Crazy Hockey Dads Podcast

Scott and Jamie sit down with USHL Commissioner Glenn Hefferan for a blunt, parent-first conversation on what actually matters in youth hockey.Glenn explains why kids play better when the pressure is off, why parents need to focus on “love and fun”, and how over-involvement can quietly hurt development. He also breaks down the realities of junior hockey and why the jump from youth to juniors is the hardest step, what the USHL actually demands, and why chasing exposure and spending more doesn’t guarantee anything. In this episode: Why kids performed better without parents in the rink The “love + fun” reminder every parent needs Why youth to junior is the hardest leap in hockey The truth about cost, exposure, and development If your kid isn’t having fun...nothing else matters.Partners:https://www.instagram.com/bigjohndangles/https://hockeytraining.com/https://www.titanbattlegear.com/crazyhockeydadshttps://howieshockeytape.com/https://www.athleticperformanceinsight.com/Socials:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsX: https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551

When the game starts to feel like a job.Scott and Jamie sit down with Pat Shea (IG @pshea25) former University of Maine Black Bear, pro hockey player, and creator behind Hockey House and Full Ride for a raw conversation about identity, pressure, and walking away from the game.Pat opens up about a turning point many players don’t talk about: realizing that what was once fun started to feel like work. He explains how losing passion at the college level, combined with a growing interest in creating, forced him to ask a tough question…was hockey actually his dream, or something he grew up in?He also shares his path through youth hockey, prep school, and Maine including being a late bloomer, dealing with early rejection, and how confidence and obsession (not camps or shortcuts) drove his development.In this episode:When hockey starts feeling like a job and what that does to playersThe question most players never ask: is this actually my dream?Late bloomer reality vs early recruiting pressureHow Pat turned hockey life into one of the most relatable content brands in the gameThis one hits different, especially if your kid loves the game… but the pressure is starting to creep in.Partners:https://www.instagram.com/bigjohndangles/https://hockeytraining.com/https://www.titanbattlegear.com/crazyhockeydadshttps://howieshockeytape.com/https://www.athleticperformanceinsight.com/Socials:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsX: https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551

What really matters in recruiting… and what quietly kills it.Scott and Jamie sit down with Jason Tapp, Dartmouth College's assistant Men's Ice Hockey coach, live from Lake Placid ahead of the ECAC semis, for a candid look at how college recruiting actually works (and what families get wrong).Tapp breaks down the three non-negotiables they look for in players - character, compete, and hockey IQ - and why talent alone isn’t enough to make it at the college level. He also shares a blunt reality: he’s crossed players off recruiting lists because of parent behavior and why that’s an immediate red flag for programs. The conversation goes deeper into youth hockey decisions, why chasing the “best team” is often a mistake, why tier doesn’t really matter at younger ages, and how development is a long runway, not a sprint. Tapp also opens up as a hockey parent himself, admitting he feels the same pressure as everyone else and why he’s shifted to letting his kids drive their own development. In this episode: The 3 traits Dartmouth won’t compromise on in recruiting Why parent behavior can eliminate a player instantly The truth about Tier 1 vs Tier 2 (and when it actually matters) The biggest misconception in youth hockey: “you have to be on the best team” Recorded live from Lake Placid, but the message applies everywhere. it’s not about where you play… it’s about how you develop.Partners:https://www.instagram.com/bigjohndangles/https://hockeytraining.com/https://www.titanbattlegear.com/crazyhockeydadshttps://howieshockeytape.com/https://www.athleticperformanceinsight.com/Socials:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsX: https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551

Scott and Jamie are on location in Lake Placid ahead of the ECAC Finals, soaking in the atmosphere and breaking down what makes this moment different for players, parents, and everyone around the rink.From the energy in the building to what it actually takes to perform on a stage like this, this quick-hit episode captures the feel of big-game hockey in real time.Partners:https://www.instagram.com/bigjohndangles/https://hockeytraining.com/https://www.titanbattlegear.com/crazyhockeydadshttps://howieshockeytape.com/https://www.athleticperformanceinsight.com/Socials:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsX: https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551

Why most kids don’t actually know what a “good game” is.Scott and Jamie sit down with Sandy Cohan (Mental Edge Hockey) for a deep dive into the mental side of youth hockey and why so many players struggle with confidence, focus, and pressure.Sandy explains that most young athletes can’t even define what success is, yet their confidence rises and falls based on it. He breaks down why results (goals, points) are the wrong scoreboard, and why real development comes from actions, behaviors, and controllables, not outcomes. The conversation also hits what’s changed in today’s athletes (less focus, less grit) and how social media and comparison culture are making it worse. Sandy shares practical ways to help players reset, refocus, and build confidence, including why confidence is a skill that can be built, not something you either have or don’t. In this episode:Why most players can’t define “success” and why that mattersConfidence as a skill (not a feeling)The difference between awareness vs. focusWhy kids focus on “don’ts” and how to fix itHow parents can reshape post-game conversationsThis episode isn’t about hockey systems. It’s about how players think and why that changes everything.Partners:https://www.instagram.com/bigjohndangles/https://hockeytraining.com/https://www.titanbattlegear.com/crazyhockeydadshttps://howieshockeytape.com/https://www.athleticperformanceinsight.com/Socials:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsX: https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551

