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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Ever walked out of a competition thinking, “That was a winning routine…” and then watched your team place nowhere near where you expected? In this episode, Jason and Gina take you behind the curtain of all-star cheer season chaos, big events, tight scores, parent pressure, and the emotional whiplash of “we hit… but still didn’t win.” You’ll hear what it’s really like at massive nationals weekends (think 30,000+ athletes) and why so many parents feel blindsided when placements don’t match what their eyes and hearts, tell them. By listening, you’ll walk away with: A better understanding of what actually separates teams on today’s score sheets (and why “harder” doesn’t always mean “higher”) A healthier mindset for watching routines so you can support your athlete without letting tiny mistakes steal your joy Real-world cheer parent survival strategies, budget hacks, hotel food plans, and how to make travel weekends doable without going broke Press play to learn how to enjoy competition weekends more, stress less about placements, and finally understand what’s really happening when the scores come 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 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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.

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.

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.

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.