Anything But Routine

Cindy sits down with Shawn Zachery, Founder/Executive Director of the National HBCU Auxiliary and Dance Directors' Association to spotlight the program and their mission to uplift dancers and coaches through mentorship, education, and community. Founded in 2022, the association brings together HBCU, high school, and community teams for training, development, and professional opportunities. From national conferences to partnerships with industry leaders, discover how they're shaping the future of HBCU-style performance.Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & Anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

This episode takes place at last year's Summer Camp and Coaches Conference, where Cindy sits down with fellow coaches to dive into the topic of competitive success.Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & Anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Life has been go, go, go for Cindy. From the busyness of everyday life to what's next, here's a quick catch-up from behind the scenes at Just For Kix.Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & Anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Cindy sits down with Susan Averna, a PhD developmental psychologist, college professor, and head cheer coach at Trinity College.  For 30 years she has taught, counseled, mentored, and coached teens and young adults, and provided consultation to parents, educators, and athletic coaches.  Her book FABRIC: Be the Coach and Build the Culture Every Athlete Needs is a practical resource for coaches to develop strong leadership skills and build a culture of growth, optimal performance, and well-being.Link to the book: FABRICWelcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & Anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Cindy and Ali dive into real questions from the Dance Coaches & Teachers Unite community — Tune in for honest advice, real stories, and relatable moments from the dance world.Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & Anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Cindy opens up about coaching today's athlete — how they're different, what they need, and how coaches can rise to the occasion. Listen in as Cindy gives coaches practical advice on how to reach, teach, and lead this generation of athletes with impact.Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & Anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Cindy sits down with Bailey Mutschler, Head Coach of the Hudson High School Dance Team. Now in her fifth year of coaching, Bailey has helped guide her team to an incredible five state championships over the last four seasons. Tune in as Bailey shares her keys to success, what it takes to build a winning team, stay motivated, and keep the momentum going!Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & Anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Get ready to dive into all things Duluth dance! Cindy and Ali are joined by Alli Mackner— coach of the University of Minnesota Duluth dance team, Director of the Duluth Just For Kix studio, and fall coach for Duluth East High School.Listen in as they discuss how the UMD team has grown over the years and explore what dance life looks like across the Duluth community.Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & Anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Cindy and Ali hang out with Danielle Schneider, a longtime board member with the Dance Drill Coaches Association (DDCA) of Oregon, to chat about all the ins and outs of dance in Oregon. With 20 years of coaching and 23 years of judging under her belt, Danielle has seen it all! From team life to competitions and everything in between, she shares her story and some fun behind-the-scenes moments you won't want to miss!Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & Anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Cindy breaks down the ReliaQuest Bowl Game Tour, covering the highlights, logistics, and everything in between!Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & Anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Today's podcast is on cleaning routines. And I think that that's probably been one of my keys to success is that I'm good at cleaning routines. So I will just share some successes that I've had. And some things that I weighed from the get go did when I was very young and didn't even know what I was doing.Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & Anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Cindy sits down with Olivia, Head Coach at Rosemount High School, and Colleen, Head Coach at Aitkin High School, to discuss the Parent Booster Club—its role, impact, and why it's essential for dance programs.Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & Anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Cindy and Ali catch up with Amanda Gaines, the University of Minnesota Dance Team Coach, to talk their UDA Nationals success—winning Pom Gold, Jazz Silver, and being selected to the U.S. National Team!Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & Anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

