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Bert Henderson shares his remarkable hockey journey from BCHL champion to WHL captain to playing professionally in Japan, before becoming a coach and hockey dad with sons following in his footsteps.

• The importance of compete level in practice and how championship teams are built through daily intensity
• Transition from wanting to be an offensive defenseman to understanding his true strengths and value as a player
• Decision to play professionally in Japan despite NHL aspirations, leading to an eight-year international career
• Experience coaching in the BCHL as GM/head coach while balancing family responsibilities
• The emotional journey of watching his son play for his former WHL team, the Kelowna Rockets
• Coaching philosophy focusing on development, accountability and play away from the puck
• The inspiring story of his youngest son playing competitive hockey despite being legally blind with Stargardt's disease
• How today's game values different player types, with power forwards becoming increasingly rare but valuable

Whether you want to improve as a player, coach, or hockey parent, focus on compete level, character development, and maintaining joy for the game.

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Trevor Steinberg shares his hockey journey from first overall OHL draft pick to his current role as an amateur scout with the Seattle Kraken, offering insights into player development, mental fitness, and what NHL teams truly value in prospects. His perspective bridges the gap between old-school hockey toughness and modern developmental approaches, emphasizing character, resilience, and the importance of making good decisions.

• Seattle Kraken scout Trevor Steinberg was the first overall pick in his OHL draft year and later selected 15th overall in the 1984 NHL draft (the same year as Mario Lemieux)
• Knee injuries significantly impacted his NHL career trajectory, forcing him to adapt his playing style
• After retirement, he immediately transitioned to coaching, eventually spending 20 years as head coach at St. Mary's University where he won a national championship
• As an amateur scout, Steinberg emphasizes that the Kraken prioritize "good people" in their draft selections, not just skill
• The Kraken approach development with patience – "when we draft somebody, we're drafting that 18-year-old to play games at 24"
• Steinberg investigates prospects beyond formal interviews by speaking with billets, trainers, and community members
• Mental fitness and resilience are critical components of player development that often get overlooked
• Young players need to "write their own script" by making deliberate decisions that align with their hockey goals
• Even if players don't reach the NHL, the character, work ethic and standards developed through hockey create value that extends into all aspects of life

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Clark Wilm's journey from a small farming community in Saskatchewan to becoming an NHL player is a testament to resilience, hard work, and adaptability. He shares insights on player development, the importance of mental toughness, and the evolution of youth hockey systems, encouraging young athletes to find their unique identity and value on the ice.

• Journey from minor hockey to NHL through hard work and determination 
• Importance of adapting playstyle for success in NHL 
• Influence of coaching in developing skills and mindset 
• Insights on the competitive landscape of youth hockey 
• The need for players to understand their identity and value in teams

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This episode invites listeners to explore the intricate dance between mindset and personal development in sports. We engage in a thought-provoking conversation with mental performance coach Vinnie Maltz on how athletes can cultivate a growth mindset, embrace the mundane, and develop their unique operating manuals for success. 

• The importance of individual processes in player development 
• Developing a personal operating manual for sports 
• The 'Quadruple A' framework: Acceptance, Awareness, Accountability, Adaptability 
• Redefining mental toughness and pressure as a privilege 
• The necessity of consistent practice of basic skills 
• Encouraging open communication between players and coaches 
• The significance of self-awareness in skill development 
• The value of understanding one's strengths and weaknesses 
• Cultivating the farmer's mentality for long-term success 

If you're intrigued to learn how to amplify your performance through mindset and personal growth, don't miss this episode!

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This episode features Andrew Milne, head coach and general manager of the Canmore Eagles, who shares insights on the importance of work ethic, teamwork, and personal growth in hockey. He discusses the changing landscape of junior hockey and emphasizes the values of integrity and character development.

• The significance of work ethic and self-assessment
• Honesty and integrity in player development
• The evolving nature of junior hockey recruitment
• Teamwork and individual contributions to success
• The role of community in nurturing hockey talent
• Celebrating engagement through events like Hockey Day in Canada

If you're passionate about hockey and aspire to develop not just as an athlete but as a person, tune in to Andrew's invaluable perspectives on achieving success.

