Up My Hockey with Jason Podollan

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Brandon Convery, once an NHL hopeful drafted eighth overall by the Toronto Maple Leafs, opens up about the rollercoaster ride from being a minor hockey prodigy to navigating the challenges of professional sports. Our conversation sheds light on the emotional highs and lows of draft year expectations, the vital role of a strong support system, and the mental grit required to excel amidst competitive dynamics. Brandon's insights are not only a testament to his journey but also serve as a guide for aspiring athletes to understand the intricate tapestry of patience, opportunity, and readiness that success demands.

We reminisce about the critical decisions young athletes face, such as choosing between the CHL and NCAA paths, and how these choices can set the course for their futures. Brandon shares personal stories of early setbacks, like injuries during pivotal moments, and how these experiences shaped his resilience. The conversation also highlights the importance of mentorship, trust in coaching, and cultivating a positive team culture that can make or break a player's career. Through Brandon's anecdotes, listeners get a behind-the-scenes look at the interplay of personal development and team dynamics.

From personal reflections on unfulfilled potential to valuable lessons learned outside the rink, this episode is a heartfelt exploration of the complexities of a hockey career. Brandon's post-hockey transition into mentoring the next generation illustrates how past experiences can transform into teaching moments. Whether you're an athlete, a fan, or someone intrigued by the nuanced world of sports, this episode offers a thoughtful perspective on what it truly takes to thrive in the pressure-cooker environment of professional hockey.

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Unlock the secrets of NHL draft evaluations with Elite Prospects' very own Cam Robinson. Have you ever wondered how the NHL’s 32 teams prioritize various player attributes, leading to wildly different draft lists? Cam breaks it all down, offering invaluable advice on how players can make themselves stand out in this highly competitive arena. From grassroots to professional ranks, discover how Elite Prospects serves as an essential resource for players, parents, and recruiters alike.

This episode reveals the importance of understanding and showcasing your strengths while minimizing weaknesses. We discuss the balance between individual skills and team play, and why effort, coachability, and progression over time are critical. Emotional maturity, leadership qualities, and the modern challenges faced by youth athletes are also examined, giving you a holistic understanding of player development. Whether you're a player, parent, or coach, this episode offers a treasure trove of insights into succeeding in the competitive world of hockey.

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Join us for an inside look into the life and career of Josh Doan, son of NHL legend Shane Doan, as he transforms from an overlooked prospect to a promising second-round NHL draft pick. Hear Josh's unique perspective on mastering the art of goal-scoring through relentless effort and the invaluable lessons learned from his father. Feel the excitement of his first NHL game, played in the very arena where he honed his skills in college.

Discover the gritty reality of striving for a spot in the NHL, from the rigorous training camps to the stark differences between the AHL and NHL lifestyles. Experience the camaraderie and mentorship that define a young player's journey, as Josh recounts the pivotal role of veteran players and the physical and emotional challenges faced in the AHL grind. This chapter sheds light on the determination and mental toughness required to transition from a late call-up to a key player.

As the conversation unfolds, we delve into the importance of cultivating team culture, building confidence, and embracing vulnerability. Learn how Josh navigates the pressures of draft years and the significance of supportive mentorship circles in fostering growth and resilience. We wrap up with uplifting stories of overcoming fear, the joy of creativity on the ice, and the balancing act between high performance and having fun. Tune in for a heartfelt testament to perseverance and the power of familial support in professional hockey.

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Ever wondered what it takes to turn early promise into collegiate success? Join us as we sit down with Luke Buss, a Wisconsin Badger hockey player, who candidly shares his remarkable journey from his formative years at Shattuck St. Mary's to topping the BCHL charts and ultimately playing for his dream school. Luke's story is a compelling blend of resilience, dedication, and the heartwarming importance of being a good teammate, offering deep insights for both aspiring players and their parents.

In our conversation, Luke dives into the often complex reality of NCAA recruitment and the emotional rollercoaster of moving from junior hockey to higher levels of play. He opens up about the highs and lows of his career, including a particularly tough season that tested his fortitude. You'll find out how a crucial mindset shift, spurred by his father's advice and the support of his mindset coach, helped him overcome obstacles. His transparency provides valuable lessons on building confidence, embracing challenges, and viewing setbacks as stepping stones to success.

Finally, we underscore the transformative power of a supportive community and authentic relationships with coaches. Hear Luke recount how maintaining consistency and preparation led to an outstanding season, and how focusing on his teammates' success often fueled his own. This episode celebrates Luke's achievements and unwavering commitment to his dreams, delivering a powerful narrative on the value of grit, resilience, and the profound impact of personal and team growth in the world of hockey. Whether you’re a player, a parent, or a fan, Luke’s journey is sure to inspire.

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In this episode of the Up My Hockey Podcast, host Jason Podollan welcomes a remarkable young talent, Zac Funk. At just 20 years old, Zac is already making waves in the hockey world. Last year, he had an outstanding season with the Prince George Cougars, boasting an impressive 68 games played, 67 goals, 56 assists, and a total of 123 points that earned him a free agent contract with The Washington Capitals.

Zac's journey in hockey is nothing short of inspiring. Before his time with Prince George, he played for the Calgary Hitmen, Kelowna Rockets, and Fraser Valley Thunderbirds. His early years saw him honing his skills at Yale, setting the stage for his future successes.