Scott and Jamie sit down with Scott Bartlett, NHLPA-certified agent at Bartlett Hockey, for a behind-the-scenes look at how the hockey development path actually works. Bartlett represents more than 30 NHL players, including stars like Cale Makar. Scott explains why most families rush the process, especially when it comes to agents and exposure, and why most players don’t need an advisor before junior hockey age. Instead, he believes the focus should be on development, not exposure, and letting opportunities happen naturally if a player is on the right track. He also breaks down common youth hockey myths, including the idea that players must play AAA to be discovered. Scott shares his own experience being cut from a AAA team, dominating at AA the next year, and how that adversity actually helped his development. In this episode:Why most young players don’t need an agent yetDevelopment vs. exposure in youth hockeyThe truth about AAA and getting “found”Why moving down a level can sometimes help developmentHow NIL and the transfer portal are changing the pathIf you’re trying to understand the real path from youth hockey to juniors, college, and beyond, this episode offers insight from someone who guides players through it every day.Partners:https://www.instagram.com/bigjohndangles/https://hockeytraining.com/https://www.titanbattlegear.com/crazyhockeydadshttps://howieshockeytape.com/https://www.athleticperformanceinsight.com/Socials:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsX: https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551

Scott and Jamie sit down with Topher Scott of The Hockey Think Tank for a candid conversation about the pressure surrounding modern youth hockey.Topher explains how tryout season and early recruiting have shifted the focus away from development, creating stress for families and players. He shares why youth hockey can feel more like a recruiting culture than a development culture, why parents need to help kids live in the moment, and how to actually evaluate whether a coach or program is helping a player grow.In this episode:Why tryout season (aka “silly season”) creates unnecessary stressHow recruiting culture has changed youth hockeyThe simple way to judge a good coachWhat actually helps players develop long-termIf youth hockey feels more stressful than it should be, this conversation helps explain why.Partners:https://www.instagram.com/bigjohndangles/https://hockeytraining.com/https://www.titanbattlegear.com/crazyhockeydadshttps://howieshockeytape.com/https://www.athleticperformanceinsight.com/Socials:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsX: https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551

The system isn’t as simple as you think.Scott and James sit down with Matt Dumouchelle, who spent over a decade working inside junior hockey, for a candid look at how the development ladder really works.Matt explains why families often misunderstand the pathway, how junior teams actually evaluate and move players, and why “exposure” doesn’t guarantee opportunity. The conversation dives into how perception, timing, fit, and relationships shape careers just as much as talent and why blindly chasing the next level can create more problems than it solves.In this episode:What working inside junior hockey taught him about the “path”Why exposure isn’t the same as developmentHow roster decisions really happenWhat families miss when navigating the systemThe difference between marketing and reality in youth hockeyThis episode isn’t anti-junior hockey.It’s pro-clarity.Partners:https://hockeytraining.com/https://www.titanbattlegear.com/crazyhockeydadshttps://howieshockeytape.com/https://www.athleticperformanceinsight.com/Socials:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsX: https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551

Scott and James sit down with Andries de Villiers, CEO of Titan Battlegear, for a blunt breakdown of what cut protection in hockey really means and why a lot of gear parents trust may create a false sense of security.After a tragic local on-ice incident, Andries dove deep into testing standards and discovered that many products marketed as protective weren’t stopping skate blades at meaningful levels. He explains the ANSI A1–A9 scale, why he calls A6 the “Mendoza line” for real protection, and why safety comes down to two things: cut resistance and coverage.The conversation also tackles early neck-guard mandates that were “legal but not effective,” why Velcro designs can fail (and frustrate players), and why lower-body cut protection (especially around the femoral area) is the next major gap families aren’t thinking about.In this episode:What the A1–A9 cut-resistance scale actually meansWhy A6 matters“Protection” vs. real protectionThe problem with poor coverage and bad fitWhy neck guards are only part of the conversationIf you assume a neck guard is a neck guard, this episode will change how you look at your kid’s gear.Partners:https://hockeytraining.com/https://www.titanbattlegear.com/crazyhockeydadshttps://howieshockeytape.com/https://www.athleticperformanceinsight.com/Socials:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsX: https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551

