
Bulldog Insider
228 episodes — Page 1 of 5
S8 E27: Season finale and Q&A with the insiders
The memorable run for the University of Minnesota Duluth mens hockey team ended this past Sunday with a 4-3 loss to the No. 1 overall seed, Michigan, in an NCAA regional final at MVP Arena in Albany, New York. The Bulldogs (24-15-1) improved their win total by 11 from a year ago to get back to the NCAA Tournament, but they fell one win short of a spot in the NCAA Frozen Four. For the season finale of the Bulldog Insider podcast, Matt Wellens of the News Tribune and Zach Schneider of My9 Sports are joined by KDAL's Bruce Ciskie as the insiders answer your questions, look back at the 2025-2026 and look ahead to next season. As the trio tells us, there are a lot of reasons for optimism in 2026-27. This episode was recorded on Thursday, April 2, 2026. From everyone associated with the Bulldog Insider podcast, thank you for listening this season. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producers Dan Williamson and Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts.
S8 E26: Awards to the max with Max Plante
Minnesota Duluth sophomore forward Max Plante has been hearing 'congratulations' a lot lately, but he isn't always sure what for. Sure, he has been collecting awards and honors left and right the past couple weeks and last week alone, he was named 2026 NCHC Forward of the Year, 2026 NCHC Player of the Year and a top 10 finalist for the Hobey Baker Memorial Award. But, what he and his teammates are seeking is a NCAA championship. The Hermantown native and 2024 second-round draft pick of the Detroit Red Wings joined News Tribune college hockey reporter Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider of My 9 Sports on the Bulldog Insider Podcast this week to discuss those awards, the postseason run that the Bulldogs are on and to answer questions from fans (including his grandma). Max is also asked if he and his brother - and teammate - Zam Plante could play a second sport at UMD like their parents Derek Plante (hockey and baseball) and Kristi (Duncan) Plante (basketball and softball), what would it be; who's the better pickleball player between he and Zam; the possibility of having all three Plante Brothers (Max, Zam and Victor) playing at UMD next season and much more. It is the second time that Max has appeared on the podcast this season. As for this season, while the Bulldogs fell last Saturday in double-overtime in the NCHC championship game at Denver, they're still NCAA Tournament bound. No. 8 UMD (23-14-1) will take on No. 9 Penn State (21-13-2) at 8 p.m. CT on Friday at MVP Arena in Albany, New York, in a NCAA regional semifinal, with the winner advancing to the regional championship at Sunday against either No. 1 Michigan or No. 16 Bentley. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producers Dan Williamson and Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts.
S8 E25: Shattuck, Russia and NCHC playoffs with Daniel Shlaine
At 2 p.m. on Sunday, the University of Minnesota Duluth mens hockey team will hear their name called during the 2026 NCAA tournament selection show on ESPNU for the first time since winning their last Frozen Faceoff title in 2022. The Bulldogs are one of 11 teams who are considered to be a 100% lock for the NCAA tournament based on the 20,000 simulations run by College Hockey News. But before Selection Sunday, the sixth-ranked Bulldogs are hoping for some hardware, specifically - the NCHC Frozen Faceoff Championship as they will take on fourth-ranked Denver at 7:07 p.m. Friday at Magness Arena on the University of Denver campus in the conference final. Joining Bulldog Insider co-host Matt Wellens this week to discuss the NCHC playoffs and NCAA Tournament is freshman forward Daniel Shlaine. The native of Moscow, Russia has five goals and five assists in 34 games this season. Shlaine also discusses his background in hockey, growing up in Russia, his brother Artem who played at Arizona State, playing at Shattuck St. Mary's in Faribault, what brought him to UMD, apartment life with teammates as roommates and much more. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producers Dan Williamson and Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts.
