In this compelling episode of the ‪@ManagingOurMinds‬  podcast, hosts Dominique Easley and Damien Jacobs welcome former NFL player Isaiah Pead for an in-depth conversation about life's challenges and triumphs. The episode begins with Dominique and Damien setting the stage for a discussion that delves into the importance of mental health and vulnerability, particularly in the world of professional sports.
Isaiah Pead shares his personal journey, starting with his upbringing in Columbus, Georgia, where he faced the pressures of being a talented young athlete. He reflects on the societal expectations and the internal battles he fought while striving for success. The conversation touches on the stigma surrounding mental health, especially for men, and the difficulty of expressing vulnerability in a world that often equates it with weakness.
As the discussion unfolds, Isaiah opens up about his experiences in the NFL, highlighting the highs of his career and the intense pressures that came with it. He candidly discusses the silent battles athletes face, including the fear of failure and the constant need to prove oneself. Both hosts contribute their insights, drawing from their own experiences to enrich the dialogue.
A pivotal moment in Isaiah's life was the car accident that abruptly ended his football career. He shares the emotional and physical challenges he faced during his recovery, emphasizing the role of faith and resilience in his journey. Isaiah's story is one of transformation, as he learned to navigate life beyond the field and redefine his identity.
The conversation also explores Isaiah's role as a father and the lessons he imparts to his children. He speaks about the importance of being present, teaching his kids the value of emotional intelligence, and breaking the cycle of silence around mental health. Dominique and Damien engage with Isaiah on these topics, creating a supportive and insightful dialogue that resonates with listeners.
Throughout the episode, the hosts and Isaiah emphasize the power of community and the strength found in vulnerability. They discuss the importance of having open conversations about mental health and the need to support one another in times of struggle. The episode concludes with Isaiah sharing his daily practices for managing his mind, offering listeners practical tools for personal growth and resilience.
This episode is a testament to the human spirit's capacity for growth and healing. It highlights the importance of mental well-being, the courage to be vulnerable, and the transformative power of community. Join Dominique Easley, Damien Jacobs, and Isaiah Pead for an inspiring and heartfelt discussion that will leave you reflecting on your own journey and the strength found in vulnerability. #MentalHealthAwareness #Resilience #Fatherhood #NFLJourney

n this episode of the "Managing Our Minds" podcast, hosts Dominique Easley and Damien Jacobson engage in a profound conversation with former NFL player Zac Stacey. The episode begins with a warm welcome, setting the tone for an open and honest dialogue about Zac's life experiences, both on and off the field.

Zac Stacey, known for his time as an NFL running back, shares his journey from a small-town upbringing to the professional sports arena. He reflects on the pressures and expectations that come with being a high-profile athlete, particularly in the context of his identity beyond football. Zac candidly discusses the challenges of being labeled solely as a football player and the struggle to redefine himself after his career was cut short due to a severe injury.

The conversation takes a deeper turn as Zac opens up about a viral video from 2021 that brought significant public attention and scrutiny. He describes the incident as a mental breakdown that was publicized and criminalized, emphasizing that it was not reflective of his true character. Zac shares the emotional toll of the experience and the journey of healing and growth that followed. He highlights the importance of accountability, self-awareness, and the role of his son in motivating him to become a better person.

Throughout the episode, Zac and the hosts explore the complexities of mental health, particularly in the context of professional sports. Zac discusses the lack of mental health awareness in his upbringing and the challenges of navigating life after football. He emphasizes the need for community support and the importance of applying therapeutic tools in real-world situations.

The discussion also touches on the dynamics of co-parenting and the societal perceptions that come with being a public figure. Zac reflects on the support he received from the mother of his child and the importance of maintaining a focus on their son's well-being. He shares his commitment to being a present and supportive father, despite the challenges and public perceptions.

As the episode progresses, Zac shares insights into his ongoing journey of personal growth and redemption. He discusses the significance of love, self-acceptance, and the importance of giving oneself grace. Zac emphasizes the value of learning from past experiences and using them as a foundation for future growth.

The hosts and Zac engage in a candid dialogue about the realities of life after professional sports, the impact of societal expectations, and the ongoing process of self-discovery. The episode concludes with a message of hope and resilience, highlighting the power of vulnerability and the potential for growth in every area of life.

Overall, this episode of "Managing Our Minds" offers a compelling and insightful exploration of Zac Stacey's journey, providing listeners with valuable lessons on mental health, identity, and personal growth.

🎙️ In this powerful episode of Managing Our Minds, hosts Dominique Easley and Damien Jacobs sit down with former NFL player Chris Hubbard for a raw, honest conversation about mental health, resilience, and life after football.

From growing up in a small town to playing under the bright lights of the NFL, Chris opens up about the personal battles he’s faced—grief, pressure, and the weight of public expectations. He shares how vulnerability became his strength and how support systems, self-care, and grounded coaching played a key role in his healing journey.

The trio dives deep into the emotional toll of loss, the impact of environment on life decisions, co-parenting challenges, and the mental health pressure placed on athletes from high school to the pros. They also tackle the growing influence of NIL deals on young athletes and discuss what makes a true franchise quarterback—highlighting Shadour Sanders and his potential with the Cleveland Browns.

🧠 This conversation is for anyone navigating change, looking for hope, or seeking the tools to manage their minds.

📍Watch now and join the conversation.
🔗 Subscribe: youtube.com/@managingourminds
🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio & more.

#MentalHealth #ChrisHubbard #ManagingOurMinds #NFLStories #VulnerabilityHeals #AthleteWellness #ShadourSanders #NIL #MentalHealthAwareness #DominiqueEasley #DamienJacobs

In this episode of "Managing Our Minds," hosts Dominique Easley and Damien Jacobs welcome special guest Marcus Smith II. They dive into the importance of vulnerability and mental health, especially among men. Marcus shares his personal journey, from experiencing anxiety attacks at a young age to facing challenges in his football career. He opens up about a pivotal moment in 2018 when he bravely spoke about a suicide attempt and how therapy and support from loved ones helped him heal. Marcus also discusses his daily practices for managing his mind, including prayer, journaling, and spending quality time with his wife. The conversation touches on the significance of mental health awareness, the impact of childhood experiences, and the power of community and support systems. Join us for an inspiring and heartfelt discussion that emphasizes growth, healing, and the strength found in vulnerability.