Megan Gomarlo - Podcast Details

Shows

Here 4 Cheer From Overwhelmed to Organized | Matthew GotoWhat if being busy didn’t have to mean being overwhelmed? In this episode of Here For Cheer, host Megan Gomarlo sits down with cheer and dance industry leader Matthew Goto—athlete, coach, mentor, and creator of the platform Busy, But Organized—to talk productivity, leadership, and building a life that actually works. With over 22 years in the cheer and dance world, Matthew shares the real systems, mindset shifts, and habits that help coaches, gym owners, and athletes stay motivated, focused, and mentally strong—without burning out. This conversation is packed with tangible takeaway...

2026-02-1748 min

Here 4 Cheer Inside the Rise of UMass Cheer: Colby HallWhat does it really take to rebuild a college cheer program from nothing? In this episode of Here For Cheer with Megan Gomarlo, UMass Head Coach Colby Hall opens up about taking over a struggling program with just 22 athletes, rebuilding team culture, raising expectations, and ultimately leading her team to a College Nationals championship. From holding on “for dear life” in year one to creating a powerhouse program in New England, Colby shares the real behind-the-scenes work of leadership, accountability, athlete development, and resilience—on and off the mat. Whether you’re a cheerlead...

2026-02-1051 min

Here 4 Cheer From TGLC to UCF: Izzy Russo’s Cheer JourneyIn this episode, host Megan Gomarlo sits down with Izzy Russo, a five-time World Champion and former flyer for the legendary Top Gun All Stars (TGLC) —one of the most iconic teams in all of cheerleading. Izzy opens up about what it really takes to compete at the highest level of the sport, from moving across the country at 12 years old to chase her dreams, to handling pressure, fan attention, and the expectations that come with wearing a Top Gun uniform. She shares behind-the-scenes insight into TLC’s culture, innovation, and championship mindset, plus what it was like...

2026-02-0344 min

Here 4 Cheer From Passion to Profit: Running a Cheer Gym for GrowthWhat separates a thriving cheer gym from one that’s constantly overwhelmed? In this episode of Here For Cheer, host Megan Gomarlo sits down with Danielle Johnston—co-owner of Twister Sports, founder of Next Gen Gym Owners, and author of The Cheer Gym Owner’s Handbook—to talk honestly about what it takes to build and sustain a successful cheer gym. From growing a gym in a small town to creating systems that keep gyms running smoothly, Danielle shares practical insights on leadership, staffing, retention, marketing, and mindset. This conversation is packed with real-world strategies gym owners...

2026-01-271h 15

Here 4 Cheer The Cheer Gym Blueprint: Retention, Leadership & Real Growth with Rachel Lynch, MBEHow do you grow a cheer gym without losing your culture, your staff, or yourself? In this powerful episode of Here For Cheer, host Megan Gomarlo sits down with Rachel Lynch, MBE, owner of North East Cheer (UK) and founder of The Cheerleading CEO, to break down exactly how she scaled her program from 80 athletes to over 900 members—while maintaining retention, confidence, and community. Rachel shares real, practical strategies for: Building retention before recruitment Creating systems that support growth before you need them Developing young leaders and future coaches fro...

2026-01-2054 min

Here 4 Cheer 10 Essential Skills Every Cheer Coach Must Master | Leadership, Motivation & Winning Team CultureIn this solo episode of Here for Cheer, host Megan Gomarlo shares the 10 essential skills every cheer coach must master to build strong athletes, healthy team culture, and long-term success—on and off the mat. From connection and communication to leadership, motivation, adaptability, and problem-solving, Megan breaks down the real-life coaching skills that matter most during a long and demanding cheer season. This episode is a must-watch for all-star cheer coaches, gym owners, school cheer coaches, team leaders, and cheer parents who want to better support athletes and create winning, resilient programs. In th...

2026-01-1344 min

Here 4 Cheer All Star Cheer Goes Global: The AIA, Olympic Pathways & Industry Leadership with Jibreel Rayam Welcome back to the Here 4 Cheer Podcast! In our first episode of 2026, host Megan Gomarlo sits down with global cheer ambassador Jibreel Rayam, President of the AIA — Association for International All Star, and 20+ year gym owner. In this episode, Jibreel gives an inside look at how the AIA is reshaping the future of All Star cheer on a global scale. From international pathways to athlete experience, he breaks down what’s next for the sport — and why worldwide collaboration matters more than ever. What you’ll hear in this episode: What the AIA is a...

