• EP.152 - Unlocking Hockey Excellence: Mental Toughness and Personal Development with Vinny Maltz
    Feb 18 2025

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    This episode invites listeners to explore the intricate dance between mindset and personal development in sports. We engage in a thought-provoking conversation with mental performance coach Vinnie Maltz on how athletes can cultivate a growth mindset, embrace the mundane, and develop their unique operating manuals for success.

    • The importance of individual processes in player development
    • Developing a personal operating manual for sports
    • The 'Quadruple A' framework: Acceptance, Awareness, Accountability, Adaptability
    • Redefining mental toughness and pressure as a privilege
    • The necessity of consistent practice of basic skills
    • Encouraging open communication between players and coaches
    • The significance of self-awareness in skill development
    • The value of understanding one's strengths and weaknesses
    • Cultivating the farmer's mentality for long-term success

    If you're intrigued to learn how to amplify your performance through mindset and personal growth, don't miss this episode!

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    1 hr and 34 mins
  • EP.151 - Player Development and Community Impact: Insights from Andrew Milne of the Canmore Eagles
    Feb 11 2025

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    This episode features Andrew Milne, head coach and general manager of the Canmore Eagles, who shares insights on the importance of work ethic, teamwork, and personal growth in hockey. He discusses the changing landscape of junior hockey and emphasizes the values of integrity and character development.

    • The significance of work ethic and self-assessment
    • Honesty and integrity in player development
    • The evolving nature of junior hockey recruitment
    • Teamwork and individual contributions to success
    • The role of community in nurturing hockey talent
    • Celebrating engagement through events like Hockey Day in Canada

    If you're passionate about hockey and aspire to develop not just as an athlete but as a person, tune in to Andrew's invaluable perspectives on achieving success.

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    1 hr and 28 mins
  • EP.150 - From Family Roots to International Ice: Max Plante's Hockey Journey
    Jan 28 2025

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    Max Plante shares his inspiring journey from early childhood hockey experiences through the challenges and triumphs of competing internationally. From overcoming a broken wrist to winning a gold medal with Team USA, he discusses the lessons learned through adversity and the vital support of his family as he continues his hockey career at Minnesota Duluth.

    • Explores the significant influence of the Plante
    family legacy on Max's career
    • Discusses Max's experience in the National Team Development Program
    • Describes the pivotal challenges faced, including injury and disappointment
    • Highlights the emotional journey leading up to the World Junior Championship
    • Reflects on the importance of teamwork and resilience in competitive sports
    • Shares insights on the transition to college hockey at Minnesota Duluth

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    1 hr and 29 mins
  • EP.149 - From the Minors to an NHL Legend: Duncan Keith's Journey of Resilience and Triumph
    Jan 21 2025

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    Duncan Keith reflects on his unique journey from being an undersized, undrafted player to becoming a three-time Stanley Cup champion, Conn Smythe winner, and two-time Norris Trophy winner. He emphasizes the importance of belief, adaptability, coaching, and teamwork in shaping one's career and legacy.

    • The power of belief in oneself
    • Overcoming the odds as an undersized player
    • The pivotal role of coaching in player development
    • Transitioning from junior hockey to professional levels
    • The significance of teamwork and friendships in hockey
    • The evolution of playstyle and adaptability throughout a career
    • Celebrating collective success over individual accolades

    These show notes provide insight into Duncan's impressive story while also delivering impactful lessons for aspiring athletes.

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    1 hr and 25 mins
  • EP.148 - Scott Niedermeyer on Team Success, Personal Growth, and Mastering Defensive Play
    Jan 14 2025

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    In this episode, Scott Niedermeyer shares his transformative journey from junior hockey to becoming a Hall of Fame defenseman. He reflects on the crucial lessons learned through adversity, the importance of teamwork, and the development of confidence in navigating the challenges of competitive hockey.

