Becoming A Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader with Jasmine Goode

Summary

---

Detox Retox with Tom Schwartz

Episode: "Becoming A Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader with Jasmine Goode"

Date: September 23, 2025
PodcastOne

---

Episode Overview

In this dynamic episode of Detox Retox, Tom Schwartz sits down with Jasmine Goode—TV personality and former Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader—to pull back the curtain on one of pop culture’s most iconic and exclusive dance teams. The conversation explores Jasmine’s journey from New Jersey to the heart of Texas, the grueling audition and training process, the culture shock, sisterhood, physical and emotional demands, and what being a DCC truly means—past, present, and future. The duo examines both the allure and the sacrifice behind the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders (DCC), offering listeners an honest, intimate glimpse into Jasmine’s life on and off the field.

---

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. The Allure and Reality of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders

• Emmy-nominated Netflix show revival: Tom notes the renewed fascination with DCC thanks to Netflix's "America's Sweethearts" (06:10).
• Legacy and public perception: Jasmine highlights that even as an alumnus, she hasn’t watched the new series, reflecting on her CMT experience and how it differs from today (06:22).

"I cheered Cowboys for three years. It was the time of my life... now they have this show on Netflix... I was on the first show they ever had—CMT, Making the Team."
— Jasmine Goode (06:39)

2. The DCC Selection Process: Pressure, Perks, and Personality

• Hyper-competitive tryouts: Hundreds audition, only 36 make the roster. Jasmine recounts moving to Texas with little assurance she’d make it through training camp (15:26 - 16:05).
• Not just about dancing: Jasmine stresses personality, showmanship, and speaking skills as key to selection—not just technical dance (14:24 - 15:07).
• Testing and discipline: In Jasmine’s era, new members had to pass a 100-question test on Cowboys and football history (11:45 - 12:13).

“We had to take a test. 100 questions. About the Cowboys’ history, the cheerleading history, about football in general. But I don’t think they do that anymore.”
— Jasmine (11:45)

3. Motivation, Sacrifice & The Money Question

• Passion, not profit: Both Tom and Jasmine interrogate the lack of financial incentive, emphasizing DCC is a passion project; many cheerleaders must hold down other jobs (16:13 - 17:27).
• Fringe benefits: Local celebrity, unique experiences, sisterhood, and future opportunities in dance or entertainment are common motivators (21:07 - 21:57).

"It's a passion project, really… we weren't getting paid anything back in the day. You had to have a job... I loved dancing. I wanted to be a part of the best."
— Jasmine (16:49)

4. Culture Shock: From Jersey to Texas

• Southern manners and appearance: Jasmine describes acclimating to Texas customs; “bless your heart” and always dressing up, even for brunch, due to alumni scrutiny (36:14 - 36:36).
• Strict rules and public scrutiny: Alumni monitor candidates’ behavior and attire even off duty (35:47 - 36:32).

“They took a picture of us at brunch and sent it to another cheerleader and was like, why are your training camp candidates looking like this? Because we had sneakers and jeans…”
— Jasmine (35:50)

5. Discipline, Body Image, and Mental Health

• The pressure to be perfect: Jasmine recalls public critiques of weight and appearance—worse in the CMT era than now (28:42 - 29:27).
• Mental fortitude: She compares the experience to going “into battle,” emphasizing the toll on mental health and the camaraderie required to persevere (29:45).

“It’s mentally… it took a toll on me. It's not just being the dance part. You’re going into battle. Is your mind right for this?”
— Jasmine (29:45)

6. Camaraderie, Sisterhood and Alumni Life

• Enduring bonds: DCC alumni share a lasting sisterhood, returning even decades later for reunions and special halftime performances (20:25 - 20:57).
• Post-cheerleading traditions: Alumni continue to connect, including group dances at weddings and annual events (44:26 - 44:46).

“Once you’re in, you are in. The alumni association is so tight… we do our halftime show with all the alumni from the 60s to now. Every class does a dance on the field.”
— Jasmine (20:27)

7. Changes Over Time: Social Media, Benefits, and New Motivations

• Old school vs. new era: Jasmine notes past restrictions—i.e., no social media posts in uniform, strict rules—are now relaxed; today’s cheerleaders build brands and earn extra money (26:05 - 26:36, 32:27 - 32:52).
• Stepping stone effect: Modern DCC stints can lead to careers in entertainment, choreography, or via influencer culture (27:53).

“I’m sure they're making hella money now, these girls, and they're allowed to do TikToks in their uniform. We could never.”
— Jasmine (32:34)

8. Strict Conduct & Professional Boundaries

• No fraternization with players: Dating players was strictly prohibited and grounds for dismissal (26:44 - 27:12).
• No outside appearances: All paid events went through Cowboys management; personal monetization was forbidden (27:18 - 27:51).

9. Reflecting on the Experience—Good, Bad, and Would You Do It Again?

• Looking back: Jasmine acknowledges both the hardships and the intense pride of having been a DCC, saying she wouldn’t do it now, but cherishes the memories and lessons (33:19 - 34:02).
• Changing motivations: She contrasts her era’s focus (passion, prestige) with today’s (influence, opportunities), noting cheerleading’s diminished “glamour” due to increased, diversified dance career paths (39:24 - 32:27).

"There was so many good things... Yes, I would go back, but I don't want to put my mind—my mental game—I don't think is ready for what it was back then."
— Jasmine (40:36)

---

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On the DCC Training Camp:
  “I cried so many nights being called into the office… ‘Jasmine, you’re clunky’. I’m like, what?” (16:06)

• On Team Prestige:
  “Every girl, you think about NFL cheerleading, you think of the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders… I’ll die on this hill—the Cowboys cheerleaders are epic.” (17:36)

• On the Pressure:
  “Have you watched CMT Making the Team?… Yes, they would talk about how you looked, your image, your weight… Print it out on a board and you would see it—danger zone.” (28:56)

• On Camaraderie:
  “Once you’re in, you are in… The alumni association is so tight.” (20:25)

• On Texas Culture Shock:
  “‘Bless your heart’—that means F you. OK? If anybody says ‘bless your heart’, you know it doesn’t mean ‘bless your heart’.” (25:32)

---

Timestamps for Important Segments

• Experience with DCC Shows & Becoming a Cheerleader: 06:10 – 09:21
• Auditions, Tests & Early Struggles: 11:34 – 16:05
• On Motivation and (Lack of) Financial Upside: 16:13 – 17:56
• Camaraderie and Sisterhood: 20:25 – 21:57
• Perks & Celebrity in Texas: 21:07 – 22:11
• Rules, Scrutiny & Social Conduct: 26:44 – 27:51
• Physical, Mental & Emotional Toll: 28:42 – 29:45
• Culture Shock, Dress Code, Southern Charm: 35:47 – 36:36
• Would You Do It Again?/Reflecting Back: 33:19 – 34:02; 40:36
• NBA vs. NFL Cheerleading: 45:45 – 46:30

---

Conclusion

This episode dives deep into the trials, triumphs, and transformations of becoming a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader—and what that experience reveals about sports, show business, and American culture. Jasmine Goode’s candor offers a vivid, personal account of what it takes to make it on the most high-profile cheer team in the world—and why, even with little financial reward, so many women still dream of donning those iconic boots and pom-poms. Tom’s curiosity and Jasmine’s honesty make this a must-listen for anyone intrigued by the world behind the DCC mystique.

