Building Resilience with Professional Dancer Kristin Dodd
Ashley Mora: 0:18
The Pretty Happy Podcast is a weekly series covering the topics of developing a healthy mindset, gratitude, habits, boundaries, health, fitness, relationships, beauty, creativity and confidence. This podcast is for anyone desiring inspiration and direction. Your host Ashley Nicole, dishes out insight on personal growth and shares weekly inspiration on how to create a pretty happy life.
Hello, everyone and welcome to episode five of the pretty happy podcast. I'm so excited for this episode. I have my very first guest on today and let me just say she is amazing. Before we get into today's episode, I just want to say thank you all so much for the support you've shown the show. It means the world to me. Please continue to share, subscribe rate review all the things every time you do, it helps tremendously.
I'm also excited to say that I'm holding another great giveaway this week, I'm giving away a pair of dusty rose dream leggings from peachiwear they're a light pinkish color, they are cute, high quality workout leggings and I mean who doesn't love new workout clothes. new workout clothes are the best motivation sometimes, all you have to do to enter this week is RATE and REVIEW the pretty happy podcast. If you've already left a review, don't worry, you'll automatically be entered in this giveaway. The leggings are valued at $40 in for all male listeners, this would be a great gift for that special lady in your life. So you can enter this giveaway as well. You can check out Peachiwear.com they have the cutest workout sets. And if you find something you love, you can use code pretty happy for 15% off your order. And again, all you have to do to win a pair of leggings of your own is rate interview the pretty happy podcast this week. All right, let's get into today's episode.
On today's episode, I want to talk about building resilience and the importance of being someone who is resilient. Now, life isn't perfect for any of us. And I think it's safe to say that we're all going through things, especially this year, we're all going to experience twists and turns in life. It's just inevitable. But it's how we adapt in the face of adversity that sets us up to bring in success and happiness. I truly believe with every fiber of my soul that being resilient is the key to being successful. And I say this because I've experienced it firsthand. I've mentioned in previous episodes that it took me eight years to win Miss New Mexico, USA. It was not a walk in the park by any means. It was hard. It was heartbreaking at times. But that dream was planted in my heart for a reason. And I knew that it was something I could never give up on. And I'm so glad that I never gave up on that dream. In fact, I would go as far to say that I'm so thankful for my journey because even though it was hard, it taught me to be a person who is resilient. And I think that that's been one of the most valuable lessons of all.
My guest today is also someone who is resilient when it comes to achieving her dreams and goals and I am so excited to have her on today. She's the founder of Made to Move she graduated with a sign language linguistics degree and is an advocate for the deaf community. In 2019, she achieved her lifelong goal of becoming a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader. My guest today is the one and only Kristin Dodd. She is currently living out her dream right now. But what you might not know is that the first two times she tried out for DCC she didn't make the cut. In fact, she moved all the way out to Dallas, Texas to pursue this dream. She made it to finals. She made it to training camp. But like I mentioned, there were two years in a row that the door for that opportunity was closed for her. But this is the thing. She also knew that this dream was planted in her heart for a reason. And she never lost sight of that. She was resilient. And now she stands proudly on the AT&T Stadium field doing what she has always wanted to do. And that's cheer for the Dallas Cowboys. Okay, so without further ado, I would like to welcome Kristin Dodd.
Kristin Dodd: 4:44
Hello everybody! Thanks for having me, Ashley.
Ashley Mora: 4:46
I'm so happy to have you. Thank you so much for taking time out of your day to do my podcast and be my first guest. I'm so excited!
Kristin Dodd: 4:54
I'm so honored. Thanks for asking me.
Ashley Mora: 4:57
Oh my gosh. Well, I'm so excited for everyone to hear your story. And hear about your journey, I know that they're going to love you as much as I do. I just think that you are so inspiring and your story is so inspiring. I think that your message is going to really inspire other people. So I'm excited for everyone to hear from you today. So Kristin and I have actually known each other since elementary school, which is so funny and I used to pretend that she was my little sister! I would call her my little sister. Like the whole thing. And we have so much in common, like we both cheered at UNM. We have similair experinces when it comes to chasing our dreams. It's kind of crazy!
Kristin Dodd: 5:40
Yeah, it's been a fun journey together.
Ashley Mora: 5:41
It has been so it's been so fun for me to watch from afar, to see you accomplish your dreams and your goals and just go after everything that you want in life. It's just been incredible. You're such an incredible human. You've accomplished so much at such a young age. You're just amazing!
Kristin Dodd: 6:07
That means a lot coming from you. Because I feel the exact same way.
Ashley Mora: 6:12
Okay, so of course, I want to hear your story about becoming a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader. But before we get into that, I just want everyone to know a little bit about you, like, where you come from your family. Because I mean, I know those things, but not everyone's gonna know those things. So yeah, let's hear it.. where are you from? Tell us about your family.
Kristin Dodd: 6:30
So like she said, my name is Kristen Dodd. I was born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico. I went on to dance at the University of New Mexico. And then after that, I got my first job out of college, and relocated to Dallas, Texas, where I've been for the last three years. And yeah, just continue dancing. continued my work career and that's kind of what I've been up to since then.
Ashley Mora: 6:56
And how many brothers and sisters do you have?
Kristin Dodd: 6:59
So I have a brother, two sisters, and a stepbrother. So four younger siblings, I'm the oldest.
Ashley Mora: 7:05
Oh my gosh, and your brother just got married. That's crazy.
Kristin Dodd: 7:10
I cried like a baby the whole day. My brother just got married. He's in PA school now. And then I have a sister who Jalen who just started college. She's in her first semester of college. And then my sister and stepbrother are both in eighth grade at Hope, which is the same school
Ashley Mora: 7:25
it's a great school! me and you went to. My sibling have gone to sc
Kristin Dodd: 7:32
It was a good school.
Ashley Mora: 7:33
I had a good experience. Do you feel like you overall had a good experience at HOPE?
Kristin Dodd: 7:37
Yeah, definitely. I feel like I didn't appreciate it till High School. But for sure. I wouldn't change anything about my education. I'm very thankful for it.
Ashley Mora: 7:44
Yeah, I feel the same way. I think even in high school. I, for some reason, I thought I wanted like the public school experience. But now especially as an older adult, I am like so thankful that I went to hope.
Kristin Dodd: 7:57
I remember always wondering what public school is like, I pictured it like movies where people like, I don't know, have like performances during lunch and like, outside or like dance battles. I don't even know fights all the time. I had no idea what public school is like.
Ashley Mora: 8:13
I used to go to young life so I was friends with a lot of kids from La Cueva and what not. So I always thought it would be fun but I again, I would not change my experience for anything in the world. Um, okay, so now you live in Dallas. How long have you lived in Dallas?
Kristin Dodd: 8:31
I think it's been about three years now. More like three and a half, I guess. Yeah, I moved in 2017.
Ashley Mora: 8:39
Okay. Do you like Dallas?