S8 E24: Grayden Siepmann and the Bulldogs are cooking
The second part of a "double dog week" is here for the Bulldog Insider podcast with another episode, this one featuring freshman defenseman Grayden Siepmann of the UMD mens team. The native of Langley, British Columbia, Canada has five goals and seven assists in 33 games this season. Siepmann joins Bulldog Insider co-hosts Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider to discuss his background in hockey, his path to UMD, how he ended up with number 37, his passion for cooking, who is the "MVP" of his living situation with teammates as roommates, and much more. The Bulldogs face North Dakota on the road on Saturday at 6:07 PM in an NCHC semifinal showdown. As Wellens writes, UMD is considered a lock to make the 16-team NCAA Tournament. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producers Dan Williamson and Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts.

S8 E23: Ashley Messier makes an impact
The season is not done for Ashley Messier and the UMD womens hockey team! They earned a sixth-consecutive NCAA tournament berth. Messier, a Graduate Student defenseman from Wilcox, Saskatchewan, Canada, joined the Bulldogs after five years at Cornell. If you're wondering about her last name, she is indeed related to NHL legend Mark Messier, who is a cousin of her father Joby, also a former NHL player. In this episode, Messier joins Bulldog Insider co-host Matt Wellens via Zoom, discussing her background in hockey, why she transferred to UMD, being reunited with Bishop Kearney Selects teammate Mary Kate O'Brien, making the 2026 NCAA Tournament, and much more. The Bulldogs were able to hang on to the last at-large bid to the 11-team tournament last week, finishing No. 10 in the NCAA Percentage Index Ratings — the system used to select and seed the NCAA men's and women's hockey tournaments. The week began with five Cinderellas from outside the top 10 of the NPI still alive in conference tournaments. One by one, they fell throughout the week, improving UMD's chances each day. UMD (20-14-3) now has a chance to bounce back from a disappointing WCHA tournament by playing Yale (25-9) in a "battle of the Bulldogs" at 5 p.m. CDT Thursday at the OSU Ice Rink in Columbus, Ohio, with the winner getting the top seeded Ohio State Buckeyes (34-4) at 5 p.m. Saturday. The winner advances to the 2026 NCAA Women's Frozen Four at Penn State. It's a special double dog week for the Bulldog Insider podcast with another episode scheduled for Friday featuring freshman defenseman Grayden Siepmann of the UMD mens team. They'll face North Dakota on the road on Saturday at 6:07 PM in an NCHC semifinal showdown. As Wellens writes, the Bulldogs are considered a lock to make the 16-team NCAA Tournament. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producers Dan Williamson and Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts.
S8 E22: Bulldog Bracketology with Matt and Zach
The NCHC playoffs begin this week and regardless of the outcome of their quarterfinal series, the UMD mens hockey team appears to have secured a spot in the NCAA Tournament. The UMD womens team fell in their best-of-three WCHA quarterfinal series against Minnesota State. But a spot in the NCAA Tournament may still be possible for the women, but they'll need some help from other squads. This week, the Insiders break down the bracketology of the NCAA mens and womens tournaments. They also answer your submitted questions. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producers Dan Williamson and Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts.
S8 E21: She's the Gopher Killer! Catching up with UMD's Tova Henderson
Minnesota Duluth senior defenseman Tova Henderson scored in overtime in back-to-back games as the Bulldogs swept the University of Minnesota at Ridder Arena in Minneapolis last weekend to wrap up the regular season. In this episode, Henderson, a native of Richmond, British Columbia, Canada, talks about that big series win, her decision to come to UMD, what her career has been like, and much more. The Bulldogs will host Minnesota State in a best-of-three first round WCHA playoff series, with game one scheduled for Friday, Feb. 27, 2026 at 2 p.m. Amsoil Arena. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producers Dan Williamson and Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts.

S8 E20: Senior blueliners Pierce, Bodnarchuk reflect on UMD journeys
They're both defensemen, both in their fourth seasons in Bulldog Country and it has been a memorable ride for both Joey Pierce and Riley Bodnarchuk. Pierce, a Hermantown graduate, didn't have to travel far from home for his college career while Bodnarchuk comes from Okotoks, Alberta, Canada. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producers Dan Williamson and Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts.

