Performhappy With Rebecca Smith

Today on the PerformHappy Podcast, I’m joined by Jill Hicks, one of the top experts in college gymnastics recruiting. If you’re a gymnast dreaming of competing at the college level, or a parent or coach supporting that dream, this episode is packed with must-hear advice.Jill shares her wealth of knowledge on navigating eligibility rules, finding the right college fit, and staying motivated through the ups and downs of the recruiting journey. She breaks down what truly matters in the recruiting process—beyond just scores and skills—and offers practical insights for athletes at every stage.Whether you're aiming for a scholarship or simply hoping to continue your gymnastics journey in college, this conversation is full of actionable takeaways to help you succeed.Tune in now to get Jill's expert tips and make sure you're on the right track for college recruiting success!In this episode, Coach Rebecca and Jill Hicks talk about:When to Start the Recruiting Process.Dream Big Fit Smart Balancing Aspira

On today’s PerformHappy podcast, I had the privilege of sitting down with Carly Dockendorf, head coach of Utah Gymnastics. Carly brings a unique perspective to the table—not just as a coach but as a former national team athlete for Canada who has faced her own challenges with mental blocks.During our conversation, Carly opens up about her struggles with fear and how those experiences have shaped her approach to coaching. She shares her insights into creating a culture of trust and reigniting passion in her athletes. Carly doesn’t hold back, offering an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to support athletes, both mentally and physically, at one of the top gymnastics programs in the country.Whether you’re a Utah fan, a gymnastics enthusiast, or someone who has faced fear and doubt in your own life, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical takeaways. Carly’s wisdom and vulnerability make this a must-listen for anyone looking to understand the heart of true leadership in sports.In thi

If you’re looking for a feel-good, inspiring conversation, you won’t want to miss this week’s episode of the PerformHappy podcast! I had the absolute pleasure of chatting with Morgan Mannix, the general manager of Dana Mannix Gymnastics and a standout coach known for her innovative, athlete-first approach.Morgan is a true expert in the art of balancing joy and excellence in gymnastics. Whether it’s helping gymnasts overcome mental blocks, breaking down complex skills into approachable progressions, or designing drills that are both technical and fun, Morgan’s creativity shines through in everything she does.In our conversation, she opened up about her journey as a gymnast and how it shaped her coaching philosophy. We also dove into her passion for creating pathways in gymnastics that prioritize accessibility and fun, allowing more kids to fall in love with the sport.One of my favorite moments was when Morgan gave me the space to go deep on mental blocks. We explored actionable strategies for athletes, parents

On today's podcast, I’m sitting down with collegiate gymnast Carissa Clay, who has a story you won’t want to miss. Carissa has competed at two Division 1 schools and is now in her fifth year of eligibility—a testament to her love for the sport and her incredible resilience.We talk about some of the toughest challenges she’s faced, including navigating mental blocks like the twisties, a challenge many gymnasts know all too well. Carissa shares how she worked through those moments, redefining her identity beyond gymnastics and finding joy in embracing imperfection.Her journey is one of faith, positivity, and a commitment to growth—not just as an athlete but as a person. Whether you’re an athlete struggling with mental blocks, a parent looking to support your gymnast, or a coach seeking new ways to encourage your athletes, Carissa’s story offers powerful lessons in resilience and self-belief.Tune in to hear how Carissa turned her challenges into triumphs and found confidence along the way. Her insights will

On today’s PerformHappy Podcast, I had the absolute pleasure of talking with Coach Yandy Urquila—a name many of you might recognize from social media as one of the most inspiring coaches out there. After this episode, it’s easy to see why he’s earned that reputation.Yandy’s journey began as a self-proclaimed “gym baby,” growing up in his parents' gym, where he developed not just his gymnastics skills but also a deep passion for the sport. Over the years, he’s become a game-changing coach, known for his innovative drills, incredible positivity, and, perhaps most impressively, the sheer number of perfect 10s his athletes earn on compulsory vaults.Now, I’ll admit, I was a bit skeptical about those scores—who gets that many 10s, right? But Yandy was happy to let me dig into his methods. And let me tell you, his approach might surprise you as much as it did me.In this episode, Yandy shares his secrets to cultivating a winning gym culture, rooted in joy, respect, and a growth mindset. He explains how focusing