Kristin Dodd: 8:41
I love Dallas. I think my favorite part is it feels kind of like the dance mecca of the world. There are so many professional teams here, professional dance companies. So in Albuquerque, I was kind of limited to any type of like adult dance classes, but here they have like multiple classes every night of the week. So it's been nice, like being surrounded by amazing dancers. I really challenged me. I also feel like there's so many opportunities here. Right? The job market is great. And there's so many places to go and visit and so many places to live. So it's been fun.
Ashley Mora: 9:16
Do you think that whenever the time comes that your time on DCC is over? Do you think that you'll stay in Dallas? Or do you think that you'll move somewhere else or move back to Albuquerque? Do you have any idea?
Kristin Dodd: 9:31
I've thought a lot about it. But Dallas really feels like home, okay, I feel like I of course, I miss my family. I miss New Mexican food and I miss the mountains like, those are my three things I missed the most. But I've really established a really good support system here. And I can really see myself like getting married and raising a family here. So I think the only reason I would move away from Dallas is if for some reason, a job took me or my future husband somewhere else. I'm definitely Yeah. I think leaving New Mexico
Ashley Mora: 9:58
Totally. Yeah, I m an, I think living in New Mex co like my whole life, and now being away from New Mexico, I j st appreciate itso much more w en I go home. I love the feeling of going home for the holidays, nd it's just nice. A nice place to go back makes me appreciate the culture of New Mexico a lot. Yes, absolutely.
Kristin Dodd: 10:24
I do miss those things. But you know, it's always gonna be there. I can always go visit. It's not going anywhere. That brings me a little comfort.
Ashley Mora: 10:33
Yeah. And do you usually go home for all the holidays?
Kristin Dodd: 10:36
Yeah, actually, this is the first year I'm not able to go home. It's gonna be your Christmas. So we have a football game 20th and the 27th. We also have really strict travel policies right now. So I will be going home right after season. I'm driving home and spending like a nice long week or two weeks there.
Ashley Mora: 10:56
Oh, good. Oh my gosh, that's crazy. I mean, I'm a flight attendant. So I've had to work Christmas before and it was definitely, an interesting experience. That's like the one holiday I feel like when you're not with your family, it's not fun.
Kristin Dodd: 11:11
Yeah, it's gonna be weird this year. But I'm just gonna pretend that Christmases is later. And just do like a Christmas redo
Ashley Mora: 11:33
Okay, so I definitely want to hear about your story and your journey to becoming a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader. I guess I just want to start at the beginning. So how old were you when you knew that you wanted to be a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader?
Kristin Dodd: 11:48
Yeah, this is such a funny question. Because in New Mexico, we don't have any pro teams. There's a lot of fans of the Dallas Cowboys of the Denver Broncos of the Raiders. And my family grew up loving the Dallas Cowboys. So I grew up watching cowboys games, you know, every Sunday or Monday. And I want to say I was probably five years old. The first time I was old enough to realize who the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders were. I started dancing when I was three. And it was like an instant passion. I'm pretty sure I came out of the womb dancing, because that's just who I am. I love performing.
Ashley Mora: 12:24
I definitely think you did.
Kristin Dodd: 12:29
I just I knew right away that, you know, they were so prestigious. They're so poised, well spoken, confident, talented women. And so it was always on my list of things that I wanted to go after. And it was one of my top dreams and so like just from a young age. Yeah. Something I always knew I wanted to do.
Ashley Mora: 12:51
Obviously, we cheered together in high school and then you danced at UNM? Did you go into those experiences knowing that was kind of training you for DCC, like did you always have that in the back of your mind that that was the ultimate goal.
Kristin Dodd: 13:05
I think when I was younger, I wasn't as strategic as I was a little bit older. In my mind, I just loved cheering dance, like I liked going to practice I loved being around my friends and performing. And I knew that if I wanted to cheer or dance at that level that I needed to be consistent with it. And I've always had a good work ethic. So it was never like, I have to work really hard to be able to do this. It was like I would have worked hard anyway, because I just wanted to be the best version of myself anytime I was doing something. It probably wasn't until college that when I was trying to decide if I wanted to cheer or dance at U and M, I realized that if I wanted to go on and dance professionally or cheer professionally that I needed to focus on dance at that point. So I think dancing and college vers cheering in college really helped me shape me as a dancer to be able to go on and do that, right.
Ashley Mora: 14:03
Yeah, I remember when you decided to do dance. I was like, Noooooo, but I get it. And also you are such a talented dancer, I feel like you couldn't necessarily showcase those skills in cheer. I know, there's like a little bit of dance in cheer, but it's totally different. So yeah, I mean, that totally makes sense. So then you graduate, any you decided immediately that you were going to start attempting to try out for DCC?
Kristin Dodd: 14:28
Yeah, so I graduated college in May of 2016. But I did not audition until that next year in 2017. And the reason is because auditions always fall around the time of college graduations. Okay. And so I wanted to be able to experience you know, getting my degree and walking across the stage like actually experienced college graduation, which I think was good because it gave me kind of like a year off where it wasn't on a team that I can just focus on training and getting in shape for auditions. And then I ended up Moving to Dallas. April of 2017. Right before auditions in May.
Ashley Mora: 15:10
Was it terrifying knowing that you were going to move out here and knowing that there was a chance you might not make it?
Kristin Dodd: 15:17
Honestly, No, I wasn't terrified. I was very confident. I watched the show with my mom, I saw the level of dance, I saw what was required as far as like speaking and being able to answer questions under pressure. And I felt really confident that I could do it one day. And so whether it was that first time, the second time, or whatever it was going to take, I was ready to not give up if it didn't work out the first time. So going into that first audition, it was kind of like a wake up call to kind of see the process and see how talented and beautiful all of the women going to auditions are. But I definitely wasn't. It wasn't like a one and done if it didn't work out, right. Give up type of thing.
Ashley Mora: 16:03
That's just such a huge bold move. And that took a lot of courage on your end like uprooting your whole life to go chase this dream. That's crazy. But you did a lot of research before going into it that first year of like, knowing where to go train here in Dallas and whatnot, I'm assuming?
Kristin Dodd: 16:21
yeah. So there's a lot of teams that kind of help you prepare for DCC. And we can talk about that in a second. But I ended up dancing for this team called foul Americans ice angels for two years. And that coach was a phenomenal coach who really helped prep me to get ready to go back into auditions for my third time. And so yeah, there was a lot of resources here and a lot of help to kind of know how the best way to prepare for auditions.
Ashley Mora: 16:49
okay. And so let's go back to to that first year. What do you remember from that first year of audtions?
Kristin Dodd: 16:59
Yeah. I I was surprised at how different the style was going from college dance to pro style dance.
Ashley Mora: 17:08
It was a big difference?
