The (Im)Perfect Cheerleader Podcast

The Role of Hormonal Health and Training Balance in Female Athletes with Allison Yamamoto Discover how hormonal health impacts athletic performance, recovery, and longevity. Join Jasmine Neely as she interviews sports nutritionist and founder of Koa Athletic Health, Allison Yamamoto, about managing training, nutrition, and mental health for women in aesthetic sports. Allison's Bio Allison Yama...

It's been a while since we caught up, so I am updating you on my life and what I've been up to! I include my return to the Honey Bees, reflect on auditions, discuss new projects, podcasts, and thoughts on social media's impact on athletes and dancers. Main topics include: Jasmine’s return to the Honeybees for a second season Balancing fun and focus during cheerleading auditions Navigat...

We close out the TopCats Eras Series with the most recently retired TopCats, Trica Johnson and Brandi Hopson (I'm so sad it's over). These ladies share their inspiring journeys, challenges faced, and the lessons learned along the way. This episode offers both motivational stories and practical insights for aspiring pro cheerleaders and anyone chasing big dreams. Plus, you'll get a lot...

Ever wondered why we obsess over the lives of iconic stars like Michael Jackson? Let’s dive deep into the mystery. 🤔 After watching the new Michael Jackson biopic, I found myself lost in thoughts about his life. He was such a massive star, but what about his personal struggles? The film highlights his complex relationship with his father, Joe Jackson, and how it shaped him. It made me reflect on...

Join us as we celebrate three decades of TopCats cheerleading with legendary members Kamilah McCray and Annalise Coleman who both cheered during the mid 2010s and early 2020s eras. This episode highlights their journeys, memorable moments, and the impact of being part of the TopCats organization. Timestamps:00:00 - Welcome and introduction to the TopCats 30-year anniversary series 00:28 - Meet Ann...

Summary Join Jasmine Neely as she interviews Tiffany Pittman and Macey Butler, two former TopCats, as they share their experiences, memorable moments like Super Bowl 50, and life after pro cheerleading. Discover insights into dedication, community, and embracing imperfection in this inspiring episode. Chapters 00:00 Celebrating 30 Years of the TopCats 02:37 Personal Journeys: From Aspiring Dancers...

Celebrating 30 Years of the TopCats with stories and memories from Nicole and Denise! Summary Former TopCats Nicole Smith (my former coach!) and Denise Porter share their 30-year journey with the team, the evolution of pro cheerleading from the 90s to now, and behind-the-scenes stories from game day and community involvement. Join us as we explore the transformative experiences, behind-the-scenes...

Summary This episode features Tara Ryan and Kelli Triplett, two former TopCats cheerleaders, sharing their inspiring journeys, audition stories, team dynamics, and lessons learned from the 30-year cheerleading legacy. Discover how perseverance, support, and passion can lead to extraordinary achievements in the world of NFL cheerleading. In this interview, former TopCats share their unforgettable e...

In this episode I am sharing my journey of being an NBA dancer, embracing age, overcoming mental blocks, and balancing faith with my passion for dance in the high-pressure world of NBA dancing. I share insights into resilience, self-confidence, and finding purpose at every stage of life. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction: Why knowing about NBA dance life matters 00:33 - Being an older dancer: Wisdo...

Summary In this episode of the ImPerfect Cheerleader podcast, host Jasmine Neely engages with former TopCats DaWanda Bittle and Felicia Dawson, celebrating their experiences and achievements during their tenures with the pro cheerleading squad. They share personal stories, lessons learned, memorable moments, and insights into the audition process, fitness expectations, and the camaraderie that def...

In this special episode of the Imperfect Cheerleader podcast, we celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Top Cats, the cheerleading squad for the Carolina Panthers. Host Jasmine Neely is joined by two distinguished members of the team, Shannon McClattie and Tammy Tucci, who share their inspiring journeys and unforgettable experiences as TopCats. Their stories not only highlight the milestones of the...

Summary This episode explores the rich history and behind-the-scenes stories of the TopCats cheerleading squad, featuring pioneers Leslie Matz and Kimberly Millar. Discover how the iconic uniforms, recruitment strategies, and team dynamics were crafted to build a legacy of excellence and diversity. Join Leslie Matz and Kimberly Pixton Millar as they share their experiences leading the TopCats, the...

In this engaging conversation, Mariel Swan and Whitney Dillon share their journey of friendship and entrepreneurship. They discuss the importance of authentic relationships, the challenges of transitioning from cheerleading to business, and how their artistic backgrounds shaped their identities. The duo emphasizes the role of faith in maintaining their bond and navigating life's ups and downs,...

In this episode of the Imperfect Cheerleader Podcast, host Jasmine Neely welcomes mental performance coach Gary Chupik, who specializes in helping athletes unlock their potential. Gary discusses the key traits that make someone a great candidate for coaching, emphasizing the importance of a growth mindset and the willingness to experiment with oneself. He shares insights into the common mental blo...

Jada Samuel is an author, marketing-communications professional and the founder of a girl’s nonprofit mentoring organization called iShapeMe. In 2023, she became the oldest and only the 4th Black woman to win the title of Miss South Carolina. Now, she’s a pageant coach and professional speaker sharing messages about confidence, mentorship and sisterhood. In this engaging conversation, Miss South C...

I caught up with Look Love Beauty Babes Sabrina and Charisse! We talk all things pro cheer/pro dance. My past experience as an NFL Cheerleader with the Panthers' Topcats and my current role as an NBA dancer with the Honeybees. We also get into Taylor Swift and my personal research project on why she's such a big superstar. This episode was so fun! Go check them out here at Look Love Beauty...

I sat down with sports podcaster Ayokunle Adewuya to talk all things pro cheer, pro dance, advice, NIL deals and more! Go follow him on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rayodfilms/videos Follow me on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVUfNIPC6PxR4_Xxwd2Imdg Follow me on Instagram: @theprofessionalcheerleader Follow me for TikTok fun: thepro.cheerleader Next dance class: https://www.eventb...

In this final episode recap of the DCC series, host Jasmine Neely reflects on the journey of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, discussing key moments such as Victoria's move to New York, Chandi's controversial decisions, and the emotional weight of the last game. The episode highlights personal growth, the importance of support systems, and the unique bonds formed through shared experiences...

Summary In this episode of the Imperfect Cheerleader podcast, host Jasmine Neely delves into the complexities of professional dance, particularly within the context of cheerleading. She discusses the mental health challenges faced by dancers, the importance of communication within teams, and the ongoing debate about fair compensation for their work. Jasmine emphasizes the need for empathy and unde...

Summary In this episode of the Imperfect Cheerleader podcast, host Jasmine Neely recaps Season 2 Episode 5 of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. She engages with listeners, answering questions about dance training and age limits for auditions. The episode delves into the emotional journey of team announcements, the perks of being a DCC, and the ongoing discussions about pay and sponsorships. Jasmine...

Summary In 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 conc...

Summary In 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 delv...

Summary In 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...

Summary In 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, a...

Summary In 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...