Today on the PerformHappy podcast, I’m joined by Dr. Brittany Lapinski, better known as The Gymnastics PT, to talk about something every gymnast, coach, and parent needs to hear: how to prevent injuries and recover stronger when setbacks happen.Dr. Lapinski shares her expert insights on building a mindset that prioritizes injury prevention and long-term health. She explains how gymnasts can avoid common mistakes that often lead to injuries, while also giving practical tips for recovering both physically and mentally. Her approach focuses on helping athletes trust their bodies, make smart choices, and stay resilient through challenges.This conversation is a must-listen for anyone who wants to support gymnasts in staying healthy, confident, and ready to take on their goals. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from one of the best in the field!In this episode, Coach Rebecca and Dr. Brittany Lapinski talk about:From Gymnast to PT how Brittany’s Journey Through Injuries Shaped Her Career.Navigating Injuries and C

On today’s PerformHappy podcast, I had the pleasure of chatting with Sam Phillips, a former international elite gymnast and current standout at the University of Illinois. Sam’s journey is nothing short of inspiring—from competing on the national stage to overcoming personal challenges that helped him rediscover his joy in the sport.In this episode, Sam opens up about his "mental health era" and how he’s embraced setbacks as opportunities for growth. He shares how he turned self-doubt into confidence and found a new purpose in gymnastics.If you’ve ever felt stuck or struggled with challenges, this conversation is a must-listen. Sam’s story is a powerful reminder that every obstacle can lead to growth if we’re willing to see it that way.In this episode, Coach Rebecca and Sam Phillips talk about:From Mommy & Me to NCAA, Sam Phillips' Gymnastics Journey.Turning Pain Into Progress; Overcoming Injuries.Navigating Growth, Nutrition and Recovery in Gymnastics.Overcoming Self-Doub and Building Conf

Today's podcast is a must-listen for all the sport families out there who feel the pressure of the college admissions process. Whether you’re facing setbacks like injuries or worried that athletic achievements alone might not be enough to open those college gates, you’re not alone. The good news? There’s more to the story than just sports stats.  I’m thrilled to welcome Rachel Collins to the show! Rachel is the CEO of College Prep Consulting and has an incredible background as a former admissions officer at both UC Berkeley and Stanford. She’s here to share invaluable insider tips on how athletes can stand out in the admissions process—not just with their sports but by finding and highlighting their unique points of excellence outside the game.  From a passion for baking to coding to making an impact through community service, Rachel explains how showcasing your individuality can help you shine to admissions teams. You’ll hear real-life examples and actionable advice to help your athlete (or future athle

On today’s PerformHappy podcast, I’m thrilled to welcome figure skating coach Michelle Hong. Michelle’s approach to coaching is a breath of fresh air, bringing forward a healthier, more holistic way to enjoy the sport of figure skating—a direction that so many young athletes need. Her insights highlight how sports like figure skating (and gymnastics) are evolving beyond the traditional pressure of perfecting every move.In our conversation, Michelle shares her own story and offers practical tips for skaters and athletes who feel held back by fear of judgment or the anxiety of performing under watchful eyes. She emphasizes that learning to love performing isn’t about erasing the nerves but about finding confidence and joy in every movement. For anyone who feels stuck or like they’re not making progress, Michelle’s advice will resonate deeply. Her perspective offers a more fulfilling way to embrace sports, making it easier for athletes to feel happier and more resilient.If you’re an athlete, coach, or parent of

Hi guys! On today's PerformHappy podcast, I'm absolutely thrilled to bring you a conversation with none other than Miss Val—yes, the Valorie Kondos Field, legendary former head coach of UCLA gymnastics. Miss Val led her team to seven national championships and was even named Coach of the Century. She’s truly one of a kind, and after spending time with her, I’m ready to sign up for her classes myself. She’s that inspiring.In this episode, we dive into what it means to be a true champion. For Miss Val, it’s not just about the medals and titles; it’s about character, joy, and leaving a positive impact on everyone around you. Champions who grow as people are the ones who win with heart—they bring joy to their work, they smile even through the hard stuff, and they inspire others to push for greatness.Miss Val shares her secrets on building a culture where athletes feel safe, supported, challenged, and motivated to work hard for their dreams. Her approach emphasizes the importance of mental health, leader

