The cheer world just got two huge plot twists: a long-running trademark fight over the word “worlds” has been settled, and the Pro Cheer League is expanding with new teams, new matchups, and a bigger vision for the sport. If you care about all-star cheer, the business behind it, or where the industry is headed next, this episode is packed with updates.

Kristen returns with a candid, behind-the-scenes catch-up on the summer break, the reality of keeping a podcast alive, and why memberships are now becoming a bigger part of what keeps the show going. From there, she gets into the stories shaping cheerleading right now — including the legal battle between USASF, the Open Championship Series, and Deep South Spirit, and what the settlement means for who gets to use the term “worlds” going forward.You’ll also hear about Kendall Hanbury’s upcoming appearance on Damon John’s entrepreneur reality show, plus why that kind of mainstream visibility could matter for cheer as a sport and a business. Then Kristen breaks down the latest Pro Cheer League expansion, including the addition of Houston Hustle and Kentucky Crush, the logic behind where new teams are located, and the full slate of themed matchups rolling out through the season.She shares:

• What changed in the trademark dispute over “worlds” and why the settlement matters
• Why the terms “Cheerleading Worlds” and “All-Star World Championship” still create confusion
• How the Pro Cheer League is building a new kind of season with themed events and head-to-head matchups
• Why expansion is happening where the athlete and coaching pipelines already exist
• What stronger industry visibility could mean for registration fees, investment, and long-term growth

Become a member of The Cheer Mom Podcast!

Apolla Socks are changing the cheer game, two feet at a time! Visit apollaperformance.com and use CHEERMOM2024 for 10% off!

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1319977610250566&set=a.404735438441459&type=3

https://cheerdaily.com/cheer/news/u-s-all-star-federation-and-open-cheer-dance-championship-series-reach-settlement-in-federal-antitrust-case

https://procheerleague.com/pages/teams

https://procheerleague.com/pages/schedule

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In this episode, we take a thoughtful look at what truly makes a great cheer coach—and it goes far beyond winning. Inspired by the question “What would I do if I were a cheer coach?”, this conversation explores the five values that shape a healthy, high-performing team culture: leadership, trust, boundaries, presence, and intentional feedback.You’ll hear why culture at the top matters so much, how gossip and favoritism can quietly undermine a program, and why athletes thrive when coaches meet them where they are. We also dive into the importance of showing up for your team, creating meaningful bonding opportunities, and building trust without using the “we are family” narrative in unhealthy ways.Kristen also shares a strong stance on protecting minor athletes through clear boundaries and transparency, including avoiding one-on-one private contact, and explains why competition day should be a launch—not a teardown. The goal isn’t just to build better routines, but better humans.Whether you’re a cheer coach, parent, or leader in any youth sport, this episode offers a practical and heart-centered blueprint for creating a culture where athletes feel respected, supported, and empowered to grow.

Become a member of The Cheer Mom Podcast!

Enter code: CHEERMOMPOD at TCCJewelry.com for a discount!

Apolla Socks are changing the cheer game, two feet at a time! Visit apollaperformance.com and use CHEERMOM2024 for 10% off!

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Varsity Brands settled a class action lawsuit for over $82 million dollars and cheer moms across the country are getting checks in the mail; some to the tune of THOUSANDS of dollars.

But what does this mean for you? Are you suddenly entitled to a check? And why did Varsity settle at all? This episode breaks down some of the facts surrounding the lawsuit, the settlement, and who’s cashing in on it.

Mentioned in this Episode:

Apolla Socks are changing the cheer game, two feet at a time! Visit apollaperformance.com and use CHEERMOM2024 for 10% off!

Enter Code: CHEERMOMPOD for a discount at tccjewelry.com

The Cheer Mom Podcast Episode 97: A Look at Varsity Brands from its Humble Beginnings to a Multi-Billion Dollar Enterprise

https://www.cheerantitrustsettlement.com/important-documents

Official settlement press release

Original Lawsuit

Settlement Filing

Sportico Article About Settlement

https://www.cheerantitrustsettlement.com/faqs

Settlement Agreement

Announcement of Sale to KKR

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