The Mental Health Playbook

Everybody's got an opinion. Not everybody gets a vote. Coach Trav breaks down how athletes can stay confident when the criticism gets loud — and how to tell useful feedback from noise you need to release. In this episode of The Mental Health Playbook, host Coach Trav opens with an MPP Spotlight on legendary Georgetown coach John Thompson Jr., who in 1982 pushed back on being called the first Black...

In this episode of The Mental Health Playbook, host Coach Trav opens with an MPP Spotlight on Team USA women's basketball and their FIBA World Cup gold medal run — a masterclass in veterans and young stars embracing different roles for one shared goal. He follows it with a personal check-in about a surprising new hobby that's been helping him recenter (and a long-overdue apology to Stanley from th...

Your coach's reassurance is a bonus — not a requirement. Coach Trav breaks down the Vince Young documentary, his own ugly experience with a coaching staff that turned on him, and what every athlete needs to understand about confidence that has to travel with you. In this episode of The Mental Health Playbook, host Coach Trav opens with an MPP Spotlight on Mike Tyson — not for his power in the ring...

You never get a two-weeks notice for your opportunity. Coach Trav breaks down why the real test of faith isn't waiting for the door to open — it's staying disciplined while it's still closed.#StayReady #Athlete #MentalHealthIn this episode of The Mental Health Playbook, host Coach Trav opens with an MPP Spotlight on WNBA star Angel Reese, fresh off breaking the league's single-season rebounding re...

Coach Trav had a rough week — and instead of hiding it, he's breaking down exactly what he does to reset. No vacations, no grand gestures. Just three simple plays anyone can run. In this episode of The Mental Health Playbook, host Coach Trav (Mario Hines) opens with an MPP Spotlight on Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver DeVonta Smith — not for his stats, but for what his friendship with former Alab...

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-Gilchris...

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 d...

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 an...

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' Sup...

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 J...

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 a...

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...

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 ins...

In this episode of the Mental Health Playbook, Coach Trav discusses the journey of Victoria Garrick, a former Division I athlete who became a mental health advocate. He emphasizes the importance of community, finding your tribe, and the true meaning of legacy beyond just statistics and trophies. The episode also highlights the impactful coaching career of Dawn Staley, showcasing how legacy is buil...

Coach Trav and The Mental Health Playbook podcast is back to explore what it truly means to build a lasting legacy as an athlete, coach, and leader. Over the next few months, we'll dive into how legacy extends far beyond stats and accomplishments—it's about the impact you create, the doors you open, and the opportunities you generate for the next generation. We examine inspiring examples like Dawn...

In this episode of the Mental Health Playbook, Coach Trav interviews NFL safety Nick Ferguson, who shares his inspiring journey from being a walk-on at Georgia Tech to a 10-year NFL career. Ferguson discusses the challenges he faced, including his experiences in the CFL and NFL Europe, the disappointment of not being drafted, and the invaluable lessons learned from his upbringing in Miami. He emph...

In this episode, Coach Trav and Coach Jerry Seymour discuss their personal journeys, the importance of consistency in coaching, and the emotional impact of the Olympics. They reflect on the significance of mental preparation in sports and express curiosity about other sports, particularly hockey and curling. The dialogue emphasizes the value of accountability and structure in training, as well as...

In this episode, Coach Trav interviews Allen Hay Jr., a former college athlete who shares his journey from being a high school football player to navigating the challenges of college football at the University of Miami. Allen discusses the newfound freedom he feels after leaving the sport, his experiences growing up in South Florida, and the lessons he learned along the way. He reflects on the imp...

In this episode, Coach Trav and Coach Jerry Seymour discuss the impact of coaching in sports, share personal experiences, and analyze the recent Super Bowl. They delve into the motivational themes found in the Rocky movie franchise and how these lessons apply to life and sports. The conversation highlights the importance of mental health, personal growth, and the dynamics of the NFL season. Coach...

In this episode, Coach Trav emphasizes the importance of emotional awareness for leaders, particularly athletes, in navigating the pressures of public scrutiny and social media. He discusses the challenges of responding to immediate emotional triggers, the identity struggles young athletes face, and the need for emotional regulation in high-pressure situations. Coach Trav also highlights the respo...

In this episode, Coach Trav and Coach Jerry Seymour discuss the current state of college football, reflecting on the recent national championship game and the implications of the NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals and the transfer portal on player development and team culture. They emphasize the importance of building character and relationships in college sports, while also addressing the challeng...

In this episode of the Mental Health Playbook, Coach Trav interviews Kylon Lewis, the head of the NIL department at WMA Sports. At just 22 years old, Kylon has made significant strides in the sports business world, particularly in the realm of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities for athletes. He shares his journey from being a standout athlete in high school to pursuing a career that com...

In this episode of Coaches Corner, Coach Trav and Coach Jerry Seymour discuss the recent changes in the NFL coaching landscape, particularly focusing on Mike Tomlin's departure from the Pittsburgh Steelers. They explore the implications of such changes, the qualities that define effective head coaches, and the future prospects for coaches in the league. The conversation also touches on the importa...

In this episode of the Mental Health Playbook, Coach Trav reflects on the new year, emphasizing growth and the importance of setting goals. He discusses the college transfer portal, highlighting the challenges faced by athletes and the need for careful decision-making. Coach Trav encourages listeners to think through their choices and not act impulsively, as entering the portal can be a life-chang...

In this episode of Coaches Corner, Coach Trav and Coach Jerry Seymour discuss the transformative nature of coaching during combine season, the importance of mental health in sports, and the need for coaches to embrace different personalities within their teams. They share insights on building trust with athletes, learning from each other, and the significance of creating a safe space for open comm...