Shoes Off Mics On Thu, 05 Mar 2026 17:01:27 -0500 https://www.buzzsprout.com/2521542 en-us © 2026 Shoes Off Mics On yes 65ff904b-7780-5a98-ad77-7e83ca341637 rachellafave1211@gmail.com Rachel and Liv episodic false Welcome to Shoes Off, Mics On!

A podcast that dives into the world of competitive cheerleading from the perspective of two experienced cheer coaches. From behind the scenes stories to coaching tips, team dynamics, and personal experiences, this show offers an honest and relatable look at life on and off the mat.

Whether you're an athlete, coach, parent, or just curious about the cheer world, you'll find real conversations, useful insights, and a supportive space to connect with the cheer community!

New episodes every week - no shoes required.

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) Rachel and Liv rachellafave1211@gmail.com https://storage.buzzsprout.com/p9zcbxciwcoaciznglu7r5a12xm6?.jpg Shoes Off Mics On Episode 23: Majors Predictions! Episode 23: Majors Predictions! Welcome back to Shoes Off, Mics On!

In this week’s episode we share our predictions for The Majors 2026! Some surprising some not so surprising! We hope you enjoy!!

Send a text

]]> Welcome back to Shoes Off, Mics On!

In this week’s episode we share our predictions for The Majors 2026! Some surprising some not so surprising! We hope you enjoy!!

Send a text

]]> Buzzsprout-18504235 Wed, 14 Jan 2026 10:00:00 -0800 879 23 full false Episode 22: Why Guilt Exists In Cheerleading Episode 22: Why Guilt Exists In Cheerleading Welcome back to Shoes Off, Mics On!

In this episode we talk about why guilt exists in cheer and why it shows up so often for coaches and athletes. We dive into feeling guilty about missing practice, taking rest days, missing big life moments, worrying about letting your team down, and how this mindset develops in the cheer world. If you’ve ever felt guilt in cheer, you’re not alone! We hope you enjoy!!

Send a text

]]> Welcome back to Shoes Off, Mics On!

In this episode we talk about why guilt exists in cheer and why it shows up so often for coaches and athletes. We dive into feeling guilty about missing practice, taking rest days, missing big life moments, worrying about letting your team down, and how this mindset develops in the cheer world. If you’ve ever felt guilt in cheer, you’re not alone! We hope you enjoy!!

Send a text

]]> Rachel and Liv Buzzsprout-18466633 Wed, 07 Jan 2026 10:00:00 -0800 1690 22 full false Episode 21: Comp Week…Again! Episode 21: Comp Week…Again! Welcome back to Shoes Off Mics On!

We’re back with another comp debrief! Breaking down what went well, what surprised us, and what we’re taking into the next one. From scores to behind the scenes moments, we’re giving you the real rundown of how this comp felt from our side of the mat. Tune in for honest reactions, new goals, and all the post comp vibes. We hope you enjoy!

Send a text

]]> Welcome back to Shoes Off Mics On!

We’re back with another comp debrief! Breaking down what went well, what surprised us, and what we’re taking into the next one. From scores to behind the scenes moments, we’re giving you the real rundown of how this comp felt from our side of the mat. Tune in for honest reactions, new goals, and all the post comp vibes. We hope you enjoy!

Send a text

]]> Buzzsprout-18332413 Wed, 10 Dec 2025 10:00:00 -0800 1072 21 full false Episode 20: What We Wish Cheer Parents Knew Episode 20: What We Wish Cheer Parents Knew Welcome back to Shoes Off, Mics On!

In this episode, we get honest about the things we wish cheer parents truly understood. From the pressure behind the scenes to the dedication it takes to show up every day, we unpack the realities of being an athlete that parents don’t always see. Whether you’re a cheer parent, athlete, or coach, this one’s for you. We hope you enjoy!!

Send a text

]]> Welcome back to Shoes Off, Mics On!

