The (Im)Perfect Cheerleader Podcast

Jasmine Neely
  • 5.0 (22)
  • Sports

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!

  1. May 28

    #183: The Ultimate Performer, Michael Jackson

    Ever wondered why we obsess over the lives of iconic stars like Michael Jackson? Let’s dive deep into the mystery. 🤔 After watching the new Michael Jackson biopic, I found myself lost in thoughts about his life. He was such a massive star, but what about his personal struggles? The film highlights his complex relationship with his father, Joe Jackson, and how it shaped him. It made me reflect on the loneliness that often accompanies fame. Think about it: these performers captivate us for just a few hours on stage, yet behind the curtain, they’re just like us—human, with their own battles. It’s intriguing to realize that the glitz often hides a much deeper story. I find myself wanting to know more about their lives off-stage. What do they do when the spotlight dims? Such insights help us appreciate the artistry even more. Michael's journey teaches us about resilience and the human experience. What’s your take on the pressures of fame? Follow @theprofessionalcheerleader for more on dance tips, audition advice and more!

    25 min

  2. May 22

    #182: TopCats Eras Series: Annalise Coleman & Kamilah McCray

    Join us as we celebrate three decades of TopCats cheerleading with legendary members Kamilah McCray and Annalise Coleman who both cheered during the mid 2010s and early 2020s eras. This episode highlights their journeys, memorable moments, and the impact of being part of the TopCats organization. Timestamps:00:00 - Welcome and introduction to the TopCats 30-year anniversary series00:28 - Meet Annalise and Kamilah, TopCats legends and sisters00:57 - Annalise shares her journey from college cheerleader to team captain02:11 - Kamilah discusses her 5-year tenure and her wedding performance03:16 - The drive behind auditioning and how they prepared for TopCats04:14 - Overcoming challenges and succeeding on the first try05:49 - Bonding with teammates and lifelong friendships09:13 - The realness of leadership, growth, and sisterhood13:25 - Reflections on diversity, representation, and cultural identity15:22 - Maintaining physical health and managing injuries over years19:16 - Dealing with criticism and staying true to personal goals25:56 - Lessons from 30 years of TopCats history26:56 - Returning for the 30th anniversary game and celebrating community37:12 - Highlights from Pro Bowl experiences and unforgettable memories40:28 - Preparing for upcoming auditions and tips from veterans43:11 - The importance of consistency, self-care, and embracing imperfection49:29 - Final advice for aspiring cheerleaders and organizers of the future52:11 - What makes us imperfect and the journey toward self-acceptance55:03 - Fun rapid-fire questions about traditions, favorite moments, and iconic memories60:51 - Unique cheers, moments of camaraderie, and evergreen team moves Follow the ladies on social! Annalise Coleman @rihannalise on InstagramKamilah McCray @kamilahmccray across everythingAlumni TopCats follow @cpfcaa on Instagram for alumni news and updates!

    59 min

  3. May 7

    #181: TopCats Eras Series: Tiffany Pittman & Macey Butler

    Summary Join Jasmine Neely as she interviews Tiffany Pittman and Macey Butler, two former TopCats, as they share their experiences, memorable moments like Super Bowl 50, and life after pro cheerleading. Discover insights into dedication, community, and embracing imperfection in this inspiring episode. Chapters 00:00 Celebrating 30 Years of the TopCats 02:37 Personal Journeys: From Aspiring Dancers to TopCats 05:29 Adjusting to the TopCats Dance Style 08:14 Memorable Moments: The NFC Championship Experience 11:05 Fitness and Nutrition: Balancing Performance and Health 14:00 The Impact of Weigh-Ins and Body Image on Cheerleaders 26:44 Fueling the Passion: Snacks and Energy During Auditions 31:04 Navigating the Audition Process: Length and Support 35:30 Life After the TopCats: Career Paths and Aspirations 39:54 Embracing Change: Moving to Spain and Cultural Adjustments 47:23 Empowering the Next Generation: Lessons for Our Children 51:04 Motivation Through Life Changes 53:31 The Role of Parenthood in Motivation 55:57 Embracing Imperfection 57:41 Memorable Moments in the NFL 01:06:04 Community Engagement and Impact 01:09:10 Advice for Future Generations Follow @theprofessionalcheerleader on Instagram and thepro.cheerleader on TikTok and stay tuned for more pro dance audition tips and class announcements. Follow Tiffany Pittman @Tiffanypittmanglobal and Macey Butler @maceystrickbutler

