Let’s Talk Cheer: The Cheerleading Podcast For Parents & Coaches

Jason Larkins, Bleav
  • 4.9 (192)
  • SPORTS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Are you tired of feeling totally lost when it comes to all-star cheerleading? Then the "Let's Talk Cheer" podcast, hosted by Jason Larkins, Cheer Director at American Cheer, is the show for you. Each episode Jason educates and entertains coaches and parents alike. First, so that coaches walk into each practice motivated, and so that they know they aren't alone on their journey. Second, so that parents have a better understanding of their athlete's sport. If you’re ready to join the team, you can start with a fan favorite episode from May 9th, “Jason and Brittany talk all things tryouts.” Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/jasonlarkins/support

  1. What Are Drivers? The Invisible Scores That Make or Break Your Cheer Routine

    3D AGO

    What Are Drivers? The Invisible Scores That Make or Break Your Cheer Routine

    Are politics, practice schedules, and score sheets quietly tearing your cheer gym apart? Between competition travel, added weekend practices, social media opinions, and the pressure of chasing bids, all-star cheer has become more intense than ever. Parents are asking hard questions. Coaches are balancing expectations. And athletes are caught in the middle. If you've ever wondered: Are we practicing too much… or not enough? Should parents really understand the score sheet? Can political opinions impact a team environment? What actually separates winning teams from everyone else? This episode tackles the real conversations happening in gym lobbies right now, the ones no one wants to say out loud. In this episode, you’ll learn: How competition scheduling decisions impact families and team culture What “drivers” actually mean on the score sheet and how they affect wins and losses Why understanding too much about judging might ruin the joy of watching your athlete compete Plus, Jason breaks down execution drivers, difficulty strategy, and why sometimes ignorance really is bliss for cheer parents. If you want to understand what’s really happening behind the scores, and enjoy the sport more in the process, press play now and get the inside perspective only coaches usually hear. Join our Patreon for ad free listening Buy the Jason's Book, Upside Down and Back Again ⁠ Jason's On-Demand Coaches Training Videos⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠ Code of Points Cheatsheet FREE⁠ Next Gen Cheer Biz Accelerator, March 31st- April 1st - https://nextgenowners.com/cheer-biz-accelerator/ AIA Global Qualifier- ca.themis.events Join the Cheer Mom's Anonymous Facebook Group- https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1Zt7hJYgHL/?mibextid=wwXIfr Brittany's Comp Cheer Checklist- instagram.com/stories/highlights/18356656174188077 Jason’s Book Recommendations- ⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon Affiliate Link⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Let's Talk Cheer on Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ Submit a Question of the Week  Other great cheerleading podcast to check out- The Cheer Biz Podcast, The Cheer Mom Podcast, Spill the Cheer, Mat Talk Table Talk, Cheer Chats Podcast, MotUS Edge Podcast, The Cheer Dad Podcast and the Here 4 Cheer Podcast Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    58 min
  2. Why Hitting Zero Is Overrated

    FEB 11

    Why Hitting Zero Is Overrated

    In the world of competitive cheerleading, high-pressure performances, fan encounters, and emotional moments collide but so do everyday parenting realities and hilarious behind-the-scenes stories. Whether you're a coach, cheer mom, or just love a good dose of real talk, this episode dives into the heart of the cheer world, where misidentifications, warmth, chaos, and community shine through. Hear Jason’s hilarious mix-up moments at Spirit Sports, including how he accidentally became a celebrity stand-in and stunted with a fan's daughter to avoid disappointment. Discover the emotional depth of support in cheerleading as Gina shares a heartwarming Cheer Mom Minute about showing up for other people’s kids and what that says about community. Get an insider breakdown of the cheer score sheet what really matters, how judging works, and why performance and facials might be more important than you thought. Join our Patreon for ad free listening Buy the Jason's Book, Upside Down and Back Again ⁠ Jason's On-Demand Coaches Training Videos⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠ Code of Points Cheatsheet FREE⁠ Next Gen Cheer Biz Accelerator, March 31st- April 1st - https://nextgenowners.com/cheer-biz-accelerator/ AIA Global Qualifier- ca.themis.events Join the Cheer Mom's Anonymous Facebook Group- https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1Zt7hJYgHL/?mibextid=wwXIfr Brittany's Comp Cheer Checklist- instagram.com/stories/highlights/18356656174188077 Jason’s Book Recommendations- ⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon Affiliate Link⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Let's Talk Cheer on Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ Submit a Question of the Week Other great cheerleading podcast to check out- The Cheer Biz Podcast, The Cheer Mom Podcast, Spill the Cheer, Mat Talk Table Talk, Cheer Chats Podcast, MotUS Edge Podcast, The Cheer Dad Podcast and the Here 4 Cheer Podcast Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    48 min
  3. Taking Cheer to the Next Level As an Athlete and a Sport

