Never Far from Home Ep. 297 - "I write to live 1,000 lives"
SC Megale joined the show for a wonderful take on life. We dive into stories about her brief, but poignant, memories on the ice, and how so much of her love of adventure, sports, and everything in between, stemmed from her family. She tells of the schooling she has pursued, and the tales she has written herself. And of course, we dive into one of her works: “Hockey’s Hidden Gods.” This is a book about the 2002 US sled hockey team, and their ability to convert gold on the biggest stage. This coming at a time when sled hockey was losing funding. SC dives into her experiences while writing the story, and we explore life beyond as well. Enjoy!
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Never Far from Home Ep. 296 - Total Female Hockey (Pt. 1)
Kim McCullough was kind enough to spend an evening regaling me with a part of her tale, and we hope to link up again soon to finsh what we started. We dive into her upbringing in the Toronto area, and how she was a multi-sport athlete. Eventually, when the timing lined up, she found hockey and never looked back. Her passion to push herself catapulted her through a D1 experience at Dartmouth, then into a pro career for a few years. We touch on coaches who had an impact, her lessons she learned at different points through her career, and we tease a great story at the end that will make you want to listen when we link up again for part two… Enjoy!
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Never Far from Home Ep. 295 - Fully Consumed
Kelly Damphousse joins the show and immediately I knew our allotted time would not be enough. We dive into his history within the game of hockey, and he tells of how a young boy fell in love with the game whole-heartedly. That vey same young boy grew into a young man, and we talk about some finer points of life, including facing the decision to put aside his passion for something even greater: love. I feel lucky to have had Dr. Damphousse on the show, and his tales are sure to inspire. Enjoy!!
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Never Far from Home Ep. 294 - Hockey Unlimited
Steven Barnes talks about how he first came to fall in love with hockey, as a teenager on a Canadian trip, but expresses how it took a few more years until he was able to come into playing more regularly. He found himself finally at the helm of a hockey career when he was in his twenties, and quickly found himself staring at the barriers to entry that are faced by so many. He addressed it by the best means he could, by starting a non-profit. We dive into the stories of how he began Hockey Unlimited, and what he is looking to grow it into in the coming seasons. Of course, we dive into personal tales as well. Enjoy!
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Never Far from Home Ep. 293 - Skate Free Charlie
On Never Far from Home today, Jeff and Erika Boike. This was a special show. We dive into a little storytelling with regards to how this husband and wife met, and how each of them first found hockey. Without much hesitation we dive into family. The two had three sons: Drew, Charlie, and Lewis. The family was taxed with one of the hardest hands to be dealt, and lost their son Charlie when he was 17. We talk about how they dealt with the loss, as a unit, and individually. I was lucky to have them open up on a lot of things, and we took a wonderful stroll through memories laced with love. This was a heavy episode, littered with brightness. Enjoy.
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Never Far from Home Ep. 292 - Working in hockey
Nick Bowins joined the show and we were able to go through a great range of tales. He got involved with the game at a young age, and we talk about what aspects of hockey he fell in love with over the years. Much of what he loved spurred him into creating “Working in hockey”, a social media and online presence that sends out every posted hockey job each week. His foundation was the love of the game, built upon by some social media work he did in his early twenties. Of course, we dive into some storytelling as well throughout the time! Enjoy another great episode.
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Never Far from Home Ep. 291 - The water filled tennis ball
We step back in to the Minnesota Chronicles 2.0 for the sixth installment. Thomas Lorincz talks about his youth, growing up in Slovakia. We touch on family, sport, and how these things helped shape him into the man he is. He talks about how he ended up in Minnesota, and what it was like to really dive into ice hockey, finding the love of playing the game at, what some would call, “an older age”. Now a father, Thomas talks about how his mindset has shifted somewhat, and what it would mean to have either of his kids play hockey. Spoiler alert, he has the right idea here (let them decide what they love). Enjoy the tales of a good man who had some great hockey heroes to lean into, including a couple Marian’s, one of which captivated the youthful Thomas with his style of play.
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Never Far from Home Ep. 290 - A loving family and a sparked passion
We step away from the Minnesota Chronicles 2.0 for another episode after NFFH had the pleasure of representing in a tournament in Denver. Spencer Tscherpel speaks about a number of things, from his spark of hockey from a young age, to his growth in the passion of puck through his competitive days, and how he always remained connected, even when his competitive days were done. We speak on family, and how impactful his father and mother were. Then we talk of the shift, and how he became a father himself, and has loved coaching in a new way. Enjoy the many tales of a man who comes from a great place, a great family, and has continued to push forward with solid moral standing.
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Never Far from Home Ep. 289 - Summit Custom Sticks
We step away from the Minnesota Chronicles 2.0 for a few episodes after NFFH had the pleasure of representing in a tournament in Denver. Brad is the first guest from this tourney, and also the reason for us being there, as he captained a team. We talk about his hockey journey, from the Colorado Springs native finding the love of the sport, through his time playing some AA and AAA in his teens, up through his college years. Brad has also participated as a coach, a GM, and now, as a hockey brand business owner with Summit Custom Sticks. Enjoy the many tales he shares on another great episode!
https://summitcustomsticks.com/
Never Far from Home Ep. 288 - A coaches impact
Mike Randolph joined the podcast as the fifth guest from the Minnesota Chronicles: 2.0. We head through a timeline that includes growing up in a large family, falling in love with the game of hockey, and playing competitively into his early twenties. Mike then talked about how he came into coaching and how important it was that his support staff, mostly his wife, was on board with his passion. With her support, and so many others, he has continued to coach hockey for many decades, helping shape future generations. Enjoy a wonderful episode!
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Never Far from Home Ep. 287 - The brown shopping bag
Dave Almquist joined the podcast as the fourth guest from the Minnesota Chronicles: 2.0. We dive into his tales of growing up in the Duluth area. He speaks of a poignant memory of being left on the sledding hill, and how that led him to hockey. We talk of family, both siblings and parents, and also the family you make in the locker rooms. Dave found success on the ice over the years, ended up playing some collegiate hockey, and has moved into new roles as he has aged and become a father himself. It would not be a podcast with Dave if we didn’t talk on Team Tucker, and we delve into that story as well. Enjoy another wonderful episode!
