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The (Im)Perfect Cheerleader Podcast

The (Im)Perfect Cheerleader Podcast

By Jasmine Neely

This podcast is for aspiring, current and former professional cheerleaders and dancers. We talk all things professional cheerleading and dancing at the highest level. We give helpful tips, share insightful stories, give actionable steps and share the true beauty of the sport. If you want to be on the sidelines of an NFL, NBA or NHL game, cheering on the team then this is the podcast for you!
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#124: Should you audition for multiple teams at the same time?!

The (Im)Perfect Cheerleader Podcast Apr 19, 2024

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14:51
#124: Should you audition for multiple teams at the same time?!

#124: Should you audition for multiple teams at the same time?!

What if you want to be on a team so bad, that you'll audition for more than one team to increase your chances?

What are the pros and what are the cons?

We're covering it on this episode. Enjoy!

Apr 19, 202414:51
#123: Career influencer, Mia Williams on self-worth, interview tips and more!
Apr 04, 202401:14:35
#122: When an injury sets you back, what should you do?

#122: When an injury sets you back, what should you do?

Injuries suck, they just do.

In this episode, I talk about what you can do during the healing process to come back even stronger and stay motivated.

Like this episode, leave a review and share with a friend!

Stay tuned for more great episodes and guests!

Mar 28, 202414:05
#121: Choreographer Alisha Dixon talks self talk, going after your dreams and more!

#121: Choreographer Alisha Dixon talks self talk, going after your dreams and more!

Alisha was born and raised in Upstate New York where she trained competitively in dance (all styles), gymnastics (level 8), cheerleading (Junior Varsity and Varsity), film/television (TVI Studios, NY/ L.A), and Theater. She is the Founder and Artistic Director of LDC (Lynchburg Dance Connection) of Lynchburg, Virginia, Charlotte, North Carolina, and Upstate New York and is the current leader of LDC CLT Commercial Dance Crew and LDC Jrs. She is a current resident of Charlotte and teaches Commercial Dance weekly at NC Dance District and LDCCLT. She spent her college years as a member, choreographer, and Captain of D-trex Dance Crew (hip hop). After college, she relocated to L.A. to continue her training in Hip Hop and Street jazz with a focus in the Commercial Dance Industry. Internationally, she has trained in Thailand, the Philippines, London, and China while making her international teaching debut in the Philippines. She has recently been seen dancing back-up for Vietnamese Pop Artist Andy Quach and Minh Tuyet, LaKea Stokes, "Walking on Water" music video, is the current choreographer for the annual Miss Virginia Volunteer Pageant, Project Full Out (PFO), and is also on Faculty at Expressions Dance Competition and Convention, The Vault, and Endless Talent. Her most recent Theater choreography credits include IN THE HEIGHTS, LEGALLY BLONDE JR., HAIRSPRAY and will be choreographing for WEST SIDE STORY this fall. Alisha trains dancers of all ages throughout the East Coast who are wanting to focus and network in the Commercial Dance Industry including training past and present NBA and NFL dancers. Aside from training dancers, Alisha works with aspiring choreographers and helps them launch their careers. You can also find her choreography on dance competition stages throughout the U.S! Unity in the dance community with a focus on the person and purpose before the performer is her passion.


Follow Alisha on Instagram and DM her to take class! @a1ishadixon @ldcclt @lynchburgdanceconnection

Mar 21, 202401:25:08
#120: Why musicality plus counts makes you a better dancer

#120: Why musicality plus counts makes you a better dancer

Counts or musicality?

Having both can make you a dynamic dancer, coachable and adaptable to any choreographer or class.

Listen in to hear how important it is to count to the music and feel into the music.

Mar 15, 202408:47
#119: Change your mindset about rejection by doing this

#119: Change your mindset about rejection by doing this

Ever been rejected? Instead of those thoughts of "not enoughness," think about this. Listen for more.

Feb 29, 202412:29
#118: Content creator, fitness coach and former NFL Cheerleader, Cori Hurm joins ICP

#118: Content creator, fitness coach and former NFL Cheerleader, Cori Hurm joins ICP

My former teammate Cori Hurm came on the podcast to talk about her pro cheer journey, fitness, life as a content creator and how to stay disciplined in your nutrition routine.