S8 Ep 19S8 E19: Derek Plante: Bulldogs Player, Coach, and Now Dad
Derek Plante has worn many hats at UMD. He's played hockey for the Bulldogs, coached the Bulldogs and now when he's not scouting in the NHL, the 1993 Hobey Baker finalist a Bulldog Dad. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts.
S8 Ep 18S8 E18: Red Wings Let Brady Cleveland Make His Own Life Decisions
Bulldogs defenseman and Detroit Red Wings prospect Brady Cleveland is a two-time transfer, who took a long and winding road to finally reach the college team he wanted to play for as a kid. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts.
S8 Ep 17S8 E17: Bechen, Bentz Jumped at Chance to Be Bulldogs
When Minnesota Duluth associate head coach Adam Krause came calling, wingers Blake Bechen and Harper Bentz answered to join their junior hockey teammates on a growing 2024-25 rookie class at UMD. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts.

S8 Ep 16S8 E16: Gajan Let His Play Make His Case for 2026 Olympics
UMD starting goaltender Adam Gajan quietly played his way this season onto Slovakia's 2026 Olympic men's hockey team for the Winter Games in Italy, where he'll be ready for anything come February. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts.
S8 Ep 15S8 E15: Freshmen Anderson, Bibby Made Blind Commitments to UMD
The final two pieces of the Bulldogs' 2025-26 roster, Hunter Anderson and Luke Bibby, didn't come to Duluth, or meet with the UMD coaches face-to-face before committing to the program last spring. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts.
S8 Ep 14S8 E14: Your Questions About Ireland, Second Half Answered
KDAL's Bruce Ciskie, Zach Schneider of My 9 Sports and the News Tribune's Matt Wellens answer your questions about the Bulldogs in Ireland, Saturdays and Max Plante's chances of winning the Hobey. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts.
Bonus Questions w/ O'Brien, Gascon, Parkkonen, Johansson, Villanueva, Kraemer
bonusThis special episode includes the bonus segments recorded during the breaks of episodes 2, 5, 7, 10 and 11 with UMD women's hockey players Mary Kate O'Brien, Eve Gascon, Krista Parkkonen, Thea Johansson, Sophie Villanueva, and Kaitlin Kraemer. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts.
BONUS: What Limits Should NCAA Have on Pro Athletes?
bonusShould athletes who have played in professional leagues be allowed to play in the NCAA? While recording season 8 episode 8 of the Bulldog Insider podcast, Bruce Ciskie, Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider discussed how the NCAA should limit the eligibility of athletes who have played in professional leagues. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts.
S8 Ep 13S8 E13: Max Plante Ready for Final Run with USA at World Juniors
After winning gold in 2025 in Ottawa, Hermantown native and UMD wing Max Plante is after another gold medal at the 2026 World Junior Championship in Minnesota with his longtime USA Hockey teammates. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts.
S8 Ep 12S8 E12: Kleber Previews 2026 World Juniors in Minnesota
Team USA's big man on the blue line, UMD defenseman Adam Kleber, previews the upcoming 2026 World Junior Championship that is coming to Duluth, Minneapolis and St. Paul in December and January. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts.

S8 Ep 11S8 E11: Kraemer Chases Olympic Dreams
The No. 5-ranked Minnesota Duluth women's hockey program has one more WCHA series scheduled this weekend at Bemidji State before it begins a three-week holiday break. But not everyone is getting a break from hockey. Bulldogs sophomore center Caitlin Kraemer will continue her double life as a college hockey player and 2026 Olympic hopeful, suiting up for the Canadian National Women's Team in Games 3 and 4 of the Rivalry Series against the United States on Dec. 10 and 13 in Edmonton. Kraemer and UMD junior goaltender Eve Gascon are both candidates to play for Canada in the upcoming Winter Games in February in Milan and Cortina, Italy. Both were on Team Canada for Games 1 and 2 of the Rivalry Series in the U.S. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts.
