The Hockey Think Tank Podcast: Recent Episodes
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The Hockey Think Tank Podcast brings incredible stories, interviews, and great perspective from some of the top hockey minds in the game. Hosted by Topher Scott & Jeff LoVecchio, our podcast will educate and inspire all those that love the game! For all the players, coaches, and hockey parents out there...make this your Go-To show on your way to the rink!
On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about how to create change on a micro level right where you’re at. There are so many good people in hockey, so why is it so messed up? Let’s talk about how to start creating some positive change in your environment.
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about free ice, stick & pucks, skate & shoot… whatever you know it as. If you have ever found yourself at an unstructured ice session and didn’t know what to work on or do, this episode is for you!
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This week Topher talks with Jamie Rice, head coach of the Babson College D3 Men’s Ice Hockey team. Rice is a 3x Conference Coach of the Year, and this episode is a clear indicator as to why. We come together to talk about our common goal of making the hockey world a better and more positive place.
In this episode we talk about:
— “Sending your players home with a smile, but also a sweat on their brow”
— Recognizing that there’s no going back to the community model, but addressing what we can do to help
— Creating an environment that players have a connection to for the rest of their lives
— Passion fueling success: if you’re not passionate about something don’t do it
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar!
And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites!
If you’d like to join our Hockey Think Tank Community, head over to Community.TheHockeyThinkTank.com and check it out!
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On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about how it takes a village to be successful in today’s game. Some of the most recent NHL award winners, including Spencer Carbery and Aleksander Barkov, are perfect examples of the fact that nobody ever achieves anything great alone.
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about team toughness and how it makes your team unstoppable. We use this year’s Florida Panthers as an example of what it means to be a tough team to play against.
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This week Topher flies solo to talk in person with Tom Peffall, the head coach-in-waiting for Mercyhurst University’s Division I Men’s Ice Hockey team. We’ve talked a lot on the podcast about the different paths for players to higher level hockey, it’s time we talk about the unique paths for coaches too.
In this episode we talk about:
— Building a relationship with your players to encourage their compete level
— Peffall’s unique coaching career path
— The major changes to the college hockey landscape and how it’s affecting recruiting strategy
— How to adapt your coaching style at different levels and working your way up
— How to get your foot in the door and finding the right opportunities
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar!
And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites!
If you’d like to join our Hockey Think Tank Community, head over to Community.TheHockeyThinkTank.com and check it out!
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On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about sticking up for your teammates on the ice. Even though the physicality changes at each level, the common factor across all age groups is how important it is for culture and making your team feel close.
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Vechs wants to talk about what he calls “flow drills” and what Toph calls “skill drills.” We discuss what they are, what to include, and when to incorporate them into your practices.
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This week Topher and Jeff talk with Dave Hanson and his son, Christian Hanson. Dave is best known for his role as one of the Hanson brothers in the 1977 classic hockey movie, Slap Shot. This episode is a must listen for fans of the movie and for parents navigating the youth hockey journey.
In this episode we talk about:
— The importance of taking off your coaching/parenting hat and just being there for your kid
— How much we encourage parents to get involved in any capacity
— Not using a scholarship or contract to exclusively motivate your involvement in youth sports
— A behind the scenes look from Dave Hanson on making the movie Slap Shot
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar!
And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites!
If you’d like to join our Hockey Think Tank Community, head over to Community.TheHockeyThinkTank.com and check it out!
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On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about the pros and cons of having parent vs non parent coaches for your youth hockey team. We know the hockey community feels strongly about this one, so listen up as we discuss this hot topic.
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about what the royal road is and how making a play across it significantly increases your chances of scoring.
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This week Topher and Jeff fly solo to break down the various development paths to the top league in the world. There were 288 American players that played at least one game in the NHL during the 2023-2024 season. Topher spent months researching the trends that got those players to the highest level of professional hockey. We hear so much from parents and coaches about the pressure to follow a specific journey in order to play in the NHL; so we set out to show you that everyone has a different path.
In this episode we talk about:
— The relative age effect: Does being born at the beginning of the year give you a better chance?
— How much time did players spend “marinating” at lower levels?
— Is getting drafted beneficial?
— Is playing a certain position beneficial?
— Does a certain region of the country produce more NHL players?
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar!
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THE US BORN PLAYERS' PATH TO THE NHL BLOG POST
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On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about the Toronto Maple Leafs and their unfortunate recent playoff runs.
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about how to defend the front of the net. Last week we talked about scoring garbage goals, so now let’s discuss how to defend against them.
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This week Topher and Jeff fly solo to talk about the 7 environmental factors crucial for players to develop. We encourage parents to join an organization/team that provides this atmosphere to help your child succeed and encourage coaches to help provide that environment. Listen as we break down how to set up an environment where players can develop to the best of their abilities:
— Establish a relationship
— Vulnerability as a coach
— Be prepared, but be flexible
— Competition
— Be authentic
— Resilience
— Set the standard high with players
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar!
And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites!
If you’d like to join our Hockey Think Tank Community, head over to Community.TheHockeyThinkTank.com and check it out!
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On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about postgame speeches and what you’ve gotta include. Be authentic and always go back to your process and your identity.
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about a topic one of our listeners suggested: garbage goals. We define what they are, how to score more of them, and how to have that scoring mentality.
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This week Topher and Jeff talk with Pat Ferschweiler, Western Michigan Broncos men’s ice hockey head coach and 2025 Frozen Four Men’s Ice Hockey Championship winner. Fersch joins us on the pod to talk about what it takes to win it all.
In this episode we talk about:
— How the men’s ice hockey team won the title without any NIL money
— That no matter how good you were, you have to be better than your previous year
— How coaches shouldn’t have to coach effort
— How to keep players emotionally engaged
— Knowing how hard to push your players
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar!
And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites!
If you’d like to join our Hockey Think Tank Community, head over to Community.TheHockeyThinkTank.com and check it out!
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On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about head shots from hits. We’ve seen a few in the past couple of weeks in the NHL playoffs, so let’s talk about them.
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about a question submitted by one of our listeners; “How do you help skilled players with low confidence in their own skills?” We discuss what to do when they look good in practice, but can’t seem to replicate their skills in a game.
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This week Topher and Jeff talk with Mike McGinnis, player development coach with NorCan Hockey. Using his experience with Hockey Alberta and his current business, McGinnis provided us with some great insight regarding the modern aspects of the game.
In this episode we talk about:
— The importance of being able to stick handle by feel, and not needing to look at the puck
— Modern vs “old-school” shooting techniques
— How 60% of NHL passes are contested, so you should include contested passes in practices
— Having a balance of unstructured play and structured practice to not create bad habits
— Comparing Scandinavian to North American development models
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar!
And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites!
If you’d like to join our Hockey Think Tank Community, head over to Community.TheHockeyThinkTank.com and check it out!
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On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about the decline of recreational and house league hockey. There is an immense pressure to jump to the next level as quickly as possible, so we’re seeing a large gap between Learn to Play and what's next. Let’s talk about how this is affecting our sport.
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about one of the most important things every player needs: a high compete level. What does that mean? Let’s talk about it!
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This week Topher and Jeff talk with Steve Thompson, Manager of Player Development for Goaltending for USA Hockey. Thompson played college hockey at the University of Alaska Fairbanks and now is an integral part of USA Hockey’s goaltending development. This episode has so many great nuggets not just for our goalies, but coaches, parents, and players too!
In this episode we talk about:
— Thompson’s unique experience at the Beijing Olympics having to quarantine because of Covid
— Advice for non-goalie coaches to help their goalies in games, practices, etc.
— The shortage of goaltenders and why it is a big deal
— How goalies should choose what team to play for
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar!
And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites!
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On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about resting players going into the playoffs. Join us for this controversial topic on whether or not the best players should sit the final games of the season in order to prepare for the post season. As always, head to our socials and tell us your thoughts on this topic!
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about getting the puck to the middle of the ice. We discuss why it is so important and how it can help you in different areas of the game.
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This week Topher and Jeff talk with Paul Caufield, dad to Cole Caufield of the NHL Montreal Canadiens. Caufield not only played hockey himself, but also coached and still runs a rink in Stevens Point, Wisconsin.
In this episode we talk about:
— Caufield’s family and their rich history with hockey
— An inside look into how Cole Caufield developed his love for the game
— That practice is just as, if not more important than games
— Developing confidence through other sports
— How hockey IQ needs to be taught at 10/12U before the game gets too fast
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar!
And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites!
If you’d like to join our Hockey Think Tank Community, head over to Community.TheHockeyThinkTank.com and check it out!
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On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about balancing individual ambition with wanting to win and being a good teammate. We use Washington Capitals Alex Ovechkin’s latest breaking record to talk about this topic.
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about offensive 3 on 2s. We discuss best strategies and how to work on them in practice.
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This week Topher talks with Lindsey Wilson, current Mental Performance Coach and former college and professional basketball player. She is the founder of Positive Performance™ and The Mindset Coach Academy™ where she helps aspiring mental performance coaches start their dream business and impact lives.
In this episode we talk about:
— Who you are becoming while you try to achieve your goals
— The importance of a leader leading by example
— How to best support your coaches, so that they don’t feel overwhelmed
— How the best athletes in the world have learned how to self evaluate
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar!
And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites!
If you’d like to join our Hockey Think Tank Community, head over to Community.TheHockeyThinkTank.com and check it out!
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On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Vechs wants to talk about when or if you should play up a level. We discuss not only the physical pressure, but also the emotions behind playing outside your age bracket.
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about how to challenge the kids that are naturally good at hockey and things come easy to them. Sometimes it can be difficult to motivate them because they don’t have to try as hard as their teammates, so here are some of our ideas to help them.
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This week Topher and Jeff sit down for a mailbag episode to answer some of the questions our listeners have submitted recently. If you have a question you’d like for us to answer, DM us on our socials and we’ll include it in our next mailbag episode!
In this episode we talk about:
— “Should I post my kid’s clips to social media to get seen?”
— “How do you deal with toxic teammates?”
— “How do you encourage smaller players when others underestimate them?”
— The changing landscape of college hockey
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar!
And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites!
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USA HOCKEY'S NDL FAQS
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On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about how to support and talk to your player when you don’t have a hockey background or know the game.
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about the importance of incorporating races and battles to make your practices better and more game-like.
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This week Topher talks with Barry Smith, 7 time Stanley Cup winning NHL coach. Smith shared some of his extensive hockey knowledge with us and what he’s learned in his years working with Scotty Bowman and numerous other NHL Hall of Famers.
In this episode we talk about:
— Improving game performance by replicating the game in practice
— Introducing contact younger, so that players don’t have to think about it later
— How there are a lot of skilled players, but not smart players
— Smith’s personal experience in the NHL
— How players can’t be fearful of losing & the need to find ways to reward players other than winning the game
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar!
And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites!
If you’d like to join our Hockey Think Tank Community, head over to Community.TheHockeyThinkTank.com and check it out!
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On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about the biggest taboo topic in youth hockey: the money. One of our listeners asked what the normal practice is for financial transparency in youth organizations, so let’s get to it!
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about the important habits and concepts you need to know when the puck goes low to high in the zone, both offensively and defensively.
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This week Topher and Jeff talk with Jesse Hale, the general manager of the Calgary Northstars, a Tier 1 organization in Calgary, Alberta. Hale has worked with Hockey Canada and Hockey Alberta, and now runs one of the youth organizations that we work with in our Youth Organization Blueprint.
In this episode we talk about:
— How to get your foot in the door professionally
— Not just running a drill to run a drill
— Coaching the coaches and the importance of having your coaching team on the same page
— Hockey Alberta’s commitment to development for not only the players, but also the coaches
— The importance of parent education
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar!
And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites!
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On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about the exciting and contentious landscape of the NHL trade deadline. We discuss some of the most recent trades this season and get an inside look of the emotions behind the trade deadline.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about the crucial timing of pulling your goalie to help win the game.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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As we begin to wrap up our second season of working with multiple youth hockey organizations across North America, this week Topher and Jeff talk about the top 10 things they’ve learned about youth hockey this year. Special thanks to all of the organizations we have worked with in our Youth Hockey Organization Blueprint. If you feel like your organization or team could benefit from working with us, check out the referral link below!
BLUEPRINT ORGANIZATION REFERRAL
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On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about when and how often you should be playing different positions. Should you specialize in forward or defense at a certain age? Let’s talk about it!
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about how to handle being a healthy scratch, both emotionally and physically.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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This week Topher and Jeff talk with Mario Lamoureux, former captain for the University of North Dakota men’s ice hockey team and professional player for close to 10 years. He currently runs Lamoureux Hockey, which helps develop players of all age and skill levels.
In this episode we talk about:
— How Lamoureux got into hockey and developed his love for the game
— Letting kids develop a passion for hockey through less structure
— How taking a break doesn’t mean stopping
— Not stripping your kid’s adversity and that tough love is a gift
— How most parents are great, but the few bad ones sometimes chase good coaches away
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar!
And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites!
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PARENTS & RECRUITING 101 COURSES
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On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Vechs wants to talk about everyone’s favorite person to blame: the referees. Let’s discuss how we should talk to them.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk tips on how to shut down the opposing team’s top player.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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This week Topher and Jeff talk with Jon Francisco, CEO and Founder of 4Check Hockey. His company focuses on injury and concussion prevention through its comprehensive training program.
In this episode we talk about:
— Teaching the foundation for checking from a younger age, for both boys and girls
— How your helmet isn’t enough to protect you from concussions
— Being a good teammate by using communication
— How even the best players need to earn their ice time
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar!
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BLUEPRINT ORGANIZATION REFERRAL
4CHECK HOCKEY WEBSITE
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On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph asks the controversial question: Is there a place for fighting in hockey? We want to hear from you, so let us know your thoughts on our socials!
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about what to say and include during your pregame speeches at every age level.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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This week Topher and Jeff talk with Rob Dombrowski, the Director of Hockey Performance for Sacred Heart University. We discuss hockey performance with a focus on strength and conditioning.
In this episode we talk about:
— The benefit and importance of your on-ice and off-ice coaches being on the same page
— How being coachable is a superpower and how it can set you apart
— Using strength training not to score more goals, but to prolong your career
— Educating kids to think about their performance and what young players can do at home
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar!
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JUST LAUNCHED - HOCKEY THINK TANK COURSES!
RECRUITING 101 (MALE)
RECRUITING 101 (FEMALE)
PARENT SURVIVE & THRIVE GUIDE
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On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to discuss the controversial topic of moving your kid at a young age in hopes to find “better hockey.” We use Team USA from the Four Nations Faceoff to talk about this topic.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about breakaways and how to score more goals on them.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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This week Topher and Jeff talk with Craig Ballantyne, author of the upcoming book The Dark Side of Discipline. Ballantyne turned from coach to entrepreneur and has helped thousands of people find the best version of themselves.
In this episode we talk about:
— Ballantyne’s new book The Dark Side of Discipline
— Trying to avoid chasing things that are good for others, but may not be good for you
— Creating a specific definition for your success and what you want to achieve
— Reframing the way you think and talk about yourself
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar!
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On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to know if USA Hockey should be allocating the resources they currently are to the National Team Development Program. Listen as we discuss both sides of the argument.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about how to defend against teams that move the puck fast and really well in their offensive zone.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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This week Topher and Jeff talk with Mike Mottau and Brian Yandle from The Rink Shrinks podcast. We are very excited to announce that they have joined our community to help bring positive change to the hockey world, so be sure to join us at Community.TheHockeyThinkTank.com to not miss a moment of our collaboration!
In this episode we talk about:
— What the HTT community is and how to join
— Jeff and Topher’s hockey career and their path to starting the HTT
— How the best players are the best athletes
— How our goal is to make the game fun and make sure players want to come back
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar!
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On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about the recent hit on Tage Thompson from the Buffalo Sabres. After a brutal hit to the head, there was no response from his teammates. Let’s talk about the importance of sticking up for your teammates.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about what to do as a coach during the dog days of the hockey season to keep spirits high and break up the monotony of the season.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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This week Topher and Jeff talk with David Franco, Mental Performance Coach for the Texas Rangers, where he was part of their '23 World Series Championship. Franco played baseball at the D1 Level for Miami of Ohio University, and has since worked with baseball and hockey players on the mental skills side.
In this episode we talk about:
— How coaches can't help with the mental aspect during the game, so they need to prepare their players for when it matters most
— Encouraging players to make mistakes and try new things
— The importance of establishing your individual goals as a coach, sticking to them, and not letting outside pressure influence you
— “Being a palm tree” and making your routines work for you
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar!
And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites!
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On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about upholding team standards and rules for every player, no matter their skill. We use a recent event involving Brayden Point from the Tampa Bay Lightning as an example.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Vechs wants to talk about how to end practice to get the players fired up and excited for the next one.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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This week Topher and Jeff talk with John O’Sullivan, founder of Changing The Game Project. His company’s mission is to provide those involved in any youth sport with the resources they need to create a healthy and rewarding experience. This is a great episode for coaches and parents looking to foster a positive environment.
In this episode we talk about:
— Recognizing hockey isn’t the easiest sport to get into later in life, but what you can do for success
— That you’re not a bad parent when you say no
— Competing on the ice and collaborating off the ice
— How kids are learning to play a “slow game” and that it’s increasing the risk of injury
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar!
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On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to debate utilizing the community model vs the professional model for youth hockey by comparing Minnesota and Massachusetts stats. We’ve got STRONG feelings about this one so let’s go…
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about the habits and concepts that can help defense break the puck out.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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This week Topher and Jeff talk with PJ Atherton, former college and professional hockey player. Atherton grew up playing Minnesota hockey and joins us this episode to talk about how the community-based model shaped his career and how he views the game.
In this episode we talk about:
— Community-based hockey and always playing for the logo on the front of your jersey
— Learning to dominate multiple levels and how being “too ready” for the next level can be a good thing
— How to put players in the driver’s seat of their own game
— Living with intention and how it carries you further
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar!
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On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to discuss how to handle cutting players: should it be posted online or done in person? Let’s dive into the emotions and best practices of player selection.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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Here is the last of our top three favorite Short Shifts episodes to get your 2025 going!
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Topher wants to talk about the transition game: what is winning in transition and how important is being good in transition both offensively and defensively?
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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This week Topher and Jeff talk with Jakub Dobeš, current Montreal Canadiens goaltender. Listen as we dive into the mind of an elite athlete to understand what it takes to make it to the highest stage in our sport.
In this episode we talk about:
— Dobeš’ “late bloomer” path to the NHL
— An inside look into life as an NHL player
— How the most valuable thing you can bring to a team is consistency
— Advice for goalies aspiring to continue playing in the net
AND SO MUCH MORE!
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On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to discuss a question he received: “What does the youth hockey world need more of, better, or something different than it already has right now?”
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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Here is another one of our favorite past Short Shifts as we get back into the swing of the new year!
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph’s topic is - NUTRITION. It’s such an important component for any athlete to reach their potential and Vechs HAS THOUGHTS that you’re not going to want to miss!
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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This week Topher and Jeff talk with Derek Stephens, former college and professional hockey player. Stephens is currently involved at the youth level with his own kids playing and joins us this episode to discuss the taboo topics of youth hockey.
In this episode we talk about:
— How you never know when someone is watching, so strive to be your best self every day
— The internalized pressure of feeling left behind when you don’t participate in every camp, season, opportunity, etc.
— People being hesitant to do the right thing even though they know better
— Ways to help your kids or yourself develop for free
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar!
And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!
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In place of today’s Friday Faceoff episode, Toph reads a letter his dad sent to Jess, Toph’s little sister. Grab the tissues and send this episode to all of the moms and mom figures in your life 🤧
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Happy New Year fam! The boys are on holiday break, so we have a rerun of one of our most popular Short Shifts for you guys!
On today's SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about consistency. What players, and coaches, can do individually (with preparation, routines, habits) to help with team consistency.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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This week Topher and Jeff are home for the holidays in Chicago with the whole fam to bring you a Christmas special episode. This episode helped us remember our why and we hope you enjoy getting to know us and those closest to us a little better.
Happy holidays from all of us at the Hockey Think Tank!
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar!
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On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph and Vechs discuss the controversial topic: what age should we allow youth players to start checking?
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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Merry Christmas fam!
On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to answer a question from one of our listeners: how do you best coach really young players? What drills can you do to balance making it fun, but also continue to develop their skating and stick abilities?
