From Athletes to Family: Team Bonding That Builds Trust, Fun, and Fierce Connection

You coach athletes every day — pushing them, guiding them, helping them grow. But here’s the truth most gym owners never hear: you need a coach too. Running a cheer gym isn’t just about the sport. It’s about people, pressure, leadership, and running a business — all at once. And trying to navigate that alone can leave you feeling stuck, scattered, or straight-up burnt out. That’s where mentorship changes everything. Why Mentorship Is a Game-Changer Even the best athletes have coaches. Why? Because support accelerates success. The same is true for gym owners. Mentorship helps you: Gain clarity when you're overwhelmed with decisions Avoid costly mistakes that others have already learned the hard way Grow with confidence instead of second-guessing every move Stay accountable to the goals you keep putting off Feel less alone in an industry that can often feel isolating Mentorship isn’t a luxury — it’s a leadership tool From Megaphones to Music: The Evolution Justin Witnessed If any of these hit close to home, it’s time to seek guidance: You’re constantly busy but not making real progress You’re unsure how to grow without burning out You’ve hit a revenue plateau and don’t know how to scale Your staff feels disconnected or unmotivated You’re juggling 50 roles and losing the joy you once had Sound familiar? You’re not failing — you’re just trying to do it alone What a Great Mentor Can Help You With Whether it’s a seasoned gym owner, a business coach, or a leadership program, the right mentor helps you: Set better systems so your business runs smoother Build a strong team without micromanaging Increase revenue with smarter, more strategic decisions Hold boundaries and protect your time and energy Lead with confidence — not fear or guilt In short, a mentor helps you become the leader your gym needs. How to Find the Right Mentor or Coach Here’s what to look for: They’ve been where you are. Lived experience matters more than theory. They listen before giving advice. You want guidance tailored to your goals. They align with your values. Business success shouldn’t come at the expense of culture. They challenge you. Growth doesn’t happen in your comfort zone. They support you . Not just your gym, but your journey as a leader What Happens When You’re Coached Well Success, in Justin’s words, is "any forward momentum that gets you closer to your purpose." Whether he’s building events, writing curriculum, or helping run NCA Nationals, he sees progress not as perfect outcomes, but as growth in motion. “The end goal keeps changing. But each season gets us somewhere better.” The Cheer Industry Through His Eyes You feel clear. Focused. Supported. Your team starts to reflect your vision. Your systems stop falling apart. Your numbers make sense. Your stress lowers. Your energy returns. And your gym starts growing in ways that feel right — not forced. This isn’t magic. It’s mentorship. The MotUS Lens At MotUS, we don’t just believe in coaching — we live it. Every great leader needs someone in their corner. Someone who challenges your thinking, supports your growth, and keeps you aligned with your purpose. Whether it’s through the MotUS network, our resources, or trusted partnerships — we’re here to remind you: You don’t have to lead alone. Key Moves to Make: Grow with Guidance, Not Guesswork Great coaches have coaches — mentorship is a sign of strength, not weakness You’ll grow faster, lead better, and feel less overwhelmed with the right support Don’t wait for burnout to seek guidance Choose mentors who align with your values and challenge your thinking Leadership is lonely — but it doesn’t have to be Final Word You were never meant to figure it all out on your own. Your athletes get better because they have you. And you get better when you have someone, too . Mentorship isn’t a sign that you’re struggling — it’s a sign that you’re serious about growing. Because the best leaders don’t go it alone. They grow with a coach by their side.

