The PROformance Review podcast (formerly The ImPerfect Cheerleader)
by Jasmine Neely
The PROformance Review (formerly The ImPerfect Cheerleader) is a performance-driven podcast that explores what it really takes to succeed at a high level in entertainment, sports, and beyond. We keep the professional dance foundation while exploring professional entertainers broadly. You can expect deep dive interviews with all kinds of performers, cultural commentary, and insights on discipline, execution, mindset, and useful tips and tricks that every performer needs to succeed at their highest level.
Episodes
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#195: Fueling athlete success: Mike Hummel’s approach
In this episode of the PROformance Review Podcast, Jasmine interviews Mike Hummel, a former tech startup professional turned elite athlete coach. They discuss Mike's journey from coaching track at SMU to developing a unique approach to fueling athletes, particularly focusing on the importance of...
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#194: Former Honey Bee, Britt Caldwell on faith, dance and business
OPPORTUNITY! If you are a dancer, Britt wants to work with you! Reach out via email at [email protected]. Make sure you mention The PROformance Review Podcast. In this episode of the Performance Review Podcast, host Jasmine Neely welcomes Brittany Caldwell, who shares her journey from a childhood...
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#193: Dancers, don't neglect the upper body
In this episode of the PROformance Review Podcast, host Jasmine Neely discusses the critical importance of upper body strength for dancers, emphasizing how it contributes to powerful movements in performances. She shares insights on effective exercises, the need for weight training in dance...
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#192: FBF: How to improve your choreo retention
In this episode of the PROformance Review Podcast, host Jasmine Neely shares valuable tips on how to improve memory when learning dance choreography. She discusses the importance of sleep, the benefits of repeating music, and effective practice techniques. Additionally, she emphasizes the role of...
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#191: Dancer's spatial awareness, Zara Larsson Lollapalooza performance
In this episode, Jasmine Neely breaks down what spatial awareness really means in dance and why it matters both on and off the dance floor. She also shares her thoughts on Zara Larsson’s Lollapalooza performance, the singer’s artistry, and what makes her such a compelling pop star right now. In...
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#190: Amber Desiree (AD) on Love Is Blind, NBA and NFL dance life
Amber Desiree, also known as AD, joins The PROformance Review for a wide-ranging conversation about her life before reality TV, her years as a New England Patriots cheerleader and Charlotte Hornets Honey Bee, and what it took to thrive in pro dance. She also opens up about Love Is Blind, the...
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#189: What are you in class for?
In this solo episode, Jasmine discusses the various reasons why people attend dance classes, emphasizing the importance of understanding your 'why' and how it influences your growth and motivation. She also shares insights on performance, mindset, and personal development within the context of...
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#188: It's time for a new era...Goodbye ICP...Hello...
For five years, The I(m)Perfect Cheerleader has served as a resource for aspiring professional dancers and cheerleaders, offering audition strategies, mindset coaching, and behind-the-scenes insight into the pro dance world. When I started the podcast in 2021, it was meant for aspiring pro…
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#187: Beyond the Field, TopCats alumni event
In this special live taping of The (Im)Perfect Cheerleader I am sitting down with TopCats alum at the Beyond the Field alumni event focused on three pillars: Rise, Rally, and Restore. We did a somatic yoga session, line danced, and connected with each other for recharging and resetting. As you…
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#186: An NCAA cheerleader's period recovery with Allison Yamamoto
The Role of Hormonal Health and Training Balance in Female Athletes with Allison Yamamoto Discover how hormonal health impacts athletic performance, recovery, and longevity. Join Jasmine Neely as she interviews sports nutritionist and founder of Koa Athletic Health, Allison Yamamoto, about…
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#185: Let's catch up! What I've been up to
It's been a while since we caught up, so I am updating you on my life and what I've been up to! I include my return to the Honey Bees, reflect on auditions, discuss new projects, podcasts, and thoughts on social media's impact on athletes and dancers. Main topics include: Jasmine’s return to the...
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#184: TopCats Eras Series FINAL EPISODE: Trica Johnson & Brandi Hopson
We close out the TopCats Eras Series with the most recently retired TopCats, Trica Johnson and Brandi Hopson (I'm so sad it's over). These ladies share their inspiring journeys, challenges faced, and the lessons learned along the way. This episode offers both motivational stories and practical...