---

For follow-up questions or to request a part two, listeners are encouraged to message Tom or Jasmine.

Transcript

[A]

If you thought goldenly breaded McDonald's chicken couldn't get more golden, think Golder. Because new sweet and smoky special edition gold sauce is here made for your chicken favorites at. Participate in McDonald's for a limited time.

[B]

It's now time for your weekly detox with Tom Schwartz.

[A]

You guys. Sunday Funday. Monday night Football. Thursday Night Football Friday. This is the best time of the year, you guys. Fall is officially here. We are locked TF in. You know what else I'm locked in on right now? America's sweethearts. Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders. Netflix season two Emmy nominated. It's so good. And I'm just fascinated by this world. And I'm really, really, really happy to report that day. We have a special guest. You might know her from the Valley. Jasmine. Good. She's an amazing human being and I'm honored to call her my friend, which you might not know about her. She was a professional football NFL cheerleader. Yeah, I know. She's been there, done that. She's lived that life. She was all in all, completely in. Just. I'm so fascinated. I have so many questions. How does one become a professional football cheerleader? How does one end up on that path? Yes, I'm genuinely curious. But, yeah, football's here. It's the best time of the year. You know it. I know it. I know you like summer, too, but it's over. Let it go. It's time to fire up some Buffalo chicken. Queso dip, maybe a cold beer, preferably icy cold Coors. That and just relax all day on your couch. Couple parlays in the mix, by the way. Falcons banned for one year minimum. They cost me a 17 parlay. That would have been like 7 or 8k. Yes, I know. It's insane. I'm not even a high roller. But I was locked in and the Falcons really blew that one. Are you guys with me, though? Is September the best month of the year? Because we're on the precipice of all the holidays. Fall is here. The days are a little shorter and the air is a little crisper. It's like September for me. Maybe it's not my actual favorite month of the year, but it's like. It's like being at the airport when you're about to go fabulous international vacation. You were your friends. You're at the airport, you're getting morning cocktails, you're laughing, and you're planning out your trip to Cabo, and you don't have a care in the world. That's how I feel every year around September 1st. Just like the anticipation is almost better than the trip itself. Oh, I'm anticipating. I'm anticipating, baby. You better believe it. Just fall makes me peaceful. I feel like everything slows down a little bit. Like everyone's still working hard, hustling. But something just. There's like, I don't know, something about NFL season. Cool autumn breeze just washes over all of America. You know what I'm talking about? Don't act like you don't. But yeah, you guys, I'm really excited. I'm really excited for today's guest. Really excited. How does one become a professional cheerleader? Because it is grueling, it's hyper competitive, cutthroat. You have to work your ass off and just to make the roster. There's 36 people on a roster, I think. And listen, I say this with the utmost respect, but the compensation, the pay, it's capped. It's capped. I mean, according to the Internet, like the most, the highest paid cheerleaders are actually on the Dallas Cowboys and they're maybe making upwards of $75,000 a year. It's nothing to sneeze at. Okay, we know that's a lot of money, but, like, I don't think it is for the amount of work and commitment, the devotion you have to put into becoming a cheerleader. I don't know. There's a. Listen, we're going to get into it. There's fringe benefits. It's a passion project, a lot of intangibles, you know, and. Yeah. Are you with me? I'm excited for this one. Genuinely. I'm excited for every episode, but I just. I'm really hyped on this one. I feel good about it. I'm so grateful that I finally get to sit down and talk with Jasmine. She's just an amazing human being and she has such an interesting, fascinating life. So what's it like to be a professional cheerleader? I'm not gonna yap anymore. Let's just go find her. Let's sit down, let's have a cold one. It's Sunday, it's fun day, and we're gonna do the damn thing. Okay. All right, we'll pick back up, but Jasmine, Here we go. What is it like to have been a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader? Wow. Let's go, Jasmine. Good.

[B]

Yes. Where are we?

[A]

What are we doing?

[B]

We're here. We are. It's Sunday. Funday football. Cowboys are playing. They're not doing great, but, you know, we're here together and we're finally Doing this Cowboys.

[A]

There's deep, deep waters there.

[B]

Yes, I.

[A]

Can we get into it a little bit?

[B]

Yeah. You need to know about my history with the Cowboys.

[A]

Wait, do a lot of people know this? I feel like nothing.

[B]

I don't. Okay. I've talked about it so many times, but I think people forget or. I don't know. But, yeah, let's talk about it.

[A]

Okay. So recently I've been watching.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

A new show. It's not that new. Two seasons in. It's on Netflix. It's called America's Sweethearts.

[B]

Yep.

[A]

Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders. How does that resonate with you?

[B]

You know, I haven't watched it, and I. And that's really sad. And I know. I know. I'm an alumni if people don't know this. I cheer for the Cowboys for three seasons, and I was actually on a show. Oh, yeah, there's my beautiful fiance. She's here with us. Hey, y'. All.

[A]

She's.

[B]

Y', all, she's not. She's from Jersey, so that was from New Jersey. What are you guys talking about? Cowboys.

[A]

She's gone country.

[B]

She's so beautiful. Yeah, I love her. But, yeah. I cheered cowboys for three years. It was the time of my life. And it's crazy because now they have this show on Netflix. It's like, huge Emmy nominated, which is crazy because I was on the first show they ever had back in the day.

[A]

CMT.

[B]

Emmys for that.

[A]

CMT.

[B]

CMT. Making the team. That's where it really went down.

[A]

16 seasons is so. You guys. I don't. I'm gonna take a moment. I'm take a breath. There were 16 seasons of this show. Do you guys know this?

[B]

And it was great.

[A]

Do you know this, Jasmine?

[B]

Yeah, because I re. When I was, you know, training to do the Cowboys, I watched every season. I need to do my research. Like, I didn't know what these girls are doing. What's it gonna take? And what I was watching is not what they're doing now on, you know, Netflix.

[A]

I'm like, it's more regimented, more disciplined, or just.

[B]

I feel like it's just different because I feel like, you know, back then we were like. I mean, if you watch cmt, making teams like this was like military style. You know, we were like the training camp. I think they focus more on, like, making the team.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Because it was called making the Team. I think the Netflix show, from what I'm hearing, is more about sharing, seeing the girls lives, I guess.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

So maybe you're not really Getting what? What it took to make the team. I don't know.

[A]

I didn't watch the CMT one, but the new one's very intimate.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

They go in, they kind of chronicle what's going on in their personal lives, the trials and tribulations.

[B]

Yeah, we didn't do that.

[A]

There's one girl. I forgot her name, but. Oh, Dayton. Are you watching anyone?

[B]

I know who Dayton is and her mom. Yes, I know Dayton. Yes. Dayton was a baby when I was on the team, though. It's so crazy, like, seeing her. Beautiful. Being a dancer now, I'm like, oh, I'm so proud of. Proud of her. Like, you know, she was, like, so little when I was there.

[A]

Which is crazy because you're so youthful to me.

