Soul on Ice: The Podcast: Recent Episodes
National Hockey League
Hang out with Kwame Damon Mason, Akil Thomas, Elijah Roberts and their guests as they talk hockey and offer a unique perspective on the game they love, with a little flavor and personality. Mason is the producer and director of Soul on Ice: Past, Present, & Future, Thomas is a LA Kings prospect, and Roberts currently plays for the Ryerson Rams.
Kwame and Jordan are a bit deflated following the Oilers Game 3 loss, but while Kwame is hanging his head low, Jordan is trying to grasp onto any positives that he can. The two go back and forth on the "Edmonton Oil Leak" and Jordan tries to rally the fanbase for the rest of the series. They also discuss the NY Rangers... is Kwame betting against the Lightning? He provides a compelling look at the Eastern Conference Final and he wonders if anyone remembers the Lone Ranger TV show. Well, old man Kwame relates the iconic Lone Ranger character back to the world of hockey. Tune in to also find out Jordan's TV show recommendation of the month....
The Edmonton Oilers are moving onto the Western Conference Final and Jordan is excited to see McDavid take on MacKinnon for a chance to play in the Stanley Cup Final. Kwame and Jordan look back at the second round and debate who scored the most impressive goal, MacKinnon or McDavid? Also, what is Jordan doing in Knoxville, Tennessee and how did he get so JACKED up? Check him out on Instagram @jordanbuhat... The Cup Final is right around the corner.... Remember to subscribe, rate & review.
The second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs are underway, Jordan is excited about the Oilers 2-1 series lead over the Flames and Kwame gives his opinion on trash talking etiquette. Arizona Coyotes forward Boko Imama (17:15) joins the guys to talk about his hockey history, his first game in the show and his first goal. Be sure to subscribe rate and review.
GROWN-ISH star Jordan Buhat joins Kwame to talk about the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs and peak ahead to the second round. The Maple Leafs have (once again) broke Kwame's heart, but he is still smiling... Jordan is pumped that his Edmonton Oilers advanced to the next round and is ready for the Battle of Alberta, you might be surprised on what his prediction is for the rivalry series... He also can't quite put his finger on why he dislikes a certain franchise and talks about his experience filming a horror movie. Remember to subscribe to Soul On Ice: The Podcast and rate & review.
Back at it again, Kwame and Elijah talk about NHL Bound, the new series available on the NHL's YouTube channel (YouTube.com/NHL). Jason Ross Jr. joins to talk (3:55) about making history as the first Black TV play-by-play announcer in the history of the Blackhawks and the youngest play-by-play broadcaster among 32 NHL teams. Ross Jr. talks about his love for hockey, broadcasting, how he got started in the business and his plans to be a role model for other minorities that want to follow in his footsteps.
Kwame is joined by special co-host Jordan Buhat from NHL Fan Fair during All-Star Weekend in Las Vegas. The guys welcome in the subjects of NHL BoundDuante’ Abercrombie and Nathaniel Brooks, two Black hockey coaches chasing their dream to work in the NHL. NHL Bound is a weekly series that chronicles Daunte' and Nathaniel's participation in the Arizona Coyotes’ first-ever coaching internship program, dedicated to creating a deeper pool of diverse talent. Former NHLer Anthony Stewart also drops in for a little fun, he talks about the League's diversity initiatives, proper gambling etiquette and the best part of having All-Star festivities in Las Vegas.
The boys have a pretty direct conversation about the recent racist incidents that occurred in the American Hockey League and the ECHL over the course of the week. The NHL condemned the incidents and Kwame and Elijah Roberts share their thoughts on them. Elijah is pumped about the Vancouver Canucks most recent front-office hires and talks about his experience dealing with Émilie Castonguay. Plus, Kwame is excited for the upcoming Winter Olympics for one reason... what is it? Listen to find out.
Mathieu Joseph, the two-time Stanley Cup wiinner joins the crew to talk about the experience of winning back-to-back stanley cups, his relationship with his younger brother and we find out if he has better music taste than his younger brother (13:07). But first the boys chop it up a bit, Elijah has just gotten over Covid and of course, Akil chimes in with his thoughts. Plus, the boys also discuss the cancellation of World Juniors.
JD Ross of HockeyShot joins (21:45) to talk about synthetic ice and explain how the innovation has been extremely useful to players as they found it more difficult to get traditional ice team during the pandemic. But first.... is Akil hurt again? Did Kwame walk out on Elijah's exhibition game? The boys chop it up and give their two cents on what Kwame calls one of the top 5 NHL goals ever.