    • Insights on the transition to junior hockey at a young age
    • Overcoming adversity and finding success in team dynamics
    • Learning from the demanding coaching style of Jacques Lemaire
    • Embracing mistakes as growth opportunities
    • The significance of enjoying the game and fostering passion
    • Confidence fluctuates and is cultivated through experience

    Join us to learn about the essence of being a valuable teammate and the lifelong lessons embedded in the sport of hockey.

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    1 hr and 30 mins
  • EP.147: Empowering Athletes in the Online World with Katrina German
    Jan 7 2025

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    This episode with Katrina German emphasizes the importance of managing one's online identity as a young athlete in today's digital landscape. We discuss strategies to combat online bullying, the mental health implications of social media, and the responsibility athletes have to maintain a positive digital presence.

    • Importance of digital identity for athletes
    • Risks associated with social media and online presence
    • Mental health challenges linked to social media use
    • Strategies for dealing with online bullying
    • Awareness of the long-term consequences of digital footprints
    • Building resilience and confidence in digital interactions
    • Encouraging responsible online behavior among athletes
    • Tools and techniques for managing online content
    • Promoting positive digital citizenship in sports
    • Call to action: Reflect on your online presence and make conscious decisions regarding digital interactions.

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    1 hr and 9 mins
  • EP.146 - Embracing Authentic Leadership and Personal Growth in Youth Hockey with Topher Scott
    Dec 17 2024

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    Join us for a captivating conversation with Topher Scott, co-host of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, as we delve into the essence of leadership in youth hockey. Discover how actions speak louder than words and why authenticity and self-awareness are game-changers for young athletes. Topher shares his personal journey as an undersized player who defied the odds to lead at the USHL and NCAA levels, providing invaluable insights for players and parents facing similar challenges. His story is a testament to the power of resilience and embracing one's true self, both on and off the ice.

    Through engaging anecdotes and thoughtful discussions, we tackle the nuances of physical development in hockey and the unique advantages late maturers can bring to the game. Learn why scouts and coaches should look beyond physical attributes to appreciate a player's understanding of the game and competitive spirit. Embrace the underdog mentality as a catalyst for personal growth, nurturing resilience and mental toughness in young athletes. Our conversation highlights the importance of fostering a supportive environment in youth sports to inspire a growth mindset and long-term success.

    Explore the transformative impact of authenticity in leadership roles, as Topher reflects on his own experiences at Cornell. We discuss how embracing one's true nature can lead to a more cohesive and motivated team environment, emphasizing the value of self-reflection and understanding one's identity. With stories of perseverance and the celebration of team success, this episode offers a comprehensive look at how personal growth and authenticity drive excellence in hockey and beyond. Whether you're a player, parent, or coach, this episode is packed with insights to inspire the leaders of tomorrow.

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    1 hr and 40 mins
  • EP.145 - From Prospects to Pros with Glen Murray
    Dec 5 2024

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    What if your late-birthday child is actually an NHL superstar in the making? Join us on Up My Hockey as Glen Murray, former NHL standout and current director of player development for the Los Angeles Kings, shares invaluable insights on nurturing young talent in a world where patience is key. From his journey as a first-round draft pick to his wisdom on developing today's players, Glen offers a unique perspective on what it takes to transform a promising prospect into a successful professional athlete.

    Glen and I unpack the intricacies of guiding young players through the challenges of professional transitions, focusing on the importance of patience and adaptability. Discover the behind-the-scenes decisions that can make or break a player's career, and hear firsthand how strategic time in the minors has shaped players like Quinton Byfield. We discuss how the Los Angeles Kings' organizational philosophy supports players at every stage, setting them up for long-term success.

    Throughout our conversation, we emphasize the significance of trust and mentorship in developing resilient team players. Glen shares stories of players like Patrice Bergeron, who have excelled by embracing team-oriented skills and leadership qualities. We celebrate the Los Angeles Kings' development strategies and highlight the roles of veteran players in fostering a nurturing culture. Join us as we explore the beautiful game of hockey through the lens of someone dedicated to shaping its future stars.

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    1 hr and 16 mins