Up My Hockey with Jason Podollan

Send us Fan Mail We talk with Jared Allen about what actually builds a strong hockey player, and why the modern chase for status can quietly crush competition, creativity, and confidence. We also trace Jared’s path from top prospect to World Juniors to pro hockey, using injuries and setbacks as the lens for mindset, identity, and long-term development.  • Minor hockey becoming a business and what...

Send us Fan Mail In this powerful episode of the Up My Hockey Podcast, Jason Podollan sits down with 18‑year‑old Jackson Drum, a former CDA (Coeur d’Alene Hockey Academy) player whose life changed in an instant after a devastating on-ice collision left him with a C1–C2 “Christopher Reeve” spinal cord injury. Jackson shares his journey from being a late-start, underestimated hockey kid in Minnesota...

Send us Fan Mail We sit down with Nick Kypreos to trace a path from a career-ending concussion to a 25-year run in broadcasting, unpacking what resilience looks like when you feel unready and afraid. Along the way we debate Canada’s modern hockey identity, Olympic roster choices, and why competitive edge still wins in the spring. • resilience after a concussion and job loss • early broadcast failu...

Send us Fan Mail We dig into the craft of pro scouting with Mike Gensel, from how Utah builds a contender to why second effort and playoff habits separate prospects from producers. Jake Guentzel’s evolution from pass-first center to elite net-front finisher becomes a blueprint for players, coaches and parents. • pro vs amateur scouting roles and objectives • trade valuation, cap pressure and fair-...

Send us Fan Mail We unpack how prospects actually turn pro with Chicago Blackhawks development coach Andy Delmore. Trust, wall play, role clarity, and coachability anchor a candid look at modern NHL demands and how small habits unlock big careers. • building trust so hard truths land • identifying two to three core habits per player • wall play mechanics and pre-scan timing • using NHL comparables...

Send us Fan Mail We break down how Maryland built a winning NAHL culture, why communication beats perfect systems, and what actually gets players recruited and promoted. Clint shares candid views on parents, leadership, roles, and the real skills that translate to NCAA hockey. • defining the NAHL pathway and USHL movement • player-led culture, standards, and leadership habits • practice design, vi...

Send us Fan Mail A candid talk with WHL scoring leader JP Hurlbert on why fun, authenticity, and steady habits beat hype in a draft year. From Texas roots and USNTDP grind to choosing Kamloops under the new CHL rule, he lays out a practical blueprint for growth and leadership. • early WHL road life as culture builder • USNTDP selection and training like a pro • choosing Kamloops after the CHL rule...

Send us Fan Mail We explore how winning culture gets built, why character can beat hype, and how new NCAA rules are changing the WHL. Matt Odette shares hard truths about scouting, tryouts, and what actually earns a roster spot and trust when games get tight. • valuing players who lift the team, not just rack up points • late birthdays and uneven growth shaping scouting calls • draft labels, runwa...

Send us Fan Mail We sit down with Victoria Royals captain Reggie Newman to unpack role clarity, leadership, and the modern edge in a league that still builds pros. From earning a spot at 16 to multiple NHL camps, he shows how physical, honest hockey and repeatable habits create real opportunity. • carving an identity as a 200‑foot power forward • the WHL’s shift in physicality and why heavy hockey...

Send us Fan Mail Dennis Maxwell, former NHL scout and 14-year pro, shares his journey from player to advisor and reveals the hidden factors that determine hockey success beyond just skill and statistics. We explore the psychological barriers that prevent players from reaching their potential and the importance of role acceptance, growth mindset, and authentic self-development. • Reflecting on care...

Send us Fan Mail Dylan Garand shares his journey from a young goalie in Victoria to becoming a New York Rangers prospect and AHL All-Star, revealing the mental techniques and training approaches that have elevated his game. • Moving to Delta Hockey Academy at age 14 marked the moment Dylan committed fully to becoming a hockey player • Understanding what works personally for mental preparation is c...

Send us Fan Mail Andrew Cristall shares his remarkable journey from an undersized prospect to WHL scoring leader and Washington Capitals draftee, revealing how criticism and doubt have fueled his ascent in hockey. • Weighing just over 100 pounds in his WHL draft year yet still selected eighth overall by Kelowna • Used exceptional hockey IQ and skill to overcome size limitations and perceived skati...

Send us Fan Mail Morgan Geekie shares his journey from small-town Manitoba to becoming a 33-goal scorer for the Boston Bruins, highlighting the importance of resilience and embracing your unique development path in professional hockey. • From being drafted 90th overall in the WHL to 67th in the NHL after being overlooked in his first year of eligibility • Started this season as a healthy scratch b...

Send us Fan Mail Mitch Wahl, a former second-round NHL draft pick and Memorial Cup champion, shares his 15-year professional journey from the Spokane Chiefs to European leagues. • California native who was drafted 4th overall to the WHL's Spokane Chiefs • Won the Memorial Cup championship in 2008, his NHL draft year • Selected 48th overall by the Calgary Flames in the 2008 NHL Draft • Represe...

Send us Fan Mail Jeremy Mylymok, former pro hockey player and current director of hockey at Coeur d'Alene Hockey Academy, shares his remarkable journey from a California skateboarder to Notre Dame Hounds student to professional hockey champion, revealing how character development and consistent effort create pathways to success in hockey and life. • Character is defined as "how you behav...

Send us Fan Mail Craig Geeky shares his philosophy on raising three talented hockey players, including NHL stars Morgan and Connor, through a multi-sport approach in a small town of just 150 people. • Creating a pathway to hockey success by having kids play multiple sports (badminton, curling, basketball, volleyball, track, baseball) • Building a strong foundation through accountability, self-asse...

Send us Fan Mail 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...

Send us Fan Mail 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, resilienc...

Send us Fan Mail 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 hock...

Send us Fan Mail 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 dev...

Send us Fan Mail 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...

Send us Fan Mail 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 significa...

Send us Fan Mail 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 pla...

Send us Fan Mail 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 adve...

Send us Fan Mail 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 a...