For over 40 years, legendary coach Neal Henderson has touched the lives of young people in the Washington, DC area through his youth team, the Fort Dupont Hockey Cannons. Founded to provide inner-city kids the opportunity to play organized hockey, the Cannons are the longest running minority-led hockey program in the country. Kwame talks to Coach about how the program got started and the documentary detailing his life and the kids of the Cannons.
It's a new season of Soul on Ice: The Podcast.... get ready, Season 4 is upon us! Its been a minute, but the boys are back at it as Kwame, Akil, Elijah and Brother B chop it up, talking video games, big goals, new jobs and Connor McDavid... is McDavid the BEST player ever? According to Elijah, there's a difference between BEST & GREATEST. Akil and Elijah are so impressed with McDavid's skill and psyched that McDavid seems to finally be embracing his role as a SUPERSTAR. Kwame puts the guys on notice, how so? Well, let's just say he's VERY proud of what his 4-year-old son is doing on the ice, highlight reel goals already... Kwame is one proud dad. Season 4 is running, so enjoy.
NHL executive Kim Davis joins Kwame to talk about the impact she's had on the League since joining in 2017. She shares her goals for growing the game and how Hockey Is For Everyone has become such a powerful movement and initiative. She also talks about her journey to the NHL and why her experience and unique perspective was coveted and welcomed by the NHL community. Kwame goes one v one with the highest ranking black woman in NHL history, and it's a great conversation.
Saroya Tinker joins to talk about about the Toronto 6ix and some other exciting projects she's working on. Saroya is one of the strongest voices in Women's hockey and she is not afraid to speak her mind, learn about the force that she is in the world of hockey. But first, it's Disability Pride Month and one of the show's favorite people, Chanel Keenan, joins this week to speak about her love for the game, what it means to represent the disabled community in hockey and her gig with the Seattle Kraken.
JT Brown hangs out with the boys again to talk about his big decision to hang up the skates and being hired by the Seattle Kraken as a TV analyst.
But first, Kwame goes one on one with Brian Berger, the SVP of A&R at Beatclub. Brian talks about bringing a fresh sound to the NHL with some of today's hottest young producers.
Founded by Timbaland, Beatclub is the premier global marketplace that connects the music creator community with record labels, music publishers, film & tv, brands, content creators and independent artists. The National Hockey League partnered with Timbaland's Beatclub and will feature Beatclub and Timbaland's vast catalog of exclusive music, beats and songs throughout the duration of the 2020-21 season. (https://beatclub.com)
Time to get the inside scoop with two of Elijah's former teammates, Riley Damiani and Adam Mascherin, stop by to talk about playing in Kitchener with Elijah, playing in the AHL for Dallas and we finally find out how Elijah lost his tooth. But first, Kwame talks about his first time on synthetic ice at the Hockey Shot office (hockeyshot.com), Akil gets to rub in his NHL '21 win over Kwame and Elijah talks about running into wisdom tooth issues.
Damion Thomas from the National Museum Of African American History is and Culture is Kwame's guest to talk about the origin of Juneteenth, the now celebrated American holiday and how it relates to the history of black athletes in hockey. There is also a new exhibit at the museum dedicated to hockey and Damion fills us in how the project began and how it came out.
Taya Currie, the first female o be drafted by an OHL team, joins Kwame and Akil to talk about small town living, the challenges of playing with the boys and the very difficult career decision that she will have to make in the future. Taya also talks about some of the players she's looked up to in the past and reveals some of the people that reached out to her after she was drafted.
Stickhandling specialist Pavel Barber (Kwame found out that isn't his real name) joins to talk about his love for the game and how he is using his stick handling skills to help out the next generation of hockey players. He talks about sharing his skills with current players in the NHL and gives some great advice for parents, we think Akil has found his hockey soulmate. But first, Akil gives us an update on his surgery, Elijah breaks down the OHL draft and Kwame is just Kwame. If you are looking for a great book to read, Pavel suggests The Talent Code by Daniel Coyle
This week, Hip Hop artist BIA joins the podcast (19:00). Hailing from Boston, BIA broke into the music business bringing her Cover Girl swag and catchy lyrics to the game. But speaking of game, she also found a way to catch the attention of the NHL with her song Skate which has been remixed for the 2021 Stanley Cup Playoffs. BIA talks about her love of hockey, the idea for Skate and being the bridge between Hip Hop and Hockey.
But first, Akil returns to talk about the end of his first professional season with the Ontario Reign, his shoulder injury and staying in LA to avoid Elijah.
