PerformHappy with Rebecca Smith

On today's PerformHappy podcast episode, I'm thrilled to have Olympian Aagje Vanwalleghem join us. Not only is she an amazing athlete, but she's also a dedicated gymnastics mom and a passionate advocate for positive change in the sport of gymnastics. Our conversation left me feeling hopeful about the future of gymnastics, and I'm excited to share her insights with you. Aagje&ap...

On today's podcast, I'm thrilled to interview Dr. Ellen Reed, a former professional dancer, performance coach, and fellow recovering perfectionist. If you're struggling with perfectionism, this episode is a must-listen. Dr. Reed shares practical mental strategies to help you shift from perfectionism to optimism, making you happier and more successful in your sport. Get your notebook...

In the latest episode of the PerformHappy Podcast, I had the pleasure of interviewing UCLA and Canadian Elite Gymnast Ana Padarariu the 2018 World Championships silver medalist on balance beam. Ana has faced her fair share of injuries, and obstacles that have interrupted her Olympic dream. However, her story is incredibly inspiring. Despite the setbacks, Ana has always bounced back with a smile. H...

On today's episode of the PerformHappy Podcast, I have the pleasure of interviewing Brandi Smith, the founder of Perfect 10.0 Physical Therapy and Performance Training. Perfect 10.0 is an all-inclusive program dedicated to injury care and sport-specific strength, conditioning, and performance. It’s designed to not only return athletes to their sport but also enhance their overall performance....

I'm excited to share today's PerformHappy podcast episode with you. This week, I had the pleasure of interviewing the incredible Australian elite gymnast, Emma Nedov. Emma initially retired from gymnastics in 2020, transitioning into life after the sport. However, less than a year ago, she decided to make a comeback and set her sights on competing in the Paris Olympics. Our conversation...

Join us as we chat with Becky Beaulieu, Champion Culture Coach, former licensed psychologist, and NCAA head coach. Becky shares her unique insights on raising team standards without increasing pressure, fostering a joyful and successful team environment. With a wealth of experience coaching top teams and mentoring athletes, Becky’s practical tips and personal anecdotes are invaluable for any coach...

Today on PerformHappy, join me in an uplifting conversation with Sage Kellerman, a remarkable gymnast from Michigan State University. Beyond her perfect 10 on vault, Sage shares her journey of resilience and gratitude in the face of adversity, including the loss of her father. From navigating grief to battling impostor syndrome, Sage's story is one of courage and growth. Tune in for inspirati...

On today’s PerformHappy Podcast episode, I’m thrilled to welcome Professor Jaime Hamilton, a communication expert and fierce advocate for bullying awareness. Jaime founded The Comm Experts to bridge the gap between higher education and real-world contexts, focusing on bullying prevention and awareness. With over 20 years of teaching experience, she is passionate about enhancing communication in al...

Today's podcast features Kaitlyn Donovan, captain of the Illinois State gymnastics team. Kaitlyn shares her journey through injuries, the rigorous recruiting process, and how she keeps her passion for gymnastics alive. In this episode, Kaitlyn offers invaluable tips on recruiting and mental skills. Her insights, drawn from over 20 years of experience, are pure gold. Whether you're an asp...

Welcome to the latest episode of PerformHappy! Today, we're thrilled to bring you an enlightening conversation with neural performance coach Yuka Sugiura. Join us as we explore how Yuka's expertise can revolutionize your approach to performance. In this episode, Yuka shares her insights on leveraging the brain-body connection to optimize performance, alleviate pain, and increase flexibil...

In this week's episode of the PerformHappy podcast, I had the incredible opportunity to sit down with one of my favorite gymnastics experts, Dr Dave Tilley from Shift Movement Science. Our discussion centered around a topic close to the hearts of many parents and coaches: mental blocks in young athletes. We delved into the nuances of supporting young athletes who grapple with fear and mental...

In the newest episode of the PerformHappy Podcast, we sat down with Baz Collie, the senior coach of the British men's gymnastics national team, to uncover his unique coaching approach. Collie's philosophy revolves around building relationships and fostering belief in athletes at all levels. He stresses the importance of adapting to individual needs, creating an athlete-driven environment...

This week on the PerformHappy Podcast we chat with Karen Medellin, former elite gymnast and current coach and owner of 360 Elite Gymnastics. about setting kids up for collegiate success while ensuring their happiness and well-being. Karen shares insights from her journey and coaching philosophy, offering unique insights into managing competitive pressures and mental wellness. After a career-ending...

