Throwback: The Immense Legal Risk of the Industry Standard and Private Lessons with Matt Becker

Most cheer gyms don’t realize private lessons can create massive legal, insurance, and tax exposure—fast. In this episode, Dan Cotton sits down with Matthew Becker of GymLawyers.com to break down what’s really at stake when coaches take private lesson payments directly (cash, Venmo, check) and run sessions “on the side” inside your facility. They explain why this common industry practice can blur the line between employee and independent contractor, potentially leaving both the coach and the gym owner exposed if an athlete gets injured, a parent disputes services, or an audit happens. You’ll learn the real difference between employees vs. independent contractors, why gym waivers may not protect a coach who is paid directly, how insurance carriers can deny claims, and why “small fees per lesson” can actually increase risk instead of reducing it. They also cover contract clarity (making payment terms clear and conspicuous), why hidden fees can cause major legal problems, and what a safer private lesson system can look like when everything runs through the gym. If your gym offers private lessons—or you’re considering it—this episode will help you protect your business, your staff, and your future.