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Never Far from Home Ep. 286 - We are more alike then we are different
Alex Frecon joined the podcast as the third guest from the Minnesota Chronicles: 2.0. The stories he shares stem beyond the game we love, and the rink community we are all lucky to be a part of. He shares his experience inside the game, never finding his own love for it at an early age. Alex then speaks of a certain friend who brought him back to hockey around his junior year of high school, and how he has not stopped skating since. His travels were outside the norm of the Minnesota culture of hockey, but very personalized to his own family, a mixed bag consisting of a French father and an American mother. The roots he sowed in his own cultural experiences led him to a road that few have taken. He has skated in North Korea, Turkmenistan, Egypt, and other great places around the world. We dive into tales of the hockey, of course, but more so, the human experience he got from his travels. Enjoy a special one.
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Never Far from Home Ep. 285 - You cannot be what you cannot see
Emily West joined the podcast as the second guest from the Minnesota Chronicles: 2.0. We took a trip all around her rink life. She was born into it, with a brother nine years older who loved the game, and she found herself chasing him around wanting to be like him. We go through her time in Colorado Springs as a youth player, finding her own love for the game. Her reflection on her career comes through in many ways, but most notable was her appreciation for her coaches and mentors who helped push her forward. We dive into some of her time at University of Minnesota, capped off by a National Championship. We then get into her life, post-competitive hockey, and how that led to another National Championship as a coach at Ohio State. Enjoy a wonderful collection of tales, and appreciation.
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Never Far from Home Ep. 284 - Learning, Loving, and Fostering Growth
Emma Sobieck joined the podcast as the first guest from the Minnesota Chronicles: 2.0. We dive into her stories, including growing up playing at the same rink the Mighty Ducks was shot at. SAhe talks about how certain coaches helped shape her intensity for the game, and eventually how she found herself behind the bench as well. Enjoy the many tales she shares, of family, love for the game, love for food, and of course, community. We dive into that very community and how she fostered it in Germany before landing herself a job back in MN. Enjoy!
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Never Far from Home Ep. 283 - The Kodiaks
The Oak Creek Kodiaks came on a very special episode. Coaches Chris Hagen (Episode 65), and Kyle Pastor (Episode 10) approached me about the idea of highlighting their team. They expressed how this squad had captured all the good the game of hockey has to offer, and wanted to share some of their experiences. It was a novelty, for Never Far from Home, but we endeavored to highlight the kids and their experiences the best we could. Enjoy the quick dives into the 10U Oak Creek Kodiak team members, and the reflection on the season by the coaching staff!
Never Far from Home Ep. 282 - A Bronco's Energy
Graysen Cameron joined the show from Canada, and we wasted no time in jumping right to his timeline within the game. He was born into it, with a brother who was 10 years his elder who loved to play, but Graysen soon found his own passion for the game. We talk family dynamics, and how much his parents and siblings mean to the young man. We touch on his developing years, and some challenges that helped shape him. And we dive into his story within the tragedy of the Humboldt Broncos, and how he managed to come out of the incident as a better version of himself. We end up chatting about his next steps he has taken, and where his life has led him. Enjoy!
Never Far from Home Ep. 281 - The Low-Down
Lowen Epstein came on the show to talk about his odd connection to the rink. We delve deep into his rich love of sport, and the many ways he has connected to different games. Lowen played sports as a youth, graduated to broadcaster, and has always been a fan of a wide array of sporting worlds. Enjoy some tales wrapped in victories and celebrations, as well as some tribulations that led to growth. We also do touch on his new show starting soon on a local radio channel in the Yampa Valley!
Never Far from Home Ep. 280 - Stepping out of the shadow
Sara McClanahan joined the podcast, and we talk about her time growing up in Minnesota, falling in love with the game at different times, and the reasons that led her to find such a passion for hockey. She speaks to finding her own path within the game, and how she handled it over the many different years, in different roles. We go through her whole competitive youth hockey days, through college, and into her first tastes of coaching, within hockey and soccer. Enjoy the many tales!
Never Far from Home Ep. 279 - Late to the rink
On Never Far from Home today: Kelli Standekar! Kelli came on to the podcast, and shared about a wonderful timeline. Her stories span her youth where she found herself involved in numerous sports and activities, to her teenage years when she finally found the rink. We dive into some competition, and round it all out talking about her coaching arc as well. Enjoy the many tales she shares!
Never Far from Home Ep. 278 - Chasing the love of the game
Gabe Levin shares tales from his early days in southern California, falling in love with the game, to his time with DU. In between, there are some marvelous lessons he learned, from patience, to self-belief, to not listening to the doubters. Gabe shares some stories along the way, and talks about a parental duo that simply let him play the game he loved, with no extra pressure to succeed. Enjoy his tales!
Never Far from Home Ep. 277 - Stay Present
Jackie Wilson came on the podcast and shared stories from her playing days through her present situation, as an official. We explore her time within the game in different capacities, and how that has translated to life as well. She expresses her sentiments on staying within the moment, while continuing to chase goals and dreams. I hope you enjoy her many shared tales!
Never Far from Home Ep. 276 - St. Lawrence "D1"
Gib Mitchell came on the podcast and shared some wonderful tales. From growing up in New York, playing youth in numerous rinks, and eventually settling on secondary school in St. Lawrence. We hear tales of travel to Europe for a semester abroad, he shares about his time as a D1 athlete (a funny tale about playing for the women’s team), and we finally come to how it was he found himself in Steamboat Springs. Enjoy the many fantastic tales!
Never Far from Home Ep. 275 - The Dirty Alberty
Adam Albert Joined the show after a few months of hearing all about it at work. He shares some funny tales from his years playing hockey, touching on many aspects of the game that will stay with him the rest of his life. We also get into a story on a very serious injury he had, and how he managed to bounce back from it. Enjoy the tales of an up and coming fireman, and a young man with a rich hockey history.
Never Far from Home Ep. 274 - The Sign Man
Dave Leonardi came on the show and shared some incredible stories. You may know him by a different name: The Sign Man. He has been a season ticket member of the Philadelphia Flyers since 1972-73, and has become an icon of sorts, within the game. That stems even to the Great One himself, who Dave shares a great story on. His biggest fan has been his mother, who would share with everyone who would listen that “My son is The Sign Man”. Enjoy some wonderful tales!
Never Far from Home Ep. 273 - A Coach from Youth
Mikey Spencer joined the show after the two of us became acquainted through Team Tucker. We explore his timeline which includes youth hockey in Minnesota through his senior year of high school, to his quick transition into the coaching world. Mikey shares great stories about some of his favorite, and most influential, figures in the hockey world. Enjoy another great episode!