Randip Janda shares how he is the prefect example of right place, right time and taking advantage of your opportunity. Hockey has done so much for him, it's his first love and he talks about how he and his team are trying to pass that on to the Hockey Night In Canada Punjabi audience.
But first, Kwame can't pick a winner, the boys talk about all that is going on in the first round of the NHL playoffs and what's happening with the Oilers (mind you Elijah called it out). To all our Asian and Pacific Islander listeners we thank you for rocking with us and we celebrate you.
Kwame has said Julie Chu is a top 5 all-time female hockey player and she joins the show to speak about how important it was for her parents to say one simple word "yes" and how important that was for her. Being married to Canadian Olympian Caroline Ouellette must be fun especially during Olympic times, imagine playing against your partner? One of the best conversations with one of the best in the game. But first, Kwame, Elijah and Brother B chop it up about the playoff brackets and Elijah shares his plans to get back in hockey shape for next year's University season.
Luc Robitaille joins the show to talk about the power of having a strong work ethic and why he hired Blake Bolden. He shares some Wayne Gretzky stories and discusses playing in Game 7 of the 1993 Western Conference Final against the Toronto Maple Leafs. He discusses the growth of the game and the future of Kings prospects Akil Thomas and Quinton Byfield. But first; Elijah shares his thoughts on the upcoming Stanley Cup Playoffs and Kwame welcomes Hockey 4 Youth founder Moe Hasham to the show to talk about his passion for hockey and the work he is doing with boys and girls that are playing hockey. https://hockey4youth.org
Kenan Thompson, the longest running cast member of SNL joins the show (14:30) to talk about his time filming The Mighty Ducks, being on Saturday Night Live for 18 seasons and his new venture starring in his own show. Kenan also talks current hockey and Kwame gets him to bring out one of his favourite characters. But first, Brother B joins the show as Akil is off being a hockey guy, Elijah is now a model for Zale apparel. This is going down as a classic.
the Get Busy Crew is back with Anthony Duclair, a conversation the boys have been waiting to have for a while. But first, Elijah finishes his first year in University, the boys vent about MGM not even getting a tryout with Team Canada's Woman's team and the news that the tournament was cancelled. Brother B joins the conversation to talk about the Green initiative from the Seattle Kraken.
Jordan Buhat from Grown-ish joins the show to talk about being an actor on a hit show. From Edmonton, Canada he discusses working hard at his craft and hitting it big. Jordan also shares his hockey knowledge and love for the game. But first the boys talk about their friendly competition on NHL 21 and young Akil talks about getting his Covid shot.
Meghan Chayka joins the conversation. Meghan breaks down her company Stathletes and how it is the future of pro sports. The conversation goes in so many directions and Kwame rates this episode as one of the best yet.
But first, who has a cleaner room Akil or Elijah? And the boys talk about one of the greats in Hip Hop, this episode is dedicated to DMX
Big shout out to all the trainers out there, Akil and Elijah break down why it is important for young players to be nice to their trainers, you might get some extra perks. Trade deadline is around the corner and Elijah has a few thoughts on what some teams could do. Kwame talks about being petty and Brother B drops a sick top 5.
On their one year anniversary the guys are joined by Quinton Byfield, Bokondji Imama, and Devonte Smith-Pelly. The Ontario Reign are in the house to talk about their historic game, playing together and the impact their presence on the ice will have on the game. Before that conversation, the guys talk online hockey, Boston Pride and give a shout out to Kelsey Koelzer on her new position with the NWHL. Also Saroya Tinker is taking her art to another level with Pantink, have a look at @saroyatinker71
Akil, Kwame and Elijah take some time to catch up, just the 3 of them. Akil shares his experience coming off a historic game with the Ontario Reign, Kwame has given up on NHL 21, Elijah talks NCAA, cooking and losing a boxing match against his younger brother (not sure why he's boxing but whatever) and for the first time, Brother B joins the conversation. The Get Busy Boyz also share a combined top 5 song list.
Jessica Platt joins the podcast, as the first openly transgender woman to play in the CWHL before it folded, Jessica shares her story and advice. Representation matters and Jessica shares why.
But first, Elijah and Kwame share Walter Gretzky stories, sounds like Kwame is giving up on the Chel challenge and GM Elijah speaks on some tips for teams ahead of the trade deadline.
Joining the SOI crew this week is Tampa Bay Lightning anthem singer Sonya Bryson-Kirksey. Sonya talks about becoming the anthem voice for the Lightning, what the Anthem means to her and how she became one of the most devoted Tampa Bay fans. Sonya shares a message on how you can learn more about MS and help by going to mssociety.com as well as msfoundation.com...... P.S. Kwame does a little singing of his own (it's not very good)
Before chatting with Sonya, Elijah claims to be the best at NHL 21, Akil looks like he went 3 rounds with Mike Tyson and a special shout out to some of the top 25 most influential ladies in hockey.
