Full Out: Leadership lessons from America's favourite coach

by Monica Aldama

From the breakout star of Netflix's Cheer, a motivational and inspiring guide to becoming a champion in all areas of life.In Full Out, "the Bill Belichick of cheerleading" (The Cut), Coach Monica Aldama shares how she built one of the most successful and beloved cheerleading programs in the country. Her uncompromising brand of discipline and consistency goes far beyond the mat--showing how the principles of building a winning team apply to personal goals, the corporate world, parenting, and all aspects of life. There's a lot of talk these days about shortcuts and life hacks, but what really counts is commitment and integrity, helping your friends, and improving with your teammates. Coach Monica shares deeply personal stories of triumph and tragedy from divorce and remarriage to her husband, her challenges as a young mother working more than full time, and her strenuous weeks on Dancing with the Stars. She shares surprising behind-the-scenes moments from the Cheer docuseries, and insights gleaned from more than two decades of pushing students to succeed. A true force and inspiration who has captured hearts around the world, Coach Monica will show you how to take command of your talent, make the most of your potential, and find your drive to win.

Genres: Nonfiction, Audiobook, Memoir, Self Help, Biography, Sports, Personal Growth

252 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2022

Reviews

[Jayne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cheers to Monica Aldama for sharing her life story and equipping readers with the know-how needed to succeed with integrity and purpose.

Before listening to this book, I had never heard of Monica Aldama or watched Netflix's "Cheer". Nor was I aware that community colleges had cheerleading programs.

After listening to this book, it was easy to understand why Monica Aldama is referred to as the "America's Favorite Coach" and why Netflix selected her to appear in the "Cheer" docuseries.

Monica's cheerleading program has been called a "dynasty" after winning 14 NCA National Championships in their division. She is articulate, inspirational, resilient, empathetic, and empowering.

This book really shines in the area of practical wisdom and I enjoyed listening to Monica's personal anecdotes, gems of wisdom, and positive messaging.

I was particularly impressed with Monica's strong work ethic and her dedication to her family, students, and team.

I always love it when a nonfiction author reads their own book and Monica Aldama did a superb job with the narration.

4.5 stars.

[Mackenzie Sutherland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Monica's dedication to her family, her athletes, her career and herself is so relatable as well as inspiring. The chapters are short and snappy and there are some many quotes that I've written down to remember for myself. I can't wait to finish it! High recommend regardless of it you watched her show or are into cheerleading. There are tons of life lessons that are applicable to anyone!

[Erica Chaillot · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars. I love Monica, cheer, Navarro, and all the cheerleaders. I was hoping the book centered more around the formation of the squad, try-outs, members, practices, etc. While in the book, this was more of a backseat to an inspirational story of how to succeed in life. I still recommend the book, but would have loved the cheerleading aspect more.

[Kelly]

Surprisingly more enjoyable than I anticipated. Her ghostwriter/collaborator is credited in the acknowledgements, and I suspect Monica really did offer a lot of what's here. A little bit of a pep talk book with less behind-the-scenes of Cheer or cheerleading than many fans might expect, but it's there.

[Meghann Stelzer · Rating 2 out of 5]

Loved the show, but this didn’t offer as much “behind the scenes” as I had hoped. Inspirational speech-type writing, very general, and at times unorganized.

[Heather Goldsberry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a good book! I loved the story. I love celebrity memoirs 😍

[Brooke · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5
I’m obsessed with Netflix’s “Cheer”. This really is nothing new if you’ve watched the show, but I loved it just the same. Monica seems so down to earth and has what I see as only good values; which in turn she gives to each of her cheerleaders. I also enjoyed learning and understanding more about her time on Dancing With the Stars.

[Emilee (emileereadsbooks) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Simon Audio for the gifted audiobook.

Written with short and succinct chapters this book is part self help book and part memoir as Monica shares her wisdom and journey to becoming known as "America's Favorite Coach". If you have watched the show Cheer then you will read this and feel that you are getting the real authentic Monica. She doesn't shy away from her opinions and beliefs, but also isn't going to force you to agree with her. She is blunt, but loves the students she coaches fiercely. She does all she can not just to make them successful in their sport, but to help prepare them to be successful adults. You get some behind the scenes material on the show and all that has happened in the wake of it's hit status. And you get to really know Monica's heart for her team. A fully enjoyable read.

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Monica has a nact for connecting her life stories to the principals she's trying to present, in other words she practices what she preaches. It's nice to hear her be so honest about how hard her time on Dancing With the Stars was and how you really have to choose positivity and that communication is key no matter what situation you're in. She doesn't gloss over her own imperfections and makes you feel normal for struggling. This book is a nice reminder that hard work is never in vain and good people are still out their making a difference everyday.

[Lily · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you love Cheer, you’ll love this book! I’ve never done cheerleading, despite always wanting to, but the lessons in this book apply to all aspects of life. Through every chapter, each organized around a different principle, Monica makes me want to push myself to be the best I can be. You can definitely hear Monica’s voice as you’re reading it. I’d recommend to all fans of the show!

