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PODCAST · education

The Professor's Playbook

by Toby Brooks

The Professor's Playbook is your go-to podcast for insights at the intersection of sports science, education, and motivation. Hosted by Dr. Toby Brooks, this show dives deep into lessons from the classroom, the field, and beyond. Whether you're a student, a professional, or simply curious about the world of sports science, each episode offers practical takeaways, personal reflections, and expert advice. Tune in to explore the strategies, stories, and skills that shape successful careers and resilient mindsets. Welcome to The Professor's Playbook—where education meets experience!

Publisher-supplied feed metadata · PodParley refreshed Jan 20, 2026 · Source feed

Episodes

  1. 048 | The Quiet Power of Showing Up

    About the Host Toby Brooks, PhD is the host of the Becoming UnDone podcast, a speaker, author, performance scientist, and professor. With two decades of experience in the professional and collegiate sports realms, Dr. Brooks specializes in understanding what sets high achievers apart. He serves...

  2. 047 | Finding Purpose and Truthfulness Amid Life's Unexpected Turns

    Episode SummaryIn this episode of the Professor's Playbook, Toby Brooks shares his transformative journey from discontentment and frustration to fulfillment and gratitude. Relaying his personal experiences of being passed over for a desired job in Lubbock, Toby opens up about the emotional…

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  3. 046 | Navigating Legal Challenges in Athletic Training...and Custom Cars

    About the Host Dr. Toby Brooks is an academic and automotive enthusiast with numerous achievements in the fields of athletic training, sports medicine, and automotive journalism. He holds a position as a professor where he engages with students and practitioners alike, sharing knowledge from a...

  4. 045 | Strategic Thinking: Balancing Liberality and Systematic Success

    About the Host Toby Brooks is an academic professional specializing in athletic training and sports medicine. Formerly the MAT Program Director at TTUHSC, Toby has a rich background in athletic training, having previously worked as the head football athletic trainer at Liberty University. He is...

  5. 044 | Derrick Rose's Journey: A Lesson in Temperance and Resilience

    About the Host Dr. Toby Brooks is a seasoned expert in athletic training, sports medicine, and performance science. He is well-respected in his field for his deep understanding of sports injuries, rehabilitation, and the virtues necessary for effective clinical practice. He is the host of "The...

  6. 043 | Courage, Ethics, and AI: Navigating Leadership in Health Professions

    About the Host Toby Brooks is an engaging speaker and experienced professional in the fields of leadership, education, and athletic training. Known for his thought-provoking insights and storytelling approach, Toby integrates ethics, courage, and professional values into his teachings. As the…

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  7. 042 | The Science of the Comeback: Rebuild with Purpose and Clarity

    Episode Summary In this episode, Toby Brooks delves into the profound impact of reaching career milestones and the subsequent existential challenges that can follow. Reflecting on his personal journey, Toby describes the moment when achieving tenure, a lifelong academic goal, ironically ushered…

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  8. 041 | Unlocking Spinal Strength: The Core of Athletic Performance

    Episode Summary In this captivating episode of "The Professor's Playbook," hosted by Dr. Toby Brooks, we journey back to the summer of 1999 to revisit the story of NBA star Larry Johnson and his career-altering back injury. This episode delves into the devastating impact that five herniated discs...

  9. 040 | Grant Hill's Ankle Woes and the Anatomy Behind Them

    Episode Summary In this episode of "Professor's Playbook," Dr. Toby Brooks takes basketball enthusiasts and sports science aficionados on a compelling journey into the world of ankle health through the lens of NBA legend Grant Hill's career. This episode underscores the significance of foot and...

  10. 039 | Unlocking Knee Mechanics: Prevent Injuries and Enhance Performance

    Episode Summary Dive into the critical world of athletic training and sports medicine with Dr. Toby Brooks as he recounts a climactic game night under the lights of Williams Stadium in Virginia. In this episode of "The Professor's Playbook," Dr. Brooks narrates the chilling experience of managing...

  11. 038 | Unlocking the Hip: The Powerhouse of Human Movement

    Episode Summary In this captivating episode of "The Professor's Playbook," Dr. Toby Brooks takes listeners on an enlightening journey into the world of the hip joint and pelvic girdle, using the iconic story of Bo Jackson as an entry point. The episode explores the intricacies of hip anatomy,...

  12. 037 | Unlocking Athletic Motion: Phases, Mechanics, and the Kinetic Chain

    Episode Summary This episode of "The Professor's Playbook" presents an engrossing story of Rick Ankiel, whose promising pitching career took a sudden turn due to a loss of control during a crucial MLB playoff game. Dr. Toby Brooks explores Ankiel's journey and unravels the intricacies behind...

