In this episode of Champ Chat, hosts Celia Kiogima and Amber Sullivan welcome Kim Kaye to discuss her journey in the cheerleading world. They explore the purpose behind Champion Cheerleading, the importance of community, and the impact of purposeful coaching. Kim shares her experiences, challenges, and the evolution of this sport over the years; emphasizing that it’s about more than just winning—it’s about empowering individuals and creating lasting connections.
The conversation also touches on the future and the legacy that Champion Cheerleading aims to uphold. They dive into discussion on transitioning leadership within Champion, the emotional weight of change, and the incredible power of divine timing.

This week on Champ Chat, Celia steps up to the mic solo for a raw, reflective episode from her family vacation in northern Michigan. With the originally planned guest postponed, she takes the opportunity to speak directly from the heart—about transition, identity, and the enduring impact of coaching.

Celia shares some of the most meaningful quotes she’s ever sent to her athletes, unpacking the stories and emotions behind them. She reflects on the bittersweet journey of stepping away from daily coaching, the weight of words in big and small moments, and what it means to lead with both grit and grace. It’s a love letter to the sport, to the athletes who shape us, and to every coach who’s ever questioned if their work makes a difference.

Because it does.

In this heartfelt episode of Champ Chat, Celia and Carter Kiogima explore what it really takes to feel supported in the cheer and stunt world -- from the gym to the home front. Together, they reflect on the many forms of support coaches and athletes need to thrive, including behind-the-scenes administrative champions, open-door coaching philosophies, and what it means to self-reflect and grow. They open up about the shift in their own dynamic as Carter steps away from coaching to prioritize family, and how their partnership continues to anchor their work. It’s a raw, emotional, and ultimately uplifting conversation about knowing your limits, asking for help, and finding your “cheer person” -- in sport and in life.

Stay tuned until the end for a special shout-out tradition and a powerful teaser for next week’s episode on mental health in athletics.