2026-01-0654 min

Here 4 Cheer 70+ Years of Cheer Wisdom: Hank Light & Kim Gaskin on Longevity, Leadership, and the Evolution of NHSCCIn this episode of Here for a Cheer, host Megan Gomarlo sits down with two absolute legends of the industry: Hank Light, the V!Roc Choreographer Director with over 100 UCA National titles, and Kim Gaskin, a 36-year veteran coach of Burlington Township with five NHSCC titles. Together, they take a trip down memory lane, discussing how a chance meeting at a pool bar before Nationals turned into a decades-long mentorship and friendship. Hank and Kim share invaluable advice on how to build a program that lasts, the importance of adapting coaching styles for today’s athletes, and wh...

2025-12-301h 04

Here 4 Cheer Everything Led to This: Macie Dickey's Journey to Pro CheerCheerleading has been her whole life—and now, she’s reflecting on what it means to go pro... and let go. In this episode of Here For Cheer, we sit down with Macie Dickey, Texas Tech cheerleader and Pro Cheer League athlete, to talk about growing up in the gym, navigating injuries, transferring colleges, winning a national championship, and facing the emotional reality of the end of a cheer career. Macie opens up about sacrifice, resilience, family, and why cheerleading will always be a part of who she is. This is an honest, heartfelt conversation for...

2025-12-2344 min

Here 4 Cheer The Power of Perseverance with 5-Time World Champion Michael HeadIn this inspiring episode, host Megan Camarillo sits down with the legendary Michael Head, a two-time UCF Collegiate Champion and five-time World Champion with USA Cheer! Michael opens up about his incredible journey in the cheer world, discussing the difficult moments when he faced doubt from people who didn't understand his passion. He shares what it feels like to finally see those doubters come around and why the support of his friends and family is everything. This is a must-listen for anyone needing a boost of confidence or a reminder to stay true to the things they...

2025-12-1645 min

Here 4 Cheer How to Support Your Athlete This Cheer SeasonCompetition season is here — and we’re breaking down exactly how parents and athletes can make the most of it! In this episode, Megan Gomarlo shares her best tips for having a successful, fun, and drama-free comp season. From showing spirit and staying on time to giving your athlete healthy feedback, this episode helps set the tone for a positive year. You’ll learn: • What parents can do to support the team culture • Why cheering loudly matters more than you think • How to help kids handle nerves, mistakes, and placements • The power of positive feedb...

2025-12-0919 min

Here 4 Cheer The Cheer Doctor: Injury Prevention, Strength Training, and How to Elevate Your Cheer Skills with Dr. Maria WismanWelcome to Episode 19 of Here 4 Cheer! Host Megan Gomarlo is joined by a super special guest: Dr. Maria Wisman, PT, DPT, CSCS, also known as The Cheer Doctor. Dr. Wisman is a Physical Therapist and Strength Coach whose entire mission is to help cheer athletes go from good to great using specialized physical therapy and strength training programs. In this must-listen episode, Dr. Wisman dives deep into topics including: The critical importance of strength training and why it's a foundational piece of injury prevention that many cheerleaders overlook. Her own background...

2025-12-0245 min

Here 4 Cheer 10 Ways to Be a More Coachable Athlete (The Secret to Standing Out in Cheer)In this short but powerful episode, Megan Gomarlo reveals the 10 essential habits that make an athlete truly coachable — the kind of athlete every coach wants on their roster. Learn why corrections are a gift, how the best athletes process feedback, and the mindset shifts that will elevate your performance, your confidence, and your role on the team. Perfect for athletes, parents, and coaches who want to build stronger, more positive, and more competitive teams.

2025-11-2514 min

Here 4 Cheer Inside Greatness: Jomo Thompson on Culture, Accountability, & Building ChampionsIn this powerful episode of Here 4 Cheer, Megan sits down with Jomo K. Thompson, the legendary 18-time national champion coach behind the University of Kentucky’s cheer dynasty. Jomo shares: • The philosophy that built Kentucky’s winning culture • Why “absolute responsibility” changes athletes’ lives • How to stay hungry after winning • The mindset behind elite stunting and routine creation • How to prepare athletes for pressure • What great leadership looks like in cheer • Life lessons he teaches his athletes — on and off the mat Now coaching at Lexington Catholic, Jomo continues to shape the fut...

2025-11-1850 min

Here 4 Cheer More Than Skill: Building Mental Strength in Cheer with Kara FrairIn this episode of Here 4 Cheer, host Megan Gomarlo welcomes Kara Frair, founder of More Than Skill, for a deep dive into the mental side of cheerleading. Kara shares powerful strategies for building confidence, resilience, and emotional awareness in youth athletes — from breathwork and visualization to journaling and gamified mindset training. Whether you're a coach, parent, or athlete, this conversation is packed with actionable tools to help navigate nerve pauses (formerly known as mental blocks), high-pressure moments, and the emotional rollercoaster of competitive cheer. 💬 Topics include: How to integrate mental training into practice Supporting athle...