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Max Plante shares his inspiring journey from early childhood hockey experiences through the challenges and triumphs of competing internationally. From overcoming a broken wrist to winning a gold medal with Team USA, he discusses the lessons learned through adversity and the vital support of his family as he continues his hockey career at Minnesota Duluth. 

• Explores the significant influence of the Plante
 family legacy on Max's career 
• Discusses Max's experience in the National Team Development Program 
• Describes the pivotal challenges faced, including injury and disappointment 
• Highlights the emotional journey leading up to the World Junior Championship 
• Reflects on the importance of teamwork and resilience in competitive sports 
• Shares insights on the transition to college hockey at Minnesota Duluth

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Duncan Keith reflects on his unique journey from being an undersized, undrafted player to becoming a three-time Stanley Cup champion, Conn Smythe winner, and two-time Norris Trophy winner. He emphasizes the importance of belief, adaptability, coaching, and teamwork in shaping one's career and legacy.

• The power of belief in oneself 
• Overcoming the odds as an undersized player 
• The pivotal role of coaching in player development 
• Transitioning from junior hockey to professional levels 
• The significance of teamwork and friendships in hockey 
• The evolution of playstyle and adaptability throughout a career 
• Celebrating collective success over individual accolades 

These show notes provide insight into Duncan's impressive story while also delivering impactful lessons for aspiring athletes.

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In this episode, Scott Niedermeyer shares his transformative journey from junior hockey to becoming a Hall of Fame defenseman. He reflects on the crucial lessons learned through adversity, the importance of teamwork, and the development of confidence in navigating the challenges of competitive hockey. 

• Insights on the transition to junior hockey at a young age 
• Overcoming adversity and finding success in team dynamics 
• Learning from the demanding coaching style of Jacques Lemaire 
• Embracing mistakes as growth opportunities 
• The significance of enjoying the game and fostering passion 
• Confidence fluctuates and is cultivated through experience 

Join us to learn about the essence of being a valuable teammate and the lifelong lessons embedded in the sport of hockey.

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This episode with Katrina German emphasizes the importance of managing one's online identity as a young athlete in today's digital landscape. We discuss strategies to combat online bullying, the mental health implications of social media, and the responsibility athletes have to maintain a positive digital presence.

• Importance of digital identity for athletes 
• Risks associated with social media and online presence 
• Mental health challenges linked to social media use 
• Strategies for dealing with online bullying 
• Awareness of the long-term consequences of digital footprints 
• Building resilience and confidence in digital interactions 
• Encouraging responsible online behavior among athletes 
• Tools and techniques for managing online content 
• Promoting positive digital citizenship in sports 
• Call to action: Reflect on your online presence and make conscious decisions regarding digital interactions.

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Join us for a captivating conversation with Topher Scott, co-host of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, as we delve into the essence of leadership in youth hockey. Discover how actions speak louder than words and why authenticity and self-awareness are game-changers for young athletes. Topher shares his personal journey as an undersized player who defied the odds to lead at the USHL and NCAA levels, providing invaluable insights for players and parents facing similar challenges. His story is a testament to the power of resilience and embracing one's true self, both on and off the ice.

Through engaging anecdotes and thoughtful discussions, we tackle the nuances of physical development in hockey and the unique advantages late maturers can bring to the game. Learn why scouts and coaches should look beyond physical attributes to appreciate a player's understanding of the game and competitive spirit. Embrace the underdog mentality as a catalyst for personal growth, nurturing resilience and mental toughness in young athletes. Our conversation highlights the importance of fostering a supportive environment in youth sports to inspire a growth mindset and long-term success.

Explore the transformative impact of authenticity in leadership roles, as Topher reflects on his own experiences at Cornell. We discuss how embracing one's true nature can lead to a more cohesive and motivated team environment, emphasizing the value of self-reflection and understanding one's identity. With stories of perseverance and the celebration of team success, this episode offers a comprehensive look at how personal growth and authenticity drive excellence in hockey and beyond. Whether you're a player, parent, or coach, this episode is packed with insights to inspire the leaders of tomorrow.