In this episode of The Cycle Breakers Podcast, I'm joined by Jordin Tootoo - former NHL player, mental health advocate, and the first Inuk athlete to play in the league.
Jordin spent 13 seasons in the NHL, playing with the Nashville Predators, Detroit Red Wings, New Jersey Devils, and Chicago Blackhawks, where he became known for his toughness, grit, and relentless presence on the ice. But beyond the game, his journey is one of resilience, healing, and redefining what strength truly means.
Growing up in Rankin Inlet, Jordin learned early lessons from the land - lessons that shaped his identity, discipline, and ability to endure long before professional hockey entered the picture. He also shares why vulnerability is essential for Indigenous men, and how healing and sobriety didn't just change his life - they fundamentally changed how he showed up on the ice and beyond it.
This is an honest conversation about masculinity, healing, and breaking cycles - on and off the rink.
In this episode, we explore:
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Lessons from the land growing up in Rankin Inlet
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How failure can become a powerful motivator for growth
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Why mental health doesn't disappear with success or status
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The importance of positive encouragement in Indigenous communities
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Why Indigenous men need space to embrace vulnerability
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How healing and sobriety transformed Jordin's playing style and life
LINKS
Jordin's Instagram
Jordin's Website
Jordin's Book - All the Way: My Life on Ice
Jordin's Books - Mind Over Matter
Rachael's Website
Rachael's Instagram
Rachael's LinkedIn
The Cycle Breakers YouTube
The Freedom Method™️ Certification
Private Mentorship for Indigenous Leaders
Indigenous Employee Empowerment Program
Podcast Studio: Jilani Place