Épisodes

  • #173: Gary Chupik on mental performance, regaining confidence and more
    Jan 22 2026

    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 blocks athletes face, particularly around confidence, and how these can be addressed through targeted coaching sessions. Gary highlights that confidence is crucial for performance and explains how athletes can regain it by focusing on their strengths and preparing adequately for their performances.

    The conversation delves into the emotional aspects of performance, with Gary sharing a transformative story about a young hockey player who regained his confidence by focusing on his unique strengths. He emphasizes the importance of self-belief and how it can be nurtured through preparation and positive reinforcement. The episode also touches on the significance of visualization techniques in mental performance, encouraging athletes to engage all their senses to enhance their confidence and performance. Gary concludes by offering a free mental performance assessment to listeners, showcasing his commitment to helping others achieve their best.

    Follow Gary @elitemindset on Instagram

    • Visit https://bit.ly/49JgDsJ to get your mental performance assessment. Use discount code: ELITE100

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


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Mental Performance Coaching

    00:40 Identifying Candidates for Coaching

    01:28 Understanding Mental Blocks and Confidence

    03:35 The Nature of Confidence Loss

    05:06 Building Confidence Through Preparation

    06:06 Transformation Stories in Coaching

    09:47 The Power of Focusing on Strengths

    11:06 Belief and Self-Confidence

    12:18 The Importance of External Belief

    14:31 The Impact of Positive Reinforcement

    16:16 Fueling Motivation: Positive vs. Negative

    17:17 Transitioning from Pastoral Work to Coaching

    19:48 Challenges of Being a Pastor

    22:32 Reflections on Pastoral Work

    23:57 The Smartness of Quitting

    24:37 The Art of Quitting: Knowing When to Let Go

    29:30 Mental Performance: Visualization Techniques for Success

    34:30 Understanding Emotional Expression: Men vs. Women

    37:30 Traits of High Performers: Resilience and Focus

    40:13 Gary's New Initiative: The Mental Performance Assessment



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    46 min
  • #172: Miss South Carolina's Jada Samuel on confidence, vulnerability, and staying true to yourself
    Dec 4 2025

    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 Carolina, Jada Samuel, shares her insights on fashion, confidence, and the journey of pageantry. She discusses the importance of authenticity, the challenges of public speaking, and the impact of vulnerability in a world that often demands perfection. Jada emphasizes the significance of surrounding oneself with supportive individuals and the necessity of self-reflection and growth through adversity. Her journey through multiple pageant competitions highlights the importance of persistence and trusting the process, ultimately leading to her success. In this engaging conversation, Jada Samuel shares her journey through pageantry, self-care, and the importance of authenticity. She discusses the emotional challenges faced during her reign as Miss South Carolina, the significance of mentorship, and the evolving landscape of pageantry. Jada emphasizes the need for self-acceptance and the value of genuine connections, while also addressing the practical aspects of competing, including costs and preparation. Her insights into personal growth, community service, and inspiring the next generation through her nonprofit and children's book highlight her commitment to empowering young women.

    Find Jada here:

    https://www.instagram.com/jadamsamuel/ https://www.facebook.com/JadaMSamuel/ https://www.tiktok.com/@jadamsamuelhttps://www.instagram.com/positionedtowin/ https://www.positionedtowin.co/links Find more about pro dance @theprofessionalcheerleader on Instagram


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    1 h et 35 min
  • #171: Look Love Babes Sabrina and Charisse
    Oct 13 2025

    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

    Make sure to follow me on Instagram @theprofessionalcheerleader and on TikTok @thepro.cheerleader.

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    1 h et 5 min
  • #170: Catch me on Ayo Adewuya's sports podcast talking NFL cheer, NBA dance and more!
    Sep 25 2025

    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.eventbrite.com/e/1736197275789?aff=oddtdtcreator


    Chapters:

    0:00 How Jasmine got into dance

    10:15 Dancing at CHAPEL HILL

    17:00 College Bsketball vs College Football Dance

    23:00 Cheering during PRIME CAM NEWTON

    29:45 Becoming a CAROLINA PANTHERS DANCER

    36:12 AUDITING for the Carolina Panthers

    41:30 How to train to be a Dancer/Cheerleader

    48:00 Panthers Cheerleading Style

    51:25 Cheerleading FILM STUDY

    53:29 Jasmine’s cheelrleading routine

    1:04:00 A 9-5 Job AND being a Professional Cheerleader??