2025-11-111h 06

Here 4 Cheer Jack Kidney: Positive Self-Talk, Injury Recovery & Cheerleading ComebackIn this episode of Here 4 Cheer, host Megan Gomarlo welcomes Jack Kidney, a six-time world champion and international cheer consultant, to share his incredible journey back to the mat after a devastating Achilles injury. Jack opens up about the role of positive self-talk, mental toughness, and team culture in his 2025 comeback season with Top Gun. From his first handstand post-surgery to winning Worlds again, Jack’s story is a testament to the power of mindset and passion. He also dives into his global cheer experiences, coaching philosophy, and advice for athletes, coaches, and parents navigating the highs an...

2025-11-0448 min

Here 4 Cheer 10 Ways to Be a Coach Who Makes an ImpactIn this heartfelt solo episode, Megan Gomarlo shares her top ten lessons for coaches who want to do more than just win—they want to make a difference. Drawing on 20 years of experience, Megan talks about effort over outcome, building real relationships, leading with empathy, and creating a culture that lasts long after the season ends. Perfect for coaches, gym owners, and parents who believe that cheer is about more than trophies—it’s about shaping confident, resilient, and grateful athletes. Tune in, reflect, and remember: your legacy as a coach is in the lives you to...

2025-10-2845 min

Here 4 Cheer Tucker Hunter: From World Champion to Pro Cheer CoachNine-time world champion and USA Cheer National Team Director Tucker Hunter joins Megan Gomarlo to talk about the future of cheer — from coaching the Dallas Drive in the new Pro Cheer League to mentoring athletes through Cheer Athletics and Team USA. Tucker opens up about his journey, coaching philosophy, and the lessons learned from balancing elite competition, leadership, and life. Whether you’re an athlete, parent, or coach, this episode is packed with insight and inspiration. #Here4Cheer #Cheerleading #ProCheerLeague #CheerAthletics #USAcheer #TuckerHunter #CheerCoach #CheerPodcast #NCA #CheerMotivation #CheerParents #CheerAthlete

2025-10-2149 min

Here 4 Cheer NextUpCheer’s Les Malanowski: How to Get Recruited for College CheerIn this episode of Here for Cheer, host Megan Gomarlo talks with Les Malanowski, founder of NextUpCheer and former University of Iowa cheerleader, about how to navigate the college cheer recruiting process. Les shares valuable advice for athletes and parents — when to start preparing, how to reach out to coaches, what to post on social media, and what college programs are really looking for. They also discuss the importance of mindset, mental health, and finding the right fit for every athlete. Perfect for athletes, parents, and coaches who want to help their cheerleaders take the ne...

2025-10-141h 03

Here 4 Cheer 10 Ways to Be a Great Cheer ParentIn this heartfelt solo episode, host Megan Gomarlo shares her 20+ years of experience as a gym owner, coach, and cheer mom to break down 10 ways to be a great cheer parent. From learning to say “I love watching you cheer” to trusting the process, avoiding comparisons, and embracing the highs and lows of the season — this episode is packed with honest advice and personal stories every cheer parent can relate to. Whether you’re new to the sport or a seasoned parent on the sidelines, you’ll come away with practical ways to support your athlete, your coaches, a...

2025-10-0735 min

Here 4 Cheer Cheer Judging Secrets Revealed! | Gabby Mauro on Scoresheets, Execution & CreativityIn this episode of Here 4 Cheer, we welcome certified cheer judge and scoresheet expert Gabby Mauro to share her journey from athlete to judge and break down the cheer scoring system like never before. Gabby offers real-world advice for: Coaches trying to understand the rubric Gym owners building competitive teams Athletes wanting to improve execution Parents curious about how judging works Whether you're chasing a Summit bid or just want to better understand the rubric, this episode is packed with tips, tricks, and transparency from one of the industry's most respected voices. 🔗 Follow Gab...

2025-09-301h 08

Here 4 Cheer Matt Kelley: Tumbling, Coaching & Building Confidence in CheerIn this episode of the Here 4 Cheer Podcast, host Megan Gomarlo sits down with legendary tumbling coach Matt Kelley of Woodlands Elite. With 24+ years in the industry, Matt has earned 6 World Championships, 11 NCAA titles, and a reputation as one of the most respected voices in All-Star cheer. Matt opens up about: Why spotting can create a crutch in tumbling Smarter progressions for long-term athlete success Injury prevention and conditioning that actually works Preparing athletes for full outs and college cheer How coaches can keep learning and growing ...

2025-09-2350 min

Here 4 Cheer The Keys to Cheer Success | Lee GrobsteinIn this episode of the Here for Cheer Podcast, host Megan Gomarlo sits down with Lee Grobstein, owner of Star Athletics Cheer (NJ & ATL) and one of the most respected leaders in the cheer industry. With over 500 athletes, two thriving locations, and multiple Summit and D1 titles, Lee has built a true cheer dynasty. We dive into: The culture and brand behind Star Athletics Score sheet strategy and coaching tips for success Why building athletic foundations matters more than just practice Advice for gym owners, coaches, and cheer parents Lee shares powerful insights on leadership...

