The Hockey Think Tank Podcast

At 17, he was a high school JV goaltender.He is now a starting goalie in the AHL.Tyler Parks is a true inspiration. On our podcast we talk ALL.THE.TIME about the importance of resiliency and sticking to it through all of the failures that come with trying to achieve something great. Tyler Parks is the embodiment of these values.As a relatively unknown, this podcast episode is one of our most downloaded of all time with how inspirational it was. We wanted to re-release it for anyone with a dream and needs a little bit of motivation. Enjoy!! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Topher and Jeff celebrate their 250th episode with friend, podcast listener, and NHLer, Paul Stastny! Stas and Vechs have been friends since they were playing squirts together - one has over 800 NHL points, has notched over 1100 NHL games, is a US Olympian and an NCAA National Champion (HINT: it’s not Vechs)!In this episode we discuss:— What it takes to have the kind of career Stas has had at the highest levels— How age and maturity change a players’ approach to the game— Mentorship, curiosity and brotherhoodAND SO MUCH MORE!Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS - we do this podcast for YOU and appreciate you listening and sharing with your teams, players, parents and coaches!Check out our link nordvpn.com/thinktank to protect your online activity. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, it’s a Topher and Jeff “ASK ME ANYTHING” episode. They ask each other three questions, unrehearsed, with some epic answers.In this episode we discuss:— The advice we’d go back and give our parents— What does “hard to play against” look like? (HINT: relentlessness is key)— Essential habits to achieve being a high level playerAND SO MUCH MORE!Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS - we do this podcast for YOU and appreciate you listening and sharing with your teams, players, parents and coaches!Check out our link nordvpn.com/thinktank to protect your online activity. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Topher and Jeff talk to Brady Leavold about his INCREDIBLE journey from pro hockey to addiction to prison, and how he is now helping to ignite change in mental health and substance misuse in the hockey world. PARENTAL DISCRETION is advised as the conversation is real, raw and honest.In this episode we discuss:— Creating powerful conversations surrounding mental health and substance misuse— Brady’s response to the trauma of childhood abuse— Making a difference through The Puck Support Network Non-Profit OrganizationAND SO MUCH MORE!Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS - we do this podcast for YOU and appreciate you listening and sharing with your teams, players, parents and coaches!Check out our link nordvpn.com/thinktank to protect your online activity. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Topher and Jeff talk about one of the most divisive topics in our sport: the cost of playing our great game.In this episode we discuss:— The financial barriers that exist in youth hockey— The costs involved in perpetuating those barriers— Questions parents can be asking to assess their families ROIAND SO MUCH MORE!Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS - we do this podcast for YOU and appreciate you listening and sharing with your teams, players, parents and coaches!Check out our link nordvpn.com/thinktank to protect your online activity. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Topher and Jeff talk to Sam Cheema - the Director of the Ironbound Hockey program. Sam, who now lives in NYC, is a former pro player who grew up in the UK and was a member of Great Britain’s National team.In this episode we discuss:— Providing opportunities for players in non-traditional markets— A holistic approach to development— Motivation, accountability & growthAND SO MUCH MORE!Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS - we do this podcast for YOU and appreciate you listening and sharing with your teams, players, parents and coaches!Check out our link nordvpn.com/thinktank to protect your online activity. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Topher and Jeff sound off on what it takes to play in the NHL - and how very improbable, statistically speaking, reaching that level is. A terrific and realistic conversation from two guys that have played, coached, and been around high level hockey their whole lives.In this episode we discuss:— The importance of goal-setting and consistency— Being intentional with your effort, energy and routines— Staying true to your whyAND SO MUCH MORE!Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS - we do this podcast for YOU and appreciate you listening and sharing with your teams, players, parents and coaches!Check out our link nordvpn.com/thinktank to protect your online activity. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Topher and Jeff talk to Assistant Professor and mental health clinician, Kelli Gast. She’s a hockey mom, a billet mom (with four billets playing pro hockey), with a uniquely qualified perspective on the mental aspects of playing high level hockey.In this episode we discuss:— How to help players identify and embrace the mental aspects of sports— Strategies to handle anxiety, fear and a loss of confidence— How parents and coaches can help young players develop positive mental health skillsAND SO MUCH MORE!Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS - we do this podcast for YOU and appreciate you listening and sharing with your teams, players, parents and coaches!Check out our link nordvpn.com/thinktank to protect your online activity. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Topher and Jeff talk openly about the times in their playing days when hockey just wasn’t fun, and how they worked through those obstacles. The reality is, it happens to every player at some point in their career - and there is no shame in asking for help when you’re struggling, on or off the ice.In this episode we discuss:— The story behind Topher being called Topher, instead of Christopher (it’s an INSANE story)— Strategies to grind your way out of a slump and get back to HAVING FUN— How Topher & Jeff each faced the challenge of wanting to walk away from the gameAND SO MUCH MORE!Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS - we do this podcast for YOU and appreciate you listening and sharing with your teams, players, parents and coaches!Check out our link nordvpn.com/thinktank to protect your online activity. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher welcome Stanley Cup champion and former first round draft pick, Eric Fehr. Some incredible stories on his journey from growing up on a farm to playing over 650 NHL games!In this episode we discuss:— What it was like playing alongside BOTH Ovi & Sid— An UNREAL story about learning a new position AT THE NHL level! — Eric’s new company and the product that is changing the game for athlete recoveryAND SO MUCH MORE!Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS - we hope you had a happy new year and we look forward to bringing you more great guests in 2023!Check out our link nordvpn.com/thinktank to protect your online activity. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher record a LIVE episode from GRANDMA’S BASEMENT!It’s a MAILBAG episode featuring YOUR questions, and as always, there are some awesome ones!In this episode we discuss:— Who was better at knee hockey— How to encourage communication on-ice— Creating parody in youth hockeyAND SO MUCH MORE!Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We love hearing from you so be sure to reach out on our social sites!Check out our link nordvpn.com/thinktank to protect your online activity. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher talk about the lessons they learned throughout their hockey journeys and the impact those lessons have had on their lives after playing.While each of their top three are similar (they are cousins after all), the ways they arrived at them, and the ways they’ve continued to apply them leads to some insightful discussion. A GREAT EPISODE TO HAVE ON DURING YOUR RIDE TO OR FROM THE RINK!Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS! This episode may have also singlehandedly contained the highest number of movie quotes of any previous pod episode!Check out our link nordvpn.com/thinktank to protect your online activity. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher talk to former Lake Superior State University player and current Lawrence University (DIII) Head Coach, Brett Wall. In this conversation we talk about:— Coaching philosophy & development— Motivating people — Leadership styles and their impactAND SO MUCH MORE!Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS! This episode has a little something for everyone and will be a terrific resource for anyone in a leadership role!Check out our link nordvpn.com/thinktank to protect your online activity. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher talk about the things they believe help maximize potential including:— Strive to constantly be learning— Who you surround yourself with matters— Self reflection/Self awarenessAND SO MUCH MORE!Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS! DO NOT fast forward through the sponsor reads - we promise you’re going to want to hear them. Topher & Jeff trade places and hilarity ensues.Check out our link nordvpn.com/thinktank to protect your online activity. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher do another MAILBAG from your questions on social media. They cover:— The balance between emotion and discipline— Ways to conquer point slumps— Training through breaks/weeks off for higher level playersAND SO MUCH MORE!Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS! We love doing these episodes - so DM or email us your questions any time and we will get to them on the next MAILBAG!Check out our link nordvpn.com/thinktank to protect your online activity. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we talked with former BC star and current Bishop Kearney Hockey Director, Chris Collins! He has some terrific stories from his playing days as well as his personal journey to giving back to our great game!In this conversation we talk about:— Doing what it takes to get better and create success— Evolve Hockey and the “Just Get Good” motto— How a kid from Rochester ends up running an elite hockey academy in his hometownAND SO MUCH MORE!Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS! This episode was a long time coming with our good friend Chris and his insight was worth the wait!Check out our link nordvpn.com/thinktank to protect your online activity. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff & Toph talk all things DISCIPLINE!In this conversation we talk about:— Flipping the script on the negative connotation of the word discipline and instead, using it as your superpower— Strategies to be disciplined in pursuit of your goals— a CRAZY parent email that you will not want to missAND SO MUCH MORE!Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS! This episode is quite the ride - Jeff is HIGH ENERGY and it leads to instant hilarity right from the jump!Check out our link nordvpn.com/thinktank to protect your online activity. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we talk to former pro hockey player turned futures trader, James Sixsmith who started a company while still playing to set himself up financially for life after the game.In this conversation we talk:— Sixer and Vecchs playing against each other overseas— What smaller players need to be successful at the highest levels— The work ethic that high level players have translating to success off the iceAND SO MUCH MOREThank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS! This episode is a great reminder that hockey teaches valuable life skills like humility and unmatched work ethic. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, it’s all about HOCKEY PARENTS! Jeff & Topher talk about what some of the best hockey parents do right and answer questions they’ve received from parents over the years.In this conversation we talk:— The car ride home— Burnout & injury prevention— Life lessons that the hockey experience teachesAND SO MUCH MOREThank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. Thank you to new sponsor NordVPN - an internet streaming and security company where you can get a great discount by going to nordvpn.com/thinktank.And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS! This episode is a great reminder that hockey is a journey for the whole family that starts and ends with a love of the game! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we talk to the founder of State and Liberty Clothing Company and former University of Michigan Hockey captain, Lee Moffie.In this conversation we talk:— Resiliency— Leadership & Transparency— Entrepreneurship— Culture and communicationAND SO MUCH MOREThank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. Check out our friends at Nord VPN: nordvpn.com/thinktankAnd thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS! This episode is another great reminder about the skills and lessons that can be learned through hockey and applied throughout the rest of your life. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher talk about confidence: why it’s important, how to achieve it, how to regain it, and why it’s not an easy process.In this conversation we talk:—Why confidence is such a huge part of development and success— Strategies to regain confidence— Learning to be comfortable in uncomfortable situationsAND SO MUCH MORE (like the boys being confident enough to sing Kelly Clarkson’s “Stronger”) THAT YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS!Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS! This episode is a great reminder that having confidence is a skill that must be honed consistently on and off the ice. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on former NHLer, Zac Rinaldo. Known for his gritty and physical style of play, this was a very raw, very honest, very intense conversation about living life and doing things with no regrets.In this conversation we talk:— The people who most influenced Zac growing up around the game— A competitive mindset and earning every day— Giving back to the gameAND SO MUCH MORE!Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, NordVPN and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS! This episode is a great reminder to work every day to be true to YOU and be your best self.Check out Nord here: nordvpn.com/thinktank Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on sports psychologist, Michael McElhenie, PhD. With years of experience helping bring successful leadership strategies and organizational culture in the corporate world, Michael now works to change the social and emotional intelligence landscape of sports one athlete, team, coach, and parent at a time with his company, Exult Athletics. In this conversation we talk:— What’s RIGHT with the youth hockey landscape, and where improvement can happen— Redefining masculinity (high performance and high compassion can, and should, coexist)— How visualization and other techniques can be incorporated in the development path both as a player and personAND SO MUCH MORE!Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS! There is something for everyone who wants to be better in this episode.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on former pro player and current NYPD Officer, Dan O’Donoghue. Growing up on Long Island, Dan’s road from youth hockey to DI - and eventually pro - was not a “traditional” path, and we talk about the life lessons learned through hockey that contributed to his success on and off the ice.In this conversation we talk:— Community, teamwork, and camaraderie— Toph and Dan’s coaching days together in Syracuse (and a little about how youth hockey can be better for the kids)— How playing high level hockey prepared Dan for a life of service in the NYPD— The spectacle that is the NYPD vs NYFD annual hockey gameAND MUCH MORE!Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, TrainHeroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS! We know you are going to love this one.Check out Nord VPN here: nordvpn.com/thinktank Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this LOST episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we re-release our conversation with one of the top hockey strength and conditioning coaches in the world, Mike Boyle! Mike is the legendary strength coach of many of the top Boston University programs and he works with a ton of top level NHL talent as well. In this episode, we talk:-Coaching with Jack Parker at BU-Filling up the buckets in development-Working with top NHL talent-MUCH MOREThank you so much to our sponsors GELSTX, TrainHeroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you most of all to all of our amazing listeners!! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher do another MAILBAG from your questions on social media. They cover:-Earning confidence-How to make a positive impression at the start of camp-Building connection-Jeff eats cookies!!-SO.MUCH.MORE!!!Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, TrainHeroic, CuredNutririon, and IceHockeySystems.com! And thank you most of all to our amazing listeners!!!!!! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this LOST EPISODE of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on ADM Manager for USA Hockey, one of the top minds in charge of the hockey development for USA Hockey, Bob Mancini! This was such a phenomenal conversation on youth hockey development and the in's and out's of USA Hockey's methods. We put the heat on Bob and asked a lot of tough questions and he was very open and honest about the positives and negatives of youth hockey culture today!We also talked about changes in the podcast! We are looking to hire a producer to help us take this podcast to the next level - so if you want to be a teammate of Topher and Jeff's reach out to Topher at [email protected] also talk about the significance of the "Lost Episodes..."Thank you to GELSTX, TrainHeroic, and IceHockeySystems.com!!! Thank. you to all of our AMAZING listeners. We hope you love this episode with Bob! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring back one of our most downloaded lost episodes and chat with IMPLEMENTATIONAL speaker, Ricky Mendez! Ricky has worked with people and companies around the world and his wisdom and knowledge were AMAZING. We talked:-Turning negative energy into positive energy-The power of gratitude-How to change your mindset and treat yourself better-MUCH MORE!This was as motivational and inspirational of a conversations as we've had and we're grateful to be able to share Ricky's perspective with you!Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, TrainHeroic, and IceHockeySystems.com. Thank you to BlueWire Pods. And thank you SO MUCH to our amazing listeners!! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on a culture and team building expert in Lee Elias!! This was such an amazing conversation on team culture - and we encourage you to get your pens and notebooks ready. On this episode, we talk:-Topher is going to Michigan!-Empowering and developing leaders-The power of accountability and standards-Defining team identity-MUCH, MUCH MORE!!What a conversation this was...we can't wait to bring it to you! We want to thank our sponsors GELSTX, TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com, and CuredNutrition. We want to thank our podcast parent company BlueWire Pods. And we want to thank all of our amazing listeners who support our podcast!! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we release a LOST EPISODE and talk with Chicago Blackhawks development coach Brian Keane of Prodigy Hockey. We get REAL in depth on youth development and youth hockey on this episode - it is one of the most downloaded we have ever done.It's a different type of episode as we use clips from one of the best youth development debates between experts Malcolm Gladwell and David Epstein to talk about what we see in the youth hockey world today. We talk:-Early sport specialization-Unstructured vs. structured play-How to teach anticipatory skills-The 10,000 hour rule-Deliberate practices, and so much more!This was the episode we dive the deepest into the research and we're excited to bring it to you! Thank you for tuning in to our podcasts!! Thank you to our sponsors, GelStx, TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com, and CuredNutrition. And a special thank you to all of our amazing podcast listeners!! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher take on your listener questions!! We love all of you who support our podcast and we want to make sure we're hearing from you and helping you on your hockey journeys whether you are a player, parent, or coach. We tackled SO MANY QUESTIONS serious and funny on this one...here they are:-What is advice for a first year coach coming into a college locker room, who hasn't recruited the players, and create buy in?-What are the best things to do in a tryout to get noticed?-Is Nickelback good music for training?-What is advice for a head coach moving up to be an assistant coach at a higher level of hockey?-What are strategies for a player to earn more trust and ice time opportunities on the ice for a junior player?-What do I do as a parent when I see my kid liking the game but they don't compete hard?-What is advice for a parent that wants to cultivate a love and passion for the game in their kid?-What are your thoughts on plus/minus in assessing a player?-What is your most impactful lesson learned in hockey that you use today in life?-What are your thoughts on full ice practices for 12u teams?-Who should play goalie at the youngest ages of hockey?-How does a player get through the let down of making a team to be an impact player on the team when the season starts?-What is the number one "trick" for getting through a rut?-What are your thoughts on staying with one coach for five seasons in youth hockey?