In this episode, we get honest about the things we wish cheer parents truly understood. From the pressure behind the scenes to the dedication it takes to show up every day, we unpack the realities of being an athlete that parents don’t always see. Whether you’re a cheer parent, athlete, or coach, this one’s for you. We hope you enjoy!!

Send a text

]]> Rachel and Liv Buzzsprout-18295360 Wed, 03 Dec 2025 13:00:00 -0800 1182 20 full false Episode 19: It’s Comp Week!! Episode 19: It’s Comp Week!! Welcome back to Shoes Off, Mics On!

In this weeks episode, we break down our very first competition of the season! The highs, the hiccups, and everything in between. We talk about what went well, what surprised us, and what we’re focusing on next as we head into the rest of the season. Come hang out for an honest debrief, team vibes, and a look at how we’re leveling up from here! We hope you enjoy!!

Send a text

]]> Welcome back to Shoes Off, Mics On!

In this weeks episode, we break down our very first competition of the season! The highs, the hiccups, and everything in between. We talk about what went well, what surprised us, and what we’re focusing on next as we head into the rest of the season. Come hang out for an honest debrief, team vibes, and a look at how we’re leveling up from here! We hope you enjoy!!

Send a text

]]> Rachel and Liv Buzzsprout-18254336 Wed, 26 Nov 2025 10:00:00 -0800 965 19 full false Episode 18: Showcase Debrief! Episode 18: Showcase Debrief! Welcome back to Shoes Off, Mics On!

In this episode, we sit down for a full debrief of our Royal Reveal showcase! The highs, the hiccups, the moments that had us screaming, and everything in between. We break down what went well, what we’re excited to fix, and the things we cannot wait to show off next time. It’s honest, a little chaotic, and totally us. Tune in for the behind the scenes recap you didn’t know you needed. We hope you enjoy!!

Send a text

]]> Welcome back to Shoes Off, Mics On!

In this episode, we sit down for a full debrief of our Royal Reveal showcase! The highs, the hiccups, the moments that had us screaming, and everything in between. We break down what went well, what we’re excited to fix, and the things we cannot wait to show off next time. It’s honest, a little chaotic, and totally us. Tune in for the behind the scenes recap you didn’t know you needed. We hope you enjoy!!

Send a text

]]> Rachel and Liv Buzzsprout-18216390 Wed, 19 Nov 2025 10:00:00 -0800 1999 18 full false Episode 17: Which Teammate Are You? Episode 17: Which Teammate Are You? Welcome back to Shoes Off, Mics On!

In this weeks episode we’re breaking down the 10 types of teammates! From the loud one and the perfectionist to the snack supplier and the tiktoker. Expect laughs, team stories, and those moments every cheerleader relates to. 💕🎀 We hope you enjoy!

Send a text

]]> Welcome back to Shoes Off, Mics On!

In this weeks episode we’re breaking down the 10 types of teammates! From the loud one and the perfectionist to the snack supplier and the tiktoker. Expect laughs, team stories, and those moments every cheerleader relates to. 💕🎀 We hope you enjoy!

Send a text

]]> Buzzsprout-18176305 Wed, 12 Nov 2025 10:00:00 -0800 1378 17 full false Episode 16: Rating 2026 Stunts & Uniforms! Episode 16: Rating 2026 Stunts & Uniforms! Welcome back to Shoes Off, Mics On!

We’re back with another cheer reaction! This time, we’re rating the 2026 cheer stunts and uniforms! From jaw dropping elotes to the newest uniform trends, we’re breaking down the best looks and skills hitting the mat. We hope you enjoy!!

Send a text

]]> Welcome back to Shoes Off, Mics On!

We’re back with another cheer reaction! This time, we’re rating the 2026 cheer stunts and uniforms! From jaw dropping elotes to the newest uniform trends, we’re breaking down the best looks and skills hitting the mat. We hope you enjoy!!

Send a text

]]> Buzzsprout-18136704 Wed, 05 Nov 2025 10:00:00 -0800 1311 16 full false Episode 15: Rating 2026 Cheer Mixes Episode 15: Rating 2026 Cheer Mixes Welcome back to Shoes Off, Mics On!

