PerformHappy with Rebecca Smith

Rebecca Smith
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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.

  1. 5D AGO

    Tammy DeGuzman Teaches the Hidden Factor Behind High Scores (It’s Not Just Skills)

    Performance and high scores are not built on skills alone. They come from something most athletes overlook. In this episode of the Perform Happy Podcast, I sit down with Tammy DeGuzman to talk about the hidden factor that makes routines stand out. Tammy is a FIG brevet judge, coach, and parent who has seen the sport from every angle. She explains that judges can feel a routine within seconds. It is not just execution. It is presence, confidence, and what she calls the “twinkle in their eye.” We also talk about performance. Many athletes think you either have it or you don’t, but Tammy shows it can be trained. Using mirrors, music, and bigger movements, athletes can learn to project confidence and connect with judges. Another key takeaway is scores. Gymnastics is subjective, and chasing numbers can be frustrating. Instead, the focus should be on progress, confidence, and enjoying the process. We also discuss resilience. As a parent, it is tempting to fix everything, but growth comes from struggle. Sometimes the most powerful thing you can say is, “I believe in you.” In this episode you will hear How to stand out beyond skillsWhy performance can be trainedHow to handle scores the right wayWhy resilience matters more than perfectionIn this episode, Tammy DeGuzman shares how to build confident athletes who perform with presence and joy. 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

    40 min

  2. APR 21

    The Power of Not Caring What People Think with Myia Hambrick

    Confidence and consistency are not built by pressure alone. They come from feeling supported, having a sense of choice, and actually enjoying the process. In this episode of the Perform Happy Podcast I sit down with Myia Hambrick to talk about her journey from athlete to coach and what truly helps athletes thrive. Myia is a former standout at Louisiana State University gymnastics and now an assistant coach at University of Utah gymnastics. She shares how one key factor shaped her success: choice. Gymnastics was always something she wanted to do, not something she felt forced into. That freedom helped her stay motivated and confident, even during challenges. We also talk about fun. When Myia briefly explored elite gymnastics, it stopped being enjoyable, and she chose a different path. That decision led her to thrive in college. Now as a coach, she emphasizes that fun is not separate from success. It fuels it. Another key takeaway is identity outside the sport. Myia had interests, friendships, and support beyond gymnastics, which helped her stay grounded. This made it easier to handle setbacks without losing confidence. We also explore confidence and consistency. They build each other. Athletes perform better when they feel confident, and confidence grows through preparation, trust, and positive reinforcement. In this episode you will hear How choice builds confident athletes  Why fun drives performance  How identity outside sport supports resilience  Why confidence and consistency are connected In this episode, Myia Hambrick shares simple but powerful ways to help athletes perform at their best while still enjoying the journey. 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

    42 min

  3. APR 14

    ADHD and Anxiety in Athletes- What Coaches and Parents Need to Know with Susan Stout

    Supporting athletes with ADHD is not just about managing behavior. It is about understanding how their brain works, how they handle pressure, and how they experience feedback. In this episode of the Perform Happy Podcast I sit down with Susan Stout to talk about ADHD, anxiety, and how coaches and parents can better support athletes so they can succeed and enjoy their sport. Susan Stout educates and consults with athletic coaches to bring out the best in athletes who are wired differently, specializing in ADHD, learning differences, and anxiety. She built Own Beat Athlete based on her experience as a junior national level swimmer, select soccer player, coach, teacher, lawyer, and mom to a talented teen athlete with ADHD, dyslexia, and anxiety. One of the biggest themes in this conversation is the difference between “I won’t” and “I can’t.” Many athletes with ADHD are often misunderstood as lazy or defiant, when in reality they are overwhelmed. These athletes want to do well, but their brains can make consistency difficult. Shifting this perspective changes how we support them. We also talk about how ADHD and anxiety often show up together. Some athletes become anxious from years of criticism and pressure, which can lead to fear, avoidance, or emotional reactions. Understanding this helps coaches respond with empathy instead of frustration. Another key takeaway is the importance of proactive coaching. Getting to know each athlete before issues arise and asking what helps them reset gives coaches an “operating manual” for each kid. This allows athletes to regulate themselves and stay engaged. We also touch on feedback. Athletes with ADHD are often more sensitive, so positive reinforcement is essential. What coaches say becomes the voice athletes hear in their own head. In this episode you will hear How to tell the difference between “I can’t” and “I won’t” Why ADHD and anxiety often go hand in hand How to support athletes before problems happen Why positive feedback builds confidenceIn this episode of the Perform Happy Podcast Susan Stout shares simple strategies to help athletes with ADHD feel understood, build confidence, and enjoy their sport while performing at their best. 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