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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This week Topher and Jeff talk with Drew Shore, former college and NHL player. This is a must listen episode for those aspiring to play high level hockey.
In this episode we talk about:
— How development is a process: find the best fitting program, not the flashiest
— Earning more rope by working hard every day
— The emotions of the game and trying to let things roll off your back
— Shifting your mindset from “I have to do this” to “I get to do this”
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar!
And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!
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On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph and Vechs debate allowing icing on penalty kills at the youth level. Are you pro icing or pro non-icing?
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about teams that have a wide range of skill and how to best coach the skill discrepancy.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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This week Topher and Jeff continue their heated discussion from our latest FRIDAY FACEOFF episode on AAA Mite Hockey. We had so much to say on that episode, that we had to keep it going and transition into the topic of the professionalization of youth hockey.
In this episode we talk about:
— The pressure to perform and how it’s making kids fall out of love with the game
— Encouraging kids to diversify their skills by playing other sports
— Making it despite the system, not because of it
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar!
And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!
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On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph and Vechs discuss the controversial topic of Mite AAA hockey. Pop in your headphones and buckle up as we got FIRED UP this episode.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! (...plus a couple of minutes again, excuse our rant!)
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Vechs wants to talk about playing 4 on 4. We discuss defensive and offensive strategies that we recommend to master 4 on 4 play.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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This week Topher and Jeff talk with guest Nick Robone, current University of Nevada, Las Vegas Men’s Ice Hockey Associate Head Coach. We cover so many different topics in this episode, it’s truly a listen for any player, parent, or coach of the game.
In this episode we talk about:
— Prioritizing relationships over the X’s and O’s in coaching
— American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACHA) hockey as a great option for kids looking to play college, but not at the D1 level
— Robone being a victim of the Las Vegas shooting and how it influenced his outlook on hockey
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar!
And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!
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On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph and Vechs discuss the cost of hockey. We asked on our socials if you can play Tier 1 hockey for less than $20,000 per year, and we received A LOT of responses, so let’s get this 🔥 conversation going.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! (…plus a couple of minutes!)
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about angling. We’ve talked about it a lot on the pod, but since angling is such a huge part of the game, it's time we dedicated a full episode to it.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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This week Topher and Jeff discuss the six C’s of hockey development. There are six traits players should have to succeed. We covered the first three C’s in our Part 1 episode, so go check that out first if you haven't already!
In this episode we talk about:
— Community
— Charisma
— Confidence
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar!
And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!
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On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph and Vechs discuss the hot button topic that major junior players are now eligible to play college hockey. The hockey community had lots of thoughts about the ruling, and so do we, so let’s talk about it!
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about the PWHL’s new rule for the upcoming season. It’s the No Escape Rule and we talk all about how it’ll change the game.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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This week Topher and Jeff talk with Byron Bitz, former NHL player with the Boston Bruins, Florida Panthers, and the Vancouver Canucks and former teammate of both Toph and Jeff. As a current hockey parent and coach, Bitz reflects on his professional hockey career and what younger players can do to achieve their goals in the sport.
In this episode we talk about:
— The players that “peak too early” vs the “late bloomers”
— Finding motivation anywhere you can
— Strengthening your team through adversity & picking up teammates when they need it
— Advice for players battling through injuries
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar!
And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!
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On today’s episode… it’s a FRIDAY FACEOFF! We’re bringing you a new segment where we pick a controversial topic in the hockey world and debate both sides. Today's hot topic: Hit by Toronto Maple Leafs’ Ryan Reaves on Edmonton Oilers’ Darnell Nurse. Was it dirty or clean? Was it suspension worthy or not?
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about faceoffs in the defensive zone. We cover what to do before the puck even drops, so you know what to do for a win, loss, or 50/50 battle.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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To celebrate the podcast's big SIX year anniversary, Topher and Jeff talk with Brianne Jenner, current captain of the PWHL’s Ottawa Charge and Canadian national team member. Jenner is a 2-time CWHL Champion, 2-time Olympic gold medalist with Team Canada, and 4-time World Champion.
In this episode we talk about:
— Jenner’s path to the PWHL and how the new league will be her greatest legacy
— The importance of the car ride home from the rink
— Advice for young kids aiming to make their national team, the NHL, or the PWHL
— Winning a championship the right way: when your team feels like home
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar!
And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!
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On today’s episode… we have week three of our new segment where we pick a controversial topic in the hockey world and let the conversation fly. Today's hot topic: parent behavior in the stands and how the way you act as a parent does not only represent you, but also your organization and your kids.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about winger wall play on the breakout. As a former recruiter, Topher can tell you that scouts look for players that are good along the wall. Listen for tips on how to elevate this key portion of your game.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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This week Topher and Jeff talk with Jason Podollan, former NHL Player and current mindset and performance coach. Utilizing the adversity he faced during his career, Podollan created Up My Hockey, a resource for players to help them navigate their hockey journey.
In this episode we talk about:
— Advice for parents of kids who are struggling and how to create an ideal environment for them
— Reflecting on what Podollan wishes he knew as a younger player
— Being your authentic self and knowing everyone has a different role
— That it is cool to be the hardest working player in the room
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Jason Podollan’s Mindset Quiz: upmyhockey.com/quiz/
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar!
And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!
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On today’s episode… we have week two of our new segment where we pick a controversial topic in the hockey world and debate both sides. Today's hot topic: parent coaches vs paid coaches at the youth level and which is better.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about winning the third period when you’re already winning the game. Do you change your strategy? Or keep playing the same way? Let’s talk about it.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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This week Topher and Jeff talk with Jason Guerriero, one of the Directors of Player Development at USA Hockey. We discuss Guerriero’s long history with the game as a player, coach, and now as a leader with USA Hockey.
In this episode we talk about:
— The importance of scanning: some of the best players in the world are scanners
— Being a smaller player and how to succeed
— Our common mission to make the hockey world a better place
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar!
And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!
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On today’s episode… we have a new segment for you guys! Every Friday we’ll be picking a controversial topic in the hockey world and letting the fiery conversation fly. Your mission: help us name this segment. Message us with your ideas on whatever platform you follow us on and we’ll be picking our favorite 🔥
Today we discuss why the heck we’ve got 8U mites playing on full ice.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about… short shifts! Time your line changes to win periods and set yourself up for success.
Make sure to tune back in this Friday for something new and fiery hitting the pod 🔥
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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This week Topher and Jeff talk with Craig Custance, Head of Creative Development for The Athletic and author of The Franchise: The Business of Building Winning Teams. We discuss some of the top general managers of the NHL and their processes to create winning teams and cultures.
In this episode we talk about:
— Craig’s new book about the top NHL general managers
— The difference between keeping your job and doing your job
— That sometimes doing nothing is a bigger move
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Check out Craig Custance’s book: The Franchise: The Business of Building Winning Teams
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar!
And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about advice for backup goalies who are not happy in their role and want to increase their playing time.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Vechs wants to talk about how to benefit your game by watching your favorite player play. Model your game based on their habits, puck touches, and choices and watch your development skyrocket.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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This week Topher and Jeff talk with Christian Hanson - that’s right HTT fam, you know the name. His dad is one of THE Hanson brothers from the movie Slap Shot. We talk about taking ownership in your hockey career and figuring out how to change your role to earn more ice time.
In this episode we talk about:
— Life with the Hanson name
— “Being a tuba player” - earning more playing time as the unconventional player
— How adversity can benefit your game
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Check out Christian Hanson’s epic hockey camp: O-Town Hockey Camp
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar!
And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about getting to the middle of the ice offensively in order to create more options of play.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Vechs wants to talk about warmies and how to get the most out of your on-ice pregame routine.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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The grind never stops here as Topher calls in from Calgary and joins Jeff to discuss the six C’s of hockey development. There are six traits players should have to succeed. Listen as we dive into the first three of six. Don't miss part two coming soon!
In this episode we talk about:
— Creativity
— Competitiveness
— Coachability
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Please consider donating to support Kelly Deschamps in her battle against Stage III breast cancer: Kelly's Cross Donation
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar!
And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about challenging your players and pushing them outside of their comfort zone.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Vechs is up first again this week, and he wants to talk about some FREE ways that parents can help their players get better. Think outside the box and use what you already have at home!
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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This week Toph and Jeff welcome the co-founder of TOP Sports, Kevin Shier, to the podcast. After seeing early specialization, hyper-competitiveness, and toxic sports environments become the norm in Toronto, TOP Sports was founded to create a more balanced youth sports model by focusing on player experience, long-term development, and a seasonal, set schedule that encourages multi-sport play.
In this episode we talk about:
— Importance of playing multiple sports
— Importance of falling in love with the game
— Thriving through adversity
— Character building
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar!
And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!
If you’d like to join our Hockey Think Tank Community, head over to Community.TheHockeyThinkTank.com and check it out!
This podcast is sponsored by BetterHelp.
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about killing plays fast, from both a player and a team perspective.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Vechs is taking over the Wednesday edition this week and wants to talk about postgame routines - what are the non-negotiables, and what are some hacks to maximize recovery?
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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This week Jeff is back from paternity leave and joins Toph for a full-throttled conversation on some of the biggest issues in youth hockey. We have mentioned some of them before, but today we hit them head-on and offer some insight on how the experience can be better.
In this episode we talk about:
— Recruiting vs. Development
— Disconnect with clubs and parents
— Lack of cohesion within clubs
— Cost
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and, our newest sponsor, Crossbar!
And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Vechs is happy to be back in the podcast saddle as a NEW DAD, and he’s building on Wednesday’s Short Shifts episode (about tipping pucks) by talking about deception when shooting.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, VECHS IS BACK and Toph wants to talk about something Jeff did a lot throughout his career - tipping pucks!
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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This week Topher is flying solo again as Jeff is on paternity leave this week (WELCOME TO THE WORLD SOPHIE TAYLOR LOVECCHIO), so Toph decided to follow up last week’s episode on individual habits for success and focus this week on what it takes for a team to be great.
In order for a team to win championships, they need to be able to answer “yes” to the following questions:
— Are you the closest team?
— Are you the hardest working team?
— Are you the most resilient team?
Toph dives in to each of these, plus, so much more!
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and, our newest sponsor, Crossbar!
And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!
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This podcast is sponsored by BetterHelp.
On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, with Vechs out on paternity leave, Toph is joined once again by his good buddy Nick Petraglia! They coached at Miami together and Trags is now with the AAA Blue Jackets in Columbus. Trags’ brings the topic - and the expertise - and wants to talk about how to help coaches who didn’t play the position themselves, be their best for their goaltender’s development.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, with Vechs out on paternity leave, Toph is joined by his good buddy Nick Petraglia! They coached at Miami together and Trags is now the Executive VP with the AAA Blue Jackets. As a goalie himself, Toph wants to tap into Trags’ expertise and talk about how coaches can help develop goalie hockey sense.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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This week Topher is flying solo as Jeff is on babywatch (and doing all the nesting things getting ready for her eventual arrival), so Toph decided to share some insight on a topic we get asked about A LOT: What does it take to be great?
Whether it’s on the ice, or in life away from the rink, here are some non-negotiables to be your best:
— Grit and resilience
— The importance of surrounding yourself with the right people
— Learning how to be present and understanding your why
— Responsibility and accountability
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and, our newest sponsor, Crossbar!
And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!
If you’d like to join our Hockey Think Tank Community, head over to Community.TheHockeyThinkTank.com and check it out!
This week Topher and Jeff pay tribute to Grandpa Scott, Bob Sr. who was the energy of the family. He lived life to the fullest, he worked hard, loved hard, and was the guy we wanted to be like.
In this episode we share some of our favorite Grandpa stories and we talk about:
— The life lessons he taught us about hard work, sacrifice, and the importance of family
— The impact his energy had on the legacy he leaves behind
— The love he showed our Grandma, always
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and, our newest sponsor, Crossbar!
And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!
If you’d like to join our Hockey Think Tank Community, head over to Community.TheHockeyThinkTank.com and check it out!
This podcast is sponsored by BetterHelp.
On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Vechs wants to talk about team rules for cell phone use. We have talked about this topic before, but Vechs has changed his stance from when he coached, and wants to talk about some strategies coaches can employ to tackle team rules and expectations for cellphone use!
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about drill progressions and how important they are in the transfer of what you’re doing in practice translating to your team’s games.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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This week Topher and Jeff welcome one of Toph’s favorite former teammates to the podcast - Matt Moulson! Not only was he an incredible leader, he is proof that everyone has their own path.
In this episode we talk about:
— Getting cut from midget AAA only to play 650 NHL games
— The art of goal scoring
— Earning confidence through hard work
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and, our newest sponsor, Crossbar!
And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!
If you’d like to join our Hockey Think Tank Community, head over to Community.TheHockeyThinkTank.com and check it out!
This podcast is sponsored by BetterHelp.
On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Vechs wants to talk all things blocking shots. Ways to do it, ways to practice it, and what that kind of sacrifice says about team culture.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to know some of Vechs’ battle drills. We always talk about how important it is to compete hard in practice, and battle drills are a great way to work on that skill!
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!
This week Topher and Jeff welcome Neil Lodin - the founder (and creator) of MyHockeyRankings.com - to the podcast to talk about why he REALLY started the site! We asked a lot of questions and Neil shed some incredible light on so much for us.
In this episode we talk about:
— How the algorithm works
— How teams/coaches/parents are misusing the site
— How the site can (and should) be used for development and retention
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and, our newest sponsor, Crossbar!
And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!
If you’d like to join our Hockey Think Tank Community, head over to Community.TheHockeyThinkTank.com and check it out!
This podcast is sponsored by BetterHelp.
On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Vechs wants to talk about how coaches can help their goalies with hockey sense. DISCLAIMER: this episode brought to you by two dudes who are neither goalies, nor goalie coaches, but have some pretty solid insight!
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!
On this SHORT SHIFTS episode, Topher wants to talk about BREAKAWAYS and Vechs is here for it! Successful breakaways and shootout moves, including tips to increase your chances of scoring. TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
WE HAVE A NAME FOR THE NEW SEGMENTS! (And THANK YOU to everyone who submitted suggestions. You guys are awesome!) Welcome to “SHORT SHIFTS” with the Hockey Think Tank Podcast! Each week, we will put out two of these (Wednesdays & Fridays); Toph & Jeff take turns bringing a topic that the other one doesn’t know ahead of time - and the boys get it done in ten minutes! In this episode, Toph wants to talk about the importance of a preseason parent meeting to set the tone and set the standard to start the season! TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher talk to Juliano Pagliero (Pags”), the Associate Head Coach at Penn State. A former goalie who played at Niagara and has been able to work with some terrific college head coaches, shares some terrific insight on things he has learned along his journey. In this episode we discuss: — Pags’ experience in juniors playing for 5 different teams and how he used that to learn, grow, and improve. — How shooters and goalies can help each other in practices, to use to their advantage. — Learning to believe in your preparation. — The unreal competition and leader boards for just about ANYTHING outside of hockey among the Penn State team! (It’s seriously epic.) AND SO MUCH MORE! Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Welcome to our second 10-minute, quick hit, (as yet) unnamed version of the Hockey Think Tank Podcast! Each week, we will put out two of these, in one Toph brings a topic that Jeff doesn’t know ahead of time, and in the other, Jeff brings the topic! Up today: Vechs wants to talk about the half wall guy on the power play, and the boys get it done in ten minutes! WE NEED YOUR HELP! We are still looking for a name for these new segments - DM us @HockeyThinkTankPodcast with your suggestions. We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Welcome to our very first 10-minute, quick hit, (as yet) unnamed version of the Hockey Think Tank Podcast! Each week, we will put out two of these, in one Toph brings a topic that Jeff doesn’t know ahead of time, and in the other, Jeff brings the topic! Up first: Toph wants to talk about 2 on 1s from both the offensive side and the defensive side of the puck, and the boys get it done in ten minutes! WE NEED YOUR HELP! We are still looking for a name for these new segments - DM us @HockeyThinkTankPodcast with your suggestions. We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher talk to Nick Bootland, Assistant Coach for the Calder Cup winning Hershey Bears (AHL)! Nick grew up in Shelburne, ONT, played in the OHL and professionally before spending 13 years as Head Coach of the Kalamazoo Wings (ECHL) before joining the staff in Hershey. In this episode we discuss: — The opportunity to play for the Memorial Cup (OHL) — Going from player to coach (from one season to the next), for the same team! — What it means to be back in Hershey as a coach and winning the Calder Cup — The importance of gratitude and perspective in the game and in life AND SO MUCH MORE! (HINT: want more Hockey Think Tank podcast? How about a couple of ten-minute quick hits each week to bang out on your way to or from the rink! YOU can help us name the new segment!) Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher talk about ways to get a great start to the season! Whether you’ve worked hard all summer or had some bumps along the way (or both), it’s not too late to dial it in and get a great start TODAY! Coaches, setting the tone early with culture and expectations will help your team throughout the season. In this episode we discuss: — Strategies to earn your confidence — Setting a team identity early — Focusing on small details, consistently — The importance of goal-setting AND SO MUCH MORE! Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher welcome Amanda Mazzotta Alessi, former Cornell goaltender and current Assistant Coach for Quinnipiac Women’s Hockey. Terrific discussion about Quinnipiac’s reputation of being consistently hard to play against and how they maintain that year-to-year. In this episode we discuss: — Player accountability, goal setting and developing culture — An unreal point system that they use to motivate players — The most epic player success plans that create ownership and tangible metrics from each player’s own goal-setting AND SO MUCH MORE! In this episode, Vechs mentions a fundraising event near to him. The link to donate to Kate is here: https://venmo.com/u/katejohnson10
Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher welcome the captain of the Quinnipiac Bobcats, Zach Metsa. An unreal story of his start in youth hockey, to the culture at Quinnipiac that helped them earn a National Championship this season - it was a terrific conversation with so much for coaches, players and parents alike. In this episode we discuss: — Playing Squirt House B and jumping to AAA hockey in Milwaukee —The difference coaches can make in the lives of their players —Relationships, resiliency, culture — Winning a NATTY CHAMPIONSHIP AND SO MUCH MORE! Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher turn to the D side of the puck and talk about Defensive Habits that teams and players must develop for success! In this episode we discuss: — COMMUNICATION — Gaps, Stick pressure, Tracking, and Transition — D Zone — Neutral Zone — Forecheck AND SO MUCH MORE! Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this week’s episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast we talk to one of Jeff’s longtime clients, Jake Dobeš who just signed with the Montreal Canadiens after two seasons between the pipes for The Ohio State University. In this episode we discuss: — His journey that included leaving his home in the Czech Republic for the U.S. — His work ethic and outlook through adversity, and the support system he found here in the states As well as a couple of announcements: — A cause near and dear to Toph’s heart - his fundraising event at Cornell for Racker, a school for individuals with special needs. Link to donate is here (https://www.givegab.com/p2p/racker-rivals-big-red-2023/topher-scott) —A HUGE life-changing decision for Top and his family. Bittersweet but exciting too! AND SO MUCH MORE! Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher continue the talk about offensive habits and the attributes that will lead to success in today’s game. PLAYERS: Learning to do the simple things well, over time, make the biggest difference! In this episode we discuss: — Ozone habits — Neutral zone and entries — Breakouts — Puck protection, separation, shoulder checks and scans, and activating your D AND SO MUCH MORE! Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this week’s episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast we talk to two of the leaders from the University of Michigan hockey team - this past season’s captain, Nolan Moyle and the upcoming 23-24 season captain, Jacob Truscott. Their paths to play for the Wolverines were so different - and the conversation is incredible. Their stories are part of what have made them such unbelievable leaders. In this episode we discuss: — Learning to overcome adversity —Creating habits to be successful —Versatility & knowing your role on a team — Michigan’s run for the national championship this season AND SO MUCH MORE! Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher talk about offensive habits and the attributes needed to have success in today’s game. In this episode we discuss: — Communication — Puck support — Having a finishing mentality — Positionless hockey AND SO MUCH MORE! Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher welcome Jack Smiley! You may have heard some of Jack’s story when he suffered a stroke on the ice in 2022 while playing at Endicott College - but its the story of his journey back to hockey that is unbelievably inspiring. In this episode we discuss: — Resiliency and motivation — The impact of your own words, to yourself — Realizing that someone out there is doing better, with worse AND SO MUCH MORE! Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this week’s episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher are talking about all things player leadership and its importance to any team. What does it look like? What do great player leaders do? What characteristics do great leaders they’ve played with (or coached) over the years possess? As Vechs says in this episode, “better leadership equals better everything!” ALL OF THIS AND SO MUCH MORE! Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher do another MAILBAG from your questions on social media. They cover: — The balance between emotion and discipline — Ways to conquer point slumps — Training through breaks/weeks off for higher level players AND SO MUCH MORE! Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS! We love doing these episodes - so DM or email us your questions any time and we will get to them on the next MAILBAG!
