Jason Demers is former professional ice hockey player who played 700 games in the National Hockey League. He also would represent Canada in International competition.

Even though these accomplishments are both impressive and special his achievements are far more impressive when you learn that he accomplished this while battling "performance anxiety". Performing while under the influence of "performance anxiety" can feel as if you are "running in quicksand". This is to say that, not only is this extremely difficult but attempting to overcome this can feel as if you are running to your demise.

Jason Demers, shares insights as to what this is like as well as how he overcame it. At the same time, Jason will share with us how he is now attempting to help other young athletes overcome performance anxiety through a program he is a part of called Find Your Play (link below).

We can find Jason Demers on TV now as a commentator/ analyst for the San Jose Sharks.

Find Your Play - (click here)

Happy New Year Episode ...

This is Part 2 of 2, of our incredible interview series with Lou Vairo. In this segment, Lou shares with us stories of epic proportion. Added to this, Lou spends time sharing his secret(s) to becoming a "great" leader.

Within this episode, Lou will share with us how some of his simple - yet overly complex and difficult decision making, which altered the lives of many people (professional athletes and coaches), was accomplished by simply resting upon the life skills provided to him at young age. You will learn about how his insights and instincts gave career opportunities and re-births to so many, when their levels of significance were looked-past by many so-called "experts".

Delays in releasing this episode were the result of several technical issues we experienced.

Lou Vairo's interview(s) are some of the most listened to and commented on.

THANK YOU Lou for taking the time to talk with us.

*Special Thank You to - Joe Stanczyk and Mike McKinley from Libertayo

Lou Vairo's Book

The Godfather of US Hockey

For many of us, the ability to meet and connect with a living legend is something beyond our wildest imagination. The ability to connect with Lou Vairo is equivalent to being able to access the archives of the "Smithsonian" of US Hockey. Lou Vairo is responsible for the implementation of the physical training, strategic plans, and moral compass of ice hockey as we know it today. Lou helped implement the physical training used by some of the most dominant athletic programs in the world today. It was Lou who introduced these training styles to North American hockey programs. These physical training systems were then transformed into the technical strategies used by most professional programs throughout North America today.

But, arguably the most incredible element Lou Vairo introduced to the National Hockey League has been the implementation of the Diversity Program today. Not only has this program brought the important recognition of the efforts of Willie O'Ree but it has helped grow the game of ice hockey more than words can describe.

*Special Thank You to - Joe Stanczyk and Mike McKinley from ⁠Libertayo Media⁠.

Lou Vairo's Book

⁠The Godfather of US Hockey⁠

If you are a motorsports fan or simply in awe of "Racing Royalty"you are going to LOVE this interview.

Jarett Andretti is the son of former Indy and NASCAR great - John Andretti. In January of 2020, John lost his battle with cancer. But during his fight, he decided to bring more awareness to the importance of attaining regular colonoscopies. In doing such, he and his family created the Check it 4 Andretti Foundation (checkit4andretti.org) which provides FREE colonoscopies to those in need.

In 2021, Jarett decided to pursue the family tradition of becoming a professional race car driver. Jarett is the grandson of Aldo Andretti who is the brother of Mario Andretti. He competes in the IMSA SportsCar Championships. As a member of Andretti AutoSport, Jarett and his team compete in the LeMans-like racing series where he and his teammates race around the clock for 24 hours. (This form of racing was displayed in the recent movie "Ford vs Ferrari" starting Christian Bale and Matt Damon).

During this interview Jarett explains some of insightful nuances of motorsports compared to the many main-stream sports many will experience throughout their youth and adolescents. But in doing such, he opens our eyes and attention to some of the mental aspects needed to be successful on and off the track. Jarett also sheds light on how varying personalities and perspectives of being competitive exist within professional race car driving.

We are SO fortunate to have been able to speak with Jarett and please take the time to follow him on Instagram as well as share with everyone checkit4andretti.org ... We never know who may be in need of this incredible source of help and support!

Follow Jarett on Instagram

@jarettandretti

In Honor of John Andretti (#CheckIt4Andretti Movement)

www.checkit4andretti.org

For the those of our listeners who are into Sports Science and Innovation you are going to enjoy this interview. For those who are into all the above PLUS the sports of ice hockey and rugby ... You're going to LOVE this interview.

Jordan Troester Phd, is the Director of Performance - Sports Science and Innovation at the University of Oregon. His path to this incredible achievement is credited to the incredible sacrifices and dedication he and his family have made to attaining an amazing career accomplishment. Dr. Troester's journey to the University of Oregon covers almost all four corners of the Planet.

In doing such, the accumulation of insight and knowledge through the many sports experiences he has attained are beyond impressive. Added to this, he has also been able to develop Standards of Excellence for one of the most successful professional sports organizations to date. A professional program that has achieved their highest level of achievement (greatness) in arguably the shortest period of time. (The Las Vegas Golden Knights - Stanley Cup Champions in only their 6th season).