    FEB 3

    Taking Cheer to the Next Level As an Athlete and a Sport

    Are your athletes just “doing cheer,” or are they actually training like athletes, ready for what’s next in the sport? With STUNT officially earning NCAA championship status, the game is changing, fast. It’s no longer just about showing up to practice or having clean skills. If your athlete wants to thrive at the next level, they need to treat cheer like the elite sport it is becoming. In this episode, we dive into what that shift looks like, from recruiting and scholarships to training and nutrition. – Learn how NCAA recognition is opening new doors for cheer athletes nationwide – Find out why strength training, fueling, and recovery are now non-negotiables for top performers – Get inside tips from experts and coaches on what separates good athletes from recruited ones If you’re serious about helping your athlete rise in this sport, press play and learn what it really takes to level up. Buy the Jason's Book, Upside Down and Back Again ⁠ Jason's On-Demand Coaches Training Videos⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠ Code of Points Cheatsheet FREE⁠ Next Gen Cheer Biz Accelerator, March 31st- April 1st - https://nextgenowners.com/cheer-biz-accelerator/ AIA Global Qualifier- ca.themis.events Join the Cheer Mom's Anonymous Facebook Group- https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1Zt7hJYgHL/?mibextid=wwXIfr Brittany's Comp Cheer Checklist- instagram.com/stories/highlights/18356656174188077 Jason’s Book Recommendations- ⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon Affiliate Link⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Let's Talk Cheer on Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ Submit a Question of the Week  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    1h 13m
  4. 7 Reasons Teen Cheerleaders Struggle With Nutrition & Motivation

    JAN 28

    7 Reasons Teen Cheerleaders Struggle With Nutrition & Motivation

    Are poor eating habits and low motivation holding your cheerleader back—while you watch helplessly from the sidelines? If you're a parent of a competitive cheerleader between 13–15 years old, you're likely juggling the emotional tightrope of encouraging performance while protecting your child’s mental and physical health. In this episode, Jason and Gina dive deep into real struggles families face, from nutrition avoidance and gym resistance to the pressure of body image and discipline. You’ll hear personal stories, laugh-out-loud moments, and candid advice that every cheer parent needs to hear, without the sugarcoating. Learn how resistance training can enhance performance for all athletes: flyers, bases, and tumblers alike. Discover the real difference between “dieting” and fueling your body like an athlete (especially for teen girls). Get practical language swaps and strategies that help motivate without creating body image issues. Press play now to learn how to help your cheerleader thrive in body, mind, and performance—without the guilt or confusion. Buy the Jason's Book, Upside Down and Back Again ⁠ Jason's On-Demand Coaches Training Videos⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠ Code of Points Cheatsheet FREE⁠ Next Gen Cheer Biz Accelerator, March 31st- April 1st - https://nextgenowners.com/cheer-biz-accelerator/ AIA Global Qualifier- ca.themis.events Join the Cheer Mom's Anonymous Facebook Group- https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1Zt7hJYgHL/?mibextid=wwXIfr Brittany's Comp Cheer Checklist- instagram.com/stories/highlights/18356656174188077 Jason’s Book Recommendations- ⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon Affiliate Link⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Let's Talk Cheer on Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ Submit a Question of the Week Other great cheerleading podcast to check out- The Cheer Biz Podcast, The Cheer Mom Podcast, Spill the Cheer, Mat Talk Table Talk, Cheer Chats Podcast, MotUS Edge Podcast, The Cheer Dad Podcast and the Here 4 Cheer Podcast Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    50 min