There is a storm coming and she's called MGM. Mikyla chops it up with the guys to speak about her experience playing with the Toronto 6ix as well has her hopes and dreams to not only continue playing professional Womens hockey, but to play for her country one day, wink wink Team Canada.
But first, Akil owes Kwame and apology, a black history month recap and Elijah has to go because he's studying for exams.
Nigel and Frantz are two coaches from the Stanley Cup Champion Tampa Bay Lightning that you probably never heard of. Nigel is the Lightning video coach and Frantz is the goalie coach. They join the show to talk about winning the Stanley Cup and their experiences as coaches of colour. Plus, they explain how the game has changed from when they first started in hockey. Before they join, the boys chop it up about Kwame's Canadian debut of Soul On Ice Past, Present & Future on Sportsnet, Akil shares a gross ritual and Elijah once again shows he's got the gift of how to pick em.
https://gooddeedscup.chevrolet.ca
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20 years ago Sean Brown, Georges Laraque, Mike Grier, Anson Carter and Joaquin Gage played on the Edmonton Oilers, why is this a big deal? Well it is the first time in NHL history that 5 Black players played on the same team. For them it wasn't a big deal, but the more people started to talk about it, the more they realized how special it all was. This week, 3 of the 5 guys sit down with the boys to talk about that great experience and reminisce about the good old days. Before the conversation, Elijah fills the audience in on some great minor league Canadian hockey news and lets everyone know why he's the sports brain of the team, Kwame answers a question from the audience and Akil is up to his old tricks again.
We have some queens of the game taking over the podcast. Kelsey Kolzer, Blake Bolden, Saroya Tinker and Sarah Nurse kick Akil, Elijah and Kwame off their own show for a special episode with special guest and Hall Of Fame inductee Angela James. AJ joins the conversation to talk about growing up playing hockey, the disappointment of not making team Canada and the joy of being a mother and coaching young girls of colour. But first Blake, Saroya, Sarah and Kelsey chat it up about how they have been keeping busy, the state of women’s hockey and the joy they have being sisters in the game. Shout out and congrats to Blake Bolden on her first signature hockey stick from Verbero. Pick yours up at: https://www.verbero.com/pages/blake-bolden
It's our first show of Black History Month and we start it off with two guys who held down what many say is the toughest job in hockey. Darren Banks and Peter Worrel join the conversation with the crew. They provide a great perspective on the future of hockey for minority players. Peter shares some deep stories of bigotry that he felt made him a better person and Darren explains why he loved being a journeyman.
Before Darren and Peter, the guys talk shop, P.O Joseph has been killing it and there is a female player that is making a name for herself. Also Elijah our sports guru gives his Super Bowl prediction.
For more information about the Pittsburgh Penquins Black History Month celebrations go to: https://www.nhl.com/penguins/news/penguins-announce-weekly-plans-february-black-history-month/c-320856166
Al Montoya joins the conversation to speak about his early beginnings as young goalie from Chicago. Al shares stories of growing up as a kid from an immigrant family, plus, he talks about a Goalie fight he once had. Before Al, Akil talks about his first shootout goal as a pro and the boys talk about the upcoming Black History Month. We can't forget to mention Akil and Elijah make their Hip Hop video debut. "Legacy" from the album with the same name, look out for the video released this Friday. To hear the song and album go to:
Legacy the LP
https://ampl.ink/jEDww
The boys are back!! Elijah, Akil and Kwame are back for another season and to start it off they catch up on some straight hockey talk. Elijah demonstrates why one day he will be a GM of an NHL team. Akil reveals that he just started watching Game of Thrones now, a little late Akil.... and Kwame is making up new hockey terms, while Akil and Elijah set him straight. Next week we return with a guest, but for now, enjoy the Old man and the Get Busy Boys
2020 has been one crazy year, but we all need to find something we can be grateful for. Akil, Elijah and Kwame are grateful to be able to share their thoughts and be a part of the podcast world each week with great guests.
This episode is pt 2 of the year's recap and sharing some special clips from past guests Cabbie, Joel Ward and the NHL commissioner Gary Bettman.
The boys also get to talk about World Jr's as well as the new Zale apparel t-shirt available while supplies last so go to zaleapparel.com before these limited edition shirts are gone.
PS! The boys are in a new music video coming out soon get ready for it.