There’s something powerful about being in the right room. Not just a room full of people—but a room full of people who get it. People who’ve walked the late nights, the team drama, the budget stretch, the burnout. People who’ve figured out something you haven’t yet—and are willing to share it. That’s exactly what happened at the 2025 MotUS Business Expo in Nashville. And to everyone who showed up? You felt it A Weekend We Won’t Forget From the rooftop kickoff Sunday night to the red carpet book launch, from laughter-filled round tables to soul-shaking sessions—this wasn’t just a conference. It was a reset. A reminder. A reignition of why we started in the first place. We watched gym owners walk in carrying the weight of leadership—and leave carrying new friendships, fresh ideas, and real momentum. The Real Takeaways (That You Can’t Get on Zoom) Sure, the sessions were powerful: Aaron Flaker reminded us of the deep why behind everything we do. Austin Bayles and Kari Pickering gave us blueprints for branding and systems. Justin Carrier challenged us to build legendary culture, not just successful businesses. Sierra Garvin poured into our hearts with servant leadership. The Round Tables got hilariously real about air fresheners, team reveals, and what MotUS can do better. But the real magic? It happened in the margins. Over coffee. On lunch walks. During late-night talks where vulnerability met strategy. That’s the power of proximity. Why All-Star Style Looks the Way It Does Many say James Speed helped define the performance-forward, fast-paced, skill-packed style we now call All-Star. But it wasn’t about flash—it was about function. He didn’t have enough athletes who could do it all. So he built routines in compartments: Tumblers tumbled. Stunters stunned. Dancers danced. And with that shift, he ushered in a category-based mindset that still shapes choreography today. You show what you’re good at. You hide what you’re not.” Sound familiar? That’s All-Star. Why It Matters You can read all the books. You can watch webinars. You can follow social media accounts that give tips and tools. But nothing compares to being in a room where people aren’t just cheering for your success—they’re handing you the map to get there. Your environment either expands you or limits you. And this room? It was electric with possibility. Mark Your Calendar for 2026 If you missed it this year, you don’t have to miss out again. The MotUS Business Expo returns to Nashville September 27–29, 2026. And trust us—we’re going even bigger. More impact. More innovation. More connections that will change your business and your life. Put it in your calendar. Set the reminder. Start the budget line. Because getting in the right room might be the most important decision you make next year. See you in 2026. Same city. Bigger vision. Because who you learn from—and grow with—matters more than ever. ---- Experience the magic of All Star Cheer like never before! From dazzling red carpet arrivals to the powerful presentation of The Pioneers of All Star Cheer, this unforgettable event celebrated the legends, leaders, and trailblazers who shaped our industry. The evening closed with an exclusive moment from the author, sharing the stories and spirit behind the book that honors the past, present, and future of this incredible sport. Relive the night now on YouTube : @themotusedge https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Alv9rJ46P4o

There’s something powerful about being in the right room. Not just a room full of people—but a room full of people who get it. People who’ve walked the late nights, the team drama, the budget stretch, the burnout. People who’ve figured out something you haven’t yet—and are willing to share it. That’s exactly what happened at the 2025 MotUS Business Expo in Nashville. And to everyone who showed up? You felt it A Weekend We Won’t Forget From the rooftop kickoff Sunday night to the red carpet book launch, from laughter-filled round tables to soul-shaking sessions—this wasn’t just a conference. It was a reset. A reminder. A reignition of why we started in the first place. We watched gym owners walk in carrying the weight of leadership—and leave carrying new friendships, fresh ideas, and real momentum. The Real Takeaways (That You Can’t Get on Zoom) Sure, the sessions were powerful: Aaron Flaker reminded us of the deep why behind everything we do. Austin Bayles and Kari Pickering gave us blueprints for branding and systems. Justin Carrier challenged us to build legendary culture, not just successful businesses. Sierra Garvin poured into our hearts with servant leadership. The Round Tables got hilariously real about air fresheners, team reveals, and what MotUS can do better. But the real magic? It happened in the margins. Over coffee. On lunch walks. During late-night talks where vulnerability met strategy. That’s the power of proximity. Why All-Star Style Looks the Way It Does Many say James Speed helped define the performance-forward, fast-paced, skill-packed style we now call All-Star. But it wasn’t about flash—it was about function. He didn’t have enough athletes who could do it all. So he built routines in compartments: Tumblers tumbled. Stunters stunned. Dancers danced. And with that shift, he ushered in a category-based mindset that still shapes choreography today. You show what you’re good at. You hide what you’re not.” Sound familiar? That’s All-Star. Why It Matters You can read all the books. You can