Kristin Dodd: 17:09
it was, it was very different college is definitely more competition focused and a lot more technique focused, and pro style. There's so much more that goes into it. Like you have to be really, really sharp while you're dancing. Yeah, there's a lot more that goes into you have to be really sharp when you're dancing. You have to be a really great ambassador, you have to be able to speak well. There's just a lot more a lot more components that I didn't realize going into my first audition you have to be like, very well rounded. It sounds like the entire package. Yes. Okay, very well rounded. And, you know, it's not necessarily who can do the most turns or the highest leaps or has the best technique. It's who is fun to watch and who looks good on camera and in photographs. Okay. Yeah, like you said, very well rounded. So my first year, I was like, Wow, there are so many amazing girls here. Most of them know each other. I don't know soul at audition. Oh my god. Um, luckily, I made friends on the first day, I made two friends. And one of them ended up making the team that year. So she ended up being a really great resource to help me. I also had no idea there was going to be a written test. I was like, wow, what am I getting myself into a written test?
Ashley Mora: 18:39
I had no idea. That is insane. And they didn't tell you that before? So you just kind of got surprised?
Kristin Dodd: 18:45
I didn't know. And I mean, I don't even think I would have known really what to study. But going into my second year, I knew more what to expect. And a lot of girls do have study guides that they create, or they create quizzes, okay. And they kind of share those with each other to help prepare, so I was more prepared the second time.
Ashley Mora: 19:18
So how many days were the audition your first year? How many weeks did audtions last?
Kristin Dodd: 19:23
So my first year I made it to finals, which was a two week process. So it was one weekend, it was prelims the first day, semi finals. The second day, that was a Saturday and Sunday. And then the following week, I came back for finals. And it was after finals that I got cut my first year when they chose who was going to training camp.
Ashley Mora: 19:45
Okay. And how did you find out that you weren't making the team? How did they announce it?
Kristin Dodd: 19:53
So for finals they announced so yeah, after the final round when they're announcing who goes Training Camp they call your name and your hometown. Okay. And honestly, it felt like I went through a really bad breakup. I was I was really confident going into that audition. And I was in Texas. I didn't have any friends here yet. All I had was my coworkers. And I think I just literally sat on the couch and watched movies and ate cookies. It was like going through a bad breakup. But I mean, it was it was good. It was an eye opening experience. It really helped push me to work harder after that.
Ashley Mora: 20:34
Do they give you any kind of feedback? like this is what you need to work on for next year?
Kristin Dodd: 20:38
No, no feedback.
Ashley Mora: 20:41
I was definitely interested to know what that moment was like for you. Because we kind of talked about this, you and I just earlier about how we've had similar experiences where we didn't get what we were hoping for the first couple of times around. And so, for me, for Miss New Mexico, USA, there were a couple times where I was in the top five, or I even place first runner up. And it was heartbreaking in those moments. but I'm so thankful that it happened. Because I feel like when I achieved that goal, I appreciated it so much more. And I also this episode is about resilience. And having those moments where the door is shut, I feel like it just teaches you so much about yourself, to be a person who takes that constructive criticism and turns it into a postive like Okay this next year, when I go into the tryout or when I compete, I'm gonna work on these things and become a better person. Like, I'm so thankful that happened. do you feel the same way?
Kristin Dodd: 21:48
I think anytime I've been cut from a team, it's this weird process of like, shock, and then anger, and then a lot of questioning everything, and then really sad and then healing. And then after the healing, it's okay, let me strap up my boots and put my gloves back on and figure out what I need to do to do better the next time. And yeah, it's in those moments of learning, that you grow as a person. You're right, you learn more about yourself. You relate better to people who have also gone through that, and you can help encourage people who are going through that. And I wish I could say it's easier the second time around, but its not.
Ashley Mora: 22:31
Okay so then you try out the next year?
Kristin Dodd: 22:33
Yes. So I made ice angels, that I spent a year dancing for the All Americans ice angels, which is a Semi Pro hockey teams dance team. And then I went into preparations for auditions the second year. And that was a lot of work.
Ashley Mora: 22:51
Yeah. I mean, I remember watching, you know, through Instagram and everything. And I mean, it was just incredible to see because I knew that you had tried out and that you didn't make it. And then I just felt like you were doing everything you possibly could like going to these dance classes, cheering for this different team. I just felt like you really took it so seriously. And you were not going to leave any page unturned. Like you're trying to do everything you possibly could.
Kristin Dodd: 23:22
I feel like when you want something so bad. You're just kind of trying to grasp onto anything that makes you feel like you're taking a little bit step closer, right. And for me, that was, you know, as many workouts as I could a week as many dance classes as I could a week and really focusing on you know what I'm eating, and also surrounding myself with people who were pushing me to get better. I think all of those things were really important.
Ashley Mora: 23:52
Definitely. So then you try out the second year...
Kristin Dodd: 23:55
Yes. So the second year audition, I went into it with a little bit of a different mindset, instead of being really confident. I knew what to expect. And I want to say I felt more humbled by it. So I remember sitting in the seats after finals, my second year, and this is where it was cut the year before and really just thinking like,
Ashley Mora: 24:19
Oh my gosh, I literally have goosebumps,
Kristin Dodd: 24:22
Yes, I remember like thinking talking to myself, I'm sitting in that chair thinking Lord, Your will be done. If it's meant to happen. It'll happen if it's not meant to happen, then I will accept that. But like just like kind of relinquishing all the control and taking the pressure off myself and saying like, it's on you, God, it's not it's on me. And so that was when I made it into training camp. It was so exciting.
Ashley Mora: 24:48
the best feeling ever. Because they they called your name and they called your state!!
Kristin Dodd: 24:53
YES we took a picture after all the girls going to training camp and I was like oh my god. got this in the bag like this is this is what I'm used to dance classes every night like, just like going through different styles of dance like performing. And I remember one of the DCC alumni walking up to take our picture and she'd said, You think up until this point was hard. You just wait. Just about to start. And I was like, oh, what does that mean? Oh my gosh. And so then training camp was crazy. Obviously, training camp was the hardest thing I've ever gone through. If mentally, yes, if you've ever watched the show, it is accurate.
Ashley Mora: 25:44
You should say the show real quick and plug it what channel because it's airing now!
Kristin Dodd: 25:50
yes. It's called DCC making the team and it's on CMT. Think the 15th season is airing now. They're in their 15th season.
Ashley Mora: 26:00
So the second year you're doing training camp.... How did you find out that you weren't making the team that year?
Kristin Dodd: 26:12
So training camp is anywhere from five to seven nights a week, From like five to sometimes 2am. It's, you know, sometimes from 5pm to 2am. And say I was
Ashley Mora: 26:27
so were you devastated when you found out? working a full time job at the same time at the same time right now. Okay, yes. And so I would work I would go to work from
Kristin Dodd: 26:37
Yes, it was a different kind of devastated eight to 430. I would leave go straight to practice. And then I though, than the first time around. It was, I was so would get done anytime between like 12 and 2am. Every single day. Oh, my, I don't think I've ever been so exhausted. I was an actual zombie. Oh, my goodness. And then they announced the team usually in mid August, right before the first preseason game. And I got cut the first week of August. So I made it through June, July. And then I got cut that first week of August, emotionally and physically exhausted at that point. That I feel like I, I started a little bit to give up on myself. Hmm. And so this is I, it's after this, that was really the turning point for me going into my third year. But I remember my last week in training camp, I was saying things like, well, we'll see if I'm around next week, like I had, I was I was already at the point where I was trying to emotionally protect myself that if it was coming, I was gonna be ready for it.