Check out our link nordvpn.com/thinktank to protect your online activity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher do another MAILBAG from your questions on social media. They cover: — The balance between emotion and discipline — Ways to conquer point slumps — Training through breaks/weeks off for higher level players AND SO MUCH MORE! Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS! We love doing these episodes - so DM or email us your questions any time and we will get to them on the next MAILBAG!
Check out our link nordvpn.com/thinktank to protect your online activity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we talked with former BC star and current Bishop Kearney Hockey Director, Chris Collins! He has some terrific stories from his playing days as well as his personal journey to giving back to our great game! In this conversation we talk about: — Doing what it takes to get better and create success — Evolve Hockey and the “Just Get Good” motto — How a kid from Rochester ends up running an elite hockey academy in his hometown AND SO MUCH MORE! Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS! This episode was a long time coming with our good friend Chris and his insight was worth the wait! Check out our link nordvpn.com/thinktank to protect your online activity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff & Toph talk all things DISCIPLINE! In this conversation we talk about: — Flipping the script on the negative connotation of the word discipline and instead, using it as your superpower — Strategies to be disciplined in pursuit of your goals — a CRAZY parent email that you will not want to miss AND SO MUCH MORE! Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS! This episode is quite the ride - Jeff is HIGH ENERGY and it leads to instant hilarity right from the jump! Check out our link nordvpn.com/thinktank to protect your online activity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we talk to former pro hockey player turned futures trader, James Sixsmith who started a company while still playing to set himself up financially for life after the game. In this conversation we talk: — Sixer and Vecchs playing against each other overseas — What smaller players need to be successful at the highest levels — The work ethic that high level players have translating to success off the ice AND SO MUCH MORE Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS! This episode is a great reminder that hockey teaches valuable life skills like humility and unmatched work ethic. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, it’s all about HOCKEY PARENTS! Jeff & Topher talk about what some of the best hockey parents do right and answer questions they’ve received from parents over the years. In this conversation we talk: — The car ride home — Burnout & injury prevention — Life lessons that the hockey experience teaches AND SO MUCH MORE Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. Thank you to new sponsor NordVPN - an internet streaming and security company where you can get a great discount by going to nordvpn.com/thinktank. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS! This episode is a great reminder that hockey is a journey for the whole family that starts and ends with a love of the game! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we talk to the founder of State and Liberty Clothing Company and former University of Michigan Hockey captain, Lee Moffie. In this conversation we talk: — Resiliency — Leadership & Transparency — Entrepreneurship — Culture and communication AND SO MUCH MORE Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. Check out our friends at Nord VPN: nordvpn.com/thinktank And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS! This episode is another great reminder about the skills and lessons that can be learned through hockey and applied throughout the rest of your life.
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher talk about confidence: why it’s important, how to achieve it, how to regain it, and why it’s not an easy process. In this conversation we talk: —Why confidence is such a huge part of development and success — Strategies to regain confidence — Learning to be comfortable in uncomfortable situations AND SO MUCH MORE (like the boys being confident enough to sing Kelly Clarkson’s “Stronger”) THAT YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS! Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS! This episode is a great reminder that having confidence is a skill that must be honed consistently on and off the ice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on former NHLer, Zac Rinaldo. Known for his gritty and physical style of play, this was a very raw, very honest, very intense conversation about living life and doing things with no regrets. In this conversation we talk: — The people who most influenced Zac growing up around the game — A competitive mindset and earning every day — Giving back to the game AND SO MUCH MORE! Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, NordVPN and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS! This episode is a great reminder to work every day to be true to YOU and be your best self.
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on sports psychologist, Michael McElhenie, PhD. With years of experience helping bring successful leadership strategies and organizational culture in the corporate world, Michael now works to change the social and emotional intelligence landscape of sports one athlete, team, coach, and parent at a time with his company, Exult Athletics. In this conversation we talk: — What’s RIGHT with the youth hockey landscape, and where improvement can happen — Redefining masculinity (high performance and high compassion can, and should, coexist) — How visualization and other techniques can be incorporated in the development path both as a player and person AND SO MUCH MORE! Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS! There is something for everyone who wants to be better in this episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on former pro player and current NYPD Officer, Dan O’Donoghue. Growing up on Long Island, Dan’s road from youth hockey to DI - and eventually pro - was not a “traditional” path, and we talk about the life lessons learned through hockey that contributed to his success on and off the ice. In this conversation we talk: — Community, teamwork, and camaraderie — Toph and Dan’s coaching days together in Syracuse (and a little about how youth hockey can be better for the kids) — How playing high level hockey prepared Dan for a life of service in the NYPD — The spectacle that is the NYPD vs NYFD annual hockey game AND MUCH MORE! Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, TrainHeroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS! We know you are going to love this one.
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On this LOST episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we re-release our conversation with one of the top hockey strength and conditioning coaches in the world, Mike Boyle! Mike is the legendary strength coach of many of the top Boston University programs and he works with a ton of top level NHL talent as well. In this episode, we talk: -Coaching with Jack Parker at BU -Filling up the buckets in development -Working with top NHL talent -MUCH MORE Thank you so much to our sponsors GELSTX, TrainHeroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you most of all to all of our amazing listeners!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher do another MAILBAG from your questions on social media. They cover: -Earning confidence -How to make a positive impression at the start of camp -Building connection -Jeff eats cookies!! -SO.MUCH.MORE!!! Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, TrainHeroic, CuredNutririon, and IceHockeySystems.com! And thank you most of all to our amazing listeners!!!!!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this LOST EPISODE of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on ADM Manager for USA Hockey, one of the top minds in charge of the hockey development for USA Hockey, Bob Mancini! This was such a phenomenal conversation on youth hockey development and the in's and out's of USA Hockey's methods. We put the heat on Bob and asked a lot of tough questions and he was very open and honest about the positives and negatives of youth hockey culture today! We also talked about changes in the podcast! We are looking to hire a producer to help us take this podcast to the next level - so if you want to be a teammate of Topher and Jeff's reach out to Topher at topher@thehockeythinktank.com. We also talk about the significance of the "Lost Episodes..." Thank you to GELSTX, TrainHeroic, and IceHockeySystems.com!!! Thank. you to all of our AMAZING listeners. We hope you love this episode with Bob! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring back one of our most downloaded lost episodes and chat with IMPLEMENTATIONAL speaker, Ricky Mendez! Ricky has worked with people and companies around the world and his wisdom and knowledge were AMAZING. We talked: -Turning negative energy into positive energy -The power of gratitude -How to change your mindset and treat yourself better -MUCH MORE! This was as motivational and inspirational of a conversations as we've had and we're grateful to be able to share Ricky's perspective with you! Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, TrainHeroic, and IceHockeySystems.com. Thank you to BlueWire Pods. And thank you SO MUCH to our amazing listeners!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on a culture and team building expert in Lee Elias!! This was such an amazing conversation on team culture - and we encourage you to get your pens and notebooks ready. On this episode, we talk: -Topher is going to Michigan! -Empowering and developing leaders -The power of accountability and standards -Defining team identity -MUCH, MUCH MORE!! What a conversation this was...we can't wait to bring it to you! We want to thank our sponsors GELSTX, TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com, and CuredNutrition. We want to thank our podcast parent company BlueWire Pods. And we want to thank all of our amazing listeners who support our podcast!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we release a LOST EPISODE and talk with Chicago Blackhawks development coach Brian Keane of Prodigy Hockey. We get REAL in depth on youth development and youth hockey on this episode - it is one of the most downloaded we have ever done. It's a different type of episode as we use clips from one of the best youth development debates between experts Malcolm Gladwell and David Epstein to talk about what we see in the youth hockey world today. We talk: -Early sport specialization -Unstructured vs. structured play -How to teach anticipatory skills -The 10,000 hour rule -Deliberate practices, and so much more! This was the episode we dive the deepest into the research and we're excited to bring it to you! Thank you for tuning in to our podcasts!! Thank you to our sponsors, GelStx, TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com, and CuredNutrition. And a special thank you to all of our amazing podcast listeners!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher take on your listener questions!! We love all of you who support our podcast and we want to make sure we're hearing from you and helping you on your hockey journeys whether you are a player, parent, or coach. We tackled SO MANY QUESTIONS serious and funny on this one...here they are:
-What is advice for a first year coach coming into a college locker room, who hasn't recruited the players, and create buy in? -What are the best things to do in a tryout to get noticed? -Is Nickelback good music for training? -What is advice for a head coach moving up to be an assistant coach at a higher level of hockey? -What are strategies for a player to earn more trust and ice time opportunities on the ice for a junior player? -What do I do as a parent when I see my kid liking the game but they don't compete hard? -What is advice for a parent that wants to cultivate a love and passion for the game in their kid? -What are your thoughts on plus/minus in assessing a player? -What is your most impactful lesson learned in hockey that you use today in life? -What are your thoughts on full ice practices for 12u teams? -Who should play goalie at the youngest ages of hockey? -How does a player get through the let down of making a team to be an impact player on the team when the season starts? -What is the number one "trick" for getting through a rut? -What are your thoughts on staying with one coach for five seasons in youth hockey? -Why are agents reaching out to kids so young when in Sweden there is a rule that you can't do that until the kids are 16 years old? -Is the defensive defenseman a thing of the past? Do NHL teams want/need this role anymore? -What are some tips for in season training? -What are important traits of a captain and what age should they be named? -What is more important to gain in transitioning to college hockey - strength or quickness? -What is the best way to establish my philosophy quickly as a coach of a new program? WOW we got through all of these!!!!!!!! Thank you to everyone that submitted questions - we really appreciate it! Thank you to our sponsor GELSTX, TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com, and CuredNutrition. Thank you to Bluewire Pods, our podcast parent company. And thank you so much to all of our amazing listeners!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on the Academy Director of DC United Soccer Club, Pat Ouckama! We are huge proponents of playing multiple sports, and it was awesome to bring on someone with both a soccer and hockey background to speak about development. Pat runs one of the top soccer academies in the US, with his 16u team winning the National Championship this year. In this conversations, we talk: -The similarities of each sports game tactics -What he sees in players that succeed at the next levels -The value of studying other sports as a coach -MUCH MORE! Thank you to Coach Ouckama for taking time to come on our podcast! Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com, and our podcast company BlueWire Pods. And thank you most of all to all of our amazing listeners! We appreciate you so much and you are going to love this conversation. Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on current Montreal Canadiens defenseman Chris Wideman! Chris trains with Jeff in the summers and played for Topher when he was a grad assistant at Miami (Ohio) and this was a really, really fun and insightful conversation. On this episode, they talk: -Playing for Martin St. Louis in Montreal -Being grateful for the good and the tough times -The importance of a support system in reaching your goals -MUCH, MUCH, MORE!! Thank you so much to Wides for hopping on the podcast. Thank you to our sponsors GELSTX, TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com, and our podcast company Blue Wire. And thank you most of all to all of our amazing listeners! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring back one of your favorite episodes...especially for the hockey moms out there...with Topher and Jeff's Moms!! When we brought our podcast over to the BlueWire Network, we lost a few episodes in the transfer that were some of ours, and our listeners, favorites. On this episodes, we speak to Debbie Scott and Colleen LoVecchio and share some really fun stories about our childhoods and our moms talk about the joys of being a hockey mom. We had a ton of fun on this episode, we know you are going to love it!! Thank you so much to our sponsors GELSTX, TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com, and CuredNutrition. Thank you to all of our amazing listeners. And most of all, thank you to all of the amazing hockey moms out there...this one is for you!!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on a veteran of over 1,000 professional hockey games Derek Nesbitt! What a career spanning over 16 seasons. In this conversation, we talk: -The benefits of growing up in small town Canada -Playing for both Jared Bednar and Derek Lalonde -The keys to longevity in the game -Challenges of being a youth hockey director -MUCH MORE! Thank you to all of our sponsors - GELSTX, TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com, and Cured Nutrition. Thank you to our podcast parent company BlueWire Pods. And thank you to all of our amazing listeners for continuing to tune in every week!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on the girl who stole all of our hearts as the St. Louis Blues went on their Stanley Cup run...Laila Anderson. We all remember Laila as the inspiration for the team as she was going through chemotherapy during the teams championship playoff season in 2019. From the viral videos of her mom letting her know she could attend the games in person, to her on ice celebration with the cup, to the entire city of St. Louis chanting her name at the parade...Laila was an inspiration to us all to keep fighting. In this conversation we talk: -Her journey through a potential terminal sickness -Her inspiring relationships with the Blues players, especially Colton Parayko -Getting to Boston for Game 7 of the Cup Finals -Bethematch.org, the organization that saved her life -An UNBELIEVABLE story with Brett Hull and Jon Hamm -MUCH MORE Thank you to Laila (who actually trains with Jeff) for coming on the podcast! Thank you also to our sponsors GelStx, TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com, and our podcast parent company BlueWire Pods. And thank you so much to all of our amazing listeners...you are going to LOVE this episode. It's one of our absolute favorites!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on 14 year professional player now leading a mentorship program for youth hockey players, Ryan Vesce! Ryan hails from Long Island, NY and played his college hockey at Cornell. He then went on to play 14 years pro over 7 different countries, including a stint with the San Jose Sharks where he scored his first professional goal on an assist from Joe Thornton (we talk about it on the pod). We also talk: -Developing a mindset for getting out of a slump -Some incredible prank stories -Scoring his first NHL goal in his hometown -The value of mentorship as you go through your journey -MUCH MORE! Thank you to Ves for this awesome conversation - you'll get a ton of insight into becoming an elite hockey player. Thank you also to our sponsors GelStx, TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com, and our podcast parent company BlueWire Pods. And thank you to our amazing listeners...you're going to love this episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on bestselling author and one of the top motivational speakers and leadership consultants in the world Jon Gordon! Jon has worked with many major companies and professional sports teams on the power of positive leadership. His books have also inspired millions of people and organizations of all sizes all over the world. On this specific podcast, we speak to Jon about his book "The Hard Hat, 21 Ways to be a Great Teammate." This book chronicles the life of George Boiardi, a Cornell Lacrosse player who died tragically on the field as a senior captain after blocking a shot in his chest. This inspiring story of an amazing leader and the aftermath of his passing of a team trying to honor him by their play on the lacrosse field is one that is going to make you feel all the feels. For more on Jon's work, visit https://jongordon.com/. For more on George Boiardi's legacy and his foundation, visit https://www.boiardifoundation.org/ Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, TrainHeroic, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to all of our amazing listeners, get ready to be inspired from this podcast conversation with one of the most positive leaders in our world - on one of the most positive influences and leaders ever to walk the lacrosse field. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher riff on Part 2 of Topher's presentation that he gave at the NCAA College Hockey Coaches Convention on the 5 P's of Leadership. The three P's they talk on are: -Preparation -Perspective -Present We know you're going to take some tidbits out of this episode that you can use in leading your teams! Thank you to GelStx, TrainHeroic, and IceHockeySystems.com for supporting our podcast. And thank you to the thousands of listeners who continue to tune in every week!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on the new Associate Head Coach at Michigan State Jared DeMichiel! What an awesome conversation with one of the rising stars in college coaching coming off of a National Championship and turnaround at UMASS. In this conversation, we tackle: -Turning things around at UMASS leading to a National Championship -College recruiting and the transfer portal -The power of earning opportunities instead of guarantees -MUCH MORE! Thanks to DeMike for hopping on...and we have some other people to thank as well. Thank you to our sponsors GelStx (gelstx.com), TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com, and our podcast parent company Blue Wire Pods. Thank you to all of our amazing listeners - if you leave us a review on Apple Podcasts you'll be registered to win one of Jeff's hip mobility workouts for free! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher talk about Topher's 5 P's of Leadership: -People -Perseverance -Perspective -Preparation -Present Although...the two talked so much about PEOPLE that there is going to be a Part 1/Part 2 on these topics. On this specific episode, Jeff and Topher talk about the importance of investing time and effort into PEOPLE and the importance of PERSEVERING in tough times. Great leaders understand these two ideals and work hard to facilitate environments to bring both to the forefront. We love talking leadership on this podcast, and our goal is to provide you with things you can use in your journey as a leader that can help you be the best you can be! Thank you to our sponsors - GelStx, TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com. Thank you to Blue Wire Pods. And thank you to our amazing following...we know you'll enjoy this one! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on former NHLer for the Vancouver Canucks and Washington Capitals - and now a visualization coach - Aaron Volpatti! Aaron has such a unique hockey journey...and such an inspiring story. We talk: -His near death experience with a fire and how it taught him resliency -How visualization helped him heal and helped him in his career -His journey to the NHL -Much more!! This again was such an inspiring conversation we are so thrilled to bring to you. Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com, and our podcast parent company BlueWire Pods. And thank you to all of our AMAZING listeners! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on NHL Network host and analytics expert Mike Kelly! This was an amazing conversation on the use of analytics to make teams better and for us to better understand the game. We tackle: -The use of analytics to form team identity -The importance of the neutral zone -Peeling back the onion of how goals are scored -Some great stories of how players/coaches are using analytics for development -Much More!! Thank you to Mike for this awesome conversation...it's one you are going to love. Thank you to our title sponsor GELSTX. Thank you to sponsor TrainHeroic and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our amazing listeners!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on NHL Hall of Famer and one of the top development coaches in the world, Adam Oates! Known as one of the best playmakers of all time, it was incredible being able to talk hockey with someone with such an amazing hockey sense as Adam. On the podcast, we talk: -Playing fast vs. Fast hockey IQ -Why players like McDavid, Ovechkin, and Crosby are so good -Building chemistry with teammates -MUCH MORE! What an honor getting Adam on the podcast to share his knowledge. We want to the GELSTX (gelstx.com) our title sponsor. We also want to thank TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com, and BlueWire Pods. Our biggest thank you goes to all of our amazing listeners! Thank you for all of your support for our podcast and we know you are going to get a ton out of this one! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on West Point graduate and United States Army veteran Joe Kramer! Joe played ACHA Club hockey at West Point and came on to share some of his hockey and leadership experiences with the armed forces. On this episode, we talk: -Leadership lessons learned in the military -How to bring a team together and build a bought in unit -How to create a "relationship with failure" -The benefits and experience of playing ACHA Club College Hockey -MUCH.MORE First and foremost, thank you to Joe for his service. Thank you also to our sponsors GelStx, TrainHeroic, and IceHockeySystems.com. This week we have another sponsor in Hello Fresh. Thank you to our podcast parent company, BlueWire Pods. And thank you to all of our amazing supporters and listeners!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on the Co-General Manager of the Youngstown Phantoms of the USHL and Detroit Little Caesars' 15O coach Jason Deskins! This was a great conversation as Jason has so much great perspective with all of the hats he wears in the hockey world. The boys tackle: -Using the downs to motivate you -What he looks for in players as a GM in junior hockey -How to get into the business as a young coach -GOAL SCORING -LEADERSHIP -So Much More Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com...and thank you to all of our AMAZING listeners! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on Mount St. Charles Hockey Academy Director and 18u Head Coach, Matt Plante! Fresh off winning the National Championship, Topher and Jeff sit down with Planter and go through so many different awesome topics including: -Their National Championship Run -Coaching Kids at 18u who have gone on to play in the NHL and what made them special -A day in the life at a hockey prep academy -Why surrounding yourself with good people is important -MUCH MORE!! Thank you to our sponsors GELSTX, TrainHeroic, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to all of our amazing supporters out there...we love you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher come loaded with questions for one another - yet the other person has no idea what the questions are. The non-scripted Q&A between the two guys end up becoming a great resource for all hockey players. Questions include: -How important is developing a routine? -How can you develop a goal scoring mentality? -What is advice for players who are playing a 3rd or 4th line role on a team? -What does being "hard to play against" mean? This was a really fun episode for the guys and we think you are going to really enjoy it too! Thank you to all of our amazing sponsors - GELSTX, TrainHeroic, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to all of our amazing supporters!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on the Head Coach at Dartmouth College Reid Cashman. Cash is a great coach who came to Dartmouth from being an Assistant Coach with the Washington Capitols and this was a fantastic conversation on hockey development and the hockey journey. Cash grew up in MN and played his college hockey at Quinnipiac where he was a two-time All-American. He played a few years professionally before going behind the bench at his alma mater Quinnipiac. From there he went on to coach in Hershey of the AHL, followed by Washington and now Dartmouth. This was an epic conversation where we tackle: -What defense development looks like -The importance of habit building in practice -What it was like coaching the best players in the world in Washington -MUCH MORE! Thank you to our sponsors for this podcast - GelStx, TrainHeroic, and IceHockeySystems.com. Thank you to our Podcast Family BlueWire Pods. And thank you to all of our amazing listeners! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher take YOUR mailbag questions on anything and everything college hockey! With the NCAA Tournament in full swing, they take you behind the scenes of what college hockey is about. Jeff also takes you through his visit with to the USA National Team Development Program at their annual tryout showcase. Some questions the guys tackle on the podcast include: -What is it like to play in the NCAA Tournament? -How does University of Minnesota Duluth coach Scott Sandlin do it? -How do you get recruited and do summer showcases matter? -What are the best college hockey conferences? -What is the toughest college hockey rink to play in? This one was a lot of fun and made the boys really get nostalgic about their time playing college hockey. We want to thank our awesome sponsors GELSTX, TrainHeroic, and IceHockeySystems.com. We also want to thank our amazing listeners and supporters! We appreciate you and know you are going to love this conversation on #cawlidgehawkey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on a teammate of BOTH Jeff and Topher...Brian Bicek. Brian is from Chicago and played his college hockey at Western Michigan - before going onto a seven year pro career. He has been a youth hockey coach in Chicago now for almost a decade and we had an awesome conversation on all of our experiences especially coaching at the youth levels. Some of the topics we dove into include: -How to divvy up ice time and the problems that creates -How parents can best help their kids (and how not to hurt them) -Laying out a foundation as a youth coach or parent for the kids -MUCH MORE!! Thank you to our sponsors GELSTX (gelstx.com), TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com, and a new sponsor through our podcast company BlueWire pods, HelloFresh. Get an awesome deal by going to hellofresh.com/thinktank16 and use the code thinktank16 to get 16 free meals...pretty sweet. And most importantly, thank you to all of our amazing listeners!! We love you and know you'll enjoy this one with Brian Bicek Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on our first ever guest to celebrate our 200th episode...Brandon Naurato!! Brandon is the current Assistant Coach for the University of Michigan and this was a conversation that didn't disappoint. We tackle: -What it's like to coach the best young players in the world. -Coaching the individual with coaching the team. -Teaching how to recognize and understand pressure with making plays on the ice -SO.MUCH.MORE!!! We want to thank EVERY SINGLE ONE of our amazing supporters and listeners. We honestly can't believe we are at 200 episodes of the Hockey Think Tank podcast. It's incredible and it's all because of your love and support for what we are trying to accomplish in adding some positivity to the hockey world. Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, TrainHeroic, and IceHockeySystems.com and thank you to everyone out there that continues to listen from the bottom of our hearts. You are going to love this hockey coaching masterclass with Brandon Naurato! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher discuss how to navigate the end of a long season along with the finding the right avenues for spring and summer hockey. It's questions that they get ALL.THE.TIME from parents and thought it would be really beneficial to have a really open and honest conversation on what is happening in the hockey world during the spring and the summer. Some important topics they tackle include: -Early sport specialization and burnout -Using feedback as a tool for growth -The business of youth hockey in the spring/summer -FOMO -Much more!! Thank you to all of our sponsors including GELSTX, TrainHeroic, and IceHockeySystems.com. And special thank you, thank you, thank you to all of our AMAZING listeners!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on 13 year professional hockey veteran Cody Lampl! Cody is one of Jeff's former teammates that grew up in a non-traditional hockey market (Idaho) yet has had an incredible hockey career! We talk: -Cody starting out in figure skating and how that's helped him as a hockey player -The importance of mobility in your game -PASSING being an essential skill in hockey -His unique hockey journey coming from Idaho Thank you to Cody for a really inspiring episode! Thank you to our sponsors GELSTX, TRAINHEROIC, and ICEHOCKEYSYSTEMS.COM. Thank you to Blue Wire Pods, our podcast parent company. And thank you to all of our amazing listeners!!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we are re-releasing the podcast where you get to know Topher! A few weeks ago, we re-released Episode ONE where Topher interviewed Jeff...and on this one the guys flipped the script and Jeff interviews Topher. Check out his journey through the hockey world...the good, the bad, and the ugly. Thank you to all of our amazing sponsors including GELSTX, TrainHeroic, and IceHockeySystems.com! And thank you to all of our amazing listeners! We wanted to go down memory lane with this episode...hope you enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher dive into MENTAL TOUGHNESS. -What is it? -How do you get it? -Why is it important? They share stories from their own careers (during and post-hockey), those from others they know, and detail strategies they have learned or seen that could lead to being a more mentally tough hockey player and person. Some of the areas they tackle include: -Handling adversity and success -The importance of a routine and preparation -Creating an accountability structure -SO MUCH MORE This conversation had so much for anyone that wants to be more mentally tough!!! Thank you to all of our supporters and sponsors, including GelStx, IceHockeySystems.com, and TrainHeroic. And thank you most of all to all of our amazing listeners who continue to tune in with us every week! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we are getting nostalgic and throwing it back to EPISODE 1 where Topher interviews Jeff that was the start to this podcast journey. We will be hitting 200 episodes in the next few weeks and we wanted to brink it back to where we started to pay homage to the journey. For those that have been with us for a large part of our journey, you'll see how hilarious this first episode was where Jeff and Topher have NO CLUE what they are doing...but they get into some great conversation about Jeff's journey. You can see the seeds being laid for what was eventually to come. We love you guys, hope you enjoy!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher speak directly to all the youth hockey players with a dream of playing hockey at a high level. They go dive into stories of their own careers and those of others they know to give advice to all the players out there on what the journey may throw at them. Through this podcast episode, they answer three fundamental questions:
When was there a time a coach was hard on you and what did you do to handle it?
