More Than Counts

Judge Mimi
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More Than Counts is a podcast about what really goes into cheerleading routines... beyond the eight counts! Hosted by cheer Judge Mimi, this show brings choreographers, coaches, athletes, and industry leaders together to break down choreography, creativity, and the stories behind the routines you see on the mat. Each episode explores what makes routines special, what actually hits the scoresheet, and what cheerleading teaches us about teamwork, leadership, and life. This podcast is for cheerleading coaches, choreographers, parents, and athletes who want to see routines differently, appreciate the process behind them, and better understand why cheerleading is truly More Than Counts.

  1. 3d ago

    025 David Sims - Inside Travel Cheer & Dance + YCADA

    What if there were more than one pathway to competitive cheerleading? David Sims joins More Than Counts to take us inside YCADA and the evolution of Travel Cheer & Dance, an alternative competitive pathway built for programs that don’t necessarily fit into the traditional All Star model. We talk about where youth and recreation cheer fits into the history of our sport, why Travel Cheer was created, and what makes its approach different. Then, of course, we get into scoring. David breaks down a system where difficulty isn’t capped, every skill has value, execution comes with real risk, and coaches have more freedom to build a strategy around the athletes they actually have. We also review a listener-submitted routine from Carlton All Stars and talk choreography, floor use, creativity, movement, and why full-team tumbling might deserve a comeback. Because sometimes growing the sport isn’t about getting everyone onto the same path—it’s about creating more paths for people to stay in it. Chapters 00:00 The Evolution of Cheerleading02:59 Youth and Recreation Cheerleading23:55 Precision-like Scoring in Cheerleading25:47 Strategic Decision-Making in Cheerleading28:19 Barriers to Entry in Cheerleading29:14 Competitive Pathways in Cheerleading30:02 Scoring Systems and Comparative Aspects39:23 Routine Review and Feedback42:25 The Essence of Cheerleading

  2. Aug 3

    024 Jason Larkins - What it Really Takes to Run a Cheer Gym

    Most people know Jason Larkins from his podcast, social media, or years of coaching championship teams. But behind the routines and the highlights is another role that often goes unseen: gym director. In this episode, Jason shares how he accidentally found cheerleading, the journey that led him from athlete to coach, and eventually to leading a successful all-star program. We dive into what really happens during team placements, why some of the hardest coaching decisions happen long before athletes ever step onto the floor, and the leadership lessons he's learned after more than two decades in the sport. We also watch two of American Cheer's routines from last season, breaking down the strategy behind their choreography, creativity, and scoring decisions while discussing how routines evolve throughout the season. Whether you're a coach, gym owner, athlete, or parent, this conversation offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at the decisions that shape a program long before competition day. Takeaways The transition from athlete to coach is a significant and impactful journey.The role of a gym director involves making tough decisions, managing team dynamics, and dealing with the stress of team placement. Dedication is key to winningCoaching and choreography play a crucial role in team success Chapters 00:00 The Journey into Cheerleading03:05 From Athlete to Coach11:00 The Role of a Gym Director20:56 Team Placement and Decision-Making25:05 Coaching and Team Dynamics27:27 Perfect Opening28:10 Showmanship and Creativity29:01 Choreography and Stunts32:50 Dance Difficulty and Execution37:11 Motivating the Team38:48 Personal Achievements and Legacy41:03 Team Black's Journey44:39 Pyramid and Dance Performance48:49 Competition and Coaching Insights