Never Far from Home Ep. 272 - The Handshake Lines
Mike "Doc" Emrick joins the show for round two, and does not disappoint! We delve into some more tales, and explore some of the impactful calls “Doc” has been involved with. Being playoff time, we dive into some of his favorite pieces of the game, and much of it stems from this time of year. Enjoy another fantastic stretch of time with Mr. Emrick!
Never Far from Home Ep. 271 - Team Tucker
Dana Anderson-Helstrom is the tenth guest in the “Minnesota Chronicles”, a special series from my time in Minnesota for the Boys State High School Tourney. We connected on a phone call, and Dana shared some an incredibly emotional story about her journey with childhood cancer, as her son had been diagnosed. Dana shares the powerful tales of a fantastic spirit in her son, Tucker. And she also regales me with the difficulties, and ensuing strength, of Tucker’s two younger sister’s who had to face losing their brother at far too young an age. We cover a vast array of topics regarding her family, and there is quite a bit of sadness, followed by strength, and eventually a great way to remember her boy in a non-profit: Team Tucker (https://playlaughlove.org/). Enjoy an episode that may take a couple intermissions to get through.
Never Far from Home Ep. 270 - IIHF Down Under
Beth Bowshall joins us from Australia. We talk about how she came to fall in love with hockey and the rink in general in an area that does not have a robust community known for it. She regales us with tales of competitive days, with some stories spanning different continents, and eventually we land in the realm of reffing. She tells of how she chose to ref, and we dive into a few stories from her career so far in the IIHF ranks as an official. Enjoy!
Never Far from Home Ep. 269 - Motivational Toaster Strudel
Corey Brenner is the ninth guest in the “Minnesota Chronicles”, a special series from my time in Minnesota for the Boys State High School Tourney. He is an entrepreneur, and founder of the goalie guru (https://www.getgoalieguru.com/). We connected on a phone call, and immediately, the tone of the recording was set with some wonderful discussion the pre-dated my opening questions. Corey and I were set up for success from the moment I hit the record button. Our talk covers Avatar: The Last Airbender, Corey’s personal involvement within the competitive side of the game of hockey, his time spent away from the game, and how he ended up coming “home”. Enjoy a wide-ranging talk that stems more into philosophy than many previous episodes.
Never Far from Home Ep. 268 - Becoming Elite
Erik Westrum is the eighth guest in the “Minnesota Chronicles”, a special series from my time in Minnesota for the Boys State High School Tourney. We connected on a phone call, and dove head first into a timeline riddled with wonderful anecdotes, including a youth experience that led to passion, passion that led to college hockey, and eventually, a pro career including stints in the NHL and AHL. Erik just released a book (Get your copy here: https://erikwestrumbook.com/), and we are lucky enough to discuss the process that went into writing it. I have felt so lucky to share some amazing tales with people I met in Minnesota, and Erik is no different. I hope you enjoy his stories as much as I did!
Never Far from Home Ep. 267 - Edina Roots 1
Paul Ranheim is the seventh guest in the “Minnesota Chronicles”, a special series from my time in Minnesota for the Boys State High School Tourney. We connected on a phone call, and I caught him off-guard with the conversational, long-form interview. Due to time restraints, we keep this first episode together short. That said, we dive into his timeline, including a state championship run with the polarizing Edina squad. Love them or hate them, there is a rich history of success. We explore his time within the game, find a few stories as well, and there is promise of a second piece that will dive further in depth to more tales, and more experiences once his lengthy playing career wrapped up. Enjoy the first of two talks with Paul!
Never Far from Home Ep. 266 - Uptown Funk
Kalli Funk is the sixth guest in the “Minnesota Chronicles”, a special series from my time in Minnesota for the Boys State High School Tourney. Kalli was kind enough to find some time to meet up, after we had a very brief introduction the Monday I got in. She is playing on the Women’s USA Bandy team, and I had attended the practice. We sat down in the Minnesota Wild offices, and she regaled me with tales of her life growing up around the rink. Kalli does a fantastic job articulating a captivating story that has kept her involved in the game, even today. She played all the way through college, then found bandy, and has since also entertained jobs that keep her involved with the rink community as well. Enjoy!
Never Far from Home Ep. 265 - In a Father's Footsteps
Derek Shepherd is the fifth guest in the “Minnesota Chronicles”, a special series from my time in Minnesota for the Boys State High School Tourney. We got into his timeline within the rink, from his beginning as a player through his time as an official. As is the case in so many of these episodes, I tried to find the balance between timeline exploration, and storytelling. Derek has a history of reffing with his father being a manager of officials at the collegiate level. Derek assumed the role down the line as well, until life drove him to step away. I have been humbled by the many tales I have been lucky enough to share, and Derek’s stories are no different. Enjoy!
Never Far from Home Ep. 264 - The Trailblazer
Delaney Middlebrook is the fourth guest in the “Minnesota Chronicles”, a special series from my time in Minnesota for the Boys State High School Tourney. Delaney shared an incredible story, filled with so much challenge, so many tales of overcoming those difficulties, and she shares how she has become the wonderful human I was able to meet for a bit. From asking to play hockey at 4, and making a promise to never quit to her father (Chris Middlebrook), to learning about her Long QT syndrome, to playing six years of high school hockey. She was not done there. Delaney played four years of D1 hockey at two different schools, and then followed that up with some pro experience in Europe. Enjoy!
Never Far from Home Ep. 263 - The Torpy-doh
Kenzie Torpy is the third guest in the “Minnesota Chronicles”, a special series from my time in Minnesota for the Boys State High School Tourney. Kenzie and I met at White Bear Lake Arena to sit down for our chat, and we explore a timeline riddled with fun stories, and culminating in a college career at St. Thomas. With positive strides taken, year over year, we also find a challenging moment, in her final series as a colligate athlete, and we discuss how she was able to overcome the adversity. Enjoy the many tales!
Never Far from Home Ep. 262 - Player, Coach, Lawyer, Author
Chris Middlebrook is the second guest in the “Minnesota Chronicles”, a special series from my time in Minnesota for the Boys State High School Tourney. Chris and I dive into a fascinating timeline that includes hockey at the collegiate level, and a lengthy history with bandy. He also has a few years of coaching we get into. The big draw for Chris was his book about his daughter, Delaney: “The Girl Who Played Hockey”. We explore the story of the trailblazer, and the positive impact the tale had on the Middlebrook family, as well as on the sporting world.