We even go deeper into some topics that may be surprising and she reveals when she feels the most confident.


Enjoy this episode with Cori.

Follow Cori at @coriraefit on Instagram, YouTube and TikTok

Feb 19, 202458:22
#117: 4 reasons why you aren't making the team

#117: 4 reasons why you aren't making the team

On this episode we're talking about why you are not making it and what to do about it.

Don't forget to sign up for Jas and Janel's Pro Bootcamp until Feb. 21.

https://becomingprocheerleader.lpages.co/jjprobootcamp

Feb 09, 202414:54
#116: The judges are rooting for you

#116: The judges are rooting for you

Even if you don't think it, know that the judges do have your back when you are auditioning.

In this episode we talk about this mindset shift in order to get you through your audition with confidence.

Jas and Janel's Pro Bootcamp: https://becomingprocheerleader.lpages.co/jjprobootcamp

Feb 01, 202414:26
#115: My mom talks about her experience as a dance mom

#115: My mom talks about her experience as a dance mom

Everyone, I am so pumped to have the one and only, the GOAT, my mom (Veronica Neely), on the podcast.

My mom is the reason why I fell in love with dancing and performing and she is on this week to talk about the things she went through during all the years of supporting me through dance, how she did it, what she learned and the challenges she faced.

Let's just say she's a legend, and I am extremely grateful to have her as a mom and the biggest supporter in my life.

Enjoy!

Jan 25, 202455:38
#114: How to get past where you are placed in formations

#114: How to get past where you are placed in formations

Everyone wants to be seen, right?

How do we get over where we are placed in a formation or during an audition.

Sign up for Jas and Janel's Pro Bootcamp and use the code JJPRO20 for 20% off until January, 19, 2024.

https://becomingprocheerleader.lpages.co/jjprobootcamp

Jan 18, 202417:27
#113: What era are you in your dance journey?

#113: What era are you in your dance journey?

We all have our eras, but what era are you in dance?

Listen in to find out how to leverage your era in 2024!

Jan 06, 202411:60
#112: How to have more energy when performing

#112: How to have more energy when performing

Here's the thing, when I take on private clients or teach a class, I'm always wanting more from majority of the dancers I work with.

More energy, in particular.

As a result, I'm often asked "How do I have more energy?"

Listen in to find out!

Dec 29, 202312:50
#111: Top 3 things to avoid for the best nutritional health

#111: Top 3 things to avoid for the best nutritional health

Need some nutritional guidance? I know we all do.

It's hard during the holidays to stay on track with your nutrition, but as you look forward to getting on track again, there are three major things you should avoid and keep in mind when making those choices.

Listen now, and if it's helped you, leave a review or send to a friend!

Dec 22, 202313:30
#110: This is why you aren't cut out for pro cheer

#110: This is why you aren't cut out for pro cheer

Ever wonder if you are made for pro cheer and dance?

Listen to hear why some people may not be cut out for this life.

Dec 15, 202315:03
#109: How to gain self respect

#109: How to gain self respect

Jasmine reveals how you have to show up for yourself to gain self respect and get the things you want. Enjoy!

Leave a review, like or share with a friend if this helped you.

Dec 07, 202315:35
#108: Practicing gratitude

#108: Practicing gratitude

Jasmine wishes everyone a happy thanksgiving holiday and shares tips on how to be thankful for all that you have even in the dark times.

Becoming The Professional Cheerleader course is 30% off for only a few days. Sign up here: https://theprofessionalcheerleadercourse.thinkific.com/courses/becoming-the-professional-cheerleader

Nov 23, 202309:17
#107: The key to being great at interviews

#107: The key to being great at interviews

Learn about the best way to get great at interviews!

Join Becoming The Professional Cheerleader course and community: https://becomingprocheerleader.lpages.co/btpcspage/

Nov 18, 202311:22
#106: The differences between auditioning as a rookie vs. a veteran

#106: The differences between auditioning as a rookie vs. a veteran

Auditioning as a potential rookie can be very different than when you are trying to make it for another season.

There are pros and cons to both, so in this episode we talk about how to take advantage of the pros and be aware of the cons.