Ashley Mora: 28:06
Right. But I feel like in doing that, too, you have to be careful, because it's almost like you're speaking it into existence.
Kristin Dodd: 28:14
Yes. that was, it was a huge, it was a huge mistake. And I think I was sad for a whole month this time after that.
Ashley Mora: 28:26
So what was your WHY? Was it because you know, this was your dream? Or was there more to it than that, like, I know that you are an advocate for the deaf community and that you wanted to, incorporate that with this journey. But like, I mean, I just can't even imagine... I feel like at that moment, not that you're at rock bottom, but I feel like you feel like you're done. Yeah, you feel like you're at rock bottom right? And yeah, to be able to like not only pick yourself back up and turn it around, but to put yourself in that position again. There has to be something that's really pulling you
Kristin Dodd: 29:11
I went through those same phases. I said before, you know, sad, angry questioning. And I had to ask myself a serious question. Like, are you gonna Are you ready to give up on this dream? Like, you've wanted this for how long you've put in how many hours of work. blood, sweat, and tears, all the things? Are you ready to say I'm done and move on to something else? And the answer was no, I wasn't ready. Yeah, like you said, I got a little bit of a taste of, you know, how much of an influence those girls had not only on like dancers coming in, but on the community.
Ashley Mora: 29:52
Just people probably following on social media.
Kristin Dodd: 29:54
Yes. And I did. I was really passionate about being Christian and being a dancer I was really passionate about that being an advocate for the deaf community and like helping hearing people understand what Deaf culture was like. And I wanted to have that opportunity to make a bigger impact something that was greater than myself through the DCC organization.
Ashley Mora: 30:23
Oh, absolutely. And honestly, I feel like you are the perfect person to be in the situation that you are, I mean, you've always been like a very positive and happy person. And so I think that now that you're in this role, and you can shine your bright light is just incredible. So you so exciting, it's so exciting to see. So then you decide you're not going to give up any go in a third time. So what was your mindset going in for the third year?
Kristin Dodd: 30:51
So towards the end of training camp, my second year, I started reading self help books. And I started realizing that if I was, if I was gonna do it again, I needed to change the way I thought about myself internally.
Ashley Mora: 31:06
Were there any books specifically that you that stood out? Yeah, I mean, I'm sure you read so many. But if you had to give one specific book that was like life changing.
Kristin Dodd: 31:19
I'm trying to remember the title of this book. That's okay. I will look it up and I will let you know. Okay, but I okay. One person is Rachel Hollis. Okay, she had a podcast that I was listening to. And she prompted me to do this goal writing exercise. That was one of the first things that set me on the trajectory for that year to prep going into my third audition. And one of the things that she recommended was, sit down. Think about your in 10 years, who you want to be, what does that person look like? Get down to the absolute smallest details, okay, and write those dreams out as if they already happened. Oh, wow. And so I brought my notebook here with me, I know that you guys can't see it. But I'm looking at it right now. And I have 10 goals that I set for myself in 10 years, and I wrote them as if they already happened. I said, I will be a homeowner of a $200,000 house. I will be a business owner. I will be a published author. I will be a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader. And I wrote all of my goals down. And I actually went a step further. Because I said I don't think this is enough. I recorded a voice memo on my phone of me saying all of these out loud. Oh my which it's so funny that you said speak that into existence. Because I I did. I said that I wasn't sure I was going to make the team. And if I didn't believe in myself, why would I expect them to believe in me. And so I said this year, I'm not going to have a doubt in the world that I'm going to make this team every day. And every day when I was driving to work, I played this weird voice memo of myself speaking and like it would say, I will be a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader, and I would repeat it, I will be a Dallas
Ashley Mora: 33:12
I literally have tears in my eyes.
Kristin Dodd: 33:14
But it's crazy, y'all. It's crazy how when you say something out loud, your your body starts to believe it. And it's like, you have to convince yourself which is the hardest part. Right? And I was, as auditions got closer, I had already trained my mind to think that this was a reality so much to the fact that I interviewed for the job that I'm in now. And I told him Well, I'm going to be a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader next year. So I so I need you to be flexible with my schedule. And I like thinking back. I'm like, wow, I was actually like a psychopath for saying that. My boss was probably like is this girl delusional? but I think he saw the confidence in me. And he like saw something in me and he ended up hiring me. Oh and he has been flexible with schedule!
Ashley Mora: 34:11
So you went in with the mindset that it was going to happen? I think when you're on a journey like this, and I
Kristin Dodd: 34:14
I did. actually had talked about this, I think it was my last episode how when I was training for Miss New Mexico, you know, obviously it was a long time. But towards the end, I started to do a lot of visualizations of like, literally visualizing like them crowning me like Miss New Mexico or competing at Miss USA before it happened because I had to have that in my head that it was going going to happen like I had to have that to come back to... so I mean, it's funny because I think people kind of think like oh, self care, like self love self, whatever is kind of like woohoo stuff, you know, but I think it's so important when you're following your dreams to get yourself in that mindset. like you have to be in that mindset Or else, it's really easy to forget why you started in those moments when you are defeated, which you probably will be. When you're on this successful journey, if you don't fail, you're not experiencing it the right way. I think you have to fail to be successful. But yeah, it's just crazy. You have you have to have that mindset. And I did the same thing. Like there were moments even in my, that third year of training camp where it felt like, you know, I started to doubt myself, and I had to, you know, jump out of it. Again, I would I would do same thing I would visualize when we were doing thunderstruck, on the field. During training camp before I made the team, I would picture myself in the uniform with the Stansfield, as if I were actually at a game, because I had to convince myself that it was back to that, yes, it's gonna happen, it's going to happen. And also, one of the DCC alumni said something once that really stuck with me, she said, anytime you have a thought of self doubt, instantly replaced that with the opposite. Hmm. And an example of that is if I would be, you know, getting ready to perform a dance for the judges. And I would say like, like, what if I forget the choreography? Or I would instantly be like, why would I forget the choreography? I've been dancing for, you know, 20 years? Why would I forget the choreography. And I had to like, really quickly replace those, like, self doubt thoughts with affirmations, to get myself back into that place mentally in order to perform at the best of my ability. Right? Yeah. Wow. And so then, okay, so you go in your third year, and you have this different mindset? Was it still as difficult throughout the whole process this third year? Or did you feel like it was a little bit better because a now you've experienced it twice. And B, I feel like you've had time to really work on the difficult areas that were previously hard for you. I think it was better this third time around. It's partly Yes, because I knew a lot of the dances already. And I knew the girls on the team wasn't as intimidated by them. But also coming in with this attitude of like, I know who I am, I'm confident in myself, I'm gonna make this team. I think the coaches respected me more, and they didn't look for me to mess up. They didn't look for me not to have the style because I was confident myself. I knew what I was doing. And I was there to prove that. And so I think that really helped me do
Ashley Mora: 37:33
Oh, definitely. Yeah. And confidence is a funny thing. I think. You can't fake confidence. You have to actually have it. And people can really tell when they're around a confident person.. but you can't be confident and cocky. they are different. I think that when you are truly like a confident human being you just walk into any room and you're just such a bright light. And you definitely have that thing. Okay, so then you go through it your third year, and then you end up finding out that you make the team I did I How did what was that moment? Did they call your name?