  5. JAN 21

    3 Signs Your Cheerleaders Are Prioritizing the Wrong Details on Comp Day

    Ever feel like your athlete is more focused on their lashes than their layouts? You're not alone, and this episode tackles the often overlooked imbalance between how athletes look and how they perform. Plus, Jason shares a painfully funny journey of living with a missing tooth while coaching and competing, and Gina opens up about parenting, living vicariously, and why blackout curtains might be the most underrated life hack. Discover the truth about skill levels, choreography choices, and how teams score—even when their skills seem below level. Gain a fresh perspective on the "living through your kid" debate, and hear why it might be time to reframe the conversation. Get a powerful PSA all-star athletes need to hear about where their focus really should be on comp day.Hit play now for a wildly entertaining episode packed with relatable stories, real talk, and valuable insight every cheer parent and coach needs to hear. Join our Patreon for ad free listening Buy the Jason's Book, Upside Down and Back Again ⁠ Jason's On-Demand Coaches Training Videos⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠ Code of Points Cheatsheet FREE⁠ Next Gen Cheer Biz Accelerator, March 31st- April 1st - https://nextgenowners.com/cheer-biz-accelerator/ AIA Global Qualifier- ca.themis.events   Join the Cheer Mom's Anonymous Facebook Group- https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1Zt7hJYgHL/?mibextid=wwXIfr   Brittany's Comp Cheer Checklist- instagram.com/stories/highlights/18356656174188077 Jason’s Book Recommendations- ⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon Affiliate Link⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Let's Talk Cheer on Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ Submit a Question of the Week Other great cheerleading podcast to check out- The Cheer Biz Podcast, The Cheer Mom Podcast, Spill the Cheer, Mat Talk Table Talk, Cheer Chats Podcast, MotUS Edge Podcast, The Cheer Dad Podcast and the Here 4 Cheer Podcast Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    54 min

  6. JAN 14

    Why Inconsistent Attendance is Killing Your Cheer Season

    Are you the only one showing up while others treat cheer like an option? What should parents really expect from their gym, and each other? In this episode, Jason and Gina dive deep into the reality of prep team practice culture, the pressure of comp season, and how parents can navigate frustration when other athletes don’t show up. Whether you're a cheer coach or a committed parent, this conversation hits hard and gives voice to what many are quietly thinking. Learn how to reframe your athlete’s experience so their effort feels seen, even when others aren’t showing up. Get insider tips on how coaches can reset team culture without losing sight of values. Discover the mindset shift every parent and athlete needs to make competition season less stressful and more rewarding. Hit play to hear the raw, real talk that every dedicated cheer parent and coach needs this season. Buy the Jason's Book, Upside Down and Back Again ⁠ Jason's On-Demand Coaches Training Videos⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠ Code of Points Cheatsheet FREE⁠ Next Gen Coaches Conference Promo Code - https://nextgenowners.com/cheer-biz-accelerator/ AIA Global Qualifier- ca.themis.events Brittany's Comp Cheer Checklist- instagram.com/stories/highlights/18356656174188077 Jason’s Book Recommendations- ⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon Affiliate Link⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Let's Talk Cheer on Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ Submit a Question of the Week ⁠⁠ You can support this podcast by making donations here⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other great cheerleading podcast to check out- The Cheer Biz Podcast, The Cheer Mom Podcast, Spill the Cheer, Mat Talk Table Talk, Cheer Chats Podcast, MotUS Edge Podcast, The Cheer Dad Podcast and the Here 4 Cheer Podcast Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    53 min

  7. JAN 1

    Cheer Parents vs. Cheer Gyms: Who’s Responsible for Cheer Skill Development?

