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PerformHappy with Rebecca Smith — College & High School
PerformHappy with Rebecca Smith

I’m Rebecca Smith, your podcast host, and High Performance Coach. I’m Director of Complete Performance Coaching and founder of The #PerformHappy Community.Maybe you’re a gymnast with a fear of going backwards. A swimmer who can’t seem to go any faster. Or a parent who is clueless about how to help your child succeed. You might be stepping up to tougher competition and looking to raise your game. Whether you’re struggling with a mental block, or you just had the best season of your life, this podcast is for you.Kids need resources to deal with the pressure of competition, but they don’t necessarily want it to be their coach or parents.I teach parents, coaches, and adolescent/teen athletes of all abilities how to achieve their personal best. These are the tips and mental toughness strategies that my clients tell me help them most.I also provide insights for parents and coaches who want to support their kids and their teams.Performing well is a blend of hard work, skill and mental toughness. I’ll teach you how to use all 3 to be the best athlete you can, and have FUN competing in your sport. Mental skills translate to all areas of your life. When kids learn skills to cope with stress & emotion in a sport context, they become better prepared to thrive in school and beyond.Join me each week as I help people reach peak performance and maximum enjoyment.

Latest Episodes:

The Truth About Hypermobility in Sports with Dr. Taylor Goldberg May 05, 2025

Show notes

Do you know an athlete who’s super bendy, always impressing with their flexibility, but constantly dealing with little injuries or pain that won’t go away? In this week’s PerformHappy Podcast, I sat down with chiropractor and hypermobility expert Dr. Taylor Goldberg to unpack exactly what’s going on behind the scenes for these “Gumby-like” athletes.

Dr. Goldberg shares her own journey as a high-level cheerleader—how being extra flexible wasn’t always the gift it seemed—and what she wishes she had known back then. We talk about the real risks of pushing flexibility too far (yep, we’re talking about over splits), and how strength is the missing link that could help save ultra-flexible athletes from years of chronic pain.

If you’re a parent or coach of a super bendy kid, this episode is a must. You’ll learn how to spot hypermobility, why traditional stretching might be making things worse, and what you can do instead to build strength, prevent injuries, and support long-term health.

In this episode, Coach Rebecca and Dr. Taylor Goldberg talk about:

Understanding Hypermobility: Definitions and Types.

The Key Indicators of Hypermobility.

Injury Prevention for Hypermobile Athletes.

Screening and Diagnosis of Hypermobility.

Coaching Strategies for Hypermobile Athletes.

Mindfulness and Mental Health for Hypermobility.

“Overstretching is extremely dangerous and unnecessary." - Dr. Taylor Goldberg

Dr. Taylor Goldberg's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehypermobilechiro/

Dr. Taylor Goldberg’s Website: https://thehypermobilechiro.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAafMoYX_8IbeV8g-Zbyq0Gw5eQAo7Hif0G7d8nQbStTQ6hnbniXJRLZSWyobmw_aem_H_S9KSg-q4GKfdxx_Ci1yQ

Learn exactly what to say and do to guide your athlete through a mental block with my new book "Parenting Through Mental Blocks" Order your copy today: https://a.co/d/g990Bur
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/complete_performance/

Join my FaceBook page: https://www.facebook.com/completeperformancecoaching/

Check out my website: https://completeperformancecoaching.com/
Write to me! Email: rebecca@completeperformancecoaching.com
Ready to help your athlete overcome fears and mental blocks while gaining unstoppable confidence? Discover the transformative power of PerformHappy now. If your athlete is struggling or feeling left behind, it's time for a change. Are you ready? For more info and to sign up: PerformHappy.com

The ABC Framework - Managing Fear in High-Risk Sports with Sam Buxbaum Apr 28, 2025

Show notes

Today on the PerformHappy Podcast, I’m thrilled to introduce you to one of our own – Coach Sam, also known around here as Samantha Buxbaum. Sam is a fearless athlete who has competed in gymnastics, diving, and now rock climbing, and she brings so much wisdom from her journey through high-risk sports.

