In this conversation, Kristen and Dr. Shih-Shan Chen discuss the critical topic of concussions in cheerleading, emphasizing the importance of awareness and education for parents and athletes. They explore the evolving landscape of co-ed stunting, the creation of the Stunt Showdown competition, and the balance Dr. Chen maintains between her demanding career as a pediatric neurosurgeon and her role as a cheer mom. The discussion highlights the need for safety, trust in coaching, and the fun aspect of cheerleading, while also addressing the serious nature of concussions and the importance of proper recovery protocols.

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Connect with Dr. Chen and Stunt Showdown: https://stuntshowdown.com/

https://www.instagram.com/stunt_showdown/

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In this engaging conversation, Victor Rosario, a trailblazer in the cheerleading industry, shares his journey and insights into the evolution of cheerleading. He discusses the innovative themes introduced in cheer routines, the importance of fostering a positive culture among athletes, and the milestones that have shaped the sport. Victor also highlights the future of cheerleading with the emergence of the Pro Cheer League, and emphasizes the significance of personal development and resilience in athletes.

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Kristen talks with Jason Larkins, host of the Let's Talk Cheer Podcast and author of Upside Down and Back Again, a Parent's Guide to All Star Cheerleading. They discuss the benefits of the new "Flex" divisions and how Varsity pushes the sport of cheer to be better.

Find Jason:

Let's Talk Cheer Podcast

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Almost every cheer parent has likely heard the words, “I think I want to quit" from their athlete at some point or another. In this episode, we’re diving into the tough, emotional conversations that come with your athlete questioning their place in cheer. Kristen walks you through why these feelings might come up, how to respond with empathy instead of panic, and the best ways to guide your child through the decision-making process—whether that means sticking it out or moving on.

If you’ve ever faced the “I want to quit” conversation (or want to be prepared for the day you do), this episode will give you the tools, perspective, and peace of mind to navigate it with confidence.

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I'm baaaaaack! After a summer break, the Cheer Mom Podcast returns with a new schedule and exciting updates! Tune in to hear big announcements, and how you can be part of the Cheer Mom community.

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Kristen discusses the emotional challenges and dynamics of evaluation season in cheerleading. She emphasizes the importance of managing expectations and supporting athletes (and ourselves!) through anxiety. The conversation also explores how parents can redefine success for their children beyond just outcomes, focusing on personal growth and character development.

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Apolla Socks are changing the cheer game, two feet at a time! Visit apollaperformance.com and use CHEERMOM2024 for 10% off!

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With the end-of-season emotions mixing with beginning-of-season pressure, it felt like the perfect moment to do a roundup episode about the most requested, most discussed, most “please help me, I’m lost in the YouTube comments” topic ever: Mental blocks.

Whether your athlete is deep in the weeds of a mental block or you just want to be ready when that inevitable moment comes (because let’s be real—it usually does), this episode is a must-listen. Share it with your cheer mom group chat. Save it for a rainy day. Let’s make tryout season feel slightly less unhinged.

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Full episodes referenced:

Debbie Love

Jeff Benson

Lain Lee

Tumble Chef

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Has The Summit lost its prestige? Is it too easy to get a bid? Do some teams not deserve a bid because of their low scores? Let's talk about it.

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Apolla Socks are changing the cheer game, two feet at a time! Visit apollaperformance.com and use CHEERMOM2024 for 10% off!

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Kristen discusses the importance of celebrating small victories in cheerleading, and how these moments contribute to the emotional growth of young athletes. She emphasizes the need for parents to recognize and appreciate the progress their children make, regardless of competition outcomes, fostering a positive environment that nurtures confidence and maturity.

Visit tccjewelry.com and enter code CHEERMOMPOD for 15% off your order

Apolla Socks are changing the cheer game, two feet at a time! Visit apollaperformance.com and use CHEERMOM2024 for 10% off!

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More and more, high schools are telling their athletes they can’t do All Star, and vice versa. So more athletes are having to choose, and it’s not always an easy, clear cut choice.

That depends on so much. It depends on where you live, the strength of either program, what you want to do during high school, after high school, and it just keeps going. In this episode, Kristen breaks down questions and factors to consider to help guide cheerleaders (and their parents) through the decision-making process.

Apolla Socks are changing the cheer game, two feet at a time! Visit apollaperformance.com and use CHEERMOM2024 for 10% off!

Work with me in Florida to capture your end-of-season memories!

plentyofsunshinephotography.com/cheer-sessions

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