The Mental Health Playbook

Underdog Podcasts
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Health & Fitness
  • Updated Weekly

Welcome to Coach Trav's Mental Health Playbook: The Athlete's Journey to Self-Discovery, a podcast dedicated to empowering athletes to embrace their identity beyond the game. This show is a safe space where professional, collegiate, and high school athletes are encouraged to explore their purpose, share their stories, and take pride in who they are as individuals. Athletes are more than the "machines" they’re often portrayed as—they are people with unique gifts, passions, and aspirations beyond their sport. Join Coach Trav as he helps athletes navigate the highs and lows of their journey, pushing them to think outside the box and discover their authentic selves. Whether you’re an athlete, coach, parent, or fan, this podcast offers powerful conversations about mental health, resilience, and self-discovery in the world of sports. Together, we’ll explore the truth behind the statement: You are more than an athlete Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. 5h ago

    Coach, Fan, or Parent? How To Support Your Athlete

    Your athlete already has a coach. They already have fans. What they need from YOU is something different. Coach Trav breaks down how to avoid becoming an "additional coach" or "extra fan" to your own child.In this episode of The Mental Health Playbook, host Coach Trav (Mario Hines) opens with an MPP Spotlight on former Kentucky national champion and #2 overall NBA draft pick Michael Kidd-Gilchrist — whose journey from struggling with a stutter to founding an organization that changed state and federal legislation on speech therapy access is a powerful reminder that our hardest struggles can become our greatest purpose.From there, Coach Trav turns the episode over to parents. Inspired by a recent trip to a sports moms' conference and a reflective phone call with his own mom about his freshman move-in day, he unpacks one of the most common (and best-intentioned) mistakes parents make once their athlete heads off to college: blurring the line between being a parent, an additional coach, and an extra fan. Drawing on his own experience as a college athlete who struggled in silence, and his years coaching and training young athletes, Coach Trav lays out a practical playbook for building real, judgment-free communication with your child — before adversity hits, not after.Topics covered in this episode: MPP Spotlight: Michael Kidd-Gilchrist's journey from stuttering in silence to national stuttering advocacy Why "I'm good" often isn't the whole story when your athlete calls home The difference between being a parent, a coach, and a fan — and why athletes need only one of those from you How to create a judgment-free space for your child to open up about struggles, on and off the field Why the relationship you build before college matters more than the conversation you have during a crisis Real talk on the pressures of playing time, injuries, homesickness, and public scrutiny (with a LeBron James example) Coach Trav's Mental Health Playbook journal prompt of the dayWhether you're a sports parent gearing up to send your athlete off to college, a coach who works closely with families, or a former college athlete reflecting on your own experience, this episode offers real, actionable insight on how to show up for the people you love most — without accidentally becoming one more voice evaluating their performance.New episodes of The Mental Health Playbook drop weekly. Subscribe so you don't miss the next conversation on pressure, preparation, and the mental side of competing at a high level.00:00 – MPP Spotlight: Michael Kidd-Gilchrist's Stuttering Advocacy 01:37 – Welcome & Mental Health Check-In 03:22 – Reflecting on Freshman Move-In Day & the Sports Moms Conference 05:14 – The Recruiting Process vs. the Reality of Campus Life 06:48 – When an Athlete's Love for the Game Gets Challenged 08:35 – "I'm Good": Why Kids Hide What They're Really Feeling 10:37 – The Mistake of Becoming an "Additional Coach" 12:41 – Creating a Judgment-Free Space to Talk 14:41 – The Pressure of Being Great (LeBron James Example) 16:37 – Building the Relationship Before It's Needed 18:45 – Coach Trav's Own Story: Learning to Open Up 20:44 – What Parents Provide That Coaches and Trainers Can't 22:38 – The Playbook: Build the Space Before It's Needed 24:40 – Creating a Judgment-Free Zone in Tough Moments 27:06 – Handling the Comedown After Public Success 28:55 – Support, Not Another Coach or Fan 31:03 – Mental Health Playbook Prompt of the Day: Favorite Holiday Traditions 32:49 – Closing Playbook: Creating Space Before It's Needed 35:03 – Let Coaches Coach, Let Fans Be Fans 37:10 – Outro & Subscribe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  2. Aug 13

