In this episode of the Hockey Journey podcast, John Swanson shares his inspiring journey from a young hockey enthusiast to a dedicated coach and mentor. 

He discusses the challenges he faced growing up, including the loss of his father and the impact it had on his life and hockey career. John emphasizes the importance of passion, proper training, and mentorship in developing young players.

He reflects on his own experiences in college and professional hockey, the lessons learned, and how he now focuses on guiding the next generation of players, including his daughter, who aspires to play at the Olympic level.To Learn More About John Swanson visit the below :)X7 Hockey Website - https://x7hockey.com/Instagram - @X7HockeyYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@SwansonX7Hockey

To Learn more about Coach Lance - 

Online Hockey Training

Largest Online Data-Base Off-Ice Stickhandling, Passing and Shooting Drills

https://www.onlinehockeytraining.com/

In-person lessons with Coach Lance

https://www.sweethockeycoach.com/

Instagram - @onlinehockeytraining

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@OnlineHockeyTraining

From NCAA D-I to pro hockey (NWHL/EWHL) to coaching the next generation

On this episode of The Hockey Journey Podcast, I sit down with Allie LaCombe — a Minnesota native whose hockey path has taken her from NCAA Division I to the professional ranks in the NWHL and European Women’s Hockey League, and now into coaching and leadership roles that are shaping the next generation of players.

Allie starred at Syracuse University, where she led the nation in faceoff percentage her senior year, before playing professionally with the Connecticut Whale, the Vienna Sabres in Austria (winning an EWHL title), and Almaty Aisulu in Kazakhstan. But her story didn’t stop when her playing career wrapped. With more than a decade of coaching experience, she has worked at every level of the game — from guest coaching at NHL development camps with the Vancouver Canucks and Carolina Hurricanes to training NHL, AHL, USPHL, and NCAA athletes in elite skill development.

Currently serving as Assistant Hockey Director and Head Coach with the Nashville Warriors, as well as guiding teams with the Jr. Predators, Allie continues to share her knowledge, passion, and teaching ability with young athletes, helping them chase their hockey dreams.

This conversation covers her journey as a player and coach, the lessons she’s learned along the way, and what she’s doing to grow the game and inspire the next wave of talent. Whether you’re a player, coach, or hockey parent, you’ll come away motivated by Allie’s story and perspective on the sport we all love.

Enjoy the ride, friends — this is the hockey journey of Allie LaCombe!

Connect with Allie LaCombe

• Instagram: coach_allielacombe
• Nashville Warriors – Gary Force Acura Ice Arena: garyforceacuraicearena.com
• Email: [email protected]

Learn More about Coach Lance Pitlick

• Online Hockey Training — Largest Online Data-Base Off-Ice Stickhandling, Passing and Shooting Drills: onlinehockeytraining.com
• In-person lessons with Coach Lance: sweethockeycoach.com
• Heads Up Hockey App: headsuphockey.ai

Today’s Guest: Katie Cummings

Today’s guest is someone who represents what this show is all about—commitment, grit, and the love of the game. Katie Cummings didn’t grow up in a hockey-crazed town or follow the traditional pipeline to success. She built her journey out of passion and persistence in a place where rinks were scarce, girls’ teams were barely formed, and playing opportunities meant lacing up for three different teams in a single season.

From practicing on a mini-rink in Nashville to eventually becoming a national champion with the Jr. Preds U19 girls program, Katie’s story is a powerful reminder that you don’t need perfect circumstances to chase big dreams. You just need drive, creativity, and the willingness to go all in.

This is a story about breaking barriers, holding the line when it would've been easier just to quit, and leaving a legacy for the next wave of girls who want to play this great game.

