CL: How did you first become interested in cheerleading, and how did your career begin?
KP: I grew up in a deeply creative home. Between my parents and siblings, we played six instruments, ten sports, two sang in chorus, two were on the academic team, one was an artist, and one a creative writer. My first love was dance, and even as a child I knew I wanted to find a way to dance forever. Professional cheerleading arrived when I was at a crossroad. Had I chosen the other path, I probably would not be writing this right now. In many ways, cheerleading, dancing, and performing professionally have always been part of who I am.
CL: When did you become a DCC, and what has been your favorite part of the experience?
KP: I became a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader at the end of summer 2021. My rookie year was filled with incredible firsts. I love performing alongside some of the most iconic singers and dancers of our generation, but I also love the unexpected discoveries along the way. My teammates have become my closest friends. These friendships mean more than words and will last a lifetime. I hope they last multiple lifetimes.
CL: Outside of training, what inspires you most?
KP: I grew up in what I call a modern Renaissance home, where curiosity and creativity were encouraged at every turn. I loved it then, and I am even more grateful for it now. I love to travel, read, play instruments, learn languages, paint, hike, design graphics, take photos, film, swim, free dive, skydive, scuba dive, and do anything spontaneous.
CL: Are there books, artworks, or albums that shape your creative process?
KP:
Book: The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
Album: AM by Arctic Monkeys
Artists: Yayoi Kusama, Hayao Miyazaki, Hokusai, Claude Monet
CL: If you could give your 12-year-old self a piece of advice, what would it be?
KP: Stop worrying about being perfect. Confidence is not something you are born with, it is something you build. Surround yourself with people who inspire you. And remember, you are not too much, you are just getting started.