THE LOCKER ROOM LIFE

BOSTON UNIVERSITY | NY ISLANDERS | TEAM USA

In this episode, we sit down with Kamil Bednarik to unpack an incredible journey built on discipline, sacrifice, and belief. From his early days with Chicago Mission to earning a spot with the U.S. National Team Development Program, Kamil’s path reflects what’s possible when preparation meets opportunity. Now playing at Boston University, he’s fully locked in on the ultimate goal — winning a national championship.

We dive into the foundation behind his success — the unwavering support of his parents, the daily habits that separate good from great, and the mindset required to keep leveling up. Kamil also reflects on the honor of being drafted by the New York Islanders, a milestone that validated years of work and sacrifice. The conversation culminates in one of the highest honors in the game: being named to Team USA for the World Junior Championships.

Humble, driven, and grounded, Kamil shares what it truly means to earn every opportunity, chase excellence, and represent something bigger than yourself. A must-listen for players, parents, and anyone chasing the next level.

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" THE ROAD IS WORTH IT "

This week on the podcast, we sit down with Diego Johnson, a resilient and driven forward whose hockey journey proves that the path to success is rarely linear. From his roots in British Columbia to navigating multiple junior leagues across North America, Diego shares the lessons learned from adapting, persevering, and continuing to bet on himself.

Now currently playing for the Penticton Vees in the WHL, Diego talks about embracing opportunity at a high level, earning his role, and continuing to develop against elite competition. We dive into the grind of moving between junior leagues, the challenges that come with change, and how each stop helped shape his growth both on and off the ice.

Diego also reflects on the honor of wearing the maple leaf and winning gold with Team Canada, a defining moment that reinforced his confidence and belief in his ability to compete with the best. He opens up about adversity, being passed over, and using those moments as fuel rather than setbacks.

Diego shares what led to his commitment to the University of Connecticut, why UConn felt like the right fit, and how he’s preparing for the next chapter of his hockey journey in Hockey East.

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CHICAGO STEEL | OHIO STATE | WASHINGTON CAPITALS

In this episode, we sit down with Jackson Crowder—a humble, grounded force whose hockey journey reflects pure dedication and character. From his rise through Dallas Stars Elite, to battling in the USHL, earning his commitment to Ohio State, and being drafted by the Washington Capitals, Jackson has already built an impressive résumé.

Now competing with the Chicago Steel, he continues to elevate his game with the same quiet consistency and work ethic that brought him here.

But behind all the accomplishments is what truly defines him: family.

Jackson talks about the foundation they’ve given him, how he stays centered amidst pressure and expectations, and why being present—both as an athlete and a person—matters more than anything. His story is a testament to hard work, gratitude, and staying true to who you are, no matter how high you climb.

A powerful conversation with a young man who leads with humility and purpose.

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" CROTS "

From California rinks to the college game and beyond, Emmett Croteau’s journey is built on belief, work ethic, and staying grounded through it all. In this episode, Emmett opens up about forging his own path, trusting the process when results aren’t immediate, and developing an unshakable mindset in a sport that tests you every day.

Now competing at Dartmouth College and drafted by the Montreal Canadiens, Emmett shares what truly drives him — humility, discipline, and gratitude. He reflects on the privilege of earning a world-class education alongside chasing a pro dream, and why character, consistency, and perspective matter just as much as performance.

Honest, inspiring, and real — this is a conversation about who you become in the pursuit of greatness, not just where hockey can take you.

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" THE WILL TO LIVE "

In this deeply personal episode, we sit down with Dylan Ghaemi, whose journey to Division I hockey at Stonehill College is nothing short of remarkable. Dylan opens up about the traumatic event that nearly ended not only his hockey career, but his life. With courage and honesty, he shares what it took to survive, to heal, and to find meaning beyond the darkest moment he ever faced. This is a story of resilience, perspective, and purpose — a reminder that every day above ground is a gift not to be taken for granted. Dylan’s journey doesn’t stop at the rink. He now works as a Senior Player Agent at IBA Hockey, and speaks on his long-term pursuit of becoming an NHL agent after law school, along with how his experience reshaped his outlook on life, ambition, and gratitude. This episode will move you, challenge you, and remind you why the fight to live — and live fully — is always worth it.