watch webinars. You can follow social media accounts that give tips and tools. But nothing compares to being in a room where people aren’t just cheering for your success—they’re handing you the map to get there. Your environment either expands you or limits you. And this room? It was electric with possibility. Mark Your Calendar for 2026 If you missed it this year, you don’t have to miss out again. The MotUS Business Expo returns to Nashville September 27–29, 2026. And trust us—we’re going even bigger. More impact. More innovation. More connections that will change your business and your life. Put it in your calendar. Set the reminder. Start the budget line. Because getting in the right room might be the most important decision you make next year. See you in 2026. Same city. Bigger vision. Because who you learn from—and grow with—matters more than ever. ---- Experience the magic of All Star Cheer like never before! From dazzling red carpet arrivals to the powerful presentation of The Pioneers of All Star Cheer, this unforgettable event celebrated the legends, leaders, and trailblazers who shaped our industry. The evening closed with an exclusive moment from the author, sharing the stories and spirit behind the book that honors the past, present, and future of this incredible sport. Relive the night now on YouTube : @themotusedge https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Alv9rJ46P4o

"What are you putting in the water up there?" – Jeff Webb When Jeff Webb, founder of Varsity, asked James Speed that question, it wasn’t about hydration. It was about influence. Because when you trace the roots of some of the most iconic names, programs, and ideas in cheerleading—you’ll often find yourself back in Louisville. Back with James Speed. In this episode of The MotUS Edge, James opens up about what it means to shape a sport from the sidelines, build leaders by design, and never let a locked gym door stop your mission. From Football Fields to Cheer Floors James didn’t grow up dreaming of being a cheerleader. He was a football player with strong grades, recruited to boost a college team’s GPA. But what started on the field led him to a bigger field of influence. And soon, he wasn’t just coaching teams—he was creating a culture. That culture? It birthed an entire generation of coaches, gym owners, and choreographers. Cheer Athletics. California All Stars. GymTyme. Jam Brands. Misty Hodges. Brad Habermill. Elaine Pascale. All roads lead back to the University of Louisville, and to the man who refused to settle for average. “I didn’t just say ‘do this because I’m in charge.’ I explained why—so they understood the process. That’s how leaders are built.” Creating Space—Literally The origin of GymTyme wasn’t about business. It was about survival. After constantly getting booted from university gyms, James took matters into his own hands. He opened GymTyme so his athletes had a consistent space to train. Slowly, he acquired every piece of equipment needed—on his own terms. “Nobody was going to tell me I couldn’t train my kids.” That space became more than a practice floor. It became a hub of innovation and a launchpad for careers. Why All-Star Style Looks the Way It Does Many say James Speed helped define the performance-forward, fast-paced, skill-packed style we now call All-Star. But it wasn’t about flash—it was about function. He didn’t have enough athletes who could do it all. So he built routines in compartments: Tumblers tumbled. Stunters stunned. Dancers danced. And with that shift, he ushered in a category-based mindset that still shapes choreography today. You show what you’re good at. You hide what you’re not.” Sound familiar? That’s All-Star. The Male Athlete Dilemma: Where Did They Go? One of the most pressing points in this episode is James’ concern over declining male participation in cheer. “We’re catering to one body type—one talent set. And we’ve left big boy stunters off the score sheet.” According to James, the shift in scoring has quietly removed an entire archetype of athlete. It’s not about ability—it’s about incentive. If routines don’t reward coed strength, coaches stop recruiting it. And when that happens, young men are left without a place in the sport. His solution? Rewrite the score sheet to revalue coed roles—not by requirement, but by incentive. “If we change the score sheet now, I guarantee you we can increase male participation by 25% in two years.” The Birth of Spirit Sports Spirit Sports began like most great ideas—inconveniently. Rain ruined their first event setup in Myrtle Beach. So James and co-founder Shannon Smith scrambled, relocated to a convention center, and pulled it off in 24 hours. From there, the vision grew. Spirit Sports wasn’t just a competition. It was an experience: Free tickets to amusement parks. Golf tournaments for dads. Super Bowl viewing parties. Low admission costs. “We wanted people to leave saying, ‘That was fun,’ not just, ‘That was fair.’” This people-first approach set the tone for what great events could feel like—and still influences how competitions are run today. AccuScore & The Simplicity of Fairness James doesn’t hate judging. He just wants it to make sense. That’s why he co-created AccuScore—to give coaches clarity and judges consistency. But he’s quick to warn: overcomplication kills confidence. Most judges are passionate volunteers, not full-time professionals. If they don’t have 40 hours a week to train on the system, the system has