In this episode of Fireside Chat, Danielle shares the 5 biggest tryout mistakes that can derail your season before it even begins. We’re talking aging athletes up too fast, misaligning your teams with your gym’s goals, and even the danger of letting one voice—or a single tryout—sway your whole plan. If you’re gearing up for team placements, don’t miss this one.

In this episode of Fireside Chat, Danielle shares a behind-the-scenes look at the Allstar World Championship and the critical weeks that follow. From wrapping up one of the busiest times of the season to preparing for tryouts, she breaks down how her gym transitions from high-intensity competition to intentional rebuilding. Learn what happens when the spotlight fades and the work toward next season begins.

More athletes, more teams, more revenue—right? Not always. Danielle & Justin walk you through the critical mistakes gym owners make when they chase growth before fixing what’s broken behind the scenes. If you’ve been focused on sign-ups but still feel stuck, this episode will help you shift your strategy and grow the right way.

This week on Fireside Chat, Danielle interviews Craig Hallmark and Heidi Weber from the Open Championship Series to talk all things scoresheet. They explain the why behind the 2025-2026 OCS scoresheet updates and share what surprising trends their data revealed about upper-level teams. If you’re planning for next season, this is an essential listen.

If you’ve ever thought, “They should have to pay for that,” this episode is a must-listen. Just because something feels justified doesn’t mean it’s legal—Matt breaks it all down in plain English.

The Open’s new age grid has been a hot topic in the all star cheerleading world, but is age separation alone really what keeps kids safe? In this episode, we’re diving into the bigger picture—why coaches, gym owners, and gym culture play a far greater role in athlete safety than just numbers on a roster. From team placements and proper progressions to building the right environment for mentorship and accountability, this conversation is all about what truly matters when it comes to athlete development and retention. Gym owners and coaches have the power to set expectations, structure practices, and create a culture that prioritizes both safety and growth. Tune in as we break it all down and discuss how smart coaching and business strategies can help gyms navigate these changes the right way. Listen now and join the conversation!

As a coach, it’s easy to let cheer consume your every thought—but at what cost? In this episode, we dive into the reality of stepping away mid-season, why it’s not only possible but necessary, and how taking time for yourself can actually make you a better coach. Danielle shares her personal experience of getting away, the steps she took to prepare her teams, and how she returned feeling refreshed, excited, and more in tune with what truly matters. From making memories with family to gaining fresh perspectives from her athletes, this episode is a reminder that cheer is a part of life—not all of it. Tune in as we unpack the mindset shift that every coach needs to hear!