PerformHappy with Rebecca Smith

In today's episode, I'm thrilled to bring you an insightful conversation with the exceptionally talented Canadian elite gymnast and national team member, Denelle Pedrick. This episode is packed with valuable lessons from both the highs and lows of her gymnastics journey. In the competitive world of gymnastics, setbacks are inevitable, but Denelle's perspective on how to turn these c...

Today, we've got a special treat for you as we dive into the world of passion, determination, and resilience with none other than elite gymnast Sophia Campana. In this episode, Sophia shares incredible stories from her journey as she pursued her dream of becoming an Italian national team member, all while being a girl from Colorado. It's a tale of overcoming odds and proving that dreams...

If you're intrigued by Coach Vahid and Coach John-Mark's coaching journey and the secrets behind gymnastics success, don't miss my conversation with the incredible mentor Coach Jackie (Jaclyn Riemer), which you can find here: https://youtu.be/K-4X7JLVs2U?si=iDHr4lyVRYgGe82N Welcome back to another exciting episode of PerformHappy Podcast! Today, I'm thrilled to bring you insigh...

In today's podcast episode, we're diving deep into the secrets of making this your best competition season ever. I’m thrilled to share some insights that can truly elevate your game and mindset. What Sets Elite Athletes Apart? Ever wondered what separates elite athletes from Olympic medalists? I'll be unraveling the key elements that make the difference and sharing how you can incor...

In today's episode, we are thrilled to have a very special guest, Briley Casanova, a former two-time USA Gymnastics National Team member and the esteemed team captain of the University of Michigan Gymnastics. Briley's unique journey, from elite gymnast to mental coach, has equipped her with unparalleled insights into the challenges young athletes face. One of Briley's specialties li...

Welcome to a special episode of the PerformHappy Podcast! Today, I'm joined by the incredible Jacqueline Raymer, aka Gym Coach Jackie. Jaclyn is not only a coach with a fantastic sense of humor but also an inspiring adult gymnast reshaping the world of gymnastics. We dive into her journey, exploring her transition from coaching to re-entering competitive gymnastics as an adult. Our conversati...

In today's episode, we're honored to host Lisa Mitzel, a former elite gymnast, four-time NCAA champion, and esteemed mental performance coach. Our conversation revolves around the critical theme of ensuring the safety of young gymnasts in this demanding sport, coupled with a deep dive into the complexities of mental performance. Lisa's journey in gymnastics, from her elite athlete d...

Welcome to another empowering episode of the PerformHappy Podcast! Today, I have the privilege of sitting down with the remarkable Tammy Barlette, a retired fighter pilot whose journey takes us from the skies to the gymnastics arena. Tammy not only brings her extensive experience as a fighter pilot but also her role as a former gymnast and a dedicated gymnastics mom. In our engaging conversation,...

Welcome back to another empowering episode of the PerformHappy podcast! In today's installment, we dive into the realm of mental resilience, confidence, and growth after overcoming significant setbacks in sports and life. I'm thrilled to have the esteemed Dr. Carl Bescoby, PhD, MSc, BSc, CPsychol, HCPC, a seasoned psychologist with over 10 years of experience specializing in injury, heal...

In our latest PerformHappy Podcast episode, I sit down with the illustrious gymnastics coach, Cassie Rice. Renowned for coaching Olympians and earning multiple Coach of the Year accolades, Cassie shares her insights on cultivating mentally healthy gymnasts. This episode is a goldmine of practical tips for coaches seeking to create a positive training environment. Cassie emphasizes the synergy betw...

In today's episode of the PerformHappy podcast, we delve into the world of youth sports, a realm rife with pressure, competition, and the looming specter of disappointment. As parents, we're acutely aware of the unique challenges our young athletes, particularly gymnasts, face during this demanding season. Drawing inspiration from the pioneering work of child psychologist Dr. Becky Kenne...

In this captivating podcast episode, I sit down with Megan Ray, a remarkable third-year Division One gymnast at UC Davis. Megan's story offers a refreshing perspective on the lives of elite athletes. She candidly shares her experiences with insecurity, reminding us that even the best athletes face moments of self-doubt. Megan's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and self...