to be simple. “You can’t just brief the judges. You have to brief the coaches, too.” Transparency builds trust. And when both sides understand the score sheet, competition becomes growth—not conflict. A Legacy That Lives On Louisville. GymTyme. Spirit Sports. AccuScore. Hundreds of leaders launched. Thousands of athletes coached. James Speed didn’t just build teams. He built systems that build people. His advice for today’s coaches and gym owners? Don’t wait for perfect—just start. The first Spirit Sports was chaos. They made it work. Design for every body. Not every athlete will be elite. Make space for each to shine. Fight for clarity. In rules. In feedback. In communication. And above all: “This sport won’t last forever. Enjoy it now—and leave it better than you found it.” Listen, Learn & Lead Forward Catch the full episode with James Speed here:  YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@themotusedge Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-motus-edge/id1786597546 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/63xUjmymxRiXHkSSEjlfOD?si=e5036453706148d9&nd=1&dlsi=02e897fb37a148ce

From the MotUS Edge archives: Dennis Werley (yes, the “meals with flames” guy) joins the crew with that rare combo of Southern charm, legal precision, and big-event vision that helped turn All-Star Challenge from a dream—and a single printer cartridge—into a movement coaches still talk about. Here’s the thing about Dennis: he doesn’t sell competitions; he sells moments. The kind that make athletes feel big, coaches feel seen, and even grumpy judges feel slightly guilty about their poker face. If you’ve ever left an event thinking, “That felt like something,” you’ve probably felt the Werley effect. Brand ≠ Backdrop (and other heresies) Dennis is allergic to vanity production. A backdrop is décor; a brand is a promise. That’s why All-Star Challenge leaned into full worlds—Clash of the Titans, Return to Atlantis, Battle Under the Big Top—where everything from the brochure to the trophy told the same story. He built trust the un-flashy way too: by flying in the very coaches who “create champions” to judge them. Country club rules applied—once you’re on the stand, you don’t trash the club. You protect the standard. It’s not nostalgia; it’s craft. The reason those events linger in your head isn’t the confetti—it’s the coherence.

There’s a moment every gym owner knows well. You’re standing in the middle of your facility—music blaring, athletes tumbling and stunting, staff asking questions, parents hovering, emails unanswered—and you think, This is my dream... so why am I so tired I could cry? That feeling? It’s not weakness. It’s not failure. It’s burnout —and it’s more common than anyone likes to admit The Hidden Cost of Caring So Much Gym ownership isn’t just about running a business. It’s about building dreams. And that level of emotional investment—while beautiful—can drain even the strongest leader if boundaries aren’t in place. You give everything: your time, your energy, your ideas, your weekends, your sleep. You show up for everyone—your athletes, your staff, your families. But who shows up for you ? Burnout doesn’t always look like shutting down. Sometimes it looks like: Snapping at people you love. Dreading the place you once adored. Feeling like no matter how much you do, it’s never enough. Lying awake wondering if you should walk away altogether. If any of this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. And you’re not broken. You’re just running on empty in a job that never truly ends. The Shift: From Hero to Human You’re not supposed to be the hero of everyone’s story. You’re supposed to be the leader of your own. And great leaders don’t just give—they build systems that allow their people, and themselves, to thrive. It starts with questions that are uncomfortable but necessary: Where am I doing everything myself because it feels safer than trusting someone else? What parts of my day are truly mine—and what have I let be claimed by everyone else? What do I need to feel human again—not just "on" all the time? Practical Ways to Lead Without Losing Yourself Here’s the truth: You can’t serve from an empty tank. But you can make changes—small at first—that refill it. Create “non-negotiables.” A daily walk. An hour without your phone. A standing appointment that isn’t cancelable—especially not by work. Delegate like your sanity depends on it. Because it does. Hire people not just to help—but to own parts of the business. Say no more often. Every yes to something small is a no to something sacred. Protect your peace. Schedule CEO time. Not coaching time. Not cleaning time. Not emergency-fixing time. Actual strategy, vision, and reflection time. Get around people who get it. Community is everything. Surround yourself with other gym owners, leaders, mentors—people who remind you you're not crazy for feeling what you feel. You Deserve to Love This Again Burnout is not a personal flaw. It’s a system problem. And systems can be rebuilt. You started this journey with a spark. That spark is still there—it’s just buried under responsibilities you were never meant to carry alone. You can run a gym and have a life. You can be a powerful leader without being constantly depleted. You can care deeply and still protect your energy. This is your reminder: You’re not just running a gym. You’re writing a legacy. Make sure it includes you in it—healthy, whole, and still in love with what you do.