    38 min

  4. APR 7

    What Gymnastics Parents Get Wrong About Nutrition with Dr. Roger Adams

    Fueling a gymnast is not just about eating “healthy.” It is about giving the body and brain what they need to perform, recover, and grow. In this episode of the Perform Happy Podcast I sit down with Dr. Roger Adams to break down what most gymnastics families get wrong about nutrition and how to fix it. One of the biggest takeaways is that carbs are not the enemy. Many athletes are underfueling because they restrict carbs and calories to stay lean. But carbohydrates are the main source of energy for both the body and the brain. When an athlete does not get enough, performance drops, recovery slows, and injury risk goes up. Simply put, carbs are fuel, not something to fear. We also talk about the difference between healthy eating and performance fueling. What works for the average kid does not work for an athlete training 20 or more hours a week. Gymnasts need enough calories for performance, recovery, and growth. That means sometimes food is less about being “clean” and more about being effective. Another key point is how to spot underfueling. It is not always about how an athlete looks. The first signs often show up in their attitude and energy. If they are more tired, less motivated, or not enjoying practice, that can be a red flag. The brain will actually slow the body down to conserve energy when it is not getting enough fuel. We also dive into injury and recovery. Repeated injuries, slow healing, or constant soreness can be signs that an athlete is not eating enough. Proper fueling helps strengthen bones, muscles, and connective tissue so athletes can handle intense training loads. One of the most practical takeaways is how to close the recovery gap. Many athletes eat before practice but forget about after. Recovery should start immediately with a simple snack that includes carbs and protein. It does not have to be perfect, just easy to digest and consistent. We also cover meet day nutrition. When nerves are high, eating can be tough. The key is to fuel before arriving and keep things simple during the meet with quick carbs like fruit or crackers. Small amounts at the right time can make a big difference in performance. In this episode you will hear Why carbs are essential for performance and recovery How underfueling affects mood, motivation, and results Signs your athlete may not be eating enough How to support injury prevention through nutrition Simple ways to improve recovery after practice What to eat before and during competitionIn this episode of the Perform Happy Podcast Dr. Roger Adams and I share simple, practical strategies to help gymnasts fuel properly, recover faster, and perform with more energy and confidence. 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

    38 min

  5. MAR 31

    Competing Free, Even Under Pressure with Sloane Blakely

    Building a confident gymnast is not just about physical skills. It is about mindset, self talk, and how they handle pressure. In this episode of the Perform Happy Podcast I sit down with Sloane Blakely to talk about confidence, perfectionism, and how athletes can bounce back from mistakes and enjoy the sport again. One of the biggest themes in our conversation is how athletes deal with mistakes. Sloane shares that instead of trying to be perfect, she learned to let herself feel frustrated for a moment and then reset. She explains that it is okay to be upset, but you cannot stay there. The key is asking, what is next. This simple shift helps athletes stay focused instead of spiraling after one bad turn. We also talk about perfectionism and how it can actually hold athletes back. Sloane describes how she used to expect perfection from herself all the time. Over time, she learned to turn that mindset into a challenge instead. Instead of trying to be perfect, she focused on getting a little better each turn. That change helped her enjoy gymnastics more and perform with more freedom. Another key piece is confidence and self talk. Sloane shares how using positive affirmations changed her performance and even her life outside the gym. At first it felt strange, but over time she started to believe what she was telling herself. When athletes learn to speak to themselves with confidence, it shows in how they compete. We also dive into the importance of having a life outside of gymnastics. Sloane explains that taking time for things that have nothing to do with the sport helps athletes stay balanced. Whether it is spending time with family or doing something fun, those moments help reduce pressure and prevent burnout. One of the most powerful lessons from this episode is learning to enjoy the sport again. When Sloane got to college, she realized she did not have to be serious all the time. Once she allowed herself to relax and have fun, her performance improved. It showed her that working hard and enjoying the process can go together. In this episode you will hear How to reset after mistakes instead of getting stuck Why perfectionism can hurt performance How positive self talk builds real confidence Why athletes need balance outside the gym How having fun can actually improve performanceIn this episode of the Perform Happy Podcast Sloane Blakely and I share simple but powerful mindset shifts that help gymnasts build confidence, handle pressure, and enjoy the sport so they can perform at their best. 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