Bonus Questions w/ Sandelin, Arnott, Shaugabay, Zam Plante and Hanson
bonusThis special episode includes the bonus segments recorded during the breaks of episodes 3, 4, 6 and 9 with UMD men's hockey head coach Scott Sandelin, and players Callum Arnott, Jayson Shaugabay, Zam Plante and Ty Hanson. The topics: -Scott Sandelin discusses growing up in Hibbing -Arnott and Shaugabay's most unpopular opinions -Zam Plante on what kind of pet he would get -Ty Hanson on favorite road rinks and the old Hermantown rink. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts.
S8 Ep 10S8 E10: First Texan Bulldog - Villanueva's Unlikely Goaltending Origin
Sophia Villanueva is the first Bulldog — men or women — to call Texas home. However, Texas is just one of the plethora of places the Minnesota Duluth freshman goaltender has called home in her young life. Villanueva's father, Mark, was a maintenance test pilot for Apache helicopters in the U.S. Army and his career took the family to Texas, Korea, Colorado Springs and back to Texas. Meanwhile, Villanueva's burgeoning hockey career has taken her to Arizona, Minnesota, Connecticut and back again to Minnesota, where at UMD she is the ever-ready understudy of Bulldogs junior goalie and Canadian Olympic hopeful Eve Gason. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts.
S8 Ep 9S8 E9: Ty Hanson Is Leading From Blue Line
UMD sophomore defenseman Ty Hanson is one of the top scoring defensemen in the NCAA, and an alternate captain of a No. 3-ranked Bulldogs team that's having a blast to start the 2025-26 season. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts.
S8 Ep 8S8 E8: We Answer Your Burning Questions
You had questions — a lot of them — and the "Insiders" who cover the Minnesota Duluth men's and women's hockey teams have answers. Some of them may actually be good answers. The radio voice of Bulldogs hockey, Bruce Ciskie, joined News Tribune college hockey reporter Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider of My 9 Sports on the Bulldog Insider Podcast this week to break down the start of the 2025-26 season for the men and women. The "Bulldog Insiders" resubmitted their ballots for the preseason NCHC poll and they answered questions that were sent in by podcast listeners and viewers on this week's episode. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts.
S8 Ep 7S8 E7: Scandinavian Rivals Become Teammates at UMD
Finland's Krista Parkkonen and Sweden's Thea Johansson transferred to Minnesota Duluth not only to improve themselves as hockey players, but their national team programs ahead of the 2026 Olympics. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts. 0:00 Intro 1:22 Transferring to UMD 11:51 Winter Olympics 2026 24:02 Edmund Fitzgerald: 50 Years Below 26:07 Finland vs Sweden 44:41 Rapid Fire Questions

S8 Ep 6S8 E6: Zam Plante Takes On Hockey, Hunting, His Family
UMD's Zam Plante joins the Bulldog Insider Podcast to talk hockey, hunting and the competitive nature of his family. The Hermantown native also answers the questions submitted by you and his family. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts. 0:00 Intro 1:10 Responding to grievances 15:50 Zam's forward line 18:31 Plante family 22:01 Edmund Fitzgerald: 50 Years Below 24:07 Team nicknames 29:13 Listener submitted questions 37:34 Rapid fire questions
S8 Ep 5S8 E5: Eve Gascon Balances Olympic Dreams and UMD Hockey
UMD junior goaltender Eve Gascon is juggling more than just pucks in the crease this season, backstopping the Bulldogs while trying to make the 2026 Canadian Olympic women's hockey team. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts. 0:00 Intro 1:21 Olympics 2026 Possibilities 19:36 Edmund Fitzgerald: 50 Years Below 21:38 Canadian Goaltending Room 25:01 UMD Goaltending Room 31:07 Rapid Fire Questions