Running a cheer gym is no small task. Between scheduling practices, managing staff, handling parent questions, and making sure athletes are thriving, the daily grind can feel overwhelming. In the middle of all that, it’s easy to forget one of the most powerful tools in your business owner toolkit: your network . Networking isn’t just about swapping business cards at a conference or adding another friend on Facebook. For cheer gym owners, networking is about building genuine relationships with people who can support, inspire, and challenge you — and who you can pour into as well. The old saying is true: your network is your net worth . In this blog, we’ll explore why networking matters so much in the cheer world, how to do it in a way that feels authentic (and not salesy), and the game-changing results it can bring to your business and community. 1. Why Networking Matters for Gym Owners When you own a cheer gym, you’re not just competing with the gym down the street. You’re competing with other sports, after-school programs, and even entertainment options like dance studios or club sports. In that competitive environment, relationships can make all the difference . Here’s what networking brings to the table: Shared Knowledge – Other gym owners have faced the same struggles you have: staffing issues, parent conflicts, growing pains, or financial hurdles. A strong network gives you instant access to collective wisdom. Collaboration Opportunities – Partnerships with nearby gyms, local businesses, or community organizations can open doors for events, sponsorships, or even shared resources. Emotional Support – Let’s be real: owning a cheer gym can feel isolating. Having a group of people who understand the unique challenges of your world gives you a lifeline when things get tough. Fresh Ideas & Innovation – Networking exposes you to new perspectives and strategies you might never come across if you stayed in your own bubble. Business Growth – A well-nurtured network naturally leads to referrals, new opportunities, and even doors opening for expansion. 2. Shifting the Way You See Networking For many gym owners, the word networking feels intimidating or even a little gross. You might picture a crowded conference where everyone is pushing business cards and elevator pitches. But networking — at least the MotUS way — isn’t about shallow connections. It’s about: Building relationships, not transactions. Leading with generosity. (Ask: What can I give? instead of What can I get? ) Investing long-term. Strong connections take time to grow but pay off in ways you can’t predict at the start. Think of networking as community-building. Just like you want your athletes to feel part of something bigger than themselves, networking allows you to feel part of something bigger than your gym. 3. The Formula for Staff Meetings That Rock So where do you actually go to connect with other like-minded gym owners, coaches, and business professionals? A few ideas: Cheer Conferences & Industry Events – These are goldmines for meeting peers who “get it.” Don’t just attend sessions; introduce yourself, ask questions, and follow up afterward. Local Business Associations – Chambers of commerce, small business meetups, and even entrepreneurial workshops are great for expanding your circle beyond cheer. Online Communities – Facebook groups, Slack channels, and MotUS-style collectives allow you to connect with people across the country who can share ideas and solutions. Vendor Relationships – Don’t overlook your uniform reps, event producers, and equipment suppliers. They work with gyms across the industry and often have valuable insights. Other Sports & Youth Programs – Networking with local dance studios, martial arts schools, or rec centers can lead to cross-promotions that benefit both sides. 4. How to Network Authentically The secret to effective networking is authenticity. Here are some MotUS-approved strategies: Listen more than you talk. People remember when they feel heard. Ask real questions. Instead of “So, what do you do?” try “What’s the biggest challenge your gym is facing right now?” Follow up quickly. A simple “It was great meeting you — here’s that resource I mentioned” email goes a long way. Add value before asking for value. Share an idea, make an introduction, or send an encouraging note before you ask for advice or a favor. Play the long game. Networking isn’t about instant ROI. It’s about planting seeds that grow into opportunities over time. 5. The Ripple Effect of Networking When you network with purpose, the benefits ripple out far beyond your own business. Your staff gains from the knowledge and strategies you bring back. Your athletes benefit from new opportunities, events, or collaborations you discover. Your parents feel more confident in your leadership when they see you plugged into the larger industry. The cheer community as a whole becomes stronger when gym owners share and collaborate instead of competing in silos. In short: when you win through networking, everyone around you wins too. 6. A MotUS Perspective At MotUS, we believe collaboration is the future of the cheer industry. Networking is the bridge that makes collaboration possible. By reaching out, sharing openly, and building relationships, you’re not just growing your gym — you’re helping to elevate the entire industry. Networking is not optional for cheer gym owners who want to thrive. It’s a core part of building a resilient, innovative, and supportive business. Key Takeaways Networking isn’t about sales; it’s about building authentic, lasting relationships. Strong networks provide shared knowledge, collaboration, support, and growth opportunities. Seek networking opportunities in the cheer world and beyond (conferences, local business groups, online communities). Lead with generosity and authenticity — give before you expect to receive. When you build your network, the ripple effects strengthen your athletes, staff, parents, and the industry as a whole. Final Word Your gym’s future is bigger than what happens inside your four walls. The people you connect with, learn from, and collaborate with will shape the way you grow — both as a business owner and as a leader. Don’t underestimate the power of your network. In the cheer gym world, your network really is your net worth.