The Miracle on Ice captain delivers a youth-hockey reality check and then drops the “missing chapter” of 1980.Scott and Jamie sit down with Mike Eruzione, and the conversation goes way past the headline everyone already knows. Mike starts with a story that’ll make today’s hockey parents wince: he didn’t start skating until age nine, wearing his sister’s white figure skates with blue pom-poms. From there, he hits modern youth hockey straight on: the cost, the entitlement that comes with it, and why he literally stands alone at the rink. He tells an all-time story about shutting down a loud parent so hard that the whole rink went silent whenever his son touched the puck. Then Mike flips into the stuff most people don’t bring up: why the Finland game was the real make-or-break moment, and the stat that explains how that team actually won, they outscored opponents 16–3 in the third period, and the “best 20 minutes” they played all year was the final 20 against Finland. In this episode:Mike’s youth hockey origin story (pom-poms and a simple path) Why he avoids the stands: “they can’t hear you”… and you can’t control it anyway The silent-rink story: why nobody yelled when his son had the puck The “16–3 in the third period” stat that explains the 1980 team’s edge His leadership definition: trust + respect (not “I’m the best player so I’m the leader”) If you’re a hockey parent living in the stands, chasing ice time, or yelling “PASS!” through the glass… Mike’s message is blunt: stop trying to control it, support it.Partners:https://hockeytraining.com/https://www.titanbattlegear.com/crazyhockeydadshttps://howieshockeytape.com/https://www.athleticperformanceinsight.com/Socials:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsX: https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551

Scott and Jamie sit down with Jim Dowd for a no-nonsense conversation that cuts straight through modern youth hockey panic. From growing up a true rink rat to winning a Stanley Cup, Jim explains why early AAA, nonstop showcases, and year-round hockey aren’t what actually separate players.Dowd shares how he developed on free ice with buckets of pucks, why he didn’t play AAA until midgets, and how his own kids followed a similar slower, multi-sport path and still earned college opportunities. He also gets real about pro hockey: the mindset it takes to survive, the business behind roster decisions, and why skill alone isn’t enough without nutrition, habits, and mental discipline.In this episode:Why Jim says you don’t need AAA yet (and why parents panic anyway) The rink-rat origin story: free ice, buckets of pucks, and daily reps The classic reality check: drafted + full ride… and he still learned “five-hole” in collegeThe 1995 Devils “team-first” mentality, including Lou’s wild team bonus structureWhy today’s players are skilled… but missing nutrition + mindsetIf you’re a parent wondering whether you’re pushing too fast or a player trying to figure out what actually matters - this episode delivers a long overdue reality check.Partners:https://hockeytraining.com/https://www.titanbattlegear.com/crazyhockeydadshttps://howieshockeytape.com/https://www.athleticperformanceinsight.com/Socials:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsX: https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551

The must-listen follow-up to Episode 50Scott and Jamie sit down with Ken Martel, Senior Director of Player & Coach Development at USA Hockey, to clear up some confusion surrounding the new USA Hockey Development League and directly follow up on their conversation with Bob Mancini in Episode 50.Ken explains what the Development League is actually designed to do, why “open borders” matter, and why USA Hockey believes long-term scouting and accountability, not a single combine or draft, should determine where players belong. He also addresses misconceptions around control, outlines how clubs are selected, and why USA Hockey wants closer alignment with programs to raise development standards across the board.In this episode:What parents and coaches are getting wrong about the Development LeagueWhy “open borders” are intentional and how the marketplace is supposed to workHow USA Hockey plans to hold clubs accountable (yes, there are “teeth”)Why DL is about sharing best practices, not labeling teams “elite”If Episode 50 explained what the Development League is, this episode explains how it’s going to function in the real world. If you’re a parent trying to make sense of the noise...this one matters.Partners:https://www.titanbattlegear.com/crazyhockeydadshttps://howieshockeytape.com/https://www.athleticperformanceinsight.com/Socials:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsX: https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551

What it is, why it exists, and how it’s about to change the path.Scott and Jamie welcome back Bob Mancini, Assistant Executive Director of Hockey Development at USA Hockey, for a rare, detailed breakdown of the USA Hockey Development League straight from one of the people building it.Bob explains why the league was created, what problems it’s designed to fix, and why it’s not a replacement for Tier 1, high school, prep school, or juniors - but a reorganization of the development path. He walks through the thinking behind the 15U and 17U age groups, strict development standards, game limits, coach education requirements, and why the goal isn’t to rush players forward, but to put them in environments where they can actually excel.In this episode:What the Development League really is (and what it isn’t)The logic behind 15U & 17U, entry and exit points, and “overripe” developmentMandatory rules: game limits, one game per day, goalie coaches, education, and mental trainingHow the DL is designed to strengthen every pathway, not replace themThis is one of the clearest looks you’ll get at the future of elite youth hockey in the U.S. If you’ve heard rumors, half-truths, or hot takes - this episode sets the record straight.Partners:https://www.titanbattlegear.com/crazyhockeydadshttps://howieshockeytape.com/https://www.athleticperformanceinsight.com/Socials:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsX: https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551

How intentional reps, decision-making, and efficiency drive real improvement.Scott and Jamie sit down with Ryan Murphy, Skills Coach for the New Jersey Devils, to break down how development actually works at the NHL level.Ryan walks through his path from New Jersey youth hockey to prep school, the U.S. National Team, Boston College, pro hockey, and now working daily with NHL players. His message is simple and consistent: when time is limited, every rep has to matter.In this episode:Why NHL practices are short and highly intentionalWhat parents should look for in a skills coach or programWhy confidence and hockey IQ separate players long before speedThis episode pulls the curtain back on how the best players train and why doing less, better, is often the real edge.Socials:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsX: https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551

