122 episodes

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.

PerformHappy with Rebecca Smith Rebecca Smith

    • Sports
    • 4.9 • 27 Ratings

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.

    Positive Coaching at the Highest Level of Gymnastics with Cleo Washington

    Positive Coaching at the Highest Level of Gymnastics with Cleo Washington

    Today’s episode I'm thrilled to share with you a captivating gymnastics coaching journey, featuring none other than the remarkable Cleo Washington. I Cleo shares her experiences and expertise gained over 20 years in the gymnastics coaching world, where she has coached World Champion Morgan Hurd, national team member Kaliya Lincoln, and the promising Olympic hopeful, Nola Matthews. But beyond the accolades, Cleo's approach stands out for its emphasis on mental health and athlete wellbeing.

    In our conversation, Cleo shares her philosophy on finding the balance between nurturing compassion and fostering excellence. She explains how creating a supportive environment is paramount to unlocking the full potential of athletes and guiding them out of their comfort zones with positivity and empathy. We explore the intricacies of communication, resilience, and staying present amidst the pursuit of audacious goals.

    I couldn't help but feel inspired by her commitment to excellence with empathy. Her words serve as guidance for coaches and athletes alike, reminding us that true success goes beyond winning medals—it's about the meaningful impact we make on others' lives.

    In this episode, Coach Rebecca and Cleo Washington talk about:

    Cleo Washington’s Coaching Journey.

    Fostering Young Athletes' Voices.

    Balancing Big Goals

    Helping Gymnasts Overcome Fear and Anxiety.

    2 Key Elements to Build a Supportive Gymnastics Culture.

    Crafting Connections in Gymnastics Coach-Parent Communication.

    Trust, Transparency, and Triumph.

    Cleo Washington’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ohhclee/

    Cleo Washington’s Website: https://bestdarngymnastics.com/events/womentum/
    Introducing my upcoming book: "Parenting Through Mental Blocks: How to Get Your Happy Athlete Back." Packed with insights and strategies, this book is a game-changer for navigating the challenges of mental blocks in sports. 📘 Launch Date: February 29, 2024
    Be the first to access exclusive early bird pricing by joining our launch list. Don't miss out on this limited-time offer! Visit completeperformancecoaching.com/book to secure your spot on the list. 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

    • 48 min
    Dealing with Pressure with Olympic Gymnast Sam Oldham

    Dealing with Pressure with Olympic Gymnast Sam Oldham

    In today's PerformHappy podcast, join me in a conversation with Sam Oldham, a key member of the 2012 bronze medal-winning Great Britain Men's Gymnastics Team. Now a gymnastics coach and a new dad, Sam opens up about the intense pressure of chasing an Olympic dream, discussing the weight of expectations, imposter syndrome, and the emotional challenges he faced.

    Reflecting on pivotal moments and the toll on his mental health, Sam shares his journey, shedding light on the often-overlooked aspect of mental health in elite sports. As a coach and parent, Sam offers valuable insights for parents navigating the world of gymnastics, emphasizing communication and recognizing when to seek help.

    Don't miss Sam's practical tips on sustaining the Olympic dream without succumbing to pressure— from avoiding burnout to fostering a consistent senior career. Tune in for an episode that goes beyond the sport, providing inspiration and guidance for athletes and parents alike. 

    In this episode, Coach Rebecca and Sam Oldham talk about:

    Parental Support and Influence in a Gymnast's Career.

    Mastering the Art of Handling Pressure in Gymnastics.

    Overcoming Fear in Gymnastics Competitions.

    Setting Goals and Managing Expectations in Sports.

    Sam Oldham’s Career Struggles and Lessons Learned.

    The Impact of Childhood Trauma and ADHD on Athletic Performance.

    Advice for Overcoming Mental Blocks.

    Mental Preparation for Gymnastics Skills.

    Sam Oldham’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qXxJb2BOXfw

    Sam Oldham’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oldham93?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

    Sam Oldham's Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/the-sam-oldham-podcast/id1670206588
    Introducing my upcoming book: "Parenting Through Mental Blocks: How to Get Your Happy Athlete Back." Packed with insights and strategies, this book is a game-changer for navigating the challenges of mental blocks in sports. 📘 Launch Date: February 29, 2024
    Be the first to access exclusive early bird pricing by joining our launch list. Don't miss out on this limited-time offer! Visit completeperformancecoaching.com/book to secure your spot on the list. 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

    • 57 min
    Helping Keep Kids in Sports with D1 Gymnast Kirsten Medeiros

    Helping Keep Kids in Sports with D1 Gymnast Kirsten Medeiros

    Today on the Perform Happy Podcast join me for an inspiring chat with Kirsten Medeiros, a former D1 gymnast, coach, and dedicated mom. She's the force behind a nonprofit ensuring every child, regardless of financial challenges, can pursue their sports dreams.

