Podcast Summary: "Beyond the Game: Antonio Brown on Weed, Music, and Mental Health"
Podcast Information:
- Title: Traditional Talk
- Host/Author: Traditional Podcast
- Episode: Beyond the Game: Antonio Brown on Weed, Music, and Mental Health
- Release Date: July 17, 2025
- Description: Traditional Talk is where cannabis meets culture, hosted by Aaron, founder of Traditional. Join unfiltered conversations with top artists, athletes, and influencers breaking the cannabis stigma, advocating for federal legalization, and pushing the industry forward.
1. Introduction and Personal Connection
The episode kicks off with a relaxed atmosphere as host Aaron (referred to as B) introduces his close friend, Antonio Brown (A). They reminisce about their longstanding friendship and mutual support, setting a candid tone for the conversation.
Notable Quote:
- Antonio Brown (A) [00:30]: “Here with my friend Aaron, man. JB Joy, you know, Aaron, take care of everyone, man. He got the best buddy, best environments.”
2. Early Experiences with Cannabis
Antonio delves into his first encounter with cannabis during his teenage years. He recounts a high school experience where an overly potent strain led to anxiety and a memorable hospital visit, highlighting the importance of understanding and responsible use.
Notable Quote:
- Antonio Brown (A) [03:28]: “I feel like the first time I smoked weed probably was like 17 in high school... I really couldn’t handle it. But like it was something to laugh about.”
3. Football Career and Family Legacy
AB shares insights into his football journey, influenced by his family's deep-rooted history in the sport. Growing up in Liberty City, Miami, he used football as a means to better his life and support his family, emphasizing the role of competition and personal growth.
Notable Quote:
- Antonio Brown (A) [05:36]: “Football was always an outlet for me to show my talents and be my best self... I always wanted to be.”
4. Navigating the NFL and Cannabis Use
The discussion transitions to AB's professional football career, including challenges like injuries and the NFL's stance on cannabis. AB advocates for cannabis as a healthier alternative to prescribed painkillers, emphasizing its benefits for both physical and mental well-being.
Notable Quotes:
- Antonio Brown (A) [09:15]: “Marijuana was always my way to feel good and put me at peace.”
- Host Aaron (B) [11:46]: “So how are you passing all your tests in the NFL?”
5. Advocacy for Mental Health and Trauma
AB addresses misconceptions about mental health among athletes, refuting claims of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) by discussing universal experiences of trauma and the importance of therapy and mental resilience. He launched a platform named ctsvn to support mental health awareness.
Notable Quote:
- Antonio Brown (A) [13:19]: “We all got a little trauma in our life... It's a part of being a leader.”
6. The Decision to Walk Off the Field
A pivotal moment in the podcast is AB's recounting of walking off the field due to disagreements with his team's management. He explains that prioritizing his health and mental well-being over playing hurt led to both professional and personal successes, including lucrative deals and expanding his career into music.
Notable Quotes:
- Antonio Brown (A) [18:37]: “I played football to make a life, not to ruin my life.”
- AB [23:07]: “I actually made more money in that year... I did a podcast with the Simvis podcast for $25,000.”
7. Relationship with Tom Brady and Super Bowl Victory
AB shares his positive relationship with Tom Brady, detailing their collaboration that culminated in a Super Bowl win. This partnership underscores the mutual respect and shared goals between the two athletes.
Notable Quote:
- Antonio Brown (A) [28:24]: “It's a blessing to meet Tom Brady and make a goal together to win the Super Bowl.”
8. Transition to a Rap Career
Post-football, AB discusses his seamless transition into the music industry. He highlights collaborations with prominent artists like Lil Wayne, Keisha Cole, and Young Thug, emphasizing his dedication to building a robust musical portfolio.
Notable Quote:
- Antonio Brown (A) [34:36]: “We put that on right now... These guys are like my brother.”
9. Cannabis Industry Advocacy and Legalization Efforts
Aaron steers the conversation toward the broader cannabis industry, advocating for federal legalization. AB supports this initiative, aiming to normalize cannabis use and eliminate the stigma associated with it. They discuss the importance of regulated, high-quality products and the potential benefits of cannabis for pain management and mental health.
Notable Quotes:
- Antonio Brown (A) [36:40]: “Man, I'm gonna go talk to Trump Saturday, let the president know... marijuana could actually be an asset to help people.”
- Host Aaron (B) [49:05]: “We're banking on federal legalization... create brands and make cannabis more normalized.”
10. Future Plans: Music, Business, and Boxing Ventures
The podcast takes a lighthearted turn as AB and his guests joke about entering the boxing world, specifically targeting figures like Jake Paul. They also outline their plans to expand their music careers, invest in real estate, and promote cannabis through various business endeavors, including documentaries and new artist signings.
Notable Quote:
- Antonio Brown (A) [58:51]: “We got some exciting music and I'm excited to share it to the world.”
11. Final Messages and Closing Remarks
In the concluding segments, AB and his co-hosts share motivational messages emphasizing self-belief, discipline, and pursuing one's dreams. They encourage listeners to prioritize mental health, make wise investments, and remain true to themselves amidst external pressures.
Notable Quote:
- Antonio Brown (A) [90:09]: “Stay true to who you are, be disciplined... football is like you a kid, you used to play football and wondering one day.”
Conclusion: This episode of "Traditional Talk" provides an intimate look into Antonio Brown's multifaceted life beyond football. From his advocacy for cannabis legalization and mental health to his ventures into music and business, AB presents a narrative of resilience, self-empowerment, and the pursuit of personal and professional fulfillment. Through candid storytelling and engaging dialogue, listeners gain valuable insights into the intersections of sports, culture, and wellness.
Follow Us: Stay updated with more conversations like this by following Traditional Talk on Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Podcasts.