It’s pageant week—are you mentally prepared to win? In this episode of The Pageant Masterclass, Ashley Williams Allen (Miss South Carolina USA 2002, veteran judge, and pageant coach) shares exactly how to keep a winner’s mindset when the pressure is at its highest. Whether you're competing in Miss America, Miss USA, National American Miss, Miss High School America, Galaxy Pageants, Miss Teen Canada, or the State Miss American Coed Pageants, these expert tips will help you avoid the biggest mental traps that cost contestants the crown.

You’ll learn how to:

• Stop comparing yourself to other contestants
• Stay confident in high-pressure environments
• Reframe negative thoughts and reduce pageant anxiety
• Show kindness and leadership that judges can see
• Use gratitude, nutrition, and preparation to stay sharp all week

This is your ultimate mindset game plan for pageant success. Don’t let self-doubt sabotage months of hard work—tune in and get mentally crowned before finals night.

Do political questions make you panic during your pageant prep? You’re not alone—and this episode of The Pageant Masterclass is here to help. Host Ashley Williams Allen (Miss South Carolina USA 2002, pageant judge, and coach) breaks down exactly how to tackle hot-button political questions with poise, clarity, and confidence.

Whether you’re competing in Miss USA, Miss America, National American Miss, Miss Volunteer America, Miss Collegiate America, or another pageant system, this episode walks you through real political interview questions—from abortion and immigration to Elon Musk, Ukraine, Gaza, and more. Plus, you’ll learn:

✅ How to learn pageant media interview tips that impress judges

✅ What judges are really looking for when they ask political questions

✅ How to sound informed without having a political science degree

✅ What to say when you don’t know the answer

✅ How to tie tough topics back to your platform or personal story

✅ Why being gracious and well-spoken makes you stand out as a queen

You'll get real pageant practice questions about politics—plus a downloadable PDF (below) so you can rehearse with your truth squad..

Whether you're competing for your state title or gearing up for nationals, this is the pageant interview coaching session you didn’t know you needed. It’s time to turn your fear into confidence and your voice into your superpower.

If you're ready to slay your interview and show the judges you're informed, articulate, and ready to lead—this is the episode for you.

🎧 Grab your notebook. Hit pause after each question. Practice your answers. You’ve got this.

👑 For 1:1 coaching with Ashley, visit pageantmasterclass.com

📥 Download the PDF of political interview questions

🎙 Recommended daily news podcasts to stay informed

Breaking Points with Krystal and Saagar

Unbiased Politics with Jordan Berman

The Briefing with Jen Psaki

The Charlie Kirk Show

🔗 Links Mentioned in This Episode

📽️ Jennifer Lawrence’s Iconic Oscar Fall (Watch the clip) See how imperfection became endearing — and a winning moment. 👉 Watch on YouTube

📅 Book a Private Pageant Coaching Session with Ashley Need help crafting your opening statement, refining your interview, or finding your winning mindset? 👉 Fill out the form here

🎙️ EPISODE DESCRIPTION

In this episode of The Pageant Masterclass, host Ashley Williams Allen gives you the ultimate last-minute pageant prepplan to help you walk into competition week with confidence, clarity, and queen energy. From interview skills to mindset mastery, this is your go-to guide to make the most of the final days before the crown.

You’ll get free pageant tips, a proven pageant interview game plan, and a reminder that the most powerful transformation happens on the inside. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned titleholder, this episode is packed with pageant self-improvement strategies straight from a trusted pageant insider.

👑 CHAPTERS

00:00 – Welcome + Pageant Prep Mindset

01:10 – Last-Minute Interview Prep: What you should be doing daily

03:40 – Writing Your Opening Statement: Make it personal, not perfect

06:30 – Talking About Your Community Service Initiative: Connect your “why” with your “what”

09:25 – The #1 Key to Winning: Mindset is everything

11:00 – Limiting Beliefs: Why they sabotage your performance

14:00 – Encouragement: You are the queen – now act like it 💫

✨ If you’re prepping for pageant week, this is your pep talk, your strategy session, and your heart check — all in one.

#PageantPrep #PageantInterviewGamePlan #PageantSelfImprovement #FreePageantTips #PageantInterviewCoaching #PageantInsider

Description

In this episode of The Pageant Master Class: How to Win a Pageant, Ashley Williams Allen dive deeps into the lessons that pageants teach beyond the crown. Guest Kristen White, a pageant winner turned business powerhouse, shares how the skills you learn in pageantry can drive career success, help you handle stress, and fuel professional growth. Kristen shares powerful insights on how to overcome self-doubt, use pageant training to excel in high-pressure environments, and how to clear the mechanism for ultimate focus and clarity when life gets overwhelming. Whether you’re navigating a career transition, launching a new venture, or just looking to build confidence, this episode is packed with actionable advice that will empower you to succeed under pressure and thrive in life’s biggest challenges.