    1h 12m

  4. Apr 24

    #180: TopCats Eras Series: Nicole Smith & Denise Porter

    Celebrating 30 Years of the TopCats with stories and memories from Nicole and Denise! Summary Former TopCats Nicole Smith (my former coach!) and Denise Porter share their 30-year journey with the team, the evolution of pro cheerleading from the 90s to now, and behind-the-scenes stories from game day and community involvement. Join us as we explore the transformative experiences, behind-the-scenes insights, and personal stories of top pros and dance team members. Discover what it takes to excel, stay authentic, and inspire others through dedication and passion. Follow @theprofessionalcheerleader on Instagram and YouTube and @thepro.cheerleader on TikTok for more pro dance content. Chapters 00:00 Celebrating 30 Years of TopCats 02:14 Inaugural Squad Experiences and Achievements 05:23 Evolution of the TopCats 09:39 Choreography and Dance Style Transformation 12:58 Friendships Beyond the Locker Room 16:56 Community Engagement and Impact 20:44 Transitioning from Dancer to Coach 27:50 Mentorship and Leadership in the TopCats 33:11 The Journey of a Cheerleader 39:39 Leadership and Standards in Cheerleading 41:02 Makeup and Image in Cheerleading 50:47 Lessons Learned from the TopCats Experience 01:03:39 The Selection Process: Insights from Coaches 01:04:56 The Total Package: What Judges Look For 01:08:24 The Importance of Authenticity in Auditions 01:13:09 Life Aspirations: Balancing Family and Passion 01:16:31 Embracing Imperfection: Personal Reflections 01:19:24 Rapid Fire: Fun Moments and Memories

    1h 27m

  5. Apr 17

    #179: TopCats Eras Series, Celebrating 30 Years of TopCats: Kelli Triplett and Tara (Mull) Ryan

    Summary This episode features Tara Ryan and Kelli Triplett, two former TopCats cheerleaders, sharing their inspiring journeys, audition stories, team dynamics, and lessons learned from the 30-year cheerleading legacy. Discover how perseverance, support, and passion can lead to extraordinary achievements in the world of NFL cheerleading. In this interview, former TopCats share their unforgettable experiences, team traditions like Ralph the spirit rat, and insights on life after cheerleading. Discover how dedication, camaraderie, and resilience shape their journeys both on and off the field. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the TopCats Era 02:34 Personal Journeys and Backgrounds 05:16 Team Dynamics and Growth 07:46 Transitioning from College to Professional Cheerleading 10:22 The Impact of Team Changes 12:55 Audition Experiences and Challenges 27:08 The Evolution of Audition Processes 27:53 Overcoming Self-Doubt in Auditions 29:49 The Pressure of Returning to Auditions 31:14 The Fear of Losing Your Spot 33:30 Navigating Gap Years and Comebacks 38:51 The Process of Choosing Captains 41:38 Memorable Pro Bowl Announcements 45:41 Reflecting on Pro Bowl Experiences 47:29 The Legacy of Ralph the Rubber Rat 51:50 Evolution of Team Dynamics 55:24 Life After TopCats: Transitioning to New Roles 01:05:43 Navigating Parenthood and Career Choices 01:07:24 The Unique Journey of Motherhood 01:09:27 Cherished Memories and Team Bonds 01:14:06 Pregame Rituals and Team Dynamics 01:15:43 Reflections on Challenges and Triumphs 01:19:15 Advice for Aspiring TopCats Follow @theprofessionalcheerleader on Instagram and @thepro.cheerleader on TikTok. Follow Tara Ryan @Tboneonrye - Instagram and TikTok and Tara Mull Ryan - Facebook