2020 has been a hard year for a lot of us but we also have to look at the positive. Kwame, Akil and Elijah want to thank everyone for joining the podcast every week. On this week's episode Kwame gives us a quick look back at some of the highlights of the past year. We'll be back with season 2 soon but for now enjoy some clips from guest like Brian Burke, Evander Kane, Georges Laraque, Sarah Nurse and more.
Be sure to also check out the Soul on ice IG page made by Brother B who you can also find on IG @ briandelumpa
Returning to the show for the season finale is fan favorite Joel Ward here to talk about his new job as assistant coach in the AHL. Wardo also shares some deep thoughts about his time in the NHL and the feeling of being isolated and the hope that the next generation of young players of color is in a place where they don't have to feel that way.
But first the boys chop it up and Akil talks about a great new initiative he and his mother are starting with children in Africa.
Go to the instagram page: project.ghana.2020
Kwame goes one on one to find out a little more about how Gary Bettman became the most powerful man in hockey. Todays 1v1 is all about getting to know Gary Bettman. From his childhood, to attending law school, working at the NBA to now being the Commissioner of the NHL, this conversation with Gary Bettman is an excellent listen!
Minnesota Wild defenseman and all-around good gy Matt Dumba joins the show this week. Matt talks about about training with Austin Mathews, Anthony Duclair and Connor McDavid. He also shares some of his ideas about growing the game of hockey and his speech during the playoffs that impacted the hockey world. Dumba also has some fashion tips for Akil. Wait did Akil talk greasy to Dumba and is Dumba gonna take it?
But first, Jasper Weatherby and Jacob Bernard-Docker talk about the decision to kneel during the nation anthem of their season opener. Get to know some brave young players.
This 1v1 with Kwame is a little different because he's not only joined by one but 5 amazing females that are making major moves in the hockey. Sarah Nurse, Kianna Scott, Blake Bolden Kelsey Kolzer and Saroya Tinker join the conversation. These ladies talk about their careers in hockey and the change that is coming. Each of these ladies are proud to be pioneers and it's time for them to share their stories.
One of the most decorated Hockey broadcasters in the business joins the crew. His new book is called EVERYDAY HOCKEY HEROS and Bob chats with the boys about his first chapter which deals with racism in hockey from the view point of two guys he played with as a kid. They also talk about World Juniors and Bob gives Akil some props on his game winning goal in the World Juniors.
But first, Akil is almost done in Germany, Elijah found his tooth and Kwame discusses the fight between Mike Tyson and Roy Jones Jr. and sheds some light on how the fight had a surprising hockey connection.
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I bet you think we wouldn't be able to get Burkie to do a top 5 song list huh? Well, we did. Brian Burke aka Burkie joins the show today to speak about his new book Burke's Law which is available right now. From his early days playing hard nose hockey in Minnesota to moving up the ranks in the NHL, Brian shares some great stories and a side of himself rarely seen. He also shares some of the do's and dont's for any player hoping to make it into the NHL. And Yes!!!! We got his top 5 Hype songs and they are heavy.
Before the interview with Brian, the boys switch it up a bit and joining the guys are Akil's roommates in Germany, Adan Dudas (who Kwame thinks is Jamaican) and Jacob Ingham. Together these 3 LA Kings prospects have a blast spilling each other's secrets as roommates. It's all in good fun boys.
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The Perfect Package 3.0 comes with the new and improved Lawn Mower™ waterproof, cordless body trimmer, performance boxer briefs that I am wearing right now as we record the show, and a Travel Bag for you to use when we’re done quarantining.
November is Hockey fights Cancer Month and this week's episode is dedicated to the warriors we have lost to this battle, including Pat Burns, Bryan Murray, Ed Snider, Dale Hawerchuk and Trudy Daley just to name a few. We also celebrate those who have fought this terrible disease. Eddie Olczyk joins us to talk about his early career in hockey, being apart of the Stanley Cup Champion 1994 New York Rangers, and his journey battling stage 3 colon cancer. He shares his inspirational story for all to hear and learn from. Joining Eddie is his Oncologist Dr Mary Mulcahy. She joins the conversation to share key information on how we can all stay on top of our health.
Before Edzo, Owen Brady joins the crew. Brady is a young man who fought to overcome cancer and get back on the ice despite the Doctors saying he would never play again.
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This week's guest is a special one for the boys, he has impacted both of them in one way or another. Two-time Stanley Cup winner Trevor Daley joins the show to talk about his involvement in the HDA (Hockey Diversity Alliance) growing up in Toronto and the lessons he learned from his mother Trudy Daley (Rest in Peace). Akil and Trevor share great stories of how they are and have been connected, and we also find out what is next for him in retirement. Trevor also shares how great it was to win two Stanley Cups and we find out if he knew if Sidney Crosby was going to hand him the cup first.