Never Far from Home Ep. 261 - The Minnesota Vagabond
Tom Peart is the first guest in the “Minnesota Chronicles”, a special series from my time in Minnesota for the Boys State High School Tourney. Tom goes through a timeline that is filled with hockey, from coming to the sport a bit late at 12-13, and finding himself in love with the goalie position, to his college playing days (post-Marines), through his many years as a coach. I hope you enjoy his story telling as much as I did!
Never Far from Home Ep. 260 - Born to be a goalie
Kassidy Sauve came on and we go into her timeline of involvement, as we do on the show. Hers is a Canadian story. She was almost born with skates on, and was playing from 4 years old. She quickly found herself loving the crease, and everything that came with being a goalie. Her career is still going strong, today, but she does an excellent job moving through the years that led her to pro hockey. From youth time in Montreal and Toronto, to Ohio State, to Clarkson, and finally, to Finland. Enjoy her many tales!
Never Far from Home Ep. 259 - Big Cardio
Amanda Provan was kind enough to join the show, and we explore her passion for the game. She began playing at 12, but had loved it since her youth. The path of life was such that she found blind hockey after a few years playing sighted, and we talk on what the transition was like. She quickly found herself engrossed with the community of Blind Hockey in Canada, and is the first woman to win gold with the Canadian National team. Enjoy her tales!
Never Far from Home Ep. 258 - Big Edge-work Guy
Kenny Simmons was the third live guest of Never Far from Home. We sat down at West End Sports Grill, and had a great chat about his timeline within the game of hockey, and just how it was a Michigan boy ended up in Steamboat Springs. I had multiple friends and family members reach out with questions before the show, and we get to those as well. Enjoy a fun chat with a good hockey guy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 257 - Minister of Defense
Tristan Lindberg comes on the show, and we explore a timeline that includes sighted hockey for a large chunk of time, including some time in juniors. Then, as things declined visually, he found himself back in the game with Canadian Blind Hockey. Enjoy the many tales Tristan shares, as we navigate rink stories, difficulties he has overcome, and of course, there is some off-ice exploration as well!
Never Far from Home Ep. 256 - Chicago Strong
Salmaan Chaudhri joined the podcast, and we were able to get into some of his timeline connected to the rink. We talk about one of my favorite things, community, and how the community of blind hockey has grown over the last few years. Salmaan shares his connection to the game, and within the exploration, we also find some good stories. Enjoy another wonderful guest!
Never Far from Home Ep. 255 - Somewhere beyond the S-E-A
Lee Becker and I have been pining to get together on a podcast for a while, and his stories do not disappoint. We explore a timeline that includes growing up in a hockey-rich household, finding a passion in the games nuances, regarding equipment, and eventually traveling overseas and finding the game in a whole new way. Lee has some incredible tales that we move through, but even more that will be shared when we connect for the second of this two-part story. Enjoy!
Never Far from Home Ep. 254 - exe-Kucy-ioner
Ryan Kucy and I dive into his hockey timelines, highlighted by his first few times skating, and eventually, finding blind hockey a little later in his teen years. After finding his community, the experiences he has had have been mostly wonderful. As you may have come to expect, we explore family, passion for a sport, and the ever important: community. Enjoy some wonderful tales from my friend, Ryan.
Never Far from Home Ep. 254 - exe-Kucy-ioner
Ryan Kucy and I dive into his hockey timelines, highlighted by his first few times skating, and eventually, finding blind hockey a little later in his teen years. After finding his community, the experiences he has had have been mostly wonderful. As you may have come to expect, we explore family, passion for a sport, and the ever important: community. Enjoy some wonderful tales from my friend, Ryan.
Never Far from Home Ep. 253 - Hockey and Skiing
Hannah Croonquist and I met up at the Howie Dome, and she regaled me with stories about falling in love with the game. Originally from Minnesota, she wasted little time in becoming involved with the community of the rink, and even now as a young adult, she realizes the special connections it has given her. We walk through her youth hockey, her family, and where she landed for college. And of course, we find out how she ended up in Colorado. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 252 - One of the Flock
Missy Segall came on the show and we wasted little time diving into the stories and timeline! Missy grew up just outside of Boston, and she fell in love with hockey at a young age. We explore how that love became a passion, and just how far the passion took her. While she is currently moving into a different role in life and hockey, this is another example of a wonderful person who will always stay connected to the game.
Never Far from Home Ep. 251 - Gear Junkie
Spencer Wayman was guest #2 live from West End Sports Grill! We had a great time going through his involvement within the game, from his youth days in Craig through his time in college where he had to make more of an effort to stay involved. We find the different reasons he continues to love the game, and what drives him to stay involved. Enjoy!
Never Far from Home Ep. 250 - My Friend, Doc
Mike "Doc" Emrick was welcomed to the show, and shared some great stories. We had limited time, but made the most of it, exploring some of the roots of his love for the game, examining the different meanings of family, touching on the late Peter McNab, and of course we dove into the senses as well. Enjoy the chat with my friend, Doc.
Never Far from Home Ep. 249 - Call Sign - "Boozer"
Dave Paolillo joins the show and we were able to explore many stories within his great life. He spent some years in New York, where he learned to love the game of hockey, then went to Florida, and ended up in the Air Force. The path was not that linear, and we take a deep dive into some fantastic, and at times incredibly challenging, career path. Enjoy my friends tales. I sure did.
Never Far from Home Ep. 248 - Hockey and Fishing
McKenna Hulslander joined the show, and shared wonderful stories about growing up in Montana. She talks about some of the challenges faced being in such a hockey remote environment. There was plenty of growth on the long drives, and plenty of tales that came from her time away from family. It all led her to college, and eventually overseas where she is currently tending net, professionally. Enjoy her many stories.
Never Far from Home Ep. 247 - A-Dater
Adrian Dater grew up in the Northeast, and found a draw to sports through his connection to some Boston TV. He was lucky enough to grow in the game with names like Orr. We explore his youth, college, and eventual move to Colorado. There, he happened into a decent time with an NHL franchise who moved to Denver in 96. We go into a lot of storytelling. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 246 - Hockey Pure
Brian Ripley was the first live show for Never Far from Home. We plan to have more in the future, and what those develop into may change, but it was a blast to host a small community event, and still tell some stories. Those included growing up in the Colorado Springs area, playing hockey through college, and finding coaching soon after. Enjoy the tales of a ranch hand.
Never Far from Home Ep. 245 - The Maccabiah Games
Sydney Bierwirth had some awesome tales to share, from growing up in the Detroit area, and falling in love with the game at the height of the Avalanche-Red Wing rivalry, to playing hockey in Israel. And the journey between. Enjoy her many stories, including the times she faced falling back in love with the game. Sydney has had a fantastic timeline, so far, with so much yet to come!