It was such a delight and honor to connect with this incredible person - Jordan Troester PhD.

linkedin.com/in/jordan-troester-phd-73597b19

https://goducks.com/staff-directory/jordan-troester/1936

The HeadSet Podcast was honored to have the opportunity to interview one of the best in world of performance psychology. Duncan Simpson PhD is the Director of Personal Development at IMG Academy.

Dr. Simpson, provides young athletes with a wealth of insight and information on what it means to dedicate your life to being/becoming an elite athlete. He also provides an incredible look behind the scenes of IMG Academy.

This is a great sources of insight for young athletes seeking the opportunity to learn more about attending an elite Sports and Educational institution.

Duncan Simpson is also a co-host of of the Performers PodCast that can be found on on Spotify.

[email protected]

@sportpsychdunc⁠

imgacademy.com

It is beyond a rare experience to see someone re-define records of excellence. It is even more exciting when you are able to meet someone who has shattered the standards that have kept those records of excellence intact.

Jennifer Welter Phd, is that person who "shatters" standards set by all others. She is not only an elite level athlete, a professional coach, she is also an author, and PhD in the area of Sports Psychology. Jen has shattered not only one ceiling but three. In 2014 - she became the first female to play professional football for the Texas Revolution (arena football). In 2015 - she was the First Lady to be signed as a professional football coach for the Texas Revolution (Linebacker coach). Later that same year (2015), Jen Welter PhD, became the first lady to coach in the NFL, for the Arizona Cardinals during both their Training Camp & Pre-Season. During 2015, Jen would receive the Women's Entrepreneur Day - Pioneer Award for her outstanding achievements in sports. In this interview Jen shares with us; insights into the intellectual facets of how NFL players are evaluated as well as how she became a source of inspiration for so many.

jenwelter / @welter47 / Linked-IN /Women's Sports Foundation

*Sponsor for this interview - The Harris Brand Foundation

For many of us ... We will go through life learning about individuals who defy the laws of nature ... and wonder if they will ever be fortunate enough to meet someone of this magnitude? ... I can now say .. "I have!". Several months ago, I found myself working late at night, using a movie playing in the background as a source of subtle distraction and timer. As the initial credits began to roll, I was drawn in to the movie by the caption "Based on a True Story". These are often my favorites. Almost instantly, the movie captured my attention, as it dealt with a former World Class hockey player who was trying to find his way in life as he overcame some of his inner demons.

The movie starred some incredibly talented actors. The lead character was played by actor Josh Hartnett, and the lead female actress was Mira Sorvino. Two incredible actors, with a long list of famous and acclaimed movies. The movie is "6 Below: Miracle on the Mountain". This movie put forth the incredible story of a man's ultimate "will to survive". Eric LeMarque was a Division-I ice hockey player for Northern Michigan, an NHL Draft Pick of the Boston Bruins, and a former member of the France Men's Olympic team during the 1994 Winter Olympics. To many, Eric's story is almost a "Fairy Tale" come true. But hidden within this dream, rest a "Nightmare of Reality". Eric was preparing to enter a rehabilitation program to rid himself of addiction. On the eve of starting the program, he attempted to take a small escape from life by going on a snowboarding excursion in the Sierra Mountains - alone! This trip would change Eric's life forever.

Besides being an incredible athlete, Eric LeMarque is also an author (Crystal Clear ... a journey through life as person attempting to overcome addiction), an entrepreneur, event speaker, and a performance consultant for elite level executives. Needless to say, Eric is busy individual who is constantly striving to help others attain their personal goals while "Re-Setting" his own. Eric is a person who is constantly working to help others reach their optimal best, but in doing such he is constantly pushing the limits of becoming the best version of himself. He truly believes in helping others by setting a good example. Today, Eric is attempting to become an elite level athlete in a manner yet to be achieved. Eric is training within his second athletic passion - snowboarding! This is not just a passion for Eric ... it has become a mission ... Eric is training to become the first athlete to compete in BOTH the Able-Bodied and Disabled Winter Olympic Games (Italy 2026).

Upon learning about the numerous trials and tribulations Eric has endured throughout his life, one can easily say that he truly embodies the "Ultimate Will to Endure, Overcome and Survive". Eric is a person whose positive vigor to live life to its fullest is both invigorating and inspiring. But nothing can compete with his positive and energetic personality! Eric's vibrant and electrifying zest to live everyday as if it were his last can only be best described - once you've had the chance to experience him. Not mention ... he is a person who has first hand experience with feeling that today could be his last ...

