The PROformance Review podcast (formerly The ImPerfect Cheerleader)

Jasmine Neely
  • 5.0 (22)
  • Performing Arts
  • Updated Biweekly

The PROformance Review (formerly The ImPerfect Cheerleader) is a performance-driven podcast that explores what it really takes to succeed at a high level in entertainment, sports, and beyond. We keep the professional dance foundation while exploring professional entertainers broadly. You can expect deep dive interviews with all kinds of performers, cultural commentary, and insights on discipline, execution, mindset, and useful tips and tricks that every performer needs to succeed at their highest level.

  1. 6d ago

    #188: It's time for a new era...Goodbye ICP...Hello...

    For five years, The I(m)Perfect Cheerleader has served as a resource for aspiring professional dancers and cheerleaders, offering audition strategies, mindset coaching, and behind-the-scenes insight into the pro dance world. When I started the podcast in 2021, it was meant for aspiring pro dancers around the world to find community, understand that their feelings are valid and that I understood what they were going through. We grew the podcast to nearly 200 episodes including interviews with former pros, industry titans, mindset coaches, former cheerleaders and coaches, etc.  But now it’s time for a new era… Over the years, The (Im)perfect Cheerleader became something bigger, a place where performers shared the realities of pursuing excellence, building careers, navigating setbacks, and finding purpose beyond the stage. Today, that mission continues under a new name. Welcome to The PROformance Review, where we explore what it truly takes to perform at your highest level, in dance, entertainment, business, and life. The purpose of this name change is to bridge the gap between performers around the world. We all share a common love of performing at the highest level, letting our guards down, controlling our mindset as performers and being the best version of ourselves while asking the question: How do I perform at the highest level while building a life I actually want? I’ll be bringing on all types of performers like singers, musicians, actors, business professionals, and of course dancers of all realms of the business. There will be some cultural commentary as well since performers shape culture! It will still have that pro dance foundation that it started with, but under a new name.  Thank you so much for listening this long, tuning into the The (Im)perfect Cheerleader podcast and providing your comments on episodes on all the platforms like Spotify, YouTube, Apple podcasts, Google, etc. So with that, Welcome to the PROformance Review podcast. Make sure to subscribe, so you get the newly released episode as soon as it’s posted.  Much love, performers!  Follow me on Instagram @prodanceperformers and send me a DM on you favorite takeaway from an episode.

  2. Jul 23

    #187: Beyond the Field, TopCats alumni event

    In this special live taping of The (Im)Perfect Cheerleader I am sitting down with TopCats alum at the Beyond the Field alumni event focused on three pillars: Rise, Rally, and Restore. We did a somatic yoga session, line danced, and connected with each other for recharging and resetting. As you can see in the video, alumni had booths set up to showcase their businesses and platforms. I had a chance to interview amazing alumni on site who shared their personal stories of how they rise, rally, and restore after TC life. Anyone can get something out of these conversations, so I hope you enjoy them! I want to give a special shoutout to Dr. Lenee Cook-Braxton and Cyndi Crosby for inviting me to be a part of this event and for letting me sit down with them. Special thanks also go DaWanda Bittle, Annalise Coleman and Hannah Grey Elrose for sharing the mic with me. If you are a TopCats alum, be on the lookout for more events by following CPFCAA on socials. I'll be teaching an alumni class soon! For current, aspiring, and former pros: I will continue teaching classes through August on Tuesday nights at 6 pm. Come join me! Resources and links: https://scarletibischarters.com/ https://www.holisticperformancecenter.com/ https://westkeptsecret.co/ https://www.sacredflowervibes.com/ Copyright-free music Free Music for Videos 👉 Music by Damien Sebe - just you - https://thmatc.co/?l=EEBD7E47 Follow @prodanceperformers on Instagram and @thepro.dancer on TikTok for more tips on everything pro dance. DISCLAIMER: The "Beyond the Field" event and CPFCAA do not endorse or support the use of cannabis in any way.

