This week on The Mental Matchup, we sit down with Ben Redlener, a sophomore lacrosse player at Emerson College, to talk about the pressures that come with being a student-athlete—and the quiet battles that often go unseen.

Ben opens up about his mental health journey, reflecting on how constantly comparing himself to other athletes and peers impacted his confidence, academic life, and athletic performance. Through vulnerability and growth, Ben has found strength in accepting his own path and is now using his voice to support others doing the same.

In this episode, we cover:

The weight of comparison in athletics and life

The impact of self-doubt on performance and progress

Redefining success and self-worth as a student-athlete

Finding power in vulnerability and community

Listen to Ben's podcast Attolo here

Find out more about Morgan's Message here

Follow Morgan's Message on IG here