Never Far from Home Ep. 244 - Schrammer the Hammer
Dan Schramm and I sat down after a great lunch, and he shared many stories, from growing up in the Vail valley in a household already in love with hockey, to stepping away from the game for a piece of time, and finding it again with Blind Hockey. Inside of that, we also explore his passion for food, and we find a few rabbit trails that lead to good stories. Enjoy!
Never far from Home Ep. 243 - The Dented Puck
Drew Garza was an interesting story to listen to. He was sighted, and played hockey through his college years, then stepped away from the game for some time. He lost his vision in his late twenties, and as fate would have it, that was one of the things that got him back into the rink. We explore his timeline, and get into details from his youth, through his current escapade as a member of the blind hockey team for USA.
Never Far from Home Ep. 242 - The French Connection
Tristan Brooks was kind enough to join the show, and told some fantastic stories. We covered his youth, from Alabama to Oregon, to France. He shared tales of his childhood, and how he came to find the passion he still has for the game of hockey, eventually taking it to France’s highest level, playing professionally for multiple seasons. Enjoy a saga full of turns.
Never Far from Home Ep. 241 - Finding the game
Adam Young joined the show and we were able to explore his love of the game. From being a fan and enjoying the game on multiple stops around the country, to finding it in a playing capacity a little later in life. We get into some fantastic stories about how he started in sighted hockey, and then came to find blind hockey, and has worked his way into a USA jersey. Enjoy Adam’s many tales!
Never Far from Home Ep. 240 - Women's Hockey Life
Jaclyn Hawkins kindly came on the podcast and shared some fantastic tales. From a big career and life moment when heading to the GTA (Greater Toronto Area), to coaching, to European Pro hockey. We cover a broad range of topics, all focused on who Jaclyn is, and what she stands for. That, of course, includes large amounts of discussion focused on Women’s Hockey Life, and looking at the women’s game as a whole. Enjoy!
Never Far from Home Ep. 239 - Dawg Nation St. Louis
There was a special event on Never Far from Home today: a round table discussion with the Dawg Nation: St. Louis boys. Jared Schmierbach and Matt Heath joined the show to talk about the founding of the St. Louis chapter of Dawg Nation. We interject a few stories along the way, but it was great to hear about an up and coming piece of GIVING BACK! Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 238 - Grit and Grace
Justin Goldman did a fantastic job diving into stories as we explored his wild timeline, from a child playing hockey in Texas, through being an EBUG for the Colorado Avalanche. Enjoy the path that was not always straight for this goalie turned author. It was an absolute joy listening to the many varied tales he had to share.
Never Far from Home Ep. 238 - Grit and Grace
Justin Goldman did a fantastic job diving into stories as we explored his wild timeline, from a child playing hockey in Texas, through being an EBUG for the Colorado Avalanche. Enjoy the path that was not always straight for this goalie turned author. It was an absolute joy listening to the many varied tales he had to share.
Never Far from Home Ep. 237 - Southern Sleds
Declan Farmer joined the show and we get into his story. From finding the game of sled hockey around 8, all the way through his three gold medals to date with the U.S. at the Paralympic Games. His tale is a great one, filled with community, and finding a deeper and deeper love for the game. Enjoy!
Never Far from Home Ep. 236 - A Battle of the Mind
Sierra Natzke joined the podcast, and shared stories of falling in love with the game of hockey at a young age. She started in roller, and switched to ice. I tried my best to forgive her for being a goalie. We chatted about mental toughness, something she had to face multiple times through her career, which stemmed from youth hockey through college. Enjoy her tales, and my attempt to rekindle a passion that she has put aside for a small piece of time.
Never Far from Home Ep. 235 - 10 a.m. Whiskey's
Kelly Cook joined the show as one of the first people to have known about the idea of Never Far from Home. While she only started playing in the last few years, there has been a deep connection to hockey through her family. We explore some of her earlier stories of being a Red Wings fan, and also talk briefly on her time as a soccer player, and a Scottish Dancer. Enjoy the tales!
Never Far from Home Ep. 234 - The Penny Arcade
Brandi Kerns came on the podcast and we barely scratched the surface on this hockey life. We explore some of her timeline, there are plenty of laughs, and we even go off mic to a third friend who was listening to the interview. All told, enjoy what was a memorable experience for all involved. Perhaps we can find more stories to record down the line…
Never Far from Home Ep. 233 - Texas Hockey
Gary Russell joined the show, and while time kept us from going deep into some storytelling, we were able to explore his timeline of involvement within the community of the rink, and did get at least a few good tales in the show. He talks about his time playing, and then how it quickly translated to coaching when he wrapped up. Enjoy what is hopefully the first of a two part series with Gary!
Never Far from Home Ep. 232 - Wild, Wild West
Andy Hudson came on the podcast with a history of being on a few others. We were able to get into his start within the rink community, and discussed how it all evolved, especially concerning the officiating side of things. After a brief exploration of the timeline, we dove into some of his techniques that have grown the pool of officials in the St. Louis area. Enjoy another great story-laden episode.
Never Far from Home Ep. 231 - The New Hampshire Avs Fan
Pat Salvas joins the show and we have a good change of pace from the normal scene of Never Far from Home. While there is a timeline exploration, Pat and I are able to dive a little more into fandom, and specifically, his fandom of the Quebec Nordiques turned Stanley Cup winning Colorado Avalanche. All of this while living on the East Coast, and being surrounded by Bruins fans. Enjoy the many tales!
Never Far from Home Ep. 230 - The Couch GM
Jenna Hoffman joins the show and talks about her time playing hockey in the Colorado Select organization. Her biggest impacts were the friends she made along the way. As decisions loomed for college, she chose to pursue lacrosse, but the rink was never far from her heart. Enjoy the tales of yet another rink rat…
Never Far from Home Ep. 229 - Tales of a Traveler
Kendall Hanley talks about her hockey journey, one that has taken her all over the globe. She found the game, then after college, found reffing. It proved to be a great outlet to keep her locked in to the community, and also provided bountiful opportunities for travel, and gathering memories, along with friendships. Enjoy the tales of a traveler, woven together with the fabric of one of the best communities.