[B]

Oh.

[A]

The fact that you've led, like, so many lives.

[B]

I know. It's crazy. That's why I can't wait for my book to drop, y'. All.

[A]

Oh, my God. Well, no, Dayton said I was watching season two, I think, episode one or two, and she's like, I'm trying out for the third time this season, and can you.

[B]

Don't get me started on it. I get so mad. Yeah. I have a group chat with, like, my girls. I cheer with my rookie year, and I literally. I didn't watch the show, but I saw, like, a meme or something pop up on Instagram, and I'm like, wait, Dane got cut again. I sent it to the girls. I was like, what is going on down there in Texas? I'm like, dan is beautiful. She has, from what I see, everything it takes to be a cheerleader. And I'm confused. Did the criteria change? Because I know I'm not the best dancer. I was never the best dance, but I knew that, like, I had other things I brought to the team, like showmanship. I was a good spokesmodel. Like, there's things you have to.

[A]

What are the. In your opinion? I know it's changed, but it's so sad. I thought you were about to kiss me.

[B]

You thought I was about to kiss you? Whose voice is that? I was going to say hello. Wait, that was Britney, everybody.

[A]

Detox Retox is sponsored by Better Help. Guys, can we talk about therapy for a second? I love therapy. Better Help, to be exact. I went saw the Giggly Squad. It was a while ago now, but they. I used to do this bit. It's like things guys will do instead of going to therapy. And it's so funny. It's done with a wink, like, facetiously. It's Also like a meme on the Internet. I've been guilty of a lot of them. Therapy? Nah. I'm gonna start a YouTube channel on ancient Rome. Maybe take some ayahuasca. Oh, maybe I'll start a podcast. Kidding. Listen, BetterHelp is so convenient, comforting, BetterHelp therapists work according to a strict code of conduct and are fully licensed in the U.S. also, one thing I love is BetterHelp does the initial matching for you so you can focus on your therapy goals. And there's like a short questionnaire. Helps you identify your needs, your preferences. 10 plus years of experience and industry leading match fulfillment rate means you typically get it right the first time. And if you're not happy with your match, you could switch it up. It's super flexible, super easy. Over 30,000 therapists. BetterHelp is the world's largest online therapy platform, having served over 5 million people globally. It's the real deal. I recommend it also as the largest online therapy provider in the world, BetterHelp can provide access for mental health professionals with a diverse variety of expertise. Find one with BetterHelp. Our listeners. My listeners get 10% off their first month. Check it out. It's betterhelp.com tomshwartz that's better. H E L P.com tomshwartz Listen. Do it. Okay. Can we go back in time for a second?

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

I love time travel on this show. What were the criteria in your mind to the best of your recollection?

[B]

I remember, but what it used to be back when I was on the team and remember this was 2000. I made the team 2012. So this is like a long time ago, you know, like, this is back in the day. But we had one.

[A]

What year? What year?

[B]

So I made the team 2012 in a different three season. So like, but it's just different time. I mean, not that long ago. But the thing is, when I did the team right, I don't think they do this anymore. We had to take a. A test. We had to take a test. 100 questions. Questions. What the Cowboys history, the cheerleading history. About football in general. But I don't think they do that anymore. So I'm like, okay, I guess you don't need to take a test, but.

[A]

Do you think you could still pass it?

[B]

No, absolutely not.

[A]

Oh, you crammed for it.

[B]

Oh, yeah. I have flashcards. Like, I was really like, this is serious. Like, you cannot fail that test. You will not make the team.

[A]

Jazz. I think the.

[B]

This looks serious. This wasn't a joke.

[A]

We're Getting into this. I know, I know. It's like boot camp at the. My biggest question is, and I have to be so careful how I word this. I don't understand how. Because, listen, it's not the most lucrative job.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

But there's a fiery passion for. What was the catalyst? Is it something in your soul?

[B]

You know, you born with it, Bo? You born it? Maybe. No, in Texas. These girls, like, they breed them. It's like, this is what they do. Like, cheerleading is such a big deal.

[A]

Down America, sweethearts.

[B]

It's huge, right? I'm from Jersey. I'm coming here. It's culture shock to me. Me, I'm like, whoa, how did you end up there? So I cheer for the Jets. Before that, my friend Danielle, she was also just cheerleader. And we were like, you know what? We wanted to go for the best because our director, or the jets, she was a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader. So we always looked up to her. We're like, oh, one day we want to, like, be the top team, you know?

[A]

Did you cheerlead in high school?

[B]

Yeah, all through high school. Did competitive cheering as well. Dance. So, like, that's kind of. I've been in this world, like, all my life. Did musicals, the whole, like, entertainment thing. Yeah. I'm like, I've been entertainment all my life. People, they were like, jasmine's on all these shows. I'm like, yeah, but it's just. This is my life. I've been in it, you know? So one day, my friend was like, you want to go to Texas? Try for the best team in the world. Country. And I was like, you know what? Let's do it. I don't think we're going to make it. Because I looked, I was like, I don't know. This is going to be hard, you know, but we went there. We did it. We made the freaking team. I'm. It was the hardest thing in my life. Like, I got called into the office. I don't know if they show that a new show, but I got called in, like, every night. I think I was actually, like, the star of that season, being told, like, you're the worst dancer.

[A]

If you want to go back and watch your season, what season should we watch?

[B]

I don't know the number. I don't know, like, the numbers, but it was. I don't know. I want to say maybe season 10. If you said there was 14 seasons, then maybe it was around season 10, I would think, because three, four years after I made. They got rid of the show. So I'm guessing maybe season 10. I don't know. Somebody tell us, like, reach out and let me know. I would love to see it.

[A]

So you and your friend, on a whim.

[B]

Yep. Trained. And we went to Texas and we made the team.

[A]

But you were well equipped before you made the leap of faith.

[B]

Yeah, like, we clearly. I cheered in the NFL already, so I don't know, maybe that might have helped us, like, having a little input. Like, who knows? I'm sure our director, you know, sent a little recommendation down to Texas. Like, these are my girls coming. But that doesn't matter because they will still cut your ass. Okay? They don't care. You saw D and she got cut and she was like a legacy, basically. It doesn't matter. Like, you know, you have to have as. You just had to have it, you know, I think some people just have it and you don't or you don't, you know, Personality, showmanship. It's not just about being the best dancer. I was not the best dancer in that room, but I know, like, I had personality. I had, like. I can be in a room with people, have a conversation like. Like, you know, they trust me with that. So I think it's not just about being like, the girl who could do like five pirouette turns in a row, you know.

[A]

So you're saying it's Chirocracy.

[B]

Chy.

[A]

If you haven't watched either of the shows, CMTS or the new one on Netflix, it is, yeah. Competitive. Hundreds of women compete. And it's. It's very. It's hyper competitive. Only 36 make it to the roster.

