Athlete Builder Ep. 134. Jena Robinson--More Than a Routine: The Mental Game of Competitive Cheer

What does it really take to compete at the highest level in college cheer? In this episode, we sit down with Jena Robinson, Head Cheer Coach at Marian University, to break down the physical, mental, and emotional demands of competitive cheer—and why it might be one of the most underrated sports out there. From two-minute routines under pressure to building a culture rooted in trust, resilience, and accountability, Jena shares what it takes to prepare athletes for the big stage—and for life beyond it. We dive into: How competitive cheer is scored (and why execution matters more than you think) Handling pressure, anxiety, and high-stakes performance Building a strong team culture in a high-trust sport Why "pressure is a privilege" The role of strength & conditioning in injury prevention Lessons athletes carry into life after sports Whether you're an athlete, coach, or parent, this episode is packed with insights on mental performance, consistency, and resilience. ⏱️ Chapters: 00:00 Intro & Background 03:00 Welcome to College Moment 08:20 Nationals Preview & Team Goals 12:40 How Cheer is Scored 17:00 Pressure & Performance 23:20 Handling Adversity 30:00 Culture & Accountability 36:40 Building Something Bigger Than Yourself 44:30 Failure & Growth Mindset 50:00 Execution vs Difficulty 58:00 Personal Insights & Favorites 01:02:20 Where to Find Jena 💬 Key Quote: "Consistency doesn't guarantee success—but inconsistency guarantees failure." 📚 Book Mentioned: Atomic Habits – James Clear 🔗 Connect with Jena: Instagram: @MarianCompetitiveCheer LinkedIn: Jena Robinson — If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to like, subscribe, and share with someone who needs to hear it. #AthleteBuilder #Cheerleading #MentalPerformance #Leadership #Resilience #CollegeSports AEA Institute: https://www.aea-neuro-fitness-academy.com/   Our podcast links.   Athlete Builder on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Athlete-Builder Athlete Builder on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/34QCcodvAqAgj7iwk3tdrj Athlete Builder on iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/athlete-builder/id1715521920 Athlete Builder on Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b5583cce-62bc-4611-ab54-ff367f41632d/athlete-builder   Our social media links. Athlete Builder on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/athlete_builder/ Athlete Builder on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/1athletebuilder Athlete Builder on X: https://x.com/AthleteBuilder Athlete Builder on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@athlete.builder Athlete Builder web page: https://athlete-builder.com Athlete Builder e-mail: [email protected]   Our links to services/products. Buy the Athlete Builder book on Amazon: https://a.co/d/9xiGOWQ Buy the Athlete Builder book on Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/athlete-builder-jim-beebe/1146362511?ean=9798218498382 Buy the Athlete Builder book in bulk at: https://bookpal.com/athlete-builder-the-blueprint-to-build-champion-athletes-9798218498382 Buy the Athlete Builder planner on Amazon: (COMING SOON!) Take the Athlete Builder course: https://athlete-builder.com/courses Schedule a time for a Game Plan Session for you to get started: https://link.closersoftware.com/widget/bookings/ab-gameplansession Book for speaking engagements: https://athlete-builder.com/speaking Buy Athlete Builder apparel and swag: https://athlete-builder.printify.me/products Register for the Athlete Builder newsletter: https://athlete-builder.com/newsletter Read the Athlete Builder blog: https://athlete-builder.com/blog Train at Unbreakable Athletics Academy in Plainfield, IN: https://unbreakableathleticsacademy.com Support our charities: the military, breast cancer, and disadvantaged youth: https://theufoundation.square.site   WIN THE DAY!