In this episode, Sam shares her experience with fear, mental training, and how critical self-advocacy is for athletes in what we call “scary sports.” She also dives into the ABC Framework — a simple, effective way to help athletes manage fear and build resilience.

Whether you're an athlete, a parent, or a coach, this conversation is packed with practical advice on how to support kids through the mental challenges that come with pushing physical limits. Plus, you’ll get to know Coach Sam a little better and hear why we’re so lucky to have her on the Complete Performance Coaching team.

In this episode, Coach Rebecca and Samantha Buxbaum talk about:

Introduction to Coach Sam Buxbaum.

Sam's Journey in Sports and Gymnastics.

The Importance of Self-Love and Body Image.

Navigating Family Dynamics and Body Image.

Supporting Kids in Scary Sports.

Understanding Risk and Comfort Zones.

The ABC Framework for Athletes.

Finding Your True Self in Sports.

"You can't pour from an empty cup." - Samantha Buxbaum

Samantha Buxbaum’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samanthakbuxbaum/

Samantha Buxbaum’s Website: https://www.riseperformancellc.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAafgg6RG16dR4LFX-QIzU3ad9E5IiFpXd8Bpm3p_BBXEAycgVz_xhd0VyLnfYQ_aem_9UsUg8jPUThabGMKSEdcMw

Learn exactly what to say and do to guide your athlete through a mental block with my new book "Parenting Through Mental Blocks" Order your copy today: https://a.co/d/g990Bur
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/complete_performance/

Join my FaceBook page: https://www.facebook.com/completeperformancecoaching/

Check out my website: https://completeperformancecoaching.com/
Write to me! Email: rebecca@completeperformancecoaching.com
Ready to help your athlete overcome fears and mental blocks while gaining unstoppable confidence? Discover the transformative power of PerformHappy now. If your athlete is struggling or feeling left behind, it's time for a change. Are you ready? For more info and to sign up: PerformHappy.com

The Science of Bravery with Jill Schulman Apr 21, 2025

Show notes

If you’ve ever wondered how to help your child (or yourself) face fear and rise to the occasion, this episode is for you.

This week on the PerformHappy Podcast, I had the absolute pleasure of chatting with Jill Shulman—a former U.S. Marine Corps officer, positive psychology expert, and soon-to-be author of a book on the science of bravery. Yes, science! This wasn’t just a feel-good conversation… we dove deep into the research-backed strategies that help people become braver, happier, and more capable of achieving big dreams.

I couldn’t get enough of it. We totally geeked out over the psychology of courage, the connection between bravery and happiness, and what it actually takes to empower someone who’s feeling afraid.

If you’ve got a nervous athlete in your life—or if you’re navigating fear yourself—this one’s a must-listen.

In this episode, Coach Rebecca and Jill Shulman talk about:

The Science of Bravery.

Why Bravery Isn’t Fearless.

Escaping the Comfort Trap.

How to Boost Mental Health and Resilience.

Progress Over Perfection.

Find Your Brave Tribe How Honest Feedback and Support Unlock Your Potential.

The Power of Yet.

Bravery Beyond Sports.

"Taking away obstacles to make kids happy creates comfort, but science shows that the comfort trap actually hinders their ability to face challenges, which is key to true happiness and well-being.” – Jill Shulman

Jill Shulman’s Website and free PDF on Tips to Build Your Bravery: https://www.jillschulman.com/

Jill Shulman’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jillschulman/?hl=en

Jill Shulman’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JILLSCHULMAN

Learn exactly what to say and do to guide your athlete through a mental block with my new book "Parenting Through Mental Blocks" Order your copy today: https://a.co/d/g990Bur
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/complete_performance/