  13. 036 | I Crushed His Carpals. She Broke His Heart: The Wrist and Hand

    Episode Summary In this episode of "The Professor's Playbook," host Dr. Toby Brooks delves into the intricate and often overlooked world of wrist and hand anatomy. Using a personal anecdote, Dr. Brooks highlights the importance of grip strength not just for a firm handshake but as a foundational...

  14. 035 | Unlocking the Elbow: Anatomy, Movement, and Injury Prevention

    Episode Summary In this engaging installment of "The Professor's Playbook," Dr. Toby Brooks takes listeners through the intricacies of elbow anatomy and its significant role in movement science. Drawing from his personal experiences as an athletic trainer at the University of Arizona, Dr. Brooks...

  15. 034 | Mastering Shoulder Stability: Lessons from a Painful Football Loss

    Episode Summary In this engaging episode of the Professor's Playbook, Dr. Toby Brooks offers listeners a memorable recount of a UTEP football game against the Tulsa Golden Hurricane, highlighting the challenges faced both on and off the field. Involved in a dramatic shoulder dislocation incident,...

  16. 033 | Small Connections: Key Lessons from Everyday Interactions

    Episode Summary In this engaging episode of "The Professor's Playbook," host Toby Brooks highlights a seemingly inconsequential encounter that led to a compelling lesson about the importance of connection. Reflecting on his transition to a new role at Baylor University, Brooks emphasizes the…

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  17. 032 | Mastering the Shoulder Girdle: Anatomy, Function, and Performance Tips

    Episode Summary In this engaging episode of "The Professor's Playbook," Toby Brooks dives into the intricacies of the shoulder girdle, shedding light on its pivotal role in athletic performance and injury prevention. With a blend of technical insight and accessible explanation, Toby demystifies...

  18. 031 | Unleashing Power: The Role of Levers in Athletic Performance

    Episode Summary In this enlightening episode of "The Professor's Playbook," Dr. Toby Brooks explores the fascinating world of physics and biomechanics, weaving personal anecdotes with educational insights. He recounts a childhood spent splitting wood with his family, using it as a metaphor to...

  19. 030 | Crafting a Legacy: Impact Beyond the Classroom and Life

    Episode Summary In this thought-provoking episode of "The Professor's Playbook," host Toby Brooks prompts listeners to reflect on their legacies. Using the transformational story of Alfred Nobel as a catalyst, Toby encourages introspection on how one's life choices and impact can shape the…

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  20. 029 | Innovative Teaching: Podcasting as a Tool in Education

    About the Host Toby Brooks is an enthusiastic and innovative educator with a flair for integrating creative tools into his teaching methodologies. Inspired by his vibrant school days under the guidance of Ms. Mathis, a renowned PE teacher in Illinois, Toby has channeled that same passion and...

  21. 028 | Mastering Muscle Control: Unlocking the Power of Neuromuscular Coordination

    About the Host Dr. Toby Brooks is a seasoned expert in the field of anatomical kinesiology, athletic training, and strength & conditioning. With an extensive background in sports performance and rehabilitation, he brings invaluable insights to both athletes and students. Dr. Brooks is known for…

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  22. 027 | Embracing Failure: Lessons Learned from Three Major Setbacks

    Episode Summary In this compelling episode of "The Professor's Playbook," host Toby Brooks opens up about his journey through personal and professional failures over the past several years. With a focus on introspection and growth, Toby candidly shares three significant hurdles he's faced…

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  23. 026 | Unveiling Toby Brooks: 10 Things You Didn't Know About Me

    90xUbwvSlqRQIYcf30p7 About the Host Toby Brooks is the host of "The Professor's Playbook" podcast. He is an accomplished academic with over two decades of experience in higher education. Toby is a first-generation college graduate holding five degrees, including a doctorate. He has a rich...

  24. 025 | Unraveling the Threads of Anatomical Kinesiology

    Episode Summary Welcome to another captivating episode of "The Professor's Playbook," hosted by Dr. Toby Brooks, focusing on the intriguing world of anatomical kinesiology. This episode is a deep dive into the foundational principles of anatomical kinesiology, a crucial discipline for anyone in…

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  25. 024 | Mastering Podcast Production: From Humble Beginnings to Pro Workflow

    Episode Summary In this engaging episode of "The Professor's Playbook," Dr. Toby Brooks takes listeners on a comprehensive journey through the intricacies of podcast production. Reflecting on an enjoyable yet formative attempt at podcasting with his daughter, Toby reveals how it sparked his...