Kristin Dodd: 38:10
So it's kind of a thing, a special thing on the show each year, Kelly's announces the team in a different way every year. Okay, so my year when I made the team, she called two girls in to the office. And when you get called into the office, it's either you're getting feedback, or you're getting cut. So anytime you're called in the office, it's terrifying.
Ashley Mora: 38:32
I can't even imagine what that's like.
Kristin Dodd: 38:34
Yes. And usually there's 36 girls on the team. And at this point, we're down to 37. So okay, we think there's going to be one more cut, and they call two girls into the office, and we're not sure what's going on to you and another girl, no, not me. Okay, two other girls. And everybody's kind of looking around like are they going to cut to or they're going to take 35 What's going on? And they Kelly says, Look around the field right now. And all of us kind of like start looking around. We turn completely around and see those two girls running towards us. And we realize in that moment that they're taking 37 and we literally just rushed at them and all just like started crying and hugging. And Kelly said Congratulations. You are a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader. And
Ashley Mora: 39:24
so then that was a moment that you knew that it was official
Kristin Dodd: 39:27
It was the most surreal moment you could possibly imagine
Ashley Mora: 39:30
so oyu remember what was going through your head at that moment specifically just I can't even imagine like years and years of hard work and dealing with like the heartbreak of not making it before and then having that moment where your dream came to life like was probably the most incredible feeling
Kristin Dodd: 39:48
I cried a lot. I Yes, I was. It took me at least like a month and a half to feel like it was actual reality. And even when I was dancing at my first couple games, I was like pinching myself. Like, a slap in my face and saying like, Wait, is this actually real life? Did I actually make this team like, I can't believe this is happening.
Ashley Mora: 40:08
I can't even imagine what the first game was like. So all of my family, we are huge cowboys fans like, like you every Sunday, Monday. My dad is like, crazy, in a sense, so we've been to games at at&t Stadium and that stadium is just electric. Like the fans are just incredible. I mean, the music and also, I think because DCC is such a prestigious team like the thunder song, like we've all seen the girls dance to that song specifically so knowing that you are on the field doing it, like living this dream, being in a stadium field hearing like the roar of the crowd, seeing the football players come out on the field, what was your first game like? was it just the most insane experience? did you cry?
Kristin Dodd: 40:59
It still gives me chills to think about my first game I think it will for the rest of my life. But so the first thing that you do is you line up in this tunnel, and I'm in my formation getting ready to take the field for thunderstruck, which is the first dance we do during pregame and Kelly walked past me and she touched my arm and she said Good luck. And that was like a really special moment that I will always remember. I got chills. There's people in the stands everywhere. There's like some peeking over the sides. Like oh my god, those are the Dallas Cowboys cheerleader. In the morning pictures Yes, I'm in uniform. And then over the announcement like the speakers, the announcer goes and introducing the often imitated never equal and he like goes into this long feel. Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders, and then the music starts Oh, it goes on. And it's like this drumbeat that we take the field to and it was just the most insane surreal moment just so many lights really loud music, like insane amount of fans, like 100,000 fans, I've never danced in front of this many people before. Gosh, during the game, I kept tearing up Oh, I was just so overwhelmed with joy and like excitement.
Ashley Mora: 42:17
I mean your dream came to life in that moment.
Kristin Dodd: 42:20
Yes, it made every second of all of that hard work and being devastated and everything worth it. Oh my 100% in that moment.
Ashley Mora: 42:30
Okay, so who was the first person you call them told you made the team? I was gonna ask you that.
Kristin Dodd: 42:36
The first person I called was my boyfriend Tyler, don't tell my mom!
Ashley Mora: 42:41
No way. Oh my god,
Kristin Dodd: 42:43
I actually facetimed him. And if you hear his side of the story, it's really funny because normally practice gets out no later than 10 o'clock. And I think I was calling him at nine o clock. So he thought he thought I got cut that night.
Ashley Mora: 42:55
Oh my god.
Kristin Dodd: 42:56
he's like, getting everything ready to like what to do if I'm like upset and he has to come pick me up and I I call I FaceTime him and I was holding my uniform. And I was like I made it! and he was like, I'm ordering pizza. I was like, Yes, I want to go and eat a large pizza.
Ashley Mora: 43:14
Oh my gosh, and he's been so supportive the entire way? He is the absolute World's Best Dance boyfriend. The most supportive, like I could not ask for a better person to be with through all of this. And were you guys dating when you didn't make the team?
Kristin Dodd: 43:32
Yes We were dating whole way through. I told him I was going to be a Dallas Cowboy cheerleader. So he was in for the whole ride.
Ashley Mora: 43:41
So I'm sure that was a I can't even imagine what it was like for him because he saw you go through like the heart ache and you know the troubles of not making it and then getting the phone call that you made it I'm sure it was an incredible moment for him to where your whole family.
Kristin Dodd: 43:55
Yes.
Ashley Mora: 43:56
Were your parents crying when you told them?
Kristin Dodd: 43:59
Yes. Oh my gosh, it's been such an emotional roller coaster for everybody. And even all our New Mexico has just been so supportive and proud of Yes, the accomplishment it's been really really special. But my family especially because they saw me go through yet the emotional roller coaster of it. I remember. We went to a football game after I was cut from training camp. That first season was that hard. My dad and my stepmom I like ran up to the cheerleaders and hugged them all my friends that I you know, dance with all summer. that weren't my teammates because I didn't make the team and my dad and stepmom both started crying because they just like saw, like this moment where like, I should be there. Right? I should have the uniform I should be dancing and they knew how hard I worked for it. So once I made the team everybody was ecstatic.
Ashley Mora: 44:51
have they come to games?
Kristin Dodd: 44:53
during my first season they came to more games and this year, no because of the pandemic. It's really fun having them there.
Ashley Mora: 45:04
what has what have things been like now with COVID?
Kristin Dodd: 45:08
It's different this year. We're not allowed on the field.
Ashley Mora: 45:11
Oh, you're not allowed on the field? No. So we are dancing on these giant decks on this each side of the end zone. Did they put those up specifically for you guys? Or were they already there?
Kristin Dodd: 45:22
They were already.
Ashley Mora: 45:23
I've seen those before. They have usually the Salvation Army on them?
Kristin Dodd: 45:26
I actually stand on the Salvation Army. we dance on those, which it's kind of fun, because we're closer to the fans. But I do miss dancing on the field, you know, being closer to the action. So that's different. And then we have less appearances and stuff just because you know, they're very careful about us being around people. Right.
Ashley Mora: 45:45
And you're gettingCOVID tested it all the time?