Join my FaceBook page: https://www.facebook.com/completeperformancecoaching/

Check out my website: https://completeperformancecoaching.com/
Write to me! Email: rebecca@completeperformancecoaching.com
Ready to help your athlete overcome fears and mental blocks while gaining unstoppable confidence? Discover the transformative power of PerformHappy now. If your athlete is struggling or feeling left behind, it's time for a change. Are you ready? For more info and to sign up: PerformHappy.com

How 3x Olympian Shallon Olsen Turns Pressure into Performance Apr 14, 2025

Show notes

Pressure is part of the game in gymnastics, but how do the best in the world handle it? On this episode of the PerformHappy podcast, I sit down with three-time Olympian Shallon Olsen from Canada to talk about just that.

Shallon is known for her powerful vaulting, but what sets her apart is her ability to stay calm and focused—even under intense competition pressure. We dive into her mindset, how she keeps her nerves in check, and the strategies she’s developed to thrive when the stakes are high.

If you've ever struggled with performance anxiety or want to know how elite athletes manage pressure, this episode is for you!

In this episode, Coach Rebecca and Shallon Olsen talk about:

Shallon Olsen’s Top Tips on Thriving Under Pressure and Adapting to Challenges.

The Power of Supportive Coaching.

Achieving Greatness Through Teamwork, Consistency, and Mental Training.

Overcoming Injuries with Smart Training and Patience.

What It’s Like Competing Against Simone Biles and Focusing on Your Own Journey.

"Pressure is a privilege. It keeps me accountable for my goals and reminds me how lucky I am to represent Canada on the biggest stage. We don't have to do this—we get to.” – Shallon Olsen

Shallon Olsen’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shallon_olsen/

Learn exactly what to say and do to guide your athlete through a mental block with my new book "Parenting Through Mental Blocks" Order your copy today: https://a.co/d/g990Bur
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/complete_performance/

Join my FaceBook page: https://www.facebook.com/completeperformancecoaching/

Check out my website: https://completeperformancecoaching.com/
Write to me! Email: rebecca@completeperformancecoaching.com
Ready to help your athlete overcome fears and mental blocks while gaining unstoppable confidence? Discover the transformative power of PerformHappy now. If your athlete is struggling or feeling left behind, it's time for a change. Are you ready? For more info and to sign up: PerformHappy.com

Kohei Uchimura's Coach Teaches the Key to Mental Strength Apr 07, 2025

Show notes

What does it take to coach one of the greatest gymnasts of all time? On today’s PerformHappy Podcast, I sit down with Hiroaki Sato, the mastermind behind Japan’s men’s gymnastics gold medal at the 2024 Olympics and the coach of legendary gymnast Kohei Uchimura.

Sato’s coaching philosophy is all about putting people first. From working with the GOAT of men’s gymnastics to leading an entire team to victory, his approach is built on trust, joy, and teamwork. He shares game-changing insights on how to develop mental strength—not just for elite athletes, but for anyone striving for success.

If you’re looking for practical ways to build confidence and resilience, this episode is a must-listen. Sato’s wisdom is as inspiring as it is effective.

In this episode, Coach Rebecca and Hiroaki Sato talk about:

Hiroaki Sato's Journey to Becoming Kohei Uchimura's Coach.

The Power of Gratitude and a Positive Mindset in Coaching.

How to Overcome Negativity and Cultivate Resilience in Athletes.

Balancing Team Goals with Individual Aspirations.

Developing Mental Strength Through Passion and Balance.

The Power of Support in Building Resilient Athletes.

Leaving a Legacy of Excellence and Empowering Athletes' Unique Styles.