[B]

Yeah, and that's. So the training camp, they take about maybe like 40 because they have to cut people throughout the summer. So that's another thing. I moved to Texas knowing I wasn't even on the team. So when I auditioned, they were like, okay, you're not even on the team yet. You're just. This is going into training camp. So I was like, oh, my God, we have to move to Texas like, right now. So literally that same weekend, her, my friend Danielle, both our parents can, you know, they were there. We found apartment in like 24 hours. Had to get all this furniture shout out to, you know, court furniture. We had to get all these rentals because we were. We don't know what to do. We're like, we just moved from Texas. I'm sorry. We're moving to Texas. And one day, notice, like, happened so fast. Training camp starts on Monday. We made the team, like, Saturday night.

[A]

Both made the team.

[B]

Yes, well, sorry. Made training camp. We made into training camp first. And then you have to spend your whole summer battling it out, which you're not even sure you're on the team. You're taking pictures in the uniform. You're doing all this stuff that's like, basically you're on the team, but you're not until they announce it. Like, you are on the team. Like, the squad. Like, I cried so many nights being called into the office like, this is. This is Jasmine. You're clunky. All this. I'm like, what?

[A]

This is where it's so fascinating because my.

[B]

Some of my.

[A]

Okay, I'm not. Some of my friends are like. They're sacrificing so much for so little. Yeah, we don't.

[B]

I don't think it was worse back then.

[A]

Money is not it. I love money, but it's not a huge. It's not my primary motivator in life. I don't. What was your primary motivator to be on the team?

[B]

Yeah. You know, back then, it wasn't about money, clearly, because we weren't getting paid anything back in the day. I mean, we were getting paid pennies. Like, you had to have a job. So for me was the motivation of just like, I love dancing. I think it was proving something to myself that I wanted to be the best. I want to be a part of the best. And there's a quote we have in dcc. It's like. It's like, we have this thing, it's called, like, unite. You're going to always promise yourself. It's called the promises. You promise yourself to always work for the best. Be, you know, be the best. Like, all these different things. And I'm like, I still to this day think about that. And, like, that's why I wanted to be a Dallas guy with trailer. I was like, I'm not going to go audition for any other team. I came from the Jets. I can't just go backwards. I mean, sorry, no shade to any.

[A]

Other teams out there, but the jets just caught astray.

[B]

No, but I love the jets and. But they always have a place in my heart.

[A]

But America's underdog, everybody.

[B]

I'm telling you, every girl you think about NFL cheerleading, you think of the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders. I don't care. I don't care. Anybody. I'll die on this hill. The Cowboys cheerleaders are epic. They're iconic. And, like, at that time, me being a dancer coming from another NFL team, I said, I got to make this team. There's no other way. And if I get cut, I'm not trying out again. I was like, I have to make this squad.

[A]

What was speaking to you in that moment? What do you think you're pro? I. I know you kind of just.

[B]

Answered it, but yeah, just of wanted to be.

[A]

Was it just a fire within an in innate fire? That's.

[B]

Yeah. I think it's cuz I started. It's like I started something and I'm not going to just like not finish it. And even though they were calling me every night. You're not the good dancer, Jasmine. You, you, you, you know you need more practice all this. I was like, it's okay because I'm going to practice, I'm make this team and I'm going to show you guys I have what it takes.

[A]

Did you ever lose faith or hope or get discouraged or think did it was it?

[B]

Yeah. There's definitely moments where I literally, I remember standing there like if you watch cmt, I don't know if they do this now on Netflix, but you. They would have a standing there give you critiques in front of everyone while everyone's sitting down. They're like, Jasmine, get up. You're going to dance. Not do it again. Just you and whoever and you just have to do it. But I was like, you know what? It's all right. I was built for this. Okay. I was built for this. I can do it. I'm strong. I don't know where the power came from deep inside I said I'm not going to. I didn't come all the way from Jersey to like just lose. Okay. I was like I'm making this damn team and I did.

[A]

Okay. You just spoiled the whole podcast.

[B]

Sorry.

[A]

No, but I just.

[B]

Yeah, it's.

[A]

Yeah, this is, it was Jazz, first of all, thank you for doing this with me.

[B]

Yeah, it's.

[A]

I. So yeah, I had to be. I was like in my head I did. I was like, I have to be careful the way I phrase this because it me it's so hard to understand because I guess in my mind the, the upside is low. Limited, at least financially.

[B]

Yeah, there's no money in this but.

[A]

I, I know they've, they've raised the wages but it's still not great.

[B]

I mean I heard that. I saw some article that they're getting paid now. Like really? I'm like, okay, this is what they, they should be having a salary. It should be a salary position. Yes, it's a part time job but it's a full time commitment. Okay, we get that, but there needs to be a salary. Like, something these girls like injuries. Like, I spray. I almost had to have surgery. My meniscus. Like, you're jump splitting. You're shouldn't be dancing in heels. That's the number one doctor. My. My doctor. I was seeing about my injury at the time. And the Cowboys, he's like. He's like, I don't know why they got you guys in cowboy boots dancing. He's like, you guys should not be dancing in heels. And I'm like, I know. On turf. And I'm like, I know, but what do you want us to do? He's like, yeah, you're right. Like, you got to keep doing it, I guess.

[A]

It's physical, it's emotional. I'm talking about time. We have a limited amount of this beautiful planet. It's a major sacrifice.

[B]

Yeah. Money. There was like, that's why for me, it wasn't. I wasn't money motivated to make the scene because if I was, I would not have done. Done it for three years. It was more like for myself. I thought this was the, like, being the highlight of my career. I loved it.

[A]

Was there a sisterhood of camaraderie?

[B]

We definitely had, like, the sisterhood. Once you're in, you're in. Like, I'm telling you, the cow. The alumni association is so tight. It's crazy. Like, I'm still a part of it. Like, we actually have our halftime show coming up next month where all the alumni come back and they do it from all the years from the 60s to now present. And every class, you do like a dance on the field. It's so cute. So it's nice still being a part of it. It's. You still.

[A]

You still feel that?

[B]

Yeah. Once you're in, you are in. I feel like no matter what, even if you get cut, whatever it is, like, once you make that team, you are Dallas co sh for life.

[A]

Oh, supposed to talk in the mic.

[B]

Sorry.

[A]

I'm doing a podcast.

[B]

Tom's over here. We're like, getting.

[A]

No, no, no. But this is making more sense to me now. What about.

[B]

It's a sisterhood, for sure.

[A]

Wait, can I ask you about fringe benefits? Like, what are the cool perks that come with being a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader? Jasmine, a beautiful.

[B]

There was so many.

[A]

Wait, like, we don't have to go.

[B]

I mean, first of all, when you're in Texas, right? You have to understand at this time, maybe is different now, but maybe it's still the same. I'm thinking you are like a celebrity. And I didn't realize the level of it until I went to the store. And I was in the store, literally, I think I was buying, like, milk. I don't know what it was. And this person came up to me. I was like, oh, my God, are you Jasmine? You're a Dallas guy's cheerleader, right? And I'm like, hold up. This is my first year on the team. How'd you know that? But it's just like, they're Dallas fans. They know their cheerleaders. They know. And you don't understand our locker room, they have like, you go on a tour there, people know who you are. They do a tour and talk about us. Like, the tour guide's like, this is Jasmine. You know, she was on Making the team. Like, they do this whole thing so people. People recognize you in text and you're like, wow, I'm a little celebrity.

[A]

You were Johnny Moss.