Why doing less - more often - actually worksScott and Jamie sit down with Coach Kevin, founder of hockeytraining.com, for a much-needed reset on youth hockey training. Kevin shares his own winding path getting cut late from AAA, stepping away to play football, finally breaking through at 20 and how those experiences shaped his no-nonsense approach to development.The conversation centers on one simple idea: most kids don’t need more sessions, more teams, or more chaos...they need consistent, manageable work they’ll actually stick with.In this episode:- Why 10 minutes a day of stickhandling beats marathon workouts- The hidden downside of too much ice and too little free play- How training should change as kids get older without burning them out- Why road hockey, off-ice work, and lower-commitment programs still matterSimple, practical, and refreshingly realistic - this episode gives parents a better plan than just adding another skate.Socials:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsX: https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551

Why building it from the rink up is the reason this thing worked.Scott and Jamie sit down for a reflective, end-of-season check-in after nine months of Crazy Hockey Dads - a podcast that started as two dads venting and turned into a global conversation with hockey parents in 38 countries. From forgotten skates and waxed-lace debates to the lessons pulled from guests and listener stories, this episode is about how the pod (and the community around it) grew by keeping things real.In this episode:What surprised them most after nine months of recordingThe moments, guests, and stories that resonated with hockey parentsWhy honesty, humor, and saying the quiet part out loud actually workedGrounded, grateful, and forward-looking - this episode is a pause to appreciate what’s been built and a reminder that the best stuff still comes straight from the rink.Socials:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsX: https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551

Why rushing hockey is the fastest way to get it wrong.Scott and Jamie sit down with Sadie Lundquist - Minnesota-grown, former college and pro player, and now Deputy Director of College Hockey, Inc. - to talk about what development looks like when you don’t rush it. From growing up in Cloquet and playing with her brothers to choosing fit over flash in college, Sadie brings lived experience and real data to a conversation full of unnecessary panic.In this episode:Growing up in Minnesota’s community model without early pressure or rankingsChoosing Bemidji State to build something instead of chasing prestigeHow playing with boys, staying multi-sport, and avoiding comparison builds confidenceGrounded, honest, and calming in the best way - this episode is a reset for any parent wondering if their kid is “behind.”Socials:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsX: https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551

Why the kids who struggle early often last the longest.Scott and Jamie sit down with Jeff LoVecchio - former D1 and pro player, longtime Hockey Think Tank co-host, and founder of GMBM: Give More Be More to unpack a hockey journey built on getting cut, staying patient and learning how to own your development.Jeff walks through growing up in St. Louis with grounded parents who refused to fight his battles, getting cut from teams, playing one or two shifts a game his first year of AAA, and being forced to look in the mirror instead of blaming coaches. He explains how those moments, not early dominance, shaped his confidence, work ethic, and long-term success.The conversation dives into what Jeff sees now after 18 years training thousands of players: why parents rush too early, how over-scheduling hurts development, why competition and discomfort matter, and how mentorship, not micromanagement, changes outcomes.In this episode:Getting cut and why it was the best thing that happened to himParents who didn’t call coaches and why that matteredThe danger of trying to build the “best 10-year-old”What real development actually looks like over timeIt’s an honest reminder for hockey parents everywhere: the path isn’t clean, progress isn’t linear, and the kids who learn to struggle early are often the ones still standing at the end.Socials:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsX: https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551

How a COVID accident became the biggest vibes-driven hockey brand in the game.Scott and Jamie sit down with Jonny and Austin, two of the original Hockey Guys, to break down how a group of college teammates stuck in online classes accidentally built a brand that now partners with more than half the NHL.They walk through the real story: Ontario and Manitoba childhoods, leaving home early, billet adventures, injuries, and the mental grind that shaped them long before TikTok. Then they explain why their content works, why fans who never played hockey connect with them, and how “just being the boys” ended up doing more to grow the game than any marketing campaign.In this episode:The COVID dorm-room moment that launched a media brandWhy the NHL hands them the keys to so many eventsThe real junior hockey path: billets, pressure, setbacks, and family supportOntario vs. Manitoba: two childhoods, same love for the gameIt’s funny, honest, and unexpectedly insightful...the story of how guys who just wanted to play hockey ended up changing how it’s shared with the world.Socials:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsX: https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551

From Queens to the NHL - and why most of youth hockey is overthinking it.Scott and Jamie sit down with Angelo Serse - ProStride Elite founder, New Jersey Devils skating coach, U14 Youth Devils national champion, and Ozone Park kid who nearly quit hockey on Day 1.Angelo shares his unique path: immigrant parents staring at a $2,500 AAA bill, his mom driving to Plattsburgh in snowstorms because he loved the game, and a late-blooming college opportunity that didn’t hit until his senior year. From there, he breaks down what families misunderstand about skating, development, and the “race” they think they’re in.In this episode:Why mite kids quit when they can’t skate and how games like tag and Superman dives keep them hookedSweden & Finland’s model: three sports, one club, no team-hoppingFigure skating vs. hockey and why the mechanics don’t translateConcise, sharp, and myth-busting, this is the skating conversation every hockey family needs before spending another dollar.Socials:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsX: https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551