"Love for the sport makes any hardship bearable—that’s the key to mental strength." – Hiroaki Sato

Hiroaki Sato’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hiroaki1460/

Learn exactly what to say and do to guide your athlete through a mental block with my new book "Parenting Through Mental Blocks" Order your copy today: https://a.co/d/g990Bur
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/complete_performance/

Join my FaceBook page: https://www.facebook.com/completeperformancecoaching/

Check out my website: https://completeperformancecoaching.com/
Write to me! Email: rebecca@completeperformancecoaching.com
Ready to help your athlete overcome fears and mental blocks while gaining unstoppable confidence? Discover the transformative power of PerformHappy now. If your athlete is struggling or feeling left behind, it's time for a change. Are you ready? For more info and to sign up: PerformHappy.com

Trust, Accept, Be Present- Graham Betchart’s Three-Step Plan for Sport Success Mar 31, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the PerformHappy Podcast, I sit down with mental skills coach Graham Betchart, whose expertise has helped top NBA players develop a strong mindset for high-pressure moments. But what makes Graham’s approach so powerful is that it’s not just for elite athletes—it’s for anyone who wants to perform at their best, embrace mistakes, and stay present.

Graham shares his simple yet game-changing three-step plan: Trust, Accept, Be Present. He explains how trusting yourself, accepting whatever happens (mistakes and all), and staying in the moment can unlock your full potential—whether in sports or life.

If you’re ready to shift your mindset and perform with confidence, you won’t want to miss this conversation.

From Athlete to Mindset Coach – Graham Betchart’s Journey into Sports Psychology.

Finding Purpose How Passion and Mental Skills Shape Success.

Practical Tips for Being Present and Performing with Confidence.

Why Parents and Coaches Need to Create a Safe Space for Athletes to Fail.

Tactical Tips for Perfectionist Athletes to Get Present.

Trust, Accept, Be Present - Graham Betchart’s Three-Step Plan for Sport Success.

“Anxiety lives in the future. Fear lives in the future. Once you're present, it goes away.” – Graham Betchart

Graham Betchart’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grahamtheguide/

Graham Betchart’s Music: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1RYQHqh4lC2QjS0jVFPvES

Learn exactly what to say and do to guide your athlete through a mental block with my new book "Parenting Through Mental Blocks" Order your copy today: https://a.co/d/g990Bur
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/complete_performance/

Join my FaceBook page: https://www.facebook.com/completeperformancecoaching/

Check out my website: https://completeperformancecoaching.com/
Write to me! Email: rebecca@completeperformancecoaching.com
Ready to help your athlete overcome fears and mental blocks while gaining unstoppable confidence? Discover the transformative power of PerformHappy now. If your athlete is struggling or feeling left behind, it's time for a change. Are you ready? For more info and to sign up: PerformHappy.com

Lost Skills and Stuck Takeoffs - James Coomber’s Secrets to Tackling Both Types of Mental Blocks Mar 24, 2025

Show notes

Mental blocks can be one of the most frustrating challenges for athletes, whether it's a lost skill that suddenly disappears or a takeoff that just won’t feel right. In this episode of the PerformHappy Podcast, I sit down with elite trampoline coach James Coomber to dive into both types of mental blocks and how to break through them.

James is an incredible coach who balances high-level goals with a nurturing approach. He’s worked with world-class athletes, but he firmly believes that there’s a place for everyone in the sport. In our conversation, we cover the power of embracing vulnerability, why mental blocks happen, and the best ways to move forward with confidence.

If you've ever felt stuck, whether in the air or on the ground, this episode is for you.

In this episode, Coach Rebecca and James Coomber talk about:

James Coomber’s Journey from Athlete to Elite Coach.

Challenges and Responsibilities of Running a Successful Club.

How to Keep Athletes Engaged and Inspired.

The Importance of Coaching Different Personalities and Adapting to Individual Needs.

Overcoming Mental Blocks with Confidence and Support.

Building Trust and Emotional Support in Coaching.

Balancing High Standards and Individual Needs.