[B]

I'm getting milk and somebody asking me like, this is weird. I'm from New Jersey. Like, so it's. It's definitely like this feeling of like, wow, you really made it in Texas. If you were Dallas Cow Australia.

[A]

Wow, okay.

[B]

It's.

[A]

This is actually starting to make sense to me.

[B]

And it's because I don't think other states care as much about cheerleading. Or like, they're like, we have cheerleaders here, right? In the LA Rams. No one. I'm saying we don't care about them, but I don't think people are like, oh, my God, the Rams cheerleaders are here. Like, Cowboys cheerleader is like a thing in Texas. It's like your Dallas Cow cheerleader. Epic, iconic.

[A]

Guys. Harmony check. How you doing? Lately you end out. How's your happy place? I'll tell you about mine lately. End of the day, I'm in bed. The sheets are freshly washed, it's cold. Gordo and Butters right next to me, Antiques Roadshow queued up. I have one 20 milligram sour apple soda shop gummy, and I am cruising. I'm in a happy place. Maybe a nice little chamomile tea. This is my bliss, my little reward at the end of the day. I love it. If you guys don't know about Indecloud, I know it sounds too good to be legal, right? But it is. Indicloud's products are farm bill compliant, third party tested. And they're made for grown ups like us who want a little buzz without driving to the dispensary that's only seven miles away. But takes an hour because you live in la. That's right. Order it online. Easy peasy sour apple squeezy. And remember, we're not going to feel bad about feeling good. We're leveling up, but we have harmony. It's okay to treat yourself. So whether you're chasing deeper sleep, maybe like better focus, or just some peace in between your crazy life, this is how adults get elevated now. So if you're 21 or older, now's your chance to float above the stress in your happy place, a happy cloud. Because Indecloud is giving all new customers 25% off their first order, plus free shipping. I'm a sucker for free shipping. It works every time, but just use the code retox or click the link in the show notes and claim your discount. That's Indecloud. I n d a c l o u d.co I'm gonna say that again, guys. That's IndeCloud.co I n d a c l o u d.co Use the code RETOX for free shipping, plus 25% off your first order. Fill out the quick survey when you order to support this show and make your week a little chiller, a little more Zen. All thanks to indycloud. Yeah. Did it ever feel too clicky or too mean girly ever? Or was it. Was it mostly love?

[B]

I will say, like, I think this is. This doesn't sound bad, but I think a thing that, like, a lot of I learned in tech Texas in general, not just from the cowboys girls or anything, people love to do this whole like, bless your heart or like smile to your face and how you're back, they're like, you know, So I think it's a lot of that just in general with Texas women, you know, it's a lot of fake to their face. I wouldn't say it's a cheerleading thing, but I just think it's in general. A lot of Texas women like to do this. Like, oh, you're so. Bless your heart. That means F you. Okay. If anybody says bless your heart, you know, doesn't mean bless your heart. It means F you. But anyway, you guys. But the te. Sorry, but that's a fact.

[A]

That's your heart. You're so sweet.

[B]

So sweet. Bless your heart. I'm like, okay, wait.

[A]

People tell me I'm so sweet all the time.

[B]

Yeah, but is that bad? Maybe not. It could be bad. They're probably saying F you corny. No. But yeah, the clickiness. I don't think we really had that in a team, I'm sure, like, when you're a rookie, it's like you have. Have to pay your dues and stuff. But it really was like a sisterhood. I mean, I didn't feel like there was any bullying or anything like that when I was on the team. I'm sure now it might be different because social media is such a big thing. We weren't allowed to do social media when we were on the team. Now they're allowed to do it because you have to go with the times, I'm sure.

[A]

What does that mean?

[B]

We didn't. We weren't allowed to have, like, we had. We had Instagrams. We were allowed to, like, post in your uniform. We weren't allowed to do any of that.

[A]

Really?

[B]

Yeah. No. I see girls doing TikToks in their UN uniform now. I'm like, oh, we could never.

[A]

Wow.

[B]

Yeah, we weren't allowed to do that.

[A]

It was strict.

[B]

Yeah, it was very strict back in the day. But I think you have to go with the times. And I'm sure Tick Tock blew up, so they probably realized you can't, like, tell girls who were 18 and 25, 23 to not do a Tick Tock. Like, it's gonna get out or they're gonna do it. So I think they're being, like, open to it now. But it was strict back in the day, I imagine.

[A]

Yeah. Like the, the, the, the. The. The bond, the camaraderie, the sisterhood. But, like, just of the girls did. Were they aspirational about dating some of the players?

[B]

Oh, God, no. Fraternization. You're not allowed to. What? No, wait.

[A]

Like, you could lose your job.

[B]

Yes. Wow. No, I mean, for me, I didn't go there to go date a player, but there are probably some girls who think about this or fantasize, like, ooh, if I'm a Chili, I can meet up a play. That doesn't work. It doesn't work that way. Okay. They keep us separate. We only do, like, sometimes, like, six signings. If there was like a, like a charity or something like that. We do something with the football players, but we're never, like, with them.

[A]

Were you allowed to have alternative revenue streams because that you were a cheerleader? Could you do appearances?

[B]

Oh, yeah, they did appearance, so we did appearances through the Cowboys. They would have. So this is nothing. When you didn't appearance your first year, you get paid, like, it goes by year. So I get a hundred. I'll just say it. Like, a hundred dollars. Your rookie year and then like your second year. So it's 200 every year goes up. So if you, if you're a five year veteran going one appearance, you're getting like 500 an hour. But it's like respect, but it's not that. Yeah, but being a rookie, you're not making any money. But yeah, you couldn't do anything outside on your own. Like today if I just say I want to set my own appearance up and I was a cheerleader, you can't do that. You have to go through the Cowboys. They have to set it up for you.

[A]

So it's a passion project. Really.

[B]

Honestly, I think, Yeah, I don't think people, I mean, now it might be different. I think girls are doing it now because look, they have a hit TV show, Netflix. Like, okay, who knows where that's going to take them. I mean, I think people have to think of it like it's a kind of stepping stone too. I think. Like my friend jc, she did Cowboys and then she went on to become a Rockette and then now she's the Minnesota Vikings director, cheerleading coach. So, like, it does help you. I mean, Cowboys, it can get you to other, you know, things that you want to do. So I just feel like, you know, it is a good stepping stone for, for people who want to contain the dance world but not sure where they want to go yet or. But it definitely can open doors. Cowboys or being a cheerleader in NFL.

[A]

Honestly, now I'm.

[B]

It's not money. I don't think people see the clarity of vision.

[A]

I'm seeing the stepping stone. Clarity of vision. I get it now.

[B]

Yeah, but there's no money.

[A]

But it's like, it's a. To me, it's a boot camp. You're in the military. Yes, yes. Like, are they, Are you, are they. Are they ever commenting on your weight, your body? Are you.

[B]

Have you watched CMT making the team? That's what I'm saying. Netflix the show. I don't know what they're doing on this one. I haven't watched it. But back in the day, like, I can't sit here and why it was. They don't do that. I don't. They can't do it now. But back in the day, yes, they would. You had, they would talk about how you looked, your image, your, Your weight. You know, you watch the show. These are things, I'm just, these are facts. But yes, it would be printed out on a board and you would see it. This is where you're supposed to be. This is where you need to be. Like, you're, you know, you're in trouble. Danger zone, like.