    1:10:00 PAY THE CHEERLEADERS

    1:12:20 Jasmine’s practice schedule

    1:14:39 Jasmine’s path to being a Charlotee Hornets HONEYBEE

    1:26:47 Advice for Young Dancers

    1:29:00 Advice for Girls who are Trying Out for a Pro Team

    1:31:00 Jasmine’s Future Goals

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    1 h et 38 min
  • #169: America's Sweethearts DCC Season 2 Episode 7 Recap
    Sep 11 2025

    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 in cheerleading. Jasmine also touches on the significance of raising awareness for causes like alopecia and the challenges faced by the cheerleaders as they navigate their futures beyond DCC.


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Class Announcement

    02:14 Victoria's Move to New York City

    08:40 Chandi's Controversial Choices and Empathy

    09:54 Performing with Kacey Musgraves and Personal Growth

    13:45 The Emotional Last Game and Retirement Decisions

    16:41 Navigating Life After DCC

    18:55 KayDiana's Leadership Challenges and TikTok Drama

    22:20 End of Season Reflections and Future Prospects


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


    Send questions through DM or message me at theprofessionalcheerleader@gmail.com.


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    28 min
  • #168: America's Sweethearts: DCC, season 2 Episode 6 recap
    Sep 4 2025

    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 understanding, especially during difficult times, and reflects on the balance between personal life and the demands of a professional dance career.


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to the Imperfect Cheerleader Podcast

    01:26 Exploring the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Netflix Show

    03:11 Judy's Legacy and Coaching Philosophy

    04:53 Amanda's Journey and the Importance of Communication

    08:59 The Pay Debate and Value of Cheerleaders

    16:16 Women Standing Up for Their Worth

    18:18 Team Dynamics and Collective Action

    20:28 The Whirlwind of Cheerleading Season

    23:24 Balancing Dual Lives as a Cheerleader

    24:39 Relationships and Support Systems in Cheerleading

    25:52 Team Retreat and Social Media Influence

    28:12 Navigating Stress and Expectations as a Rookie

    29:46 Chandi's Controversial Decision and Empathy

    31:51 Understanding Mental Health Struggles

    32:55 The Impact of Public Scrutiny

    34:05 Life Beyond Cheerleading

    Amanda Howard podcast episode 19: https://open.spotify.com/episode/30SYIc3RtvDjlHTTEskrLg?si=HBjGzdYRQFWGSyvaJmTSiwNext in-person class: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-professional-cheerleader-in-person-class-913-tickets-1652858808189?aff=oddtdtcreator

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    36 min
  • #167: America's Sweethearts: DCC, season 2 episode 5 recap
    Aug 27 2025

    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 emphasizes the importance of leadership, building connections, and the emotional experience of the first game, while also addressing the challenges of contracts and financial struggles faced by cheerleaders.


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Recap Overview

    02:42 Listener Engagement and Dance Training Insights

    05:51 Questions from the Audience: Age Limits and Dance Classes

    07:35 Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Episode 5 Recap Begins

    10:47 Team Announcements and Emotional Reactions

    13:35 Sponsorships and Perks of Being a DCC

    16:32 Discussion on Pay and Financial Struggles

    20:51 Leadership and Team Dynamics

    23:02 Post-Team Life and Career Opportunities

    25:07 First Game Day Experience

    28:24 Emotional Moments and Family Support

    32:01 Contract Discussions and Team Power

    33:17 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview


    Next in-person class is September 13th or 20th. Check @theprofessionalcheerleader on Instagram and @thepro.cheerleader on TikTok for updates!


    Send questions for me to answer live on the next show :)


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    35 min
  • #166: America's Sweethearts: DCC, 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 min