Join us as Zac shares insights into his phenomenal season, his development as a player, and what lies ahead in his promising career. Whether you're a fan, a player, or simply love the game, this episode is packed with valuable lessons and inspiring stories.

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Can coaches bounce back from controversy and lead a successful career? On this episode of Up My Hockey with Jason Podollan, we sit down with Bill Peters, the head coach of the Lethbridge Hurricanes, who opens up about his tumultuous journey in the world of hockey. We delve into the key moments that defined his career, including player evaluation, puck management, and strategic plays, all framed within the context of real game examples like the Edmonton-Vancouver series. Bill also bravely addresses the serious racism allegations that led to his departure from the Calgary Flames, and his path to redemption and return to the sport. This candid conversation shines a light on the necessity of open dialogue and learning from the past to foster growth in hockey.

Ever wondered how mentorship and relationship-building are pivotal in coaching? Attending a coaches conference parallel to the annual draft in Vancouver, we gather unique insights, especially from notable speeches like Travis Green's keynote on prioritizing people over winning. We also confront past controversies from 2008 that led to our guest's departure from the NHL in 2019, underscoring the importance of personal growth and education in diversity, equity, and inclusion. This discussion aims to reveal the continuous efforts to better oneself and become a more compassionate and effective coach.

How has coaching evolved in the Western Hockey League from the 1990s to today? We explore this transformation, discussing changes in playing style, officiating, and player mindset. We also tackle the complexities modern players face, from the influence of agents to parental pressures, and emphasize the need for communication and player involvement in decision-making. Additionally, we share strategies for maximizing individual and team potential, highlight the importance of situational awareness, and unveil upcoming changes in training camp structures designed to offer meaningful evaluations and development opportunities. This episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone passionate about hockey and its future.

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EP. 134 welcomes Darcy Hordichuk, a former NHL enforcer who brings a unique perspective to the Up My Hockey podcast. With decades of professional hockey experience, including stints with several NHL teams, Hordichuk offers listeners an insider's view of the game.

As a guest on the podcast, Hordichuk delves into various aspects of the sport, from  off-ice dynamics to parenting his own son along the journey of hopefully going to the NHL. He shares anecdotes from his playing days, providing valuable insights into the mindset of a professional athlete. 

What sets Hordichuk apart as a podcast guest is his ability to blend his wealth of hockey knowledge with a genuine passion for the sport. Whether discussing the strategies of the sport or the importance of team chemistry, he captivates listeners with his articulate commentary and engaging storytelling, making it a must-listen for hockey fans eager to deepen their understanding of the game.

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On this episode of Up My Hockey London Hoilett opens up about his adversities & challenges on & off the ice. A mindset client of host, Jason Podollan, the two discuss how they came to work together and how the relationship has supported London and career.

London, a dynamic 18-year-old winger hailing from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, electrifies the ice as a key player for the Vancouver Giants in the WHL. Hoilett's prowess lies in his off-puck mastery, utilizing his exceptional positioning, relentless motor, and lightning-fast possession maneuvers to leave opponents scrambling. Renowned for his tenacity, he never surrenders on a play, incessantly driving forward and closing down space with his relentless footwork.

A product of the esteemed RINK Winnipeg program, Hoilett honed his skills through U15, U16, and U18 levels, forging a reputation as a formidable force on the ice. With his blend of skill, determination, resilience and mindset, London has not found a chalenge yet, that he can't handle.

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In the 132rd episode of Up My Hockey Podcast, we're thrilled to host Glenn Carnegie, a distinguished skills coach and head coach for the JPHL. Hailing from Manitoba, Carnegie's journey saw him refine his craft with the Moose in the AHL before a remarkable 11-season stint with the NHL's Canucks. His philosophy? Excellence knows no bounds. Carnegie emphasizes the importance of maximizing potential wherever you play. With firsthand experience molding talents like Jonathan Toews, he underscores the power of curiosity in the pursuit of greatness. Join us as we delve into Carnegie's wealth of expertise and insights on hockey's relentless quest for improvement.

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Sven Butenschon is a highly accomplished hockey coach and former professional player with an impressive career spanning various hockey leagues. Born in Itzehoe, Germany, Butenschon's journey in the hockey world has left a lasting impact both as a player and as a coach.

As a player, Butenschon showcased his skills as a defenseman with a left-hand shot. His talent did not go unnoticed, leading to his selection by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the third round, 57th overall, during the 1994 NHL Entry Draft. This marked the beginning of his professional career, which would later see him playing in several prominent leagues.

Butenschon's playing career includes stints in the Western Hockey League (WHL), International Hockey League (IHL), National Hockey League (NHL), American Hockey League (AHL), and the Deutsche Eishockey League (DEL) in Germany. This diverse experience across different leagues attests to his versatility and adaptability as a player.

Transitioning from a successful playing career to coaching, Butenschon found himself at the helm of the University of British Columbia (UBC) hockey team. His coaching prowess reached new heights as he led the team to a remarkable achievement – winning the championships for the first time in over 50 years. This historic victory not only highlighted Butenschon's leadership abilities but also brought a sense of pride and accomplishment to the UBC hockey program.

Being named the U Sports Coach of the Year is a testament to Butenschon's dedication, strategic acumen, and the positive impact he has had on his players. His coaching philosophy, honed through years of experience in different hockey environments, played a crucial role in shaping a championship-winning team.