  26. 023 | From Aspiration to Action: Tackling Branding, Books, and TEDx

    Episode Summary In this engaging episode of "The Professor's Playbook," host Toby Brooks delves into the art of achieving dreams despite setbacks, drawing inspiration from iconic filmmaker Steven Spielberg's journey to success. Around 1964, Spielberg faced academic rejection yet persevered,...

  27. 022 | Miscalculated Minutes: My Interview Mishap with NFL Legend Carl Banks

    Episode Summary In this revealing episode of "The Professor's Playbook," host Toby Brooks recounts a recent personal mishap during a sought-after interview with NFL veteran and business mogul Carl Banks. Despite technological preparations, a simple error in calculating time zones leads to an...

  28. 021 | 2025 Prediction: Master AI Now...Your Key to Thriving in Tomorrow's World

    Episode Summary In this episode of "The Professor's Playbook," Dr. Toby Brooks addresses the buzz surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) and offers his expert insight into its future impact on education and work. With the growing concern over AI’s role in academia and the workforce, he delves...

  29. 020 | Reframe Rejection: Turning Setbacks into Stepping Stones

    Episode Summary In this episode of "The Professor's Playbook," Toby Brooks guides us through an honest and insightful exploration of rejection. We all experience it; whether in our careers or personal lives, the sting is familiar. However, Toby flips the script to present rejection not as a...

  30. 019 | Battling Burnout: Strategies to Reclaim Your Energy and Purpose

    Episode Summary In this episode of "The Professor's Playbook," host Dr. Toby Brooks dives deep into the pervasive issue of burnout among high achievers, including professionals, students, and athletes. Recognizing the widespread impact of burnout, Dr. Brooks explains how this condition manifests…

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  31. 018 | Resetting Expectations: A Journey from Hand-Me-Downs to New Beginnings**

    Episode Summary In this heartening episode of "The Professor's Playbook," Toby Brooks shares two poignant stories from his past that emphasize gratitude and the unseen value in everyday objects. Growing up in a modest household taught Toby the importance of hard work and appreciation. These...

  32. 017 | Missed Dinners and Life Lessons: A Tribute to Allen Brickhaus

    Episode Summary In this heartfelt episode of "The Professor's Playbook," Toby Brooks delves into the theme of missed opportunities through a reminiscent narrative that blends his love for cars and profound respect for influential mentors. The episode begins with a vivid description of a…

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  33. 016 | Wishing Isn't Enough: Turn Passion into Purposeful Action

    Episode Summary Join Toby Brooks in this compelling episode of "The Professor's Playbook," where he revisits his initial dreams of playing college basketball and how those aspirations evolved into a career focused on leadership and personal growth. Through his candid storytelling, Toby…

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  34. 015 | Cracking the Code: Demystifying Sports Medicine Jargon

    Episode Summary In this engaging episode of "The Professor’s Playbook," Dr. Toby Brooks tackles the often perplexing world of jargon in sports medicine and academia. With terms like "Tennis elbow" or "Tommy John surgery" being commonplace in these fields, Dr. Brooks acknowledges the challenges...

  35. 014 | Embrace Surprises: Lessons from Property Disputes to NBA Heroes

    Episode Summary Get ready to dive into a rollercoaster of surprises in this episode of the Professor's Playbook with Dr. Toby Brooks. Sharing a personal story of unexpected property disputes and a life-altering encounter with a childhood hero, Toby illustrates how surprises, both good and bad…

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  36. 013 | Calling an Audible: One Weird Moment from My Career in Athletic Training

    Episode Summary Join Toby Brooks in this episode of "The Professor's Playbook" as he shares a humorous and unusual sideline experience during a Division 1 college football game. Toby recounts a real-life scenario where quick thinking and practical improvisation were crucial, involving a wide...

  37. 012 | Heartbreak: Turning Pain into Purpose and Resilience

    About the Host Toby Brooks is a dynamic and inspiring podcast host who is passionate about personal development and helping others achieve their dreams. With a rich background in education and mentoring young professionals, Toby draws from his own experiences to provide valuable insights and life...

  38. 011 | Breaking Down Misconceptions: Embrace Your True Self and Story

    About the Host Dr. Toby Brooks is the host of The Professor's Playbook podcast, known for his insightful discussions on sports medicine, athletic training, and education. As an accomplished author and podcaster, Toby has penned several books and produced numerous podcasts. He has a rich...