[A]

And you know what? Like, as. As I'm sitting here with you right now, I'm imagining myself. What if I'm spiraling? What if my significant other just had an affair? What if my mom or dad just passed away and they're like. And all of a sudden you see your way.

[B]

Weight. Yep. Being, like, talked about.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

It's mentally. I'm telling you, it took a toll on me. Like, it's a. Mentally exhausting. It's not just being, like, the dance part, you know, there's so much more. It's like you're going into battle, like, training. It's not just, okay, yeah, you can do five pirouettes, but is your mind right for this? Because it's all part of that, too. And remember, they're filming a TV show behind it, too. So it's like all these different layers where if there was no show. Show, I'm wondering, would it be this extreme? Would it be this dramatic? Maybe not, but, you know, you'll never know. I'm like, damn.

[A]

Do you think the old. The old show. The new show is so good? But it's. It's.

[B]

It's the old show. The old show is now. I think everybody be canceled. There be. There would be. No, no, no, no, no, no. Everyone involved, and I think they know that, too. They're like, yeah, they didn't have the old shows. Can they. They still have it. People watch it. Like, is it somewhere. I don't think you can. It was that bad, you guys. Good parts, but it was savage. Some of the stuff.

[A]

We're talking to the audience now, like, wait, can you guys. Can we still find.

[B]

Can we find it? Can you guys, like, DM it to me? Because I want to see these episodes because it's crazy. All I know is what they had back in the day, what we did, what they did to us or whatever. They cannot do that nowadays. They'll be canceled on Heartbeat.

[A]

It was different time.

[B]

It was. It's just different time too, you know?

[A]

But there is like a. Yeah, there is a. I, I, I, I do see the prestige. The prestige and the cloud. The cool. Like, it's just like they. The cowboys are America's. I, I have the quotes. I know we're not filming today.

[B]

America's Team America.

[A]

Yeah. And I get that there's clout, but. Yeah, I guess I was just trying to get inside the mind of someone who's been there, cuz yeah, there's nothing. A huge fiscal incentive, but it. It just sounds fun.

[B]

It just. Back in the day, I think it's just different. I think now people are doing it because, look, Instagram's huge. Like, take everything is meet. Social media is so big now. People are like, okay, yeah, I want to be famous or all this stuff. I think the girls at my time and when we made the team, it was not about. That was like, because we actually really love dance passion. We want to be the best. Be a part of the best team. They might be. Not be the best team winning, but the best cheer team in the country. That was the Dallas Cowboys. And that, I feel like that I think now, I don't think people who are like, trained dancers now are like, let me go be an NFL cheerleader. Back in the day, I think that was kind of like the. One of the places where people were going to. Because, like, there wasn't really eyes on dance, professional dance, you know, because there was a social media really big. In 2010, I don't think social media was like a thing, really. Instagram was the thing, but it wasn't as big as it now, so. So now it's like, okay, people have different outlets. We don't need to be an NFL cheerleader to dance. But back then, like, yeah, people like, you want eyes on you, this is where you're gonna go. The best team in the freaking country to dance right now is Dallas Cowboys.

[A]

And I think now, yeah, more than ever, it's like, you can be a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader and have a tik tok and you can make. You can make.

[B]

I'm sure they're making hella money now, these girls, and they're allowed to do tik toks in their uniform. They're probably making little extra money on their side. And I'm like, that's great, Great. I wish we had something like that for us back in the day to, like, make some extra money, you know, on our own. Not through the Cowboys, because you're not doing it. You're not making money being a cheerleader.

[A]

You have fun.

[B]

You're having fun. Perks that come with it.

[A]

Would you do it again?

[B]

Oh, man.

[A]

What would you do different?

[B]

The train.

[A]

You don't have to go.

[B]

I don't think I could do it. I think my body. Where I'm at right now, there's no way. My body can't get. I can't get there. But I would do it again because.

[A]

It was by the pool having.

[B]

I know, next to a Grill. This is a grill. Even on had the sun's peeking through. I got this hot ass robe on.

[A]

Do you think? But do you cherish. Do you cherish it?

[B]

For the most part, I do. I miss, like, not saying I don't miss it. I miss, like the. I miss my girls. Like, the game day experience. That was always the best. Thunderstruck, like standing in that. That tunnel waiting to go out, like that feeling, the chills. Like, oh, my God. Like, it's. I can't even explain it, like, unless you are a cheerleader and know what I'm talking about. But like going out on that field just, like feeling like the energy, it was great. And I. I miss that, you know, I miss being around my friends, but I'll always cherish it. And I think it's something that I can always look back and like. Sorry. I can always just look over here. Like, no, I can always just look back and just think, like. Like, wow. I did that, you know, because I was.

[A]

Because you worked your ass off.

[B]

I worked so hard. Like, you don't even know. I was like, I didn't go out. I was very, like, I was very disciplined. I didn't drink.

[A]

That's what I want to ask.

[B]

My diet was clean.

[A]

Let's talk about that for a second.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

So you wouldn't go out after a big win?

[B]

I mean, okay, after we. Okay, yes and no. Yes, as a group with the girls. But I can't go. Like, we would never go by ourselves. Yeah, we would go party. We go out, like the suburb. We were tired.

[A]

No, we're not filming. Thank God. We're not filming.

[B]

Thank God. Right, Thomas? So funny, y'. All. No, but yeah, we would literally go out to celebrate sometimes. But we were so tired half the time. I mean, I'm talking about. I didn't go out when I was training, like, to make the team. I didn't go out because people watching you, you know, like, there's alumni watching you, what you're doing when you're a training camp candidate. People, your eyes there. You're not on the team yet. But I remember going to brunch one day. This is a story. I know, it's funny. I'll tell you how deep it is, how obsessed cheerleading is. Oh, yeah. So when I was a train. Training camp candidate, I remember going to brunch with Danielle, who is another training camp candidate, and we went to brunch and we were so excited. I get. We get into to the restaurant. We're standing. We get a text or an email and somebody saying, basically, they saw us out. I guess an alumni was there, which we didn't even know because we're still new. One of the DCC alumni saw us from afar, took a picture of what we were wearing, sent it to one of the girls that were on the team that we were with, and was like, basically saying, like, your rookie should not be wearing. They should have heels on. They should have dresses on. Because we had jeans and, like, sneakers.

[A]

And so you had to stay in character. Essentially.

[B]

They took a picture of us at brunch and sent it to another cheerleader and was like, why are these. Why are your training camp candidates looking like this? Basically, because we had sneakers on and jeans. But in Texas, you have to go. That was the last time I went to brunch in flats and jeans. Ever since then, I had a dress on. I had heels on, hair done, like. Yeah. So people are watching us. They watch you, the alumni. They're everywhere.

[A]

There is, like, a certain old school Southern.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

There's a certain Americana charm when you're in Texas. It's a fine line.

[B]

Yeah. They were like, make sure they got heels on. I'm like, okay. Never again. I will have my heels on. I promise.

[A]

See, I would.

[B]

That's a funny story.

