Writer and TV personality Darnell Nicole and former NFL player Marcus Smith II talk about boundaries in relationships, why Darnell quit drinking, and what led her to confront her emotions and childhood trauma. Marcus and Darnell reminisce about how getting to the root of their emotions allowed them to access a deeper level of self-understanding and awareness that helped them find a way out of depression.

This episode was produced in partnership with All Points North.

Learn more: https://apn.com/podcasts/ or give us a call at (720) 807-0799.

This episode was produced by Keith Weiner. Show design by Jenn Hu, Molly Eddington, and Eber Marin. Copy editing and quality analysis by Jess Johnson. Special thanks to Vanessa Detwiler for supporting this program through email marketing.

Former NFL players Mike Jordan and Marcus Smith II reminisce about their football careers, their experiences in treatment, and the growth they've experienced in their relationships. They also discuss the importance of being flexible and staying open to new experiences while maintaining boundaries.

This episode was produced in partnership with All Points North.

Learn more: https://apn.com/podcasts/ or give us a call at (720) 807-0799.

This episode was produced by Keith Weiner. Show design by Jenn Hu, Molly Eddington, and Eber Marin. Copy editing and quality analysis by Jess Johnson. Special thanks to Vanessa Detwiler for supporting this program through email marketing.

Former NFL players Jonathan Casillas and Marcus Smith II discuss balancing internal self-talk and what they hope to pass on to their kids. Marcus and Jonathan reminisce about past instances when they allowed people to overstep boundaries and why they now care more about being a good guy – not a nice guy.

This episode was produced in partnership with All Points North.

Learn more: https://apn.com/podcasts/ or give us a call at (720) 807-0799.

This episode was produced by Keith Weiner. Show design by Jenn Hu, Molly Eddington, and Eber Marin. Copy editing and quality analysis by Jess Johnson. Special thanks to Vanessa Detwiler for supporting this program through email marketing.

Former NFL players Garrett Gilkey and Marcus Smith II talk boundaries, codependence, and intentional surrender. Marcus and Garrett reminisce about their struggles with unhealthy soul ties and sexual addictions, how they relate to past trauma, and what they're doing to heal through fellowship and faith.

This episode was produced in partnership with All Points North.

Learn more: https://apn.com/podcasts/ or give us a call at (720) 807-0799.

This episode was produced by Keith Weiner. Show design by Jenn Hu, Molly Eddington, and Eber Marin. Copy editing and quality analysis by Jess Johnson. Special thanks to Vanessa Detwiler for supporting this program through email marketing.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 says, "Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." This verse emphasizes a mindset of gratitude, reminding us to thank God not only when things are going well, but also in difficult times. This gratitude comes from trusting that God has a purpose in every experience and that He is always with us, working for our good.

Expressing thanks in all circumstances isn't about ignoring hardships, but rather about maintaining a hopeful perspective and a sense of peace, knowing that God is guiding us. This gratitude strengthens our relationship with God, opens our hearts to His presence, and helps us see His blessings, even when life feels challenging.

Former NFL players Orson Prince-Charles and Marcus Smith II talk about struggle, anger, taking accountability, and walking in faith during periods of turmoil and ease. They discuss Orson's experience navigating legal issues, how he prioritizes his relationship with God, why mental health fits into his Christianity, and what he does to continue to be a student.

This episode was produced in partnership with All Points North.

Learn more: https://apn.com/podcasts/ or give us a call at (720) 807-0799.

This episode was produced by Keith Weiner. Show design by Jenn Hu, Molly Eddington, and Eber Marin. Copy editing and quality analysis by Jess Johnson. Special thanks to Vanessa Detwiler for supporting this program through email marketing.

In this episode of The Mental Note, host Marcus Smith II discusses the recent incident involving NFL player Jason Kelce, who reacted to a fan's homophobic slur by slamming the fan's phone. The conversation delves into the responsibilities of fans, the emotional toll on athletes, and the importance of respect in interactions between fans and players. Marcus emphasizes the need for understanding and compassion, highlighting that athletes are human beings with feelings and personal lives.

In this episode, "QB Controversy: Anthony Richardson Taps Out," Marcus Smith II and Austin Scott dive into the recent buzz surrounding starting quarterback Anthony Richardson, who made waves after tapping out of a game due to fatigue. They discuss the unique pressures on a young QB, the intense demands of the position, and the challenges of balancing mental and physical endurance on game day. Marcus and Austin explore the mixed reactions from fans and analysts, what this moment means for Richardson’s development, and the broader conversation around athletes, rest, and resilience in high-stakes sports.