PerformHappy with Rebecca Smith

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, Coach Rebecca and Kyrstin Johnson talk about:

From Late Start to Record-Breaking Champion Kyrstin Johnson’s Trailblazing College Gymnastics Journey.

The Power of Supportive Coaching and the Impact of Fun and Pressure-Free Growth.

Advice for Handling Injury and College Recruiting Stress in High School Gymnastics.

Key Lessons from Mental Coaching for Building Confidence and Self-Belief in Gymnastics.

How to Advocate for Yourself in Gymnastics.

Overcoming Mental Blocks and Regaining Control through Communication and Patience.

From Scholarship to Shock, How a Program Cut Changed Everything.

"Trust me, there are so many gymnasts facing the same struggles as you. You’re not alone, and your challenges are more common than you think." – Kyrstin Johnson

Kyrstin Johnson’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kyrstin_johnson/

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: [email protected]

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

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 Aspirations with Real Opportunities in College Recruiting.

Understanding NCAA Divisions and Recruiting Strategies.

Finding New Paths to College Gymnastics After Setbacks and Injuries.

The Role of Academics in College Gymnastics Recruiting.

How Mental Blocks Can Impact Your Recruiting Journey and 3 Game-Changing Tips to Overcome Them.

Managing Comparison and Social Media Pressure the Life Skills Every Athlete Needs for Success.

"Your scores are your facts, your videos are your proof, and your consistency is your resume. College coaches will see it all—so every detail counts." – Jill Hicks

Jill Hicks’s Website: https://jhicksconsulting.com/inquiry-form-gymnastics

Jill Hicks’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jhicksconsulting

Jill Hicks’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jillhicks4537

Jill Hicks’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jhicksconsulting/

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: [email protected]

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

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 this episode, Coach Rebecca and Carly Dockendorf talk about:

From Athlete to Coach: Carly Dockendorf’s Journey Through Fear to Leadership.

Break Through Mental Blocks with Carly Dockendorf’s Game-Changing Advice.

Leading with Trust and Building a Strong Team Culture for Lasting Success.

How to Create Confident Performers on Beam.

Tips for Athletes Facing Fear Who Dream of Competing in College.

Finding the Balance Between Compassion and High Standards in Coaching.

3 Key Traits Carly Dockendorf Looks for in Young Gymnasts with College Dreams.

How Parents Can Help Their Gymnast Reach Their College Dreams.

“Nobody chooses to have a mental block.” – Carly Dockendorf

Carly Dockendorf’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cardockendorf/

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: [email protected]

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

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, and coaches to navigate this tricky topic with confidence and compassion. It felt like a mini-masterclass, and I know you’ll walk away with practical tools you can use immediately.

Whether you’re an athlete looking for tips to share with your coach, a parent wanting to understand what makes a great coach, or a coach eager to grow your toolkit, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration.

In this episode, Coach Rebecca and Morgan Mannix talk about:

From Playful Beginnings to Technical Brilliance, Inside Morgan Mannix’s Coaching Philosophy.

Building Confidence Through Small Wins: Why Success Fuels Gymnastics Growth.

The Power of Fun and Support in Gymnastics.

Morgan Mannix’s Step-by-Step Approach to Mental Blocks.

Competitive Recreational Team: A Low-Pressure Pathway to Gymnastics Growth.

How to Empower Struggling Gymnasts by Focusing on Solutions Not the Problem.

The One Question You Should Never Ask a Gymnast with a Mental Block.

Creating a Supportive Coaching Environment.

“Start from where they are, just look for a little bit of progress, you can always find it. My mantra: Always make them feel successful.”– Morgan Mannix

Morgan Mannix’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upside_down_2_clown/

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: [email protected]

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

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 leave you inspired to keep pushing through the tough moments, knowing that the best is yet to come.

In this episode, Coach Rebecca and Carissa Clay talk about:

Finding Identity Beyond Sport.

Transitioning from Club to College Gymnastics.

Dealing with Pressure and Self-Doubt.

From Perfection to Positivity, How Being a Light Transforms Team Energy.

Overcoming the Twisties.

Role of a Team Player and Setting a Positive Example.

Tips for Parents Supporting Imperfect Gymnasts.

