In this episode of the Imperfect Cheerleader Podcast, host Jasmine Neely welcomes mental performance coach Gary Chupik, who specializes in helping athletes unlock their potential. Gary discusses the key traits that make someone a great candidate for coaching, emphasizing the importance of a growth mindset and the willingness to experiment with oneself. He shares insights into the common mental blocks athletes face, particularly around confidence, and how these can be addressed through targeted coaching sessions. Gary highlights that confidence is crucial for performance and explains how athletes can regain it by focusing on their strengths and preparing adequately for their performances.

The conversation delves into the emotional aspects of performance, with Gary sharing a transformative story about a young hockey player who regained his confidence by focusing on his unique strengths. He emphasizes the importance of self-belief and how it can be nurtured through preparation and positive reinforcement. The episode also touches on the significance of visualization techniques in mental performance, encouraging athletes to engage all their senses to enhance their confidence and performance. Gary concludes by offering a free mental performance assessment to listeners, showcasing his commitment to helping others achieve their best.

Follow Gary @elitemindset on Instagram

• Visit https://bit.ly/49JgDsJ to get your mental performance assessment. Use discount code: ELITE100

Follow @theprofessionalcheerleader on Instagram and @thepro.cheerleader on TikTok for more pro dance topics

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Mental Performance Coaching

00:40 Identifying Candidates for Coaching

01:28 Understanding Mental Blocks and Confidence

03:35 The Nature of Confidence Loss

05:06 Building Confidence Through Preparation

06:06 Transformation Stories in Coaching

09:47 The Power of Focusing on Strengths

11:06 Belief and Self-Confidence

12:18 The Importance of External Belief

14:31 The Impact of Positive Reinforcement

16:16 Fueling Motivation: Positive vs. Negative

17:17 Transitioning from Pastoral Work to Coaching

19:48 Challenges of Being a Pastor

22:32 Reflections on Pastoral Work

23:57 The Smartness of Quitting

24:37 The Art of Quitting: Knowing When to Let Go

29:30 Mental Performance: Visualization Techniques for Success

34:30 Understanding Emotional Expression: Men vs. Women

37:30 Traits of High Performers: Resilience and Focus

40:13 Gary's New Initiative: The Mental Performance Assessment

Jada Samuel is an author, marketing-communications professional and the founder of a girl’s nonprofit mentoring organization called iShapeMe. In 2023, she became the oldest and only the 4th Black woman to win the title of Miss South Carolina. Now, she’s a pageant coach and professional speaker sharing messages about confidence, mentorship and sisterhood.

In this engaging conversation, Miss South Carolina, Jada Samuel, shares her insights on fashion, confidence, and the journey of pageantry. She discusses the importance of authenticity, the challenges of public speaking, and the impact of vulnerability in a world that often demands perfection. Jada emphasizes the significance of surrounding oneself with supportive individuals and the necessity of self-reflection and growth through adversity. Her journey through multiple pageant competitions highlights the importance of persistence and trusting the process, ultimately leading to her success. In this engaging conversation, Jada Samuel shares her journey through pageantry, self-care, and the importance of authenticity. She discusses the emotional challenges faced during her reign as Miss South Carolina, the significance of mentorship, and the evolving landscape of pageantry. Jada emphasizes the need for self-acceptance and the value of genuine connections, while also addressing the practical aspects of competing, including costs and preparation. Her insights into personal growth, community service, and inspiring the next generation through her nonprofit and children's book highlight her commitment to empowering young women.

Find Jada here:

https://www.instagram.com/jadamsamuel/ https://www.facebook.com/JadaMSamuel/ https://www.tiktok.com/@jadamsamuelhttps://www.instagram.com/positionedtowin/ https://www.positionedtowin.co/links Find more about pro dance @theprofessionalcheerleader on Instagram

I caught up with Look Love Beauty Babes Sabrina and Charisse! We talk all things pro cheer/pro dance. My past experience as an NFL Cheerleader with the Panthers' Topcats and my current role as an NBA dancer with the Honeybees.

We also get into Taylor Swift and my personal research project on why she's such a big superstar.

This episode was so fun! Go check them out here at Look Love Beauty

Make sure to follow me on Instagram @theprofessionalcheerleader and on TikTok @thepro.cheerleader.