Today on the PerformHappy podcast, we’re diving into the world of Men’s elite gymnastics with Heath Thorpe, a true standout from Australia known for his incredible artistry and athleticism. Heath is making waves not only with his powerful routines but also by pushing the limits of self-expression in a sport that doesn’t always welcome individuality. He’s showing a new generation of athletes what it means to be authentic, even in high-stakes environments.Heath’s journey is one of resilience and persistence. From competing at the highest levels to performing groundbreaking routines, he’s experienced both the thrill of success and the heartbreak of just missing his goal of making the 2024 Olympic team. But it’s how he’s faced those setbacks and mental challenges that’s so inspiring.Tune in as Heath opens up about his path, shares his strategies for overcoming mental blocks, and offers powerful insights on staying true to yourself. Whether you're an athlete or not, there’s so much to learn from Heath’s story

On today's PerformHappy podcast, we're diving deep into the world of sport parenting with a truly special guest, Asia Mape. Asia is a four-time Emmy Award-winning journalist and sports TV producer who has worked for all the major sports networks, covering some of the biggest events, including five Olympics and NBA profiles. But the reason she's here today goes beyond her impressive career—she’s also the mother of three daughters who all love sports, and she’s the founder of I Love to Watch You Play.Asia’s passion is helping parents stop unintentionally harming their children’s sports experience. In this episode, we discuss how to handle toxic sport parents, how to avoid becoming one, and what your kids really want from you as their biggest supporter. Most importantly, Asia shares her insights on how to raise happy, healthy, and successful young athletes.If you want to know how to bring out the best in your kids and support their journey in a positive way, this episode is for you.In this episode

Hey guys! On today's PerformHappy podcast, I had the pleasure of sitting down with the amazing Louise Brownsey, an elite trampolinist from Great Britain. She's done some truly incredible things, from competing in World Championships to performing at Disneyland Paris.In this episode, we dive into her journey—how she overcame fears, handled pressure, and turned her passion for trampoline into a dream job. Whether you're a young gymnast looking for inspiration, a supportive parent, or just someone who loves a good success story, this conversation is full of fun insights and positivity.Tune in for some joy, resilience, and a bit of Disney magic!In this episode, Coach Rebecca and Louise Brownsey talk about:Living the Dream at Disneyland and Beyond.Overcoming Fear and Mental Strategies.Handling Pressure and Consistent Training.Winning Junior World Championships and Emotional Impact.How to Bounce Back from Setbacks and Challenges.Rediscovering the Joy in Competitions.“Fun is key! I realized that zero

Hi everyone! On today’s PerformHappy podcast, we dive deep into a topic that’s close to my heart—ADHD. Whether you have ADHD, coach athletes with ADHD, or are raising a child with it, this episode is packed with valuable insights.I’m thrilled to welcome Dr. Brent Hogarth, a clinical psychologist and sports psychology expert who specializes in ADHD and hyperfocus. Dr. Hogarth has worked with Olympic athletes, CEOs, and first responders, and—fun fact—he’s a former gymnast and alum of my university! In this episode, Dr. Hogarth shares quick, actionable tips to help ADHD athletes tap into their strengths and make life easier for both them and their support systems. Trust me, this is an episode you don’t want to miss!Tune in and unlock those ADHD superpowers in sports!In this episode, Coach Rebecca and Dr. Brent Hogarth talk about:Unlocking ADHD Power with Dr. Brent Hogarth.Helping Athletes and Adults Thrive with ADHD.Boosting Mental Health in Athletes with ADHD.Using Self-Compassion to Overcome Mental Blocks and

Hey guys! I am so excited about today’s episode of the PerformHappy podcast because I’m sitting down with none other than Olivia Trautman, former University of Oklahoma gymnast, international elite athlete, and a true resilience master. Olivia has achieved so much in her career—she’s a four-time NCAA national champion, NCAA vault champion, and a 10-time All-American. She’s also celebrated two NCAA team championships and is now coaching at the University of Oklahoma, continuing to inspire the next generation of gymnasts.But what really stands out about Olivia isn’t just her long list of accomplishments—it’s her mindset. In this episode, she shares invaluable lessons about mental toughness and resilience. Whether you’re a parent, an athlete, or a coach, Olivia’s insights into how to develop the mental grit to overcome any challenge are golden. She talks about the mindset that athletes need to thrive and how parents can foster that same resilience in their kids.So if you’re looking for an empowering, no-nonsense