But first someone forgot Kwame’s birthday, and Kwame talks one on one with Coach Rock from DC Mamba in Washington DC
The Washington Capitals just announced Breaking The Ice, a new program designed to introduce first-time hockey players to the game at home, featuring an instructional video series led by the Black-owned non-profit Dc Mamba. Through Breaking The Ice, conducted in partnership with the NHL, NHLPA and Franklin Sports, the Capitals will provide a low-cost street hockey equipment set to program registrants. The program is designed for kids ages fourteen and younger. Coach Rock joins the podcast to speak more about the program and all you’ll need to know about it. For more information check them out here.
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He is never short for words, he is never short on stories and on this episode he doesn't disappoint. Joining the crew is one of the toughest, most loveable guys to have the role of enforcer in the NHL. Big Georges Laraque is in the house and he shares some great stories. Coming from humble beginnings in Montreal, Canada, his parents said if you want to play hockey you are on your own... he was 7 years old and he had something to prove to his parents and to the people in the stands who called him the N word, which drove his parents out to the arena. He also shares some great stories about meeting Rappers and having a blast playing in Edmonton for the Oilers as well as for the first time speaking about the Sean Avery incident.
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JT brown joins the show once again to speak about the gaming world and how he has been doing since the NHL pause. JT is a free-agent and he fills us in on his future hopes and talks about what it takes to be a great teammate and speaking up on social justice issues. Kwame also shares his Biggie Smalls encounter, but with no photo do we think the story in legit, you decide. Before JT, Akil gives us an update rom Germany and man oh man is he looking big in his new uniform.
We also want to welcome MANSCAPED to the SOUL family, they are offering a great deal on their Perfect package 3.0 travel kit, use the promo code SOUL when you go to MANSCAPED.com for 20% off, plus free shipping. Great gift for the holiday season coming up. Keep the boys fresh with MANSCAPED. Learn more at MANSCAPED.com
Quinton Byfield became the highest drafted black athlete in the history of the NHL. QB is what they call him and he joins the crew to talk about draft day, bowties, video games and what it means too potentially be called a King. Q and Akil also share some interesting facts behind being drafted and their shared nervous experience during their draft interview. Before Byfield, Akil and Elijah once again start talking trash because EA Sports NHL 21 is out and the fight for who is best is up for grabs. Will Kwame join in? That would mean changing consoles... Kwame will keep you posted.
What can we say about today’s 1v1 guest? He was the first black athlete to play in the NHL, he’s been an ambassador for the NHL for the past 30 years, he was just inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame, he’s been in two documentaries and has just released his book "Willie". Kwame goes 1v1 with icon Willie O’Ree. Wille talks about his parents and his two siblings who helped shaped his life. He also talks about his relationship with commissioner Gary Bettman and all the lives he’s been able to touch. He just turned 85 years young so learn something new about Willie O’Ree.
Last week at the NHL Draft Zayde Wisdom's dream came true, and he joined the guys today to talk about his journey. Before the REAL interview with Zayde starts, Kwame kept the tape rolling and captured some candid conversation before formally introducing Zayde to the audience (8:45). Zayde shares his excitement and talks about some of the hardships he faced that made him the man he is today. But first, guess who's back? Akil joins the crew from Germany and fills us in on his status and how Covid 19 has affected his situation. Also he is offering all listeners 40% off Zale clothing, all you have to do is go to zaleapparel.com and use the code ZAYDEWISDOM. Take advantage of the offer, available until October 16th.
Time to get to know Dylan DeMelo, with free agency coming, Dylan talks about his future, learning from guys like Joel Ward and Joe Thorton and his time with the Sharks. DeMelo shares how proud he is of his friend Bobby Ryan and talks about his time in London ON and what it was like in the NHL bubble.
Before Dylan, Elijah and Kwame talk about the 5th anniversary of the documentary Soul On Ice: Past, Present and Future. Kwame looks back at the film that changed his life and what the future holds.
