Today on the PerformHappy Podcast, I’m thrilled to introduce you to one of our own – Coach Sam, also known around here as Samantha Buxbaum. Sam is a fearless athlete who has competed in gymnastics, diving, and now rock climbing, and she brings so much wisdom from her journey through high-risk sports.

In this episode, Sam shares her experience with fear, mental training, and how critical self-advocacy is for athletes in what we call “scary sports.” She also dives into the ABC Framework — a simple, effective way to help athletes manage fear and build resilience.

Whether you're an athlete, a parent, or a coach, this conversation is packed with practical advice on how to support kids through the mental challenges that come with pushing physical limits. Plus, you’ll get to know Coach Sam a little better and hear why we’re so lucky to have her on the Complete Performance Coaching team.

In this episode, Coach Rebecca and Samantha Buxbaum talk about:

Introduction to Coach Sam Buxbaum.

Sam's Journey in Sports and Gymnastics.

The Importance of Self-Love and Body Image.

Navigating Family Dynamics and Body Image.

Supporting Kids in Scary Sports.

Understanding Risk and Comfort Zones.

The ABC Framework for Athletes.

Finding Your True Self in Sports.

"You can't pour from an empty cup." - Samantha Buxbaum

Samantha Buxbaum’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samanthakbuxbaum/

Samantha Buxbaum’s Website: https://www.riseperformancellc.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAafgg6RG16dR4LFX-QIzU3ad9E5IiFpXd8Bpm3p_BBXEAycgVz_xhd0VyLnfYQ_aem_9UsUg8jPUThabGMKSEdcMw

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

If you’ve ever wondered how to help your child (or yourself) face fear and rise to the occasion, this episode is for you.

This week on the PerformHappy Podcast, I had the absolute pleasure of chatting with Jill Shulman—a former U.S. Marine Corps officer, positive psychology expert, and soon-to-be author of a book on the science of bravery. Yes, science! This wasn’t just a feel-good conversation… we dove deep into the research-backed strategies that help people become braver, happier, and more capable of achieving big dreams.

I couldn’t get enough of it. We totally geeked out over the psychology of courage, the connection between bravery and happiness, and what it actually takes to empower someone who’s feeling afraid.

If you’ve got a nervous athlete in your life—or if you’re navigating fear yourself—this one’s a must-listen.

In this episode, Coach Rebecca and Jill Shulman talk about:

The Science of Bravery.

Why Bravery Isn’t Fearless.

Escaping the Comfort Trap.

How to Boost Mental Health and Resilience.

Progress Over Perfection.

Find Your Brave Tribe How Honest Feedback and Support Unlock Your Potential.

The Power of Yet.

Bravery Beyond Sports.

"Taking away obstacles to make kids happy creates comfort, but science shows that the comfort trap actually hinders their ability to face challenges, which is key to true happiness and well-being.” – Jill Shulman

Jill Shulman’s Website and free PDF on Tips to Build Your Bravery: https://www.jillschulman.com/

Jill Shulman’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jillschulman/?hl=en

Jill Shulman’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JILLSCHULMAN

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

Pressure is part of the game in gymnastics, but how do the best in the world handle it? On this episode of the PerformHappy podcast, I sit down with three-time Olympian Shallon Olsen from Canada to talk about just that.

Shallon is known for her powerful vaulting, but what sets her apart is her ability to stay calm and focused—even under intense competition pressure. We dive into her mindset, how she keeps her nerves in check, and the strategies she’s developed to thrive when the stakes are high.

If you've ever struggled with performance anxiety or want to know how elite athletes manage pressure, this episode is for you!

In this episode, Coach Rebecca and Shallon Olsen talk about:

Shallon Olsen’s Top Tips on Thriving Under Pressure and Adapting to Challenges.

The Power of Supportive Coaching.

Achieving Greatness Through Teamwork, Consistency, and Mental Training.

Overcoming Injuries with Smart Training and Patience.

What It’s Like Competing Against Simone Biles and Focusing on Your Own Journey.

"Pressure is a privilege. It keeps me accountable for my goals and reminds me how lucky I am to represent Canada on the biggest stage. We don't have to do this—we get to.” – Shallon Olsen

Shallon Olsen’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shallon_olsen/

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