On this episode of Cleats, Chaos, and Coffee, host Tammy Appleton welcomes Colin Stevens — former D1 basketball standout, mental performance coach, and author — for a raw, heartfelt conversation on what it really takes to raise confident, resilient young athletes.

From walking on at Coastal Carolina to earning a scholarship and captain’s badge, Colin’s story is a masterclass in grit and growth. He shares how fear, doubt, and overthinking almost derailed his dream — and how taking ownership of his mindset changed everything. Together, Tammy and Colin dive deep into the mental game that every parent, coach, and athlete needs to understand.

They explore why burnout shows up earlier than ever, how social media reshapes confidence, and why it’s okay — even necessary — for kids to struggle. Colin opens up about his philosophy on mental toughness vs. mental wellness, why vulnerability isn’t weakness, and how parents can support their children without stealing the lesson from the struggle.

This episode is packed with wisdom for every sideline warrior navigating today’s youth sports world. If you’ve ever wondered how to help your athlete stay strong in mind and body — this is your playbook.

🎥 Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0LBFEX0J7ho

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00:00 Introduction to Mental Performance Coaching

01:44 The Journey from Player to Coach

05:28 Transformation Through Ownership

09:11 Building a Supportive Village

12:31 Honoring Mentorship and Legacy

18:08 Understanding Mental Toughness vs. Mental Wellness

25:20 The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health

32:20 The Importance of Struggle in Growth

36:21 Key Takeaways for Parents