He had one of the toughest jobs in hockey, the enforcer. Val James joins the show to speak about his unlikely run as a professional player in the NHL and AHL. Val shares some personal stores of how tough it was to play hockey in the 70's and 80's as one of the very few black athletes and also the racial issues that led him to stay away from the game for over a decade until he had the courage to write his story in the book entitled Black Ice: The Val James Story. Before Val, Akil Thomas is now in Germany so Elijah is left to fill us in on how things are going in Toronto and starting out on his University team Ryerson. As always make sure you get your fall and winter gear at zaleapparel.com and support the clothing line started by Akil Thomas
Nick Suzuki of the Montreal Canadiens hangs out with Elijah and Kwame. In his first playoffs he's already made a name for himself and now he's taking some time out from golfing in London, Ontario to talk with the guys about bubble life, playing Jr. hockey and the state of the game right now. Fun fact he's related to a very famous environmentalists in Canada, can you guess who? Before Nick joins the pod, Akil shares some great news, he is on his way to Germany to play some hockey for a few months. How will Akil take advantage of this opportunity?
From Brooks, Alberta Canada to the biggest platform in Canadian Hockey broadcasting, Kwame chats with Hockey Night In Canada Punjabi host Harnarayan Singh, his first 1v1 guest on the podcast. Singh has a new book coming out called One Game At A Time. The book chronicles his path from being the son of an immigrant family, to delivering one of the most iconic hockey calls in history. Can you say Bonino 5 times fast?
To get exceptional status in the OHL you have to be a special young player like Connor McDavid. Shane Wright is the 5th player ever to get the “exceptional” status and he joins the guys to talk about playing in the "O" and breaking the rookie scoring record. Wright also talks about his goals as a young player and shares how he scored a goal right off the draw against Akil Thomas. This is a young player that the hockey world will be talking about in the future and the guys are glad to have a chat with him. Before Wright, the guys talk about the Raptors loss in game 7, Akil shares his thoughts on the upcoming NHL draft and Kwame gives away a sockey (yes you'll have to listen to know what that is or just check out Sockey.com)
One of the funniest broadcasters in the business sits down with the boys to talk about his time at SportsNet and TSN in Toronto. Cabbie talks about going from Cabbie in the Streets to Bleacher Report. He talks about his relationship with Kobe Bryant and explains why Brendan Shanahan won't give him access to Toronto’s leading stars. But first Kwame goes 1v1 with the group MY LUNG CHALLENGE to speak about how you can meet the father of the great one, Walter Gretzky, while staying heathy and doing a great deed https://lunghealth.ca/mylunglife/ The guys talk about Akil's road trip to LA as Elijah becomes an adult with his first apartment in Toronto getting ready for University life. Oh how they grow up so fast.
Kwame discusses the sad passing of actor Chadwick Boseman and the death of Jacob Blake. The time for action is now and Kwame and Elijah chat about their feelings and hopes for the future. While Akil is on his way to Los Angeles, Kwame and Elijah welcome Sean Ramjagsingh to the podcast, Sean leads the EA Sports NHL Franchise (24:00). Sean talks about some of the behind the scenes of creating the new NHL game, how social issues have changed the way they approach gaming in the hockey space and also some of the exciting changes in the game this year.
You may not have heard of him but he plans on changing that in the future. Pierre-Olivier Joseph joins the crew to talk about about growing up in Quebec, Canada and the sibling rivalry between him and his older brother Mathieu Joseph, who plays for the Tampa Bay Lightning (11:45). He also talks about what life was like inside the NHL bubble, getting drafted and then getting traded early on in his professional career. P-O shares his top 5 and surprises the boys with the fact that he has the ability to carry a tune. Before the interview, Kwame, Akil and Elijah talk about the playoffs, E is a heavy supporter of Vancouver and Akil talks about the player that is dominant right now.
Broadcaster Everett Fitzhugh, recently hired by the Seattle Kraken, joins the pod to talk about his new gig and making the move to the NHL (11:30). It's an interesting conversation as Fitzhugh talks about family, being adopted and how that experience shaped him in life. He shares some important lessons provided by his mother and discusses being bullied in Detroit because he liked hockey. He also explains how his experience in the ECHL with the Cincinnati Cyclones has prepared him for this new journey as an NHL broadcaster. Cyclones assistant coach Jason Payne makes a surprise appearance to give the boys the inside scoop on Everett and explain what Kraken fans can expect. Before chatting with Fitzhugh, Akil and Elijah go at each other, this time it looks like E has a new nickname. Akil shares his new tattoo and Elijah talks about a star studded 3 on 3 tournament he has organized that is coming up. Oh yea, he also learns a new word.
Time to get Bizzy with Paul Bissonnette as he joins the crew to talk about everything from the origin of his nickname “Biz Nasty” to the formation of the world’s most famous hockey podcast Spittin' Chiclets (15:00). There is a lot to learn about Biz who is very candid about his early days playing junior hockey, and the grind of being a NHL enforcer. He also explains how he found success after his playing days and how he had to convince Ryan Whitney to start the successful Pink Whitney beverage. Before Paul, the boys talk about the qualifying round and the emotional roller coaster that it was. Time for some playoff picks, the boys reveal who they have in the first round of the playoffs and hopefully Kwame will do better this time around.
