In this episode of Cheer: The British Way, we’re joined by Jibreel Rayam, President and Founder of the AIA, for an open and thought-provoking conversation about the future of allstar cheerleading.
Jibreel breaks down what the AIA is, why he founded it, and the gaps he saw within the sport that needed challenging. Together, we explore how allstar cheer can evolve, what change could look like in the UK, and how athletes, coaches, and programme owners may be impacted moving forward.
Co-hosted by Ant Ridgway and Tori Rubin, this episode dives into big questions, honest perspectives, and the bold ideas shaping the next chapter of cheerleading.
Whether you’re an athlete, coach, parent, or fan of the sport, this is a must-listen discussion on where cheer is heading, and how we get there. #NotJustCheer
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In their very first Back in the Day episode, Tori and Ant rewind the clock and dive into the nostalgia that shaped their cheer journeys. From early competitions and old-school routines to the moments that defined an era, they reflect on how cheer has evolved through their own experiences. This short-form series is all about remembering where it started, laughing at the throwbacks, and celebrating the history that made cheer what it is today.
Perfect for anyone who lived it, loved it, or wishes they’d been there.
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In this episode of Cheer: The British Way, we dive deep into the incredible rise of Gymfinity, one of Wales’ fastest-growing cheer programmes. Founder Zoe shares the raw, unfiltered story of how she built a brand-new programme from the ground up and led it all the way to a bid to Worlds in just three years.
We explore the challenges, breakthroughs, late nights, and big decisions that shaped Gymfinity’s journey, and how their success has had a ripple effect across the wider Welsh cheer community. From creating opportunities for young athletes to raising the competitive standard in Wales, this is a story of determination, vision, and genuine grassroots growth.
If you love cheer, entrepreneurship, or behind-the-scenes stories of building something extraordinary, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. #NotJustCheer
In this eye-opening episode of Cheer: The British Way, hosts Tori Rubin and Ant Ridgway sit down once again with the brilliantly knowledgeable Rachel Lynch, better known as The Cheerleading CEO. Listen as they unpack a question every parent and athlete has asked at some point: “Why is cheerleading so expensive?”
From competition fees and uniforms to the lesser-known costs like training space, staffing, travel, and behind-the-scenes logistics, we break down exactly where the money goes, and why. Whether you’re a new cheer parent, a seasoned athlete, or a coach wanting to better communicate value, this episode shines a light on the hidden investments that make this sport what it is.
Expect an honest conversation, expert insight, and plenty of “aha” moments as we explore the true cost of cheerleading in the UK.
#NotJustCheer
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In this episode, hosts Tori and Ant sit down with Aron Awofadeju, Unity Cheerleader, coach, and star of BBC’s I Kissed a Boy, to explore the themes of LGBTQ+ identity, inclusion, and belonging within the world of cheerleading.
Together, they unpack the question: Is cheer really a safe space? From Aron's personal experience to the community as a whole, the conversation reveals how cheer stands apart from other sports as a space where people from all backgrounds come together, celebrate individuality, and truly belong.
Expect laughter, honesty, and inspiration as the trio highlight why cheerleading is a supportive and accepting family unlike any other.
In this exciting episode, we officially welcome Ant Ridgway as the new co-host of Cheer: the British Way! Together, Tori and Ant dive deep into the fascinating world of cheerleading careers, exploring how the sport has opened up brand-new career paths across the UK.
From coaching and choreography to judging, gym ownership, media, and event production, they uncover the real opportunities that have grown from the UK’s cheer scene. Discussing what it really takes to turn your passion into a full-time career as a part of the #NotJustCheer campaign.
Whether you’re an athlete, a coach, or someone dreaming of working in the world of cheer, this episode is packed with insight, honesty, and inspiration.
Podcast Hosts:
Tori Rubin - Owner of Unity Allstars Ant Ridgeway - Director of EMCA
In Part 2 of our journey through the roots of UK cheerleading, we continue exploring the history with Ant Ridgeway (EMCA), Angela Green (Ascension Eagles), and Rachel Lynch (North East Cheer & The Cheerleading CEO).
This continuation picks up where the nostalgia left off. Exploring the next chapters of their stories, the pivotal moments that pushed the sport forward, and the resilience it took to keep cheer growing in the UK. From building teams and shaping culture, to navigating setbacks and celebrating big wins, this conversation offers raw honesty, humour, and plenty of inspiration.
Whether you’re a coach, athlete, or just curious about how British cheer evolved, you’ll walk away with a richer understanding of the passion that built today’s thriving community.
✨ Tune in for more stories, lessons, and laughs that prove once again — it’s #NotJustCheer, but a movement that continues to inspire generations.
Podcast Host: Tori Rubin – Owner of Unity Allstars
Guests:
Ant Ridgeway – Director of EMCA
Rachel Lynch – Owner of North East Cheer & The Cheerleading CEO
Angela Green – Director of Ascension Eagles
In this episode, we take a trip down memory lane with three trailblazers of the UK cheerleading scene — Ant Ridgeway from EMCA, Angela Green from Ascension Eagles and Rachel Lynch from North East Cheer and The Cheerleading CEO.
Together, we explore their founder stories, discuss the challenges, breakthroughs, and funny moments that shaped their journeys. From the good old days of simple beginnings (and yes, CD players!) to the growth of cheer into the thriving community we know today. This conversation is packed with nostalgia, inspiration, and lessons for the next generation of athletes and coaches.
✨ Tune in for laughs, insights, and a celebration of how far British cheer has come, proving it’s #NotJustCheer, but a movement of passion, resilience, and community.
Podcast Host: Tori Rubin - Owner of Unity Allstars https://unityallstars.com/
Guests:
Ant Ridgeway - Director of EMCA
Rachel Lynch - Owner of North East Cheer & The Cheerleading CEO
Angela Green - Director of Ascension Eagles