Behind the Salute

PODCAST · sports

Behind the Salute

Behind the Salute is a podcast for the families, athletes, and coaches who know that gymnastics is about so much more than medals and routines.Hosted by Tracy Troxel & Danielle Mueller, we go beyond the skills to talk about confidence, resilience, discipline, mindset, and the life lessons built inside the gym. From competition nerves to parenting through pressure, this show pulls back the curtain on what’s really happening behind the salute.Because years from now, they may not remember every routine — but they’ll remember who they became because of it.

  1. 16

    She Coached Me First, Loved Me Always

    In this special Mother’s Day episode of Behind the Salute, we sit down with Tracy — a coach, a mom, and the woman behind the athlete — alongside her daughter Jade, who’s lived the unique experience of being coached by her own mom.Together, they open up about what it’s really like when the lines between parent and coach blur. The car rides home, the tough corrections, the unspoken pressure, and the moments that meant everything but were never said out loud.This isn’t just a story about gymnastics — it’s about trust, growth, sacrifice, and a bond that goes far beyond the gym floor.We talk about:• The challenges of balancing love and expectations• What hits different when your coach is also your mom• The moments that tested their relationship — and strengthened it• Lessons learned on both sides of the mat• And what they wish more parents, coaches, and athletes understoodWhether you’re a gymnast, a parent, or a coach, this episode will hit close to home.Because behind every salute… there’s a story. And for some, that story starts with mom.

  2. 15

    We Did It! Launch Party Recap

    We did it… and we’re still not over it!In this episode of Behind the Salute, we’re recapping our very first podcast launch party — the nerves, the chaos, the moments we’ll never forget, and the overwhelming support from our gymnastics community that made it all so special.

  3. 14

    Gym Drama and Cliques

    Gymnastics is all about teamwork… but let’s be honest—sometimes it doesn’t feel that way. In this episode, we’re diving into the real social side of the gym: cliques, friend groups, and the moments that can make athletes feel either completely included… or totally on the outside.We’re talking about why cliques form, how they impact confidence and performance, and what athletes, parents, and coaches can do to build a stronger, more supportive team culture. Because behind every routine is a team dynamic that matters more than we think.

  4. 13

    Post-Season Transition To Summer Training

    The season is over… now what?That post-season window can feel a little weird—less pressure, different energy, and a big shift heading into summer training. But this transition period is way more important than most people realize.In this episode, we’re breaking down what actually matters between seasons—and how to use this time to reset, refocus, and build a stronger foundation for what’s next.We talk about:Why the transition period isn’t just “downtime”How to mentally and physically reset after a long seasonTalking about summer camps Prep for your best summer training yetHow this period sets the tone for the entire next seasonBecause what you do right now?It matters more than you think.

  5. 12

    The Real Reason Gymnastics Kids Stand Out

    Gymnastics kids are different—and it’s not just because of talent.In this episode, we break down the real reason they stand out, from discipline and resilience to mindset and coachability. These are the traits built in the gym that show up everywhere else.

  6. 11

    Rec Is NOT Less Than Team

    There’s a narrative in gymnastics that needs to change—recreational is not “less than” team. It’s just different.In this episode, we break down why rec classes are the heartbeat of every program. From first cartwheels to building confidence, work ethic, and a love for movement, these athletes are developing just as much—just on a different path.We talk about:✨ Why rec gymnasts deserve just as much respect✨ The impact rec programs have on long-term athlete development✨ How coaches can elevate the rec experience✨ Shifting the mindset of “just rec” to something far more meaningful - sometimes it's just a choice & that is okay too!Whether your child is in rec, team, or somewhere in between—this episode will change the way you see their journey.

  7. 10

    Plateaus in Gymnastics

    You’re not regressing… you’re in a plateau.And it might be the most important phase of your gymnastics journey.In this episode, we unpack why progress slows down, what’s really happening behind the scenes, and how to turn frustration into your next breakthrough.

  8. 9

    Why Preschool Gymnastics Isn't Just Playtime

    It looks like playtime… but it’s actually shaping their future. 👀In this episode, we dive into why preschool gymnastics is one of the most powerful (and misunderstood) stages of development—and what kids are really learning every time they step into the gym.

  9. 8

    Effort, Attitude & Coachability

    In this episode, we’re diving into what actually matters in the gym: effort, attitude, and coachability. Because you can be talented, but if those three things aren’t there, your progress will stall.We’re talking about what coaches really notice, what frustrates them, and what makes an athlete rise above the rest.This is the stuff no one puts on the score sheet—but it changes everything.

  10. 7

    What's Your Vibe?

    Let’s clear something up—there is no “perfect” gymnast vibe.In this episode, we’re breaking down the different vibes that show up in the gym—from competitor to the social butterfly—and everything in between. Because gymnastics isn’t about fitting into one box… it’s about finding where you thrive.We’re talking athletes, parents, and coaches—and how each vibe brings value, shapes team culture, and impacts the experience.Your vibe isn’t wrong. But understanding it? That’s where growth happens.

  11. 6

    TNT Travel Meet 2027

    We've had a lot of questions on where our 2027 Travel Meet will be for next year & you'll find out HERE! Along with other information, tips, tricks & FUN!

  12. 5

    The Car Ride Home

    The car rides home with your gymnasts can literally make or break your gymnast. We have some personal experience & advice to help maneuver those challenging or difficult times to prolong your gymnasts' joy!

  13. 4

    The Why?

    How Tracy & Danielle got started in gymnastics & the reason we decided to start Behind the Salute!

  14. 3

    Behind the Salute Trailer

    Full episodes coming soon!

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Behind the Salute is a podcast for the families, athletes, and coaches who know that gymnastics is about so much more than medals and routines.Hosted by Tracy Troxel & Danielle Mueller, we go beyond the skills to talk about confidence, resilience, discipline, mindset, and the life lessons built inside the gym. From competition nerves to parenting through pressure, this show pulls back the curtain on what’s really happening behind the salute.Because years from now, they may not remember every routine — but they’ll remember who they became because of it.

HOSTED BY

Tracy Troxel; Danielle Mueller

CATEGORIES

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