Scott and Jamie sit down with Vinny Malts - founder of Bloodline Hockey, longtime pro, and the first mental-performance coach ever hired by the NHL to dig into the side of development nobody sees but every kid feels.Vinny walks through his wild rise from Philadelphia street hockey, to being drafted by the Vancouver Canucks, to a career-altering ankle injury that eventually pushed him toward mindset work. He also opens up about the depression he battled every postseason, the nervous-system science parents overlook, and why so many young players fall apart long before they fall behind.In this episode:• How Philly street hockey built elite small-area skill without a single lesson• Why nervous-system overload, not attitude, destroys confidence• The truth about comparison, early bloomers, and “falling behind”• How parents unintentionally model the wrong behaviors• Tools every family can use to handle pressure without killing joyIt’s part therapy session, part player-development masterclass and the perspective every hockey parent needs before their next car ride home.Socials:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsX: https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551

Surviving one of the wildest hockey paths you’ll ever hear.Scott and Jamie sit down with Alex Kim - former pro, Colorado College standout, and now Director of the Jr. Ducks to unpack a hockey journey unlike anything in the sport.Alex walks through growing up in non-hockey Southern California under a tiger-mom who preferred harpsichord, abacus, and speed-reading over slapshots, negotiating just to play the sport, and leaving home at 15 for the Soo - where culture shock, racism, and sheer grit shaped everything that came next.He also shares the twists that defined his career: turning down Ivy League offers, transferring colleges, and playing professionally in Europe and Korea. It’s a raw look at development, identity, sacrifice, and how much parents shape the journey without even realizing it.In this episode:Growing up outside the traditional hockey pipelineFacing cultural and racial adversity in MichiganBillet challenges and the mental toll of leaving home earlyWhy parents chase the wrong milestonesThe “hockey as a vehicle” philosophyIf you want perspective, humility, and a real look at what development actually requires… Alex delivers.Socials:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsX: https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551

Why real development takes patience, perspective, and a lot less panic.Scott and Jamie sit down with Bob Mancini - one of USA Hockey’s most influential minds and a key architect of the American Development Model (ADM) - to talk about what it really means to develop players the right way.Mancini breaks down how small-area games, delayed checking, and skill-first systems aren’t just buzzwords, they’re the building blocks of a generation that can think the game, not just play it. He also gets candid about the cultural challenges holding youth hockey back: parent pressure, fear of falling behind, and mistaking busyness for development.In this episode:The science (and sanity) behind the ADMWhy delayed checking created smarter, safer playersHow “more” hockey often leads to less growthWhat parents misunderstand about the path and what scouts actually seeIt’s the reminder every parent, coach, and player needs mid-season: progress isn’t instant, but it lasts a lifetime if you do it right.Socials:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsX: https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551

Real stories. Real questions. Real hockey chaos.This week, Scott and Jamie open up the inbox for a round of listener write-ins - the unfiltered questions and confessions from hockey parents everywhere. From kids getting moved to defense mid-season to dealing with burnout, overthinking, and team drama, this one’s part advice column, part group therapy.In this episode:- When your kid’s position changes and it messes with both your heads- The parent who realized they needed a reset more than their player- How to stay supportive when the season feels heavier than it should- The fine line between “helping” and hoveringPlus: Scott and Jamie’s take on why sometimes the best thing you can do… is shut up and drive homeIt’s an honest, funny, and surprisingly relatable peek into the real questions every hockey family wrestles with, whether they say them out loud or not.Socials:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsX: https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551

How compete, chaos, and balance actually build better athletes.Scott and Jamie sit down with Anthony LoSauro - longtime North Jersey Avalanche dad, Bergen Catholic fooball alum, and founder of Towermen Lacrosse - for a straight-shooting talk on raising kids who love to compete without turning them into mini-pros. From never giving up on his passion to driving development through curiosity (not clinics), Anthony shares how he’s built a foundation rooted in work, fun, and real life - not hype.In this episode:Why compete matters more than choreographyHow the “wild dog” stage is essential - if you teach control laterWhat youth sports lost when dads started “manufacturing athletes”Why his kids play fewer teams, more sports, and still get betterA must-listen for any parent trying to balance the drive to win with the goal of raising good humans who still love the ride.Socials:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsX: https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551

Two months in, and the dust is finally settling. Systems are clicking(ish), rides are less chaotic (maybe), and your kid might even be tying their own skates! Progress?Scott and Jamie sit down for an early season pulse check - the highs, the lows, and the subtle wins you only notice when you zoom out. From dealing with performance lulls to celebrating quiet growth, this one’s about seeing the full picture of development (yours and theirs).In this episode:- Why “less is more” is the secret weapon of more “seasoned” parents- When routine builds confidence and when that stops working- Trying to let go of the daily micromanaging and playing the long gameNot every weekend needs to be epic. But if your kid’s still smiling and learning - you’re on the right track.Socials:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsX: https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551