S8 Ep 4S8 E4: Arnott & Shaugabay Strike Lightning
UMD sophomore wingers Callum Arnott and Jayson Shaugabay return to the podcast to break down Tampa Bay Lighting development camp, the Bulldogs' trip to Alaska and this season's living arrangements. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts. 0:00 Intro 0:31 Alaska Trip & Future Travel 8:09 Tampa Bay Lightning NHL Development Camp 15:33 Edmund Fitzgerald: 50 Years Below 17:26 Arnott's Knowledge of High School Hockey 18:26 Roommates & Teammates 25:36 The Strong Bond of the Bulldogs Team 29:39 Listener Submitted Questions
S8 Ep 3S8 E3: Scott Sandelin Reflects on 26-Years - And Why He's Not Done Yet
There has been a wave of retirements by veteran college hockey coaches in recent years. Is Bulldogs coach Scott Sandelin anywhere close to joining in? What still drives him entering Season 26 at UMD? Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts. 0:00 Intro 0:51 Feelings Going Into Season 26 1:39 Scott Sandelin's Thoughts on Retirement 21:30 "Edmund Fitzgerald: 50 Years Below" Promo 23:32 Listener Submitted Questions 44:12 Conclusion

S8 Ep 2S8 E2: TikTok Tips from UMD's Most Viral Captain
Bulldogs captain Mary Kate O'Brien is kind of a big deal on the ice and off it, giving a behind-the-scenes look at the life of a college hockey players on TikTok. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts. 0:00 Intro 2:25 Benefits of a lengthy road trip to start the season? 6:01 Rookie Idol 8:56 Rookie standouts 10:29 Transfers from rival teams 13:12 Which transfer has been the biggest surprise to join the Bulldogs? 16:39 "Edmund Fitzgerald: 50 Years Below" preview 18:50 MK's TikTok Journey 31:49 How to make a good TikTok 38:07 Conclusion

S8 Ep 1S8 E1: Inside the 2025-26 UMD Hockey Season: Preview & Predictions
The Bulldog Insider Podcast is back for Season 8. The 'Insiders' Matt, Zach and Bruce preview the upcoming 2025-26 UMD men's and women's hockey seasons, and answer questions submitted by listeners. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts. 0:00 Intro 3:14 Why will this season be different? 9:16 Potential Impact of 2026 Olympics 18:08 Will a UMD transfer lead in goals again? 22:45 Who will be the MVP on the women's team? 25:07 "Edmund Fitzgerald: 50 Years Below" preview 27:39 Who will make a bigger impact: freshman or transfers? 30:56 Who is the most intriguing freshman? 34:48 Which of the transfers is the most intriguing? 40:25 NCHC Preseason Poll: Where did UMD end up? 51:46 Listener submitted questions 1:05:00 Conclusion & TV Schedule
S7 Ep 24S7 E24: Answering Your Questions About the 2024-25 Season and Beyond
The 'Insiders' answer your questions about the 2024-25 season and the future of the UMD men's and women's hockey programs in Part II of the two-part Season 7 finale of the Bulldog Insider Podcast. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts.
S7 Ep 23S7 E23: Did the Bulldogs Meet Our Expectations in 2024-25?
Duluth's UMD hockey "Insiders" evaluate the 2024-25 Bulldogs men's and women's hockey seasons, and look ahead to 2025-26, in Part I of the two-part Season 7 finale of the Bulldog Insider Podcast. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts.
S7 Ep 22S7 E22: Sadura Was An Early Recruiting Target For UMD
Bulldogs sophomore Grace Sadura shares her journey from Minnetonka to UMD, tells us what it was like as a sophomore going through the coaching change and answers questions submitted by teammates. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts.
S7 Ep 21S7 E21: Carter Loney, Owen Gallatin Relive First Day as Bulldogs
Seniors Carter Loney and Owen Gallatin share memories from their four years at UMD, including what that first day was like back in 2021-22. Who were the teammates they looked up to as freshmen? Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts.