Who is a player you know that made it and what was it that got them there?
What specific advice would you give to a kid that wanted to play junior, college, or pro hockey?
This episode comes with a ton of insight for not just the players, but the parents and coaches who will guide those players through their journeys. We know it will be an impactful one for everyone that listens!! Thank you to all of our amazing listeners. Thank you to our amazing sponsors GelStx, TrainHeroic, and IceHockeySystems.com. We appreciate all of you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher take on Mailbag questions from YOU! They sent the bat signal out on social media and you guys gave us some great topics to dive into including... -Is burnout real? -Are there benefits to playing the off wing -Thoughts on International Tournaments getting canceled -Position specific skills for D and F -The nastiest goal they've ever scored -What separates good players from the best? -Much More!!! We love hearing from you...and thanks to everyone that submitted questions. We want to also thank our sponsors GelStx, TrainHeroic, and IceHockeySystems.com. We appreciate all the support from all of you and especially all of our amazing listeners!!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we dive deep into OZONE PLAY! We bring on Ryan Ward, Robbie Murden, and our Director of Skills Karl Linden to talk anything and everything on the Ozone, including: -Getting the defense involved -Shot quantity vs quality -The importance offensively and defensively of F3 -Using analytics to drive tactics -Puck Protection -A whole lot more! This was a fun, in depth look on scoring goals and we know you'll enjoy the banter! Thank you to all of you that continue to support our podcast and we hope you'll be able to take something from this one to use with your teams. Thank you to our sponsors as well, GELSTX, TrainHeroic, and IceHockeySystems.com! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on Director of Hockey Operations for the University of Wisconsin and Topher's former junior hockey teammate, Shane Connelly! Shane was a big time goaltender playing in multiple tournaments for Team USA and won a National Championship at the University of Wisconsin. He was a great player and now a great coach, and we dive into some really amazing topics including: -Coaching Cole Caufield at Wisconsin -Scoring goals through a goalie's eyes -The makeup of championship teams and its leadership -Coaching elite talent -MUCH MORE!! Thank you to Shane for coming on and for the awesome conversation! Thank you to our awesome sponsors - GELSTX (gelstx.com), TrainHeroic, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you most of all to our amazing listeners!!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher create a podcast surprise Christmas present for a few certain people that have been some of the best role models in their lives. Tune in to find out who and listen to a podcast full of love, family, and of course...hockey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Topher and Jeff talk about what they can do...and what we all can do...to get the most out of our potential. They use the framework of Topher's "10 Commandments" of things he'd like to incorporate into his life....only later to be named the "Tophmandments" by Jeff. This was a really fun episode that will make you laugh, think, and reflect upon how you are getting the most out of yourself in your own life. Some of the Tophmandments include: -You are defined by your actions, not your experiences -Physical health is mental health and mental health is physical health -Perspective is power -Every day is a series of choices hinging on self-discipline -And More!! Thank you to all of our amazing listeners...we hope you have an amazing holiday! And thank you to our awesome sponsors in GELSTX, TRAINHEROIC, and ICEHOCKEYSYSTEMS.COM! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on former University of Michigan standout and current owner of the hockey development company TopLine Hockey Justin Selman! This was a really insightful and candid conversation about the journey to high level hockey with a lot of really open stories about the ups, downs, and everything that goes into the grind of getting better. We talk: -How being different isn't easy -How rushing the process comes with a major risk -Playing on a line with Dylan Larkin and Zach Hyman at Michigan -How doing the right things all the time can lead to opportunities -MUCH MORE!! This was so much fun, we know you are going to love it and learn something along the way. Thank you to our sponsors GELSTX, TrainHeroic, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you so much to all of our loyal listeners who continue to tune in with us every week! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Rob Rassey and Ryan Ward join Topher on the Windy City Hockey Roundtable to talk POSITIONLESS HOCKEY. We feel like it's a term that is used a lot but under-defined...but can have a positive effect on your team's play and individual player development. Some of the concepts we go over include: -Getting back and sorting out the Dzone -Developing versatile players -Rush and Ozone play -MUCH MORE!! Thank you to everyone that takes the time to listen to this episode, we hope that you'll be able to use this with your teams! Thank you to our sponsors GELSTX, IceHockeySystems.com, and TrainHeroic. And thanks the most to all of our amazing listeners!!!!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on former NHL referee Tim Peel! Tim is a veteran of over 1,300 NHL games, he reffed an All-Star game, and he also reffed at the 2014 Olympics in Sochi. This was an awesome conversation where we talked: -How the game has changed in the decades he's reffed -The difference between reffing players like Gretzky vs. McDavid -The "Hot Mic" incident that cost him his job -Refs in youth hockey today -MUCH MUCH MORE This was a really cool conversation on what it's like to be a ref in the NHL and building relationships with some of the top players in the world. Thank you to all of our amazing listeners, and thank you to our sponsors GELSTX, TrainHeroic, and MyHockeySystems.com. You're going to love this one! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we talk everything TEAM CAPTAINS on the Windy City Storm Hockey Roundtable. We bring on former Asst Coach of Harvard, Detroit Red Wings scout, and current director of TPH Chicago Rob Rassey go detail player leadership and so many ideas and insights relating to team captains. We talk: -What makes a good captain? -How do you choose them? -The importance of secondary leadership -Best player/role player as captain -MUCH MORE! This was a phenomenal conversation we hope can stir up some ideas that you could use with your teams or businesses. Thank you to Rass again for coming on. Thank you to our sponsors GELSTX, TrainHeroic, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you thank you thank you to all of our amazing listeners who continue to ride this podcast train with us!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on the two hosts of "NEXT SHIFT" podcast Sean Coffey and George Hughes. Sean is an NHL agent and George was an All-American defenseman and they teamed up to start a podcast on the stories of great people in the hockey world both during their careers and what they're up to afterwards. With their experiences in the game, we tackle some awesome subjects including: -Playing to play vs. playing for expectations and external rewards -Handling pressure - "Playing the game" vs "Thinking the game" -Lessons for life after hockey -MUCH MUCH MORE We get vulnerable and share a bunch of stories that we think will be able to put things into perspective for a lot of hockey players out there, Sean and George are great hockey guys and we know you'll enjoy a lot of their stories! Thank you to all of our amazing supporters who continue to tune in every week. Thank you to our title sponsor GelStx, TrainHeroic, and IceHockeySystems.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we talk ENTRIES and RUSH!! What a fun episode this was...we bring on our Robbie Murden and Mike Monti to talk anything and everything regarding having successful entries. We go through... -How good defense leads to rush chances -Teaching predictability vs. creativity -The importance of entering through the middle of the ice -The give and take of Blueline turnovers -Net Drive Much More!! We know you'll take a ton out of this episode that you can use with your teams....and hopefully get some more goals! We want to thank the people that support us, including our title sponsor GelStx (gelstx.com), TrainHeroic (app on your phone), and IceHockeySystems.com. And most importantly, thank you to all of our thousands of listeners who tune in with us every week. We so appreciate you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on firefighter, paramedic and aspiring professional hockey player Kevin Porter! What an inspiring episode with someone who is stopping at nothing to achieve his dreams, even in his 40's. So much positivity and so many uplifting stories of battling adversity on this one...we talk: -How to drown out the haters -How a near-death experience sparked his attempt to achieve his dreams -How a firehouse relates to a hockey locker room and culture -So.Much.More!! What a conversation this one was...we know you are going to enjoy the heck out of it. Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, IceHockeySystems.com, and TrainHeroic. Thank you to our podcast platform BlueWire Pods. And thank you to all of our amazing listeners who hang out with us every week! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we have our Windy City Storm roundtable detailing our ORGANIZATIONAL WEEKEND we executed the week prior. This ORGANIZATIONAL WEEKEND was an idea we tried getting all of our youth teams in our rink for a weekend to build our culture and get everyone excited about being part of the Windy City Storm family. Here's what we did: -Split practices and games with an older team and younger team on the ice at the same time. -Info sessions for our players and parents with our hockey directors -Info session with our strength coach on off-ice philosophy -Intrasquad games with older players coaching younger teams and vice versa. IT WAS AWESOME!! Our hope by doing this podcast is that other youth organizations take the idea and run with it. I think over the weekend we were able to build a camaraderie with all of our teams and families and taught the players that what the crest in front of the jersey means more than the names on the back. Check it out!! Thank you to our sponsors GELSTX, TrainHeroic, and IceHockeySystems.com. Thank you to our podcast platform BlueWire. And thank you to our amazing listeners. We know you'll get a ton out of this one!!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on one of Jeff's former teammates who had an unbelievable journey to the NHL...going from an undersized and undrafted player to ultimately reaching his dreams of playing in the show. We talk: -Routine and preparation -Playing the role of an agitator as a smaller player -The grind of making it to the NHL. -MUCH MORE!! This was such an inspiring episode with a lot of nuggets for all kids that have dreams of playing at the highest levels of hockey. Thank you to all of our sponsors - GELSTX, TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com, and our podcast platform family BlueWire. And thank you to all of our amazing listeners!!!! We love you and can't thank you enough for all the support you've given us on our crazy podcast journey!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we tackle one of the most underrated development habit in hockey: Wall Play If you look at a heat map of where the puck is at during a game...much of the game you would see it is close to the boards. That's why it's so important to focus on building skills in our players along the boards. On this podcast Topher, Ryan Ward, and Rob Rassey discuss all things Wall Play...including: -The art of picking up a rim -Using the boards on retrievals for defensemen -Using the boards on the cycle in the offensive zone -Much More!! This was a fun roundtable episode that we hope you can take some things to use with your players and teams! Thank you to our sponsors GELSTX, TrainHeroic, ICEHOCKEYSYSTEMS.COM, and thank you to all of our loyal listeners!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on the founder of Changing the Game Project, John O'Sullivan. This is a must listen for every coach and parent in sports as John has dedicated his life and business to providing coach and parent education. On this episode, we talk: -Transformational Leadership -How to be hard on players in a way that's demanding, not demeaning -The are of building relationships as a coach -The coach/parent relationship in youth sports -SO MUCH MORE This episode is a game-changer (pun intended) and our listeners are going to get SO MUCH great information from John's experience and perspective. Thank you to John and Changing the Game Project (changingthegameproject.com) for all that they do. Thank you to our sponsors GELSTX, ICEHOCKEYSYSTEMS.COM, TRAINHEROIC. And thank you so much to all of our listeners and supporters who continue to ride with us on this podcast journey! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Topher sits down with former Harvard University coach and Detroit Red Wings scout Rob Rassey to talk about the POWER PLAY. This was an exciting conversation full of talk on strategy, habits, tactics, and much much more on what makes a successful power play. They talk: -Mentality vs. Tactics -Skill sets for different roles on the PP -Data/Analytics of every PP goal scored in an NHL Year -So. Much. More Thank you to our sponsors for continuing to support our podcast in GELSTX, TrainHeroic, and icehockeysystems.com. And thank you to all of our amazing listeners!!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on Zach Jordan. Zach growing up NEVER played AAA hockey but is going to his first NHL Main Camp just 7 short years after being cut from AAA Midget hockey. What an inspiring story! Zach works with Jeff off the ice on his strength and conditioning and has worked extremely hard to play Division One hockey at University of Nebraska-Omaha and just signed a deal in Columbus' organization with their AHL team in Cleveland. After never playing AAA growing up, it shows his perseverance and resiliency to make it to the big leagues. Thank you to Zach for coming on to our podcast to share your amazing journey! Thank you also to GELSTX (gelstx.com), TrainHeroic, and IceHockeySystems.com for supporting our podcast. And a big thank you to all of our amazing listeners! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we are starting a new series that will air every couple weeks called the Windy City Storm Hockey Roundtable! In this series, Topher brings on a few people that he works with to really dive into a specific hockey topic. For the inaugural episode, Topher has on Rob Rassey and Ryan Ward! Rob played his college hockey at Northeastern. He then pursued coaching and had stops at Youngstown (USHL) and Harvard (NCAA). The last two years he has been a scout with the Detroit Red Wings and now Rob is the director of TPH-Chicago hockey academy. Ryan has coached at multiple levels and his stops include the Soo Greyhounds (OHL), New York Islanders (NHL), Toronto Maple Leafs (NHL), Selects Academy (Prep) and he is now the Director of Player Development for the Tri City Storm (USHL) and Hockey Director for the Windy City Storm. On this episode, Topher, Ryan, and Rob talk about TRACKING. The go through: -Why it's important -How it can help create team identity -Getting offensive players to buy into it -The X's and O's of why it works -Much More! We want to provide our listeners so new, fun, and innovative hockey knowledge...so here we go! We want to thank our sponsors GELSTX, TrainHeroic, and IceHockeySystems.com! And as always, we want to thank our amazing listeners who continue to support our podcast! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher come to you LIVE from Jeff's apartment! It was amazing to get in the same room to riff on what they believe are the most important attributes and actions of leaders in the hockey world. They talk: -The importance of making it HARD -Consistency is the key -What kind of coach would you want to play for? -MUCH, MUCH MORE! Thank you to all of our supporters who continue to tune in every week...you guys are going to LOVE this live episode. Thanks you to our sponsors GelStx, IceHockeySystems.com, and TrainHeroic. We love you all! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on one of our most popular guests in hockey development coach Brian Keane! Keaner is a development coach to some of the top players in the world including Patrick Kane, and works as a consultant with the Chicago Blackhawks. This was an amazing episode in talking hockey, where we go through: -How to develop better decision makers -The curiosity of the best players in the world and why that's one of their top attributes -Stimulating player development through failure and problem solving -MUCH MORE!! Thank you to our sponsors GELSTX, TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com and our podcast platform Blue Wire Pods. And thank you to all of our amazing listeners who tune in each week! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we MAILBAG it and take some hockey listener questions! We had a ton of fun with this one, including questions on: -How much hockey should kids do in the summer? -How would you approach a coach as a kid regarding an issue you may have? -As a coach how do you handle a parent asking you about ice time? -Many More!! Thank you to our sponsors GELSTX, TrainHeroic, icehockeysystems.com, and to our podcast parent company BlueWire Pods. And thank you to our amazing listeners who continue to support our show! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we talk to six Cornell Women's hockey alumni playing for Team Canada in this year's World Championships...Rebecca Johnston, Brianne Jenner, Jillian Saulnier, Kristin O'Neill, Jaime Bourbonnais, and Micah Zandee Hart!! Topher got to interview all six women as part of raising awareness for a charity hockey game at Cornell benefitting Racker, a school for kids with special needs in the area. What an inspiring conversation where we talked: -The thrill of playing for Team Canada -Importance of leaving the game better than where they found it -Building camaraderie in an international tournament setting -Advice for young girls with aspirations of playing for their country -MUCH MORE!! Thank you to these amazing women! Thank you also to our title sponsor GELSTX, icehockeysystems.com, TrainHeroic, and BlueWire Pods. You're going to love this episode!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on best selling author and business/leadership coach Craig Ballantyne! Craig has worked with numerous leaders around the world to help grow their businesses and has had incredible success especially with up and coming entrepreneurs. There were so many great parallels between his coaching and what we talk about regarding leadership in sports, and some of the amazing things we talked about include: -Structuring your day to optimize your time -"To Do Lists" and "Not-to-Do Lists" -How less can very much be more -The best ways to achieve accountability -So much more This was a masterclass on leadership and efficiency. We thank Craig so much for hopping on, we know our listeners are going to take a ton from this conversation. You can find Craig's work at craigballantyne.com and pick up his Perfect Day Formula books where you get books today! Thank you to our sponsors: GELSTX (gelstx.com), TrainHeroic App, Ice Hockey Systems (icehockeysystems.com), and our podcast parent company Blue Wire Pods! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on Justin Dowling...who newly signed an NHL contract with the Vancouver Canucks on Free Agent Frenzy Day! We love telling stories like Justin's on this podcast...as he went undrafted in juniors and the NHL but is now going into his 11th year playing professionally. We talk: -How to make it as a smaller player. -Playing with the Dallas Stars in the Stanley Cup Finals bubble in 2020. -Using setbacks to fuel your fire to prove people wrong. -MUCH MORE! Thank you so much to all of our amazing listeners! Please if you can, shoot us a rating and review wherever you get your podcasts today. Thank you to our title sponsor GELSTX, TrainHeroic, and icehockeystystems.com for all of your support for what we do. We know you're going to love this conversation of another NHL player that has defied the odds! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on the new Head Coach at the University of Maine, Ben Barr! Fresh off a National Championship at UMASS as the Associate Head Coach, Ben comes on to the podcast to share his knowledge and wisdom of what it takes to win at the college level. We talk: -The recruiting process -The importance of open, honest conversation -Creating and changing team culture -MUCH MORE! This was such a fun conversation that so many are going to embrace and enjoy. Thank you so much to all of our loyal fans and listeners. Thank you to our sponsors GELSTX, TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com, and our podcast parent company Blue Wire Pods. Blue Wire is doing a really cool initiative if you're looking to get into podcasting,..If interested, submit your Blue Wire Hustle application here: http://bwhustle.com/join Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher take us through some of the toughest times in their careers...and how they got through them. We are big believers on this podcast that adversity makes you stronger if you frame it right, and the guys detail their own times of adversity and what it took to overcome it. They talk: -Getting cut at the youth levels -Topher narrowly missing out on a childhood dream of playing for Team USA -Handling long-term injuries during their careers -Jeff's concussion that kept him out of hockey for over a year after signing an NHL contract -Much More This one got deep, and our hope is that it will resonate with all of our listeners to help them get through some of their tough times. Thank you to all of our supporters and our sponsors. Thank you to GelStx, TrainHeroic, and icehockeysystems. Thank you to BlueWire our podcast platform as well. We know you'll enjoy this episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on Coach Jeremy, the founder of How To Hockey and one of the top social media influencers in our game. He does such an amazing job providing content through videos on youtube, social media, his website howtohockey.com that entertains and educates the hockey world at large. On this episode, we talk: -Spreading and growing passion of the game -Fundamentals vs. Tactics and systems -Building a brand through hard work and adversity -MUCH MORE!! Thank you to Coach Jeremy for giving us and our listeners some awesome insight into growing the game through awesome content based on teaching hockey fundamentals. Thank you also to our sponsors GELSTX, TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com, and our podcast platform BlueWire pods. And our biggest thank you to all of our listeners who continue to support our podcast. You are going to love this conversation with Coach Jeremy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on two junior hockey players who started an UNBELIEVABLE mentorship program for other players looking to get into junior, college, or professional hockey. They founded the Fellowship of Hockey Advancement to help younger players navigate the crazy process of higher level hockey. What an amazing gift from these two young men. On this episode, we talk: -The ups and downs of struggling to try and make it in hockey -The importance of having a great support system -The value of mentorship -Navigating trying to figure out junior hockey -Much More!!! Thanks to these two incredible players for starting this organization that will help A TON OF players and their families. The website is https://fellowshiphockeyadvancement.weebly.com/ to check it out Thank you to our sponsors GELSTX (gelstx.com), ICE HOCKEY SYSTEMS (icehockeysystems.com), and TrainHeroic. Thank you to our podcast family Blue Wire. And thanks to all of our amazing listeners. We think you are going to absolutely love this episode with Connor and Adam! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on Alyssa Gagliardi - Former Team USA national player, Cornell captain, NWHL/PWHPA pro hockey all-star, and now working with the Carolina Hurricanes to grow the sport in Raleigh. This was an UNREAL conversation on player development...while we hardly spoke at all about hockey. Development is so much more than what happens on the ice and Gags gives us a great blueprint on what that should entail. We talk: Mental Skills Social Relationships Nutrition/Sleep Goal Setting Learning Skills SO MUCH MORE Thank you to our awesome sponsors - GELSTX (gelstx.com), icehockeysystems.com, TrainHeroic, and our podcast platform BlueWire. Thank you also to all of our amazing listeners, you are going to get so much better after listening to Gags! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher talk about anything and everything hockey tryouts. They give advice to players on how to stand out and prepare, talk about the process of evaluation and scouting, what they would do if they led a tryout, and go through why the process is so complicated in the lower ages of hockey. Thank you to our title sponsor GelStx (gelstx.com), TrainHeroic, icehockeysystems.com, and our podcast network Blue Wire. And as always, thank you to all of our amazing supporters!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on the hosts of Boston Bruins recap show "Morning Bru with Jaffe and Razor", Billy Jaffe and Andrew Raycroft! This was an awesome episode if you love to get the inside scoop of the Boston Bruins and we talk a lot of hockey as well. Some of the topics include: -Tuukka Rask - How the Bergeron/Marchand/Pastrnak line creates their chemistry -Charlie McAvoy's leadership -An UNREAL story about Brad Marchand chasing criminals... Tune in for a fun conversation with two incredible hockey guys. Thank you to our sponsors GELSTX (gelstx.com), TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to all of our AMAZING listeners. You're gonna love this one, especially if you are a Bruins fan. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we share Topher's presentation to all college hockey coaches at the AHCA (America Hockey Coaches Association) Coaches Convention. This is the 4th year in a row that Topher has been asked to speak in front of this esteemed group of coaches, and this year he tackles what he's learned from his relationships with coaches at the highest levels of hockey. He goes through five takeaways:
Identity is everything
It's all about the people
Developing leaders
Player accountability
How are you spending your time?
We hope you enjoy this episode! Thank you to all of our sponsors, including GELSTX (gelstx.com), TrainHeroic App, IceHockeySystems.com, and our podcast company we are under Blue Wire Pods. Thank you so much to all of our amazing listeners who continue to push us to be better every episode. And thank you to the ACHA for allowing Topher to speak again at this convention. To get access to more awesome presentations from the convention go to ahcahockey.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring back on Adam Nicholas of Stride Envy Hockey to talk about player development and his journey with the Chicago Steel as they just hoisted the Clark Cup as the USHL champions. This is the fourth time Adam has been on the podcast, and it doesn't disappoint for a second! We talk: -Individual Player Development Plans -Working through relationships between coaches and player development coaches -Methods of teaching development to high level athletes -The Chicago Steel Clark Cup run and the development relationships built with their players Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on mental performance coach and resiliency expert Matt Caldaroni! Matt and his company Molliteum work with high achieving athletes from the professional to youth levels and is a big part of working with the Chicago Steel who just won the USHL's Clark Cup this weekend. On this episode, we talk:
-The definition of mental toughness -The benefits of having a performance alter ego -The importance of being "realistically optimistic" -MUCH MORE!!
This is a must listen to episode for anyone trying to develop their mental toughness and mental game. Thank you to our title sponsor GELSTX, our drill sponsor icehockeysystems.com - listen to the intro for a HUGE ANNOUNCEMENT from them, TrainHeroic, and BlueWire Pods. And most of all thank you to all of our amazing listeners!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on Sioux City (USHL) Assistant Coach and one of Jeff's former coaching mates, Mike Berra. One of the most frequent questions we get asked is from young coaches trying to break into the business. They want to know what it takes and how to break in to coach at the higher levels. Well, we thought we'd bring someone on who has done it. Mike started coaching Bantam AA Hockey and is now coaching in the top junior league in the USA and one of the top in the world.
This podcast has so many lessons for young coaches and it was awesome getting the chance to hear Mike's journey and all the things he's learned along the way. Thank you to our all of our sponsors, including GELSTX.COM, TrainHeroic, ICEHOCKEYSYSTEMS.COM, and thank you to our podcast platform Bluewire Pods. And most of all, thank you to all of our awesome listeners for tuning in with us each week. You are going to love this one! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher navigate the last year of Topher being a youth hockey director. They don't hold back and talk about the good, bad, and the ugly side of youth hockey. They tackle:
-Parents -Setting a Culture -Dealing with Covid -What went well, what didn't, and what was learned -Much More!
Take a listen to get into the nitty gritty of what is great...and what is broken about the youth hockey system. Thank you to our sponsors GELSTX, TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com, and BlueWire Pods. And as always, thank you to all of our amazing listeners!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on Evan Rankin, a former teammate who played over 500 professional games. This was an awesome conversation that covered:
-Playing for Tampa Bay Lightning coach Jon Cooper in midget hockey -How to score as a net-front player -The value of a team that has each other's backs -Much, Much More!
Thank you to all of our sponsors, GELSTX, TRAINHEROIC, ICEHOCKEYSYSTEMS.COM. And thank you to our thousands of amazing listeners who continue on this awesome podcast ride with us! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, get ready for a Masterclass on Leadership from Jen Baker – Athletic Director at Johns Hopkins University. Jen went to college at Navy where she was a National Champion Club Lacrosse player and graduated with a degree in aerospace engineering. She then spent 7 years in the Navy as a pilot and facilities manager before going to Cornell University to get her MBA.
At Cornell, Jen worked her way from graduate student to Associate Athletic Director and implemented the “Big Red Leadership Institute” which taught athletes how to become better leaders. After returning home to Baltimore to run the facilities for corporate giant Under Armor, Jen now has taken the job as Athletic Director with Johns Hopkins. Quite the resume!!
This was such an amazing conversation on leadership where we tackle:
-The value of self-awareness -The value of player leadership in a locker room (and why more coaches should invest in this) -The importance of followership -What it means to be a great teammate -So Much More!
Jen is the best and we know you are going to take a lot from this episode. Thank you to our sponsors GelStx (gelstx.com), icehockeysystems.com, and TrainHeroic. And our biggest thank you to all of our listeners who continue to ride this podcast wave with us every week! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on Head Coach of Norwich University, Cam Ellsworth! Cam is the reining D3 NCAA Coach of the Year after leading Norwich to being a runner up in the National Championship and breaking 9 NCAA D3 records including having a GAA under 1.00!!! Prior to being at Norwich, Cam helped lead the resurgence at UMASS Lowell. On this podcast, we talk:
-His team's unreal defensive prowess -Coaching goalies including Connor Hellebuyck -The life of a college hockey recruiter -D3 Hockey -Much More!!!
Thank you to all of our listeners, you are going to love this episode with a great human being. Thank you to our sponsors GELSTX, icehockeysystems.com, TrainHeroic, and thank you to BlueWire Pods! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on the Head Coach of Army Hockey, Brian Riley. The Riley family has held the Head Coach position at Army for the last 70 years, and to hear Brian talk about the passion he and his family have for the program is nothing short of amazing. We also talk:
-Creating a culture of family -The legacies Derek Hines and Thomas "TK" Kennedy, two of his players killed in action -What makes an "Army kind of player" on the recruiting trail -The importance of adversity
This was one of the most inspiring episodes that we've done, amazing. Thank you to Coach Riley for sharing his wisdom and thank you to our sponsors GelStx, TrainHeroic, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to all of our amazing listeners, you are going to love this conversation! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on Matt Fornataro - former professional hockey player that started a multimedia company (torchpro.com) taking you behind the scenes of some of the best players in the world. In this conversation, we talk:
-Why Joe Pavelski is so great -Playing for Jon Cooper -How repetition leads to excellence -The importance of always adding skills to your game -Much More!
Thank you to all of our incredible sponsors, including GELSTX (gelstx.com), icehockeysystems.com, and TrainHeroic. Thank you to Blue Wire Pods for welcoming us into their podcast family. And thank you to our awesome listeners who continue to help us spread positivity to the hockey world! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on NHL Draft writer and one of the top hockey journalists in the game, Chris Peters! Chris has done some awesome work writing for companies like CBS Sports and ESPN. On this episode, we cover all things NHL draft including...
-Old school vs. New school scouting -Learning from your mistakes -How important is character when drafting? -Skill vs. impact -Much more on the NHL Draft
This was an awesome conversation! Thank you to our title sponsor GELSTX (gelstx.com), our drill sponsor icehockeysystems.com, our training sponsor TrainHeroic, and all of our amazing listeners!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring recognized skill development coach, Dwayne Blais! In this conversation we talk:
-The most important skills in hockey and breaking them down -Unstructured play -Isolated vs. transferrable skills -Being a development coach for the Washington Capitols -Much More!!
Thanks to our sponsors GELSTX (gelstx.com), icehockeysystems.com, TrainHeroic, and all our awesome listeners. For some great hockey content from Dwayne, visit thensda.com! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we reached out to YOU to see what your hot button topics are in the game of hockey and you delivered with some awesome questions and issues! We addressed what triggers you about the hockey world and got a little heated ourselves! We talked:
-The "Me" Attitude of players today -Coaching communication struggles -Anonymous message boards (really?) -Lack of preparation from players and coaches -Participation trophies -MUCH MORE
This was a fun episode as we always love interacting with our listeners and hearing what you want us to talk about. We had SO MANY people reach out, THANK YOU!
Thank you to our sponsors GELSTX.COM, ICEHOCKEYSYSTEMS.COM, and TRAINHEROIC training app! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on Boston Bruins forward Trent Frederic! Jeff is Trent's strength coach during the summer and we had a blast catching up with him. In this conversation, we talk:
-The "Cup Check" from Ovi
-Being 1 of 5 first round draft picks from St. Louis in one year
-Boston Bruins culture
-Adapting to different roles as a player
-Much More!
Thank you to our title sponsor GELSTX (gelstx.com), our drill sponsor icehockeysystems.com, our training sponsor TrainHeroic, and thank you to all of our awesome listeners! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on Brian Yandle...awesome hockey guy and the #rinkshrink you've heard on his podcast and Spittin Chiclets. This was an awesome conversation that will resonate with a lot of parents and coaches talking about the most important aspects of youth hockey development. We talk:
-It's a marathon, not a sprint.
-The importance of playing multiple sports
-Being a parent coach
-SO MUCH MORE
This was a really informative conversation on everything youth hockey...we know you'll enjoy! Thanks to Brian for hopping on the podcast...our title sponsor GELSTX, our drill sponsor icehockeysystems.com, our training sponsor TrainHeroic, and all of our amazing listeners for continuing along this podcast journey with us!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring 6x World Champion and 3x Olympic Medalists Jocelyne and Monique Lamoureux! They will go down as two of the top Women's Hockey players of all time, but their impact on the game of hockey, especially for women, has been game-changing.
On this podcast, we talked...
-Growing up in a hockey-crazy household.
-How they became top 5 women's college hockey scorers of all-time.
-The potential 2017 World Championship boycott
-The 2018 Gold Medal at the Olympics
-Their passion for changing the game for the next generation of women.
Check out their new book - "Dare to Make History: Chasing a Dream and Fighting for Equality" Their journey is so inspiring and you'll get a great view into their impact from our podcast and their book.
Thank you to our title sponsor GelStx (gelstx.com), our drill sponsor icehockeysystems.com, TrainHeroic, and to all of our awesome listeners. We can't wait for you to be inspired from this podcast episode!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on the creators of the App and website PROJECT HOCKEY, Danny Heath and Evan Karambelas. This was a fun episode where we talk...
-Growing up playing in non-traditional areas
-How to "do the extra work"
-How competition breeds excellence
-Danny and Evan's PROJECT HOCKEY community of players pushing each other to get better.
Check out projecthockey.com for more details!
Thank you to our title sponsor GELSTX (gelstx.com), our drill sponsor icehockeysystems.com, and our training sponsor TrainHeroic. And thank you to all of our awesome listeners every week!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on Head Coach at the University of Vermont, Todd Woodcroft! Todd has worn so many hats during his career coaching and scouting at the highest levels of hockey including stints with the Minnesota Wild, Winnipeg Jets, Calgary Flames, Washington Capitals, LA Kinds, KHL, Team Sweden, Switzerland, and Belarus!! Quite the resume!
We talk about his journey, some of his influences like Paul Maurice, Mike Babcock, and Jacques Lemaire, and his transition into becoming the Head Coach at UVM. We talk leadership, mentorship, building teams, and so much more.
Thank you to our sponsors GELSTX (gelstx.com), TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com, and to all of our listeners!
*Opening music: Forget the Whale - Take to the Skies (Instrumental)
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on Rich Cohen...a New York Times best selling author who just came out with his latest book book "Pee-Wee: Confessions of a Hockey Parent". This episode was a lot of fun where we discuss the craziness and hilarity of being a hockey parent through the lens of Rich's book where he chronicled an entire youth hockey season.
This episode was full of laughs, hilarious stories, along with some great insight and perspective on being a hockey parent. We think you are going to absolutely love this episode!
Thank you to our title sponsor, GELSTX (gelstx.com), our drill sponsor icehockeysystems.com, our training sponsor TrainHeroic...and thank you to all of our listeners! Have fun with this one!
*Opening music: Forget the Whale - Take to the Skies (Instrumental)
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank Podcast, we bring on Head Coach of the OHL's Saginaw Spirit Chris Lazary! This conversation was absolute GOLD! We talk:
-Development vs. Winning Games
-Player and relationship centered coaching
-Coaching the top young players in the world
-MUCH MUCH MORE
We LOVED this conversation with Chris, and we think everyone will take a ton out of his experiences working his way up into one of the top coaches in the Ontario Hockey League.
Thank you to our title sponsor, GELSTX...our drill sponsor icehockeysystems.com, our training sponsor TrainHeroic, and to all of our AMAZING listeners who continue to rock it with us every week!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on former Army Ranger and now Team Building and Leadership consultant JB Spisso. JB has worked with many organizations and teams, including the Pittsburgh Penguins, New York Rangers, and Montreal Canadiens, on building culture and leadership. This was an awesome conversation where we dive into:
-Building Leaders
-Defining and building mental toughness
-Parallels of military leadership and training to hockey
-Much more
Thanks to JB and all members of the Armed Forces for everything they do protecting our country and freedoms! We truly would not have these freedoms without the selfless sacrifice of these warriors and their families.
Thank you to our title sponsor, GELSTX...our drill sponsor icehockeysystems.com, our training sponsor TrainHeroic, and all of our awesome listeners who are along for this podcast ride with us.
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on Sport Psychologist Dr. Cassidy Preston to talk about the mental game as a player and how to get the best out of your team as a coach. This was a really informative conversation where we cover:
-Mental Toughness
-The importance of building resiliency
-How to make "Getting 1% Better" sexy
-Optimal Levels of Energy/Arousal
-The importance of self-awareness and reflection
-MUCH MORE!
Thank you to our title sponsor, GELSTX, our training sponsor TrainHeroic, our drill sponsor icehockeysystems.com, and to all of our great listeners! This will be an episode that you can take with you on your journey!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on Assistant Coach with the Austrian National Team currently at the World Junior Championships...Philipp Pinter. It was great going behind the scenes with an underdog coaching staff during their quest to upset the bigger named countries during the International Championships. In this conversation, we talk:
-Austrian Development
-The difficulties of the European Model in a smaller country
-World Junior adjustments of play
-Being an underdog playing against the top players in the world
This was a fun conversation we hope you will enjoy! Thanks to our title sponsor GELSTX, our drill sponsor icehockeysystems.com, our training sponsor TrainHeroic, and all of our awesome, loyal listeners!!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on current University of Michigan Assistant Coach...and Assistant Coach for Team USA at this year's World Junior Championship...Kris Mayotte! With World Juniors starting this week, Kris brings us inside Team USA's walls to show us what it's like being a part of the experience at the tournament. In this episode, we tackle:
-Coaching the best players in the world at 18-19 years old, including Team USA and also 3 potential Top 10 NHL picks in next year's draft at Michigan.