This week's episode features Macy Clough, who happens to be Cindy's Great Niece, Ali's 2nd cousin, and an alumnus of the College Dance Team at the University of Mankato, MN.Macy Clough trained at Brainerd Just For Kix for 16 years. She was a four-year member of the Brainerd Warrior Dance Team, The Kixters, and was recognized as All-Conference, All-State, and All-Tournament. Macy also was a four year member of the Minnesota State University-Mankato Dance Team, the team most recently won a Double National Championship in Open Jazz and Pom in 2024. The team has won five National Championships and four runner-ups in her time on the team. An informal chat on dancing in college.  Enjoy!!Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & Anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Ali takes you behind the scenes of the Brainerd Warrior Dance Team, "The Kixters," sharing the vision behind their 2024-25 Jazz dance. Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & Anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Cindy and Ali sit down with special guest Christina George! As the Head Coach of the Loyola University Maryland Dance Team, Christina has spent the past 10 seasons shaping the program into a powerhouse, leading her team to historic success at NDA College Nationals. From her days as a competitive dancer and East Carolina University captain to her work in sports marketing, coaching, and dance advocacy, Christina has done it all! Tune in as we chat about her coaching journey and what it takes to build a championship-caliber team—plus, some behind-the-scenes stories you won't want to miss!Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & Anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Cindy and Ali chat with Melissa McGhee, the Head Coach of The Ohio State University Dance Team, leading them to 13 national titles, including the 2024 UDA D1A Jazz Championship. With 16 years of studio training, she now consults, judges top competitions, and speaks at major dance conferences. Named NDCA College Coach of the Year in 2020, she also founded Lineage Dance Co. in Upper Arlington, OH, blending her expertise with her passion for coaching and education. Listen in as Melissa discusses her journey, coaching strategies, industry insights, and what it takes to build a winning dance program!Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & Anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Cindy and Ali chat with veteran head coaches Taylor Varghese of Eastview and Kelly McCarney of Sartell about the delicate balancing act of coaching, marriage, and parenthood. From managing demanding schedules to finding time for family, they share their insights, strategies, and personal experiences on navigating it all while staying passionate about their teams and loved ones.Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & Anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Cindy and Ali chat with Dr. Jim Ward, Vice President of the Wisconsin Association of Cheer and Pom Coaches (WACPC), to explore the vibrant dance scene in Wisconsin.Tune in to discover the unique aspects of Wisconsin dance and how it stands out from other states!Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Cindy sits down with Angela Ottmann, Colorado Dance Choreographer/Instructor at Starstruck Academy of Dance, Spirit Consultant for dance teams across the nation, Director/President at Colorado Spirit Coaches Association, Owner/President at AO Entertainment, and so much more!Listen in as Angela shares her unique Colorado perspective, where the dance culture brings its own style, energy, and opportunities.Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Cindy and Ali sit down with Liz Smith, Coach Liaison for the Oklahoma State Dance Team Directors Association, High School Coach, Competition Director, Choreographer and State Champ. Listen in as Diane shares her unique Oklahoma perspective, where the dance culture brings its own style, energy, and opportunities.Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

The dance season can be hard to keep it fun. This podcast addresses some tactics on how to keep your season from getting too serious! Keep your dance season FUN!!!Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button. 

Cindy sits down with Diane Hasenbank Brooks, the Director and Founder of Dance at Hagerty High School in Oviedo, Florida, and Head Coach of the Unleashed Dance Team. Diane, was a 2023 National Dance Coaches Association High School Coach of the Year nominee a University dance professor. She joins Cindy to discuss the role of dance in building leadership, life skills, and success in their students—proving that they're teaching much more than just dance.Listen in as Diane shares her unique Florida perspective, where the dance culture brings its own style, energy, and opportunities.Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Teri is a Hall of Fame dance coach and judge with over 30 years of experience across all levels, including middle school, high school, college, and all-star teams. Formerly the coach of the Eastern Washington Elite Dance Team, she now serves as Executive Director of the National Dance Coaches Association and works as a national consultant and speaker.Join us for an inspiring conversation as Teri shares her incredible journey, expert advice, and passion for shaping the next generation of dancers.Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Join the Clough family as they share the story behind Just For Kix, the dance empire Cindy and Steve Clough started over 40 years ago. Now joined by their kids Joel, Jerad, and Ali, the Cloughs dive into what it was like growing up with the business, the challenges and triumphs of building it, and the unique dynamic of working together as a family. From behind-the-scenes stories to heartfelt reflections, this podcast is a celebration of family, passion, and the legacy of a shared dream. Tune in to hear how the Cloughs continue to grow, inspire, and dance their way through life—together.Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