  39. 010 | Overcoming Your Hurdles: Transform Brick Walls into Stepping Stones

    Episode Summary In this inspiring episode of "The Professor's Playbook," Dr. Toby Brooks tackles the universal feeling of being "stuck" and unveils the barriers that hold us back from achieving our goals. Guiding listeners through the common hurdles encountered on the path to success, Dr. Brooks...

  40. 009 | Professor Knows Best: Insider Tips for Thriving in College

    About the Host Dr. Toby Brooks is a seasoned professor and mentor, well-versed in guiding college students through the diverse and challenging landscape of higher education. With a rich academic background and a commitment to student success, Dr. Brooks specializes in developing strategies for...

  41. 008 | From VJ to Visionary: The Dave Holmes Effect

    Dave Holmes is a prominent figure in the world of media and storytelling, best known for his engaging work as a podcaster. Holmes first rose to fame as a VJ on MTV, where he charmed audiences with his approachable demeanor during the channel's golden era of music videos. He has since carved out a...

  42. 007 | Behind the Mic: The Real Impact of Podcasting on Personal Growth

    Episode Summary In this episode of The Professor's Playbook, Toby Brooks opens up about his deep passion for podcasting and the personal journey behind his show, Becoming UnDone. As the episode unfolds, Toby delves into the unexpected beginnings of the podcast, reflecting on how a simple, yet...

  43. 006 | The Book That Rewired My Mindset and Changed Everything

    Episode Summary In this episode of The Professor's Playbook, Dr. Toby Brooks shares a personal story about a transformative moment influenced by a single book, The Greatest Salesman in the World by Og Mandino. Faced with professional and personal struggles, Dr. Brooks recounts how a serendipitous...

  44. 005 | Courage Over Competence: Start Before You're Ready

    Episode Summary: Join Dr. Toby Brooks in this episode of The Professor's Playbook as he challenges the pervasive myth that expertise is a prerequisite before embarking on meaningful endeavors. Reflecting on his personal narrative, Toby unveils his early career challenges, working as a freshly...

  45. 004 | Unraveling 'Why': The Hidden Driver Behind Every Success

    About the Host: Toby Brooks is a multifaceted expert in education and motivation. As a professor and learning scientist, Toby is deeply invested in understanding and promoting effective learning strategies. His impressive background as a former college and professional athletic trainer fuels his...

  46. 003 | Why Do Some Fall Apart? Unearthing the Mysteries Behind Talent and Failure

    About the Host Dr. Toby Brooks is an accomplished academic and podcaster, recognized for his innovative contributions to the fields of athletic training and personal development. He is the host of "The Professor's Playbook" and "Becoming Undone," podcasts that explore the journey of resilience…

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  47. 002 | Hope Isn't a Strategy: Leveraging Podcasting for Personal Growth

    About the Host Toby Brooks is a seasoned podcaster and academic who embarked on a transformative podcasting journey nearly three years ago. He is the creator of the "Professor's Playbook" and "Becoming Undone" podcasts, through which he has engaged with a diverse array of individuals, including...

  48. 001 | Launching The Professor's Playbook: Lessons from a Podcasting Journey

    About the Host: Toby Brooks is a seasoned educator, sports medicine professional, and podcaster. With a distinctive background comprising five college degrees, Toby is currently a college professor at Baylor University in Waco, Texas. Besides teaching, he is an experienced podcaster, with his...

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

The Professor's Playbook is your go-to podcast for insights at the intersection of sports science, education, and motivation. Hosted by Dr. Toby Brooks, this show dives deep into lessons from the classroom, the field, and beyond. Whether you're a student, a professional, or simply curious about the world of sports science, each episode offers practical takeaways, personal reflections, and expert advice. Tune in to explore the strategies, stories, and skills that shape successful careers and resilient mindsets. Welcome to The Professor's Playbook—where education meets experience!

HOSTED BY

Toby Brooks

CATEGORIES

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does The Professor's Playbook have?

The Professor's Playbook currently has 48 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is The Professor's Playbook about?

The Professor's Playbook is your go-to podcast for insights at the intersection of sports science, education, and motivation. Hosted by Dr. Toby Brooks, this show dives deep into lessons from the classroom, the field, and beyond. Whether you're a student, a professional, or simply curious about the...

How often does The Professor's Playbook release new episodes?

The Professor's Playbook has 48 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to The Professor's Playbook?

You can listen to The Professor's Playbook on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts The Professor's Playbook?

The Professor's Playbook is created and hosted by Toby Brooks.
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