• #166: DCC Making the team season 2 episode 4 recap
    Aug 15 2025

    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 concludes with a preview of upcoming guests and discussions.



    Chapters


    00:00 Introduction and Vision Board Reflection

    01:52 Emotional Decisions in Team Dynamics

    05:14 Finding Passion Beyond Dance

    06:22 Celebrating Diversity in Leadership

    08:17 Conversations on Pay and Representation

    09:39 Understanding Individual Choices in Team Dynamics

    12:16 The Importance of Personal Strengths and Learning Styles

    15:08 Navigating Competition and Feedback in Auditions

    18:05 The Emotional Toll of Being Cut from a Team

    18:59 Looking Ahead: Future Opportunities and Growth


    Follow on Instagram @theprofessionalcheerleader and TikTok at @thepro.cheerleader


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    22 mins
  • #165: DCC Making the team season 2 episode 3 recap
    Aug 8 2025

    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 delves into the tier system in training camp, the role of appearance in dance success, and the pressures of legacy and age in auditions. Throughout the episode, Neely emphasizes the significance of personal growth and introspection for dancers as they pursue their dreams.


    Chapters


    00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Episode Overview

    01:53 Key Takeaways from Episode Three

    07:03 The Importance of Mental Toughness and Community

    10:35 The Tier System and Transparency in Judging

    12:27 Critiques and Expressions in Dance

    16:56 The Role of Appearance and Age in Auditions

    21:24 Skill vs. Loyalty in Team Dynamics

    24:27 Reflections on Individual Dancers and Future Potential

    25:12 NEWCHAPTER


    Follow @theprofessionalcheerleader on Instagram and @thepro.cheerleader on TikTok.


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    34 mins
  • #164: DCC Making the team season 2 episode 2 recap
    Jul 31 2025

    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. She reflects on personal experiences, the significance of mentorship, and the balance between professional life and dance commitments. The conversation highlights the cultural impact of cheerleading and the need for self-acceptance and growth in a competitive environment.


    Takeaways

    The NFL cheerleading world is embracing social media trends.

    Leadership can be quiet yet impactful.

    Craving approval from coaches is a common feeling.

    Knowledge of the team is essential for cheerleaders.

    Viral dance trends showcase the influence of cheerleaders.

    Personal growth is a continuous journey for dancers.

    The pressure to be perfect can be overwhelming.

    Mentorship plays a crucial role in cheerleading.

    Balancing dance with professional life is challenging.

    Emotional resilience is key in the dance and cheerleading environment.


    Chapters


    00:00 Introduction to the Imperfect Cheerleader Podcast

    03:14 Recap of Season Two, Episode Two

    08:06 Leadership Dynamics in Cheerleading

    12:19 The Influence of Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders

    14:26 Personal Growth and Transitioning

    17:25 Feedback and Vulnerability in Leadership

    19:55 Mentorship and Support Among Cheerleaders

    23:10 Balancing Dance and Professional Life

    26:59 The Importance of Physical Fitness for Dancers

    30:41 Navigating Perfectionism in Cheerleading

    34:09 Self-Awareness and Improvement

    35:49 Conclusion and Future Episodes


    Follow @theprofessionalcheerleader on Instagram and @thepro.cheerleader on TikTok

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    38 mins
  • #163: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Season 2 recap - Episode 1
    Jul 24 2025

    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, and the impact of age and maturity in the cheerleading world. Throughout the episode, she shares her insights and personal experiences, creating a relatable and empowering narrative for aspiring dancers and cheerleaders.


    Chapters


    00:00 Introduction to the Imperfect Cheerleader Podcast

    00:58 Exploring the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders

    03:22 Opening Insights on Season Two, Episode One

    06:20 Character Development and Team Dynamics

    10:36 Diversity and Representation in Auditions

    14:26 The Importance of Feedback and Growth

    15:40 Recruitment and Background of Dancers

    20:38 The Role of Solos in Auditions

    21:29 Returning Members and Unspoken Rules

    26:04 Personal Stories and Motivations

    27:59 Final Auditions and First Impressions

    31:25 Age and Maturity in Dance

    32:23 Conclusion and Future Episodes

    32:30 Exploring Personal Growth and Imperfection

    Follow @theprofessionalcheerleader on Instagram and @thepro.cheerleader on TikTok


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    34 mins
  • #162: Getting real about a dancer's worth and value with Kevin Hyrams
    Jul 4 2025