  3. Jul 9

    #186: An NCAA cheerleader's period recovery with Allison Yamamoto

    The Role of Hormonal Health and Training Balance in Female Athletes with Allison Yamamoto Discover how hormonal health impacts athletic performance, recovery, and longevity. Join Jasmine Neely as she interviews sports nutritionist and founder of Koa Athletic Health, Allison Yamamoto, about managing training, nutrition, and mental health for women in aesthetic sports. Allison's Bio Allison Yamamoto is a sports nutritionist, certified run coach, and founder of Koa Athletic Health, who specializes in helping female athletes restore their hormone health and recover from RED-S (Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport). As a former NCAA cheerleader herself, she understands the unique pressures facing athletes in aesthetic sports and has personally navigated the journey from missing periods and chronic underfueling to full health restoration. She now works with female athletes across cheerleading, dance, gymnastics, and endurance sports, combining evidence-based research with her lived experience in the athletic community. Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction to Allison Yamamoto and her expertise in hormone health for female athletes02:22 - The story behind Reds and how it relates to overtraining and under-fueling04:16 - Systemic impacts of hormonal imbalance on performance and injury risk07:05 - Recognizing overtraining and perfectionism in aesthetic sports09:38 - Signs of under-recovery and strategies for effective rest12:15 - Crafting optimal training and recovery routines for cheerleaders and dancers14:10 - Understanding performance plateaus and the importance of rest days16:17 - The mental health aspects: anxiety, mood, and hormonal connection18:45 - The role of rest in muscle and performance resilience21:03 - The significance of sleep and managing stressors outside training23:25 - How training overload can stack stress and impair recovery27:28 - Optimizing workout programming for dancers and athletes30:20 - The benefits of moderate, enjoyable cardio modalities like walking and Pilates35:00 - Nutrition strategies for game days and performance events39:46 - Fueling tactics as part of athletic success and mental clarity45:32 - Common myths about foods like bread and carbohydrates and their role in performance52:21 - Overview of Allison’s comprehensive program for athletic health recovery56:30 - Comparing athletic experiences in high school and college cheerleading62:40 - Coach influence and team culture on athlete health and body image68:24 - The importance of mental perspective on food, training, and recovery75:43 - Best practices for cardio and high-intensity activities for dancers77:28 - Small daily actions to improve refueling and recovery78:17 - Allison’s reflection on imperfection and healthy self-expectations80:49 - Connecting with Allison Yamamoto for support and resources Connect with Allison Yamamoto: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allisonyamamoto Website: https://www.koaathletic.health/ Substack: https://f4bqfi.subscribepage.io/?fbclid=PAVERFWAS43npleHRuA2FlbQIxMABzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA8xMjQwMjQ1NzQyODc0MTQAAae4M7IDJqKGkb_z6zcNy38-lENeyiJCQa0zzcUyUkrLgt_zZK3SrkW8DTiApA_aem_P3X_9EcThJ1vbPtTcJ5tGQ

  4. Jul 4

    #185: Let's catch up! What I've been up to

    It's been a while since we caught up, so I am updating you on my life and what I've been up to! I include my return to the Honey Bees, reflect on auditions, discuss new projects, podcasts, and thoughts on social media's impact on athletes and dancers. Main topics include: Jasmine’s return to the Honeybees for a second seasonBalancing fun and focus during cheerleading auditionsNavigating rejection and processing emotional setbacksInsights from the DCC Netflix series, including social media influence and faithExciting alumni series and upcoming podcast guestsPersonal growth, including consideration of rebranding the podcastTeaching dance residencies and engaging with the pro dance communityImpact of social media on mental health and professional performanceSpeculations on potential reality shows for other NBA teams Resources & Links: Connect with Jasmine. Stay tuned for upcoming episodes, new guests, and updates on rebranding! TikTok: @thepro.dancerInstagram: @theprofessionalcheerleaderTopCats Eras Series - Episodes 175-184 Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction and podcast overview00:07 - Jasmine’s exciting news about rejoining the Honeybees01:05 - Reflecting on rookie season and leadership roles01:35 - Support role for rookies and summer break plans02:02 - Preparing for upcoming cheer season and upcoming appearances02:32 - Enjoying the summer without practice commitments03:01 - Experiences and lessons from cheer auditions03:31 - The importance of mental focus and social media boundaries04:00 - Balancing fun and focus during auditions04:29 - Social media’s effects on memory and social skills05:25 - Resisting social media during finals and the importance of presence05:55 - How to handle social media during critical audition phases06:24 - Being intentional about social interactions during auditions07:23 - The challenge of maintaining focus and having fun simultaneously08:20 - Realities of semi-finals and performance stress09:05 - Emotions experienced during audition performances09:35 - The mental exercise of expected perfection and self-compassion10:03 - Lessons on mistakes and grace under pressure11:03 - Final auditions, production elements, and reduced stress12:14 - Handling rejection and self-care post-auditions13:10 - Processing disappointment and reevaluating next steps14:21 - The importance of passion and resilience in dance careers15:16 - Working through negative experiences affecting love for dance16:03 - The role of faith and community in professional dance16:45 - Broader thoughts on dance, purpose, and divine timing17:21 - Completing the TopCats alumni series and reflections18:02 - Launching the TopCats alumni podcast series18:30 - Gratitude for audience support and requesting reviews19:14 - Highlighting the Beyond the Field alumni event and podcast episode20:19 - Celebrating inspiring women in the dance and cheer community21:16 - Thoughts on Netflix’s DCC series and its social commentary22:02 - The societal impact of social media and critical narratives22:49 - Reece’s decision to step away from the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders23:15 - Faith’s influence on dance careers and reflections24:33 - Experiencing the uniqueness and spiritual significance of pro dance25:02 - The intersection of faith and professional dance careers26:31 - Imagining new reality shows for other NBA teams27:44 - Highlighting the NBA dance scene with Hardwood Dancers28:35 - Potential podcast rebranding to better reflect pro dance29:22 - Announcing dance classes at NC Dance District29:51 - Invitation to join Jasmine’s dance residency30:14 - Closing remarks and upcoming guests, thanks for listening Music Free Music for Videos 👉 Music by Damien Sebe - conversations - https://thmatc.co/?l=F6DE0B23 Free Music for Videos 👉 Music by Gabe Garreth & L!FE - falling through the sky - https://thmatc.co/?l=BE51BD4C Business inquiries: @theprofessionalcheerleader@gmail.com