    Kirsten shares wisdom from her gymnastics journey, discussing discipline, empathy, and valuable life lessons. As a gymnastics mom, she understands the hurdles families face. Her nonprofit dismantles financial barriers, fostering inclusivity and talent growth.

    Discover the story behind Kirsten's initiative – born out of a need for a charity dedicated to keeping kids in sports. It's not just about physical benefits but nurturing personal growth, resilience, and life skills through sports.

    Tune in to hear Kirsten's insights on creating stability for kids during crises and the inclusive approach of her initiative. A mission to make a difference in as many kids' lives as possible.

    In this episode, Coach Rebecca and Kirsten Medeiros talk about:

    Nurturing Passion, Overcoming Challenges, and Finding Empowerment in Sports.

    How to Navigate Emotional Struggles, Overcome Financial Barriers, and Foster Resilience.

    What is the Lineup Foundation Charity?

    Balancing being a Sports Parent with Self-Care, Embracing Failure and Seeking Support.

    The Lineup Foundation Website: https://www.thelineupfoundation.com/

    The Lineup Foundation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lineupfoundation
    Introducing my upcoming book: "Parenting Through Mental Blocks: How to Get Your Happy Athlete Back." Packed with insights and strategies, this book is a game-changer for navigating the challenges of mental blocks in sports. 📘 Launch Date: February 29, 2024
    Be the first to access exclusive early bird pricing by joining our launch list. Don't miss out on this limited-time offer! Visit completeperformancecoaching.com/book to secure your spot on the list. 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

    • 31 min
    Coaching Happy Olympians with Canadian National Team Coach David Kikuchi

    Coaching Happy Olympians with Canadian National Team Coach David Kikuchi

    In today's episode of the PerformHappy podcast, I am thrilled to bring you an exclusive interview with the remarkable Canadian National Team Coach, David Kikuchi. A two-time Olympian himself and the guiding force behind Ellie Black's journey to three Olympics, Kikuchi is widely recognized as the "Lord of the Rings" and "The King of Consistency." Join me as we delve into his extraordinary career and explore the invaluable lessons he shares on achieving greatness in sports.

    David Kikuchi's achievements in the world of gymnastics are nothing short of legendary. Hitting 49 out of 49 successful routines in five World Championships, Kikuchi has not only proven his prowess as an athlete but has also carved a niche for himself as a distinguished coach. His dedication to the sport is evident through the numerous accolades earned by his athletes, most notably with Ellie Black's impressive Olympic journey.

    What sets this episode apart is the insight it provides into Kikuchi's coaching philosophy. He exemplifies that greatness is not achieved through strict discipline alone but through cultivating a culture of patience, love, and kindness. Aspiring athletes and coaches alike will find invaluable lessons on how to foster a positive and supportive environment, ultimately leading to success in and out of the gym.

    David Kikuchi's journey and insights serve as a beacon of inspiration for anyone striving to excel in gymnastics pursuits. Join us on this enlightening exploration of the mind and heart of a coach who has not only shaped champions but has done so with a spirit of unwavering positivity.

    In this episode, Coach Rebecca and David Kikuchi talk about:

    Mastering Consistency and Trust in Gymnastics.
    David’s Top Tips on Trust, Competitions, and Mental Resilience.
    The Patient Approach to Coaching Gymnastics.
    Tailoring Coaching Approaches for Gymnast Goals.
    Overcoming Mental Blocks in Gymnastics.
    How Olympians Ellie Black Navigated Tricky Gymnastics Skills and Mental Blocks.
    Strategies for Coaching Gymnasts with Mental Blocks.
    Introducing my upcoming book: "Parenting Through Mental Blocks: How to Get Your Happy Athlete Back." Packed with insights and strategies, this book is a game-changer for navigating the challenges of mental blocks in sports. 📘 Launch Date: February 29, 2024
    Be the first to access exclusive early bird pricing by joining our launch list. Don't miss out on this limited-time offer! Visit completeperformancecoaching.com/book to secure your spot on the list. 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

    • 46 min
    Raising Confident Humans - A Conversation with Gymnastics Coach Peterson Pierre

    Raising Confident Humans - A Conversation with Gymnastics Coach Peterson Pierre

    In today's PerformHappy Podcast episode, we take a different approach in anticipation of the upcoming release of my book, "Parenting Through Mental Blocks." Rather than hosting, I had the privilege of being the interviewee, engaging in a focused conversation with gymnastics coach Peterson Pierre on his podcast, Heated Conversations.

    With over a decade and a half of coaching experience, Peterson has worked with athletes ranging from young adolescents to Division 1 collegiate programs. As a former two-sport Division 3 athlete himself, his passion for people shines through in his commitment to helping individuals achieve their life goals by drawing on the lessons learned from sports. Owner of Heat Performance, Peterson's mission is to teach and enhance athletes' overall athleticism through diverse training methods, fostering improvement in both sports and life. His purpose is to walk alongside athletes, serving as an example so they can lead the current generation and those to come.