Key takeaways and timestamps:

• [01:45] The Importance of Discipline & Goal Setting: Kristen explains how pageant training is like career preparation, and why discipline and clear goals are essential for success.
• [06:30] Handling Pressure and Different Personalities: Kristen discusses how pageants teach you to stay focused and work with diverse personalities under pressure, which is invaluable in any career.
• [12:10] Clearing the Mechanism: The concept of "clearing the mechanism" in both pageants and professional life—staying focused and blocking out distractions to perform at your best.
• [17:00] Avoiding Gossip and Negative Energy: How negative energy and gossip can derail progress, and Kristen's tips on staying positive and focused on your goals.
• [22:00] Using Pageant Skills in Professional Life: Kristen talks about how pageant skills translate to real-world professional success, including managing stress, public speaking, and presenting yourself with confidence.
• [27:45] The Power of Professionalism and Positivity: How maintaining a professional demeanor and a positive mindset can help you succeed in any field, just as it does on the pageant stage.

Follow and Connect: Find Kristen on Instagram @OneKristenWhite to stay updated on her career journey and upcoming projects, including her role in the new film How to Make Anyone Fall in Love with You.

In this exclusive episode of The Pageant Masterclass, host Ashley Williams Allen sits down with Kristen White, a highly respected hair and makeup artist, pageant judge, and the former Miss Black USA. Known for her expertise across pageantry and the entertainment industry, Kristen shares invaluable, no-nonsense advice for pageant contestants looking to stand out. From crafting the perfect headshot to nailing the interview, Kristen’s tips offer a winning edge.

Tune in to hear what judges are really looking for and how you can best present yourself across every phase of competition.

Timestamps:

• 00:00 - Introduction to Kristen White and her pageant/entertainment background
• 04:20 - Essential advice on creating a natural and authentic pageant headshot
• 12:00 - How to make your application bio resonate with judges
• 20:15 - Strategies for calming nerves and connecting with judges in interviews
• 30:45 - Fitness and discipline insights for the swimsuit/fitness competition
• 45:00 - Selecting the perfect evening gown to showcase yourself, not just the dress
• 1:00:00 - Handling on-stage questions like a pro
• 1:15:40 - Why preparation and real-world feedback are key to a winning talent performance

Key Takeaways:

• Headshot Tips: Kristen emphasizes the importance of a natural look that genuinely reflects who you are. Overly retouched photos can be a disconnect when you meet the judges in person.
• Application Bio: Make it personal! Use real-life stories that align with your answers, allowing your authentic self to shine through on paper and in person.
• Swimsuit/Fitness Prep: Judges aren’t just looking for body type; they’re assessing dedication and discipline. Show a lifestyle commitment that’s reflected in your confidence and fitness.
• Evening Gown Selection: Choose a dress that complements you entirely. Kristen advises selecting gowns that enhance your natural beauty rather than overshadowing it.
• On-Stage Questions: Treat on-stage questions like conversations. Blocking out the audience and focusing on the questioner helps you deliver calm, genuine answers.
• Talent Performance: Kristen advises rehearsing in front of different audiences to receive honest feedback, which can help refine your performance for a judging panel.

Follow and Connect: Find Kristen on Instagram @OneKristenWhite to stay updated on her career journey and upcoming projects, including her role in the new film How to Make Anyone Fall in Love with You.

Don’t miss the second part of this interview next week, where Kristen dives deeper into pageant wisdom and life insights.

Episode Overview:

In this episode of The Pageant Masterclass, host Ashley Williams Allen interviews Shelly Bramhall, a veteran pageant judge, former pageant director, and choreographer for the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. Shelly shares her unique journey from dance to pageantry, offering actionable advice for contestants at every level. From selecting the right talent to perfecting your interview technique, Shelly provides essential tips that will help contestants stand out while staying true to themselves. Whether you’re preparing for your first pageant or looking to refine your skills, this episode is packed with wisdom on how to present the most authentic version of yourself.