What matters, what doesn’t, and what’s actually next.This week, Scott and Jamie sit down with Doug Christiansen, former D1 and pro player, ECHL GM/Head Coach, Team USA U17 Coach, USHL Deputy Commissioner, and current ECAC Hockey Commissioner, to dig into the real layers of youth hockey development - not the fantasy version parents like to believe. From the myths of early exposure to the truth about who’s really watching, Doug lays out a grounded, honest roadmap for families who want to support their player without losing the plot.In this episode:- Why more minutes at the right level beats fewer minutes at the top- The real traits scouts and coaches look for - and when it matters- The importance of strong local development, not early exits- How ego and over-scheduling derail progress- Why a kid’s mental and emotional readiness matters more than tierIf you’ve ever wondered whether you’re helping or just hurrying the process, Doug’s perspective is a must-listen. Smart, specific, and rooted in decades of experience - without the sales pitch.Socials:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsX: https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551

One hell of a commute and a front-row seat to growing up.This week, Scott and Jamie sit down with Ben DeBlock, a hockey dad who's clocked the hours, booked the hotels, and still wonders if he's getting it right. From navigating long drives and tryout stress to realizing when to pull back, Ben offers a grounded, honest look at what it really means to support your kid through the hockey grind.In this episode:- How Ben rethought the “more is more” mindset- What structure gave their family and where it backfired- Why listening to your kid and partner is part of the jobIf you've ever asked, “Are we doing too much?”, Ben's been there. And he’s got the self-awareness (and mileage) to prove it.Socials:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsX: https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551

Are we trying to win… or just trying too hard?This week, Scott and Jamie unspool the madness of “win-at-all-costs” youth hockey, from kids ripping smelling salts in the locker room to coaches and parents acting like every weekend’s the Stanley Cup. What started as a joke turns into a serious question: when did we decide effort wasn’t enough?In this episode:- Smelling salts at 10U - what are we even doing?- Why kids are mimicking intensity without understanding it- When coaches push too far and confuse chaos for cultureHow the pressure to “be ready” can backfire in every directionThis one’s not about dialing it down - it’s about dialing it in. Because hype doesn’t equal heart. And smelling salts don’t make your edges better.Socials:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsX: https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551

A player’s journey. A coach’s perspective. A parent’s wake-up call.This week, Scott and Jamie sit down with Alec Marsh, former Penn State hockey forward and current assistant coach at Hobart College, for one of the most honest, insightful interviews CHD has ever aired.Alec walks through his own path from elite youth hockey to college then pro. Now as a coach, he’s on the other side of the glass, helping kids chase their goals without losing who they are.In this episode:- What kids actually remember about their hockey experience- What it actually takes to succeed at the next level- A coaching philosophy built on humans first, hockey secondWhether you’re in the grind, on the fence, or already down the rabbit hole, this one’s a gut check - in the best way.Socials:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsX: https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551

New routines, new teams, big emotions - here’s how to show up.This week, Scott and Jamie open up about the quiet signs that something might be off - not with the game, but with the kid. From sudden shifts in attitude to the moments where effort just disappears, this episode is about how to support your player when they’re struggling in ways they can’t explain yet.In this episode:- Jamie breaks down how outside stress can sneak into the rink - Why early-season emotions are real and how to not dismiss them as drama- Tools for creating space, checking in, and helping kids feel heard when they’re spinningIt’s not about fixing. It’s about paying attention and giving your kid the confidence to face the mess, not hide from it.Socials:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsX: https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551

A team, a town, a letter on the jersey and why it still matters.This week, Scott and Jamie bring on CHD dad and coach Brad for a conversation that flips the usual script. Instead of chasing the “next level,” they ask: what if the best thing for your kid is right in front of them?It’s not about exposure. It’s not about rankings. It’s about belonging, identity, and the kind of growth that happens when you play for more than just yourself.In this episode:- Why high school hockey still builds something travel often can’t- The surprising value of not being the best kid on the team- How town pride, student sections, and shared locker rooms shape players differently- A reminder that the path isn’t always “up” - sometimes it’s right where you areWhether your kid’s wearing varsity letters or still chasing them, this one’s a grounded take on what the game still offers when you zoom out a little.Socials:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsX: https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551

When the season shows up and punches you in the mouth.The puck has dropped, emotions are high, and reality is… well, real. This week, Scott and Jamie debrief their opening weekends full of highs, lows, quiet panic, and that familiar reminder: this is going to be a ride.In this episode:Jamie watches himself bounce back from being a crazy hockey dad Scott realizes he still cares a little too much and maybe that’s okayWhy letting your kid figure it out might be the best strategy - even when it’s hardNo big rants. No hot takes. Just two dads checking themselves before the season gets away from them.If your weekend felt great and slightly soul-crushing… you’re in the right place.Socials:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsX: https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Crazyhockeydads