  3. Jul 27

    023 Judge Mimi - You Asked. I Answered. (And Reviewed Your Routines.)

    What catches a judge's eye in the first 15 seconds of a routine? What separates winning programs from everyone else? And what would I change if I had one chance to help your team score higher? In this special solo episode of More Than Counts, I'm answering your questions about judging, coaching, business, social media, and balancing life as a mom while traveling the world as an international cheer judge. Along the way, I review listener-submitted routines from around the world, sharing one thing each team does exceptionally well and one area I'd focus on to maximize their scores. Whether you're a coach looking for fresh ideas, an athlete curious about what judges really notice, or someone who simply loves the sport, this episode is packed with practical insights you can bring back to the gym. Chapters: 0:00 — Introduction and what judges notice in the first 15 seconds3:32 — Routine review: Fame All-Star Vixens8:54 — What I wish I had when I started in cheer10:42 — Routine review: Coventry Dynamite C415:17 — How much a team’s social media presence matters18:32 — Routine review: Airborne Elite All Star Stealth22:59 — Scariest decision made25:43 — Routine review: Cheer United Solar Sister30:01 — Coaching mini/youth vs senior athletes32:12 — Routine review: Twisted Cheer and Dance — Rain35:17 — The new IASF scorecard40:00 — Routine review: Paris Cheer Nights44:43 — Balancing being a mom with traveling46:29 — Routine review: Laser Cheer Academy Ruby Royal51:34 — Biggest mistakes coaches make53:00 — Routine review: All-Star Evolution Glory56:53 — What cheer needs to attract fans outside the sport62:37 — Routine review: TNT All-Star Detonator66:23 — How to connect with your community and school68:16 — What winning programs consistently do69:15 — Routine review: Cheer Empire Athletic Kings72:38 — Did you expect social media to become a big part of your career?74:26 — Routine review: Ace Athletic Probe77:46 — What the cheer industry should look like in 10 years

  4. Jul 20

    022 Kelvin Lam - What Elite Stunt Coaches See That You Don't

    Kelvin Lam has spent decades asking a simple question: why do great stunts actually work? From his early days at the University of Hawaii to Team USA and becoming one of the most respected stunt educators in the sport, Kelvin has built a reputation for challenging conventional wisdom and helping coaches see stunting through a different lens. In this episode, we dive into the fundamentals that make stunts stronger, safer, and more efficient, while unpacking some of the biggest myths that have been passed down through generations of cheerleading. We also watch routines together, breaking down what elite coaches notice in real time and why seemingly small technical decisions can have a lasting impact on an athlete's development. Whether you're coaching Level 1 athletes or building Worlds-level routines, this conversation will change the way you think about progressions, technique, and the future of stunt coaching. TakeawaysWhy elite coaches see stunts differently.The biggest misconceptions in stunt technique.How small technical choices shape long-term athlete development.Why creativity starts with strong fundamentals.The role of progressions in building safer, more consistent stunts.What coaches should really be looking for when troubleshooting a stunt. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Early Cheer Experience03:00 Transition to University of Hawaii05:58 Innovative Video Filming and Technique Instruction07:01 Underrated Fundamental in Stunting08:02 Shoulder Positioning in Stunting09:04 Scoring and Creativity in Cheerleading27:01 Crowd Interaction and CrowdScore30:04 Overcoming Frustration and Setbacks48:30 Innovative Techniques and Routines56:06 Forward-Thinking Technique Choices57:09 Maxing Out Stunt Difficulty58:14 Alignment and Weight Distribution in Stunts59:33 Proper Technique and Progressions01:10:42 The Role of Pyramids in Maximizing Points01:12:38 Teaching and Practicing Proper Technique

  5. Jul 13

    021 Jake Chester - What Makes Cheer Dance Actually Score

    What makes a dance score? Is it more movement? More difficulty? Or is it something else entirely? In this episode of More Than Counts, Judge Mimi sits down with choreographer and coach Jake to explore one of the most debated parts of a routine: dance. Together, they unpack what makes choreography memorable, why readability matters just as much as difficulty, and how seamless transitions, musicality, and visual design can elevate a routine. Jake also shares how an unexpected background in marching band shaped his choreography philosophy, what he's learned coaching athletes from Level 2 through Level 6, and why creating routines that fit the team will always outperform trying to force complexity. As always, they put theory into practice—breaking down routines from Cheer Athletics' Ocelots, a developing 4.2 team, and a listener-submitted routine, discussing pacing, formations, cleaning, recovery, and the small details that can make a big difference on the scoresheet. Whether you're a coach, choreographer, athlete, or simply love the creative side of cheerleading, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at what judges actually see—and what makes great choreography stand out. Takeaways Importance of Readability in DanceBalancing Difficulty and Execution Choreography and Routine DesignTeam Development and Progression Chapters 00:00 The Art of Dance01:39 Choreography and Coaching Journey02:36 Influence of Gymnastics and Marching Band03:46 The Role of Music and Dance in Cheerleading20:38 Dance Cleaning and Strategy26:38 Visual Movement and Showmanship27:40 The O'Baby Queens28:51 The NCA Experience30:15 The Aftermath32:18 The Oslo Routine33:31 Building a 4.2 Team48:57 Routine Analysis