    1h 24m

  6. Apr 9

    #178: How I am adjusting to NBA dance life

    In this episode I am sharing my journey of being an NBA dancer, embracing age, overcoming mental blocks, and balancing faith with my passion for dance in the high-pressure world of NBA dancing. I share insights into resilience, self-confidence, and finding purpose at every stage of life. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction: Why knowing about NBA dance life matters00:33 - Being an older dancer: Wisdom, impostor syndrome, and self-confidence challenges01:47 - Overcoming mental blocks: Strategies and mindset shifts02:46 - Staying true to yourself while adapting to NBA style04:21 - Building confidence after time off and handling age-related physical changes05:18 - Facing performance anxiety and the importance of mental health work06:34 - Insights into audition experiences and physical injuries08:02 - The physical and emotional demands of returning to professional dance09:42 - Recognizing dance as part of divine purpose, not identity solely10:42 - Life lessons through basketball, auditions, and divine timing12:06 - The role of faith and community in dance and life13:27 - Celebrating progress and the importance of hope and perseverance14:21 - Trusting divine timing and learning from setbacks15:08 - The emotional journey of close calls and divine redirection16:20 - Current season updates and balancing physical/mental health17:27 - Closing thoughts on resilience, faith, and future aspirations Resources & Links:Connect with Jasmine Neely Episode 160: Unlocking Performance Psychology with Coach Lain⁠ ⁠The Professional Cheerleader Instagram⁠⁠The Professional Cheerleader TikTok⁠Email: theprofessionalcheerleader@gmail.com

    29 min

  7. Apr 3

    #177: TopCats Eras Series, Celebrating 30 Years of TopCats: DaWanda Bittle and Felicia Dawson

    Summary In this episode of the ImPerfect Cheerleader podcast, host Jasmine Neely engages with former TopCats DaWanda Bittle and Felicia Dawson, celebrating their experiences and achievements during their tenures with the pro cheerleading squad. They share personal stories, lessons learned, memorable moments, and insights into the audition process, fitness expectations, and the camaraderie that defined their time as TopCats. The conversation also touches on the evolution of cheerleading standards and the impact of their experiences on their lives post-cheerleading. In this engaging conversation, the guests reflect on their experiences as captains of the TopCats cheerleading squad, discussing the challenges of leadership, the importance of fitness, and the impact of their roles on personal growth. They share insights on establishing an alumni association, honoring Black History Month, and memorable interactions with celebrities. The discussion also touches on finding motivation during tough times, embracing imperfection, and the significance of community and support within the team. Chapters 00:00 Celebrating 30 Years of TopCats 02:27 Personal Journeys and Achievements 05:09 Lessons Learned from Cheerleading 07:52 Memorable Experiences and Super Bowl Highlights 10:31 The Audition Process and Preparation 13:04 The London Super Bash Experience 30:04 First Impressions of International Travel 32:08 Cultural Experiences and NFL's Global Reach 33:12 Tenure and Competition in the Cheerleading Squad 38:45 Fitness Standards and Body Image in Cheerleading 44:25 Leadership Challenges as Captains 50:46 The Impact of Cheerleading on Personal Growth 52:08 Establishing the Alumni Association 54:54 Honoring Black History Month in the NFL 01:00:40 Building Community and Support Among Dancers 01:02:35 Memorable Performances and Celebrity Interactions 01:06:42 Finding Motivation in Tough Times 01:10:11 Embracing Imperfection and Self-Discovery 01:15:44 Rapid Fire: Traditions and Favorite Moments Follow @theprofessionalcheerleader on Instagram and @thepro.cheerleader on TikTok. DaWanda Bittle - Facebook, theofficialdbittle - Instagram Felicia Dawson - @whereintheworldisfee(IG), felicia r Dawson (FB) LinkedIn.com/in/feliciadawson

    1h 22m

  8. Mar 19

    #176: TopCats Eras Series, Celebrating 30 Years of TopCats: Shannon McClattie and Tammy Tucci

    In this special episode of the Imperfect Cheerleader podcast, we celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Top Cats, the cheerleading squad for the Carolina Panthers. Host Jasmine Neely is joined by two distinguished members of the team, Shannon McClattie and Tammy Tucci, who share their inspiring journeys and unforgettable experiences as TopCats. Their stories not only highlight the milestones of their cheerleading careers but also the personal growth and camaraderie that come with being part of such an iconic team. Follow @theprofessionalcheerleader for more information about pro cheer and dance tips. Tammy Tucci Cheerleader - 1996 (Inaugural squad), Cheerleader- 1997, 2001 (Co-Captain)Facebook - Tammy Baqui Tucci, Instagram - TTipsy3, LinkedIn - Tammy Tucci Shannon McClattie Cheerleader - 1998 to 2009Social media - Shannoneclatt

    1h 40m
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5
out of 5
22 Ratings

About

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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