Ask any coach or staff member how they feel about meetings and you’ll probably get an eye roll. Too often, staff meetings feel like long lectures, information dumps, or — worse — a waste of time that could’ve been spent coaching. But here’s the truth: staff meetings don’t have to be boring or unproductive. In fact, when done well, they can be one of the most powerful tools you have to build culture, strengthen communication, and get everyone aligned around your vision.  In this blog, we’ll break down how to turn your staff meetings into motivating, purposeful sessions that your team actually looks forward to. 1. Why Staff Meetings Matter Even if your gym feels small, staff meetings are essential because they: Keep everyone on the same page – No more confusion about schedules, expectations, or policies. Strengthen culture – Meetings reinforce your core values and the way you want staff to interact with athletes and parents. Build leadership skills – They give coaches and staff opportunities to share ideas and take ownership. Create alignment – When everyone understands the bigger picture, they work better together. Prevent fires – Addressing small issues in meetings keeps them from turning into big problems. 2. The Biggest Mistakes in Staff Meetings Let’s be honest — the reason staff meetings have such a bad reputation is because of how they’re usually run. Common mistakes include: Too much talking, not enough listening – Owners and directors dominate instead of creating dialogue. No agenda – Meetings feel random, scattered, and never-ending. Information overload – Reading every detail that could’ve been sent in an email. Lack of follow-up – Decisions get made but never implemented. Negativity focus – Only discussing what went wrong instead of celebrating what’s going right. 3. The Formula for Staff Meetings That Rock Here’s a MotUS-approved structure that keeps meetings effective, efficient, and energizing: 1. Open with Wins (5–10 minutes) Start on a positive note. Ask coaches to share highlights from the week — athlete breakthroughs, parent shoutouts, or fun moments. This builds morale and sets the tone. 2. Review Core Values (5 minutes) Pick one value to spotlight. Share a story of how it showed up in the gym that week. This keeps culture front and center. 3. Key Updates (10–15 minutes) Share important info like schedule changes, upcoming events, or policy reminders. Keep it concise — what staff must know. 4. Staff Voice (15–20 minutes) Open the floor. Let staff bring up challenges, brainstorm solutions, or share ideas. This turns your meeting into collaboration, not just a lecture. 5. Training or Development (15 minutes) Invest in your staff with a mini workshop. Topics could include: Conflict resolution with parents Spotting safety refreshers Social media tips for coaches Leadership development 6. Action Steps + Wrap-Up (5 minutes) End with clarity. Summarize key takeaways, assign action items, and confirm next meeting. 4. Tips for Making Meetings Engaging Keep them short – Aim for 45–60 minutes max. Rotate facilitators – Let different staff members lead sections to build ownership. Add interactive elements – Use roleplays, games, or quick brainstorms to keep energy high. Provide snacks/coffee – It may seem small, but it shows you value their time. Use technology – If staff can’t attend in person, use Zoom or record the session. 5. The Ripple Effect of Great Meetings When staff meetings are run well, they: Empower your staff to feel valued and included. Improve communication with athletes and parents because your staff is aligned. Reduce turnover because staff enjoy being part of a supportive, professional environment. Strengthen your gym’s culture by reinforcing your values and mission. 6. A MotUS Perspective At MotUS, we believe leadership isn’t about having all the answers — it’s about creating space for collaboration, growth, and shared vision. Staff meetings are one of the most practical, overlooked ways to do this. Done right, they don’t drain energy; they create it. Key Takeaways Staff meetings aren’t optional — they’re vital for alignment and culture. Avoid common mistakes like no agenda, too much talking, or negativity. Use a clear structure: Wins, Values, Updates, Staff Voice, Development, Action Steps. Keep meetings short, interactive, and collaborative. Great meetings empower staff, reduce turnover, and build culture. Final Word Your staff is the heart of your gym. When they feel informed, valued, and invested in, they pour that same energy into your athletes and families. Don’t waste your staff meetings. Use them as a leadership tool to grow your people — and your gym.