-Winning the World Junior Gold Medal a few years ago against Canada on Canadian soil.
-The importance of team Building at a tournament where you're only there for a few weeks.
-MUCH MORE!
This was an awesome episode, we're looking forward to sharing it with all of you. Thank you to our title sponsor GELSTX, our drill sponsor icehockeysystems.com, our training sponsor TrainHeroic...and thank you to all of our listeners!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we answer your questions! Thanks to everyone who submitted questions on social media...and here's what we covered:
-When should my kid make the jump to AAA?
-How can I keep my kid engaged during Covid so they don't feel like they're getting left behind?
-How can we build team culture with the player point of view at the forefront?
-What is our favorite part of doing the podcast?
-How early should we think about using a sport psychologist for our kid?
This was a lot of fun being able to hear from YOU and talk about the topics you are looking for answers for. Hopefully we gave you some insight from our own experiences!
This podcast's title sponsor is GELSTX, our drill sponsor is icehockeysystems.com, our training sponsor is TrainHeroic. Thank you to our sponsors and thank you to our listeners for all of your support!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on hockey development pioneer who works with some of the top names in the game, Darryl Belfry. Darryl's client list includes the likes of Sidney Crosby, Patrick Kane, Auston Matthews, John Tavares...among other of the NHL's elite. Darryl also just came out with a book, "Belfry Hockey: Strategies to Teach the World's Best Athletes."
On this podcast we cover so great topics, including:
-Darryl's journey to working with the top players in the world.
-Can you teach offense?
-Manipulating failure and success rates in your coaching.
-Linking transition hockey with hockey sense.
Lot of great hockey we cover on this one, we're really excited to bring it to all of our listeners. Thank you to our title sponsor GELSTX, Jeff's training app sponsor TrainHeroic, our newest sponsor icehockeysystems.com and our drill of the week, "Picket Fence Drill", and thank you to all of our listeners who continue to support our mission each week to bring a little more positivity to the hockey world!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on 10 year pro and one of Jeff's college teammates Brent Walton. Brent comes from a small town in Ontario and he takes us through his journey into becoming one of the top scorers in the NCAA and then a long professional career. We talk:
-When to make the move to AAA
-The ups and downs of transitioning to professional hockey
-The decision to stay in North America to try and "make it" or go over to Europe
-Off ice training education importance
-MUCH MORE
This was a fun one! Thank you to our title sponsor, GELSTX. Go to GELSTX.COM to get an awesome weighted training stick used by many pros...and use the coupon code "THINKTANK to get a little discount. Thank you to our drill sponsor icehockeysystems.com...this week's drill we cover is 3v3 handball! Thank you to all of our listeners, we appreciate your support for us trying to make the hockey world a better place!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on one of my favorite players that I've had the opportunity to coach in Cole Bardreau. Cole's story is one of major ups and downs throughout his career, and it culminated last year getting his first NHL call up with the New York Islanders and scoring his first career goal on a penalty shot.
Cole played for the USA NTDP, then came to Cornell where I coached him. While there, he was asked to play for the US World Junior team where he won a gold medal. The next weekend...his world almost fell apart. He got hit from behind into the boards and broke his neck, very close to paralyzing him. He missed the rest of the season, but worked his tail off to get back. After his senior year on sheer grit and determination he signed an NHL contract, but not until four years later did he receive his first call up to the NHL. The resiliency is such an incredible story.
Now, even as an NHL player, he has started a company "Bardreau Mentoring Group" where he aims to mentor young hockey players as a professional player himself. This is such an awesome initiative...visit bardreaumentoringgroup.com to find out more.
On top of our title sponsor in GELSTX (gelstx.com) we have a new sponsor in icehockeysystems.com as well! At the beginning of every episode, we will talk about a drill on their website and on this episode we chose the 3v3 Gates of Buffalo!
Thank you to all of our listeners who continue to support our podcast, you are going to love this one with Cole Bardreau!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on Katie Strang, a fantastic hockey and investigative reporter for The Athletic. Katie is a prominent figure in hockey journalism, and we spend most of this podcast talking about a story she has written extensively on regarding a youth hockey coach's history with sexual abuse of youth hockey players.
Katie wrote her first article on this subject in February which brought to the public the scandal of this coach's misconducts, along with how people in hockey leadership failed to handle the situation. This is a podcast that contains language about sexual abuse, so disclaimer for any families that typically listen to our podcast with their kids.
While a tough subject to speak on, we believe that this episode will provide some positive change.
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher go through their greatest hockey memories. From skating on the backyard rink at their Grandma and Grandpa's house, to their first college and professional games, to overtime winners, to favorite off-ice memories with their teammates...this episode has a lot of heart and is full of fun.
And speaking of backyard rinks...
We bring onto the podcast for the second half Jim and Tyler Stoller of NiceRink, a top backyard rink company in North America. Jim and Tyler answer all of your listener questions submitted to social media about the best ways to build a backyard rink, and then we give a secret hashtag to be entered to win a FREE 24x44 backyard rink from NiceRink!!
Details of the contest are in the podcast episode and a random winner will be named on 11/20 from those who use the secret hashtag on our social media channels. Listen to a great episode and get entered into this amazing contest today!!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on one of the top hockey strength and conditioning coaches in the world, Matt Nichol. Matt is based out of Ontario and trains some of the top players in hockey, along with Olympic athletes in many other sports.
This was an awesome conversation where we hit on the importance of strength and conditioning, but Matt also brings us into the mind of elite level athletes...and the top athletes in the world. If you want to know what it takes to be at that level, and how to find a way to get as close to your potential as you can, this episode will be a great one for you.
Big thanks to Matt for coming on the podcast, and big thanks to our sponsors GELSTX and TrainHeroic as well. And as always, thank you to our supporters and fans who continue to inspire us to bring the best guests on we can! Matt is at the top of that list, hope you enjoy this episode!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on NHL veteran of over 700 games and a former 4th overall draft Bryan Allen! Bryan has some amazing hockey experience and is bringing that as a passionate youth hockey coach now, and we get into some really thought-provoking conversations around the state of youth hockey today. This is a great episode for all involved in the youth hockey experience!
Thanks to Bryan, and thank you to our title sponsor GELSTX, Jeff's training App TrainHeroic, and all of our great listeners in the hockey world!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on one of the most inspiring guests we've ever had on in so many different ways, Craig Cunningham. Craig defied the odds to make it to the NHL as an undersized player, but an incident while he was playing in the AHL for the Tucson Roadrunners changed his life forever.
During a game, he suffered cardiac arrest and collapsed on the ice. Miraculously, he was revived due to the incredible work by doctors. Craig has persevered through that challenge, including losing part of one of his legs in a surgery, to be an inspiration to so many, including those he works with in player development.
We touch on his recovery, but this was an AWESOME talk on hockey and hockey development. Craig is as passionate as they come about the game, and you are going to love this episode!
Thank you to GELSTX our title sponsor...visit gelstx.com and use the coupon code "THINKTANK" for a discount off a training stick.
Thank you to TrainHeroic, Jeff's slick training app that houses all his workouts.
And thank you to our listeners for all of your support for our podcast. This is a special episode, let us know what you think by shooting us a review wherever you get your podcasts today!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring back on Patrick O'Sullivan, former NHL player now working in hockey development with youth all the way up to the NHL levels. Patrick is one of the smartest hockey minds in the game, and we all will get better from listening to this one! We talk:
-How to find space on the ice
-What it really means to play well defensively
-Developing to a role vs. developing the player
-Teaching the importance of the players without the puck
-MUCH MORE
Thanks to GELSTX our title sponsor who has the best training sticks in the game! Thanks to TrainHeroic, the App where you can find Jeff's training regimens. And thank you to our loyal listeners! Shoot us a rating or review wherever you get your podcast today to provide us some feedback as well!
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HUGE ANNOUNCEMENT FROM THE HOCKEY THINK TANK!!!
We have made a Hockey Parent Survival Guide for all hockey parents out there looking for some guidance on the craziness that is youth hockey. As a former college recruiter, I've gotten the chance to speak with hundreds of families...and one of the biggest sources of their stress is that they all have trouble navigating their son or daughter's youth hockey journey. So...we made this easy-to-use Survival Guide to help all families put their kids in the best position to achieve their dreams while also helping them to destress and enjoy the process as well!
On this podcast, we preview the Hockey Parent Survival Guide by talking about all 12 topics represented in the course. Those topics include:
Choosing a Team
The Car Ride Home
Life Skills Built in Hockey
Playing Multiple Sports vs Specialization
Parent Culture
Parent/Coach Communication
Off Ice Insight (w/ Jeff LoVecchio)
Breaking Down the Costs of Hockey
What's Your Why?
Advisors 101
Junior Hockey - Explained
Pathway to College Hockey
If you'd like to purchase this survival guide, it's only $25 and because we love you if you use the coupon code "HOCKEY" at checkout you can get it for $19.99. 20 bucks for peace of mind on the youth hockey process...that's a deal!
Visit: http://thehockeythinktank.teachable.com/p/parent-survival-guide to purchase today!!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on Drew Laine...and get educated about the world of hockey equipment. We live at a time where the cost of equipment is pricing people out of the sport, but Drew and his colleagues created a company to combat the problem and creatively brought the hockey world together in the process. This was an inspiring conversation in so many ways, and the meaning of service and compassion come full swing. Thank you for listening!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on one of our most inspiring guests, Ben Eaves. Ben comes from an amazing hockey family and lead an incredible hockey career that included National Championships at the youth level with Shattuck St. Mary's and in college at Boston College. In this episode, we talked to Ben about:
-Growing up and having support from a great hockey family.
-Using adversity as an opportunity to learn and grow.
-Playing through injuries (WHAT A STORY ABOUT SENDING BC TO THE FROZEN FOUR PLAYING ON ONE LEG)
-Much, much more.
We got better as hosts from learning from Ben and his enthusiasm on this podcast, and we know our listeners will too. He might be the most well-liked people in the hockey industry, and it will come to no surprise for anyone that listens to this episode. Check it out!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on former NHL player and one of Jeff's old teammates Casey Borer! This was an awesome conversation where we talked:
-Growing up in MN
-Playing at Shattuck St. Mary's with so many future NHL players
-Persevering through a possible career ending injury to come back and play in the NHL
-Playing professional hockey around the world
This was a fun and insightful conversation...enjoy!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff & Topher get in depth on the structures, skills, habits, and principles of effective Offensive and Defensive Zone play. Another episode of some pure hockey talk...hope you enjoy!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on one of my best friends in the business and the most positive person I know, Nick Petraglia. Trags and I coached together for one year at Miami-Ohio and we've stayed close ever since...going through the many ups, downs, and amazing times together through our journeys coaching college hockey. We talk:
-The powerhouse of Shattuck St. Mary's
-The transition from playing to coaching
-The building championship cultures (we won the CCHA championship and coached Hobey Baker winner Andy Miele our year coaching together)
-Transitioning into youth hockey from coaching in college
This is one of my favorite episodes we've done...guaranteed to uplift your spirits!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on Stanley Cup champion and Minnesota Hockey Hall of Famer Tom Chorske! We had a great conversation with Tom who has great perspective on the game from being:
-Minnesota High School Hockey player
-Stanley Cup Champion NHL player
-NHL Hockey Analyst
-Current GM of a NAHL team
We talked a lot of hockey, he told a lot of stories about his days in the NHL...including about Scott Stevens, Jacques Lemaire, Wayne Gretzky, and Mike Milbury. This one was a lot of fun, we hope you enjoy!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on country music star Julia Cole! This was such a fun episode where we talked about so many of the parallels between "making it" in country music and "making it" in hockey. We also talked a lot about how sports is such a great teacher of life lessons, and Julia was fantastic giving us some awesome perspective on the grind it takes to be successful in her line of work.
Thank you to Julia for taking the time to come on our podcast. She has a new EP out called HONEY CHILD...we encourage everyone to check it out!!
Thank you to GELSTX our title sponsor...thank you to TrainHeroic Jeff's workout app...and thanks the most to all of our listeners who support us week after week!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on a pHD and Professor of Educational Leadership at Ferris State University, Brady Flachs. We always talk about how so much of coaching isn't the X's and O's...it's about teaching. And bringing Brady on to talk about Leadership, motivation, and the parallels between teaching and coaching...this was an UNREAL conversation. We talk:
-Teaching Creativity
-Preparation and Intentionality
-Empowering Students in their own Learning
-Creating the right Environment
-MUCH MORE!
This episode we learned a ton! Thank you to our title sponsor GELSTX, Jeff's training app TRAINHEROIC, and thank you to all of our loyal listeners!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher talk PLAYOFF HOCKEY. They go through what makes it so special, how it's different from the regular season, how to prepare as a player or coach, and much more.
Jeff and Topher also go through the TOP 10 most downloaded episodes of the podcast for all of the new listeners to go back to. Very interesting to see which episodes have been the most popular and have had the greatest impact!
Thank you to GELSTX our title sponsor, TrainHeroic another sponsor, and thank you to all of our amazing listeners who continue to support our podcast.
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we have an incredibly powerful conversation and one of the most inspirational guests we've had with Topher's little brother, Max Scott. Max lives with intellectual and social disabilities through a genetic disorder called Fragile X, and while it's not always easy it hasn't deterred Max from accomplishing some amazing things in his life.
We talk about how from a young age Max played hockey but was bullied and didn't have the best experience. But as an adult, Max has taken on a new love for the game as he mentors/coaches many kids to the absolute best of his abilities.
This episode has some laughs, some emotional moments, and a lot of life lessons for all kids that are around hockey locker rooms today. It's our can't miss episode and we are so excited to bring it to you.
Thank you to our title sponsor GelStx and our supporting sponsor TrainHeroic. And thank you to all of our loyal listeners who continue to amaze us. This will be an extremely special podcast episode.
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on former NHL player Patrick O'Sullivan to talk some hockey and his journey through the game! This was an extremely open and honest conversation that any hockey player, parent, or coach will be able to take a lot from. We talk:
-Growing up with a physically abusive father
-Being a phenom at the younger ages (Played junior hockey at 13!)
-Scoring the game winning goal to help secure USA's first ever gold medal at the World Junior Championships
-An unreal encounter with Wayne Gretzky at the NHL draft
-The human side of the NHL journey
-Falling back in love with the game and helping youth hockey players today
Thanks so much again to Patrick for hopping on the podcast! Thank you also to GELSTX, our title sponsor. And thank you to all of our loyal listeners who continue to make our podcast one of the top hockey podcasts out there!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher talk about HOCKEY HABITS that are essential for hockey players in the game today. They break it down through:
-
Team Offensive Habits
-
Team Defensive Habits
-
Individual Forward Habits
-
Individual Defensemen Habits
-
Attitude Habits
Topher also talks about the charity hockey "game" he is chairing this summer. If you'd like to donate to the cause, visit: https://www.givegab.com/p2p/RRBR2020/topher-scott
Thank you to our title sponsor, GelStx, for continuing to support our podcast. Thank you to TrainHerioc, the training app that Jeff uses to make his workouts available to the masses. And thank you to our passionate listeners, we love you!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on former #1 overall NHL draft pick Patrik Stefan. What a journey filled with ups and downs for the incredibly skilled forward from Czech Republic, and we go through many of those ups and downs in this conversation...which many can be great lessons for players coming up in the game today. We talk:
-Coming over to the USA at the age of 16 to play pro hockey.
-The thrill and pressures of being drafted #1 overall in the NHL.
-Advice to his younger self.
-Handling the ups and downs of an NHL career.
-Mentoring up and coming players today.
This was an awesome, candid, honest conversation with a great player and now mentor. We're looking forward to all young players listening!
Thank you to all of our listeners for continuing to support our podcast and mission to make the game of hockey better. Thank you to our title sponsor, GELSTX, and also Jeff's workout app sponsor TrainHeroic.
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on current Director of Hockey Operations for the Providence College Men's team and first ever woman hired to be on a USA World Junior Coaching Staff...Theresa Feaster!
Theresa is an incredible hockey mind with a lot of knowledge to share, and on this episode we talk:
-Her finding love for the game with her Dad.
-Her role with Providence and her love for video work.
-Prescouts, scouting players, and the grind of hockey ops.
-Representing Team USA as their first female coach.
What a great conversation this was as part of our OUTSTANDING WOMEN IN HOCKEY week presented by the PWHPA! Thank you also to our title sponsor, GELSTX...and Trainheroic as well. And most importantly, thank you to all of our loyal listeners...we appreciate your support for our mission to make the game of hockey better!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on Head Coach for the University of Minnesota Duluth Bulldogs Women's team...Maura Crowell. Maura also coaches USA Hockey's Under 18 team that won the gold medal in the U18 championships last year. This was an awesome conversation for any coach looking to get better, or any player looking to find out more information about the college recruiting process for girls hockey. We talk:
-The art of teaching
-College recruiting
-Filling in as Interim Head Coach at Harvard for legend Katy Stone
-The biggest turnaround in UMD history after being hired there
-Winning the Gold Medal at the U18 championships with Team USA
-The importance of mentorship from National Team and pro players in women's hockey
-Much more!
This was a fantastic conversation that made us all better, and is part of our continuing OUTSTANDING WOMEN IN HOCKEY series sponsored by the PWHPA. We want to take this chance to thank our title sponsor, GELSTX and also TrainHeroic for supporting our podcast. And most of all, thank you to all of our loyal listeners who tune in to our podcast every week!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we continue our OUTSTANDING WOMEN IN HOCKEY series by bringing on Canadian Royalty and one of the best players to ever play the game...Jayna Hefford. She's a 4x Olympic Gold Medalist, one of the leading scorers of all time in professional women's hockey, was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame, and awarded into the Order of Hockey in Canada in 2019. On top of that, she has been a major advocate for women's hockey through the PWHPA and has won numerous awards for her service to her community and the game. In this awesome conversation, we talk:
-The origins of internal motivation and drive
-The importance in having passion for what you do
-ALLLLLL the Olympics and what it means to play for Team Canada
-Her continued pursuit to better the game of women's hockey for the next generation of girls coming up.
This conversation was so much fun and so inspiring...you are going to love hearing about the journey and mindset of one of the best to ever play the game. Thank you to the PWHPA for sponsoring this OUTSTANDING WOMEN IN HOCKEY series! Thank you to GelStx our title sponsor, Trainheroic, and to all of our listeners who support our mission to provide a little bit of education and inspiration regarding the GREATEST GAME ON THE PLANET!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast...we start off our OUTSTANDING WOMEN IN HOCKEY SERIES by bringing on gold medal winning Olympian with Team USA Nicole Hensley. This is an amazing conversation about that spans Nicole's inspiring career to what is happening with the women's game today. We talk:
-Her incredible story to become a D1 starting goalie.
-What it means to have "hockey sense" as a goalie.
-Winning Olympic Gold.
-The PWHPA and the Dream Gap Tour.
-Sacrificing her own career for the next generation of women coming up.
We are so excited to have our OUTSTANDING WOMEN IN HOCKEY series sponsored by the PWHPA! Thank you also to our title sponsor GelStx, Trainheroic, and to all of our loyal listeners who tune in to our podcast. You are going to love this highly inspiring conversation with one of the top women's goalies in the world!!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher talk some youth hockey development! Their conversation centers around 5 cornerstone, which they label the "5 C's"
-Creativity
-Competitiveness
-Coachability
-Community
-Charisma
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*Which leads to CONFIDENCE!
We talk why these attributes are important, how to improve them in players, and give basic fundamental principles of youth hockey development. We hope you'll enjoy!
Thank you to our title sponsor in GELSTX. Head over to gelstx.com and use the coupon code "Thinktank" to receive a discount on hockey training sticks. And thank you to all of our listeners who continue to be the oxygen for us in our show!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on Assistant Coach for Colorado College Leon Hayward. As one of only two African American coaches in D1 Hockey, we speak with Leon about the current state of our country and our hockey world as it pertains to race relations and racism. In this conversation Leon gives us a great window into what it is like as an African American in our sport. With this incredibly open and honest dialogue about a really tough topic to talk about in racism, we hope to bring some much needed awareness and perspective to our listeners. Thank you.