“You learn best when you're uncomfortable—because that's when you truly test what you're capable of. Anyone can succeed when things are easy, but real resilience is finding a way forward when you're up against the wall.” – James Coomber

James Coomber’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coomberj/

James Coomber’s Club Website: https://www.trampoline.co.uk/

James Coomber’s Club Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jumpersreboundcentre/

Learn exactly what to say and do to guide your athlete through a mental block with my new book "Parenting Through Mental Blocks" Order your copy today: https://a.co/d/g990Bur
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/complete_performance/

Join my FaceBook page: https://www.facebook.com/completeperformancecoaching/

Check out my website: https://completeperformancecoaching.com/
Write to me! Email: rebecca@completeperformancecoaching.com
Ready to help your athlete overcome fears and mental blocks while gaining unstoppable confidence? Discover the transformative power of PerformHappy now. If your athlete is struggling or feeling left behind, it's time for a change. Are you ready? For more info and to sign up: PerformHappy.com

Safer Skills, Happier Athletes - Dr. Ian Crider’s Gymnastics Roadmap Mar 17, 2025

Show notes

If you’ve ever felt like pushing harder is the only way to improve in gymnastics, this episode is for you. I sat down with Dr. Ian Crider, also known as the gymnastics doc, to talk about a better way—one that leads to safer skills, fewer injuries, and happier athletes.
Dr. Crider is the expert when it comes to balancing safe training with top-level performance. In our conversation, he breaks down how gymnasts can make real progress without pain, why smart conditioning is more effective than overtraining, and how something as simple as getting enough sleep can make a huge difference in performance.
If you’re looking for a roadmap to training smarter, staying injury-free, and feeling good while chasing big goals, you won’t want to miss this one.
In this episode, Coach Rebecca and Dr. Ian Crider talk about:
Meet Dr. Ian Crider the Gymnastics Doc Redefining Safe and High-Performance Training.
Breaking the Pain Cycle in Gymnastics Challenging Myths and Embracing Smarter Training.
Proactive Coaching Preventing Injuries Through Smart Planning.
How to Build Strong, Flexible Gymnasts for Injury Prevention and Peak Performance.
How Sleep Impacts Gymnast Performance and Injury Prevention.
Balancing School and Gymnastics Finding Success in Both Without Sacrificing Well-Being.
Elevating Performance with Dr. Ian Crider’s Resources and Services.
“Kids can be healthy, pain-free, and perform at a high level." – Dr. Ian Crider
Dr. Ian Crider’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegymnasticsdoc/
Dr. Ian Crider’s Website: https://www.elevate-sp.com/
Dr. Ian Crider’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/675633509568766/
Dr. Ian Crider’s Email: ian@elevate-sp.com

Learn exactly what to say and do to guide your athlete through a mental block with my new book "Parenting Through Mental Blocks" Order your copy today: https://a.co/d/g990Bur
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/complete_performance/

Join my FaceBook page: https://www.facebook.com/completeperformancecoaching/

Check out my website: https://completeperformancecoaching.com/
Write to me! Email: rebecca@completeperformancecoaching.com
Ready to help your athlete overcome fears and mental blocks while gaining unstoppable confidence? Discover the transformative power of PerformHappy now. If your athlete is struggling or feeling left behind, it's time for a change. Are you ready? For more info and to sign up: PerformHappy.com

Choreographing Confidence With Chloe Van Bavel Mar 10, 2025

Show notes

This week on the PerformHappy podcast, I’m thrilled to welcome Chloe Van Bavel, a former Dutch elite gymnast turned professional choreographer with an impressive background in ballet, modern dance, social work, and sports psychology. Chloe brings a unique perspective to the gymnastics world, helping athletes shine from the inside out.
In our conversation, Chloe shares how she builds confidence, creativity, and joy through the art of choreography. Whether you're a gymnast who thrives on performance or a "robo gymnast" who feels self-conscious about dancing, Chloe’s approach blends artistry and athleticism in a way that helps every athlete feel capable and confident in their routines.
Join us as we explore her innovative methods for teaching gymnasts how to connect with their movements, express themselves authentically, and truly enjoy the process.
Listen now and discover how to bring more artistry—and confidence—into your gymnastics journey.
In this episode, Coach Rebecca and Chloe Van Bavel talk about:
Chloe Van Bavel's Early Gymnastics Journey.
Building Confidence Through Dance and Team Performances.
Using Humor to Make Choreography Fun and Fearless.
How to Bring Emotion and Personality to Gymnastics Routines.
Reducing Self-Consciousness Through Improvisation and Play.
Using Gymnastics and Dance to Build Stronger, More Self-Aware Athletes.
Balancing Life’s Challenges with Gratitude and New Perspectives.
Life Skills for Gymnasts: Perseverance, Nerves, and Enjoying the Journey.
"Humor is the easiest way to drop tension and spark creativity." – Chloe Van Bavel
Chloe Van Bavel’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chloevanbavel/
Chloe Van Bavels Website: https://www.chloevanbavel.com/