[Mariah Roze · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finished watching Season 2 of Cheer today and this book!

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Monica has a nact for connecting her life stories to the principals she's trying to present, in other words she practices what she preaches. It's nice to hear her be so honest about how hard her time on Dancing With the Stars was and how you really have to choose positivity. She emphasizes that communication is key no matter what situation you're in. She doesn't gloss over her own imperfections and makes you feel normal for struggling. This book is a nice reminder that hard work is never in vain and good people are still out their making a difference everyday.

[Alyssa Gonzales · Rating 3 out of 5]

Coach Monica!! Did I buy this because I love Cheer from Netflix? Yes I did. But is it a typical self help book. Yes. However with a dash of insider info about cheer and Monica’s real life experience putting the things into action. 3.5

[Caroline Surber · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved every second of reading this book and the way that Monica Aldama wrote it was amazing! I learned so much more about the show (which I have watched both seasons of) and about everyone involved. I have been cheering for five, going on six, years and I love how much Monica strives to make cheerleading not, "It's just cheerleading", but, "Wow! That's cheerleading!". After finishing, I immediately went and watched all of her DWTS performances and loved every single dance.

Personally, this book deserved five stars because of the honesty and truth that she shows. The book was also split into chapters in the best way with each chapter giving a new piece of advice. I loved this book and love Monica and the whole Navarro Cheer Squad!

[Stephanie VanAlmen · Rating 3 out of 5]

I bought this book cause one of my girls’ cheer coaches told me it was so good. I think it was very encouraging and a good little behind the scenes look at what you may have seen in the show.

Cheer is a whole different world. It is really hard to explain. I have two girls who have done elite all star cheer for 7yrs now and it really is a whole lifestyle. I know people have watched the Netflix show and have a better idea, but it’s hard to understand until you are actually on that mat.

I have met a few of the Navaro cheerleaders at cheer events and they were all so sweet. That alone is impressive to me. They hugged my girls and told them they were pretty and gave them encouragement even though my girls were just completely star struck. None of them acted like a “cheer-lebrity”. They have had so much success but you can tell they love the sport more than the success.

My favorite part of the book was that it really isn’t an overnight success. It is hours, years! The hard work, the tears, the injuries, the drama, the soreness, the whole lifestyle is so worth it. It may seem like sparkles, pretty faces, and 2:30 of flips, choreography, and stunts. But it’s SO much more.

[Erin Nielsen · Rating 3 out of 5]

(3.5)
As a former gymnast, power tumbler and cheerleader -- I loved the show "Cheer" and resonated with her leadership style. Book was entertaining and had some good gems sprinkled throughout but was just ok for the flow and style of writing. "Whatever field you work, the same principles should apply to your team - trust, hard work, discipline (expectations), community and consistency".

[Allison · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.75 stars.
Some interesting behind-the-scenes bits,
as I loved Netflix’s Cheer when it first premiered. That being said—nothing too earth-shattering in this one.

[Nicole Bieri · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love Monica’s dedication to those she loves and her heart to be the best. There were a lot of great takeaways and it was great to hear some behind the scenes of a show I love. Hoping there’s more Cheer in the future!

[Emma Griffeth · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars
this book was a super quick read and was a great mix of memoir and self help. happy i picked it up and would recommend

[Bo Geraerts · Rating 3 out of 5]

A bit superficial and all over the place

[Eddy Grant · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is exactly what you expect it to be.

[Stacy Horne · Rating 3 out of 5]

Of course I wanted to read it because I watch the Netflix series "Cheer" and I love Monica as a person and respect what she does.

I don't know if my hopes were too high prior to starting this book. Although I love her and I love the show....I regretfully have to say I didn't LOVE the book. Please note I didn't hate it either...it was just ok. I had trouble keeping my interest. I kept reading other things instead and coming back to this book. It was a typical "motivational" book. So if that's what you are looking for you will love it.

In full disclosure...I received this book from Goodreads Giveaways and Gallery Books for my honest opinion on the book.

[Sarah Paulovics · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love coach Monica so I had to listen to her read her writing. I loved hearing her heart come through what she shared in the book. She genuinely cares for others and it is very obvious. I liked getting to know her better and hearing glimpses of behind the scenes of Cheer. I enjoyed it!

[John Beyer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Inspirational - positive self mat talk is important.

[Dominique · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars.

For someone that loves all things “Cheer” (on Netflix, for those of you living under a rock), I was excited to hear a little bit more from Monica herself. She had a lot of good stories, but I just wanted a little more of those and a bit more of her backstory and less of her “life advice.” But then again, she is a coach, so I feel like giving advice is just like second nature to her. Regardless, I still enjoyed her book - especially some of the behind-the-scenes stuff! A quick, easy read.

