Quinnipiac University | Calgary Flames

In this episode, we sit down with Ethan Wyttenbach, a young player whose journey is defined by perseverance, dedication, and an unrelenting hunger to be the best. Though still early in his career, Ethan’s mindset is far beyond his years—rooted in discipline, sacrifice, and a deep understanding of the sacrifices and preparation required to reach the next level.

From a standout foundation with the Long Island Gulls to competing in the United States Hockey League, Ethan continued to elevate his game. While playing with the Sioux Falls Stampede, he became the first-ever recipient of the Gaudreau Award, recognizing his character, leadership, and impact both on and off the ice.

Now at Quinnipiac University and drafted by the Calgary Flames, Ethan’s story is a powerful example of what happens when preparation meets belief. This conversation dives into mindset, maturity, and the unseen work behind the results—proof that Ethan Wyttenbach is well beyond his years and only scratching the surface of what’s ahead.

CO-FOUNDER | THE O.T. SPORTS GROUP

John Kofi Osei-Tutu’s journey is built on belief, resilience, and proving the doubters wrong. From chasing the dream as a player, to earning his law degree, to ultimately answering his true calling as a sports agent, John’s path was anything but conventional.

As the Co-Founder of O.T. Sports Group, he’s helping redefine what it means to represent athletes—building more than careers, but a true family atmosphere rooted in trust, development, and long-term vision.

Fueled by dedication and relentless belief, OTSG now represents a growing roster of top prospects and professional athletes, expanding every day.

This episode dives into the mindset, sacrifices, and conviction it takes to bet on yourself—and build something bigger than the game.

For athletes and families seeking representation, mentorship, and a true support system, connect with O.T. Sports Group here:

https://otsportsgroup.com/contact-us/

DONATE TO " HAGENS' HELPERS" :

https://app.jointheglow.com/c/k9D7N5

" GRIT AND SWAGGER "

In this episode, we sit down with Cullen McCrate, a Fargo Force defenseman whose journey is built on grit, resilience, and undeniable swagger. Raised in Michigan, Cullen’s path to the next level was shaped by long hours, adversity, and an unshakable belief in himself, backed every step of the way by his family’s support.

From grinding through the junior hockey ranks to becoming a trusted presence on the blue line in Fargo, he earned everything through hard work and consistency.

Cullen opens up about overcoming setbacks, embracing the physical and mental side of the game, and what it truly meant to achieve a lifelong dream—earning the opportunity to sign and continue his hockey career at Michigan State University.

This is a story of great grit, strong swagger, and proving that when preparation meets belief, anything is possible.

Reporter | College Hockey Analyst | Podcast Host

In this powerful and honest conversation, we sit down with Jonny Lazarus to unpack a journey that goes far beyond the stat sheet. Jonny reflects on his accomplished Division I hockey career, sharing what it meant to compete at the highest collegiate level with University of Massachusetts Amherst and Mercyhurst University, and the discipline, sacrifice, and identity that come with chasing a lifelong dream.

The conversation takes a deeper turn as Jonny opens up about the difficult and often isolating transition into post-hockey life. He speaks candidly about losing the routine, the locker room, and the sense of purpose that defined him for so long—along with the mental battles, self-doubt, and adversity that followed. Rather than taking the easy path, Jonny paid his dues, embraced uncertainty, and committed to rebuilding himself from the ground up.

Through belief, consistency, and an unrelenting desire to grow, Jonny found his voice in hockey media—transforming lived experience into impact. Today, he uses his platform to tell real stories, connect players and fans, and push the conversation around identity, mental health, and life beyond the game. His journey is a reminder that success doesn’t always follow a straight line, and that resilience, humility, and community can turn struggle into purpose.

This is an episode every athlete—and anyone navigating change—can learn from.

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.

" 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.

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.

" 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.