Professional Contact Information - LINK

6 Below: Miracle on the Mountain

Newspaper Article

NHL Statistics

Olympic Biography

Instagram

Every so often, we are fortunate to be able to meet people who truly live their life they way many wish they would. For many years I have been awe-struck with the athletes who compete in the PBR (Professional Bull Riders). Their level of athleticism is only matched by their level of courageousness. The idea of riding an animal that is larger and heavier than the average pick-up truck on the highway is beyond comprehension. Years ago, I was fortunate to experience the PBR live. During this experience I had the opportunity to stand 10 feet away from one of the most menacing creatures I have ever witnessed. This beautiful animal weighed more than 1500 pounds, and had a muscle structure that looked as if it were a Marvel Comic creature. It was at that moment that I realized what elite athletes Professional Bull riders must be.

The idea of riding an animal with that much power, anger and rage, for 8 seconds, cannot be described with mere words alone. By realizing the fact that athletes who compete on the PBR can die every time they ride, makes this sport more than extreme. Curtis Anderson was one of these incredibly brave and extreme athletes. Curtis was raised in Northern Alberta, Canada on a farm where he attributes the grown and development of his intense work ethic. It would be this sense of work ethic that would help him regain his life.

In 2002, while competing in the World's 5th Largest PBR event, the Ponoka Stampede, Curtis Anderson's would embark upon the toughest ride of his life. While riding the bull "Real Handy", Curtis would sustain 2 traumatic brain injuries on one ride. These major concussions would change his life forever. The injuries Curtis sustained caused him to have be medically induced into a coma to help relieve the pressure in his brain. Since his departure from the University of Alberta hospital, Curtis began a rehabilitation process that would last almost 2 decades. The up-hill battles he has had to face and overcome would make many quit and find refuge in the realization that things will never be the same. Fortunately for Curtis, his work ethic and mindset to always push forward and push beyond the boundaries placed before him - caused him to never accept the limits placed upon him.

Curtis Anderson has taken his injury and created a life line for so many athletes. Today he shares his story, as well as insight regarding TBI's (Traumatic Brain Injuries), and what it means to live life "Resiliently" to youth/adolescents, College/University students, as well as businesses and corporations. When he is not sharing his story, and lifting up others as they attempt to overcome the limits placed upon them as a result of a TBI, Curtis is working on the Canadian Trail Ride - a non-profit event that tries to raise funds and awareness for those suffering from a TBI. It is because he has chosen to live a life under the motto of "Never Give Up ... Don't EVER Give Up" ... This is not just a saying for Curtis. This is how he has chosen to live his life - every day. It is this same message that he shares with his others.

If you are looking for a motivation speaker who can provide a powerful message of what it means to be resilient - contact Curtis Anderson.

Motivational Speaker Bio

https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-anderson-6804b2ab/?originalSubdomain=ca

Courage Canada - Trail Ride https://cowboycountrymagazine.com/2022/06/curtis-anderson/

Courage Canada - Trail Ride Videos

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EqOUqNTh8W0

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vOAoo4Hvklc

Whenever we think about the definition of "Resiliency", we often think of those that must overcome great obstacles that care placed before them. At times, we may even think of the person who seems to get "knocked to the ground" again and again. A "real life" Rocky Balboa. For some, it is the combination of both that makes their accomplishments so exceptional. But for only a select few, not only have they had to overcome mountains of obstacles, while also having to weather the seemingly endless storms of defeat ... they somehow were able to conquered both as well as use their experiences to then help others. This is not only true example of "resiliency", this is the sign of an incredible champion in life! This is the story of Kendra Fisher.

Once an elite goaltender and member of Team Canada's National. Kendra Fisher represented Team Canada as both an In-lIne and Ice hockey player. In doing such, her ability to face adversity was second none. Facing 70 mile per hour shots from less than 10 feet from her net was not an issue. Feeling the pressure to win on a team, whose entire nation lives and breathes the sport of hockey ... she calls that "just and average day". Where did fear and anxiety live within her ... it lived in the simple tasks of every day life, and the every day routine of being an elite athlete. For years, Kendra suffered from extreme levels of anxiety and depression, which grew into OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) and over time Agoraphobia. Simply having leave her home, so that she could attend practice, became more difficult than having to climb Mount Everest. In the same manner, she would often find herself overwhelmed with fear and worry, so much so, that a simple 20 minute drive to the arena could take over an hour. A simple drive to a game would cause her to become so overcome with fear that it was cause her to become nauseous and then become sick, all while begging her family to please turn the car around so that she could go back home. Kendra's story is truly one that movies are based upon (hopefully this will happen some day for her).

But today, Kendra is something different ... to say the least. Today, Kendra is on a speaking tour where she addresses high school, college, and university students about her struggles and victories battling mental health. She shares incredible stories of pain, suffering, and defeat, while subtly sharing in the most modest manner her incredible victories along the way. As an athlete, Kendra Fisher was one of the best in the world at her position. Today, not only is she saving lives by sharing her story, her insights, and the lessons she's learned along her incredible path ... But she is also saving lives as a Fire-Women.

Checkout: www.kendrafischer.com

Follow Her: https://www.instagram.com/kfisher30/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWNkc0gdtzKIwVCjlIsnYEw

https://www.facebook.com/KendraFisher.mf