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#183: The Ultimate Performer, Michael Jackson
Ever wondered why we obsess over the lives of iconic stars like Michael Jackson? Let’s dive deep into the mystery. 🤔 After watching the new Michael Jackson biopic, I found myself lost in thoughts about his life. He was such a massive star, but what about his personal struggles? The film…
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#182: TopCats Eras Series: Annalise Coleman & Kamilah McCray
Join us as we celebrate three decades of TopCats cheerleading with legendary members Kamilah McCray and Annalise Coleman who both cheered during the mid 2010s and early 2020s eras. This episode highlights their journeys, memorable moments, and the impact of being part of the TopCats organization....
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#181: TopCats Eras Series: Tiffany Pittman & Macey Butler
Summary Join Jasmine Neely as she interviews Tiffany Pittman and Macey Butler, two former TopCats, as they share their experiences, memorable moments like Super Bowl 50, and life after pro cheerleading. Discover insights into dedication, community, and embracing imperfection in this inspiring...
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#180: TopCats Eras Series: Nicole Smith & Denise Porter
Celebrating 30 Years of the TopCats with stories and memories from Nicole and Denise! Summary Former TopCats Nicole Smith (my former coach!) and Denise Porter share their 30-year journey with the team, the evolution of pro cheerleading from the 90s to now, and behind-the-scenes stories from game...
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#179: TopCats Eras Series, Celebrating 30 Years of TopCats: Kelli Triplett and Tara (Mull) Ryan
Summary This episode features Tara Ryan and Kelli Triplett, two former TopCats cheerleaders, sharing their inspiring journeys, audition stories, team dynamics, and lessons learned from the 30-year cheerleading legacy. Discover how perseverance, support, and passion can lead to extraordinary...
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#178: How I am adjusting to NBA dance life
In this episode I am sharing my journey of being an NBA dancer, embracing age, overcoming mental blocks, and balancing faith with my passion for dance in the high-pressure world of NBA dancing. I share insights into resilience, self-confidence, and finding purpose at every stage of life....
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#177: TopCats Eras Series, Celebrating 30 Years of TopCats: DaWanda Bittle and Felicia Dawson
Summary In 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,...
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#176: TopCats Eras Series, Celebrating 30 Years of TopCats: Shannon McClattie and Tammy Tucci
In this special episode of the Imperfect Cheerleader podcast, we celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Top Cats, the cheerleading squad for the Carolina Panthers. Host Jasmine Neely is joined by two distinguished members of the team, Shannon McClattie and Tammy Tucci, who share their inspiring...
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#175: TopCats Eras Series: Celebrating 30 Years of TopCats: Leslie Matz and Kimberly Pixton Millar
Summary This episode explores the rich history and behind-the-scenes stories of the TopCats cheerleading squad, featuring pioneers Leslie Matz and Kimberly Millar. Discover how the iconic uniforms, recruitment strategies, and team dynamics were crafted to build a legacy of excellence and…
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#174: From NFL Cheerleaders to besties in business and life - Whitney Dillon and Mariel Swan
In this engaging conversation, Mariel Swan and Whitney Dillon share their journey of friendship and entrepreneurship. They discuss the importance of authentic relationships, the challenges of transitioning from cheerleading to business, and how their artistic backgrounds shaped their identities....
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#173: Gary Chupik on mental performance, regaining confidence and more
In this episode of the Imperfect Cheerleader Podcast, host Jasmine Neely welcomes mental performance coach Gary Chupik, who specializes in helping athletes unlock their potential. Gary discusses the key traits that make someone a great candidate for coaching, emphasizing the importance of a…
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#172: Miss South Carolina's Jada Samuel on confidence, vulnerability, and staying true to yourself
Jada Samuel is an author, marketing-communications professional and the founder of a girl’s nonprofit mentoring organization called iShapeMe. In 2023, she became the oldest and only the 4th Black woman to win the title of Miss South Carolina. Now, she’s a pageant coach and professional speaker...
