In this insightful episode of The Get Yo Ass Up Show, Candess Correll, a former Washington Redskins cheerleader, and Pro Bowl cheerleader shares her journey from the NFL to becoming a successful entrepreneur. Candess discusses her unique experiences as an African-American cheerleader in the league, her time at the Pro Bowl, and her proudest moments. Additionally, she offers valuable advice for aspiring dancers, delves into the work atmosphere at the Redskins organization, and shares safety tips for women in various industries. Candess reflects on her regrets, impactful actions, and plans in this engaging and inspiring conversation.
Cheerleading for the Washington Redskins: Candess discusses her five-year tenure as a cheerleader for the Washington Redskins, highlighting the significant presence of black cheerleaders on the team and how being a black NFL cheerleader or professional dancer in Washington DC was not unusual at the time.
Making it to the Pro Bowl: Candess shares her journey to the Pro Bowl, explaining how one cheerleader per team is selected each year as Girl of the Year and sent to the event. She proudly reflects on her achievement of receiving a Pro Bowl ring.
Differences between the Regular Season and Pro Bowl Game: Candess delves into the differences between regular-season games and the Pro Bowl, emphasizing the honor of being selected and the unique experience of cheering alongside cheerleaders from other teams.
Cheerleading at the Pro Bowl: Candess talks about her Pro Bowl cheerleading experience, including the packed schedule of activities and how it felt different from a regular Redskins game. She also touches on the previous years' lack of black cheerleaders at the Pro Bowl.
The Moment She Became a Pro Bowl Cheerleader: Candess shares the story of the unexpected announcement of her selection as a Pro Bowl cheerleader during halftime, her surprise, and her excitement that made headlines.
Proudest Moments as an NFL Cheerleader: Candess reflects on her proudest moments as an NFL cheerleader, including traveling overseas for military appreciation tours and inspiring young girls who looked up to her as a role model.
Advice for Aspiring Dancers: Candess offers valuable advice for young girls aspiring to be dancers, emphasizing confidence, staying true to oneself, and understanding one's role and how to market oneself effectively.
Standing Out as a Dancer: Candess explains how she stood out as a dancer by doing her assignment, knowing her job, and figuring out how to benefit from situations, and encourages other dancers to adopt this mindset.
Work Atmosphere as an NFL Cheerleader: Candess shares her positive experience as an NFL cheerleader for the Redskins, where she felt valued and respected. However, she acknowledges that work relationships can sometimes be complex and challenging.
Workplace Situation at Redskins Organization: Candess discusses allegations against Daniel Snyder and the workplace situation at the Redskins organization, stating that while she did not personally experience any disrespect or mistreatment, she knows of situations through others confiding in her, resulting in a weird workplace environment.
Perception of NFL Cheerleaders and Calendar Trips: Candess speaks on the perception of NFL cheerleaders within the corporate structure of the NFL and her experiences on calendar trips, exploring the mix of genuine relationships and inappropriate interactions with fans and sponsors.
Safety Tips and Tinder/Stalker Experiences: Candess talks about her experience with Tinder, stalking incidents, and safety tips for women, particularly in the real estate industry. She stresses the importance of being aware of one's surroundings and having safety tools like a knife or taser.
Regrets and Missed Opportunities: Candess expresses regret for not kneeling in support of Colin Kaepernick and discusses her admiration for him. She also shares her thoughts on the missed opportunities of other black athletes to support Kaepernick.
Impactful Actions: Candess discusses alternative ways she made an impact without losing her job during the early stages of the movement, such as volunteering at inner-city schools and attending football games.
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