Never Far from Home Ep. 228 - A Different Path
Sydney Harris joined the show and spoke on her youth days growing up in Pueblo. It was there that she fostered a love for the game, and her journey since has taken her through numerous paths, including boys JR hockey in the RMJHL, and eventually leading to Elmira. We sat down in the first of a two interview set, and spoke to the hockey alone here, and I hope to have her back on to discuss the reffing side of the game, as she has ambitions of reffing in the Olympics some day. Enjoy!
Never Far from Home Ep. 227 - The Old Man
CJ came on the show as only the third guest that I grew up playing hockey with. That is always a special occasion for me, and hearing his tales, and connecting the dots, was a great experience for both of us. He tells of his early days in California, to his time in Omaha, and eventually, landing in Northwest Colorado. He regales about his Marine Corp service, and how he landed back in hockey as the old man. Enjoy!
Never Far from Home Ep. 226 - The First Few Years
Taylor Zion grew up in Texas, but was introduced to hockey at a young age. We explore what it meant to be a hockey player in a football-centric culture, and how that helped shape his youth. As is the case with travelers, things didn’t stay in one place long. He found himself in Maine for JR hockey, and in Chicago-land for college. Enjoy his many tales!
Never Far from Home Ep. 225 - Select Memories
Taylor Gross grew up in Colorado Springs, and regales us with stories from her days playing with the boys, all the way through some time with the Tigers girls program, and eventually speaks of her time with the Colorado Select. That was only the beginning. Taylor also talks about her college career, and how her post-college path has led her to where she is today, back in Colorado Springs, and back in hockey!
Never Far from Home Ep. 224 - Post
Jack Engdahl comes on the pod merely a week after meeting me. We share some experiences about Dawg Bowl 12, and what a top notch organization Dawg Nation Hockey Foundation is. From there we hop into his story more in depth. It includes overcoming tough years at multiple levels of hockey, and persevering to become a college hockey player. Enjoy his many tales, from the tough times, to the success’s.
Never Far from Home Ep. 223 - Barriers and Gatekeepers
Sam Schacter talks about growing up in the rink world. We delve into his family life, and the uniqueness of his siblings age range. He grew up playing from his first years, and has kept involved in the game in many capacities. His love of the sport and the rink has evolved, and we have a good talk about the future he hopes to navigate while knocking down barriers to entry. Enjoy a great chat!
Never Far from Home Ep. 222 - Hard Pass
Jade Bettine joined the show, and regaled us with the tales of an Arizona girl who turned into a hockey player in college. She talks about finding the community, some of the tougher times she faced within it, and how she eventually overcame the obstacles to start Hard Pass. It is a fantastic tale of a creating a safe space for everybody who would like to utilize it.
Never Far from Home Ep. 221 - Citizens of the Rink
Dylan Sanders came onto the podcast, and had some fantastic tales from his time in Nashville, growing up in a time where the nucleus was small in the community. He speaks to the impact the Predators had when they came into the league, and the difference it has made. His hockey led him to Denver, and eventually, through Hawaii and LA detours, he has landed in Northwest Colorado. Enjoy his many stories, from the rink, to the yoga mat.
Never Far from Home Ep. 220 - As a Parent
Alton Simones found the game of hockey on the tennis courts and streets of Aurora as a young child. He recalls the "Sandlot" vibes with his friends, as they would meet up for a pick up game of roller hockey. Upon moving, he came to love the game on ice as well, and has taken few seasons off over the years. Enjoy his hockey tales, as well as the exploration of life. This man is well-rounded, and shares plenty.
Never Far from Home Ep. 219 - Calm is slow, slow is good, good is fast
Charlie Marchese Jr was introduced to hockey, and the community of the rink, at an early age. He started out playing D and goalie, accepted his role as goalie for a few years, and competitively ended his career on the blueline, again. We get into many things, from hockey, to his current pursuits, medically. Enjoy the many tales from this young man with a bright future.
Never Far from Home Ep. 218 - Two Miles in Barcelona
John Schiavo was born to be a hockey player. From his youth days, and getting introduced to the game through his dad, to the present, where the game consumes his days in the best way. He loves every aspect of it, including the times that were difficult. Each helped shape him into who he has become. Enjoy the many tales of one of the ultimate rink rats.
www.bestshifthockey.com
Never Far from Home Ep. 217 - Hockey is good, I'll do more
Lee Zerfass joined the show, and shared some wonderful stories, from growing up in Chicago, to moving to Florida. Lee has found himself in plenty of situations that worked out with the timing, and has been an incredible ambassador to the game. He had a few years playing, and has since taken on numerous roles for different organizations, all in the name of the love of the game. Enjoy!
Never Far from Home Ep. 217 - Hockey is good, I'll do more
Lee Zerfass joined the show, and shared some wonderful stories, from growing up in Chicago, to moving to Florida. Lee has found himself in plenty of situations that worked out with the timing, and has been an incredible ambassador to the game. He had a few years playing, and has since taken on numerous roles for different organizations, all in the name of the love of the game. Enjoy!
Never Far from Home Ep. 216 - Horns up
Lindsey Ellis joined the show, and told fantastic stories from the desert! From a “late start” to winning a national championship, and from playing to starting a girls team at ASU. Lindsey has some wonderful tales, centered around growing the game herself, and watching it expand in Arizona. Enjoy!
Never Far from Home Ep. 215 - Fox Hunting
Lee Cox shares stories from childhood, near Baltimore. She grew up on horses, and is the last of three kids. At her house, there was a pond that froze each year, and her family learned to skate on it. She recalls stories from her times there, to Middlebury, to CU, and finally to Steamboat. Enjoy the many tales from yet another person who got sucked in to the Yampa Valley Curse.
Never Far from Home Ep. 214 - The Collector of People
Travis Gainsley joins me after quite some time trying to convince him to be on. He was a huge piece to getting NFFH off the ground, and I was happy to listen to some of his crazy tales. From some pond hockey, to the beach, to a little mountain town, Travis shares his countless stories, at least a few of them. Enjoy this man’s adventure filled life.
Never Far from Home Ep. 213 - Connections
Scott Graham joins the show. We were able to dive into his timeline, exploring his youth hockey days in Westminster, CO, all the way to his Italian year in the Alps. Scott tells of the many connections the rink has brought him, and we touch on his other love, guiding. Be it on the rink, or on the water, his passion abounds for the things he does. Enjoy the many tales...
Never Far from Home Ep. 212 - For Those that are Listening
Ben Sheridan joins the podcast after being a big fan for a long time. Ben comes on to share his stories of hockey, though sparse. While there may not be a huge tie to the game we love, in terms of playing, Ben has been a huge supporter of Never Far from Home, and we get to have a little fun. Enjoy!