"We said, okay, we're gonna call them All-Star." That single sentence sparked a transformation in cheer history. In this MotUS Edge podcast episode, we sit down with the legendary Lance Wagers to uncover the moments, memories, and mindsets that built the cheer industry as we know it. This isn’t just a look back—it’s a masterclass in leading with vision, love, and purpose. From Cheer Camp to Cheer Culture: The Origin of All-Star In 1984, Lance and his late wife Carol noticed a challenge in the cheer world: teams competing at high school nationals weren’t truly "school teams." Their solution? Create a new category—"All-Star." One conference room conversation later, and the All-Star division was born. In 1985, they hosted the first official All-Star Nationals. What started as a solution became a revolution. “The first event wasn’t huge, but it became everything.” From Gym Floors to Global Impact: Cheerobics & ACA Lance didn’t just innovate on the competition floor. He helped create Cheerobics as a warm-up and skills system for camps and gym programs. Later, he opened two Cheerobics gyms to give athletes—especially those who didn’t make school teams—a place to train and grow. After adopting two daughters from Brazil, Lance stepped into a new leadership role as president of ACA, a Varsity-owned brand that combined faith-based leadership with cheer education. It blended faith, fun, and fundamentals to shape better athletes and better people Five Leadership Lessons from Lance Wagers Here are five core takeaways gym owners and small business leaders can apply today: 1. Lead with Love, Not Ego “Herky gave us full trust to run NCA. He never had his thumb on us.” Trust empowers leaders to grow. Create space for your team to lead. 2. Big Movements Start Small One ballroom A $10 Cheerobics license A few hundred athletes Start where you are, use what you have. 3. Relationships Build Legacy From decades judging at FCC to mentoring rising stars, Lance shows that real success is built on lasting relationships. 4. Your Influence Goes Further Than You Think “Coaches influence how athletes behave in tough moments. I love watching that example unfold.” Model leadership. Your athletes (and team) are always watching. 5. Retirement Might Just Be a New Chapter Lance thought he was done. Then he became a dad again, led ACA, and found new ways to serve the industry. “I knew we were meant to do this. Carol said she was afraid I’d say yes.” That single act of courage and compassion echoes the kind of leadership we all need more of. A Moment That Hits Home: Fatherhood, Faith & Cheer One of the most powerful stories in the episode? Lance and Carol’s decision to adopt two girls from Brazil. What started as a mission trip turned into a life-changing decision. Overnight, they became parents again—navigating language barriers, high school transitions, and everything in between. For Gym Owners: Apply the Wisdom Take these actions inspired by Lance: Reconnect to your “why.” Empower your team to lead. Say yes to unexpected opportunities. Invest in the people around you—relationships are your most valuable asset. Why This Episode Matters Lance Wagers’ story is more than history—it’s a leadership guide. He reminds us: Our beginnings shape our legacy. Leading with heart creates lasting impact. The future of cheer is built on purpose and people. Whether you're coaching your first team or running a growing gym, this conversation is a reminder to lead boldly—and to leave things better than you found them. Listen, Learn & Lead Forward Ready to hear the full story? Catch the episode on your favorite platform: YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify Then join us at the MotUS Business Expo, Sept 28-30 in Nashville. Leadership, community, and growth—built for gym owners like you.