And its a marathon not a sprint...Day 5 of CHD Mini-Camp: Be the Chill You Want to SeeIt’s one thing to tell your kid to stay composed, it’s another to actually model it. In the final day of Mini-Camp, Scott and Jamie talk about staying calm when emotions spike, mistakes pile up, and your parent brain wants to explode in the parking lot.Because your kid doesn’t just need feedback, they need an anchor. And your energy sets the tone.In this episode:Why your stress becomes their stressHow to model emotional resets without pretending everything’s fineWhy it’s better to call a trusted friend than rant in the group chatThe power of owning your blowups and showing what bouncing back looks likeTool of the Day: “Model the Reset”You don’t have to be perfect - just grounded enough to show them how it’s done.Socials:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsX: https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Crazyhockeydads

Day 4 of CHD Mini-Camp: Mindset & Mental RecoveryOne bad shift. One rough weekend. One emotional post-game chirp from the backseat. That’s all it takes to send a kid’s confidence into a spiral.In Day 4 of Mini-Camp, Scott and Jamie go deep on what it really takes to keep your player mentally upright when things get messy. From post-game meltdowns to “two stars and a wish” feedback, this episode is your guide to protecting confidence without sugarcoating or making it worse.In this episode:Why post-game critiques often do more harm than goodThe parenting trap of trying to fix instead of listenHow Scott and Jamie have wrecked (and rebuilt) their own kids' confidenceWhat “your reaction becomes their inner voice” really meansTakeaway Tool: “Stability > Stats” Protect the mindset - stay positive, even when the game wasn’t.Socials:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsX: https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Crazyhockeydads

Day 3 of CHD Mini-Camp: Managing ExpectationsIf you've ever told your kid, “Why can’t you skate like Johnny?”, this one’s for you.Today, Scott and Jamie get honest about the silent killer of youth hockey joy: comparison. From slapshot envy to AAA pressure spirals, this episode is a call to stop parenting the imaginary prodigy in your head… and start supporting the actual human in your house.In this episode:Why “progress, not perfection” needs to be your new family mantraHow comparison poisons confidence (for both kids and parents)Real stories about backflips, bike tricks, and smelly U18 glovesThe underrated power of little wins and long gamesPlus: Jamie admits to being pickleball stud, Scott confesses a dad-text before his men's league championship, and both CHD boys model how not to blow it in the driveway.Takeaway Tool: “Progress > Paranoia” Measure against yesterday, not someone else’s kid.Socials:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsX: https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Crazyhockeydads

Because bottling it up never helped anyone.Day 2 of CHD Mini-Camp is here, and today’s tool might just save your sanity: communication.Scott and Jamie break down what happens when parents don’t say the thing they’re dying to say and what usually happens when they say it too soon. From 24-hour rules to sideline showdowns, this is your guide to keeping it together, getting it out, and doing it the right way.In this episode:Why staying silent can make everything worse (even with good intentions)The power of the 24–36 hour rule - yes, even for textsHow to approach a coach convo without being “that parent”Teaching kids to speak up and model it like a grown-upWhy hanging out at the rink door isn’t communication, it’s chaosTakeaway Tool: “Clear is Kind”Say what needs to be said as the camera sees it, not as your emotions tell it.If you're headed into a season with big feelings, tough rosters, or just general unease... don’t go quiet. Speak up, but speak smart.Socials:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsX: https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Crazyhockeydads

Day 1 of CHD Mini-Camp: Resetting your parent brain for the season aheadWelcome to the first-ever Crazy Hockey Dads Mini-Camp! Five days, five quick hits to help you kick off the season without losing your damn mind.In this episode, Scott and Jamie break down one of the easiest things to forget (and the most important to remember): why you signed up in the first place. Because before the standings, the car rides, and the goalie drama... there was a good reason you said yes to youth hockey.In this one:Finding your "North Star" as a hockey parentWhy keeping it fun is still the best long-term strategyHow we let our own anxiety cloud the big pictureA reminder that pay-to-play means you opted into this chaosHow to reset when you're spiraling over things that don’t really matterPlus: The international listener base keeps growing, laces still haven’t been ordered, and yes, Brazil plays hockey.Takeaway Tool: “Joy = the Multiplier”Fun fuels confidence, effort, and long-term growth. Ask if they enjoyed it, not just how they played.If the season’s just starting and you’re already tense... this one’s for you.Socials:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsX: https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Crazyhockeydads

A masterclass in pretending not to care (while caring way too much).This week, Scott and Jamie hit that weird in-between space every hockey parent knows: when you want to scream into the glass… but don’t. You stay cool. You say the right things. You nod at the coach and smile at the other parents. But inside? You’re spiraling.In this episode:That quiet guilt when your kid’s ice time sucks and you’re trying to be chillHolding back post-game… but still accidentally making it weirdTelling yourself not to care - and realizing you definitely still doWhy the hardest part of hockey parenting isn’t what you say - it’s what you don’tIf you’ve ever sat through a bad shift pretending to scroll your phone, this one’s for you.Socials:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsX: https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Crazyhockeydads