    How to Avoid the "Identity Trap" as an Athlete

    You're not just an athlete — you're a whole person. Coach Trav breaks down the "identity trap" and why every athlete needs to explore who they are beyond the game. In this episode of The Mental Health Playbook, host Coach Trav (Mario Hines) kicks things off with an MPP Spotlight on Indiana Fever guard and WNBA All-Star Kelsey Mitchell — a former #2 overall draft pick who's pursuing her doctorate degree while playing an MVP-caliber season. Her story sets up the theme of today's show: you don't have to choose between being an elite competitor and becoming a whole, well-rounded person. Coach Trav shares personal stories from his own journey — from being placed in tutoring before sports as a kid, to his freshman year at Howard University, to a recent trip to Nashville for a personnel and recruiting symposium with his team at WMA Sports. He gets vulnerable about the mistakes he made by staying in the "athlete box" during college, and lays out a practical playbook for avoiding identity foreclosure, protecting your self-worth from performance, and developing yourself with the same intensity you bring to your sport. Topics covered in this episode:  How the "athlete" label gets reinforced growing up — and why it can quietly become your whole identity  Identity foreclosure: what happens when performance becomes your self-worth  Practical steps to explore life outside your sport (clubs, internships, new relationships, new interests)  Why college is like a buffet — and the mistake of only "eating one dish"  Wholeness as protection: why knowing who you are outside of sports makes you more resilient to setbacks  Examples of athletes who became "the whole person" — Kelsey Mitchell and Magic Johnson  The Mental Health Playbook Quote of the Day, from Aristotle Whether you're a current student-athlete, a parent, a coach, or a former athlete still working through your own identity beyond the game, this episode offers real, actionable insight on building a life — and a sense of self — that performance can't take away. New episodes of The Mental Health Playbook drop weekly. Subscribe so you don't miss the next conversation on pressure, preparation, and the mental side of competing at a high level. 00:00 – MPP Spotlight: Indiana Fever guard Kelsey Mitchell  01:31 – Welcome & Mental Health Check-In  03:09 – The Power of Tutoring & Building a Strong Foundation  05:31 – WMA Sports Trip & Nashville Recruiting Symposium Recap  07:43 – Today's Playbook: Avoiding the Identity Trap 09:50 – Freshman Year at Howard & Identity Foreclosure  12:13 – When Performance Becomes Your Self-Worth  14:39 – Advice to His Younger Self: Explore More  16:51 – Discovering DC Culture & the Other 90% of Who You Are  18:54 – Taking a Chance: Becoming a College Radio Personality  21:02 – Asking the Right Questions About Identity  22:59 – Reflecting on Old Radio Show Footage  25:17 – Howard Homecoming & Gratitude  27:24 – What You Do When the Ball Isn't in Your Hands  29:14 – Becoming a Beginner Again  31:09 – Wholeness vs. Performance  33:01 – MPP Quote of the Day: Aristotle  34:40 – Closing Thoughts: Who Are You, Really?  36:23 – Magic Johnson: A Life That Grew Beyond the Sport  38:12 – Outro & Subscribe ABOUT THE SHOW  The Mental Health Playbook is a podcast hosted by Coach Trav (Mario Hines) that puts pressure on the preparation and setbacks in the strategy — unpacking the mental side of sports and life through conversations, personal stories, and spotlights on athletes, coaches, and leaders turning adversity into impact. Produced by ATP, brought to you by the Underdog Podcast Network. If this episode resonated with you, like the video, drop a comment letting us know how YOU'RE working on becoming more than "just an athlete," and subscribe for new episodes every week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  3. Aug 6

    How Howard & Detroit Shaped An NFL Free Agent

    In this episode, we explore the true meaning of mental toughness, the realities of being an NFL agent, and the importance of building a legacy beyond sports. Guest Edwin Piner shares his journey from Howard University to becoming a top sports agent and emphasizes the need for a culture shift in sports coaching and mentorship. 00:00 MPP Spotlight: Antoine Bethea 01:36 Introduction to Edwin Piner and his journey 02:13 The importance of legacy and community investment 04:11 Misconceptions about mental toughness in sports 06:12 Preparing athletes for the unknown and adversity 07:55 The culture of coaching and youth sports behavior 09:47 The role and responsibilities of a sports agent 12:12 The process of signing and representing athletes 13:47 Lessons learned from negotiations and client relationships 15:58 The impact of injuries and tough conversations 17:51 The influence of Howard University and HBCUs 19:54 The transition from athlete to lawyer and agent 22:08 The effects of NIL and regulation in college sports 24:09 The importance of mental health and resilience 25:55 Advice for young athletes and future professionals 28:09 Reflections on legacy and life after sports 30:03 Closing thoughts and quote of the day Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  4. Jul 31

    Building The Right Team

    In this episode, Coach Trav highlights the importance of building a strong team and surrounding yourself with the right people to leave a lasting legacy. He shares insights from sports legends and personal experiences to illustrate how collaboration, accountability, and purpose drive success. 00:00 Introduction: Building a Legacy Through Teamwork 02:09 Lessons from Hall of Fame: Brian Dawkins' Support System 04:08 The Role of Accountability and Honesty in Teams 06:55 Celebrating Wins and Supporting Each Other 09:49 The Importance of Surrounding Yourself with Diverse Talents 12:56 The Power of Healthy Conflict in Growth 15:58 Building Relationships Outside Your Immediate Circle 19:05 Reminding Each Other of Purpose and Goals 21:56 The Significance of Supporting Each Other in Adversity 24:49 Lessons from the 2004 Detroit Pistons 27:55 The Impact of Leadership and Role Clarity 31:01 Surrounding Yourself with the Right People for Success 34:05 The Quote: If You Want to Go Fast, Go Alone; If You Want to Go Far, Go Together 36:58 The Role of Purpose and Reminders in Leadership 40:12 Supporting Each Other Through Challenges and Successes 42:56 Final Thoughts: Building a Legacy with the Right Team Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  5. Jul 23

