In this episode of the PowerTech Development Podcast, Eric and Andy reflect on the parenting journey from early youth hockey days to one of the biggest milestones in any hockey family: the NHL Draft.

Andy shares the emotional experience of watching his son get drafted to the Dallas Stars, how he navigated being both a coach and a dad, and where he sometimes went too far. Together, they offer honest, real-world advice for parents who want to support their kids without pushing them too hard.

This episode is packed with insight for anyone involved in youth sports — parents, coaches, and players alike.

Key Themes:

• Why time changes your perspective as a parent

• The difference between “nudging” and “pushing” your child

• Letting kids take ownership of their development

• Creating safe, honest environments for young athletes

• Why enjoying the journey matters more than the outcome

02:00 – Time Passing: Eric reflects on growing out of playing; Andy on stepping away from business and battling complacency

09:00 – NHL Draft Moment: Andy shares the experience of watching his son get drafted by the Dallas Stars 14:30 – Never Forced: Why Andy never made his son play or pressured him to pursue hockey

17:30 – Nudge, Don’t Push: What it means to support your kid without forcing them

26:30 – Player Autonomy: Letting athletes come up with ideas and make choices

29:50 – Honest Development Environments: Eric on removing judgment so players don’t hide struggles

34:00 – Overstepping: Andy shares times he went too far as a parent and coach

39:00 – Long-Term Perspective: Andy’s goals when his son started playing vs. now

49:00 – Enjoy the Journey: Why parents need to take pride in the process, not just the results

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube 📲 Follow us: @powertechonline | @epzolo

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