  5. Jun 13

    #184: TopCats Eras Series FINAL EPISODE: Trica Johnson & Brandi Hopson

    We close out the TopCats Eras Series with the most recently retired TopCats, Trica Johnson and Brandi Hopson (I'm so sad it's over). These ladies share their inspiring journeys, challenges faced, and the lessons learned along the way. This episode offers both motivational stories and practical insights for aspiring pro cheerleaders and anyone chasing big dreams. Plus, you'll get a lot of laughs! Key Topics: How Trica and Brandi made their way onto the TopCats team after multiple auditions and years of perseveranceThe importance of resilience, including dealing with rejections and setbacksThe role of support systems from coaches to family in achieving long-term goalsThe balance of motherhood, health, and ambition, including stories of returning to the team postpartumTips on preparation, staying present, and mental resilience during auditionsInsights into team diversity, coed integration, and the community spirit within TopCatsPractical advice on nutrition, rest, and mental strategies for performance and audition successSupporting stories of failure, recovery, and stories that turn into lifelong friendshipsChapters (00:00) - Introduction to the TopCats 30th anniversary series and guest introductions(02:30) - Guest backgrounds and notable achievements in pro cheerleading(05:50) - Motivations and persistence that kept them trying for TopCats(10:00) - Overcoming repeated rejections and lessons in resilience(15:00) - The journey of postpartum return and balancing family life with pro cheerleading(20:00) - Audition tips: preparation, mental resilience, and resting strategies(25:00) - The power of mentorship, support, and community within cheerleading and entrepreneurship(30:00) - The importance of staying present, compartmentalizing tasks, and embracing imperfections(35:00) - Nutrition, hydration, and fueling the body for peak performance(40:00) - Experiences of team diversity and coed integration(45:00) - The significance of rejection and learning from setbacks(50:00) - Moments of pride, team bonds, and the cultural impact of being a TopCat(55:00) - Rapid fire: favorite routines, game day rituals, and humorous moments(60:00) - Closing thoughts: stories of perseverance, encouragement, and collective legacyConnect with the Guests: Brandi Hopson - InstagramTrica Johnson - InstagramYou can check out episodes 1-7 right here on The ImPerfect Cheerleader podcast. Follow @theprofessionalcheerleader on Instagram and @thepro.dancer on TikTok for more information on audition tips, advice, classes and podcast guests.

  6. 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!

  7. 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!

  8. 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

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The PROformance Review (formerly The ImPerfect Cheerleader) is a performance-driven podcast that explores what it really takes to succeed at a high level in entertainment, sports, and beyond. We keep the professional dance foundation while exploring professional entertainers broadly. You can expect deep dive interviews with all kinds of performers, cultural commentary, and insights on discipline, execution, mindset, and useful tips and tricks that every performer needs to succeed at their highest level.

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