Let’s dive into the inspiring hockey journey of Katie Cummings!! Connect with Katie 🙂

• Instagram: @k_cummings27
• TikTok: @k_cummings27

To Donate to Michigan Women's Hockey:
https://giving.umich.edu/basket/fund/312094

To Learn More About Coach Lance Pitlick:

• Online Hockey Training: Largest Online Database of Off-Ice Stickhandling, Passing, and Shooting Drills
  https://www.onlinehockeytraining.com/
• In-Person Lessons with Coach Lance:
  https://www.sweethockeycoach.com/
• Check Out the Heads Up Hockey App:
  https://headsuphockey.ai/

In this episode of the Hockey Journey Podcast, I’m joined once again by Michael Fitzgerald, the founder of Heads Up Hockey AI, to talk about the exciting launch of their newest innovation — Heads Up Crush.

Inspired by popular mobile games like Candy Crush, this new evolution brings fun, competition, and consistency into off-ice hockey training — helping players develop elite-level vision, awareness, and hockey sense with just a phone or tablet.

We talk about:

• Why off-ice cognitive training is the missing link for many players

• How Heads Up Crush works (and why players love it)

• The science behind the drills and game design

• What’s new with their subscription model

• And how players of all ages can benefit from this brain-first training approach

If you're a player, parent, or coach looking to gain an edge, this episode is for you.

🎯 Learn more or become a member: headsuphockeyai.com

Thanks for listening, and enjoy the conversation!

To Learn more about Coach Lance Pitlick, visit - 

Online Hockey Training

Largest Online Data-Base Off-Ice Stickhandling, Passing and Shooting Drills

https://www.onlinehockeytraining.com/

In-person lessons with Coach Lance

https://www.sweethockeycoach.com

Today, we're talking about the amazing evolution of the Dodge County Girls High School Hockey Program, and how they just made history by winning their first ever State Championship!  The guy who's been at the helm of the ship for over 500 games as head coach, Jeremy Gunderson have experienced every emotion a squad could go through.  The last 2 seasons for this group had the 2 extremes, the agony of defeat a year ago and most recently, the thrill of a bitter sweet victory.  If you're looking to build a hockey program from the bottom floor, you have 18 years to dedicate to the project, you'll get the blueprint of how Dodge County did it!  Thanks for stopping by and enjoy this special episode!!

To learn more about Coach Lance Pitlick, visit - 

Online Hockey Training

Largest Online Data-Base Off-Ice Stickhandling, Passing and Shooting Drills

https://www.onlinehockeytraining.com/

In-person lessons with Coach Lance

https://www.sweethockeycoach.com/

If interested in purchasing the Stickhandling Training Aid

https://headsuphockey.ai/

Use the Code coachlance for 10% off the investment into yourself :)

I recently picked up The Pictorial History of Hockey by Joseph Romain and Dan Diamond at a thrift store for just $3.00—what a find! The moment I flipped through its pages, I knew I had to do a podcast episode on it. This isn’t a traditional book review; instead, I’m diving into the parts that grabbed my attention and the stories that resonated with me. As I started recording, an unexpected outline took shape, guiding me through hockey’s origins and the fascinating backstories behind some of the names etched on the NHL’s most prestigious awards.

Tune in for a journey through the rich history of the game we love!  Thanks for stopping by, enjoy this episode and have a productive day!

To Learn more about Coach Lance - 

Online Hockey Training

Largest Online Data-Base Off-Ice Stickhandling, Passing and Shooting Drills

https://www.onlinehockeytraining.com/

In-person lessons with Coach Lance

https://www.sweethockeycoach.com/

If interested in purchasing the Stickhandling Training Aid

https://headsuphockey.ai/

Use the Code coachlance for 10% off the investment into yourself :)

Today's episode explores the personal journeys of Behzad and Laura, owners of Toxyfree, Stillwater, Minnesota's only shop selling artisan-crafted, toxin-free health products. Rem guides a thoughtful discussion on their transformations through health, nutrition, and environmental awareness and how that relates to their products and passion for helping others live their best lives.