In this episode, we’re rating the first cheer mixes of 2026! From iconic voiceovers to jaw-dropping beat drops, we break down what made this season’s music so good and which mixes didn’t quite hit the mark. We hope you enjoy!

Send a text

]]> Welcome back to Shoes Off, Mics On!

In this episode, we’re rating the first cheer mixes of 2026! From iconic voiceovers to jaw-dropping beat drops, we break down what made this season’s music so good and which mixes didn’t quite hit the mark. We hope you enjoy!

Send a text

]]> Rachel and Liv Buzzsprout-18094954 Wed, 29 Oct 2025 10:00:00 -0700 1770 15 full false Episode 14: It’s Go Time!! Episode 14: It’s Go Time!! Welcome Back to Shoes Off, Mics On!

In this episode, we dive into all things competition season! From perfecting routines and managing nerves to balancing school, training, and recovery, we’re breaking down what it really takes to be ready when it counts. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or gearing up for your first comp, this episode is packed with tips, motivation, and real talk about the grind behind the glam. We hope you enjoy!

Send a text

]]> Welcome Back to Shoes Off, Mics On!

In this episode, we dive into all things competition season! From perfecting routines and managing nerves to balancing school, training, and recovery, we’re breaking down what it really takes to be ready when it counts. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or gearing up for your first comp, this episode is packed with tips, motivation, and real talk about the grind behind the glam. We hope you enjoy!

Send a text

]]> Rachel and Liv Buzzsprout-18053154 Wed, 22 Oct 2025 10:00:00 -0700 1844 14 full false Episode 13: BOO! Episode 13: BOO! Welcome Back to Shoes Off, Mics On!

In this weeks episode we’re joined by a special guest Maile from Ghost Recon, who shares her incredible cheer journey. From her early days in the sport to the unforgettable moment she and her team made it all the way to the podium at Worlds. We talk about the ups and downs of competitive cheer, the mindset it takes to perform under pressure, and what it really feels like to achieve one of the biggest milestones in the sport. Whether you’re an athlete, a cheer fan, or just love a good story about perseverance and passion, this episode is one you don’t want to miss! We hope you enjoy!

Send a text

]]> Welcome Back to Shoes Off, Mics On!

In this weeks episode we’re joined by a special guest Maile from Ghost Recon, who shares her incredible cheer journey. From her early days in the sport to the unforgettable moment she and her team made it all the way to the podium at Worlds. We talk about the ups and downs of competitive cheer, the mindset it takes to perform under pressure, and what it really feels like to achieve one of the biggest milestones in the sport. Whether you’re an athlete, a cheer fan, or just love a good story about perseverance and passion, this episode is one you don’t want to miss! We hope you enjoy!

Send a text

]]> Rachel and Liv Buzzsprout-18017415 Wed, 15 Oct 2025 15:00:00 -0700 1954 13 full false Episode 12: ANOTHER Cheer Game! Episode 12: ANOTHER Cheer Game! Welcome back to Shoes Off, Mics On!

This week, we put our cheer knowledge and quick thinking skills to the test with a fun 2025 cheer game! From iconic routines to pop quiz moments, it’s the perfect mix of skill, spirit, and laughs. Whether you’re on the mat or on the sidelines, you’ll love this one! We hope you enjoy!

Send a text

]]> Welcome back to Shoes Off, Mics On!

This week, we put our cheer knowledge and quick thinking skills to the test with a fun 2025 cheer game! From iconic routines to pop quiz moments, it’s the perfect mix of skill, spirit, and laughs. Whether you’re on the mat or on the sidelines, you’ll love this one! We hope you enjoy!

Send a text

]]> Rachel and Liv Buzzsprout-17979821 Wed, 08 Oct 2025 15:00:00 -0700 1524 12 full false Episode 11: Life Beyond The Mat Episode 11: Life Beyond The Mat Welcome back to Shoes Off, Mics On!