Learn exactly what to say and do to guide your athlete through a mental block with my new book "Parenting Through Mental Blocks" Order your copy today: https://a.co/d/g990Bur
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/complete_performance/

Join my FaceBook page: https://www.facebook.com/completeperformancecoaching/

Check out my website: https://completeperformancecoaching.com/
Write to me! Email: rebecca@completeperformancecoaching.com
Ready to help your athlete overcome fears and mental blocks while gaining unstoppable confidence? Discover the transformative power of PerformHappy now. If your athlete is struggling or feeling left behind, it's time for a change. Are you ready? For more info and to sign up: PerformHappy.com

Suni Lee's Auburn Head Coach Jeff Graba on Making Winning Worth It Mar 03, 2025

Show notes

This week on the PerformHappy podcast, I had the pleasure of chatting with Jeff Graba, Auburn University’s legendary head gymnastics coach and mentor to Olympic champion Suni Lee.
In this episode, Jeff shares how he helps athletes navigate fear, bounce back from setbacks, and create championship journeys that aren’t just about winning—they’re about making the entire process meaningful and fulfilling.
Jeff’s insights are not only practical but also refreshing, especially in a high-pressure sport like gymnastics. He dives into strategies that help athletes grow through challenges while ensuring that their hard work leads to a rewarding experience, both on and off the mat.
Here’s a fun fact: Jeff has a twin brother, Jess, who is also a gymnastics coach! Talk about a dynamic duo in the gymnastics world.
Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or parent, this episode is packed with wisdom and inspiration to help you reframe what success looks like and how to make the journey worth it.
Tune in now to hear Jeff’s story and takeaways that could change the way you approach performance and growth.
In this episode, Coach Rebecca and Jeff Graba talk about:
Gymnastics Legends, Twin Mix-Ups, and Coaching Chemistry.
Putting Athletes First and Building a Coaching Philosophy That Lasts.
Balancing Family and Coaching.
Behind the Scenes with Coaching Suni Lee: Courage, Hard Work, and the Secrets to Success.
Turning Setbacks into Strength: The Path to Long-Term Success.
Empowering Athletes and the Role of Parents in Building Champions.
Leaving a Legacy and Coaching for Life Beyond the Gym.
"There are two ways to motivate—love, which builds long-term success by meeting athletes where they are, and fear, which may be quick but is short-lived; true success comes from making the journey worth it, where both the athlete and coach can look back with pride." – Jeff Graba
Jeff Graba’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachjeffgraba/
Jeff Graba’s Email: jeffgraba@auburn.edu

Learn exactly what to say and do to guide your athlete through a mental block with my new book "Parenting Through Mental Blocks" Order your copy today: https://a.co/d/g990Bur
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/complete_performance/

Join my FaceBook page: https://www.facebook.com/completeperformancecoaching/

Check out my website: https://completeperformancecoaching.com/
Write to me! Email: rebecca@completeperformancecoaching.com
Ready to help your athlete overcome fears and mental blocks while gaining unstoppable confidence? Discover the transformative power of PerformHappy now. If your athlete is struggling or feeling left behind, it's time for a change. Are you ready? For more info and to sign up: PerformHappy.com

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