Kristin Dodd: 45:48
during training camp. We were tested every other day. But now we just have like, strict protocols. But we aren't regularly tested. Okay. Have you had COVID? No, no. I am one of the lucky ones that have not so trying to be careful. Stay healthy.
Ashley Mora: 46:06
So we're gonna just going to shift directions here and ask some fun questions, not necessarily about DCC... who are the three people that you think have influenced you the most in your life?
Kristin Dodd: 46:20
I think the three people who have influenced me the most are my mom. she is amazing. She's just like, this total. baddie. She is Yeah, she is a defense attorney. She's super independent work so hard. I think she really taught me work ethic and independence, which was very needed. Yes, you know, up and move my life to Texas. Absolutely. There was one girl on the team, who's retired now from DCC who really influenced me. And it was my first year in training camp, I was kind of at this breaking point where I was exhausted, I was worried about how the show would portray me as a person because you don't know that because you have no idea like, are they gonna make me look like I don't know what I'm doing. I'm a dancer. Like, you know, you have all these real human emotions that you're going through. And she said to me, she said, Kristen, if there is one little girl watching the show, and she says, look, Mom, Christine, no sign language just like me. Wouldn't that make all of this worth it? And she put things into perspective so fast that like, this is so much bigger than me, like, I might be feeling like, really overwhelmed and like stress, and you know, all these human emotions, but there are so many people that are being influenced and you know, will go after their dreams because they see, you know, me achieve a dream or, you know, relate to me because I know signing order because I love deaf people or because I speak Spanish or because I'm from New Mexico, like there's so many things that you can find relatable in that process. And that was a really big influence on me. Absolutely. And then I would say the third person was my dance coach Stephanie to be Aussie, she was my coach on the ice angels, okay. She just truly loves her athletes, like she just loves her dancers cares about your whole well being not just you as a performer. And she helped me find like that, um, of like power and precision and performance that I needed to make DCC and she just like, never had a doubt in me that I that I could do it and just constantly encouraged me and helped me push me to be the best person I could. And so I will always be thankful for her as a coach.
Ashley Mora: 48:47
Okay. And so I'm curious, how did you get into becoming so passionate about the deaf community? What what sparked that for you? Well, I guess tell people about your degree and like what you've done, I guess, because we haven't even touched on that.
Kristin Dodd: 49:03
yeah. So it's kind of an interesting journey that I've been on. So I went on a missions trip right after high school to Ecuador, which is, if you know anything about hope, Christian, they do it every year, they sponsor 12 children. And so I really wanted to go on this trip to meet these kids that are school sponsored. And I also spoke Spanish, I felt like I could really connect with the people. It was really a life changing experience my first missions trip. And so I wanted to learn another language that I thought could be used in multiple countries like Spanish. So I go to college. I didn't want to be a sign language interpreter. So the only other way to become fluent in American Sign Language was through linguistics. And so I took my first ASL class and I learned that there were over 400 sign languages, but it isn't a universal language, which is a very big misconception and it was during that time class that I just fell in love with the culture and the people and the language. I've said before, I feel like I'm kind of dancing with my fingers when I'm signing. It's just a beautiful language.
Ashley Mora: 50:13
that's really cute.
Kristin Dodd: 50:15
The culture is just really, really cool. And so I knew I wanted to go into ministry, I wanted to work in Bible translation. And so I had gone on a field trip to this place called Faith comes by hearing, which is an Albuquerque. And so I used to keep close tabs to see like if there was any volunteer opportunities. And so my senior year of high school, they started a deaf ministry that ended up becoming a separate nonprofit. And I started volunteering my senior year. And so then after college, I got hired there. And so I was working for this Deaf Bible translation organization called Deaf Bible Society. And that's who I relocated to Dallas with. Okay. And so that's what you're doing now. So no, now I work. So I moved from death Bible Society to Seed Company, okay, because they were birthing this AI language translation technology. And so I, I could use my linguistics degree. Okay, and help. Deaf translation. So I now work for an AI technology company called Avada, which is a Greek word that means work, worship and service. Oh my gosh, so it is a it's a kingdom business. But okay, it is it is for profit and the revenue goes back towards Bible translation. Okay. That's what I'm doing now, as I'm using my linguistics degree for technology, language translation.
Ashley Mora: 51:38
You are seriously such an incredible person. You're an incredible person. You're so impressive like you the fact that you are doing all these things. You're a very intelligent human being your beautiful inside and now like, you are the full package girlfriend.
Kristin Dodd: 51:52
So are you! I think I think it was totally intentional on God's part when he was like, little seven year old Ashley and five year old Kristin.. be friends!
Ashley Mora: 52:07
And so your DCC full time and work full time?
Kristin Dodd: 52:11
Yes.
Ashley Mora: 52:11
That's crazy. That's gotta be a lot.
Kristin Dodd: 52:13
It is. It is a lot. It's, um, it's definitely very time consuming, but also very rewarding. And I know that it's just a short time in my life, that I'll be able to do that. Right.
Ashley Mora: 52:25
You want to take full advantage?
Kristin Dodd: 52:26
I do. I do.
Ashley Mora: 52:27
I totally understand that. Okay, so I mean, obviously you cheer for DCC, you're a very beautiful person. Do you feel like there is any one particular thing that people Often misunderstand about you?
Kristin Dodd: 52:46
Yes. I think working in ministry, and being a professional dancer has had its challenges, just because people in ministry sometimes will say, Well, why do you wear those outfits? And, you know, I don't know, I guess, assume that it can sometimes be for the wrong intentions or the wrong reasons or things like that. And so that was something that I really struggled with at first, because I didn't understand why people couldn't just like, see my heart see my intention, right. Also, a lot of the time, they don't see the impact that cheerleaders have, because of their sphere of influence. And so I actually started this company in this blog called me to move. And my intention behind it is that I wanted to change some of those misconceptions that people were having. And I also wanted to create a safe space for other professional dancers, or just dancers or cheerleaders in general, to kind of talk about those same struggles that they've faced where, you know, I would say, yeah, you know, maybe my outfit is a little bit revealing. But let's talk about the meaning behind that outfit. That iconic DCC uniform is world renowned, it's recognized everywhere. And if I didn't earn that uniform, and I wouldn't have the opportunity to impact so many people through the show through community events through social media. Yeah, all of those things. And so it's kind of just like, showing people a different perspective, a different side of things and kind of helping change those misconceptions.
Ashley Mora: 54:20
Right. I mean, I think that you're doing an excellent job at that. So that's made to move where can people find the blog?
Kristin Dodd: 54:26
Yeah, so it's madetomove.live and we're on Instagram, Facebook, and then of course the website. I do like sparkles and pink.
Ashley Mora: 54:44
Yes, same girlfriend! you know all about the pink. So I don't know if people know this specifically, but I did all the branding for pretty happy podcast in pink because I want to miss New Mexico and a pink dress So ever since then. That's so cool. Yeah, I mean, I tried to put a lot of meaning and intention behind everything that I did. But yeah, I did that for a reason. Just because that was obviously a huge moment for me. And ever since then pink has been like, not necessarily like a lucky color, but it's been like my color, you know?