    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 for dancers to embrace their identity as brand ambassadors. The discussion also touches on the evolving landscape of pro cheerleading, the need for better pay, and the potential for future trends in the dance industry. In this engaging conversation, Kevin R. Hyrams and Jasmine Neely explore the intersection of dance, branding, and personal success. They discuss the importance of shaping one's image in the dance industry, the value of dance in professional sports, and how success evolves over time. Kevin shares valuable lessons learned from the women in his life and emphasizes the need for authentic support systems to overcome fear and achieve goals. The discussion wraps up with rapid-fire insights, highlighting the significance of authenticity and the power of community in personal and professional growth.


    Chapters

    00:00 The Importance of Resetting and Persistence

    03:56 Navigating Personal Loss and Regret

    05:22 Transitioning from Corporate to Entrepreneurship

    08:28 The Birth of SideReel Global

    11:19 Innovating in Business: Meeting Client Needs

    14:08 The Role of Dancers as Brand Ambassadors

    17:10 Leveraging Innovation in Performance

    19:59 Building Relationships and Networking

    23:03 The Future of Dance and Business Integration

    40:20 NIL Opportunities for Dancers

    42:11 The Value of Dance Teams in Sports

    44:59 Maximizing Brand Ambassadors

    47:44 Innovative Ideas for Dance Teams

    50:47 The Importance of Understanding Dance

    52:48 Redefining Success in Dance

    56:14 Future Trends in Dance and Technology

    01:04:34 The Role of Arts in Society

    01:14:25 Defining Personal Success

    01:22:05 Carrying a Legacy

    01:23:26 Influence of Women in Life

    01:26:32 Lessons from Family

    01:28:21 Support from a Partner

    01:30:45 Empowering Women in Medicine

    01:32:13 Respecting Women and Traditions

    01:34:15 Overcoming Fear of Failure

    01:38:24 Building Authentic Support Networks

    01:40:06 Rapid Fire Insights

    01:51:03 Looking Ahead


    Kevin Hyrams biography

    Kevin R. Hyrams is an innovative business leader and entrepreneur, serving as the Managing

    Director and Founder of Sidereal Global, LLC. Under his visionary leadership, this diversified holding company excels in business development, branding, digital media, and private equity engagement. Kevin is renowned for integrating advanced technologies with strategic foresight, driving sustainable growth and delivering measurable client success. Sidereal Global reflects Kevin’s dedication not only to entrepreneurial excellence but also to creating solutions that connect business innovation with community betterment.

    Kevin’s career is defined by a global perspective and large-scale operational expertise. At Eastman Kodak Company, he managed operations spanning 35 countries across North and South America, crafting market-specific strategies that led to double-digit profit growth.

    At Bank of America, Kevin brought his expertise to the digital landscape as Senior Vice President of Consumer E-Commerce Services. Overseeing platforms serving more than 25 million users, he drove a 17% increase in digital engagement and expanded mobile banking adoption to 2 million users within a year. Kevin’s contributions extend to board service for several organizations, including the Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina, TEGNA/WCNC-TV, and the Urban League of Central Carolinas, where his strategic guidance continues to make a meaningful impact.

    Social media and where to find Kevin:

    @krhyrams

    Sidereal Global everywhere






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    2 hrs
  • #161: The business behind pro cheerleading
    Jun 26 2025

    In this episode, Jasmine discusses the business aspects of cheerleading and dance teams, emphasizing the importance of profitability and audience engagement. She explores the dynamics between coaches and team members, highlighting the need for emotional resilience during auditions and the often impersonal nature of feedback. Jasmine introduces the 'Let Them Theory' as a way to cope with rejection and encourages listeners to focus on personal growth and self-worth beyond team placements.

    Chapters

    00:00 The Business of Cheerleading and Dance Teams

    04:54 Understanding Coaches and Feedback

    08:02 The Let Them Theory and Personal Growth


    Follow @theprofessionalcheerleader on Instagram and @thepro.cheerleader on TikTok

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    13 mins
  • #160: Coach Lain Lee on unlocking performance psychology
    Jun 6 2025

    In this episode, Coach Lain Lee discusses his journey into performance psychology, emphasizing the importance of understanding fear, mental blocks, and the role of discomfort in performance. He shares insights on the impact of pressure on athletes, using Simone Biles' experience as a case study. The conversation also explores cultural attitudes towards rest and recovery, and the distinction between motivation and discipline in achieving success. He discusses the importance of inspiration in training, the toxic aspects of performance-focused cultures in cheer and dance, and the need for emotional intelligence in coaching. He emphasizes the significance of effective communication in building strong teams and explores the relationship between confidence, discomfort, and perfectionism. The discussion also touches on trauma responses and the power of imagination in overcoming fear.