[Anne Barker]

When the Netflix show, 𝘊𝘩𝘦𝘦𝘳 came out, I will admit, I binged it. I loved everything about it, especially @monicaaldama. You could see how much the kids loved her and respected her and vise versa. ⁣

When I found out she came out with a book, you betcha I was going to pick it up. I am so glad I postponed in getting it because I was able to get it for a great deal on @audible. ⁣
⁣
She is so real and raw and being able to hear her read it, I felt like she was a friend talking to me about everything she’s been through. It’s so amazing how she has had such a huge impact on the kids she’s coached. ⁣
⁣

[Jess · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 stars? The book was just kind of generic motivational stuff with only a small look into Monica’s life.

[Victoria · Rating 3 out of 5]

Like many others I was enthralled by the Netflix Documentary “Cheer”. I binge watched all the episodes in one day. While I was definitely impressed by the athleticism of those men and women performing on the mat, I was captivated by their leader, Monica Aldama.

Aldama’s leadership of the team and her story made me want to know everything about her and her leadership journey.

I am a bit of a leadership junkie. I love books, articles, podcasts, anything where you can learn to become a better leader for your team. So when I found out she had written a book, I wanted to be first in line for it. I am super thankfully to Gallery books for giving me a early release copy of this book.

I really enjoyed reading further on Aldama’s leadership theories. I found myself writing down her quotes on almost all the pages where she talks leadership. I liked how she used her experience in athletic leadership but connected it to how other professionals could relate it in their field. I also am in a position where I teach leadership to others and feel this book would be great for those who want a story along with the theory.

The only part I struggled with in reading this book, is I felt like it is two books in one and it didn’t always sync up right for me. I feel like it is written with a lot of great leadership theory and connections to many fields, but because it is also marketed towards those who watched the show or watched Aldama on Dancing with the Stars there were lots of stories added in that were marketed towards the people looking for behind the scenes Hollywood. I felt the chapters jumped back and forth a bit abruptly, and the later chapters focused heavily on behind the scenes content.

All in all I am happy to have read further on Aldama’s leadership background, skills, and techniques, and I hope one day she will write another book that may fully focus on the leadership topic.

This book was provided to me for free for my honest feedback and review, all opinions expressed are my own.

[Ryo · Rating 2 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book for free in a Goodreads giveaway.

I have never seen Cheer before, so I really didn't know anything about Monica Aldama, or even about cheerleading really, before reading this. This book is full of general life advice like "lead by example" or "find the right teammates," and the author relates these life lessons to cheerleading or other specific events in her life. The advice is rather generic overall, and nothing really stood out to me as being some new, inspirational nugget that stuck with me, though I did appreciate how the author related a lot of it to cheerleading and the intricacies involved in a sport I knew next to nothing about. The author did make me realize how involved cheerleading can be, and the amount of hard work required to make the cheer routines look effortless. The organization of the book also left me wanting. The author sprinkles bits of her personal life, like growing up, her marriage and subsequent divorce and remarriage to her husband, and giving birth to her children, among other things, as they relate to the various bits of advice she gives out, but they're scattered and out of order because they're picked to fit whatever advice a chapter talks about, rather than telling a coherent story overall. There's a glimpse at what this book could have been when she talks about her experience on Dancing with the Stars in some of the later chapters. Those chapters flowed much better for me, as she talks about her experience on the show chronologically, rather than talk about some life lesson and then pick moments from the show out of order. She does connect those experiences to life advice, but she picks bits of advice out of the general narrative of her time on the show, rather than picking parts of her life to fit into chapters of advice. I kept wanting a memoir with bits of life advice sprinkled throughout, rather than a bunch of life advice with bits of memoir sprinkled throughout, which is what this book is.

[RebeccaReviewedIt · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book lived up to all the hype I had built up around it in my mind. One thing to note is that the subtitle is “Lessons in Life and Leadership from America’s Favorite Coach.” This isn’t a memoir; it’s more like an awesome motivational speech with lots of personal stories dropped throughout. I felt like as I was reading it, I could hear Monica’s voice in my mind. I think I also loved this book even more because I can relate to her in so many ways. First of all, I was a cheerleader through middle and high school. We did lots of fun stunts and tumbling (though let’s be real, I was never good enough for college level cheer), and I understand the frustration with people not understanding how hard we work. I’m of the opinion that maybe cheerleading isn’t a “sport,” but we are absolutely athletes. Our bodies take a beating from all the tumbling and jumping and stunting! I still feel badly about giving a handful of girls black eyes and bruises during stunts! She’s also from Alabama (and loves Bama football) – me too. She was a Zeta Tau Alpha – ZLAM! “To whom much is given, much will be required” is a phrase that Monica thinks about often, and it’s one that I also try to put into practice in my own life. I think we’d be great friends if we were to ever cross paths. I would have loved to cheer for her! This is a no-brainer. Go get this book, especially for any cheerleader in your life, but also for anyone who needs some inspiration to work harder! Alright, I’ll stop fan girling now. Thank you so much to Goodreads and Monica Aldama for my copy! This one publishes on January 4, so you have plenty of time to preorder all your copies!
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