Breaking Through Fear and Perfectionism in Youth Sports, with Rebecca Smith. Why do some kids freeze in sports while others thrive under pressure?

Breaking Through Fear and Perfectionism in Youth Sports. In this episode, I sit down with Rebecca Smith, founder of Complete Performance Coaching and Perform Happy, to discuss the hidden mental struggles of young athletes. A former gymnast who battled fear and self-doubt, Rebecca now helps athletes break through mental blocks, manage pressure, and regain confidence in their sport.

We cover:

Why fear—not lack of effort—is often the real reason kids struggle
How parents may be adding pressure without realizing it
The science behind fight, flight, or freeze many athletes experience in sports
What real mental toughness looks like—and why it’s not just about pushing through
Actionable strategies for parents to help kids build confidence and overcome fear

Chapters:

04:42 Understanding Fear and Mental Blocks in Young Athletes
07:22 The Role of Parents in Athlete Performance
11:31 Mindset Matters: Fixed vs. Growth Mindset
14:45 Overcoming Fear and Anxiety in Sports
18:32 The Perfectionist Athlete: Causes and Solutions
22:49 Recognizing Negative Patterns in Young Athletes
26:55 The Importance of Sleep for Performance
29:40 Pre-Performance Routines: Finding What Works
32:32 In-Game Self-Talk and Recovery Techniques
38:37 Redefining Mental Toughness

If your child has ever hesitated, second-guessed themselves, or lost their love for their sport, this conversation is a must-listen.