Walking away from competitive cheer isn’t just leaving a sport, it’s leaving an identity, a lifestyle, and a community. In this episode, we dive deep into the emotional, physical, and personal journey of transitioning out of cheerleading, by discussing a recent article by Cheer Updates. From the “aha” moments that signal it’s time to move on, to the challenges of rebuilding identity, handling sacrifice, and finding purpose beyond the mat, we explore what it really means to let go. Whether you’re an athlete facing this decision or someone reflecting on life after cheer, this conversation sheds light on legacy, mental health, and how to honor your past while stepping boldly into what’s next. We hope you enjoy!



Send a text

]]> Welcome back to Shoes Off, Mics On!

Walking away from competitive cheer isn’t just leaving a sport, it’s leaving an identity, a lifestyle, and a community. In this episode, we dive deep into the emotional, physical, and personal journey of transitioning out of cheerleading, by discussing a recent article by Cheer Updates. From the “aha” moments that signal it’s time to move on, to the challenges of rebuilding identity, handling sacrifice, and finding purpose beyond the mat, we explore what it really means to let go. Whether you’re an athlete facing this decision or someone reflecting on life after cheer, this conversation sheds light on legacy, mental health, and how to honor your past while stepping boldly into what’s next. We hope you enjoy!



Send a text

]]> Rachel and Liv Buzzsprout-17933978 Wed, 01 Oct 2025 15:00:00 -0700 2834 11 full false Episode 10: The Outside View Episode 10: The Outside View Welcome back to Shoes Off, Mics On!

When your out on the mat, two groups are watching. Judges and parents. In this episode, we dive into how both shape the cheer experience, from pressure to funny moments, and what their feedback really means! We hope you enjoy!

Send a text

]]> Welcome back to Shoes Off, Mics On!

When your out on the mat, two groups are watching. Judges and parents. In this episode, we dive into how both shape the cheer experience, from pressure to funny moments, and what their feedback really means! We hope you enjoy!

Send a text

]]> Rachel and Liv Buzzsprout-17896334 Wed, 24 Sep 2025 15:00:00 -0700 1309 10 full false Episode 9: Big Comp vs Small Comp Episode 9: Big Comp vs Small Comp Welcome to Shoes Off, Mics On!

In this episode we dive into the world of cheer competitions with a head to head look at big comps vs small comps. From the energy of massive arenas to the tight knit vibe of local events, we break down the pros, cons, and unique experiences each brings to athletes, coaches, and fans. Whether you’re chasing the big stage spotlight or appreciating the personal touch of smaller comps, this conversation highlights what makes both so valuable in the cheer world. We hope you enjoy!

Send a text

]]> Welcome to Shoes Off, Mics On!

In this episode we dive into the world of cheer competitions with a head to head look at big comps vs small comps. From the energy of massive arenas to the tight knit vibe of local events, we break down the pros, cons, and unique experiences each brings to athletes, coaches, and fans. Whether you’re chasing the big stage spotlight or appreciating the personal touch of smaller comps, this conversation highlights what makes both so valuable in the cheer world. We hope you enjoy!

Send a text

]]> Rachel and Liv Buzzsprout-17857926 Wed, 17 Sep 2025 10:00:00 -0700 2509 9 full false Episode 8: Mental Block Talk Episode 8: Mental Block Talk Welcome back to Shoes Off, Mics On!

In this episode we dive into the world of cheer training both the physical grind and the mental battles that come with it. From long practices and conditioning to the frustrations of mental blocks, we talk about how athletes push through challenges, support each other, and find ways to break through barriers. Whether you’re a cheerleader, coach, or parent, this conversation will give you a real look into the highs and lows of training and the mindset it takes to keep going. We hope you enjoy!

Send a text

]]> Welcome back to Shoes Off, Mics On!

In this episode we dive into the world of cheer training both the physical grind and the mental battles that come with it. From long practices and conditioning to the frustrations of mental blocks, we talk about how athletes push through challenges, support each other, and find ways to break through barriers. Whether you’re a cheerleader, coach, or parent, this conversation will give you a real look into the highs and lows of training and the mindset it takes to keep going. We hope you enjoy!