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on Phil McRae...an awesome guest with a great hockey pedigree along with some great things that he has going on in the hockey world right now. Phil was highly recognizable even at a younger age...as he was granted a spot on the USA NTDP as an underager. He then went on to play for London in the OHL with players like Patrick Kane and John Tavares. He was a second round draft pick by the St. Louis Blues and played a lot of years of pro hockey. Now Phil is the director of TPH St. Louis' Center of Excellence. We got into a lot of great topics on this podcast:
-The art and importance of passing
-Being a phenom growing up
-What we all would have done differently in our hockey journeys
-Mentoring the youth hockey players of today
-MUCH more.
This was a really thought provoking interview, we think you'll really enjoy it. Thank you to GELSTX, our title sponsor. Thank you to TrainHeroic. And thank you to all our listeners who continue to make this one of the top hockey podcasts in the world!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring back on former first round NHL draft pick, 12th leading scorer all time in the OHL, and 600+ professional game veteran Rob Schremp! This was a great conversation where we talked:
-How Rob has changed the way he sees hockey post retirement.
-How to teach Hockey Sense/IQ
-Seeing the game from the net out
-Positionless Hockey
-Relating sports to business
We are thrilled to support Rob and Jeff's new venture with 44 Vision Hockey, where Rob has former pro players, and women's Olympians, teaching kids the game of hockey through video. Thank you to GELSTX, our title sponsor...and TrainHeroic, the app where Jeff stores his workouts. And thank you, as always, to all of our listeners and fans for continuing to support our mission in the greatest game on the planet!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring the Athletic Director for Long Island University Bill Martinov. LIU shocked the hockey world with the announcement of adding a Division One men's hockey team, and we talk to Bill about the process that lead to this all coming to fruition. We go through:
-Long Island University and Athletics
-The process of making the decision to go Division One in men's hockey
-Questions surrounding the coach, facilities, scheduling
-Much more!
Thank you to GELSTX, our title sponsor for the podcast. And thank you to all of our listeners who continue to make this one of the most listened to hockey podcasts out there!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on Sports Psychologist and mental game coach Dr. Adam Naylor. This was a great conversation with Adam centered around the mental aspects of the game and we cover some really insightful topics:
-Good vs. Bad Compliments
-The importance of resiliency and being challenged
-The difference between fun and enjoyment
-How to develop passion
-Much more!
We absolutely loved this really insightful talk with Adam and we know that you will too! Thank you to all of our supporters who continue to drive this podcast into one of the fastest growing hockey podcasts in the world. And thank you to our title sponsor, GelStx, for your continued support of our mission to provide some education and inspiration to the hockey universe.
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on Head Coach of Arizona State University Greg Powers. This was a powerful conversation where we talk to Greg about the blueprint of bringing ASU from a club program to a Division One power. ASU made their first tournament last season (and would have made it this season without Covid) and their staff has done an incredible job making ASU a nationally recognized team in so few years. We talk:
-Greg's powerful childhood story
-The process, ups, and downs of bringing ASU to Division 1
-Building his team through recruiting and culture
-No Excuses, Ever
This was an awesome conversation that brings you inside access into one of college hockey's best stories over the past few years. Thank you to all of our listeners for continuing to support our mission of providing the hockey world with a little bit of education and a little bit of inspiration regarding the greatest game on the planet. And thank you to our title sponsor, GELSTX, for continuing to believe in our podcast as well!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on Associate Head Coach of the Western Michigan Broncos Pat Ferschweiler. If you are a kid that wants to play college hockey...this is the episode to listen to!
In this episode we give you an inside look into college hockey recruiting. What it takes to get there, what coaches look for, and we bring you behind the scenes of what coaches do in identifying and landing players.
Fersch also spent times as an assistant coach with the Detroit Red Wings...and he has an UNREAL story about Pavel Datsyuk that will knock your socks off (HINT: he works really hard). This is an inspiring episode, that really peels back the onion of youth hockey, college hockey, pro hockey, and more.
Thank you to all of our supporters out there following us...and thank you to our title sponsor, GELSTX Sports... and our episode sponsor Train Heroic!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on acclaimed filmmaker Gabe Polsky...who produced and directed two major hockey films that have circulated the hockey world with "In Search of Greatness" and "Red Army". Gabe also was a hockey player himself, having played growing up in Chicago and then Division One at Yale University. In this conversation, we talk a lot about the film "In Search of Greatness" where Gabe interviews Wayne Gretzky, Jerry Rice, Pele, and other academic authors on why/how the Greatest of All Time became that way. We talk:
-Sport Specialization
-Passion
-Building Hockey Sense/Game Sense
-Providing the right environment for development
-Much More!!
This is a film that is a must-watch for any parent, player, or coach with dreams of achieving great things. Gabe does such an amazing job with this movie, and it was enlightening talking to him about it on our podcast.
Thank you to all of our listeners for continuing to tune in, and thank you to our title sponsor GelStx for supporting our podcast!
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On this 100th(!) episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on ESPN Sportscenter Anchor and huge #cawlidgehockey advocate John Buccigross!!!! This was a phenomenal conversation and Bucci brings so much passion...we had an absolute blast. On this episode we talk:
-His early career in getting to ESPN
-The NHL2night days
-His love for hockey, especially #cawlidgehockey
-The origin of the #bucciotchallenge
-The love of being a hockey parent
-The unbelievably inspiring story of Brendan Burke
We want to take this chance to thank all of you listeners. We literally can't believe we are at 100 episodes of this podcast. Your support has driven us to keep this thing rolling, and we really wanted a special guest for you for our 100th. Bucci absolutely brings it, and we're so honored to continue bringing you a little bit of education, and a little bit of inspiration, regarding THE GREATEST GAME ON THE PLANET. And thanks always for the support from GelStx as well...you guys are the best.
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on Head of Player Development for Frolunda in the top Swedish league overseas. Frolunda is highly regarded as one of the top programs in Sweden, and getting the chance to speak with Tobias did not disappoint! He has coached and developed the likes of Rasmus Dahlin, the number one draft pick overall to Buffalo a few years ago...and Lucas Raymond who is projected to go in the Top 5 of next year's NHL draft. In this conversation, we talk to Tobias about:
-Sweden's development model for developing players.
-Communicating with today's athlete and building trust.
-The importance of competition and small area games.
-What sets the truly elite talents apart from their peers.
-Coaching the individual within a team structure.
-Much, much more!!!
Thank you to all of our listeners for your continued support for our podcast. Can't believe we're on episode Gretzky (99)! Thank you to our title sponsor, GelStx as well for your continued support for what we do.
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we go across the pond and speak to a Finland National Team Coach, Tommi Niemelä. This was such an amazing conversation speaking about Finland's philosophy on hockey development, and think it will be one of the most influential episodes that we've done. It's amazing what Finland has done in the number of NHL players it has developed...and also what they have done in International Play in winning some of the top world tournaments...with so much fewer numbers of players than their competition. In this episode, we talk:
-Sport Specialization
-An incredible view of coach education
-Servant leadership vs. Authoritative leadership
-Development of intrinsic motivation
-Winning vs. Developing players
-Playing with "rhythms" during a game
-So.So.Much.More
We are so excited to bring this episode to you and feel like you will learn A TON. Thank you to all our listeners for supporting our mission to educate and inspire the hockey world! And thank you to our title sponsor, GelStx, for supporting our mission as well!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on current Harvard University Assistant Coach, James Marcou. James was an unreal player, who broke the career assists record for UMASS Amherst. After his junior year there, he signed with the San Jose Sharks before concussions unfortunately ended his career after his first season. He is a rising star in the coaching ranks and is currently in his first year at Harvard. In this conversation, we cover:
-Playing for another crazy Russian coach growing up and the impact that had.
-What it takes to make it as a smaller player.
-What it means to "make players around you better."
-The importance of honesty in recruiting.
-Battling concussions as a hockey player.
-The Cornell/Harvard rivalry.
James is a great guy and a great coach, we know you'll enjoy this one! And as always, thank you to our title sponsor, GelStx...and thank you to all of our loyal fans for tuning in!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we take you out to Western Canada and speak to former college star and 9+ year professional player, Brandon Wong. Brandon grew up in beautiful Victoria, BC and played his college hockey at Quinnipiac University where he was a Hobey Baker candidate (he scored A LOT of points). After his career there he played almost a decade of pro hockey before returning to Western Canada to become a dedicated hockey skills coach. We talk a lot of great topics including:
-The benefits of playing junior hockey
-What differentiates the kids that "make it"
-How much coaching to do on the bench during the game
-Much more!
Thank you to GELSTX, our title sponsor for supporting our show! And thank you to all of our listeners for keeping us going on this fun hockey podcast journey!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we have what might have been the deepest conversation yet with acclaimed author and former college/professional hockey player, Ken Baker. Ken played college hockey at Colgate before figuring out that he had a debilitating physical disease that attacked his hormone levels. But after recognizing what was wrong...he put everything on hold (he was a celebrity reporter in Los Angeles and tells a few cool stories about that) to pursue his dream of being a professional hockey player! It's a really inspiring story, and we talk about:
-Falling in love with hockey because of the Miracle on Ice in 1980.
-The trap of the comparison culture.
-The importance of having BIG dreams and goals.
-The difference of being a dad to a girl and boy hockey player.
-Celebrity culture and how it relates to hockey.
This episode is brought to you by our title sponsor, GelStx! Head on over to gelstx.com, use the discount code "THINKTANK" and get a discount on the best training stick out there!
Thank you to all of our hockey player, parent, and coach supporters...we couldn't do this without you!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on the person you've all been waiting for...
Topher's crazy Russian youth hockey coach, Stan Stopkin. This was an INCREDIBLE episode full of youth hockey gold...from a coaching, player, and parent perspectives. We talk about:
-Coaching development in Russia (insane!)
-Stan's first impressions of North American Hockey.
-How to teach competitiveness and puck support (what we think are two of the most important attributes of a good hockey player).
-Pushing kids outside their comfort zones and interesting ways to do it.
-Reminiscing back on a year we won a youth hockey National Championship. And es, we talked about when we beat Jeff's St. Louis team where we played the entire game without a goalie too...
This was an unforgettable episode that we are so excited to share with you. Thank you to all of our listeners for supporting our podcast, and thank you to GelStx for being our title sponsor!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on current goaltender for the Tuscon Roadrunners (AHL affiliate of the Arizona Coyotes), Tyler Parks. Get ready to be inspired...because this guy's story is UNREAL. His resume includes being cut from AAA, his HS team as a junior in high school, junior teams...spent a year playing Division 3 hockey, cut in the ECHL and SPHL...but he absolutely persevered and now has earned his first callup to the AHL!!!!!!! Parsky's story is incredible and should be a must listen for any kid out there looking to follow their dreams! Thank you to Parksy for being so open with this conversation, we think it is going to change lives. Thank you also to all of our listeners for supporting our podcast, we couldn't do it without you. And thank you to our title sponsor, GELSTX...the best shooting training aid in the business!!!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher talk a little hockey! With the overwhelming positive feedback we got from the episode where we broke down the Power Play and Penalty Kill...we wanted to take another opportunity to talk about another concept in hockey that people are starving for information, THE FORECHECK. We go through different habits and reads, different structures and concepts, and how the forecheck vs. the breakout is one of the more fascinating chess matches in hockey. We hope you enjoy, thanks for tuning in and for supporting our podcast!! And thank you as always to our title sponsor, GelStx sports!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we continue with our Minnesota week and bring on Bloomington HS coach and New Programs Director for Minnesota Hockey (arm of USA Hockey) Mike Terwilliger. This was another great conversation into the depths of the state that produces the most players. We get into:
-Playing on the ponds and building creativity
-Playing for Pierre McGuire
-Coaching and Teaching parallels
-Community based models
So much great information from Mike in this episode, thank you to everyone who tunes in! Thank you also to our title sponsor, GelStx.com...use the coupon code "THINKTANK" at checkout to get a discount on unreal weighted training sticks!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we kick off a two-episode week dedicated to Minnesota Hockey and bring on the Head Coach of Warroad High School, a powerhouse in the state. Jay grew up in Warroad, played at the University of Minnesota-Duluth, and went on to a long pro career in the minor leagues before coming back home and becoming the head high school coach. Warroad is a town of close to 1800 people but has produced 5 NHL players, 7 Olympians, 80+ Division One players, and more. In this episode, we cover...
-What makes the city of Warroad so special.
-Playing for 2x defending National Champion Scott Sandelin at Minnesota-Duluth.
-How big of an influence TJ Oshie, Brock Nelson, GiGi Marvin, and other great players have been on the kids in the town.
-Much more!!
Thank you to all of you that have tuned in, we love bringing you these conversations with awesome hockey people! And thank you to our Title Sponsor, GELSTX Sports!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on the Head Coach of the AHL's Binghamton Devils and one of the best people in the game of hockey, Mark Dennehy. Mark is widely known as one of the most respected coaches in the game. He spent 13 years as the Head Coach at Merrimack before now taking the Head Coaching job in Binghamton. On this episode we talk about:
-Growing up outside of Boston in the Bobby Orr days
-Hockey serving as a vehicle to teach life lessons
-The importance of playing meaningful games in youth hockey
-The difference between coaching in college and the pros
-What private rinks can do in the summer to keep the lights on but not have the kids be on the ice all year.
This was an awesome conversation! Thank you to all of the listeners for tuning in and thank you to our title sponsor, GelStx for your support of the podcast.
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on the Director of Hockey Operations for the company 200x85, Justin Lewandowski. Many of you have probably been to one of their events or tournaments like the CCM Invite which brings in teams from all over the world to compete. We talk to Lewy about all things in youth and high level hockey, including:
-Is toughness gone from the game today?
-How are we teaching kids to handle adversity?
-What to look for in a successful coach/educator?
-How do you run a business in youth sports the right way?
-Much, much more!
This was an awesome conversation with one of the best hockey guys in the game who is running one of the biggest youth hockey businesses around. Tune it today, and thank you as always to our title sponsor GELSTX!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on social media sensation Kane Van Gate (his real name is Keith Van Gels...) With over 30,000 subscribers on Youtube and over 40,000 followers on Instagram, Kane has made a name for himself as a hilarious Beer League goalie. His passion for the game is incredible and we have a great conversation about how his character started and how he's been able to grow the game. He has a new movie coming out shortly, "Hockey Journey," documenting a trip around the US and Canada showing the love of the game.
Thank you to all of our listeners and thank you to our title sponsor, GelStx. We wouldn't be where we are without all of you!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring back USA Hockey ADM Manager Bob Mancini. Bob comes back on the podcast to talk about all things USA Hockey...and he surely didn't disappoint. Some of the topics include how to build a youth organizational culture, what makes other countries development models so good, and a passionate back and forth about what happened to the US at the World Juniors this year along with some insight into the decision making at the higher levels of USA Hockey. This is one you don't want to miss...and Topher reveals a HUGE announcement that is going to continue to put the Hockey Think Tank on the map! Thank you so much to GelStx our title sponsor, and thank you to all of our listeners and supporters who continue to make this an incredible ride for us!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on OUR DADS!! Hockey Dads are so critical to any player's career and enjoyment of the game and it was great to speak to our dads and reminisce about our journeys. We go through the ups, the downs, the lessons, and everything in between. They also provide some invaluable advice for any parent looking to guide their kid through the youth hockey process (mostly slow down and have fun with it!). We had a great time telling some fun and hilarious stories about how our dads shaped our own careers, and we certainly wouldn't be here without them. As always, thank you to all of our listeners who continue to go above and beyond in supporting our podcast and helping us grow. And thank you to GelStx our title sponsor...home of the best training hockey stick in the game!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we have our latest installment of our mailbag where we got questions from our listeners via social media...and our listeners didn't disappoint. Some of the topics we discussed include:
-Ways to grow the game of hockey.
-Coaching kids with ADHD or other behavior/developmental disabilities.
-How to teach kids to not take shifts off.
-How to develop a scoring mentality.
-Evaluating your kid's coach.
-Some of our best (and worst) hockey memories.
And much, much more. We also had a guest host for the podcast in Topher's dad, Bobby Scott. For our last episode of 2019, we want to thank everyone who has supported this podcast! And we'd like to thank our title sponsor GelStx as well. Go to gelstx.com and use coupon "THINKTANK" to get a discount on the top training stick in the game. Happy 2020!!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on media personality on everything St. Louis Blues...Andy Strickland. Andy covered one of the most amazing playoff runs and turnarounds we've ever seen last year, and he shares some great insight into an incredible season. Andy also tells us some great stories about being a youth hockey coach, what he learned from covering Jon Cooper when he was just a junior coach, and we discuss why we hate "NO BALL HOCKEY" signs in the rinks. Thank you to GelStx our title sponsor...if you'd like one of their training sticks go to gelstx.com and use the coupon code "THINKTANK" for a discount. And as always, thank you to all of our listeners for supporting our mission to make the hockey world a better place!!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on our Uncle Tim...Tim Scott. Uncle Tim has a lot of different opinions on hockey development and we're excited to have him on to debate them. Cross ice vs. Full ice...Structure vs. Letting them play, we have a great back and forth while also talking about our experiences in the game. Uncle Tim has been coaching hockey at the youngest levels for over 20 years and has a lot of opinions on the game...and isn't afraid to share them! On this podcast, we bring you inside the Scott Family holiday party hockey conversations! As always, thank you to our title sponsor GelStx. If you'd like to purchase the top training stick in the game...go to gelstx.com and use the promo code "THINKTANK" to receive a discount on your order. Thank you to everyone tuning in as well, we appreciate your support for our podcast!!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on former tough guy for the St. Louis Blues, Reed Low. Here is his roster of players that he went toe-to-toe with in his career:
Probert. Domi. Larocque. McCarty. Brashear. Fedoruk. Stock. Manson. Worrell. Godard. Parker. Downey. Dingman...that's a pretty heavy list and it's only the half of it.
We have a great discussion on Reed's role as an enforcer, protector, glue guy, and how that role played such a big part in his teams' successes. We also talk about the role of fighting in the game today. It's a spirited discussion to say the least, and brings incredible perspective into a topic so hotly debated in the hockey world.
Reed is an unreal guy, and you're sure to laugh a lot, think a lot, and reflect a lot during this episode. As always, thank you to everyone for tuning in, and thank you to our title sponsor GelStx for your support as well. If you're looking for a great training aid to help your shot, go to gelstx.com and enter the promo code "THINKTANK" for a discount on your next stick.
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher do things a little bit differently and go IN DEPTH on the power play and penalty kill. It's an awesome conversation that dissects what makes each successful, what makes players on each successful, and the different habits and skills that are important in each game situation. Thank you to everyone that tunes in, and we hope you enjoy this talk on special teams! And as always, thank you to our title sponsor, GelStx. Go to gelstx.com and use the promo code "THINKTANK" for a discount on your next order!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on Jon Lounsbury...one of the harder working guys we know in hockey. He is a skills coach in the Boston area along with being a Volunteer Assistant Coach at Division One Holy Cross and a Partner with our title sponsor, GelStx Sports. This was an awesome conversation where we get into a lot of great hockey topics. Here's a sneak peek:
24:05 – Power of community.
28:35 – What’s wrong with youth hockey in Boston?
44:00 – Switching positions at the college level.
48:00 – Is Tier 3 junior hockey a money grab?
56:15 – Benefits of playing an extra year of junior hockey.
1:01:50 – Thinking about the game differently through analogies
1:10:15 – How GelStx formed and how it can transform your shot.
As always, we want to thank all of you for tuning in to the podcast...if you think it will help someone else in the hockey world please share and help to spread the positivity. If you also would like to purchase a training stick from GelStx, visit GelStx.com and put in the promo code "thinktank" for a discount!
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on certified nutritionist and owner of nutritional company, Kelly’s Choice…Kelly Springer. This was an unreal conversation on the power of nutrition, not just for your health but for performance too. We cover…
14:35 – The overall power of nutrition
19:30 – Knowing where are food comes from and knowing how to read labels
30:35 – Food testing
34:00 – Advice for families on the go that may not have time to cook big, healthy meals
38:00 – How to make smoothies
41:00 – A great discussion on sugar
43:15 – When you eat for athlete performance
46:50 – Are probiotics beneficial?
50:55 – How to buy and do research on supplements
53:10 – How important is hydration?
56:35 – Is Gatorade good or bad for us?
1:04:25 – What should athletes be eating before and after performance?
1:09:50 – What’s the deal with plant based diets?