Embracing Failure and Learning from Mistakes.

“Gymnastics isn’t one-size-fits-all, and perfection looks different for everyone in the sport.”– Carissa Clay

Carissa Clay’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carissa.clay/

Carissa Clay’s TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@carissaclay

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: [email protected]

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

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 on the process, rather than perfection, helps his athletes thrive—not just in competition but in life. Whether you’re a coach looking to inspire your athletes, a parent navigating the ups and downs of youth sports, or an athlete yourself, you’re going to walk away with actionable tips and a renewed sense of what’s possible.

Tune in to hear Yandy’s unique perspective and take your gymnastics journey to the next level. You won’t want to miss this one!

In this episode, Coach Rebecca and Yandy Urquila talk about:

Who is Coach Yandis Urquila?

How Yandis Innovative Coaching Earned Club of the Year Recognition.

The Winning Formula for High-Scoring Success.

Growth Mindset and Positive Reinforcement Strategies for Coaching.

Tips for Class Management.

Handling Challenges and Maintaining Positivity.

“Coaching isn’t just a job—it’s a lifestyle, like waking up every morning to join your family and do what you love.”– Yandy Urquila

Yandy Urquila’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bestcoachever55/

Yandy Urquilas Leotards: https://www.instagram.com/p/DDMcwcURmrk/

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: [email protected]

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

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 College Recruitment.

The Power of Mindset Turning Injuries into Comebacks.

Building Support Through Communication to Prevent Injuries.

Common Injuries and Prevention Strategies.

Importance of Rest and Nutrition.

Returning to Sport After Injury.

Shifting Gymnastics Culture to Empower Healthy Minds and Bodies.

“The fear of re-injury, 100% leads to re-injury.”– Dr. Brittany Lapinski

Dr. Brittany Lapinski’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.gymnastics.pt/

Dr. Brittany Lapinski’s Email: [email protected]

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: [email protected]

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

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 Confidence Through Change and Challenges.

The Power of Faith, Support, and Self-Belief.

How Shifting Goals Lead to Greater Fulfillment.

Handling Disappointment and Injuries.

The Power of Sports Psychology in Athletics.

Progress Through Reflection, Journaling, and Staying Present.

“It's okay to have a picture of what success looks like, and it's okay for that to change."– Sam Phillips

Sam Phillips’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sam_phill/

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: [email protected]

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

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 athlete!) discover new ways to stand out and stay confident during this overwhelming journey. 

Whether your kids are deep in the recruiting process or just starting their athletic journey, this episode is packed with insights to help you navigate the path to their dream school. 

Tune in now and start uncovering the potential that goes beyond the field, court, or gym! 

In this episode, Coach Rebecca and Rachel Collins talk about:

Who is College Prep Consulting?

Identifying and Developing Your Point of Excellence.

How Initiative and Creativity Can Open Doors to Your Dream School.

Choosing the Right College.

Turning Unconventional Passions into College Application Gold.

Helping Students Without Obvious Passions.

Cultivating Curiosity, How Questions and Exploration Lead to Success.

“It's all about finding what you love and then using that to realize your dreams."– Rachel Collins

Rachel Collins’s Website: https://collegeprepconsulting.com/

Rachel Collins’s Phone Number: 415-385-7778

Rachel Collins’s Email: [email protected]

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: [email protected]

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

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 a young athlete, this episode is full of takeaways on building a positive, sustainable mindset in sports. Give it a listen and discover how to bring a more holistic approach to your training or coaching journey!

In this episode, Coach Rebecca and Michelle Hong talk about:

Michelle's Skating Journey.

How to Create a Positive Sport Environment.

Addressing Negative Behaviors in Sport. 

Tips for Embracing the Spotlight and Handling Mistakes.

Rebuilding Confidence After Injuries.

Unlocking Athlete's Potential with Coach Michelle's Online Academy.

Self-Care for Success: Key Questions to Break Through Plateaus.

“It’s okay to have tough moments—what matters is building the tools to navigate them so you can keep growing as an athlete and a person."– Michelle Hong

Michelle Hong’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachmichellehong/

Michelle Hong’s TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@coachmichelle

Michelle Hong’s Website: https://coachmichelleacademy.thinkific.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: [email protected]

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