Performhappy With Rebecca Smith

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

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 ab

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 tak

This week on the PerformHappy Podcast, I had the privilege of chatting with someone who truly embodies resilience and passion for gymnastics: Chellsie Memmel. As a world champion, Olympian, and now an influential leader in USA Gymnastics, Chellsie has worn many hats in the sport, and she’s not done yet!In our conversation, Chellsie shared her remarkable journey—one that includes her inspiring comeback to gymnastics in her 30s (proving it’s never too late to pursue your passion), her unique perspective on the selection process from the other side of the table, and the legacy she’s working to build for the next generation of gymnasts, including her own kids.We also dove into the mental challenges gymnasts face, like making peace with those "scary vaults," and she shared tips and strategies that will resonate with gymnasts and parents alike.If you’re looking for inspiration from someone who’s truly paving the way for future champions, this episode is a must-listen. In this episode, Coach Rebecca and Ch

Have you ever wondered what happens after the medals are won and the records are broken? On this week’s PerformHappy podcast, I had the privilege of sitting down with Theresa Kulikowski-Gillespie, a true legend in gymnastics and an inspiration beyond the sport.Theresa’s resume is remarkable: an Olympic alternate for the iconic 1996 Games, a two-time NCAA champion, a world bronze medalist, and a record-setting athlete at the University of Utah. But her story goes far beyond her accolades.In our conversation, Theresa shares the challenges of navigating the intense world of 1990s elite gymnastics and how she redefined success after her competitive career. She speaks with deep wisdom about the importance of self-trust, mindfulness, and resilience. Her journey is a reminder that perfectionism doesn’t have to be the driving force in our lives and that self-compassion can be a powerful tool for healing and growth.If you’re struggling with perfectionism or looking for ways to embrace balance and well-being, this epis

On the latest episode of the PerformHappy podcast, I had the privilege of chatting with Soraya Rostocil, a gymnast I’ve worked with in a mental training capacity for over five years. Watching her journey unfold has been nothing short of extraordinary.Soraya's story is one that so many gymnasts can relate to—three years stuck at Level 7, grappling with mental blocks, and questioning whether it was time to walk away from the sport she loved. But instead of giving up, Soraya leaned into the mental training process, faced her fears, and learned to embrace challenges with courage and joy.Fast forward to today, and Soraya is preparing to take her next big step: college gymnastics. Her path wasn’t typical, but that’s what makes her story so inspiring. She’s living proof that when you train your mind, stay persistent, and keep the love for your sport alive, your dreams can take shape in ways you never expected.This episode is a must-listen for any athlete—or parent—who feels like the road is too tough. Soraya’s

This week on the PerformHappy podcast, I had the privilege of talking with the incredible Hannah Scheible, one of Oklahoma State University’s standout gymnasts. Hannah’s reputation for consistency and success is undeniable, but what truly fascinated me was uncovering the mindset that drives her achievements.Despite her impressive track record, Hannah shared that her journey hasn’t been without challenges. She’s faced mental blocks and moments of fear—just like so many athletes do. What sets her apart is how she’s learned to navigate those obstacles and come out stronger on the other side.In our conversation, Hannah revealed the training mentality that keeps her grounded, the strategies she’s relied on to push through tough times, and the mindset that fuels her drive toward achieving big collegiate goals. She also talked about how she views challenges not as setbacks, but as opportunities to grow and become even more resilient.Hannah’s story is a powerful reminder that self-trust isn’t built by avoiding fear o

On this week’s PerformHappy Podcast, I’m thrilled to welcome a true legend in the world of gymnastics coaching, Mark Williams. As the head coach of the Oklahoma men’s gymnastics team for over two decades, Mark has built a legacy that includes nine national championships, countless All-Americans, and multiple Olympians.But what sets Mark apart isn’t just the medals and titles—it’s his ability to cultivate character, resilience, and trust within his athletes.In our conversation, Mark shares his approach to high-pressure moments, like preparing athletes for the Olympics, and the importance of creating a culture where athletes feel valued beyond their performance. He emphasizes that building great athletes and great people go hand in hand, and winning doesn’t have to come at the expense of integrity and connection.Whether you’re a coach, parent, or athlete, this episode is packed with wisdom on balancing high expectations with humanity. Mark’s insights show us that true success is about more than trophies—it’s ab

In this week's PerformHappy Podcast episode, I had the pleasure of talking with Kyrstin Johnson, whose gymnastics journey is nothing short of inspiring. From starting gymnastics later than most to thriving at an HBCU, Kyrstin's story is a testament to resilience, passion, and mental toughness.But her journey wasn't without challenges. When her team was unexpectedly cut, Kyrstin faced one of the toughest moments in her athletic career. Instead of letting this setback define her, she used it as an opportunity to grow stronger, both mentally and physically.In our conversation, Kyrstin opens up about overcoming mental blocks, staying confident under pressure, and finding her way back to a new team with even more determination and love for the sport.Whether you're an athlete, coach, or parent, this episode is packed with powerful insights on turning adversity into strength. Kyrstin's story reminds us all that the biggest challenges can lead to the most meaningful growth.In this episode, Co

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