Skyler Smith: Breaststroke, Confidence & Racing In-Season Ep. 283

Skyler Smith is swimming some of the best races of her career — right now.

In this episode of Social Kick, the UNC senior and U.S. National Team pool member opens up about finding momentum, building confidence, and racing fast without waiting for the perfect taper. From dropping personal bests at the Pro Swim Series to navigating NCAA pressure and setbacks, Skyler shares what it actually takes to stay dangerous across a long season.

This conversation goes deep into breaststroke — how it works for her body, why technique myths persist, and what matters most when racing at a high level. Skyler also reflects on confidence, consistency, and learning to trust the process after meets don’t go as planned.

Along the way, we get plenty of personality: rapid-fire questions, training war stories, pop culture, and what’s next as she balances elite swimming with grad school and life beyond the pool.

If you’re a swimmer, coach, or fan who wants to understand how elite athletes think, adapt, and keep progressing, this episode delivers.