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The Mental Health Playbook

Society & Culture

The Mental Health Playbook

Hosted by Coach Trav

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.

43 episodes

Episodes

The Mental Health Playbook
Latest episode

Make Your Reps Count: The Tom Brady Story Nobody Talks About

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…

3 days ago 28:49
The Mental Health Playbook
Sep 10, 2026

The Vince Young Story: What Happens When Your Coach Doesn't Believe In You

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…

1 wk ago 32:05
The Mental Health Playbook
Sep 6, 2026

Stay Ready: Preparing for the Opportunity You Can't See

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…

2 wks ago 24:05
The Mental Health Playbook
Aug 27, 2026

Plays for Recentering Yourself When You're Feeling Off

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…

3 wks ago 33:00
The Mental Health Playbook
Aug 20, 2026

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…

1 mo ago 37:37
The Mental Health Playbook
Aug 13, 2026

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…

1 mo ago 38:36
The Mental Health Playbook
Aug 6, 2026

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…

1 mo ago 1:06:43
The Mental Health Playbook
Jul 31, 2026

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'…

1 mo ago 48:54
The Mental Health Playbook
Jul 23, 2026

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…

2 mos ago 1:00:22
The Mental Health Playbook
Jul 16, 2026

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…

2 mos ago 33:49