Why We Keep Making the Same Mistakes

In this episode of the Cheer Biz Podcast, Dan Cotton asks an important question: Why does the cheer industry keep making the same mistakes over and over again? After more than 25 years in all star cheer, Dan reflects on several trends that continue to cycle through the industry despite years of evidence showing they often create new challenges instead of lasting solutions. From scholarship programs and free cheer initiatives to the growing popularity of destination events, Dan explores why certain ideas continue to resurface and what gym owners, coaches, and industry leaders can learn from the past. This episode is not about criticizing innovation or new ideas. It's about recognizing patterns, learning from experience, and avoiding the tendency to repeat decisions that have already produced unintended consequences. Dan discusses: Why scholarship-based programs often create challenges for gyms and families The ongoing debate around free cheer and athlete incentives The impact of destination events on participation and affordability Why short-term excitement can overshadow long-term sustainability How gym owners can make better decisions by learning from industry history If you're a cheer gym owner, coach, or industry leader, this episode will challenge you to think critically about the trends shaping all star cheer and ask whether we're solving problems—or simply repeating them.