[A]

I would be. I would be.

[B]

I was like, welcome to Texas.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

From Jersey. I was like, damn, you can't wear sneakers to brunch. That I got to have a dress on and heels.

[A]

Can we wait? What about the culture shock? Like, Jersey to Texas.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

I bet all around Texas, it is not Jersey.

[B]

Everyone's like, yes. Hey, y'. All. Yes, ma'. Am. I had to say, yes, ma'. Am. You know, I don't know if they still do that on the Netflix show. Do they show them saying, yes, ma' am to Kelly and Judy?

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Okay. We had to say, yes, ma'. Am. We can't. Yes, ma'. Am. They like, you know what? You suck. Yes, ma'. Am. You don't just take it. I remember this one time. Sorry, no one understand this, but my friend Kim, she was my rookie year of a rookie season. They literally said to Kim, they were dancing. Kim, they go. They're giving critiques about the whole. All of us dancing, though. Kim, you're boring. And she. And she's just like, yes, ma'. Am. No, you can't say anything.

[A]

Schwartz, you suck. Yes, ma'.

[B]

Am. You don't argue back. You. I'm trying to make this team. Yes, ma'. Am. But I'll never forget that day when they're like, kim, you're born boring. And she was like, yes, ma'. Am.

[A]

Wait, can you take us? I don't. First of all, who says that? I'm. Say thank you again because this is so fun. And I'm. I'm. I. I'm gonna be honest.

[B]

It's just so much. So many things way.

[A]

I just did not understand why someone would want to be a cheerleader professionally.

[B]

And I get that now. I think that's what. That during the time I did it, who. I mean, everybody wanted to be a cowboy cheerleader, But I think now it's not looked at the same. I think, well, now they have a hit show. Some. Maybe that's appealing, but I don't think NFL cheerleading is as popular what it was back in the day. I. I don't think it is. I don't think it's. I think it was such a big thing in 2000, like, early 2000s. It was like, oh, cowboy cheerleader. What? Like, even when I told my parents I was doing that first, they were like, jasmine, you ain't gonna make this scene. My mom's decision was gonna make it. She's like, really? She's like, you gonna. Texas? You want to be? I was like, mom, I think I could do it.

[A]

And then she took your fever.

[B]

She took. Goes. And then she was. She's honest. She goes, how many black people on that team? I said, there's like four. That too. I was like, there's four in the whole state? I was like, there's four. She's like, really? And I was like, mom, I think I could do it, though. And I was like. She's like, you know what? I believe in you. She's like. I said I wanted to be a Disney character, and I did. I became Princess Tiana. I played Princess Tiana with Disney. So my mom always knew, I'm going to say something, put my mind to it. I'm going to do it. And I said, I'm going to be a Dallas copy Shirley. Her. I said, I'm going to do it. And I did. She was like, four people on that. Black. Black girls on the team. And you really. She said, okay, girl. I said, I'mma be. I'm going be number five.

[A]

And I was, well, you have jazz. You have a confidence and aura. I'm. I'm three feet away from you, and I can feel it. It's. You have. You just have.

[B]

Oh, you're so sweet.

[A]

You have a natural it factor.

[B]

A.

[A]

Thank you. I'm just. Yeah. Before I Did this podcast with you. I was like, how do I ask her that? I don't understand why anyone in the.

[B]

Room want to do Cheerle. I know.

[A]

Without being patronizing.

[B]

Yeah. And it was harder. I mean, I think you asking that that's valid because when I look at it now, I'm like, why would anybody want to be an F chiller? Why would you want to do this?

[A]

A lot of work.

[B]

Yes. It's a lot of work. You're not getting paid. But I think for me, I just. At that time, I thought that it was the top. It was the cream. It was like the top team. It was like, that is what you had to do. Like, you. If you make it on the Dallas Cow shield, you make it. You're killing it. I think now is not the same. Same. I think it's because there's so many different outlets now with dance tick tocks, like, people. You don't need to. You know. But at the time, DCC was like, that was it the cream. It was.

[A]

It's like, almost like, you know, the New York mantra. If you can make it here, you.

[B]

Can make it anywhere.

[A]

If you can be a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader, literally, sky's the limit.

[B]

Sky's the limit. I don't know now, though. I mean, now, like, everything's so soft these days. Is it the same? Like, I don't even know. I have to watch a show. I haven't watched the Netflix show. It's good, so I can't. But I did hear it's a little softer. That's from what I hear from my other alumni. Friends have told me it's. It's a little soft. They were like, cmt. They could never.

[A]

That's who.

[B]

You told me Netflix could never do what CMT did.

[A]

Like, but you. If you. I hate this question, but if you go back, you'd do it again. You'd still do it.

[B]

Sorry, so I spilled.

[A]

I didn't realize you'd still do it.

[B]

Would I go back and do it again? Oh. Oh, you know what?

[A]

More good than bad.

[B]

I'm gonna say yes. I'm gonna say yes because there was so many good stuff. I think about. Yes, I. I would go, but I don't. I don't want to put my. My mind, my mental game, I don't think is ready for what it was back then. Yeah.

[A]

I think it's like asking a former Navy seal.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

To be like, would you do it again? They're like, I don't want to do it.

[B]

I don't Want to know? You're right. Actually, know what I think about? Like, that's the thing. I try to block out all the bad stuff that happened and all the naked. I'm like, so. No. But then I think about the good times. I'm on that field dancing with my girls and, like, that feeling, performing. Like, if you love to perform. You understand what I'm saying? Like being at a football game performing at Cowboy. Not Cowboy Stadium, but at and T Stadium. Like, that feeling, it's just un. I can't even describe it. And that's what I love. Like, you know, the halftime shows, all.

[A]

That stuff, the camaraderie.

[B]

Yeah. But when I think about the truth.

[A]

Training part and how strict it is.

[B]

Strict.

[A]

Like, you guys, you have to go watch. Are you listening? You're not listening. Oh, my God. Are you falling asleep, listeners? No, I'm kidding. You need to go back and you need to watch all 16 seasons, and then. Yeah, maybe the first two seasons of America, sweetheart.

[B]

And you'll be like, wow. Yeah. I think people, a lot of people that watch a Netflix show have never watched CMT making the team, because if they did, it was sin Go.

[A]

You lived it.

[B]

Trust me. It was simply on the galaxy. They'd be like, what did you do back in the day? They did that.

[A]

Did you live it or did you survive it? Oh, my God.

[B]

Literally survive it. Oh, man, I love it.

[A]

But I. It makes me. Whatever it's worth to you, it makes me happy that you have fond memories of it.

[B]

Yeah, no, I do. I do have some moments. I'm like, oh, man, it was a good time.

[A]

Like, can you. Can you send me some pictures?

[B]

Of course. Yeah.

[A]

That sounds shady.

[B]

I know that sounds like you sent me some pictures. Yes. Now send you some.

[A]

But it makes me happy that you have more good memories than bad memories. And then. Yeah. Do you remember that moment right before you left Jersey with your girl? I'm not saying verbatim, but where were you guys heads at? You're like, why not? Are you so youthful? It didn't matter.