Episode Highlights with Timestamps:

• [01:00] – Introduction to Shelly Bramhall and her career with the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders.
• [01:53] – Shelly’s early start in dance and transition into choreography.
• [02:37] – How Shelly entered the pageant world and became a judge.
• [07:09] – Shelly’s talent advice: Stay within your expertise for a competitive edge.
• [10:24] – Why natural, minimally retouched headshots make a strong impact.
• [12:04] – Shelly’s tips for crafting a concise and authentic pageant bio.
• [13:20] – How to excel in the interview portion: Being yourself is key.
• [15:02] – Shelly’s approach to swimsuit and fitness: Confidence is everything.
• [16:23] – Evening gown advice: Staying age-appropriate and mindful of how your gown looks from all angles.
• [19:18] – Getting real, honest feedback on your talent before competition.
• [21:44] – How to handle the on-stage question: Listen carefully and be concise.

Notable Quotes:

• "Be the best version of yourself. Judges don’t want to see a painted version of who you think they want—you just need to be you." – Shelly Bramhall
• "In the talent portion, it’s not just about being good. It’s about being entertaining and competitive on a national level." – Shelly Bramhall
• "A well-crafted bio is real, concise, and sets the tone for your interview." – Ashley Williams Allen

Connect with Shelly Bramhall:

• Follow Shelly Bramhall on Instagram: @shellybramhall
• Learn more about the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders at: @dccheerleaders

Resources & Links:

• Stay connected with The Pageant Masterclass: @thepageantmasterclass
• For personalized pageant coaching and guidance, visit pageantmasterclass.com

In this episode of The Pageant Masterclass, Ashley Williams Allen sits down with Kristen Dalton Wolfe, Miss USA 2009, board-certified mental health coach, author, and host of The Kristen Dalton Wolfe Show. Kristen shares her personal pageant journey, the importance of self-discovery, and her insights into winning the crown. If you're a pageant contestant, whether you're competing in the Miss USA or Miss America system, this episode is packed with valuable tips on maintaining confidence, preparing for interviews, and presenting your best self on stage.

Key Takeaways:

• Kristen's journey from small-town pageants to winning Miss USA
• How to handle pageant disappointments and stay motivated
• The significance of personal branding and clarity in interviews
• Tips for standing out in headshots, evening gowns, and on-stage questions
• The importance of choosing the right support team and coach

Show Notes with Timestamps:

• 02:04 - 05:03: Advice for pageant contestants feeling discouraged—focusing on personal growth over results.
• 07:12 - 11:03: The importance of confidence and taking judges off a pedestal; how to flip the narrative to impress judges.
• 15:04 - 20:00: Tips for each pageant area—headshots, bios, interviews, and staying anchored before walking into an interview.
• 24:19 - 27:02: Choosing the right evening gown color and style that reflects your essence; Kristen’s personal gown choice story.
• 27:03 - 31:00: Navigating the on-stage question with a calm and prepared mindset—how Kristen handled a tricky question at Miss USA.
• 31:01 - 34:52: Building the right support team and finding a coach who empowers rather than diminishes you.

Connect with Kristen Dalton Wolfe:

• http://kristendaltonwolfe.com/
• Instagram: @kristenjdalton
• Kristen's book: The Sparkle Effect

Connect with Ashley Williams Allen

• pageantmasterclass.com
• Instagram: @thepageantmasterclass

Are you a seasoned pageant contestant who isn’t seeing the results you want? Wondering if your platform might be holding you back from the crown?

In this episode of The Pageant Masterclass, Ashley Williams Allen, a former Miss South Carolina USA, experienced pageant judge, and TV producer, dives deep into the reasons why your pageant platform might be the problem. Learn how to evaluate and revamp your platform strategy to make a lasting impact on judges and audiences alike!

Episode Highlights:

• The Power of a Pageant Platform: Why It Matters Time Code: 00:02:34:04 - 00:03:04:09 Discover how a strong platform showcases your passion and aligns with your personal brand, making it a major factor in pageant competitions.
• Building Your Truth Squad: The Key to Honest Feedback Time Code: 00:00:40:06 - 00:02:06:29 Learn why having a “Truth Squad” of objective, discerning people is crucial for receiving honest feedback and avoiding bias from close friends and family.
• Selecting a Winning Platform: Finding What Resonates Time Code: 00:04:16:23 - 00:05:24:11 Explore how to choose a platform that genuinely connects with you and engages a broader audience, ensuring it reflects your true passion.
• Measuring Platform Success: Beyond Social Media Metrics Time Code: 00:06:33:22 - 00:07:56:26 Understand how to set clear, measurable goals for your platform that go beyond likes and shares, including funds raised and tangible community impact.
• The Role of Authenticity in Pageant Success Time Code: 00:09:14:19 - 00:09:35:11 Discover how being true to yourself and embracing authenticity can help you stand out and connect with judges on a deeper level.
• Elevating the Pageant System: The Impact of a Strong Platform Time Code: 00:08:27:21 - 00:09:04:04 Learn how a well-defined platform not only benefits you but also positively influences the pageant system, attracting sponsors, media attention, and future contestants.

