In 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 this episode:

• How elite cheer coaches build trust and athlete buy-in

• Communication strategies that motivate without breaking confidence

• Leadership lessons athletes carry beyond cheer

• Keeping teams focused through injuries, setbacks, and long seasons

• Creating a culture that athletes and families want to be part of

Perfect for:

• All-Star Cheer Coaches

• Cheer Gym Owners

• Youth, High School & Competitive Cheer Coaches

• Cheer Parents & Athlete Leaders

• Anyone passionate about cheerleading culture and leadership

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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 and why it was created
• How international All Star cheer is expanding faster than ever
• The sport’s long‑term push toward the Olympic stage and hopes for 2032
• How AIA’s global championship model differs from Worlds and other major events
• Why summer competition could transform the All Star season
• The importance of leadership, relationships, and trust in the cheer industry
• Jibreel’s journey with Team Canada and his role in global cheer development

In 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 why the relationship between a coach and a choreographer is critical to success.

In this episode, we discuss:

The Evolution of Nationals: Hank reflects on attending his 40th High School Nationals and how the event has grown from small rural schools to a massive, multi-division event.

Building a Legacy: Kim explains the "Team Burlington" philosophy, the importance of monthly mandatory parent meetings, and how to teach discipline and critical thinking to build leaders.

Choreography Secrets: Hank reveals that a routine is 75% coaching, why teams need to "live in" their choreography before changing it, and the importance of stamina over skills.

The Coach’s Responsibility: Why coaches must know the rules book inside and out rather than relying solely on choreographers.

Work-Life Balance: Kim opens up about her battle with breast cancer, the support of her cheer family, and the necessity of delegating tasks to survive burnout.

Memorable Quote: "Winning is a luxury, that's not a goal... Making good humans is a full-time job." — Hank Light.