S7 Ep 20S7 E20: Who Said It? with Nina Jobst-Smith and Clara Van Wieren
Fifth year seniors Clara Van Wieren and Nina Jobst-Smith return to Bulldog Insider to look back on their five years as Bulldogs, and figure out who said what crazy thing previously on the podcast. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts.
S7 Ep 19S7 E19: Lawry, Fuhrman Look Back on Careers at UMD
Bulldogs seniors Jenna Lawry and Brenna Fuhrman take a look back at an eventful four years at UMD as they try to make one last run at an NCAA Frozen Four berth and national championship. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts.
S7 Ep 18S7 E18: Klayton Knapp's Patience Pays Off at UMD
Bulldogs freshman goaltender Klayton Knapp only got one start in his first three months of college hockey. Since Christmas, the man known as Knapper, Napkin and Kidnapper has been UMD's go-to-goalie. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts.
S7 Ep 17S7 E17: Hanna Baskin Navigates Future in Pro Hockey
Like every senior in college, UMD defenseman Hanna Baskin has to start thinking about what life after college is going to look like. As a future professional hockey player, it's as uncertain as ever. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts.
S7 Ep 16S7 E16: Recruiting Major Junior with Adam Krause
Associate head coach Adam Krause discusses how the Bulldogs men's hockey team is recruiting major junior leagues in Canada now that the NCAA has lifted the ban on players who were once off limits. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts.
S7 Ep 15S7 E15: Molenaar Just What Young Bulldogs Needed
Former Husky Joe Molenaar is just what UMD was looking for with 11 freshmen on the roster this season. The Bulldogs are exactly what Molenaar was looking for at this point in hockey career and life. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts. 0:00 Intro 0:49 Transferring to a young team 4:28 Leadership role at UMD 7:06 Coach Scott Sandelin vs Brett Larson 10:52 Journey to UMD 15:08 NCAA 5th year rule 19:51 Listener questions 24:25 Quick hits 35:47 Outro
S7 Ep 14S7 E14: Hanson, Kleber Came Prepared to UMD
Minnesota Duluth freshmen defensemen Adam Kleber and Ty Hanson may still be teenagers, but they both know what it's like to live and play hockey away from home. Kleber left Chaska High School following his sophomore year of 2021-22 and moved to Nebraska to play the Lincoln Stars of the United States Hockey League. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts.
S7 Ep 13S7 E13: Holm, Mobley Transfer to UMD for the Culture
Goaltender Tindra Holm and forward Olivia Mobley entered the transfer portal seeking a school that would push them as hockey players. The culture of the Bulldogs women's hockey program won them over. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts. 0:00 Intro 1:23 Tindra Holm's Journey to UMD 9:24 Olivia Mobley's Journey to UMD 23:52 Favorite College Hockey Rinks 26:58 Coaching Transition 31:43 UMD Compared to Other Programs 37:01 Thoughts on the Transfer Portal 45:43 Close
The Best of Season 7's First Half
bonusThis week on the Bulldog Insider Podcast, we're rewinding the tape and reliving our favorite moments from the first half of Season 7 and the 2024-25 season. Some of the top moments from the first half include the banter between roommates Cal Arnott, Jayson Shaugabay and the Plante brothers, Zam and Max. Future police officer Gabby Krause shared the perfect crime and Adam Gajan talked about his World Junior Championship experience prior to coming to UMD. This week's episode also features Caitlin Kraemer, Laura Schuler, Dominic James, Joey Pierce and Aaron Pionk. The Bulldog Insider Podcast is hosted by News Tribune college hockey reporter Matt Wellens and the voice of Bulldogs hockey on My 9 Sports, Zach Schneider. You can find the Bulldog Insider Podcast at DuluthNewsTribune.com/BulldogInsider, and on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. New episodes drop almost every Thursday throughout the UMD men's and women's hockey seasons. 0:00 Intro 0:49 The Plante Brothers 6:47 Cal Arnott & Jason Shaugabay 14:04 Gabby Krause 18:51 Caitlin Kraemer 25:10 Laura Schuler 32:18 Joey Pierce & Aaron Pionk 36:50 Dominic James 42:07 Adam Gajan 46:41 Outro
S7 Ep 12S7 E12: The 'Insiders' Break Down First Half of 2024-25
UMD men's and women's hockey is at the holiday break. One team has struggled to start the 2024-25 season. Another is on track to host an NCAA tournament game. The 'Bulldog Insiders' break it down. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts. 0:00 Intro 0:54 UMD Women's Team: Thumbs Up 5:59 UMD Women's Team: Thumbs Down 13:16 UMD Women's Team: 3 Stars 16:37 UMD Men's Team: Thumbs Down 31:17 UMD Men's Team: Thumbs Up 34:26 UMD Men's Team: 3 Stars 41:51 Closing Thoughts

S7 Ep 11S7 E11: Slovakia's Gajan Proving Doubters Wrong in U.S.