If you need personalized coaching, visit pageantmasterclass.com to book a one-on-one session with Ashley Williams Allen.

Follow us on Instagram @thepageantmasterclass for daily tips and inspiration.

Don’t forget to subscribe to The Pageant Masterclass for more insider tips on how to win your next pageant!

In this episode of The Pageant Master Class, host Ashley Williams Allen sits down with Shane Arrington from TLC’s hit series King of the Crown to reveal the secrets to nailing your pageant interview. Whether you're a first-time contestant or a seasoned pageant queen, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you shine in front of the judges. Shane shares his expert insights on how to perfect your interview skills, stay confident under pressure, and make a lasting impression. If you're serious about winning your next pageant, this is the episode you can't afford to miss!

Key Takeaways:

• Conquering Interview Anxiety: Shane shares strategies to help contestants feel at ease during interviews, emphasizing the importance of being genuine and confident, regardless of the questions asked.
• The Importance of Authenticity: Discover why polished answers can sometimes backfire, and why letting your personality shine is key to making a lasting impression.
• Handling Hot Topics & Current Events: Learn how to articulate your thoughts on controversial subjects without fear of judgment, and why it's crucial to stay informed in today's politically charged environment.
• The Role of Headshots in Pageants: Shane offers advice on selecting the perfect headshot—one that truly represents you and leaves a positive, lasting impression on judges.

Whether you're preparing for your first pageant or looking to refine your interview skills, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you stand out in the competitive world of pageantry.

Featured in This Episode:

• Shane Arrington: Pageant judge and interview coach from TLC's King of the Crown.Follow Shane on Instagram: @sarton23
• Ashley Williams Allen: Host of The Pageant Master Class and former Miss South Carolina USA and television producer.

Timestamps:

• [01:22] Why interviews are the scariest part of any pageant
• [02:22] Shane’s journey into pageant coaching and starring on TLC
• [03:18] Handling nerves and staying authentic during interviews
• [05:07] The importance of current events and giving a genuine opinion
• [06:31] Balancing polish with authenticity in interviews
• [08:14] Why over-preparing can lead to robotic answers
• [10:25] Selecting a headshot that truly represents you
• [12:45] Advice on filling out your pageant application
• [14:18] Managing your personal social media presence for pageants
• [15:08] Choosing the right evening gown
• [16:04] Handling the on-stage interview and managing nerves

Subscribe & Listen:

• Listen on Spotify | Apple Podcasts
• Follow us on Instagram: @ThePageantMasterClass
• For coaching inquiries: PageantMasterClass.com

In this episode of The Pageant Masterclass, former Miss South Carolina USA, Ashley Williams Allen, shares her expert insights on mastering the pageant interview. With over 20 years of experience as a television producer for hit shows like America's Got Talent, The Bachelor, and Dancing with the Stars, Ashley knows what it takes to captivate an audience and impress a panel of judges. Drawing from her extensive experience as a seasoned pageant judge and industry insider, Ashley reveals the secrets to standing out in the interview room and making a lasting impression.

Key Takeaways with Time Code:

Understanding the Pageant System: Why it’s essential to research the organization and pageant system you’re competing in to tailor your responses and align with their values. [03:40]

Navigating Hot Topics: How to articulate your opinions on challenging subjects without offending or alienating judges, even when they don’t align with your views. [05:15]

The Role of Vulnerability: What to say when you don't know what to say. Find out why embracing vulnerability and honesty can set you apart from the competition and make you a standout contestant. [07:01]

Trying to Control the Interview: How to ensure your interview is going the way you want it to. [07:49] Winning over the Mean Judge: Understanding what the judging panel is looking for. [09:39]

The Importance of Authenticity: Learn why being your true self is crucial in pageant interviews and how judges can spot inauthentic answers from a mile away. [11:24]

Why Listen? If you’re preparing for a pageant interview, this episode is packed with practical tips and insider knowledge that will give you the competitive edge you need. Whether you’re a first-time contestant or a seasoned pageant veteran, Ashley’s advice will help you connect authentically with judges and showcase your unique strengths.

Resources Mentioned: Download the Truth Squad Guide: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1pbDB30Ml0Tr8GpNX2O43FKF1zmbratk7/view?usp=share_link

Sign Up for One-on-One Coaching – Get personalized coaching from to help you prepare for your next pageant interview. *Use Promo Code: PODLISTENER for 15% off of your session! http://pageantmasterclass.com