The Cheer Mom Podcast

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,...

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 Aut...

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.c...

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 cu...

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 co...

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...

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-...

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 goi...

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...

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...

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 de...

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...

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 v...

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 t...

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 an...

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 provi...

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...

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 i...

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for in...

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 offer...

Cheer requires a high level of time, finances, and sacrifices not just from the athlete, but from the people in his or her life. Here are the details from this episode: With the upcoming cheer season in mind, I HIGHLY suggest having discussions about team placements, setting personal goals, and considering what sacrifices are acceptable for cheerleading with your athlete and among your family. Fin...

In this episode of the Cheer Mom podcast, Kristen interviews Abby from Rebel Athletic. They discuss the recent Rebel Couture trip to Beijing and the incredible experiences they had there. They also talk about the upcoming Rebel Casting Call and what it takes to be Casting Call-ready. They highlight the importance of authenticity, confidence, and building relationships within the Rebel community. T...

Key takeaways: The tryout season in cheerleading can be a stressful and vulnerable time for athletes and their families. Trying out at two different cheer gyms can have various motivations, including finding a better fit, experiencing different cultures, or seeking feedback from multiple sources. It is important to consider the values, goals, and long-term lessons being taught when making decision...

While I hope your athlete never gets injured, it's important to be as best prepared as we can to support our kids through injury. In this episode, I talk with two other cheer moms whose athletes suffered injuries that changed their season. We talk about our mama hearts, how we support our athletes, and even the good that can come out of a tough situation. Sponsor: Visit getpomi.com/podcast to lear...

Mathew Lunsford has been in the sports marketing scene for over a decade; negotiating brand deals for athletes, one even at $1 million dollars. He has recently become part of the cheer scene and has noticed huge gaps in how - or even if - cheer athletes get paid.  In this episode, Mat and I talk about how he intends to change that.  Learn more about CHEER FARE : a marketplace that connects cheerle...