The Mental Playbook champions mental wellness in the sports community by fostering open dialogue, challenging stigmas, and offering actionable strategies for holistic growth. Through candid conversations and expert insights, the podcast empowers athletes and sports enthusiasts to prioritize their mental health as a vital cornerstone of success and well-being. Subscribe here: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/maliya-saphiapatel/subscribefbclid=PAdGRleASvy3BwZG9mAmV4dG4DYWVtATEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQPMTI0MDI0NTc0Mjg3NDE0AAGntnigt6VycA9UH_puoZBQztkqtdUhVyr6Fo3uUUzkXmcrieDBnwdPi0rCjug_aem_xlOzsdS
Friendships can shape some of our best memories and even our mindset, but they can also come with pressure, change, and even heartbreak. In this episode, Rachael Rizzi, rising junior at USC and mental health advocate, and I discuss the pressures of being part of a friend group, having a best friend, and why being a “floater” and having different friends for different parts of your life can be important.
We discuss how to resolve tension and conflict with friends, what makes long-distance friendships work, and how to navigate friendship breakups. We also explore the meaning of having teammates as friends and why focusing on yourself first can help you find the right people along the way.
This conversation is about redefining what friendship looks like and realizing there isn't just one right way to have friends.
Instagram: @rachael.rizzi @heyyitsray_
23 Aug 2026
Ep. 45: The QB Mental Game with Jordan Palmer
What does it take to perform when the pressure is on?
In this episode of the Mental Playbook, Jordan Palmer, Quarterback Coach and Entrepreneur, and I talk about mindset, preparation, and overcoming pressure on and off the field. From his experience as a backup quarterback to lessons on passion vs. purpose, FOPO (fear of other people’s opinions), and the power of a neutral mindset, Jordan shares practical insights that go far beyond being an athlete.
We also explore why preparing for high pressure moments matter and how the habits you build ultimately create your outcomes. Tune in to learn the thoughtful strategies that Jordan teaches his athletes which you can adapt in your everyday life.
Link: https://qbsummit.com/ (https://qbsummit.com/)
16 Aug 2026
Ep. 44: From the Field to Fashion
In this episode of the Mental Playbook, I sit down with Jamia Fields, MBA and PhD student, professional soccer player (forward and defender), founder of Vintyj Kreations and Stoic Los Angeles. We talk about the journey beyond the game!
From competing with different clubs and playing internationally, Jamia shares how soccer has taught her the importance of adapting to change whether it's a new environment or an end of a contract. We also discuss the importance of having a creative outlet outside of sports and how fashion has become a space for her to express herself beyond being an athlete but with the same goal oriented mindset.
Jamia opens up about the importance of representation and resources in sports, and why creating opportunities and seeing people who look like you can make a lasting difference. We also talk about the things that keep her grounded, including reading self-help books, believing in herself, and leaning on her faith.
This conversation is about more than soccer, it's about discovering who you are, embracing change, finding creative outlets, and building a life and identity off the field.
https://stoiclosangeles.com/ (https://stoiclosangeles.com/)
https://vksstudios.com/ (https://vksstudios.com/)
Insta: @jamiafields
Who has been a guest on Mental Playbook
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
Samantha Whiteman
Rebecca Smith
Marc Sagal
Cindi Miller
Stephanie Szostak
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
117
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
7 ratings
Spotify
4.6 / 5
32 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 64 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
83
Social presence
0
YouTube
63
Engagement
51
Contact Mental Playbook
Guest appearances
Books guests
Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.
Questions about Mental Playbook
Who hosts Mental Playbook?
host host the show. Published by Maliya Saphia Patel.
How often do new episodes come out?
The show publishes weekly, based on its RSS feed.
Does Mental Playbook take guests?
Yes. Guests have been identified in episode analyses.
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