    39 min

  6. MAR 24

    Rethinking How We Build Great Gymnasts with Julie Ballard Clark

    Building a strong, confident gymnast is not just about skills. It is about the environment they grow up in. In this episode of the PerformHappy Podcast I sit down with Julie Ballard Clark to talk about how positive culture, supportive coaching, and mindful parenting shape not just great athletes, but strong humans. One of the biggest themes in our conversation is the power of a positive environment. When gymnasts feel supported instead of judged, they are more likely to stay in the sport and reach their potential. Julie shares how her own experience growing up in a gym that focused on encouragement and growth helped her fall in love with the process. Instead of fear or pressure, she learned to see challenges as part of the journey. That mindset stayed with her through college and into coaching. We also talk about the role parents play and how hard it can be to find the right balance. It is easy to slip from supporting into pushing without even realizing it. Julie explains that kids already feel pressure from themselves and their coaches. What they need most from parents is steady support and love no matter the outcome. When a child knows their worth is not tied to performance, they are more confident, resilient, and willing to keep going after mistakes. Another key piece is culture. The environment around an athlete can either help them thrive or burn them out. Julie shares how successful teams are built on trust, communication, and understanding each athlete as an individual. When athletes feel seen and heard, they take ownership of their journey. They learn how to handle challenges, speak up for themselves, and grow both in and out of the gym. Julie and I also dive into long term development. Gymnastics careers are short, but the impact lasts a lifetime. The goal is not just to create great athletes, but to help kids walk away from the sport with confidence, self trust, and a strong sense of identity. When we focus on effort, progress, and character, kids are set up to succeed far beyond their final routine. In this episode you will hear Why a positive environment helps gymnasts reach their potential  How parents can support without adding pressure  The difference between pushing and encouraging  What makes a strong team culture  How to help athletes build confidence that lasts beyond the sport In this episode of the PerformHappy Podcast Julie Ballard Clark and I share how small shifts in coaching, parenting, and culture can help gymnasts feel supported, confident, and motivated so they can thrive in sport and in life. 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

    42 min

  7. MAR 17

    When Gymnastics Stops Feeling Fun- Rebuilding Confidence, Identity, and Joy in the Sport with Stephanie Gaumer

    Injuries and mental blocks can feel scary and isolating for gymnasts and parents. In this episode of the PerformHappy Podcast I sit down with PerformHappy coach Stephanie Gaumer  to talk about confidence, fear, perfectionism, and what it really takes to come back when the sport suddenly feels harder than it used to. One of the biggest challenges gymnasts face is the mental side of the sport. Even athletes who look confident on the outside can struggle with fear, overthinking, and self doubt. Stephanie shares how she would sometimes go into practice and suddenly feel unsure of skills she had done for years. After a major ankle injury in high school, she also had to work through fear of reinjury and the frustration of not being where she used to be. Instead of letting those challenges stop her, Stephanie leaned into mindset and support. Staying connected to her team during recovery helped her push through the isolation that injuries can bring. She also worked with a sports psychologist who helped her focus on what she could control and build the mental tools she needed to come back stronger. We also talk about perfectionism and comparison, which are common struggles in gymnastics. When athletes feel like they have to be perfect, the sport can stop feeling fun and start feeling stressful. Stephanie helps athletes shift their mindset, focus on small wins, and find ways to relax in high pressure moments so they can perform with more confidence. Stephanie and I also talk about what athletes really need from their parents during tough times. Most athletes are not looking for advice or corrections. They want support, encouragement, and a safe space to share how they feel. When parents focus on connection instead of performance, it helps athletes feel more confident and less alone. In this episode you will hear Why even high level gymnasts struggle with confidence and fear  How injuries can impact athletes mentally and emotionally  The role of mindset in coming back from setbacks  Why perfectionism and comparison can hold athletes back  What athletes actually need from their parents  Simple ways to bring fun back into the sport In this episode of the PerformHappy Podcast Stephanie Gaumer and I share how gymnasts can navigate fear, rebuild confidence, and feel supported so they can keep growing and enjoying the sport. 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

    33 min

  8. MAR 11

    Hitting When it Counts- The Post-Season Playbook for Gym Families

    Post season can feel exciting but it can also be stressful for gymnasts and parents. In this episode of the PerformHappy Podcast I sit down with Briley Casanova to talk about how parents can support their athletes without adding extra pressure. One of the biggest challenges is pressure. As meets get closer, athletes and parents start thinking about scores, results, and qualifying. This can make gymnasts tense, overthink skills, or even freeze during routines. The more we try to push or correct at this stage, the worse it can feel. Instead, I share the 24 hour meet rule. In the 24 hours before a competition parents should keep conversations calm and avoid talking about scores or results. After the meet the focus should be on connection and support rather than analyzing performance. Let coaches handle corrections and focus on being a steady, supportive presence. Briley and I also talk about how athletes who handle pressure well keep simple routines, focus on one cue at a time, and have a reset plan if something goes wrong. When parents show love and support that is not tied to outcomes kids feel safer and more confident performing. In this episode you will hear Why pressure can make gymnasts tense during competitions What happens in the brain when athletes compete under stress The 24 hour meet rule for parents How athletes stay focused under pressure Simple ways parents can support their gymnastIn this episode of the PerformHappy Podcast Briley Casanova and I share small ways parents can help gymnasts feel calm, safe, and confident so they can perform their best. 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

    1h 21m
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Rebecca Smith
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2026
  • Episodes
    230
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 PerformHappy with Rebecca Smith
  • Show Website
    PerformHappy with Rebecca Smith

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