Back for another one, the boys discuss the NHL's return to play and all the exciting hockey this past weekend, all the moments that stood out to them on and off the ice. Speaking of off the ice… Kwame, Akil, and Elijah discuss Matt Dumba's brave speech on race in the game and society. Then, joining the show are siblings Kendall Boyd-Tyson (VP of Strategy and Analytics) and Kyle Boyd (Director of Youth and Community Development) from the Seattle Kraken to discuss the enormous impact the organization is having on the hockey world (21:44). The two talk about how they plan on being a leading social force in the NHL. Look out cause it's time to Release the Kraken (cheesy I know, but we had to say it).
To maintain dominance on the ice you need to work with the best on off-days, that's where Derrell Levy of In-Tech High Performance comes in. Derrell joins the conversation to talk about his road to becoming one of the top trainers in the NHL. He’s worked with Trevor Daley, Luke Gazdic, Gemel and Givani Smith and others. Derrell talks about challenging and beating Anson Carter in a race as a youngster and competing in the Red Bull Crashed Ice league. He chats about working with athletes in China to help develop their hockey program (Kwame feels like if China beats Team Canada this is grounds for Levi's passport removal) Before the interview, the boys talk about the League’s return to play and the latest news on the preparations being made in Toronto and Edmonton. They also make their playoff picks for the first round and make a friendly bet. They chat about the Seattle Kraken and the potential impact the newly minted franchise may have on the culture of hockey.
Kwame Mason, Akil Thomas and Elijah Roberts discuss joining the NHL family of podcasts and explain how a “joke” turned into an NHL backed project. Kwame is joined by Evander Kane, Connor Carrick and Jaccob Slavin (13:15). They talk about social justice, the importance of being allies and the growth of the game. Kane discusses the challenges he has faced since being drafted and how he ultimately found his voice and used his past experiences as a player to advocate for positive change within the sport. Carrick and Slavin both openly recognize the specific work and action that needs to take place among white players to drive change and stand united for social justice. Slavin talks about how adopting a black daughter has helped him think about past issues related to social justice and how critical it is for all NHL players to truly listen to the experiences of people of color to completely understand their perspective.
The crew gets together to welcome all the first time listeners and to do as Jay-Z said “allow me to reintroduce” ourselves… Kwame, Akil and Elijah chat about who they are, how they came together to start a new movement, and why their voices are important in the hockey world.
Joining the podcast this week is former first round pick and NHLer Anthony Stewart (23:35). Stewie shares some of his ideas on how he’d like to see the game grow. He also talks about playing on one of the dominant Team Canada squads in history. The guys talk about the person in the NHL that is making more money than a single team, and share their choices for the best R&B singer.
David Amber joins the guys to talk about his path to becoming a broadcaster, and how he became an award winning writer in the USA. He looks back at some of his favorite sports moments and explains how lucky he’s been to witness so many great moments (18:06). The guys talk about their photoshoot and the upcoming NHL Draft Lottery.
Mark Fraser and Erik Gudbranson join the podcast to talk about their friendship, race and how we as a society can be better. They take a few minutes to share what their top five songs are to listen to before a game (22:00). The guys start the episode talking to Jesse Kirshenbaum from BarDown. Jesse discusses the initiative to help fight bigotry in hockey with the Hockey Diversity Alliance Fundraiser (2:00).
Grant Fuhr joins the guys to talk about his time with the Edmonton Oilers, winning 5 Stanley Cups, and the current state of hockey and race. He also talks about why he wanted to coach in the the new 3 on 3 hockey league that launches in 2021 (10:50). The guys welcome Brother B. to the show… Brian Delumpa is a graphic designer and will be in charge of all things social media related to the podcast.
Joining the crew is Givani Smith from the Detroit Red Wings. He talks about making it to the NHL and what made his journey to the League so special. He shares some important lessons for young players of color and looks back at his own personal experiences in the sport (15:22). Before their conversation with Smith, the boys talk to Kishaun Gervais, Zack Stringer, Mekai Sanders, Koletrane Wilson, Montana Onyebuchi, Tyson Greenway and Justin Sourdif about the video they released showing their support for the Black Lives Matter movement. Kwamster’s Lyric of the Week: “Sunshine plays a major part in the day time” - Wu Tang Clan