Send a text

]]> Rachel and Liv Buzzsprout-17819770 Wed, 10 Sep 2025 10:00:00 -0700 2536 8 full false Episode 7: The Cheer Game! Episode 7: The Cheer Game! Welcome back to Shoes Off, Mics On!

This week we’re diving into the world of All Star Cheer with a quiz game that puts our skills, knowledge, and spirit to the test! From stunts and tumbling to the history of the sport, this challenge is packed with energy, laughs, and maybe even a few surprises. Think you know All Star Cheer better than we do? Play along and see if you can beat our scores! Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or a die hard fan, this episode is all about celebrating the sport we love. We hope you enjoy!

Send a text

]]> Welcome back to Shoes Off, Mics On!

This week we’re diving into the world of All Star Cheer with a quiz game that puts our skills, knowledge, and spirit to the test! From stunts and tumbling to the history of the sport, this challenge is packed with energy, laughs, and maybe even a few surprises. Think you know All Star Cheer better than we do? Play along and see if you can beat our scores! Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or a die hard fan, this episode is all about celebrating the sport we love. We hope you enjoy!

Send a text

]]> Rachel and Liv Buzzsprout-17778598 Wed, 03 Sep 2025 10:00:00 -0700 1926 7 full false Episode 6: Choreography To Comp Episode 6: Choreography To Comp Welcome back to this week’s episode of Shoes Off, Mics On!

In this episode, we dive into the exciting transition from choreography to comp season. We share our best techniques, what’s worked for us, and the most common things to avoid. Whether you’re a cheerleader, coach, choreographer, or just curious about the process, you won’t want to miss this! We hope you enjoy!


Send a text

]]> Welcome back to this week’s episode of Shoes Off, Mics On!

In this episode, we dive into the exciting transition from choreography to comp season. We share our best techniques, what’s worked for us, and the most common things to avoid. Whether you’re a cheerleader, coach, choreographer, or just curious about the process, you won’t want to miss this! We hope you enjoy!


Send a text

]]> Rachel and Liv Buzzsprout-17739122 Wed, 27 Aug 2025 10:00:00 -0700 2406 6 full false Episode 5: The Cheer Chat Episode 5: The Cheer Chat Welcome back to Shoes Off, Mics On!

In this  episode, we dive into the world of competitive cheer. No set agenda just real talk, fun questions, and plenty of cheer chatter. If you love the sport, the community, or just want to hang out with us behind the mic, this one’s for you. We hope you enjoy!


Send a text

]]> Welcome back to Shoes Off, Mics On!

In this  episode, we dive into the world of competitive cheer. No set agenda just real talk, fun questions, and plenty of cheer chatter. If you love the sport, the community, or just want to hang out with us behind the mic, this one’s for you. We hope you enjoy!


Send a text

]]> Rachel and Liv Buzzsprout-17699673 Wed, 20 Aug 2025 10:00:00 -0700 2294 5 full false Episode 4: The Truth About Burnout Episode 4: The Truth About Burnout Welcome back to Shoes Off, Mics On!

In episode 4, we take a deep dive into one of the toughest challenges young athletes face: burnout. From endless practices to the pressure of competition, we explore the physical, mental, and emotional toll youth sports can take especially in the cheer world.

We’ll talk about how to spot the early signs of burnout, share personal stories from athletes and coaches, and discuss what teams, parents, and athletes can do to build a healthier sports culture. Whether you’re a cheerleader, a parent, or just love youth athletics, this conversation will give you insight, practical tips, and maybe a few “been there” laughs along the way. We hope you enjoy!!

Send a text

]]> Welcome back to Shoes Off, Mics On!

In episode 4, we take a deep dive into one of the toughest challenges young athletes face: burnout. From endless practices to the pressure of competition, we explore the physical, mental, and emotional toll youth sports can take especially in the cheer world.

