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/

Struggling with fears, mental blocks, or confidence? Click the link to get a FREE session with one of our experts to tackle your challenges together!

completeperformance.as.me/consult

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

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, leadership, and genuine joy in the journey. There’s so much wisdom here on what it takes to lead, to nurture young athletes, and to create an environment where they can thrive.

So, grab a notebook, maybe listen twice—this episode is packed with insights that you won’t want to miss! Enjoy!

In this episode, Coach Rebecca and Valorie Kondos Field talk about:

Redefining Success in Gymnastics.

How to Become an Effective Leader.

Growth Mindset, Respect, and Humble Leadership Tips.

Building Trust Through Conversations.

Balancing Discipline and Fun in Gymnastics.

The Impact of Parental Involvement in Sport.

The Role of Failure in Growth.

How to Resolve Conflicts.

“When athletes know you care about them as a person, not just as a means to boost your own ego, they become more invested and start taking ownership of their journey."– Valorie Kondos Field

Valorie Kondos Field’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/missvalkondos/

Valorie Kondos Field’s Website: https://www.officialmissval.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaawg1W1HxmViEOOolxzqDQTAq7l1jQtEi4ThMnO-x6C9hSxQy3JDabQTbQ_aem_MnkWrWWBPsLyD8QP0y1yqw

Struggling with fears, mental blocks, or confidence? Click the link to get a FREE session with one of our experts to tackle your challenges together!

completeperformance.as.me/consult

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

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 about facing fear, embracing creativity, and aiming higher.

In this episode, Coach Rebecca and Heath Thorpe talk about:

From Dance to Dedication, Heath Thorpe’s Journey to Gymnastics Greatness.

Overcoming Setbacks and Owning His Identity.

Building a Support System and Prioritizing Well-Being in Elite Gymnastics.

The Road to the Olympics.

Finding Silver Linings.

Heath Thorpe’s Mental Strategies for Overcoming Challenges in Gymnastics.

What’s Next for Heath Thorpe?

“The more you're loving what you do, the better you perform."– Heath Thorpe

Heath Thorpe’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heaththorpe/

Heath Thorpe’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HeathThorpe00

Struggling with fears, mental blocks, or confidence? Click the link to get a FREE session with one of our experts to tackle your challenges together!

completeperformance.as.me/consult

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