Kristin Dodd: 55:15
When you find something that works Hold on to it!man.
Ashley Mora: 55:20
Okay, so other than trying out for DCC and not making it What do you think, has been one of the biggest challenges in your life? And how did you overcome that?
Kristin Dodd: 55:33
I think that in this isn't like, a one time pinpointed event. So I think the hardest thing to overcome is believing in yourself enough to not give up despite your circumstances. And it's not, you know, only with DCC, but with you know, if you're afraid to change a job, because you're, you're worried about, you know, if you leave this job, and you're not happy, like going after another job, what if it doesn't work out? Or, you know, I really want to go after the stream, but I'm afraid to move or right. I'm really afraid to get out of this relationship. Because you know, what, if I don't find somebody else, it's those moments where you feel like you just want to give up. And I think everyone can relate to this in 2020, because I definitely felt this way when my whole world was turned upside down, having to stay home for three months. Mm hmm. It's, it's like kind of like what you said, going back to your why, but also doing what you need to for yourself to find joy and find happiness in those moments. Right. So for me that this year, it's been, you know, yeah, I have to look a certain way I have to be, you know, this skinny or this, like, my hair has to be the song or whatever it is going into auditions. I had to tell myself like, I'm not exercising, because I need to live up to this standard. I'm exercising because, you know, I want to have a healthy body and a healthy mind. And I want to find joy in those things.
Ashley Mora: 57:02
And so I think that's been the hardest thing to overcome, especially this year is in those moments of like shifting your mindset. And I feel like your vocabulary not being like, I have to go work out but being like, I have the ability to go work out and I love doing that. Because moving feels good for my body. Yes, yeah.
Kristin Dodd: 57:21
or if I'm like, I need to go to dance class, because I have to, you know, stay in shape or practice like this or that, to like, stay on top of my game. It's okay sometimes to be like, if I'm forcing myself to go to dance class, then I'm probably not going to get anything out of it. Because right on joying it so I'm going to go to dance class, if I am excited to dance today, right? Just kind of like picking and choosing those battles. Choosing to find those little moments of joy over forcing yourself to do things that you don't want to just because you feel like you have to. Absolutely, absolutely.
Ashley Mora: 57:57
So yeah, then that makes me think too, because obviously quarantine has been an interesting situation for all of us. What do you think that you've learned over the last couple of months, like eight months, I guess we've been now dealing with this pandemic. But I know for me specifically. I feel like I started to realize like what was important and what wasn't, I think that there was focus on other things out at the time, pre pandemic, I thought were really important. And now I'm realizing that they're not. So my priorities have totally shifted for sure. That's been one, you know, one of many things, I think that I've learned from this quarantine, but what's one thing that you've learned?
Kristin Dodd: 58:35
I have learned to listen to myself, which is a weird thing to think. But when you're super busy, and you are on a schedule all the time and life is gogogo you kind of just like get into this rhythm, where you're doing what you're supposed to be you're checking off the list, but you're like on autopilot. Yeah, I don't have time to just like, kind of like intro SPECT and like, think about different things. And this, this kind of like forced rest that we all had to go through, right? really caused me to like think, Oh, I feel this way. Like, why am I feeling this way? Like, what I've even noticed, I felt this way, if I was doing what I normally was, I'm really busy all the time, and really learning to listen to like when my body needs rest or like paying attention and having that self awareness like you need. I think that's what's been the most eye opening to me this year.
Ashley Mora: 59:30
And I'm sure that's been a great lesson, right? Because I think when you're in those moments, and you're listening to yourself, like in order for you to like give love and to other people and like be the best version of yourself, like you have to do the things you need to do to take care of yourself. Yes. Okay. So I know you've like mentioned a few times, like working out and staying in shape. So what do you do to stay in shape like what are your favorite workouts?
Kristin Dodd: 59:56
So I have realized over the last couple years that Kind of diversifying my workout regimen has been the best for me and has helped me stay on track the most. So, I do take a lot of bar and Pilates classes. Just because I like going to hot bar hot Pilates I sweat a lot, which feels great but it also kind of helps stretch out my muscles while I'm exercising. But if I do it all the time I get bored and then I don't want to go so I'll do you know elliptical or bike in my apartment. And then sometimes I'll go to a hit workout or just like changing things up has been the best for me because then I don't get bored, right, I think is the biggest struggle. Totally. Yeah, no, I totally get that. And then what is what are your eating habits? Like? Like, is there a specific diet that you usually try to follow? Oh, yeah. So when I first got serious about my eating habits, I was doing all the things counting macros and meal prepping. Which which did work for a while, but the longer you're trying to do it is like an actual self sustaining lifestyle change. There, I realized there has to be balanced. So once you kind of learn what's healthy, what's what's not like, what's good for your body? what fuels your body? What doesn't, it does make it a little easier to make decisions. But generally speaking, in the morning, I like to have like a breakfast bowl. So I'll have like eggs, maybe like potatoes or sweet potatoes and then sausage with green chili? Yeah, of course. And so I usually if I am going to have carbs, it's usually in the morning. Okay.
Ashley Mora: 1:01:40
So you still count macros but now you hav a better understanding of how it works?
Kristin Dodd: 1:01:49
So kind of like once you get into a rhythm you kind of gray, right? Yeah, the macro. So then for lunch. I like to do salads a lot for lunch, or a protein and a veggie. And then I'll usually have like a snack in the afternoon, which might be like Greek yogurt and some nuts, or a protein bar, or sometimes a protein shake, or a piece of fruit. But I tried to have some kind of like a little bit of a car before workout so that I have energy, okay. And then for dinner, I try and stick to just like protein and then veggies. And then if it is a car was usually healthy carb, like brown rice or something, okay. But I used to be afraid of carbs and like, I can't eat carbs. Yeah. And wait, but then I would be exhausted. Right. So it's really about finding that balance. Like if I do want to have a cookie right, then, you know, I might just like, not have potatoes that morning for breakfast or something. I kind of like, compliment each other. Yeah. So yeah,
Ashley Mora: 1:02:43
I think balance is just the most important part. Yeah. And figuring out I think like what works for each person? Yeah, I can't do the no carbs thing either. I've tried it before. And I'm just like, I'm not a nice human when I'm not eating carbs. I mean, I think that people are kind of shifting away from that now. Because it is more just about the food that you're feeding your body. Yeah,
Kristin Dodd: 1:03:04
you know, but yeah, like fresh vegetables. Yeah, like, Yeah, yes. making good choices, and you do feel better. Like you have more energy and Oh, totally, you do notice a big difference, which kind of helps you want to keep doing it. Yes. Yeah. You're a great example of eating clean. I was telling Ashley earlier that I look up recipes on her blog.