[B]

I think we just thought we were like, you know what? Like, we're from Jersey. We have this charisma. Yeah. Like, we kind of. Yeah. We kind of felt like, you know what? Like, we got. We had to be a little cocky because in my thing, I was like, you know what? Like, we're coming down here. We know we're entering a weird territory. Oh, thank you, baby. What is this? What is it? I'm scared.

[A]

Mel just brought a baby shot. Jazz is really Drinking today. This is more of a detox than.

[B]

A. I wasn't trying to drink, guys. I told Tom I did a micro dose. Dose.

[A]

We're chilling today. We're drinking a little bit. This is more of a.

[B]

What is that? Oh, I don't do scotch. Scotch. It's a very fancy scotch that tastes like a grown man. Oh, yeah.

[A]

I felt a hair sprout on my chest.

[B]

I'm trying to be on the mushroom vibe wave lately. Like, that's my thing.

[A]

So microdosing is the key.

[B]

Yeah. So that's the thing I'm trying to do, but.

[A]

Well, I want to. I don't want to keep you, but I have a million more questions.

[B]

I know. There's so many things. Things. What up?

[A]

You. Actually, I think you pretty much. Jazz, I think you. As far as I'm concerned, you pretty much nailed everything in terms of the culture. Yeah, the. I think you took a good snapshot of that time in America.

[B]

Yeah. That's the thing. People have remembered. It was a different time in the early 2000s, 2012, whatever, versus now. Why people are cheering like, you're not. It's. The mindset was different. And you think about it, Cowboys, they weren't the best team. Team, but, like, the cheerleaders were, like, looked at so iconic. Like, you made that team. Like, you said you could make it there and make it anywhere. And that's what the. I think that is the. The vibe every dancer was on at that time to go to Texas and try out for this team.

[A]

Are you friends with any of the new girls on the cast?

[B]

No. I mean, I. I've seen them. Like, I went to the alumni game two years ago, and I saw a couple of them. But, I mean, we. We have, like, alumni thing, so it's like, I see them on Instagram, we follow each other, but we don't, like, know each other like that.

[A]

Do you get alumni benefits?

[B]

There is.

[A]

I mean, just a camaraderie.

[B]

Yeah, we, like, they have alumni luncheons. They have all this stuff. Like, at my wedding, we're gonna do thunderstruck. Because, like, that's the thing, a tradition that all the, like, girls do. Like, you get married, you do thunderstruck at the wedding, and I'm like, oh, Melissa is like, you have to do it. So a couple of my girls would be there from my team who are all gonna do it.

[A]

Can you teach me choreography? I'm dead.

[B]

Okay, sure.

[A]

Wait. This is why I'm pissed we're not filming right now, because Jazz is about to teach me thunderstruck.

[B]

I'm gonna teach him how to do a kick, jump, split slam. No.

[A]

I don't want to keep you. This is so fun.

[B]

I promise.

[A]

30 minutes. Sorry, guys. I could go another hour with you.

[B]

No, it's good. So much.

[A]

And I know we just scratched the surface, but I think we accomplished. In my mind, I was like, I'm trying to get inside the head of someone who puts so much time and energy into something that has a. A capped.

[B]

Yeah, you can't. Financial upside, your age cap. You can't do it. So you're like, you know, this is a job. You only. Your window is from, like, 18 to possibly 30. I mean, there was an older. She was like, 35, but her jeans were. She rocking. But, like, realistically, you got till 28 and you're tapping out. Retiring, as they called it. Yeah, yeah.

[A]

Tap out or you retire.

[B]

Retire. You retire. I retire. Well, I retire from the Cowboys, and then I did Warriors. I did warriors for one year.

[A]

You did?

[B]

Yeah. Yep.

[A]

Hold on a sec. We were about to. We were just about to end the podcast. Now. We got.

[B]

That's a whole nother. NBA is a whole different breed, too.

[A]

What's better, NBA or NFL? Apples and oranges.

[B]

They're so different because NBA, you have three games a week. Like, you're a smaller court right in your face. More money. More money is NBA because you're dancing more. There's only one. What, how many games? Eight games this season. Home games for football. NBA, you've got games. Three games a week.

[A]

I think people don't realize that as a cheerleader, you don't travel for the travel.

[B]

You don't travel. Yep. That's another thing. You don't travel, so you're not making money. So being an NFL cheerleader is not about money. I don't think girls do it for that. It's not about meeting players. It's because it's for your own personal. You want to dance, and that's your passion.

[A]

It's good for the lore.

[B]

Yeah, I guess. Yeah.

[A]

The mom or.

[B]

Yeah, that's true. That is so true. The lore.

[A]

Jazz, how long and how often have I bothered you to do this podcast?

[B]

I know. No, I don't. I don't care. He's like, we're gonna do the podcast. I'm like, yes, we're gonna do the podcast. We're gonna do the podcast.

[A]

You guys, I've tortured her. She blocked me at one point. I'm just kidding.

[B]

No, I did not block him. And I'M so excited. I was so excited that you want to do this because I think people forget that I'm. I was a dcc. And there's so many levels to it.

[A]

But there's so many levels to you.

[B]

When you mentioned cmt, I was like, oh, yeah, we have to do it because people don't understand jazz.

[A]

There's so many levels and layers to you.

[B]

I know there that we barely.

[A]

I promise we wouldn't go too deep here, so.

[B]

I know, but there's so much more. Next week we'll talk more. We'll get a little deep one.

[A]

You know, I don't know if we're allowed to, but. Yeah. Yeah, because.

[B]

Oh, yeah. Yeah.

[A]

But anyways.

[B]

Yeah, but we'll have some fun.

[A]

This is fun.

[B]

Soon. Yeah.

[A]

I'm sad that it's ending.

[B]

I know. It's. It's okay. Hey, we'll come back on in the future. Maybe people want to hear more about dcc. Sending your questions. Is there something you guys want to know about DCC or CMT that I didn't touch on? Send it to Tom and I'll come back and we'll do another part two. Go deeper.

[A]

Good. You guys don't even know. This is just one layer. She has 50, 60 layers.

[B]

I know. It's crazy.

[A]

Yeah. Thank you for doing this.

[B]

Thank you for having me.

[A]

All right, bye. Love you guys.

[B]

Detoxification notification complete.

[A]

This September, CBS hits are streaming free on Pluto tv. I'm coming in for this month only you can watch full seasons of the CBS shows you love. From the courtroom drama of Matlock to the heroics of Fire Country. Go back to where it all began in NCIS origins, or watch the hilarious hauntings of ghosts, all for free. Full seasons of the CBS shows you you love this month only on Pluto tv. Stream now. Pay never. Hi, I'm Adam Rippon, and this is Intrusive Thoughts, the podcast where I finally.

[B]

Say the stuff out loud that's been.

[A]

Living rent free in my head for years. From dumb decisions to awkward moments I probably should have kept to myself. Nothing's off limits. Yes, I'm talking about the time I lost my phone mid flight and still haven't truly emotionally recovered from the that there might be too many sound effects. I've been told to chill. Will I unclear. But if you've ever laid awake at night cringing at something you said five years ago, congratulations. You found your people. Intrusive Thoughts with Adam Rippon is available now wherever you get your podcast.