Kentucky. Jomo shares his journey in cheerleading, from being a gymnast in high school to becoming a cheerleader at the University of Florida and later at the University of Kentucky. He talks about the pressure of coaching at Kentucky and the impo...

Lessons You Can’t Ignore: The Blueprint for Cheer Coaching Success 18.09.2024

Ever wondered what separates top cheerleaders from the rest? What if you could unlock the secrets to mastering mindset, overcoming obstacles, and achieving peak performance? In this episode, we feature insights from five of the hottest gyms in cheerleading. Whether you're struggling with mindset, aiming for personal growth, or seeking strategies for high-quality performances, this episode is your...

Jennifer Long on Navigating Gym Mergers, Rivalries, and Building CheerForce San Diego 18.09.2024

In this episode, Jason Larkins interviews Jennifer Long, owner of CheerForce San Diego. Jennifer shares her journey in the cheerleading industry, from starting in high school dance coach to building successful programs at Granite Hills High, San Diego State University and Cheerforce. She discusses the challenges of merging different gyms and the bitter rivalries that existed in the early years. Je...

Are Traditional Cheer Competitions Outdated? Kevin Brubaker on Cheer Expo’s Bold Approach 18.09.2024

In this episode, we sit down with Kevin Brubaker, the visionary founder of The Cheer Expo, to dive into the exciting new events coming to cities across the country this season. Kevin shares what sets The Cheer Expo apart from other competitions, highlighting their innovative scoring system, exclusive bid opportunities, and flexible stay-to-play policies. Discover how The Cheer Expo offers prep tea...

Want to Build a Cheer Powerhouse? Orson Sykes Shares How Twist & Shout Became Legendary 18.09.2024

In this episode, Jason Larkins interviews Orson Sykes, owner of Twist and Shout. Orson shares his journey from being a gymnast to building Twist and Shout into the powerhouse they are today. He discusses the early days of the allstar cheerleading industry and the challenges they faced. Orson also talks about their first win at the NCA and highlights the importance of mentorship and the impact it h...

Why Elaine Pascale Took a Stand: How World Cup’s Boycotts Shaped Their Legacy 18.09.2024

Are you ready to discover how World Cup became the World Cup we all know and love? In this episode, Jason Larkins interviews Elaine Pascale, owner of World Cup. If you're an allstar cheerleading coach, cheer mom/dad, or gym owner striving to navigate the challenges of today’s competitive cheer landscape, this episode offers invaluable insights on building a positive and nurturing environment for y...

Is Precision the Key to Cheerleading Greatness? Roger Schonder on What Makes The Stingray All-Stars Shine 18.09.2024

Have you ever wondered how The Stingray Allstars became, The Stingray Allstars, what it takes to build a powerhouse cheerleading gym from the ground up? In this episode, Jason Larkins interviews Roger Schonder, owner of The Stingray Allstars. If you're a cheer coach, parent, or gym owner looking to overcome the challenges of team dynamics and improve your competitive edge, this episode is for you....

Is Innovation the Key to Cheerleading Success? Brad Habermel on Cheer Athletics’ Rise 18.09.2024

In this episode, Jason Larkins interviews Brad Habermel, owner of Cheer Athletics, a pioneer in the allstar cheerleading industry. The conversation covers topics such as the history of Cheer Athletics, the decision to go bow-less, the coaching structure at Cheer Athletics, and how the gym handles being in the limelight. Brad discusses the expansion of the brand to different cities and states and t...

Why Cheerleading Scoring Must Change: Courtney Smith-Pope on Its Effect on Your Season 18.09.2024

In this mini episode, Courtney Smith-Pope emphasizes the need for a more affordable and less travel-intensive industry. Courtney debunks the myth that her allstar cheerleading gym is mean and hateful, and expresses her desire for more positivity and respect in the industry. Scoresheet 101 for PARENTS- July 17th Scoresheet 202 for COACHES- July 18th Get Your Let’s Talk Cheer Podcast T-Shirt Jason's...

What Makes Cheer Extreme So Dominant? Courtney Smith-Pope Shares Her Secrets 18.09.2024

In this episode Jason Larkins interviews Courtney Smith-Pope, owner of Cheer Extreme. Courtney shares her journey in cheerleading, from coaching her sister in elementary school to founding Cheer Extreme All-Stars. She reflects on the evolution of cheerleading from the 1990s to the present day, highlighting the changes in music, divisions, and skill sets. Courtney also discusses the transition from...

Are Cheer Parents Wrong About Tryout Fees? Why All-Star Gyms Must Charge Them 18.09.2024

In this episode, Jason Larkins and Brittany Moore discuss tryouts and team placements in allstar cheerleading gyms. They address the topic of tryout fees and explain why gyms charge them. They also discuss the issue of athletes moving from higher age brackets to lower age brackets and the perception of being demoted. Jason emphasizes the importance of placing teams in the most advantageous positio...

Cheer Athletics Panthers #1, But Where’s TGLC? The Cheerleading Rankings Everyone’s Talking About 18.09.2024

In this episode, now that the World Championships have completed, Jason Larkins and Santwon McCray, analyze the top teams from the World Championships and discuss what sets them apart. From Panthers to Revelation, they break down each team's performance and why those teams deserve the top spots. Join them as they share insights, predictions, and shoutouts to the standout teams in the world of chee...

Why TGLC and Louisville Large Coed Stand Out: Santwon McCray’s Inside Look at Greatness 18.09.2024

Are you ready to hear an inspiring story of passion, resilience, and triumph in the world of cheerleading This episode dives into Santwon's incredible journey from resisting allstar cheer to becoming a star at Top Gun Allstars (TGLC) and the University of Louisville, tackling personal challenges and finding his true passion. Discover how his story mirrors the struggles and aspirations you face in...

Is It Time to Ban Cheer Parents from Judging? The Controversial Take on Competition Bias 18.09.2024

In this episode, Jason Larkins and Cheer Mom, Brittany Moore, discuss various topics related to allstar cheerleading, including the controversy surrounding a teacher allowing students to take down his braids, the importance of maintaining appropriate boundaries between coaches/teachers and students, and the debate over wildcard bids in cheer competitions. The conversation covers various topics rel...

How Edwin Melendez’s Life and Legacy Inspired Cheerleaders Everywhere: A Personal Tribute 18.09.2024

In this episode, we pay tribute to the late Edwin Melendez, who passed away on Tuesday, May 15th. Host Jason Larkins revisits his interview with Edwin, offering listeners a chance to hear Edwin's inspiring words once more. Jason then shares personal memories, touching stories, and reflections on Edwin's remarkable life and enduring legacy. Join us as we honor the incredible impact Edwin had on not...

The Real Lessons of the Summit: Why Defeat Can Be Just as Important as Winning 18.09.2024

In this episode, Jason Larkins recaps his trip to The Summit and reflects on Jr Blue's season and weekend, Sr Red's season and weekend, and Sr Black's season and weekend, along with the rollercoaster of emotions all of that came with. Get the Cheer Sync App! - https://cheersyncapp.com/?ref=ltc Get Your Let’s Talk Cheer Podcast T-Shirt Jason's  On-Demand  Coaches Training Videos⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Code of Poi...

Listen to the Let’s Talk Cheer: The Cheerleading Podcast For Parents & Coaches podcast in Replaio

Radio and podcasts in one app - free, with no sign-up. Install today and do not miss the launch

Get it on Google Play

Replaio is not a podcast publisher; show names, artwork and audio belong to their authors and are distributed through public RSS feeds.