Key Discussion Points

• The impact of food choices on well-being
• The importance of mindfulness and rituals
• The influence of the fashion industry on sustainability
• The connection between nutrition and athletic performance
• Advocating for a return to real food and conscious living

Key Takeaways

• Childhood experiences shape our understanding of health.
• Processed foods can lead to lifelong struggles with health.
• Nutrient-dense foods are essential for well-being.
• Environmental toxins can trigger autoimmune diseases.
• Relationships can foster personal growth and awareness.
• Mindfulness and rituals enhance daily living.
• Athletic performance is influenced by nutrition and health choices.
• The fashion industry often prioritizes profit over sustainability.
• Education is vital for making informed choices.
• Spirituality and health are interconnected.

Chapters

• (00:00) Introduction and Gratitude
• (06:12) Behzad's Journey and Environmental Awareness
• (15:44) Health Curiosity and Athletic Pursuits
• (21:12) Philosophical Discussions and Future Directions
• (28:18) The Value of Simplicity and Natural Materials
• (33:16) The Impact of Fast Fashion on Society
• (39:18) The Connection Between Clothing and Energy
• (48:41) Evolution of Athletic Gear and Performance
• (54:02) The Impact of Materials on Health and Performance
• (59:12) The Search for Authenticity in Athletic Wear
• (01:08:49) Creating a Healthier Athletic Environment
• (01:13:56) Cultural Perspectives on Food and Health
• (01:21:10) Trust and Education in Nutrition
• (01:28:51) Innovations in Athletic Clothing
• (01:34:46) Merchandising and Branding in Sports
• (01:45:34) Grounding and Natural Living
• (01:50:46) Education and Awareness in Toxin-Free Living
• (01:55:54) Navigating Basic Life Needs
• (02:01:09) Redefining Success and Abundance
• (02:09:50) Authenticity in Business and Life
• (02:15:43) The Power of Kindness and Love
• (02:20:49) Finding Joy in Purposeful Living
• (02:26:56) The Spiritual Connection to Nature
• (02:34:28) Navigating Science and Spirituality in Modern Life
• (02:40:36) Closing things down

Learn More About ToxyFree

Visit:www.toxyfreepath.com

Sponsors & Special Offers

• Online Hockey Training: Score 20% off your order with codeGOLD20 at checkout 🚨
  www.onlinehockeytraining.com
• ToxyFree: Score 10% off of your Valet service when you use codeREM10 at checkout 🚨
  ToxyFree Valet

Join Rem’s Online Community

For more behind-the-scenes insights, join Rem’s community:
Join here

Music Credits

Our music today was courtesy of the incredibly talentedNick Mair. Be sure to check his tunes out!

Intro music: "Lance's Song"

Outro music: "Feeling The Love"

In this episode of The Hockey Journey Podcast, Rem is joined by our podcast producer, Mike Schwartz. Mike founded MusicFit Records to provide artists with the tools to build a sustainable music career. He’s also an artist-producer, multi-instrumentalist, and the Trusted Authority of Musician Wellness. Their conversation explores the profound connection between music, mindset, and athletic performance, emphasizing how the power of sound can influence our emotional and physical states.

Mike shares his unique journey from being a farm kid in Alberta to becoming a creative force in the world of music and athletics. He discusses the importance of understanding the frequencies of music and how they can impact performance, recovery, and overall well-being. As they delve into the science behind sound, Mike highlights many facts about music and how we can play with it to become the best version of ourselves.

Musical Frequencies and Athletic Performance

Discover how different frequencies can enhance training and recovery, and learn about the innovative methods Mike uses to help athletes tap into their full potential. They discuss the significance of mindset in sports, emphasizing that the stories we tell ourselves shape our beliefs and actions.

Connection to Heritage

Mike also discusses reconnecting with his Indigenous roots and how these cultural narratives inform his understanding of creativity and community. The conversation is a heartfelt reminder of the power of love, connection, and the creative spirit in the journey to become the best version of yourself.

Chapters:

Connect with Mike Schwartz:

Big Thank You to our Sponsors for this episode:

✍️ Episode References

Music for today’s show:

“Flutter 639” - bravebear. and “KEEPGOING” - Mike.