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#171: Look Love Babes Sabrina and Charisse
I caught up with Look Love Beauty Babes Sabrina and Charisse! We talk all things pro cheer/pro dance. My past experience as an NFL Cheerleader with the Panthers' Topcats and my current role as an NBA dancer with the Honeybees. We also get into Taylor Swift and my personal research project on why...
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#170: Catch me on Ayo Adewuya's sports podcast talking NFL cheer, NBA dance and more!
I sat down with sports podcaster Ayokunle Adewuya to talk all things pro cheer, pro dance, advice, NIL deals and more! Go follow him on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rayodfilms/videos Follow me on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVUfNIPC6PxR4_Xxwd2Imdg Follow me on Instagram:...
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#169: America's Sweethearts DCC Season 2 Episode 7 Recap
In this final episode recap of the DCC series, host Jasmine Neely reflects on the journey of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, discussing key moments such as Victoria's move to New York, Chandi's controversial decisions, and the emotional weight of the last game. The episode highlights personal...
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#168: America's Sweethearts: DCC, season 2 Episode 6 recap
Summary In this episode of the Imperfect Cheerleader podcast, host Jasmine Neely delves into the complexities of professional dance, particularly within the context of cheerleading. She discusses the mental health challenges faced by dancers, the importance of communication within teams, and the...
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#167: America's Sweethearts: DCC, season 2 episode 5 recap
Summary In this episode of the Imperfect Cheerleader podcast, host Jasmine Neely recaps Season 2 Episode 5 of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. She engages with listeners, answering questions about dance training and age limits for auditions. The episode delves into the emotional journey of team...
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#166: America's Sweethearts: DCC, season 2 episode 4 recap
Summary In this episode of the Imperfect Cheerleader podcast, host Jasmine Neely discusses the emotional journey of cheerleaders on the DCC, focusing on Dayton's experience and the dynamics of training camp. She emphasizes the importance of personal growth, leadership, and representation within...
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#165: America's Sweethearts: DCC, season 2 episode 3 recap
Summary In this episode of the Imperfect Cheerleader Podcast, host Jasmine Neely explores the journey of becoming a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader, focusing on themes of hair and identity through the lens of the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders show, the importance of flexibility and kicks, mental...
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#164: America's Sweethearts: DCC, season 2 episode 2 recap
Summary In this episode of the Imperfect Cheerleader podcast, host Jasmine Neely recaps season 2 episode 2 of of the Netflix show DCC Making the team. She discusses various aspects of NFL cheerleading, including the fun parts and challenges of being a pro dancer, the dynamics of leadership within...
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#163: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Season 2 recap - Episode 1
Summary In this episode of the Imperfect Cheerleader podcast, host Jasmine Neely discusses the first episode of Season 2 of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders show. She reflects on the emotional opening scene, the importance of diversity, the dynamics of team relationships, and the challenges faced…
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#162: Getting real about a dancer's worth and value with Kevin Hyrams
Summary In this episode of the Imperfect Cheerleader podcast, host Jasmine Neely engages in a deep conversation with mentor Kevin Hyrams about the multifaceted nature of failure, the importance of resetting and persistence, and the transition from corporate life to entrepreneurship. Hyrams shares...
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#161: The business behind pro cheerleading
In this episode, Jasmine discusses the business aspects of cheerleading and dance teams, emphasizing the importance of profitability and audience engagement. She explores the dynamics between coaches and team members, highlighting the need for emotional resilience during auditions and the often...
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#160: Coach Lain Lee on unlocking performance psychology
In this episode, Coach Lain Lee discusses his journey into performance psychology, emphasizing the importance of understanding fear, mental blocks, and the role of discomfort in performance. He shares insights on the impact of pressure on athletes, using Simone Biles' experience as a case study....
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#159: Former NBA dancer Ana Ogbueze shares lessons learned and how to be a strategic dancer
Ana Ogbueze will be at the Pro dance intensive on June 7! Sign up now: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1357969396019?aff=oddtdtcreator Summary In this episode of the Imperfect Cheerleader podcast, Ana Ogbueze shares her journey from being an NBA dancer to becoming a successful dance entrepreneur.…
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#158: Three every day things you can do NOW to build confidence
Summary In this episode of the Imperfect Cheerleader podcast, host Jasmine Neely shares practical strategies for building confidence in preparation for dance auditions. She emphasizes the importance of mindset and self-empowerment through creating an uplifting playlist, performing for supportive...
