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

Jason Larkins, Bleav
  • 4.9 (196)
  • 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. 7 Reasons Athletes Choke Under Pressure (And What Elite Performers Do Differently)

    APR 22

    7 Reasons Athletes Choke Under Pressure (And What Elite Performers Do Differently)

    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    31 min
  2. How Cheerleaders Actually Level Up Faster (Hint: It’s Not What Most Parents Think)

    APR 15

    How Cheerleaders Actually Level Up Faster (Hint: It’s Not What Most Parents Think)

    Is it actually easier to level up in cheer as a tumbler, or are non-tumblers being overlooked? Tryout season brings stress, confusion, and big decisions for cheer parents and athletes alike. Whether you're wondering why your child didn’t make a team, debating if Summit is worth it, or trying to understand how coaches really make decisions, this episode pulls back the curtain on what’s actually happening behind the scenes. Gain clarity on what truly helps athletes level up, and why tumbling often changes everything Understand how coaches evaluate athletes (and whether favoritism really plays a role) Learn how miscommunication and small decisions can impact big opportunities like Summit Press play now to get the insider perspective that will help you navigate tryouts, team placements, and the cheer world with confidence. 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.

    1h 13m
  3. Should Cheerleaders Tryout at Multiple Gyms

    APR 8

    Should Cheerleaders Tryout at Multiple Gyms

    Are you unknowingly risking deductions, or even losing a championship, because of one small detail in your routine? Cheerleading is more competitive than ever, and the smallest mistakes, like slight changes in skill execution or unclear communication during tryouts, can completely change your season. Whether you're a coach trying to avoid legality issues or a parent navigating team placements, understanding how decisions are really made can make all the difference. Learn how to avoid costly legality deductions that most teams don’t see coming Understand how tryouts really work and what impacts team placement decisions Discover how to navigate gym loyalty vs. opportunity without hurting your athlete’s future Hit play now to learn the hidden mistakes, tough truths, and smart strategies that can protect your team’s score and your athlete’s future. 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.

    57 min
  4. Why Varsity Delayed Removing Flex (Straight From The Source)

    APR 1

    Why Varsity Delayed Removing Flex (Straight From The Source)

    Are the biggest changes in cheerleading history happening right now and do you actually understand what they mean? With the introduction of Small Gym Summit and the controversy surrounding Flex divisions, the cheer world is buzzing with opinions, but very little clarity. That’s why we brought on Justin Carrier, one of the key decision-makers behind these changes, to break it all down. In this episode, he gives an unfiltered look at what’s really happening, why these shifts are being made, and how they impact athletes, gyms, and the future of the sport. We also take a powerful moment to honor Jeff Webb, whose vision built the foundation of modern cheerleading and continues to influence these major decisions today. Hear directly from Justin Carrier at Varsity on why Small Gym Summit was created and who it’s for Get real clarity on the Flex division changes and why they’re happening now Understand Jeff Webb’s lasting impact and how his legacy is shaping the future of cheer Press play now to hear it straight from the source and finally understand the changes everyone’s talking about. 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.

    39 min
  5. Why “Bad Judging” Is the Worst Excuse in Cheerleading

    MAR 25

    Why “Bad Judging” Is the Worst Excuse in Cheerleading

    What if the only thing standing between you and a championship is one tiny moment of lost focus? Whether you're a coach, parent, or athlete, you know how frustrating it is to put in months of work only to fall short when it matters most. In this episode, we break down real competition experiences, the emotional highs and lows of performance, and the hard truth about why even great teams don’t always win. If you’ve ever questioned judging, placements, or “what went wrong,” this conversation will hit home. Learn how elite teams bounce back from major setbacks and turn failure into fuel Understand the real reason teams lose even when they’re talented enough to win Discover the mindset shift that separates good athletes from championship performersHit play now to learn the mindset and lessons that could be the difference between falling short and finishing on top. 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.

    58 min
  6. Does All Star Cheer Need Small Gym Summit?

    MAR 18

    Does All Star Cheer Need Small Gym Summit?

    What’s really happening in all-star cheer right now and what does it mean for your cheerleaders and gyms? From USA Nationals and NCA staying in Houston to the latest USASF age grid updates and the launch of Small Gym Summit, this episode breaks down the cheer industry changes everyone is talking about. If you’re a cheer parent, coach, or athlete trying to make sense of tryout season, team placement, and what these shifts could mean for your next season, this conversation will help you feel more informed and more prepared. In this episode, you’ll get clarity on the biggest industry updates, a smarter way to think about tryout goals during “secret tryout season,” and honest perspective on hot topics like flex teams, open teams, team placement, and what really matters as athletes prepare for what’s next. Press play now to get the inside scoop on the latest cheer news and walk into tryout season with more confidence, strategy, and perspective. Let’s Talk Cheer Shownotes 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.

    36 min
  7. Inside NCA Nationals: The Full Weekend Recap from Houston

    MAR 10

    Inside NCA Nationals: The Full Weekend Recap from Houston

    Will three teams really pull off the impossible at NCA and what does it take to win when the pressure is at its absolute peak? If you’ve ever wondered what separates teams that crumble under championship pressure from teams that rise, this episode pulls you straight into the emotional, behind-the-scenes reality of All Star Nationals. From shaky warmups and day-one misses to mindset resets, comeback performances, and one unforgettable national title moment, this conversation shows what it really takes to lead, compete, and stay locked in when everything is on the line. In this episode, you’ll hear how to stay composed when nerves threaten to derail performance, why mindset and emotional control matter just as much as physical preparation, and what coaches can learn from the difference between talented teams and teams that truly earn a championship moment. Press play to get the real story behind a national championship weekend and walk away with lessons on pressure, leadership, and winning the right way. 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 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    1h 5m
  8. Secret Weapon for Cleaner Routines at NCA

    MAR 4

    Secret Weapon for Cleaner Routines at NCA

    What if the real reason your team isn’t leveling up has nothing to do with talent, and everything to do with mindset? As NCA approaches, emotions run high. Coaches second-guess their prep. Athletes feel the pressure. Cheer moms navigate the intensity of competition weekends. And everyone is asking the same question: Are we really ready? In this episode, we dive into what actually prepares a team for the big stage, and it’s not just full-outs and stunt reps. From mental rehearsal strategies to leadership books shaping team culture, to a behind-the-scenes look at the Pro Cheer League, this conversation pulls back the curtain on what separates good teams from championship teams. If you're heading into a major competition, thinking about tryouts, or simply want to understand what truly elevates athletes, this episode hits home. In this episode, you’ll learn: How mental imagery and “self-image” directly impact performance on competition day Why tried-and-true coaching methods often outperform flashy new strategies What really matters at tryouts, including a candid breakdown of skills, attitude, tumbling, and more Plus, we sit down with Maddie Gardner to talk about the evolution of cheer, the launch of the Pro Cheer League, and what’s next for the sport. If you want to walk into your next competition, or tryout season, feeling mentally sharper, strategically smarter, and fully locked in, press play now and get ahead before the mat even rolls out. 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 10m
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4.9
out of 5
196 Ratings

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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