Slovakian goaltender Adam Gajan kept getting overlooked in his home country. That is until he came to the United States to play in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin. A few games in, everything changed. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts. #duluth #duluthnews #bulldoginsider #bulldoginsiderpodcast #podcast #hockeypodcast #hockey #collegehockey #bulldoghockey #umdbulldogs #sports #sportspodcast #adamgajan #slovakia #slovakiahockey #goalie #hockeygoalie

S7 Ep 10S7 E10: Pierce, Pionk Share Impact of Adam Johnson
Like many, former UMD and Hibbing forward Adam Johnson made an impact on the lives of Bulldogs defenseman Joey Pierce and Aaron Pionk, both in life and death. Pierce and Pionk joined the DNT's Matt Wellens on the podcast this week ahead of Adam Johnson Memorial Night at 5 p.m. Saturday at Amsoil Arena when the Bulldogs host Western Michigan in the finale of their NCHC series. They discuss the legacy of Johnson, including neck guard requirements that are in place almost everywhere — the NCAA and NHL being the exception. The two former Hermantown High School Hawks also answer listener/viewer questions, Pierce shares his journey from Ely to Hermantown, and talk about the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts.

S7 Ep 9S7 E9: The Perfect Crime with Gabby Krause
UMD senior forward Gabby Krause was forced to medically retire this fall, giving up her dream of playing hockey to preserve another dream of becoming a K9 officer. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts.
S7 Ep 8S7 E8: Arnott, Shaugabay Take Different Paths to UMD
Roommates Callum Arnott and Jayson Shaugabay, both freshmen forwards for the Bulldogs, share their path from King City and Warroad to UMD, as well as what it's like to live with the Plante brothers. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts. #duluth #duluthnews #bulldoginsider #bulldoginsiderpodcast #podcast #hockeypodcast #hockey #collegehockey #bulldoghockey #umdbulldogs @UMNDuluth @umdathletics #sports #sportspodcast
S7 Ep 7S7 E7: Kraemer Enjoying Life as a Rookie Again
While most people dread starting from the bottom again, Bulldogs freshman center Caitlin Kraemer is relishing the challenge of once again working her way up the NCAA hockey ladder. On the podcast this week, Kraemer spoke with the News Tribune's Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider about her path to UMD and how the Waterloo, Ontario-native became a hockey star, while her sisters thrive in soccer. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts.
S7 Ep 6S7 E6: Thumbs Up, Thumbs Down from Start of 2024-25
Bruce Ciskie of KDAL joins Matt Wellens of the Duluth News Tribune and Zach Schneider of My9 Sports this week to answer listener and viewer questions on this week's edition of the Bulldog Insider Podcast. The "Bulldog Insiders" who cover the Minnesota Duluth men's and women's hockey teams also give their thumbs up and thumbs down for both squads. Bulldog Insider is co-hosted by Matt Wellens and Zach Schneider. Episodes are edited and produced by Duluth News Tribune digital producer Wyatt Buckner. You can find more Bulldog hockey coverage at duluthnewstribune.com and more episodes of Bulldog Insider wherever you listen to podcasts.