Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd Episode: Unbreakable Episode 117 - Lane Johnson
Release Date: February 5, 2025
Host: Jay Glazer
Guest: Lane Johnson, All-Pro Right Tackle, Philadelphia Eagles

Introduction to the Episode

In this compelling episode of "Unbreakable," host Jay Glazer sits down with Lane Johnson, the esteemed right tackle for the Philadelphia Eagles. The conversation delves deep into Lane's personal journey, mental health advocacy, and the unbreakable bond between teammates navigating the pressures of professional sports.

Personal Journey and Mental Health Advocacy

Building a Support System

Jay Glazer opens the conversation by highlighting Lane's significant role not just on the field but also as a mental health advocate. Their friendship, rooted in rigorous mixed martial arts (MMA) training, has been pivotal in Lane's personal growth and mental well-being.

Jay Glazer [02:07]: "He is my battle buddy. Hell, he lived with me for about five months, my son and I."

Facing Anxiety and Overcoming Challenges

Lane candidly shares his struggles with anxiety, particularly during high-stakes moments like game days. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining focus and not allowing external pressures to overwhelm him.

Lane Johnson [07:10]: "Game days are rough on me. Every game day is just mornings, nausea, just confidence is low."

Lane discusses practical strategies he employs to manage anxiety, such as relying on his training, maintaining communication with Jay, and utilizing techniques like journaling and breathwork.

Lane Johnson [14:20]: "I learned to journal from you... I know how to do breath work and meditation and a gratitude list."

The Unbreakable Mindset

Evolving Beyond Stoicism

Jay and Lane explore the shift from stoic representations of strength to a more human and vulnerable approach in sports. This evolution underscores the importance of expressing emotions and seeking support when needed.

Lane Johnson [04:50]: "Now outside those white lines or outside that cage, we got to open up. We got to show that we're hurting."

Empowering Each Other

Their mutual support system allows them to lean on each other during tough times, reinforcing the idea that vulnerability can be a source of strength rather than weakness.

Lane Johnson [08:02]: "When we're going through it, we call each other... it's just that helped me so much."

Embracing Imperfection

Lane emphasizes that striving for perfection is unrealistic and that players should focus on their consistent performance rather than isolated incidents.

Lane Johnson [09:09]: "Your body of work is your body work. It's not whether you have a good game or not."

Coping Mechanisms and Daily Rituals

Mental Conditioning

Lane shares his daily rituals that help him maintain mental clarity and resilience. These include concentration drills, journaling, meditation, and physical activities that promote relaxation and focus.

Ryan Seacrest [13:33]: "I do a lot of sudoku on game day. Don't really listen to music anymore."

Physical and Mental Integration

The integration of physical training with mental health practices underscores the holistic approach Lane adopts to stay at the top of his game.

Ryan Seacrest [21:38]: "A lot of just stress control. The breath works... love the sauna, love the cold plunge."

Building a Legacy Through Support

Helping Others Through Personal Experience

Lane discusses how his openness about mental health has inspired teammates and other players to seek help and be more forthcoming about their own struggles.

Ryan Seacrest [23:35]: "People need to talk to themselves more than they listen to themselves... you can do this."

Creating a Positive Environment

The duo underscores the importance of fostering a supportive environment where players feel comfortable discussing their mental health without fear of judgment.

Lane Johnson [24:13]: "If I could be of service to one... I'm up, and I'm learning to be good in my upness."

Reflections on Professional Life and Personal Growth

Adapting to Roles and Expectations

Lane reflects on the dual pressures of professional performance and personal expectations, emphasizing the need to adapt and continuously improve.

Ryan Seacrest [20:42]: "Listen to your body... the first thing to do is, try to attack your weaknesses and stay consistent with that."

Balancing Public Perception and Self-Identity

The conversation also touches on the challenges of maintaining self-identity amidst public scrutiny and the constant need to meet external expectations.

Ryan Seacrest [09:35]: "Letting others define you in general is the big problem... a lot of people are older, they'll realize how much time they wasted."

Conclusion and Parting Thoughts

As the episode wraps up, both Jay and Lane express mutual appreciation for each other's support and the importance of their friendship in navigating the highs and lows of professional sports.

Lane Johnson [25:20]: "When you lean into me, dude... it lifts me up too. Allows me to be your brother."

Ryan Seacrest [25:24]: "Love you, brother. Good luck this week. I'll see you down there."

Notable Quotes

• Jay Glazer [02:07]: "He is my battle buddy. Hell, he lived with me for about five months, my son and I."
• Lane Johnson [04:50]: "Now outside those white lines or outside that cage, we got to open up. We got to show that we're hurting."
• Ryan Seacrest [13:33]: "I do a lot of sudoku on game day. Don't really listen to music anymore."
• Lane Johnson [09:09]: "Your body of work is your body work. It's not whether you have a good game or not."
• Ryan Seacrest [23:35]: "People need to talk to themselves more than they listen to themselves. So try that a little bit."
• Lane Johnson [25:20]: "When you lean into me, dude... it lifts me up too. Allows me to be your brother."

Key Takeaways

• Mental Health is Paramount: Lane Johnson's openness about his struggles with anxiety highlights the importance of mental health in high-pressure environments like the NFL.

• Support Systems Matter: The bond between Jay and Lane serves as a model for how teammates can support each other beyond the field, fostering both personal and professional growth.

• Continuous Improvement: Embracing a mindset of constant self-improvement and adapting to new challenges is essential for sustained success in sports and life.

• Vulnerability is Strength: Breaking the stigma around showing vulnerability can lead to stronger relationships and a healthier team dynamic.

This episode of "Unbreakable" provides an insightful look into the interplay between mental health and professional sports, emphasizing that true strength lies in recognizing and addressing one's vulnerabilities.