As the founder and CEO of Acrobatic Arts Inc, Mandy Yip responsible for managing the staff and overseeing the delivery of all training programs, as well as the Acrobatic Arts syllabus, which is currently used in over 7500 dance studios across 47 countries. With over 400,000 dancers participating in Acrobatic Arts classes on a weekly basis, Mandy's work has had a significant impact on the world of AcroDance. Mandy's dedication to learning is evident in her many certifications, which include contortion, hand balancing, inclusive learning, tap, jazz, gymnastics, and safe coaching, among others. She currently sits on the advisory board for IACDP an organization that shares her mission of keeping kids safe in dance. Mandy is also highly sought after as a workshop instructor, having taught thousands of dance teachers and provided expert classes around the world. Her passion, technique, and in-depth practical knowledge make her classes engaging and informative, and have earned her a reputation as one of the industry's leading experts.Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Kevin Mathis, owner and artistic director of M2 Dance Center since 2001, has dedicated his career to inspiring dancers of all levels while achieving extraordinary success as a coach, including 21 National Championships with Lake Central High School and over 30 national titles with Indiana Danzforce Allstars.Listen in as Kevin joins Cindy to dive into all things dance, sharing insights, stories, and the strategies behind their success in their respective careers.Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Cindy talks with Jenny Raiche, the director of Miss Dance Team Minnesota, to discuss the event's impact on dancer growth and development. Tune in to learn more about this inspiring competition!Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Cindy catches up with Jacinda Miller for an inspiring chat on coaching, where they dive into knowing your worth, letting core values lead your business growth, and creating a culture people can't resist!Jacinda Miller has been passionately involved in the world of baton twirling for over 40 years, beginning her journey as a competitive twirler and later serving as the Twirling Team Captain at the University of Arizona. Jacinda has been coaching since the age of 16, and her twirling program, Dance-Twirl Minnesota, based in Eagan, MN, has produced numerous Minnesota State and National Champions. In addition to coaching, Jacinda owns Baton Twirling Unlimited, a company that manufactures high-quality twirling batons and provides comprehensive support to coaches of all experience levels. Jacinda holds an M.S. in Organization and Management and a B.S. in Family Studies from the University of Arizona, blending her business acumen with her passion for coaching to support the next generation of twirling champions.Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Cindy and Ali chat about getting back into the rhythm of dance season after week one, highlighting new initiatives they're exploring and what they're looking forward to as the season unfolds.Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Cindy and Ali sit down with Maya Simmering, SDSU Dance Team Coach and former UMD dancer, to explore the college dance journey and what it takes to succeed in the field.Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Cindy Clough, Julie Davidge, and Ali Geraets hold a leadership meeting with Seniors to discuss the importance of the role they hold on their team and what tactics they can use to be the best at it.Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Guest Brittany Rehling, Coach at Roseville High School and Director at Oakdale JFK, shares her strategies for making a small program feel big. She and Cindy dive into tips and ideas to elevate your season while focusing on being a transformational coach.Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Join Cindy and Charlie (MSHSL, Former Brainerd AD, Former Football Coach, Speaker, and a Parent) as they dive into valuable insights designed to guide parents and coaches through the ups and downs of high school sports.Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers everything & anything dance. https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine 

Cindy and her guests, Antonia Mihalovich Des Moines Roosevelt and Jana Morrissey Adele, talk about coaching and navigating a positive approach with parents as a coach.Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Three seasoned coaches share insight after coaching a combined total of 84 years. Learn ideas to help your child thrive and hints to help your coach stay in the game.Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Cindy talks with Victoria McNamara, Owner and Director of Victoria Dance Productions, about juggling the responsibilities of running a dance studio while also coaching a high school dance team.Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Ali and Sharaia talk with directors to discuss SDS (solo performances, duets, and small group routines) in preparation for the upcoming dance season.Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Stephanie Simon from Smithville, Missouri, discusses NFHS concerns with Cindy, particularly regarding dance and cheer being grouped under the same umbrella.Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Cindy speaks with Rick Rassier, who will be at FOUR Just For Kix camps this summer.  He will work with the entire camp with games challenging them to TAKE IT TO THE NEXT LEVEL.Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Cindy talks with Colleen Christenson, a seasoned judge with 19 years of experience in Minnesota dance competitions. Colleen offers insights into the judging process and discusses effective strategies for leveraging your score sheet to stand out and earn that extra point. Additionally, she sheds light on the specific criteria judges consider across various categories, guiding performers on how to shine in each.Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Cindy catches up with two senior captains from the Brainerd Kixter dance team, fresh off their dazzling state championship victory. They share the thrill and challenges of leading their team and what it really means to be captains on the dance floor! Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers everything & anything dance. https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine 

Cindy, Ali, and Sharaia discuss improving competitive techniques through focused practice, mental preparation, and tactical adjustments. They emphasize how these strategies will significantly enhance your performance and scores in competitions.Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Just for Kix Dance Camp; it's a vibrant community where passion meets purpose, and every step tells a story. Cindy, Ali, and Sharaia discuss what YOU can experience this summer by attending camp through dance, discovery, and delight!

This podcast is on learning HOW hard to push your elite level while keeping it fun. Featuring Ben and Tiffany from Urban Dance Productions in Andover, MN, along with Tessa from Inspire Dance and Tumbling in Ohio.Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Cindy and Ali catch up with Amanda Gaines, the Dance Team Coach at the University of Minnesota, following the team's viral sensation after their performance at the College Dance Team National Championships.Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Cindy talks about the ins and outs of tryouts and tryout scoresheets.Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Cindy and Ali engage in a thoughtful discussion about game-changing strategies for motivating athletes and how motivation can be a key factor in transforming an athlete's performance from good to great.Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Cindy and Ali discuss the art and challenges of coaching leadership.Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Cindy and Ali discuss the importance of behavior management and ways to enact it.Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine

Cindy and Amanda discuss ways to prepare for an active shooter situation.Welcome to Anything But Routine Presented by Just For Kix. This Podcast covers Everything & anything dance.  Stay up to date with the podcast by hitting the subscribe button.https://www.justforkix.com/anythingbutroutine