Ashley Mora: 1:03:24
I need to start posting more recipes for sure. But you know what, I haven't really been cooking that much right now. Yeah, I've been ordering my meals. Because it just takes you know, then you have to go grocery shopping. I know. I love time. I love to cook. It's just so time consuming. So it's just, it's just easier to do it that way. And I feel like I stay on top of my diet a little bit more because of the convenience of like, hangry Yeah. Okay, so if you could go back in time, and tell your 18 year old self, anything, what do you think that you would tell her?
Kristin Dodd: 1:03:57
Wow, well, 18 year old Kristin did a lot of dumb things
Ashley Mora: 1:04:03
We all did a lot of dumb things.
Kristin Dodd: 1:04:07
I would tell myself that that confidence and that fire that I had inside of me to not let anybody put that out. Because there were moments where I was, you know, so down on myself and ready to give up or having negative thoughts and like back then it was like, not a care in the world. I literally truly thought whatever I wanted to do, I could achieve and like there was not a limit in the world, which I guess I eventually came back to like that confidence and believing in myself, but it would be more so just to remind you, like remind myself, don't let anybody tell you that you can't do something. Don't let yourself tell yourself that you can't do something. And just really keep on having that positive mindset throughout whatever your circumstance is so important.
Ashley Mora: 1:04:57
Yeah. So important. And I think it's just a part of the learning. experience. But yeah, that message is so important. Okay, so then I want to end our little interview on. I'm a big believer in gratitude. I think that it's so powerful. Yeah, it's been a huge thing in my life, especially right now. I mean, I've always been like very appreciative of like everything, but actually writing down my gratitudes I just feel like shift my mindset, especially in the beginning of the day. They're giving me like small things, you know, like little dumb things, but it just puts me in a different place. So what are three things that you are thankful for today?
Kristin Dodd: 1:05:34
I am so thankful that I am healthy. That's definitely something not to take for granted. Yeah, especially right now. I'm thankful for my family. Even though we don't live in the same state. We, you know, are good about talking and checking in on each other. Yeah. That's really important to me, and I'm really thankful for my gosh, I feel like 500 things I could say, right?
Ashley Mora: 1:05:58
Oh my gosh, okay, we'll say five!
Kristin Dodd: 1:06:00
I'm thankful for Tyler my boyfriend because he is just literally my rock through whatever I'm going through.
Ashley Mora: 1:06:08
Wait actually didn't ask you how did you guys met?
Kristin Dodd: 1:06:12
So I worked for this company, UCA stands for universal cheerleading Association. And I got sent to Memphis, which is the headquarters to do this staff training. And Tyler was actually there. He worked for UCA two. Okay, so I met him there. And I was kind of on and off with another guy at the time. So me and Tyler definitely had like that instant connection we like, see each other and it's just like the chemistry. Yeah. But like I said, I was still on and off with this other guy. So it was probably six months later that things officially ended and Tyler and I kind of got back in touch. And everything was just Yeah, the biggest blessing. And so we did long distance for two years. And then he moved to Dallas after he graduated. And we've been together for three and a half years. Three and a half years is a long time to be in a relationship. It is do you think that you guys are gonna get married? Yes.
Ashley Mora: 1:07:08
you do?! Like are you waiting for anybody listen to this podcast.. hint hint
Kristin Dodd: 1:07:13
cough cough.. Tyler. I'm just kidding.
Unknown: 1:07:17
Yeah, it's certainly something we talk about. I we see each other like being in each other's lives forever. Yeah, just, you can see the timing of how everything works
Ashley Mora: 1:07:26
Yeah, you can see how happy you are like in the photos and when you guys are together and stuff like you can tell that you guys are in a good place. And again, I think than just speaking from personal experience when you are in a position like when you're trying out for DCC and you are in DCC to have someone who is just so supportive like that. That's rare. Honestly, it's rare to find someone who is going to remove their ego from the situation and just be supportive of their significant significant other.
Kristin Dodd: 1:07:55
Yeah, and even like dating a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader. I can't imagine it's like for him. Like you have to really be super secure in yourself. But she is and I'm so thankful for that. We have like the best trust.
Ashley Mora: 1:08:07
Yeah. Do people slide into your dms?
Kristin Dodd: 1:08:10
You know, not as much as you would think. Okay, it's mostly like little girls who were like I love You're so awesome.
Ashley Mora: 1:08:28
oh my gosh, that's so cute. Okay, do you have any other things that you're thankful for?
Kristin Dodd: 1:08:33
I have two more. Okay, I'm thankful for my job. I work for an awesome company. My leadership in my company is a great example. So I'm thankful for that.
Ashley Mora: 1:08:42
And I think right now, too. I've written that down specifically so many times, like, so many people have lost their jobs yet this year. So it's definitely something to be thankful for. That's such a good one.
Kristin Dodd: 1:08:53
Yes. And then I'm thankful, honestly, for just like, the passions that God has put in my heart and just like the willingness to go after them.
Ashley Mora: 1:09:04
that's a great list! Well, I'm so thankful that you join me today I it's gonna be hard for me to wait until Wednesday to post this episode. I am just so excited and I know without a doubt that people will be inspired! But I just think the message of following your dreams and even when you are told no so many times, but being like, no, this was planted in my heart and I'm still going to go after that. It's such a special message Everybody has dreams and goals. And so giving them the courage and being an example of being told no but persevering and still going after your dream is huge. And your story without a doubt like sharing your message will change people's lives for sure
Kristin Dodd: 1:09:54
yours to Ashley and I'm so thankful that you asked you to be here
Ashley Mora: 1:09:57
You are my first guest! I'm so honored. I'm so thankful I literally can't think of a better person. I'm so thankful for you being here.
Kristin Dodd: 1:10:06
And I know that you're inspiring people through this podcast. So if you have not left any comments do it now!
Ashley Mora: 1:10:18
Okay. Well, thank you all so much for listening today. Kristin, thank you so much. we'll have to do another episode again.
Kristin Dodd: 1:10:26
I love you.
Ashley Mora: 1:10:27
love you too girl!!
Wow. I don't know about you guys, but I am just totally blown away by her. She is the epitome of a full package. She's talented, she's intelligent, she's humble. She's hard working. She's ambitious. And most importantly, she has a servant's heart. Kristen is just truly an incredible human being and I'm honored to call her a friend. If you want to follow Kristen Dodd on social media, her Instagram handle is @kdodd_10 You can also watch her on DCC making the team which is now airing on CMT.
And before we go, I want to end today's episode with a powerful quote that really resonates with me and I hope that it does with you too.
This quote is by Nikki Banas and I literally tear up whenever I read it.
You never know when you are minutes away from a breakthrough. You never know when you are one project away from the promotion. You never know when you are one hour of studying away from passing the exam. You never know when you are one song away from landing the record deal. That is why you keep going. That is why you keep trying. That is why when you fall down, you stand back up because the truth is, too many people quit before giving themselves a real chance they stopped because it isn't happening fast enough or how they thought it would work out. My beautiful friend. Remember that all good things take time. Be patient and your time will come to.
If you loved today's episode, please don't forget to subscribe rate review share. You can follow up pretty happy podcast across all social networks. I can't wait to talk to you guys again soon.
Until next time.
xoxo