  6. Jul 6

    020 John Newby - Can You Make a Living as a Professional Cheerleader?

    Professional cheerleading is no longer just an idea—it's becoming a reality. In this episode, Judge Mimi sits down with John Newby, Commissioner of the Professional Cheer League (PCL) and EVP of Varsity International, for a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to build a professional league from the ground up. They discuss the vision behind the PCL, why the league is moving to a head-to-head format, what new games are coming in Season 2, and how the league is creating more opportunities for athletes to shine. John also shares how athlete compensation works, the challenges of bringing international athletes into the league, and what still needs to happen before professional cheer becomes a full-time career path. To wrap up the conversation, John and Judge Mimi watch one of his favorite PCL routines together, breaking down the moments that made it unforgettable and what fans might have missed. Whether you're an athlete dreaming of competing professionally, a coach following the evolution of the sport, or simply curious about where cheerleading is headed, this episode offers an inside look at the decisions shaping its future. TakeawaysWhy the PCL was created and the vision driving its growth.How the new head-to-head format changes the fan and athlete experience.What athletes are paid and what needs to happen for professional cheer to become a full-time career.The challenges—and opportunities—of expanding the league internationally.Why building a professional sport takes more than great athletes—it takes trust, collaboration, and a shared vision. Chapters 00:00 The New Format and Vision for the Future20:35 Visa Requirements and Logistics26:08 Dallas Drive's Performance and Props Feedback31:32 Scheduling and Event Logistics

  7. Jun 29

    019 Kaden Koz - The Details That Separate Good Routines From Great Ones

    From becoming a self-proclaimed "gym rat" chasing standing tucks to competing with GymTyme Chrome at Worlds and building some of Virginia's most recognizable themed routines, Kaden Koz has seen cheerleading from nearly every angle. In this episode, we dive into the creative side of choreography: what actually makes a routine memorable, how themed routines come to life, and why crowd engagement matters just as much as difficulty. Kaden also shares the incredible story of the overnight changes GymTyme Chrome made between Day 1 and Finals at Worlds, offering a rare look at the strategy, decision-making, and trust that go into chasing a championship. As always, we wrap up by reviewing a listener-submitted routine, breaking down the details that elevate great performances. Whether you're an athlete, coach, choreographer, or simply love the sport, this conversation is packed with practical insights and behind-the-scenes stories that remind us great routines are built long before they ever take the floor. Takeaways Transition from diving to cheerleadingImportance of crowd response in cheer routines The importance of unassisted stuntsThe impact of COVID-19 on routines and competitions Chapters 00:00 The Journey into Cheerleading05:05 Transition to College Cheerleading20:53 Competing at Worlds with Gym Time All-Star Chrome28:36 The Art of Unassisted Stunts34:10 High School Coaching and Success46:58 Planning and Preparation for Future Seasons

  8. Jun 22

    018 Chris Cox - Building Moments, Not Just Routines

    Chris Cox didn't set out to become a choreographer. He simply fell in love with the creative side of cheerleading and never stopped chasing it. In this episode, Chris shares his journey from athlete, to coach, to building one of the industry's most respected choreography brands. We dive into what makes a routine memorable, how movement and formations can create powerful visual moments, and why great choreography is about more than just checking boxes on a score sheet. Along the way, we break down two standout routines—Desert Elite Mavericks Renegade and Prodigy Twilight—and explore the unique challenges of choreographing for small teams, non-tumbling divisions, and World Championship contenders. Whether you're a coach, choreographer, athlete, or fan of the sport, this conversation is a reminder that the best routines aren't just built around skills—they're built around people, creativity, and the moments that make us feel something. Chapters 00:00 The Journey from Athlete to Choreographer07:15 Collaboration and Feedback in Choreography16:38 Misconceptions About Good Choreography21:41 Challenges of Non-Tumbling Division27:12 Growth and Development in Cheerleading32:47 Routine Review and Analysis

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About

More Than Counts is a podcast about what really goes into cheerleading routines... beyond the eight counts! Hosted by cheer Judge Mimi, this show brings choreographers, coaches, athletes, and industry leaders together to break down choreography, creativity, and the stories behind the routines you see on the mat. Each episode explores what makes routines special, what actually hits the scoresheet, and what cheerleading teaches us about teamwork, leadership, and life. This podcast is for cheerleading coaches, choreographers, parents, and athletes who want to see routines differently, appreciate the process behind them, and better understand why cheerleading is truly More Than Counts.

Information

  • Creator
    Judge Mimi
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    25
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Judge Mimi
  • Show Website
    More Than Counts

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