Never Far from Home Ep. 211 - The ones who showed up
Dennis Borland tells his story of falling in love with the game as a fan, and when that developed into trying it for the first time. As the day came for him to suit up, he fell in love with being a goalie, and has played that position since. We talk about his unorthodox timeline, and get into an accident that left him without part of his leg. He opens up about how hockey has helped him battle through the tough times. I hope you enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 210 - Parks and Rec
Ken Bonham shares stories from his childhood, growing up in the greater Detroit area. He talks about his family, his passion for the game that developed at a young age, and then having the game taken from him for a few years. Upon his return, he also found officiating, and what a ride that has taken him on. We also touch on his company that he helped start, and what he is doing now in retirement from reffing. Enjoy another fantastic episode riddled with passion for the game, and a hunger for the community it provides.
Never Far from Home Ep. 209 - Sports Orphan
Craig Fitzpatrick began as a hockey fan at a later age. He was introduced to the sport in college. For years, he was a an avid participant in watching, then he tried to skate for the first time when he was 37. Craig not only began his skating career later than most, but he did so with some visual hindrance. Enjoy the story of a man who overcame fear, and has continued to participate in the game he loves, and who has become a role model for so many.
Never Far from Home Ep. 208 - Lizardheads
Steve Swenson has become more involved in the hockey world as the years have passed. Living in a small mountain town, he talks about watching the evolution of the game, and even the rink, in his local spot. Steve has also birthed an idea to start seeing some coed hockey, and we dive into that somewhat as well, and what his goals are with it. Enjoy another fantastic tale from a supporter of the game, through and through.
Never Far from Home Ep. 207 - Seconds
Chadd Cassidy joins the podcast again to complete the timeline. We had left off just before his move back to Lake Placid (Episode 205). Enjoy the coverage and stories that come from the coach, as we explore his more recent conquests, including time at Northwood, and where he has moved onto lately. Just as with the first discussion with Chadd, we have an excellent time going back and forth, and we get into the family aspect of things as well.
Never Far from Home Ep. 206 - Channel 38
Brian Harvey got his start in hockey when he was just a young kid. Growing up in the Boston area, he fell in love with the Bruins, and remembers fondly the time of Bobby Orr, and the whole squad in the 70’s and 80’s. He played hockey and soccer, and talks about some of the similarities and differences in the cultures, and we touch on how he ended up in Steamboat. It wouldn’t be an episode without some beer league stories, as well. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 205 - Born to be a hockey player
Chadd Cassidy gets on the podcast, and we are able to talk about his origins, being a literal stones throw away from where the Miracle on Ice happened, through his youth career, and into his coaching days. He shares many tales along the way, and we are hoping to have a part 2 to this interview, as we have not told all the stories, even on the timeline. Before that drops, listen here, and enjoy a man not short on hockey knowledge.
Never Far from Home Ep. 204 - The Miracle GM
Butch Martin had some great stories, from growing up in Lake Placid, to his hockey days, his reffing, and his working situation, which included being the GM of the rink during the 1980 Miracle on Ice. Enjoy his many tales he shares from all his years. We also go into his coaching days. Butch has been, and still is, a fixture in the hockey community, and it was a pleasure to hear from him.
Never Far from Home Ep. 203 - Reno
Steve "Reno" Reed joined the podcast, and it was an absolutely great experience. He talks about his history with the game, including a move to Northwood School in the early seventies where he coached hockey and taught math his first year. We get into stories surrounding Northwood, the coaches and players who have come through, and of course, we touch on the 1980 Olympics. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 202 - The Ladakh Express
Sooner Dawson tells stories about his time growing up playing hockey in Vermont. His family was another hockey family, and when he came along, it only made sense to get him involved in the game. Sooner was lucky enough to get taken all around the globe chasing hockey, from the East Coast, to the Rockies, to India. Yes, India. Enjoy his many tales.
Never Far from Home Ep. 201 - 12 hours
Terri Potter is an absolute champion. She is a friend of a friend who let me crash in the guest bedroom for an evening, and in the midst of that, I had to check the box of live interview in New Hampshire. She obliged, and we go through her stories that include at LEAST one good one from a hockey game. Enjoy a little detour from the usual Never Far from Home guest, as I find human stories.
Never Far from Home Ep. 200 - State of Hockey Address Aug. 4 '21
Mike Cochran and I go back and forth in what is the second edition of the “State of Hockey Address”. There is the storytelling, mostly from the trip, and from the guests I have had on. And there is some hockey talk on the back half as well, as we chat about the expansion draft and the first couple days of free agency. Enjoy what is a brief step away from the interview process, and is a great chance for us to just talk shop.
Never Far from Home Ep. 199 - T4T4 The Sound of Ice
Ruby Goldner came on, and the conversation was a little bit looser than the normal timeline talk. We definitely got into some of that, but also, the discussion led to opinions on some of the darker sides of figure skating and hockey. Alas, our little world is not perfect. Enjoy what was an intellectually stimulating conversation, riddled with the ever-present chase for stories.
Never Far from Home Ep. 198 - The Doctor is in
Lindsey Migliore got involved with the community of the rink through her wife, and now plays as much hockey as she can. We were able to talk about her introduction to the game, and how and why she has since fallen in love with the sport. We also talk a lot about what she does for work, as a doctor. She is involved in the E-sports world, and is trying to bring light to others in her field about video-gaming and how it can effect players outside of it. Enjoy a unique episode, but one full of fun chatting.
Never Far from Home Ep. 197 - Rudo
Andrew Rudolph did not have much involvement in the game of hockey until he came into his latest job. We talk about his upbringing, and what has led him to the sports scene in a more professional sense. Enjoy his many tales, and just being able to hear the stories that paved the way to a career!
Never Far from Home Ep. 196 - Gravitate and Emulate
Deron Barton grew up in the game of hockey, and does not remember a time when it was not a passion of his. We talk about some of his favorite youth memories, some of the players he was able to look up to, and how his career progressed. He ended up getting into coaching pretty quickly after his playing career wrapped up, and we speak about that transition. Some of the stories Deron shares will have you laughing, and others will make you think about what we are seeing in today's society. Enjoy!
Never Far from Home Ep. 195 - Comically Unconditioned
Pete Bissell grew up playing a variation of pond and ice hockey. He fell in love with the game and played for a few years through his childhood. Different reasons pulled him away from the game for a number of years, but as is so often the case, it pulled him back in. He tells tales about his time away from the sport, and how it was able to get him back involved. From the time he started up again, he has not stepped away, and has no plans to do so. He also is able to highlight what Bissell Brothers Brewing is doing for the local hockey community.