    Who’s really responsible for your athlete’s growth, gyms or parents? And what happens when those expectations clash? If you’re navigating the world of All-Star cheerleading as a coach, parent, or athlete, you’ve likely asked the hard questions: Should the gym be responsible for individual athlete development? Are you doing enough outside of team practice to help your child level up? This episode peels back the curtain on what’s really happening behind the scenes and how misunderstanding your role can leave your athlete falling behind. Discover the clear difference between gym responsibility vs. family responsibility when it comes to athlete progression. Hear hilarious, unfiltered cheer horror stories, including a cheer mom confrontation that ended with a police report. Get expert insight into why some cheerleaders plateau and how choosing the right coach can change everything. Hit play now to hear how clear expectations and the right approach to development can transform your athlete’s cheer journey. Visit CoachJasonLarkins.com for Jason's Code of Points Cheat Sheet (completely free), all of Jason's courses, the book Upside Down and Back Again and Video Reviews! Sign Up For Patreon- Early Access and Ad-Free Listening Next Gen Coaches Conference Promo Code "BLACKFRIDAY" - https://ngconferences.com/ AIA Global Qualifier- ca.themis.events Brittany's Comp Cheer Checklist- instagram.com/stories/highlights/18356656174188077 Jason’s Book Recommendations- ⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon Affiliate Link⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Let's Talk Cheer on Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ Submit a Question of the Week ⁠⁠ You can support this podcast by making donations here⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other great cheerleading podcast to check out- The Cheer Biz Podcast, The Cheer Mom Podcast, Spill the Cheer, Mat Talk Table Talk, Cheer Chats Podcast, MotUS Edge Podcast, The Cheer Dad Podcast and the Here 4 Cheer Podcast Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    1h 10m

  8. 12/24/2025

    Why Most Cheerleaders Don’t Need All-Star Their Senior Year (Hot Take)

    Can a simple group chat make you a better coach, parent or even a more consistent gym-goer? With competition season heating up and holiday chaos in full swing, staying accountable and focused is harder than ever, for athletes, parents, and coaches alike. In this episode, Jason and B. Moore dive into how accountability (in the gym and in life) can fuel progress and purpose, whether you're a cheer coach, a busy parent, or an aspiring college cheerleader. Discover how one former athlete turned employee of the year proves that mentorship and grit can change lives. Learn why some skills just aren't worth obsessing over—and which ones truly move the needle. Get real talk on whether your senior really needs that last year of All-Star to make it onto a college cheer team.Tune in now to hear how a gym group chat, team standards, and a little tough love could be the secret to success for you or your athlete. Sign Up For Patreon- Early Access and Ad-Free Listening Buy the Jason's Book, Upside Down and Back Again ⁠ Jason's On-Demand Coaches Training Videos⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠ Code of Points Cheatsheet FREE⁠ Next Gen Coaches Conference Promo Code "BLACKFRIDAY" - https://ngconferences.com/ AIA Global Qualifier- ca.themis.events Brittany's Comp Cheer Checklist- instagram.com/stories/highlights/18356656174188077 Jason’s Book Recommendations- ⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon Affiliate Link⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Let's Talk Cheer on Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ Submit a Question of the Week ⁠⁠ You can support this podcast by making donations here⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other great cheerleading podcast to check out- The Cheer Biz Podcast, The Cheer Mom Podcast, Spill the Cheer, Mat Talk Table Talk, Cheer Chats Podcast, MotUS Edge Podcast, The Cheer Dad Podcast and the Here 4 Cheer Podcast Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    49 min
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About

Are you tired of feeling totally lost when it comes to all-star cheerleading? Then the "Let's Talk Cheer" podcast, hosted by Jason Larkins, Cheer Director at American Cheer, is the show for you. Each episode Jason educates and entertains coaches and parents alike. First, so that coaches walk into each practice motivated, and so that they know they aren't alone on their journey. Second, so that parents have a better understanding of their athlete's sport. If you’re ready to join the team, you can start with a fan favorite episode from May 9th, “Jason and Brittany talk all things tryouts.” Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/jasonlarkins/support

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