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Performance Psychology Coaching

    04:47 The Journey from Cheerleading to Coaching

    07:39 Understanding Mental Blocks and Their Misconceptions

    10:47 The Science Behind Memory and Mental Blocks

    13:55 The Role of Discomfort in Performance

    16:48 The Impact of Judgment on Performers

    19:48 Navigating Auditions and Performance Anxiety

    22:36 Childhood Trauma and Its Effects on Performance

    25:42 The Importance of Processing Trauma

    28:44 The Consequences of Ignoring Mental Health in Sports

    31:42 The Case of Simone Biles and Mental Health Awareness

    36:51 Understanding Anxiety and Dorsal Vagal Shutdown

    40:34 The Impact of Motivation Culture

    42:12 The Grind Culture and Its Consequences

    50:35 The Toxicity in Cheer and Dance Culture

    57:27 Building Effective Teams Through Vulnerability

    01:02:30 Confidence: Natural vs. Manufactured

    01:07:27 Building Confidence Through Discomfort

    01:12:32 The Role of Perfectionism in Performance

    01:17:30 Understanding Anxiety and Perfectionism

    01:21:56 Responding to Trauma and Discomfort

    01:26:08 The Power of Imagination and Reality

    01:28:43 Rapid Fire Insights and Reflections


    Find Coach Lain @coachlain everywhere!

    Follow @theprofessionalcheerleader for pro dance and cheer tips!


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    1 hr and 35 mins
  • #159: Former NBA dancer Ana Ogbueze shares lessons learned and how to be a strategic dancer
    May 24 2025

    Ana Ogbueze will be at the Pro dance intensive on June 7! Sign up now: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1357969396019?aff=oddtdtcreator

    Summary

    In this episode of the Imperfect Cheerleader podcast, Ana Ogbueze shares her journey from being an NBA dancer to becoming a successful dance entrepreneur. She discusses the importance of commitment, professionalism, and the mindset required to succeed in the dance industry. Ana reflects on her experiences with adversity, the distinct roles of choreographers and teachers, and the evolution of dance teams. She emphasizes the significance of character and attitude in auditions and performances, and shares insights about her new opportunities with Choreography Pros. In this conversation, Jasmine Neely discusses her journey in the dance industry, emphasizing the importance of faith, community, and the evolution of dance opportunities in Charlotte. She shares her experiences transitioning from a performer to a producer, her passion for creating spaces for dancers, and her vision for the future of dance in the community. The conversation highlights the significance of embracing imperfection and authenticity in both personal and professional growth.


    Chapters

    00:00 Celebrating Milestones and New Beginnings

    09:28 From NBA Dancer to Entrepreneur

    12:17 Defining Professionalism in Dance

    15:19 Overcoming Adversity in Dance

    18:11 The Art of Choreography vs. Teaching

    21:07 The Journey of a Dance Student

    24:12 Growing Up in Dance

    27:03 The Transition to Professional Dance

    29:48 Memorable Moments as a Lady Cat

    33:01 Support and Understanding from Family

    35:29 Lessons Learned in Dance

    47:32 Mindset and Preparation for Auditions

    55:14 The Importance of Character in Auditions

    01:01:16 Strategic Auditioning: Standing Out in a Competitive Field

    01:07:56 Faith and Career: The Journey of Entrepreneurship

    01:16:48 The Role of Faith in Personal Growth

    01:26:35 Project Full Out: Empowering Dancers Through Opportunities

    01:31:16 Empowering Dancers Through Opportunities

    01:34:07 The Future of Dance in Charlotte

    01:37:15 Inspiration and Community Impact

    01:38:08 Rapid Fire Fun and Personal Insights

    01:51:48 Memorable Performances and Advice

    02:04:33 Connecting with the Audience


    Find Ana on all platforms: @AnaOhBoyZee @ncdancedistrict

    Follow @theprofessionalcheerleader on Instagram and @thepro.cheerleader on TikTok for more pro dance and pro cheer tips.

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    2 hrs and 7 mins