Thank You for Listening!

Follow Rem on Instagram: @rem.pitlick and join The Hockey Family Community on Grouped to share your love and light with us! 😊

We hope this episode inspires you to enjoy the power of music in your life and athletic journey. Stay tuned for more stories and insights that celebrate the incredible world of hockey and the people who make it amazing!

Rem is joined by Thomas Gobeil, a passionate hockey agent, former player, and Co-Founder of Elit3 Agence. Their conversation dives deep into Tom's journey from a young athlete in Quebec to his current role as a coach and agent, focusing on the importance of emotional intelligence and personal development in hockey.

Tom shares his experiences growing up in a hockey family, his challenges in the competitive junior leagues, and how his love for the game and commitment to health led him to create an agency that prioritizes holistic development for players. Elit3 Agence combines lifestyle coaching, emotional intelligence training, and athletic representation, emphasizing that true success in hockey—and life—comes from being a well-rounded human being.

Tom also discusses his passion for foraging and creating tinctures from medicinal mushrooms, highlighting the connection between nature, health, and athletic performance. This episode is a heartfelt reminder that being a good person and embracing one's individuality can lead to success on and off the ice.

🔗 Join here

Welcome to another exciting episode of The Hockey Journey Podcast! Join us as we dive into the vibrant world of hockey in South Florida with our amazing guest, Cole Kodsi, co-founder of the SoFlo 3 on 3 League. Today, Rem leads a casual conversation between his brother Rhett and Cole as they all share their experience in SoFlo, the 3v3 Hockey league that's been at the centre of the growing hockey community in beautiful South Florida. The boys hold space for Cole to share his unique journey from growing up in a non-traditional hockey market to creating a thriving hockey community in the Sunshine State.

Listen in as Cole shares his experiences of playing hockey from a young age, journey of building SoFlo, and the incredible connection that has formed among players. Discover the importance of small-area games in skill development and the exciting plans for expanding SoFlo into new territories. Whether you're a pro or new to the sport, this episode is packed with insights, passion, and the spirit of brotherhood and creative collaboration.

Get ready to be inspired by the story of SoFlo and the vibrant hockey culture it has blossomed in South Florida. Listen in on this engaging conversation that highlights the power of community, connection, and love for the game.

(00:00)

Intro

(00:29)

Who is Cole Kodsi?

(01:46)

Cole's hockey journey

(04:03)

How the boys connected in South Florida

(08:30)

How was the South Florida 3v3 league born?

(12:41)

How did Cole turn SoFlo into a full-fledged business?

(17:16)

Is Minney the next SoFlo?

(26:45)

Mental mindset and how 3v3 helps the fundamentals

(28:21)

Save 20% off your order of Online Hockey Training with code GOLD20

(34:59)

What's next for SoFlo?

(38:16)

The scheduling challenges of a growing league

(41:04)

How to manage conflicting schedules during the summer hockey season

(43:30)

Would you guys ever like to do a three-on-three league in Minnesota

(51:58)

Inspirations form the boys

(01:00:45)

Use code REM10 to save 10% on your Toxy Free Valet Service

(01:07:17)

Biggest takeaways from SoFlo

(01:08:46)

Wrapping things up

Connect with SoFlo Hockey

🌐 Learn more at www.soflohockey.net

Follow them on Instagram: @soflohockey

Follow Cole: @ckodsi27

🙏🏼 A big Thank You to our wonderful sponsors!

Online Hockey Training

Score 20% off your order with code GOLD20 at checkout 🚨

Toxy Free

Score 10% off of your Valet service with code REM10 at checkout 🚨

For more behind the scenes from Rem, check out his online community here!

Music Credits

Our music today was courtesy of the incredibly talented Nick Mair.

Intro music: "Lance's Song"

Outro music: "Feeling The Love"

Thank you for joining us on this journey. We hope you feel inspired and connected through the stories we share. Stay tuned for more episodes that celebrate the love of hockey and the incredible people behind it. Have a blessed day!