We’ll talk about how to spot the early signs of burnout, share personal stories from athletes and coaches, and discuss what teams, parents, and athletes can do to build a healthier sports culture. Whether you’re a cheerleader, a parent, or just love youth athletics, this conversation will give you insight, practical tips, and maybe a few “been there” laughs along the way. We hope you enjoy!!

Send a text

]]> Rachel and Liv Buzzsprout-17662502 Wed, 13 Aug 2025 10:00:00 -0700 3911 4 full false Episode 3: From D2 to D1- Alana’s Journey Episode 3: From D2 to D1- Alana’s Journey Welcome back to Shoes Off, Mics On!

In this episode, we’re thrilled to have our friend Alana join us to share her incredible cheer journey! Alana takes us through her experience transitioning from a D2 program to a D1 program, highlighting the challenges, the successes, and the lessons she’s learned along the way. Whether you’re an aspiring athlete or just love a great inspirational story, this episode is for you! We hope you enjoy!


Send a text

]]> Welcome back to Shoes Off, Mics On!

In this episode, we’re thrilled to have our friend Alana join us to share her incredible cheer journey! Alana takes us through her experience transitioning from a D2 program to a D1 program, highlighting the challenges, the successes, and the lessons she’s learned along the way. Whether you’re an aspiring athlete or just love a great inspirational story, this episode is for you! We hope you enjoy!


Send a text

]]> Rachel and Liv Buzzsprout-17622692 Wed, 06 Aug 2025 10:00:00 -0700 2391 3 full false Episode 2: Comp Day Chaos! Episode 2: Comp Day Chaos! Welcome to Episode 2 of Shoes Off, Mics On! 
Comp day isn’t just about hitting zero, it’s about early call times, hairspray clouds, glitter everywhere, and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with it. In this episode, we’re talking about all the real stuff: the prep, the pressure, and the perfectly curled ponytails. From spray tans to pre-comp nerves, we’re taking you behind the scenes of what it really takes to look and feel stage-ready. It’s messy, it’s magical, it’s comp day chaos!


Send a text

]]> Welcome to Episode 2 of Shoes Off, Mics On! 
Comp day isn’t just about hitting zero, it’s about early call times, hairspray clouds, glitter everywhere, and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with it. In this episode, we’re talking about all the real stuff: the prep, the pressure, and the perfectly curled ponytails. From spray tans to pre-comp nerves, we’re taking you behind the scenes of what it really takes to look and feel stage-ready. It’s messy, it’s magical, it’s comp day chaos!


Send a text

]]> Rachel and Liv Buzzsprout-17583288 Wed, 30 Jul 2025 10:00:00 -0700 4749 2 full false Shoes Off Mics On, Episode 1: Meet Your Coaches Shoes Off Mics On, Episode 1: Meet Your Coaches Welcome to the very first episode of Shoes Off, Mics On! We’re Rachel and Liv; former competitive cheer athletes turned coaches with over a decade of experience on the mat. From long practice nights and competition days to team bonding (and drama), we’ve lived every side of this sport.

In this intro episode, we’re sharing how we got into cheer, what coaching has taught us, and why we started this podcast in the first place. You’ll get a feel for who we are, what we’re about, and what kinds of stories, advice, and things you can expect in future episodes.

If you’re part of the cheer world, or just curious, welcome to the family!

No shoes required. Let’s do this!

Send a text

]]> Welcome to the very first episode of Shoes Off, Mics On! We’re Rachel and Liv; former competitive cheer athletes turned coaches with over a decade of experience on the mat. From long practice nights and competition days to team bonding (and drama), we’ve lived every side of this sport.

In this intro episode, we’re sharing how we got into cheer, what coaching has taught us, and why we started this podcast in the first place. You’ll get a feel for who we are, what we’re about, and what kinds of stories, advice, and things you can expect in future episodes.

If you’re part of the cheer world, or just curious, welcome to the family!

No shoes required. Let’s do this!

Send a text

]]> Rachel and Liv Buzzsprout-17546472 Tue, 22 Jul 2025 10:00:00 -0700 3029 1 full false