    We cover a range of topics, including mental blocks, my personal sports background, and practical tips for both parents and coaches. The episode aims to give you a practical look at what you can expect from the strategies discussed in my book, which is being released on February 29th.

    For those seeking more information and the opportunity to pre-order the book, please visit:

    https://completeperformancecoaching.com/book

    Tune in for a balanced discussion that delves into practical solutions for navigating the challenges associated with mental blocks.

    In this episode, Coach Rebecca and Peterson Pierre talk about:

    How to Navigate Gymnastics and Parenting.

    Understanding Athletes' Emotions, Shift from Fear to Solutions.

    Positive Discipline in Gymnastics Coaching. Encouraging Ownership and Embracing Failure.

    Coaching Gymnastics with Fun and Productivity.

    Tips on How to Communicate with and Empowering Athletes.

    The Dangers of Labelling Athletes with “Potential”.

    Simple 3-Step Strategy for Mental Block Success.

    The Secret to Overcoming Self-Doubt.

    Mental Training for Athletes.

    How to Master a Growth Mindset.

    Peterson Pierre’s Website:
    Introducing my upcoming book: "Parenting Through Mental Blocks: How to Get Your Happy Athlete Back." Packed with insights and strategies, this book is a game-changer for navigating the challenges of mental blocks in sports. 📘 Launch Date: February 29, 2024
    Be the first to access exclusive early bird pricing by joining our launch list. Don't miss out on this limited-time offer! Visit completeperformancecoaching.com/book to secure your spot on the list. 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

    • 1 hr 12 min
    Dreaming Big with Olympian Danusia Francis-Reed

    Dreaming Big with Olympian Danusia Francis-Reed

    Welcome back to another episode of PerformHappy! Today, I am thrilled to introduce you to an extraordinary individual whose journey embodies the essence of dreaming big and achieving even bigger. In this episode, I have the honor of sitting down with none other than Danusia Francis-Reed – an Olympian whose remarkable story will undoubtedly inspire you to reach for the stars.

    Danusia Francis-Reed's accolades speak volumes about her prowess in the world of gymnastics. A former UCLA superstar, she graced the Olympic stage, representing not just one, but two different countries. Her journey is a testament to the resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment required to pursue one's dreams relentlessly.

    Throughout our conversation, Danusia will impart invaluable insights into the transformative power of setting a vision and cultivating ambitious goals. From her experiences as an elite athlete to navigating the intricate dynamics of international competition, Danusia's wisdom is bound to resonate with each and every one of you, regardless of your pursuits.

    We delve into the intricacies of visualization, goal-setting, and the unwavering belief in oneself – elements that have been instrumental in Danusia's journey towards excellence. Through her personal anecdotes and profound reflections, listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the mindset required to overcome obstacles and carve out a path towards success, both on and off the mat.

    In this episode, Coach Rebecca and Danusia Francis-Reed talk about:

    How a Young Gymnast Quickly Became an Olympian The Inspiring Journey of Danusia Francis-Reed.

    Navigating Highs and Lows: Parental Support in Gymnastics Journeys.

    Nurturing Personal Growth in Gymnastics.

    Vision Boards, Affirmations, and Goal Setting.

    Resilience and Self-Compassion for Gymnasts.

    Overcoming Obstacles to Reach Olympic Dreams.

    Tips for Conquering Mental Blocks from Danusia Francis-Reed

    Danusia Francis-Reed’s Website: https://danusiafrancis.co.uk/

    Danusia Francis-Reed’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danusiafrancis
    Introducing my upcoming book: "Parenting Through Mental Blocks: How to Get Your Happy Athlete Back." Packed with insights and strategies, this book is a game-changer for navigating the challenges of mental blocks in sports. 📘 Launch Date: February 29, 2024
    Be the first to access exclusive early bird pricing by joining our launch list. Don't miss out on this limited-time offer! Visit completeperformancecoaching.com/book to secure your spot on the list. 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

    • 47 min

Customer Reviews

4.9 out of 5
27 Ratings

27 Ratings

SNGFL ,

A must for competitive athletes

Best recommendation I’ve ever gotten for my athletes. We’re only 3 in and it is such eye opening info for both myself as a supporting role and for helping my kids to understand the mind connection in their training and performance. So grateful for this!

AndrewMo123 ,

Andrew M

Rebecca’s podcast is fantastic! She has diverse guests and each episode is full of positive energy.

The Scholar Coach ,

Solid Insights for Parents

I was recently a guest on Rebecca's posdcast and it was such a wonderful experience. She is a great hostess, thoroughly prepared and knowledgable on the topics addressed as well as able to add great insights. I was blown away by how fast our time together FLEW by!

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