#177: TopCats Eras Series, Celebrating 30 Years of TopCats: DaWanda Bittle and Felicia Dawson

SummaryIn this episode of the ImPerfect Cheerleader podcast, host Jasmine Neely engages with former TopCats DaWanda Bittle and Felicia Dawson, celebrating their experiences and achievements during their tenures with the pro cheerleading squad. They share personal stories, lessons learned, memorable moments, and insights into the audition process, fitness expectations, and the camaraderie that defined their time as TopCats. The conversation also touches on the evolution of cheerleading standards and the impact of their experiences on their lives post-cheerleading. In this engaging conversation, the guests reflect on their experiences as captains of the TopCats cheerleading squad, discussing the challenges of leadership, the importance of fitness, and the impact of their roles on personal growth. They share insights on establishing an alumni association, honoring Black History Month, and memorable interactions with celebrities. The discussion also touches on finding motivation during tough times, embracing imperfection, and the significance of community and support within the team.Chapters00:00 Celebrating 30 Years of TopCats02:27 Personal Journeys and Achievements05:09 Lessons Learned from Cheerleading07:52 Memorable Experiences and Super Bowl Highlights10:31 The Audition Process and Preparation13:04 The London Super Bash Experience30:04 First Impressions of International Travel32:08 Cultural Experiences and NFL's Global Reach33:12 Tenure and Competition in the Cheerleading Squad38:45 Fitness Standards and Body Image in Cheerleading44:25 Leadership Challenges as Captains50:46 The Impact of Cheerleading on Personal Growth52:08 Establishing the Alumni Association54:54 Honoring Black History Month in the NFL01:00:40 Building Community and Support Among Dancers01:02:35 Memorable Performances and Celebrity Interactions01:06:42 Finding Motivation in Tough Times01:10:11 Embracing Imperfection and Self-Discovery01:15:44 Rapid Fire: Traditions and Favorite MomentsFollow @theprofessionalcheerleader on Instagram and @thepro.cheerleader on TikTok. DaWanda Bittle - Facebook, theofficialdbittle - InstagramFelicia Dawson - @whereintheworldisfee(IG), felicia r Dawson (FB) LinkedIn.com/in/feliciadawson