On today's PerformHappy Podcast, we've got a truly special interview that you won't want to miss. We're diving into the world of mental blocks with one of my past clients and her mom, as they share their inspirational journey of overcoming the struggles that many athletes face. If you're currently battling fear, hesitancy, or any mental roadblocks in your athletic pursuits...

Today on the PerformHappy podcast, I want to delve into the most significant obstacle that keeps mental blocks persistently resurfacing. This is the very reason that led me to quit gymnastics at the tender age of 14. I hope that by discussing it today, we can shed light on what's truly keeping your young athlete stuck, and more importantly, how to break free from this relentless cycle. So, wh...

Warning: Today's episode discusses sensitive topics, including trauma and abuse in gymnastics. Listener discretion is advised. Today on the PerformHappy Podcast we have an incredible interview with Braie (Speed) Swann. Swann is not only a former elite gymnast but also a former D1 collegiate gymnast at the University of Arkansas, who has embarked on a transformative journey to become a head co...

Today Coach Rebecca continues the discussion from the last episode, addressing parents who are navigating the challenges of supporting their children through mental blocks. As parents, we have tremendous influence over our kids. Everything we say and do leaves an impact. Even our well-intentioned efforts can put on more pressure and discourage them.   “The way that you show up as a sport parent is...

In this episode, Coach Rebecca provides invaluable guidance for parents who are supporting athletes struggling with mental blocks. A mental block is a challenge where the athlete's mind and body fail to work together; the body is fully capable, but the min d stops the body.    “Mental block isn’t rational, but it is very real and very frustrating.” -Rebecca Smith   Using the remarkable journe...

Today Coach Rebecca delves into a topic that every athlete and coach encounter at some point: the dreaded mental block. We’ve all witnessed it – those moments when we look at our athletes and see how tough and capable they are, and we can see from the outside that what they’re going through is a perspective issue. But helping them get through it can be frustrating.   “ You start with what you can...

Balking, also known as a mental block or a dip in confidence, occurs when an athlete struggles with a skill they ’re fully capable of performing. Today Coach Rebecca responds to a coach's question about how to handle a student grappling with balking.    She shares her current philosophy and two-balk rule , which includes a private discussion follows the first balk, and then the athlete is don...

As parents, we all want the best for our young athletes, especially when they're going through tough times. But what should you do if your child resists the help and guidance we offer? In this episode, Coach Rebecca addresses this common concern and provides valuable insights for parents seeking ways to understand and support their athletes effectively.   During the ir pre-teen and teenage ye...

Today Coach Rebecca is talking with Gemma Coles. She’s the creator of the Shuffle U p Gymnastics game. Together they talk about her game , why she developed it and why fun is the secret to success.   Gemma shares her gymnastics coaching background. She’s always loved gymnastics and it’s been a fun part of her life. She had such good memories of her childhood gymnastics experiences she knew she wan...

Do you want to develop unwavering mental strength and bounce back from setbacks in your gymnastics journey? Are you seeking a solution to build resilience and overcome challenges with confidence?    Look no further! Today, Coach Rebecca is delighted to introduce Sydney Ewing, an expert in building resilience in gymnasts. She'll share valuable insights and tips to help you develop the mental t...

Today, Coach Rebecca is doing a great training to help you stop stressing over things you can’t control. This episode is great for parents and athletes. Things happen that we can’t control , but here’s a go-to strategy you can use anytime .     Stress shows up when we spend energy trying to control things that we can’t control.  You may fall into the “control freak” mode. Trying to force and manag...

If you're feeling frustrated and helpless as your young athlete struggles with self-doubt, anxiety, or lack of confidence, then you ’re not alone!    The good news: building inner confidence is a learned skill that can be cultivated with targeted strategies and support. That’s what Coach Rebecca is covering in today’s episode.    The Inner Confidence Formula   P arental involvement is essenti...

What’s better than one gymnast in the family? Two of course!    In this episode Coach Rebecca is talking to the mother and daughter duo who are both competing in level 10 gymnastics. For everyone who ’s been told they’re too old, Liz is going to prove otherwise!   Liz shares her gymnastics journey that started when she was a kid. At 12 she began really pursuing higher level gymnastics and hasn’t s...