On today’s episode of the PerformHappy Podcast, I’m joined by Shayamal Jallabhjee, an expert in mental resilience who has worked with top athletes and leaders across the globe. Shayamal shares practical tips on how to stay calm and balanced, whether you’re an athlete, a coach, or just dealing with the everyday stress of life.We dive into topics like mindfulness, staying centered during tough moments, and how to build the mental strength needed to handle whatever life throws your way. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed or in need of some mental clarity, this episode is packed with tools you can start using right away to bring more calm and balance into your life.Tune in for some amazing insights on staying cool under pressure!In this episode, Coach Rebecca and Shayamal Jallabhjee talk about:Managing Performance Anxiety.How to Build Resilience.Parental Influence and Safe Environments in Gymnastics.Balancing Life and Sport for Stability in Mental Health.Practical Tips for Building Composure.The Role of Breath in Pe

In today’s episode of the PerformHappy podcast, I’m excited to sit down with resilience expert Nina Sossamon Pogue. Nina is a former US elite gymnast, a member of the US national team, an Emmy Award-winning broadcaster, best-selling author, keynote speaker, and a mom. With her incredible background, she’s got a wealth of knowledge to share.One of Nina's greatest strengths is helping people navigate life’s toughest moments. Whether it’s a personal tragedy, a major setback, or just feeling stuck in a rough patch, Nina has a unique way of reframing these experiences. She provides a simple, actionable framework for getting through the hard stuff with resilience and grace.If you’re in need of a little guidance to push through a difficult time, this conversation will give you tools to not only survive but come out stronger on the other side.In this episode, Coach Rebecca and Nina Sossamon Pogue talk about:Nina Sossamon Pogue's Elite Gymnastics Journey.Facing the Unexpected from College Gymnastics to Life

In today's PerformHappy podcast episode, I’m sitting down with mental performance coach Joey Hewitt. This is an episode you won’t want to miss if you're looking for simple, actionable mental skills that can completely shift your confidence and joy in sports. Joey breaks down easy strategies that helped him go from being a barely-making-varsity high school basketball player to a professional athlete. What I love about Joey’s approach is how practical and straightforward it is. These aren't complex, time-consuming routines; they're small changes you can make each day to rewire your brain and feel better on and off the field. I hope you take as much from this episode as I did—these skills can truly make a difference!In this episode, Coach Rebecca and Joey Hewitt talk about:From Fear to Pro, Joey Hewitt's Battle with Confidence and His Path to Success.How Shifting Your Mindset Can Overcome Physical and Mental Challenges.Strategies for Breaking Mental Blocks and Dealing with Slumps.Why You

In today’s podcast, I sit down with Maddi Leydin, a former international elite gymnast, NCAA superstar, and now a psychologist in training. Maddi shares her journey through the highs and challenges of elite gymnastics and her transition into a career focused on helping others.We dive into the critical topic of balance—something Maddi learned firsthand through her own experiences. She offers practical, actionable tips on mental preparation, performing under pressure, and most importantly, how to avoid burnout in high-level sports.If you’re looking to up your mental game, especially in a competitive environment, this episode is packed with insights that can help you build mental flexibility and stay at the top of your performance.In this episode, Coach Rebecca and Maddi Leydin talk about:Maddie's Elite and NCAA Career.How to Balance Sport and Life.Gifts and Challenges of Gymnastics The Top Mental Tools for Gymnastics Success.What’s Better to Have: Mental Flexibility or Mental Toughness?Coping with Anxiety

In the latest episode of the PerformHappy Podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Holly Johnson, a dedicated sport mom, coach, and member of our PerformHappy community. Holly shares her powerful journey of navigating mental blocks with her daughter, a tumbler and dancer. As a former athlete herself, Holly has experienced the highs and lows that come with guiding a young athlete through the challenges of sports. Over the years, she’s faced the frustration of mental blocks, made mistakes, and adjusted her approach, all while remaining a supportive coach and parent. Now, she’s on the other side of that journey, with valuable insights to share.If your child is struggling with long-term mental blocks or if you're a parent navigating these challenges, this episode is for you. Holly’s candid reflections offer practical advice on what your athlete really needs to achieve a breakthrough and how to adapt as confidence ebbs and flows throughout their career.I hope Holly’s story inspires you as much as it did m