Untangling your identity from your kid’s hockey career - without losing your mind.With the season fast approaching and tryouts in the rearview, it’s the perfect time for a gut check - not for your kid, but for you. Jamie shares a tough but honest reflection on a stretch where Dom's own stress and uncertainty started showing up in his skating. A humbling reminder of how connected our energy is to theirs.In this episode:Jamie opens up about Dom's journey from Tier 1 to Tier 2 and why they left AAAScott admits how hard it is not to watch every shift like a coach - and how that mindset can affect the parent-kid dynamicA shared truth: our kids aren’t just processing their own pressure - they’re absorbing ours tooThe big takeaway: showing up with confidence in them means checking the emotions we bring into the rinkIt’s not about being perfect. It’s about being aware and being willing to shift, even just a little. If you’ve ever wondered whether your presence is helping or hurting, this episode might bring some clarity… and maybe even a little peace.Socials:Follow on TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsFollow on X:https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsFollow on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Follow on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551Follow on Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/@Crazyhockeydads

We’re not saying you should do video review for mites… but we kinda did. This week, Scott and Jamie welcome Erik Cagnina from Athletic Performance Insight (API) to break down how game film and analytics are changing the youth hockey game - and why more teams (and parents) are leaning into the data. From tagging every offside to breaking down goalie angles, it’s a look at how video tools can actually help kids develop, when used with a little perspective. In this episode:- Yes, there was film review at 8U. Yes, it was a Crazy Hockey Dad/Coach thing.- How AA hockey can still be part of your path to Junior or D1- Weekly Rant: A jersey number saga, a Crosby tantrum, and a lesson in listening to your kidIf you’ve ever lugged a monitor into a hotel conference room or wondered if you’re doing too much - this one’s your therapy session.Socials:Follow on TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsFollow on X:https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsFollow on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Follow on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551Follow on Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/@Crazyhockeydads

In Part 2 with guest dad Chris Vollmer, we go deeper into the Bantam transition and what it really takes to keep your kid thriving without losing your mind (or your mortgage). From skipping spring to simplifying the schedule, Chris shares how they’re doing it their way this season and why that’s more than enough.In this episode:- Spring? Skipped it. Summer? About that…- What one season, one team looks like in Tier 1- Why trusting your gut matters more than following the herdIf you're staring down another packed calendar, this is the calm-in-the-chaos perspective every hockey parent needs.Socials:Follow on TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsFollow on Twitter:https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsFollow on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Follow on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551Follow on Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/@Crazyhockeydads

In our first-ever guest episode, we sit down with hockey dad Chris Vollmer, whose son is heading into Bantam Minor - and full contact - this fall. We talk through what that shift really means, the emotional and financial toll of chasing elite AAA hockey, and the moments that make it all feel worth it.In this episode:Bodychecking begins: why this stage hits differentGrowth under pressure: how the game shaped Chris and his kidWhen your kid loves it, but you’re running on fumesWeekly Rant: Cage hang already?!? Sty is not the priority here kids.If you're entering the checking years or deep in the elite chaos - this one’s for you.Socials:Follow on TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsFollow on Twitter:https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsFollow on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Follow on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551Follow on Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/@Crazyhockeydads

It’s not just about hockey. It’s about who they’re becoming.This week, Scott and Jamie slow it down - just a little - to zoom out on what this sport actually gives back. Yes, the weekends are chaos, and yes, the skates still don’t fit right. But in between the hotel breakfasts and 3v3 tournaments, something bigger is happening.In this episode:- Independence, confidence, and resilience - how hockey shapes kids for life- The hidden wins: tying skates, bouncing back from cuts, finding your crew- What parents learn too: humility, patience, and perspective- Weekly Rant: a Nashville dad meltdown and what not to do on a tournament weekendPlus: a revisit on skate costs, international CHD listeners in Sweden, and a reminder that even the messiest weekends might be the ones that stick.If you’ve ever wondered if all the effort is worth it - this one’s your answer.Socials:Follow on TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsFollow on Twitter:https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsFollow on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Follow on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551Follow on Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/@Crazyhockeydads

When private equity meets private lessons... who’s really winning?Scott and Jamie dig into the growing influence of money in youth hockey and how the chase for profit is quietly (and not-so-quietly) warping the game. From $500 “development” weekends to kids being pushed into specialization before they can tie their skates, this episode is a no-filter look at what happens when hockey becomes a business first.In this episode:How private equity and profit-driven models are reshaping rinks and programsThe mental weight of year-round “development” and the cost of over-schedulingWhy rushing to specialize might hurt more than it helpsChuck Norris jokes, because things were getting a little too realPlus: A look at why skill doesn’t always equal confidence, how early bloomers don’t always finish strong, and what we’re actually paying for in the modern hockey ecosystem.If you’ve ever wondered why your 10-year-old is training like a pro athlete this episode hits home.Socials:Follow on TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsFollow on Twitter:https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsFollow on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Follow on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551Follow on Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/@Crazyhockeydads