2025-09-1647 min

Here 4 Cheer Patrick Smith: Maxing Out Stunts and Creating Positive CultureJoin host Megan Gomarlo on Here for Cheer as she sits down with Patrick Smith, owner of Max Out Cheer Consultations and one of the most sought-after minds in All-Star cheer. With over 20 years of experience as an athlete, coach, and consultant, Patrick has helped hundreds of teams elevate their stunts, pyramids, and overall creativity to championship levels. In this episode, Patrick shares: ✨ How he helps teams unlock higher scores through difficulty & innovation ✨ Why risk-taking and creativity separate good routines from great ones ✨ His approach to coaching with kindness, education, and consistency ✨ Insider drills a...

2025-09-0939 min

Here 4 Cheer Football - Cheer - Team USA - Kyle Williams' Inspiring StoryFrom the football field to the cheer mat — Kyle Williams shares how he went against the odds to follow his passion for cheerleading. Starting at 13, Kyle broke stereotypes, pushed through obstacles, and rose to become an All-Star cheer coach and choreographer, leading teams at NCA, The Summit, and ICU Worlds. In this episode of Here 4 Cheer, Kyle talks about: 👉 Choosing cheer over football despite family pressure 👉 Building a career in All-Star cheer as a coach and choreographer 👉 The grind of choreography life — travel, no sleep, repeat 👉 His most emotional coaching moments at Summit and Worlds ...

2025-09-0244 min

Here 4 Cheer The Masters of TumblingLearn the secrets to mastering cheer tumbling from two of the best in the industry! In this episode of the Here 4 Cheer Podcast, host Megan Gomarlo sits down with tumble masters Jonathan Gort and Lance Sawyer (G&S All Access) to talk about: 💥 Their favorite tumbling drills & equipment 💥 How to structure the perfect tumbling class 💥 Building confidence after falls & mistakes 💥 The #1 shape every tumbler must master 💥 Why patience, consistency & progressions matter Whether you’re a cheerleader, coach, or parent, this episode is packed with pro tips to help you tumble s...

2025-08-2644 min

Here 4 Cheer How to Get Recruited for College Cheer | Dan Weaver (Minnesota Cheer Coach)Episode 4 – Dan Weaver | Building a National Championship Culture In this episode of the Here 4 Cheer Podcast, host [Your Name] welcomes Dan Weaver, Head Coach of the University of Minnesota Cheer Team and 5x National Champion. From starting as a walk-on athlete at the University of Delaware to leading one of the top Division 1A programs in the nation, Dan’s journey is full of lessons for athletes, parents, and coaches. We talk about: What it really takes to get recruited for college cheer How being an alternate can shape your leadership and...

2025-08-1946 min

Here 4 Cheer Overcoming Mental Blocks and Developing a Growth MindsetMental blocks can stop an athlete in their tracks — but they don’t have to be permanent. In this Here 4 Cheer episode, we talk with Jeff Benson from Mind Body Cheer about why mental blocks happen, how cheerleading’s perfection-focused culture can make them worse, and what athletes, coaches, and parents can do to move past them. Jeff explains the difference between a fixed and growth mindset, shares practical strategies for breaking through performance fears, and offers tools to help athletes rebuild confidence and resilience. Whether you’re stuck on a tumbling skill, coaching athletes through...

2025-08-1252 min

Here 4 Cheer Improving Cheer Flexibility with Cat HaleyWelcome to Episode 2 of Here 4 Cheer! This week we’re joined by flexibility guru Cat Haley, who dives into the critical role flexibility plays in competitive cheerleading. From her unique training program and how she helps athletes level up, to her journey in the cheer world and what it really takes to thrive in the sport—this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and behind-the-scenes cheer life. Whether you're a flyer, coach, or parent, you’ll gain valuable tips and perspective on building strength, improving flexibility safely, and sustaining success in All-Star cheer. Topics Covered: - How...

2025-08-0547 min

Here 4 Cheer All Star Cheer: How to Lead, Grow, and Inspire with Brent SteeleWhat does it take to lead with purpose in the world of All-Star cheer? In this episode of Here 4 Cheer, host Megan Gomarlo sits down with Brent Steele, founder of Steele Athletics, to talk about his journey from passionate athlete to visionary gym owner. Brent shares how he built a positive and driven gym culture, the importance of inspiring both athletes and staff, and why strong leadership is key to moving the sport forward. In this episode, you’ll hear about: Brent’s personal path into cheerleading and gym ownership How leadership and ment...

2025-07-2941 min