    Today Is Going To Be One of the Best Days of My Life

    Join us as we explore Kristy Love's journey of resilience, purpose, and the power of kindness. Discover how her experiences shaped her new book 'Today is Gonna Be One of the Best Days of My Life' and learn practical insights on living intentionally. 00:00 Introduction to Kristy Love and Her Mission 01:56 The Power of Resilience and Purpose 03:59 Music as a Tool for Emotional Expression 06:11 The Journey of Writing 'Today is Gonna Be One of the Best Days' 08:10 Living with Surrender and Faith 10:08 The Science of Habits and Thought Patterns 11:50 The Impact of Grief and Loss 13:47 The Role of Kindness and Legacy 16:11 Practical Advice for Living Fully 17:59 The Power of Self-Reflection and Self-Love 20:02 Closing Remarks and Call to Action Key Topics The impact of grief and how it inspired Kristy's book The importance of self-awareness and mindset shifts The role of music in emotional processing and creativity The significance of kindness and legacy in personal growth Neuroscience insights into habits and thought patterns Living intentionally and embracing each day as a gift Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  6. Jul 16

    Your Gift vs. Your Calling

    In this episode, Coach Trav explores the profound difference between gifts and calling, sharing inspiring stories of athletes and leaders like Serena Williams, Kobe Bryant, Warwick Dunn, and Tony Dungy. Discover how understanding your purpose can lead to lasting impact beyond talent. 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 01:26 The Power of Preparation and Readiness 02:02 Mental Health Check-In and Personal Reflection 03:42 Dealing with Challenges and Staying Focused 09:15 Understanding Gifts vs. Calling 12:30 Examples of Gifts and Their Impact 15:24 The Legacy of Fulfilled Calling 18:59 The Significance of Using Your Platform 22:19 Living in Your Calling Beyond Recognition 25:14 Stories of Warwick Dunn and Tony Dungey 28:07 Serena Williams’ Journey and Advocacy 32:34 Final Reflection and Call to Action Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  7. Jul 9

    Stand On Business, Stand For Something

    In this episode of the Mental Health Playbook, Coach Trav explores the importance of authenticity and the power of using one's platform to build a meaningful legacy. He highlights the stories of influential figures like Naomi Osaka, Muhammad Ali, Billie Jean King, and Myron Rolle, emphasizing that true legacy is not just about achievements but about standing for something greater. The conversation encourages listeners to reflect on their own values and the impact they can have on others, urging them to use their influence wisely and purposefully.00:00 The Power of Authenticity in Legacy07:14 Understanding Your Platform and Influence16:08 Lessons from Icons: Muhammad Ali and Billie Jean King27:08 Inspiring Stories: Myron Roll's Journey33:16 The Call to Action: What Do You Stand For? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  8. Jul 2

    Breaking Generational Cycles

    In this episode, Coach Trav highlights the legacy of NBA star Jalen Brown, emphasizing the importance of intellect alongside athleticism. The conversation transitions into the concept of generational cycles, exploring how patterns of behavior and beliefs are passed down through generations. Coach Trav identifies various negative cycles, such as absent fathers, poor communication, and financial instability, and discusses the importance of breaking these cycles to build a positive legacy for future generations. Coach Trav also discusses the importance of speaking life into ourselves and others, building confidence, and breaking generational cycles. He emphasizes the need to reflect on our past to identify both negative and positive legacies we inherit. Through real-life examples of individuals who have successfully broken negative cycles, he illustrates the power of choice and the impact of legacy. The conversation encourages listeners to consider what they will pass on to future generations and how they can actively shape their own narratives. 00:00 Introduction to Jalen Brown's Legacy 11:41 Understanding Generational Cycles 11:48 Defining Generational Curses 12:41 Identifying Negative Generational Cycles 23:34 Breaking the Cycle and Building Legacy 25:03 Speaking Life and Building Confidence 29:30 Breaking Generational Cycles 38:04 Real-Life Examples of Breaking Cycles 46:42 Reflecting on Legacy and Purpose Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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out of 5
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About

Welcome to Coach Trav's Mental Health Playbook: The Athlete's Journey to Self-Discovery, a podcast dedicated to empowering athletes to embrace their identity beyond the game. This show is a safe space where professional, collegiate, and high school athletes are encouraged to explore their purpose, share their stories, and take pride in who they are as individuals. Athletes are more than the "machines" they’re often portrayed as—they are people with unique gifts, passions, and aspirations beyond their sport. Join Coach Trav as he helps athletes navigate the highs and lows of their journey, pushing them to think outside the box and discover their authentic selves. Whether you’re an athlete, coach, parent, or fan, this podcast offers powerful conversations about mental health, resilience, and self-discovery in the world of sports. Together, we’ll explore the truth behind the statement: You are more than an athlete Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Information

  • Creator
    Underdog Podcasts
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    39
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Chris Horwedel
  • Show Website
    The Mental Health Playbook