Some people defended it.

Some called it “normal.”

Others said, “That’s just competitive cheer.”

In this episode, Danielle Johnston and Dan Cotton break down where the line actually is between intense coaching and toxic coaching — and why so many people in the cheer industry have become desensitized to behavior that should never be acceptable.

They talk about:

Why some coaches confuse intimidation with leadership

The difference between accountability and emotional outbursts

Why parents sometimes normalize aggressive coaching behavior

How gym culture either permits or prevents these situations

What owners should do when a coach loses control

And how coaches can become more self-aware before they reach that breaking point

This conversation isn’t about “soft coaching.”

It’s about leadership, emotional regulation, athlete safety, and creating environments where athletes can actually thrive.

If you’ve ever questioned whether a coach crossed the line — or if you’re trying to become a better leader yourself — this episode is an important conversation for the entire cheer industry.