Enjoy!

Nov 11, 202318:07
#105: The 4 characteristics every pro cheerleader/dancer should have

#105: The 4 characteristics every pro cheerleader/dancer should have

If you want to be a pro cheerleader/dancer then you should start acting like it, today!

Listen in as I describe the four qualities every pro dancer has or should have,

Like this episode and want more? Leave a rating and review under Apple podcasts. It's easy., and you can do it on your phone. Just go this podcast series and scroll down to the bottom and you'll see "Write a review."

I greatly appreciate it!

Nov 03, 202311:06
#104: CLIENT STORIES: Current NFL Cheerleader Ariel Lee

#104: CLIENT STORIES: Current NFL Cheerleader Ariel Lee

Current NFL cheerleader, Ariel Lee is on the podcast to talk about her journey to pro and the hurdles she faced while chasing her dream.

Ariel is a current TopCat for the Carolina Panthers and 2023 marks her rookie season.

She's also a past client of mine who I've had the joy of training. She gets into her audition journey to pro on this episode and how training consistently helped her stay accountable.

Enjoy!

Oct 26, 202358:41
#103: 4 things you need to be doing this fall for your upcoming audition

#103: 4 things you need to be doing this fall for your upcoming audition

The time is now ladies, so here's what you should be doing to prepare for your upcoming auditions in the winter and spring-time.

Listen in to find out what they are.

Oct 20, 202314:12
#102: Dance trends I'm loving from NFL pro cheer teams in 2023

#102: Dance trends I'm loving from NFL pro cheer teams in 2023

Trends seem to pop up out of nowhere on social media, especially the dance ones.

In lieu of football season, I figured I share what trends I am seeing from NFL cheerleaders. There are a few pro teams that I follow that are doing cool things to show off their brand and reputation and I am loving all of it!

Listen in to hear what trends I am loving and maybe get some inspo to do them yourself!

Oct 13, 202309:21
#101: What the Barbie movie teaches us about life as a pro cheerleader

#101: What the Barbie movie teaches us about life as a pro cheerleader

You may know by now that I am obsessed with all the craze that is the Barbie movie! The movie will have you crying, laughing, dancing and going through a rollercoaster of emotions. And you may even take away some themes of feminism and unrealistic standards of women in society. It gets deep!

The themes in the movie mimic some themes of pro cheerleaders and how trying to perfect just isn't sustainable in the real world (not Barbieland of course).

Listen in and see how these themes show up in the pro cheer and dance world.

And if you've seen the movie, head over to my Instagram and let me know what you thought of it!

Oct 06, 202322:49
#100: Celebrating 100 Episodes of The (Im)Perfect Cheerleader!
Sep 28, 202348:05
#99: What is your personal brand and why it's important

#99: What is your personal brand and why it's important

Ever think about what people say about you when you're not in the room?

Well my friend, that is your personal brand.

Listen in to find out what makes your personal brand how you can have a kick ass personal brand to set you up for success in your pro dance journey.

Sign up for dance class and happy hour on the 29th: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/happy-hour-dance-class-throwback-theme-with-trivia-tickets-713124563767?aff=oddtdtcreator

Sep 22, 202314:13
#98: Three ways to build your endurance and help with stamina as a dancer

#98: Three ways to build your endurance and help with stamina as a dancer

Find yourself getting winded easily after a dance? This episode is designed to help you build your endurance as a dancer.

Share with a friend, leave a review or BOTH! Either way, I appreciate the support and always enjoy helping you.

Sep 15, 202314:40
#97: NBA vs. NFL? What are the differences for pro cheerleaders?

#97: NBA vs. NFL? What are the differences for pro cheerleaders?

Can't decide between auditioning for an NFL or NBA team? Listen to this episode as we discuss what to consider for both leagues as a dancer/cheerleader.

Like this episode? Go ahead and leave a review on Apple Podcasts!

Sep 08, 202320:21
#96: Kristen Downard discusses how she traveled to audition and then moved to join the Arizona Cardinals pro cheer team

#96: Kristen Downard discusses how she traveled to audition and then moved to join the Arizona Cardinals pro cheer team

In the previous episode I gave you some advice on what to consider before traveling far to audition for a pro cheer team and this week my former teammate Kristen Downard is talking to us through this real life scenario and how she navigated the whirlwind of moving from east to west.