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#157: How to adjust to new coaching styles
Summary In this episode of the Imperfect Cheerleader podcast I am reflecting on my journey and the importance of adapting to different coaching styles in the cheerleading and dance industry. I emphasize the need for flexibility and openness to change, discussing how these qualities are essential...
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#156: Live session! Makeup by Caitlyn Michelle, beauty tips, makeup trends and more!
Find all the products Caitlyn used on me here! In this engaging conversation, makeup artist Caitlyn Dominic shares her insights on various aspects of makeup application, from the challenges of posing clients to the intricacies of performance makeup. The discussion covers personal preferences in...
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#155: Flash back Friday! Change your mindset about rejection by doing this
Rejection is a part of every dancer's journey, but it doesn’t have to define your story. In this episode, we dive deep into the challenges of facing rejection in the dance world and how to transform setbacks into stepping stones. Whether it’s not landing that coveted audition or struggling with...
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#154: It's what happens after the but...
The power of the tongue is real! We talk about body image, overcoming roadblocks in your dancing and noticing how you speak to yourself. Enjoy this episode!
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#153: What's on that judge's sheet?
We are talking about what you can expect a judge's sheet to look like and thus what you should prepare for. Subscribe to the ImPerfect Cheerleader podcast! Subscribe to the YouTube channel! https://www.youtube.com/@theprofessionalcheerleader3985
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#152: Marissa West talks time as a TopCat, West Kept Secret, fitness, nutrition, judges tips for hopefuls and more!
ATTENTION: If you listened to this episode, there's a gift for you toward the end...but you have to listen to the end to find out what it is! And it's goooood. You're welcome, babe. ___________________________________________________________ Marissa is the founder / creator of WKS! She grew up…
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#151: Ohavia Phillips discusses confidence, the art of emceeing, dance background and being your authentic self
A Brooklyn native thriving in Charlotte, Ohavia Phillips is a dynamic force in sports, media, and entertainment. As an electrifying emcee, in-arena host for The Charlotte Hornets, and award-winning entrepreneur, Ohavia lights up stages, arenas, and events with unmatched energy and impact. From...
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#150: Haley Marie McClain Hill talks military, pro cheer and Shark Tank TV experience
Our guest today, Haley Marie McClain Hill has done it all. She's been an NFL cheerleader for two teams while serving in the military and now runs her clothing line, Torch Warrior Wear. Not to mention she's a 2x author and has also been on the hit TV show, Shark Tank! We dive into all of this and...
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#149: 2025 NFL pro dance team prep classes and audition dates
All NFL pro dance teams and links to their websites: Arizona Cardinals Cheerleaders Atlanta Falcons Cheerleaders Baltimore Ravens Cheerleaders Carolina Panthers TopCats Cincinnati Bengals Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Denver Broncos Cheerleaders Detroit Lions Cheerleaders Houston Texans…
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#148: Here are 4 ways you can enjoy the pro cheer audition process
The audition process can be so much easier when you can do at least 1 of these 4 things. Let's enjoy the journey and the process! Look out for in-person classes coming your way this audition season! Bring a friend with you to make the most out of it!
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#147: How to know when you're doing the most during auditions
Think you might be overly eager or annoying. Let's get into how to know if you are during auditions and what to do instead.
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#146: How to have the audacity mindset during audition season
Girl, just do it. In 2025, I want you to practice having the audacity to do anything that's put on your heart and stop overthinking it. Want to try out for a team, have the audacity to do it, want to ask for more chicken in the Chipotle line, have the audacity to ask for it, and want to say "No"...
About this show
The PROformance Review (formerly The ImPerfect Cheerleader) is a performance-driven podcast that explores what it really takes to succeed at a high level in entertainment, sports, and beyond. We keep the professional dance foundation while exploring professional entertainers broadly. You can expect deep dive interviews with all kinds of performers, cultural commentary, and insights on discipline, execution, mindset, and useful tips and tricks that every performer needs to succeed at their highest level.
Hosted by
Jasmine Neely
Categories