

Grit and Growth
Prairie Hockey Academy
Grit & Growth dives into the journey of becoming life champions. This podcast is for athletes, coaches, parents, and anyone pursuing excellence—both in sport and in life. Join us as we uncover the experiences and expertise of our guests including professional athletes, sports psychologists, coaches, and more. (Formerly known as the Win All Day Every Day podcast).
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 24, 2023 • 54min
E.14 | Success or Bust - The Talent Myth | Guest: Dave King
In this episode, we are joined in the studio by the legendary hockey coach, Dave King.
- We discuss his keys to success in hockey and in life. - Dave takes us through a recap of his career from junior B hockey in Saskatchewan to the head coach of the Canadian Olympic team as well as the Calgary Flames, Columbus blue jackets, Montréal Canadiens, Phoenix coyotes, and his memorable time in Russia Dave has an exceptional message for young athletes today, reminding them that we are never too old to learn and that there’s a difference between decisions and choices in hockey and learning that will really determine how far you will go and that a team is made up of strong individuals who learn how to use their strengths and skills to serve each other.

Oct 17, 2023 • 56min
E.13 | Life of Impact with Lorne Molleken
Loren Molleken joins our hosts in studio today to discuss a lifetime of hockey. With over 600 wins in the Western Hockey League and stops in the NHL in San Jose, Pittsburgh and Chicago, Lorne talks about mentorship, character and his time as a coach at the Prairie Hockey Academy.
Takeaways:
1. 2nd chances
2. Character counts
3. Learning to listen to your kids

Oct 10, 2023 • 41min
E.12 | Fueling Champions Part 2 | Guest: Melissa Ieraci
Melissa Ieraci from Make Shifts Happen joins us again to talk more about optimal performance and how to fuel for success in season. We talk about Canada's team, the Toronto Blue Jays and Mel's part in the playoff run. Then dive into how to hack your own sport drink for your gamedays!
Three takeaways
1. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
2. What you eat today will impact you tomorrow
3. Sleep and recovery

Oct 3, 2023 • 59min
E.11 | Captain's Class | Guest: Dustin Friesen
Hear from Dustin Friesen as he talks about practical leadership in sport as well as his influences along the way from a small town Saskatchewan farm boy to a Captain in the German Elite League (DEL).
3 takeaways
1. Culture of Excellence
2. Coaching
3. Strength & Conditioning

Sep 26, 2023 • 42min
E.10 | Chase Coward - From Deep Adversity to NHL Camp
In this week's episode our hosts, Barret Kropf and Justin Simpkins are joined by two year PHA alumni, Chase Coward to discuss his journey over the last two years. From one of Canada's top Junior goalies, on the verge of playing World Jr's, to having to hang up his skates and pick up a clipboard, Chase details his experience with adversity and the determination it took to face double hip surgery on his comeback to the Minnesota Wild NHL Camp. Chase talks about his time at PHA being instrumental in giving him the tools he needed to succeed, as well as mentors in his life.
Takeaways:
- High Standards require Good Relationships
- Mindset of excellence
- It's never too young to be a mentor

Sep 21, 2023 • 45min
EP.9 | How It All Began
Cohosts Barret Kropf and Justin Simpkins talk about the genesis of PHA, the start of season 7 and the philosophy behind your focal point.
Three takeaways: 1. Leaders take responsibility2. Growth Zone3. Know your focal point

Sep 13, 2023 • 39min
EP.8 | Keys to success by the National Jr A Coach of the Year | Brayden Klimosko
"Your body language and your compete level will open doors or slam them shut"
1. Back to back to back Coach of the Year
2. Advice for young coaches - "Be prepared, keep it simple and enjoy the process"
3. The importance of body language in athletes

Sep 5, 2023 • 57min
EP.7 | Scott Barney | Don't Expect Them To Know
Humboldt Broncos, Head Coach Scott Barney talks about his journey from minor hockey to the NHL and around the world. His hockey journey shaped him to be a leader and he is now leading young men in a culture of excellence in the city of Humboldt.
Three takeaways1. Practice Habits needed for the next level2. Advice for young coaches3. Tryout camp expectations

Aug 28, 2023 • 1h 3min
EP.6 | Winning the Stanley Cup | Bob Lowes
Winning the Stanley Cup was all about a culture of excellence! Bob Lowes of the Vegas Golden Knights talks about creating a culture of excellence at every level... from his days as Captain of Regina Pats to hoisting the Cup, Bob delivers a message that character matters!

Aug 21, 2023 • 1h 5min
EP.5 | Training McDavid & Bedard with High Performance Director Adrian Valaca
High Performance Director for Connor Mcdavid and Connor Bedard - Adrian Valaca - joins us to talk about the level of excellence needed to take your performance to the next level.