WARNING: This interview contains graphic details depicting a real event. Listener discretion is strongly advised. This episode is not suitable for children.

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GTHL TO THE USHL .. DEDICATION IS THE PATH

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Jet Kwajah, a rising force in the game whose journey is built on discipline, belief, and an unwavering standard of excellence. From battling in the highly competitive GTHL, to earning his place in the USHL, Jet’s story is one of relentless commitment and an inner fire sparked early—inspired by the guidance, support, and example of his father.

Jet walks us through the grind behind the scenes: the early mornings, the sacrifices, the mindset shifts, and the refusal to take shortcuts. A Penn State commit with elite accolades already on his résumé, he emphasizes what truly separates the good from the great: work ethic, dedication, and a winning mentality.

This conversation is a blueprint for any young athlete chasing greatness. Jet reminds us that talent opens the door—but winning, competing, and outworking everyone around you is the only way forward.

High-energy, honest, and inspiring… this is one you won’t want to miss. This is LIFE.

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BOSTON FLEET | USA GOLD MEDALIST | PWHL PIONEER

In this episode, we sit down with Abbey Levy, one of the true pioneers of the PWHL. Winning runs deep in her blood — from capturing three national championships with Shattuck-St. Mary’s, to bringing home gold with Team USA, Abbey has built a legacy defined by resilience, leadership, and excellence between the pipes. Her storied college career laid the foundation for a seamless transition into the professional ranks of women’s hockey, where she continues to make an impact on and off the ice.

Beyond the rink, Abbey opens up about the incredible community projects she’s involved in — using her platform to inspire and empower the next generation of athletes. This episode dives into her journey, her mindset, and her mission to grow the game for everyone who dreams big.

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O CAPTAIN !! MY CAPTAIN !!

An inspiring conversation with Teddy Merrill, captain of the Dubuque Fighting Saints, whose journey through junior hockey is a true testament to resilience and self-belief. Teddy opens up about the moments where he refused to quit, the times he had to bet on himself, and how that mindset shaped his path to success. Now leading one of the USHL’s most respected programs, he shares his focus on bringing home a Clark Cup before taking the next step in his hockey journey to Colgate University.

Teddy also reflects on the unwavering support of his parents, whose belief in him fueled his determination and made every step of the journey possible.

This episode dives deep into leadership, perseverance, and what it means to truly earn your place in the game — both on and off the ice.

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Episode 19: Dr. Alicia Naser | Ph.D.,BCBA-D

Behavioral Sports Psychology

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Alicia Naser, Ph.D., BCBA-D, a leading Behavioral Analyst and Mental Performance Coach whose impact stretches across the NHL and elite levels of hockey. Inspired by her brother with Autism, Dr. Naser’s journey into behavioral science began with a personal mission — to better understand, support, and empower others through the science of human behavior.

Today, she applies that same passion and purpose to athletes at the highest levels, helping them build mental resilience, emotional regulation, and a stronger sense of identity both on and off the ice. Her deep understanding of performance psychology and behavior analysis has made her one of the most trusted voices in the game — a mentor not just for athletes, but for anyone striving to achieve greatness under pressure.

Join us as we dive into Dr. Naser’s inspiring story, her insights on the mental side of hockey, and how she’s reshaping the conversation around mental health and performance in the sport we all love.

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Episode 18: Sammy Nelson

Brotherhood, Sacrifice & the Dream — The Sammy Nelson Story

In this episode, we sit down with Sammy Nelson — a standout Forward with an inspiring story that reflects pure passion, dedication, and family-driven motivation. From his early years growing up alongside two older brothers who constantly pushed him to elevate his game, to earning the incredible honor of playing for the USNTDP, Sammy’s journey is a true testament to hard work and heart.

He opens up about the sacrifices his parents made to support his dream, the lessons learned through adversity, and the excitement of joining his brothers at Notre Dame next year to continue chasing greatness together.

This conversation dives deep into the mental side of development, the family bond that fuels success, and what it truly takes to turn dreams into reality — both on and off the ice.

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