From athlete activist to author, Kenny Stills on his new book

Key Concepts

• Activism & Protest: Specifically, kneeling during the national anthem as a form of protest against racial inequality and police brutality.
• Mental Health & Therapy: The importance of seeking mental health support, particularly for athletes and men.
• Personal Transformation: The journey of self-discovery and healing outside of a professional athletic career.
• Alternative Medicine & Plant Medicine: Exploration of psychedelics and their potential therapeutic benefits.
• Gratitude & Optimism: Cultivating a positive mindset as a coping mechanism and path to well-being.

The Impact of Taking a Knee & Early Activism

Ten years prior to the interview, Kenny Stills initiated a significant act of protest by kneeling during the national anthem while playing in the NFL. He describes this moment as “life-changing,” noting his initial naiveté regarding the complexities of social movements and government. Despite lacking prior extensive involvement in activism, Stills felt a “calling” to participate, believing his platform could facilitate education and drive “substantial change.” He initially believed the “greatest nation in the world” possessed the resources to address and resolve societal problems. The book, Still Growing, Still Learning, Still Me, centers around this pivotal moment and its subsequent effects.

The Toll of Activism & Confronting Prejudice

Stills details how engaging in protest exposed him to harsh realities and prejudice he hadn’t previously encountered as a successful football player. He explains that his talent had previously shielded him from “friction,” but speaking out on behalf of his community resulted in “push back.” This experience led him to recognize the persistence of racism within the country and prompted him to seek therapy to navigate the emotional and psychological impact. He emphasizes that this pushback was instrumental in his journey towards understanding his identity beyond his athletic abilities.

Life After Football & Finding Healing

Retirement from professional football marked a transition towards prioritizing personal well-being. Stills actively pursued therapy and life coaching, alongside embracing outdoor activities like surfing, snowboarding, and scuba diving. He describes connecting with “mother nature” as “incredibly healing.” He also openly discusses his exploration of “plant medicine” – specifically psychedelics – both recreationally in his youth and later in a more “medical position,” advocating for awareness of their potential therapeutic applications.

Addressing Men’s Mental Health & Seeking Support

Stills acknowledges the societal challenges men face in openly discussing their feelings and seeking help. He stresses the importance of being “willing to ask for help” and recognizing that one doesn’t need to “carry such a heavy load” alone. He highlights the benefits of working with others, emphasizing that therapy provided him with “tools to be able to work on myself” and ultimately “lighten the load” and experience greater joy. He contrasts this with the “hyper masculine” environment of professional football and the additional pressures of family life and his activism.

The Power of Gratitude & Optimism

Reflecting on advice for his younger self, Stills advocates for cultivating a mindset of “gratitude and optimism.” He admits to previously channeling anger and pessimism through football, using the physicality of the sport as an outlet. However, he now recognizes the value of a “gratitude practice” and focusing on positive aspects of life. He notes that football served as an acceptable outlet for aggression, but a mature perspective emphasizes positive emotional regulation.

Book Information & Closing Remarks

The interview concludes with a promotion of Kenny Stills’ book, Still Growing, Still Learning, Still Me, which details his journey of protest, healing, and personal transformation.