In today’s episode of the PerformHappy Podcast, we explore the essentials of injury prevention and strength building in young gymnasts with Dr. Jenny Borda, PT, DPT. She offers expert insights on strength training, flexibility, and technique to ensure athlete longevity. We also cover the importance of mental resilience, stress management, and open communication in supporting young athletes. Tune i...

I had the incredible opportunity to sit down with Audrey Davis, a standout senior from the championship-winning Oklahoma University gymnastics team. Discover how Audrey maintains peak performance under intense pressure and learn the secrets behind her consistency and joy in the sport. With two NCAA national titles under her belt and a third in sight, Audrey shares the highs and lows of her gymnast...

Today's episode is all about embracing change in the world of gymnastics, and I'm thrilled to introduce our guest, Jessica McDonough, better known as Coach Jessie from Olympus Gymnastic Club. A former Utah NCAA gymnast, Coach Jessie brings a fresh perspective to the sport. At Olympus, she's been instrumental in reshaping the gym culture, moving away from traditional coaching methods...

In this episode, we dive into the remarkable journey of Hailey D’Lynn Smith, who went from an energetic gymnastics beginner to a celebrated cheerleader, clinching the title of 2021 Texas Cheerleader of the Year. Starting gymnastics at two, Hailey transitioned to cheerleading despite injuries and no prior experience in the sport, showcasing her sheer determination and resilience. Hailey's stor...

In our latest episode of the PerformHappy podcast, we sit down with Shelby McNamara a former American rhythmic gymnast on the USA National Team and the founder of FlexAbilities, a flexibility training program for dancers, figure skaters, and gymnasts. Her flexibility training program combines flexibility, strength, and ballet technique. Shelby's story is one of resilience and determination, f...

Today’s episode I'm thrilled to share with you a captivating gymnastics coaching journey, featuring none other than the remarkable Cleo Washington. I Cleo shares her experiences and expertise gained over 20 years in the gymnastics coaching world, where she has coached World Champion Morgan Hurd, national team member Kaliya Lincoln, and the promising Olympic hopeful, Nola Matthews. But beyond...

In today's PerformHappy podcast, join me in a conversation with Sam Oldham, a key member of the 2012 bronze medal-winning Great Britain Men's Gymnastics Team. Now a gymnastics coach and a new dad, Sam opens up about the intense pressure of chasing an Olympic dream, discussing the weight of expectations, imposter syndrome, and the emotional challenges he faced. Reflecting on pivotal momen...

Today on the Perform Happy Podcast join me for an inspiring chat with Kirsten Medeiros, a former D1 gymnast, coach, and dedicated mom. She's the force behind a nonprofit ensuring every child, regardless of financial challenges, can pursue their sports dreams. Kirsten shares wisdom from her gymnastics journey, discussing discipline, empathy, and valuable life lessons. As a gymnastics mom, she...

In today's episode of the PerformHappy podcast, I am thrilled to bring you an exclusive interview with the remarkable Canadian National Team Coach, David Kikuchi. A two-time Olympian himself and the guiding force behind Ellie Black's journey to three Olympics, Kikuchi is widely recognized as the "Lord of the Rings" and "The King of Consistency." Join me as we delve in...

In today's PerformHappy Podcast episode, we take a different approach in anticipation of the upcoming release of my book, "Parenting Through Mental Blocks." Rather than hosting, I had the privilege of being the interviewee, engaging in a focused conversation with gymnastics coach Peterson Pierre on his podcast, Heated Conversations. With over a decade and a half of coaching experien...

Welcome back to another episode of PerformHappy! Today, I am thrilled to introduce you to an extraordinary individual whose journey embodies the essence of dreaming big and achieving even bigger. In this episode, I have the honor of sitting down with none other than Danusia Francis-Reed – an Olympian whose remarkable story will undoubtedly inspire you to reach for the stars. Danusia Francis-Reed&a...

In today’s new episode of the PerformHappy podcast, we'll be delving into the world of mental performance with none other than the incredible Dave Diggle. Dave, an international gymnast turned mental performance coach, specializes in working with high-stakes sports athletes, helping them conquer their fears and overcome mental blocks. In this episode, we're taking a deep dive into action...