How did she elicit help? Did her friends and family support? How did she pay for it? How did she find a new job? We talk about it all.

Follow Kristen on Instagram @kriscrossapplesauce and @kristenonthefield and you can also find her on TikTok @kriscrossapplesauce

Aug 31, 202301:04:41
#95: Things to consider before moving to audition

#95: Things to consider before moving to audition

On this week's podcast episode we talk about all of the things you should consider before packing up to move to a different city or state to audition for a team.

It's a huge decision, so what factors are at play.

Listen in to find out.

Aug 25, 202317:25
#94: What's been inspiring me lately

#94: What's been inspiring me lately

I've really been inspired by a lot recently and I want you to listen to a few key people and things I'm inspired by in this episode.

I hope it inspires you to take some action toward your dreams today.

Share this podcast with a friend, leave a rating and review and subscribe to get new content each week.

Love ya, mean it,

Jasmine

Aug 19, 202310:17
#93: VIDEO episode with former Eagles Cheerleader, Shardae Swoope

#93: VIDEO episode with former Eagles Cheerleader, Shardae Swoope

Shardae shares her insights, knowledge and tips on pushing through rejection and facing adversity head-on by not giving up on your dreams.

Listen to her inspiring story and share it with a friend.

Aug 15, 202348:14
#93: Former Eagles cheerleader Shardae Swoope talks persistence and visualization

#93: Former Eagles cheerleader Shardae Swoope talks persistence and visualization

We have former Philadelphia Eagles cheerleader, Shardae Swoope on the ImPerfect Cheerleader. She’s so inspiring and will be dropping gems during this episode. If you need to hear about staying persistent, staying in it and not giving up despite adversity then listen to this episode . 

You can find Shardae @Shar.swoope on Instagram and TikTok. On  LinkedIn she’s Shardae Swoope. 

If you liked this episode and think it will help a friend send it to them. If it's easier, you can leave a review as well!

Have a wonderful day!



Aug 11, 202352:37
#92: Mini Series Episode 7: Dealing with rejection and embracing growth

#92: Mini Series Episode 7: Dealing with rejection and embracing growth

This is the last episode of the mini series on Mastering your audition. I hope you've been able to listen to all seven episodes and have received the help you need to be successful in your audition.

The goal of this episode is to understand that rejection or success is inevitable in this process, but how do you deal with both? Each can scare us in different ways.

By the way: The Professional Cheerleader Membership will be starting soon. Take action on your future and sign up here! https://becomingprocheerleader.lpages.co/the-professional-cheerleader-membership-join-now

Aug 04, 202318:09
#91: Mini Series Episode 6: Navigating the interview and final rounds of auditions

#91: Mini Series Episode 6: Navigating the interview and final rounds of auditions

If you are interested in the membership click this link. Each month will be a special theme. It's going to be so much fun! https://becomingprocheerleader.lpages.co/the-professional-cheerleader-membership-join-now

Registration will wrap up soon! Ask me about it on Instagram @theprofessionalcheerleader or theprofessionalcheerleader@gmail.com.

This episode is all about how to navigate and make it to final rounds of the audition process.

Enjoy listening and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode!

Love ya!

Jul 28, 202312:49
#90: Mini Series Episode 5: Nailing the audition

#90: Mini Series Episode 5: Nailing the audition

If you are interested in the membership click this link! https://becomingprocheerleader.lpages.co/the-professional-cheerleader-membership-join-now

This episode is all about how to understand the structure and components of your audition, learning choreography efficiently, standing out in groups and advice on how to shine in freestyle/improvisation sections.

Enjoy listening and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode!

Jul 20, 202312:26
#89: TPC Membership and Episode 4 in Mini Series: Crafting your audition package

#89: TPC Membership and Episode 4 in Mini Series: Crafting your audition package

Interested in The Professional Cheerleader Membership? Sign up here today until the beginning of August: https://becomingprocheerleader.lpages.co/the-professional-cheerleader-membership-join-now/

This episode is all about crafting your audition package, what's included and how to prepare your solo to bring out the best in you.