-Why are agents reaching out to kids so young when in Sweden there is a rule that you can't do that until the kids are 16 years old?-Is the defensive defenseman a thing of the past? Do NHL teams want/need this role anymore?-What are some tips for in season training?-What are important traits of a captain and what age should they be named?-What is more important to gain in transitioning to college hockey - strength or quickness?-What is the best way to establish my philosophy quickly as a coach of a new program?WOW we got through all of these!!!!!!!! Thank you to everyone that submitted questions - we really appreciate it!Thank you to our sponsor GELSTX, TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com, and CuredNutrition. Thank you to Bluewire Pods, our podcast parent company. And thank you so much to all of our amazing listeners!! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on the Academy Director of DC United Soccer Club, Pat Ouckama! We are huge proponents of playing multiple sports, and it was awesome to bring on someone with both a soccer and hockey background to speak about development. Pat runs one of the top soccer academies in the US, with his 16u team winning the National Championship this year. In this conversations, we talk:-The similarities of each sports game tactics-What he sees in players that succeed at the next levels-The value of studying other sports as a coach-MUCH MORE!Thank you to Coach Ouckama for taking time to come on our podcast! Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com, and our podcast company BlueWire Pods. And thank you most of all to all of our amazing listeners! We appreciate you so much and you are going to love this conversation. Enjoy! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on current Montreal Canadiens defenseman Chris Wideman! Chris trains with Jeff in the summers and played for Topher when he was a grad assistant at Miami (Ohio) and this was a really, really fun and insightful conversation. On this episode, they talk:-Playing for Martin St. Louis in Montreal-Being grateful for the good and the tough times-The importance of a support system in reaching your goals-MUCH, MUCH, MORE!!Thank you so much to Wides for hopping on the podcast. Thank you to our sponsors GELSTX, TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com, and our podcast company Blue Wire. And thank you most of all to all of our amazing listeners! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring back one of your favorite episodes...especially for the hockey moms out there...with Topher and Jeff's Moms!! When we brought our podcast over to the BlueWire Network, we lost a few episodes in the transfer that were some of ours, and our listeners, favorites.On this episodes, we speak to Debbie Scott and Colleen LoVecchio and share some really fun stories about our childhoods and our moms talk about the joys of being a hockey mom. We had a ton of fun on this episode, we know you are going to love it!!Thank you so much to our sponsors GELSTX, TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com, and CuredNutrition. Thank you to all of our amazing listeners. And most of all, thank you to all of the amazing hockey moms out there...this one is for you!!! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on a veteran of over 1,000 professional hockey games Derek Nesbitt! What a career spanning over 16 seasons. In this conversation, we talk:-The benefits of growing up in small town Canada-Playing for both Jared Bednar and Derek Lalonde-The keys to longevity in the game-Challenges of being a youth hockey director-MUCH MORE!Thank you to all of our sponsors - GELSTX, TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com, and Cured Nutrition. Thank you to our podcast parent company BlueWire Pods. And thank you to all of our amazing listeners for continuing to tune in every week!! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on the girl who stole all of our hearts as the St. Louis Blues went on their Stanley Cup run...Laila Anderson. We all remember Laila as the inspiration for the team as she was going through chemotherapy during the teams championship playoff season in 2019. From the viral videos of her mom letting her know she could attend the games in person, to her on ice celebration with the cup, to the entire city of St. Louis chanting her name at the parade...Laila was an inspiration to us all to keep fighting. In this conversation we talk:-Her journey through a potential terminal sickness-Her inspiring relationships with the Blues players, especially Colton Parayko-Getting to Boston for Game 7 of the Cup Finals-Bethematch.org, the organization that saved her life-An UNBELIEVABLE story with Brett Hull and Jon Hamm-MUCH MOREThank you to Laila (who actually trains with Jeff) for coming on the podcast! Thank you also to our sponsors GelStx, TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com, and our podcast parent company BlueWire Pods. And thank you so much to all of our amazing listeners...you are going to LOVE this episode. It's one of our absolute favorites!! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on 14 year professional player now leading a mentorship program for youth hockey players, Ryan Vesce! Ryan hails from Long Island, NY and played his college hockey at Cornell. He then went on to play 14 years pro over 7 different countries, including a stint with the San Jose Sharks where he scored his first professional goal on an assist from Joe Thornton (we talk about it on the pod). We also talk:-Developing a mindset for getting out of a slump-Some incredible prank stories-Scoring his first NHL goal in his hometown-The value of mentorship as you go through your journey-MUCH MORE!Thank you to Ves for this awesome conversation - you'll get a ton of insight into becoming an elite hockey player. Thank you also to our sponsors GelStx, TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com, and our podcast parent company BlueWire Pods.To check out Ryan's incredible Mentor Program matching up former and current professional and college players, visit https://matterhornmentors.com/And thank you to our amazing listeners...you're going to love this episode! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on bestselling author and one of the top motivational speakers and leadership consultants in the world Jon Gordon! Jon has worked with many major companies and professional sports teams on the power of positive leadership. His books have also inspired millions of people and organizations of all sizes all over the world.On this specific podcast, we speak to Jon about his book "The Hard Hat, 21 Ways to be a Great Teammate." This book chronicles the life of George Boiardi, a Cornell Lacrosse player who died tragically on the field as a senior captain after blocking a shot in his chest. This inspiring story of an amazing leader and the aftermath of his passing of a team trying to honor him by their play on the lacrosse field is one that is going to make you feel all the feels.For more on Jon's work, visit https://jongordon.com/.For more on George Boiardi's legacy and his foundation, visit https://www.boiardifoundation.org/Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, TrainHeroic, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to all of our amazing listeners, get ready to be inspired from this podcast conversation with one of the most positive leaders in our world - on one of the most positive influences and leaders ever to walk the lacrosse field. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher riff on Part 2 of Topher's presentation that he gave at the NCAA College Hockey Coaches Convention on the 5 P's of Leadership. The three P's they talk on are:-Preparation-Perspective-PresentWe know you're going to take some tidbits out of this episode that you can use in leading your teams!Thank you to GelStx, TrainHeroic, and IceHockeySystems.com for supporting our podcast. And thank you to the thousands of listeners who continue to tune in every week!! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on the new Associate Head Coach at Michigan State Jared DeMichiel! What an awesome conversation with one of the rising stars in college coaching coming off of a National Championship and turnaround at UMASS. In this conversation, we tackle:-Turning things around at UMASS leading to a National Championship-College recruiting and the transfer portal-The power of earning opportunities instead of guarantees-MUCH MORE!Thanks to DeMike for hopping on...and we have some other people to thank as well.Thank you to our sponsors GelStx (gelstx.com), TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com, and our podcast parent company Blue Wire Pods. Thank you to all of our amazing listeners - if you leave us a review on Apple Podcasts you'll be registered to win one of Jeff's hip mobility workouts for free! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher talk about Topher's 5 P's of Leadership:-People-Perseverance-Perspective-Preparation-PresentAlthough...the two talked so much about PEOPLE that there is going to be a Part 1/Part 2 on these topics. On this specific episode, Jeff and Topher talk about the importance of investing time and effort into PEOPLE and the importance of PERSEVERING in tough times. Great leaders understand these two ideals and work hard to facilitate environments to bring both to the forefront.We love talking leadership on this podcast, and our goal is to provide you with things you can use in your journey as a leader that can help you be the best you can be!Thank you to our sponsors - GelStx, TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com. Thank you to Blue Wire Pods. And thank you to our amazing following...we know you'll enjoy this one! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on former NHLer for the Vancouver Canucks and Washington Capitals - and now a visualization coach - Aaron Volpatti! Aaron has such a unique hockey journey...and such an inspiring story. We talk:-His near death experience with a fire and how it taught him resliency-How visualization helped him heal and helped him in his career-His journey to the NHL-Much more!!This again was such an inspiring conversation we are so thrilled to bring to you. Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com, and our podcast parent company BlueWire Pods. And thank you to all of our AMAZING listeners! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on NHL Network host and analytics expert Mike Kelly! This was an amazing conversation on the use of analytics to make teams better and for us to better understand the game. We tackle:-The use of analytics to form team identity-The importance of the neutral zone-Peeling back the onion of how goals are scored-Some great stories of how players/coaches are using analytics for development-Much More!!Thank you to Mike for this awesome conversation...it's one you are going to love. Thank you to our title sponsor GELSTX. Thank you to sponsor TrainHeroic and IceHockeySystems.com.And thank you to our amazing listeners!! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on NHL Hall of Famer and one of the top development coaches in the world, Adam Oates! Known as one of the best playmakers of all time, it was incredible being able to talk hockey with someone with such an amazing hockey sense as Adam. On the podcast, we talk:-Playing fast vs. Fast hockey IQ-Why players like McDavid, Ovechkin, and Crosby are so good-Building chemistry with teammates-MUCH MORE!What an honor getting Adam on the podcast to share his knowledge. We want to the GELSTX (gelstx.com) our title sponsor. We also want to thank TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com, and BlueWire Pods.Our biggest thank you goes to all of our amazing listeners! Thank you for all of your support for our podcast and we know you are going to get a ton out of this one! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on West Point graduate and United States Army veteran Joe Kramer! Joe played ACHA Club hockey at West Point and came on to share some of his hockey and leadership experiences with the armed forces. On this episode, we talk:-Leadership lessons learned in the military-How to bring a team together and build a bought in unit-How to create a "relationship with failure"-The benefits and experience of playing ACHA Club College Hockey-MUCH.MOREFirst and foremost, thank you to Joe for his service. Thank you also to our sponsors GelStx, TrainHeroic, and IceHockeySystems.com. This week we have another sponsor in Hello Fresh. Thank you to our podcast parent company, BlueWire Pods. And thank you to all of our amazing supporters and listeners!! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on the Co-General Manager of the Youngstown Phantoms of the USHL and Detroit Little Caesars' 15O coach Jason Deskins! This was a great conversation as Jason has so much great perspective with all of the hats he wears in the hockey world. The boys tackle:-Using the downs to motivate you-What he looks for in players as a GM in junior hockey-How to get into the business as a young coach-GOAL SCORING-LEADERSHIP-So Much MoreThank you to our sponsors GelStx, TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com...and thank you to all of our AMAZING listeners! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on Mount St. Charles Hockey Academy Director and 18u Head Coach, Matt Plante! Fresh off winning the National Championship, Topher and Jeff sit down with Planter and go through so many different awesome topics including:-Their National Championship Run-Coaching Kids at 18u who have gone on to play in the NHL and what made them special-A day in the life at a hockey prep academy-Why surrounding yourself with good people is important-MUCH MORE!!Thank you to our sponsors GELSTX, TrainHeroic, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to all of our amazing supporters out there...we love you! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher come loaded with questions for one another - yet the other person has no idea what the questions are. The non-scripted Q&A between the two guys end up becoming a great resource for all hockey players. Questions include:-How important is developing a routine?-How can you develop a goal scoring mentality?-What is advice for players who are playing a 3rd or 4th line role on a team?-What does being "hard to play against" mean?This was a really fun episode for the guys and we think you are going to really enjoy it too! Thank you to all of our amazing sponsors - GELSTX, TrainHeroic, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to all of our amazing supporters!! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on the Head Coach at Dartmouth College Reid Cashman. Cash is a great coach who came to Dartmouth from being an Assistant Coach with the Washington Capitols and this was a fantastic conversation on hockey development and the hockey journey.Cash grew up in MN and played his college hockey at Quinnipiac where he was a two-time All-American. He played a few years professionally before going behind the bench at his alma mater Quinnipiac. From there he went on to coach in Hershey of the AHL, followed by Washington and now Dartmouth.This was an epic conversation where we tackle:-What defense development looks like-The importance of habit building in practice-What it was like coaching the best players in the world in Washington-MUCH MORE!Thank you to our sponsors for this podcast - GelStx, TrainHeroic, and IceHockeySystems.com. Thank you to our Podcast Family BlueWire Pods. And thank you to all of our amazing listeners! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher take YOUR mailbag questions on anything and everything college hockey! With the NCAA Tournament in full swing, they take you behind the scenes of what college hockey is about. Jeff also takes you through his visit with to the USA National Team Development Program at their annual tryout showcase. Some questions the guys tackle on the podcast include:-What is it like to play in the NCAA Tournament?-How does University of Minnesota Duluth coach Scott Sandlin do it?-How do you get recruited and do summer showcases matter?-What are the best college hockey conferences?-What is the toughest college hockey rink to play in?This one was a lot of fun and made the boys really get nostalgic about their time playing college hockey.We want to thank our awesome sponsors GELSTX, TrainHeroic, and IceHockeySystems.com. We also want to thank our amazing listeners and supporters! We appreciate you and know you are going to love this conversation on #cawlidgehawkey Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.