Why Are Cheer Gym Owners Struggling More Than Ever in 2026?

In this episode of The MotUS Edge Podcast, Stacy Rowe and Casey Jones sit down with returning guest Sean Timmons, the new Executive Director of MotUS, for a raw and honest conversation about the real challenges facing cheer gym owners in 2026. From skyrocketing rent and rising operating costs to burnout, leadership, business growth, and adapting after COVID, this episode dives deep into what it truly takes to survive and thrive in the all-star cheer industry today.   Sean shares lessons learned from decades in cheerleading, gym ownership support, event production, and leadership development while offering practical advice for gym owners, coaches, and business leaders trying to build sustainable success without losing their passion. The conversation also explores customer experience, retention, staff development, innovation, and why staying humble and adaptable matters more than ever.   This episode is perfect for all-star cheer gym owners, cheer coaches, dance studio owners, youth sports entrepreneurs, event producers, and parents who want a behind-the-scenes look at the realities of running a successful cheer business in today's economy.   *******************************************   Connect with the MotUS Team:   Online | www.themotusedge.com   Email | [email protected]   Facebook | www.facebook.com/joinmotus   Instagram | @joinmotus   *******************************************   Prime Alliance   www.theprimealliance.com   www.theoneprimefinals.com   Facebook | www.facebook.com/theoneprimefinals   Instagram | @theoneprimefinals   *******************************************     Be sure to check out our other projects too:   S.R. Fabrico Author • www.srfabrico.com   Cheerfest • www.cheerfest.com   The CheerExpo • www.thecheerexpo.com   Stage 8 Dance Brands - www.stage8dancebrands.com   *******************************************   Production by Clanton Creative   www.clantoncreative.com   Custom Music through CheerSounds