Have questions? Send me a note at vip@theprofessionalcheerleader.com.

Jul 14, 202319:23
#88: Mini Series Episode 3 on perfecting your dance technique

#88: Mini Series Episode 3 on perfecting your dance technique

This is the third episode in our mini series on how to master your audition.

We are talking all things dance technique in this episode, so enjoy!

Send to a friend and/or leave a review if this episode or any episodes have helped you.

Be on the lookout for more episodes in this 7-episode series!

Jul 06, 202312:21
#87: MINI Series Episode 2 on Physical and Mental Stability

#87: MINI Series Episode 2 on Physical and Mental Stability

It's episode 2 of the 7-part mini series on mastering your audition. In this episode we're diving into how to prepare physically and mentally for your audition.

Master It!

Love it? Leave a review or send to a friend.

Jun 29, 202314:25
#86: MINI Series on Mastering the Audition! Episode 1

#86: MINI Series on Mastering the Audition! Episode 1

I am introducing a 7-part mini series on how to master your audition! In this first episode we're talking about understanding the game of auditions.

If you like this episode or any episode, please leave a review and feel free to screenshot and tag @theprofessionalcheerleader in your Instagram stories!

Check back in next week for episode 2 on physical and mental health.

Happy listening!

Jun 22, 202310:34
#85: Going after your dreams with minimal family support

#85: Going after your dreams with minimal family support

Learn how you can navigate minimal support from family and friends as you achieve your pro cheer and dance dreams.


Leave a rating and review if you loved this or any other episodes!


Share with a friend it might help.

Jun 15, 202313:42
#84: Interview tips you need for auditions

#84: Interview tips you need for auditions

Listen in as Jasmine explains what interview tips you need for your upcoming audition.

Jun 08, 202308:45
#83: Is pro cheer and dance political?

#83: Is pro cheer and dance political?

When I think of this question I think of Abby Lee Miller's infamous pyramid on the show Dance Moms, but is pro cheer and dance sort of like this?

Let's dig in to see why this industry can be political especially during the audition process.

If you liked this episode, leave a 5-star review, so we can keep bringing great topics and guests your way.

Jun 01, 202315:36
#82: Takeaways from Jas' Las Vegas Audition

#82: Takeaways from Jas' Las Vegas Audition

I know what it's like to work so hard for something and it not end up working out the way you had hoped.

Let me tell you about a recent audition I went through in Vegas and what I learned during and after the process.

Enjoy this vulnerable moment from Jasmine as she walks you through her first hand experience of going through round by round to finals and the team reveal.

May 25, 202322:12
#81: Five ways to instantly boost your confidence

#81: Five ways to instantly boost your confidence

Need a confidence booster? Listen to this episode and explore easy things you can do to boost your confidence.

May 05, 202313:06
#80: Do this to help you remember choreo

#80: Do this to help you remember choreo

Listen in for the one thing you can do to help you retain choreography.

Apr 27, 202308:04
#79: Some of y'all don't want to be successful...

#79: Some of y'all don't want to be successful...

I am frustrated and fed-up with clients who keep making excuses for not living their dreams. Listen in to hear some tough love on podcast episode 79 today.


Apr 13, 202313:03
#78: My top 5 audition tips

#78: My top 5 audition tips

Get out your notebooks. Auditions are in full swing! Get 5 killer tips in this episode and apply them during your audition. Thank me later :)

Good luck to everyone auditioning this season and every season!

For more tips head over to Instagram: @theprofessionalcheerleader

Apr 06, 202310:06
#77: Why most people are second-day learners for learning choreography

#77: Why most people are second-day learners for learning choreography

Listen in on why most people are second-day learners when it comes to learning choreo. Is that you?

Make sure to give me a follow on Instagram @theprofessionalcheerleader and @thepro.cheerleader on Tik Tok.

Mar 30, 202313:07
#76: What to expect at your audition. What I wish I knew

#76: What to expect at your audition. What I wish I knew

What should you expect going into your audition? Listen in to find out!


Sign up for my Tuesday in-person and virtual classes!

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-professional-cheerleader-dance-technique-tuesdays-registration-594889399207?aff=erelexpmlt


Mar 23, 202316:57