Thank you again to all our listeners, and if you can, please leave us some feedback in a rating or review wherever you get your podcasts! We also want to thank the sponsor for our podcast, GelStx…go to gelstx.com and get the top training stick on the market right now with a discount if you use the promo code “thinktank”.
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on women's professional hockey player Alyssa Gagliardi. Alyssa has literally won a championship at every level she's played...including a National Championship at Shattuck St. Mary's, 4 Nations Cup with USA Hockey, 3 ECAC Championships with Cornell, a CWHL Championship with the Boston Blades, an NWHL Championship with the Boston Pride...and now she is giving back as well to the hockey community in her hometown of Raleigh NC with her AG2 Hockey Camps. She currently is on the "Dream Gap" tour with other high level women's players promoting the game. We had some great topics on this podcast episode, including:
25:10 - Playing Girls vs. Boys hockey growing up.
30:20 - Playing at National Powerhouse Shattuck St. Mary’s (she had a class with Nathan MacKinnon.
37:35 - The recruiting process to college hockey for girls hockey players.
42:05 - The incredible culture turnaround at Cornell.
45:05 The importance of experience in hockey (we discussed what's going on in San Jose & Toronto).
53:00 - Playing professional womens hockey.
55:25 - The inspiration of Denna Laing.
58:20 - The state of Pro Hockey for women today.
1:03:15 - Sexism in hockey, at multiple levels.
We want to thank all of the listeners of this podcast, and we want to thank GelStx, the official sponsor of the Hockey Think Tank podcast. Go to gelstx.com and enter the promo code "thinktank" to get a reduced price on their training sticks.
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast we bring on one of the top young players in the NHL, Alex Tuch. Al has had a great young career that spanned the USA NTDP, 2 years at Boston College, a first round draft pick of the Minnesota Wild, and now playing a pivotal role for the Vegas Golden Knights. This was an incredible conversation into the mind of an elite hockey player, and here were a few of the highlights:
25:10 - Growing up playing against older competition in NY.
33:10 - The ups and downs of playing for the National Team Development Program
37:45 - Playing on a line with Jack Eichel
47:40 - His time playing at Boston College and choosing BC over Cornell!
58:00 - A few great Auston Matthews stories and his experience at Darryl Belfry's 88 summit over the summer.
1:07:10 - The magical run for Vegas to the Stanley Cup finals as an expansion team.
This podcast is sponsored by GELSTX...which is not the official training aid of The Hockey Think Tank podcast! Go to gelstx.com and enter the coupon code "thinktank" to receive a discount on training sticks used by top programs including the Tuchy's
NTDP! We really enjoyed this conversation and are confident that you will too. Thank you for tuning into the podcast, we appreciate it!
*Opening music: Forget the Whale - Take to the Skies (Instrumental)
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on VP of Development for the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), Joe Birch. This was an awesome, really informative conversation on a wide range of topics, including:
12:36 - Importance of SLOWING DOWN the youth hockey process
14:30 - Parents, coaches, or entrepreneurs...who's driving youth hockey crazy?
20:50 - How do parents get educated about the process?
26:45 - The foundation of teaching in hockey
30:40 - Birchy's roles and responsibilities with the OHL
35:55 - OHL education packages
49:55 - Advice for parents and players in their minor midget draft years for the OHL and USHL
57:00 - Advice for parents and players for what to do after their draft years
*Opening music: Forget the Whale - Take to the Skies (Instrumental)
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on Assistant Coach of American International College, Steve Wiedler. Steve comes on to talk about their storybook season last year, going from NCAA basement to winning not only their league regular season and playoff titles, but also upending #1 team in the country St. Cloud in the NCAA Tournament. Here are some the highlights:
30:35 - The process to becoming an NCAA Coach
37:40 - Growing up training with Russian coaches and how they got the best out of us
44:15 - Playing in Knoxville in the SPHL
51:30 - How AIC changed the culture (they coached to the culture) and became a champion
1:02:00 - Recruiting mentally tough players
*Opening music: Forget the Whale - Take to the Skies (Instrumental)
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on multiple time Stanley Cup Champion, Colin Fraser. Colin won Cups with both Chicago and LA as a defensive forward who was awesome on the PK and one of the best guy in the business in the room. Here are a few of the highlights from the conversation:
25:45 - What it was like playing for both Brent and Darryl Sutter
38:00 - Winning a World Junior Gold Medal for Team Canada
44:35 - Winning Stanley Cups with two teams (Chicago and LA) with differing styles of play
50:15 - The camaraderie of the Blackhawks team that won in 2010 (and how crazy the celebration was afterwards)
58:15 - Colin explains his "Make em Pay" growl...
1:04:55 - A great conversation about habits on the penalty kill
1:11:20 - Colin discusses a new venture he's working with, scoolu.com.
Colin is known as an unbelievable teammate and that shines through in the episode. You don't win 3 Stanley Cup without it!! Thank you to everyone that has tuned in, if you like the conversations please shoot us a rating and review on your podcast app and share with those in the hockey world you think would take something out of it. Have a great week!
*Opening music: Forget the Whale - Take to the Skies (Instrumental)
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on Head Coach at St. Lawrence University, Brent Brekke. It was a great conversation about hockey, and with Topher having played for and coached with Brekks we all got to get real in depth on certain aspects about the game, coaching, and leadership in general. Here were some of the highlights:
5:10 - The give and take between coaches and refs during games.
27:35 - In depth dialogue on self and player accountability within a team.
39:45 - How Brekks has evolved in his 20 years of coaching and how much information to give players today.
56:00 - Remote control parents and how a parent can affect their kid's recruiting prospects for NCAA Hockey.
1:05:49 - Brekks' three main priorities for setting the culture while taking over the Head Coaching job at St. Lawrence.
1:08:02 - A great discussion on the integrity of the NCAA recruiting landscape today.
Thank you to everyone that has tuned in! If you like the podcast and think it will provide value for other people in your hockey network, please share us with your peeps through social media, email, or however you want! We so enjoy providing this show to the hockey world and want to reach and help as many people as we can. We appreciate your support...and if you can please leave us a rating or review so we can make the podcast even better. Have a great week!
*Opening music: Forget the Whale - Take to the Skies (Instrumental)
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on a leader in the video editing software industry, Brant Berglund. Brant started his career as a video coach with Boston University, before landing a job in the same role with the Boston Bruins for a long time. He now works for a company XoS, which is a video editing software that most high level teams in professional, college, and even junior hockey use. We had a great conversation about technology in hockey and how to use it as a benefit to not only the highest levels, but the youth levels as well. Brant is also a great youth coach in the Boston area and has spoken at USA Hockey coaching clinics...and we had a great discussion about the relevance of "positionless" hockey. It was a really informative conversation with a really knowledgeable person in the hockey industry, and thank you for everyone that tunes in!
*Opening music: Forget the Whale - Take to the Skies (Instrumental)
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on former D3 Head Coach and now motivational speaker, Mark Wick. This episode is dedicated to speaking about mental health today...and it is a POWERFUL one. Mark has an incredible story with a lot of ups and downs, and he is incredibly vulnerable and inspiring in sharing some of the tougher events he's had in his life. September is also National Suicide Prevention month. With the rise in youth suicides and mental health issues, we talk about a lot of different topics that will shed light into a topic that is very rarely talked about. Thank you to everyone that tunes in!
*Opening music: Forget the Whale - Take to the Skies (Instrumental)
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on one of the best American Born players to ever play the game in Brian Gionta. Brian has won an NCAA National Championship, a Stanley Cup, had a 16 year NHL career playing of 1,000 games and scoring close to 600 points. And he did it while standing as one of the smallest players in the game. He was also a seven year captain for both the Montreal Canadiens and Buffalo Sabres. This was an awesome conversation about development, the importance of preparation, leadership...and we dive into some youth hockey as Brian is not coaching his two sons in retirement. Awesome guy, and thank you to everyone who is tuning in!
*Opening music: Forget the Whale - Take to the Skies (Instrumental)
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on the captain of the Team USA Sled Hockey team and 3x Gold Medal Olympic champion...Josh Pauls. Josh is one of the most inspirational speakers we have met. His journey as a double amputee to Gold Medal champion is amazing, and the lessons and stories he brought to this podcast were unreal. We talked about team culture, battling adversity, perspective, and all of the values that he thinks leads to success on and off the ice. Josh is now a motivational speaker and a published author...and an awesome podcast guest. Thank you for tuning in...if you want to provide us some feedback please shoot us a rating or review where you get your podcasts today!
*Opening music: Forget the Whale - Take to the Skies (Instrumental)
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on long time professional player of over 500 games...Derek Whitmore. We go through Derek's journey that had a lot of stops and talked some great hockey throughout the way. Derek was a pure goal scorer, and we had an amazing conversation into the mindset of what it takes to score. We also dove deep into the importance of communication, as Derek is now a coach with Division 3 Bowdoin College for their women's team. We get a great cameo from Derek's four year old daughter, and tell some fun personal stories about our families. Thank you again for tuning in to our podcast!!
*Opening music: Forget the Whale - Take to the Skies (Instrumental)
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on a younger point of view with incoming University of Nebraska-Omaha freshman, Josh Boyer. We have been fortunate to talk to people that are NHL Hall of Famers, but this is the first time on our show that we've brought a kid on to talk hockey from their point of view. And what a perspective Josh Gave us! We talked about the youth hockey journey, the stresses that go with trying to make it in junior hockey and get to college, the ups and downs that many kids face during their seasons...and so much more. Josh is an absolute stud of a kid and we learned a ton being able to speak with him. We think you're going to love this conversation and what Josh has to say...and thank you for tuning in to another one of our podcasts episodes!!
*Opening music: Forget the Whale - Take to the Skies (Instrumental)
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on Stanley Cup champion from the St. Louis Blues Chris Butler. What an amazing conversation covering some important learning curves during his journey to some hilarious stories that spanned his long career. We talked mentorship, resiliency, and his battle to become an NHLer from a non-traditional market to playing over 400 games in the show. We talked about the line brawl between Vancouver and Calgary (that he was in) where John Tortorella tried to charge through to the Flames' locker room. We talk about the improbable run to the Stanley Cup by the Blues this year and why he thought the team turned around (HINT: Binnington and Berube). There are so many great topics for all people involved in the game, and we're thrilled to bring this to you. Thank you again for tuning in!
*Opening music: Forget the Whale - Take to the Skies (Instrumental)
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we take it all the way down to the grassroots level and bring on Jeff and Topher's cousin and mite/squirt youth hockey coach, Cody Barra. Cody is a passionate young coach looking to make a difference in the youth hockey world and brought on a lot of great insight and opinions on the youth hockey culture today. We talked about parent/coach communication, the importance of feedback, the difference in how the game is played from the younger and older levels, and much, much more. We also talked a lot about the development of passion and life skills...the most important job for any youth coach or teacher today. This was a fun one, thanks for tuning in!!
*Opening music: Forget the Whale - Take to the Skies (Instrumental)
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we talk to Hall of Famer and all-around great guy Martin St. Louis. It was a thrill to talk to him about his journey and then we got into some unreal hockey talk. We spoke about battling setbacks and adversity, his Cup team in Tampa Bay, and his massive tree-trunk legs. We also got into talking shop...how to create time and space, the difference between playing fast and rushing it, teaching hockey IQ, and much more. Such an amazing conversation, thanks again for tuning in!!
*Opening music: Forget the Whale - Take to the Skies (Instrumental)
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast we bring on one of the top strength and conditioning coaches in the game, Brian Galivan. Brian runs GVN Performance in Chicago where he trains players from the NHL to youth levels. He just got named the Head Strength Coach for the USA NTDP as well. He worked his way up from the bottom through hard word and a positive attitude, which radiated throughout our entire conversation. We talk leadership in hockey, recognizing the importance of individual differences in a team environment, old school vs. new school off ice training, and much more! What a genuine guy and an unreal conversation. Thanks for tuning in!!
*Opening music: Forget the Whale - Take to the Skies (Instrumental)
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on someone with one of the best resumes in hockey we've ever seen...Matt Herr. Matt is a 2x national champion at the University of Michigan where he also played baseball as well. He then went on to have a very successful pro career including playing in the NHL and being an AHL Allstar. After his playing days, he's gone on to coach prep school, be an ADM Manager for USA Hockey, was executive director for the Pittsburgh Pens elite program, and now he is the Senior Director for Youth Hockey and Growth for the NHL. It was an awesome conversation spanning his hockey journey, to his job now where he travels around growing the game from the grassroots levels. Such amazing perspective on the game, we learned a ton from this episode. Thank you again to everyone that is tuning in!
*Opening music: Forget the Whale - Take to the Skies (Instrumental)
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It's been a while since we took some listener questions from social media...so here we go with our latest mailbag episode! Thank you to everyone who sent us their questions, we had a lot of really good things to talk about. We discussed some great topics, including what we would do if we started a youth hockey organization...what to do with the zillion emails you get for camps and tryouts in the summer...underrated skills we should be teaching...and even our favorite wedding songs! It was a blast answering your questions, we love hearing your feedback. Thank you again for tuning in to our podcast!!!
*Opening music: Forget the Whale - Take to the Skies (Instrumental)
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we chat with Head Coach of the Reading Royals of the ECHL, Kirk MacDonald. His hockey journey is incredible and has come with a few really big ups and downs. In 2005, as captain of RPI, he was diagnosed with testicular cancer and missed an entire season. He beat it, came back better than ever, and went on to signing an NHL contract and played 6 years pro. We talk about his battle...and then get into some great hockey talk including the importance of building willpower, what he's learned going from player to coach, and much more! Thanks for tuning in!
*Opening music: Forget the Whale - Take to the Skies (Instrumental)
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on Vinny Smith, who helps run one of the most successful midget programs in the US in the North Jersey Avalanche. Under Vinny and his team's watch, North Jersey has moved an incredible amount of kids to the junior and college ranks through their emphasis on player development. In this episode, we talk about many topics relating to high level youth hockey including Exposure vs. Development, Coaching the Individual AND the team, the college commitment process, and even the new emphasis on USA Hockey's "no banging on the boards" rule. It was a great conversation with a lot of insight...thank you for tuning in!!
*Opening music: Forget the Whale - Take to the Skies (Instrumental)
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we welcome on Nick Petrecki a former first round draft pick of the San Jose Sharks. With the NHL draft coming last weekend, we talk about the exciting lead up to the draft, the pressures of being a first rounder, and the difficult journey of becoming an NHL player. We go through Nick's journey from junior, to winning a national championship at Boston College, to signing early and struggling to find his way to being an NHL player. We also talk about the importance of mental health and the difficulties of transitioning outside of hockey. It was a great conversation with a great guy, thank you again for tuning in to the podcast!!
*Opening music: Forget the Whale - Take to the Skies (Instrumental)
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on current NHL player Connor Carrick! Connor grew up in Chicago and then played his junior days at the US National Development Program. We talk about the ups and downs of playing there, and then we go into Connor's choice to play in the OHL, where he played for AHL Calder Cup winning coach Mike Vellucci, and what it was like to play for him. Connor was extremely open and candid about the game we love and where he sees it right now, the all-so-important coach athlete relationship, and ways to better yourself on and off the ice...especially as a defenseman. Connor is a great ambassador for our game, and this was an incredibly insightful conversation! Thanks again to everyone for tuning in!
*Opening music: Forget the Whale - Take to the Skies (Instrumental)
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on Travis Turnbull...on of Jeff's best friends and currently playing his 10th year professionally in Europe. We go through Travis' amazing hockey journey...from growing up in St. Louis to the University of Michigan where he tells us why that program is so great and throws in a few hilarious Red Berenson stories. Travis tells us about his time playing pro in the USA, including his brief stint with the Buffalo Sabres where he scored his first goal at Madison Square Garden on Henrik Lundqvist. We go through the ups and downs of playing pro, getting called up and sent down, and Travis talks about the grind of trying to make it in the game we all love. This was an insightful and hilarious conversation with a true workhorse and amazing teammate (and shower guy). A great listen for everyone out there that loves the game. Thank you again to everyone that tunes in!!
*Opening music: Forget the Whale - Take to the Skies (Instrumental)
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we chat with Duncan Fletcher who is the founder of a company called Game Change. Duncan and his team put in a lot of time researching athlete development from the youth all the way to professional levels. One of their current projects deals with "behavioral analytics" which we think is one of the waves of the future in sports. Duncan lets us know that one of the best things to do for an athlete is have other interests, even for the pros at the highest levels. Game Change also works closely with the NHL and NHLPA on the player transition to the real world. We talk a lot about this transition and how difficult it can be. This was an awesome conversation with one of the most knowledgable guests we've had on...we think you're going to really enjoy it! Thank you again for tuning in!!
*Opening music: Forget the Whale - Take to the Skies (Instrumental)
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast we have a great conversation with Head Coach of the USA National Development Team Program, Seth Appert. Seth grew up in Minnesota, played hockey at Ferris State, and then has gone on to be a great coach in the college ranks. He made a name for himself as an assistant coach at Denver University where he won two national championships. After Denver, he became Head Coach at RPI for a decade before taking his current role with the NTDP. We talk a lot of great hockey including what it's like coaching at the NTDP, how to build relationships with players, building a team of coaches, and the joys of coaching a kid like Jack Hughes who will be the number one pick in this year's draft. Thanks again for tuning into the podcast!!
*Opening music: Forget the Whale - Take to the Skies (Instrumental)
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on Head Coach of the Tri City Storm of the USHL, Anthony Noreen. Anthony is one of the top young coaches in the game, having won the USHL Coach of the Year award while coaching in Youngstown a few years ago and this year he won the Anderson Cup in Tri City. We talk about the importance of following your moral compass, having a great mentor, how to coach and get the most out of your best players, and the difficulties/rewards/balance of coaching to develop vs. coaching to win. This was an awesome conversation with one of the great people in the game...and thank you for tuning in!!
*Opening music: Forget the Whale - Take to the Skies (Instrumental)
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on NHL Superstar and one of our good friends Paul Stastny. Paul grew up playing hockey in St. Louis where he and Jeff became best friends. The two then went on to play for Omaha in the USHL where Paul was one of the top players in the league. He then went to Denver University, won a National Championship, and then began an NHL career that has spanned 13 seasons and 4 teams. He also is a two-time Olympian and silver medalist. In our conversation, we talk about growing up with an NHL Hall of Fame dad, the importance of playing multiple sports growing up, how NHL coaching and playing has changed over his career, and much more. We also talk intimately about the legendary gold medal game against Canada in Vancouver. Such a great talk with such a great joy, thank you for tuning in!!
*Opening music: Forget the Whale - Take to the Skies (Instrumental)
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on Wacey Rabbit who is one of Jeff's favorite teammates of all time. Wacey grew up on a reserve in Alberta and is very involved and proud of his First Nation, Native American culture. Wacey was the first in his culture to get drafted into the NHL...and tells a great story about it. He played 5 years in the WHL where he won a Memorial Cup championship with the Vancouver Giants and he also won the leagues Humanitarian award as well. He has played pro hockey now for 13 years and had some great stories along the way...including being the team "Scare Guy" at hotels. We talk a lot of great hockey too, including the importance of faceoffs, finding your role on a team, and the importance of a "glue guy" in the locker room. Great conversation with a great guy...thanks for tuning in!!
*Opening music: Forget the Whale - Take to the Skies (Instrumental)
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we chat with your two favorite guests Adam Nicholas and Brandon Naurato. Passion development has been a topic we have been talking about for a while, and we wanted to get right into where our obsession with hockey and helping others comes from. We talk a lot about our wanting to prove people wrong, the importance of failing forward and learning how to be resilient, and some of our personal stories that has given us scars that has allowed us to have that mentality. We got pretty deep and we think you'll enjoy this one for sure...and as always thank you for tuning in to our podcast!!
*Opening music: Forget the Whale - Take to the Skies (Instrumental)
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On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast we bring on NHL certified agent, Al Roy of the Roy Sports Group. Al has been in the business over 20 years now and talks about how his profession and responsibilities has changed in that time. It was a great conversation that got into some great topics including how players and teams deal with mental health in the NHL, how and why the recruitment of kids has gotten so young, and what he does as an agent to prepare his clients for the real world. He also shares a few great stories about a few of his big time clients, including what it was like being with Nico Hischier the day he was drafted Number 1 overall in the NHL Draft. We're happy to bring you some great perspective, and thank you again for tuning in to the podcast!!
*Opening music: Forget the Whale - Take to the Skies (Instrumental)
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