Never Far from Home Ep. 194 - 30 Minutes
Terrence Wallin grew up in hockey. He does not remember a time that he wasn't playing. We are able to dive into his career, from his youth days, through his time at UMass - Lowell, and eventually we touch on his climb from the SPHL all the way to the AHL. Terrence has faced adversity at almost every level, but has pushed through. Enjoy his tales of triumph, and how some sage advice from a baseball player helped him in hockey.
Never Far from Home Ep. 193 - Beauty Unis
Casey Sprogis got his start young in the hockey world. He fell in love with the game right away, and knew he wanted to stay involved in some capacity as he grew up. Mission Accomplished. We sit down and tell stories from his youth days, through his one year of juniors, and then his move to Maine. Casey is it, he IS the Beauty Unis guy I get to talk about on each show, and finally, we get to highlight him, and his stories. This was a great episode, and I hope you find as much enjoyment with it as I did.
Never Far from Home Ep. 192 - Learned and Confirmed
Matt Voity picked up hockey a little later than most, but fell in love with the game right away. He realized quickly that he wanted to take the game as far as it would let him, and he pursued dreams of playing pro. While those did not come to fruition, he has been able to make a living staying within the game in different coaching roles. He shares stories from his hockey beginnings, all the way through his current status. Enjoy!
fischerhockey.net
Never Far from Home Ep. 192 - Learned and Confirmed
Matt Voity picked up hockey a little later than most, but fell in love with the game right away. He realized quickly that he wanted to take the game as far as it would let him, and he pursued dreams of playing pro. While those did not come to fruition, he has been able to make a living staying within the game in different coaching roles. He shares stories from his hockey beginnings, all the way through his current status. Enjoy!
Never Far from Home Ep. 191 - Bets in the Booth
Michael Keeley grew up in a sporty house, but didn’t truly get the hockey bug for a bit. As he was deciding where to go for college, and what he wanted to pursue, he found announcing. Shortly after, he saw an opportunity in both baseball and hockey. His journey became more focused on hockey when he called games in college, and we chat about his career path. It includes stints in Junior hockey, following college. Eventually he made his way to Maine, where he currently resides with the Mariners. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 190 - Cinder Blocks
Suzanne Driscoll has had an incredible journey. She began as a figure skater, with a mom who heavily influenced that decision. Finally, she came into hockey, which was much more her speed. She played all the way through college, and shares stories along the journey. She has once more found a place in the community, though more niche. She now participates in Ice Cross, and goes into some tales about those memories as well. Enjoy!
Never Far from Home Ep. 189 - Attitude of Gratitude
Wayne Messmer grew up in the sports scene, but had a number of building blocks that led him on a different path than most of my guests. Wayne is a singer. He has performed the anthem for numerous pro teams across the Chicago landscape. We talked about his path that led him to a number of great moments. He also chats about some of the adversity he had to face at different times in his life. I hope you enjoy this as much as I did.
Never Far from Home Ep. 188 - The Shadow
Ben Mariano has played hockey since he was a small boy. He fell in love with the game in many different ways over the years, and we talk about his journey from that young kid, through his junior career, and into his college days. Ben shares some wonderful stories about the different times of his career, and we get into what it is he does now. I lay down the challenge for him to get back into the game as well. Enjoy the tales.
Never Far from Home Ep. 187 - No Such Hockey
Justin del Rosario found hockey later on in life, starting to play in his forties. That didn’t deter him from quickly leading a few skates, including No Such Hockey, and Gay Hockey in DC. We talk about his brief, but strong love affair with the game, and what aspects stand out to him the most within the community. Enjoy his tales, as we delve into some stories as well!
Never Far from Home Ep. 186 - Viral Videos
Johnny Krupinsky has had a heavy involvement in the Danbury hockey scene for years. We talk about his favorite teams he has had the pleasure of watching, coaching, and being a fan of. Johnny talks about the Danbury Arena's extra man advantage, and we go into some stories over the years. This was an explosive interview with a high energy guy. Enjoy.
beautyunis.com
stand-creative.com
Never Far from Home Ep. 185 - Another side of Danbury
Kelly Potter has been skating since she was a teenager, and fell in love with the community of the rink. She realized that she wanted to continue being involved, even when the roles changed, and she shifted from competitor to coach seamlessly. She has been coaching since the transition, and with over a decade of experience, she was a great choice to take over the figure skating and learn to skate programs at the Danbury Arena. We touch on all these aspects, and find some stories as well. Enjoy!
Never Far from Home Ep. 184 - Just Czeching in
Matyas Kasek grew up in the Czech Republic playing a different style of game. We talked about the differences in coaching style, and how he had to adapt his game when he came to play in the US and Canada. He shares stories from every stop along the way, and we highlight his opportunity that he came into at the Danbury Arena, where he now is the hockey director. Enjoy!
Never Far from Home Ep. 183 - First Words
Nick Garofalo grew up playing hockey. He fell in love with the game at a young age, and knew he wanted to stay involved in some capacity even when he grew to be an adult. Thankfully, the Danbury Arena provided just that opportunity. Nick started working there, and has climbed the ladder, eventually finding himself with the opportunity to take on the GM role in the arena. We chat about the progression. Enjoy the tales.
Never Far from Home Ep. 182 - ABR
Amber Moore grew up on the west coast playing hockey, and has loved the sport since an early age. Her life brought her around the country to play, and she eventually landed on the eastern seaboard, and ended up in some spectacular moments within the sport. We explore many of her tales, from childhood, to grown-up childhood. Enjoy the stories she shares, and the energy with which she shares them!
Never Far from Home Ep. 181 - A broadcasters tale
Zack Fisch was a sporty guy growing up, but found himself loving the game of hockey from a young age. He talks about how he moved through the youth ranks, and then his decision to stay involved with the game after his playing was over. That decision drove many others, and we navigate his career path, and how he has managed to stay in the game he so loves. Enjoy his many tales!
Never Far from Home Ep. 180 - Taking Ownership
Herm Sorcher grew up going to hockey games, and loved most aspects of it. When he was in college, he worked for the Hartford Whalers, and was able to attend a good amount of games over three years. He took some time away from hockey and worked in baseball for 17 years, and has since returned to the best game there is. In his new capacity, he has seen a different side of hockey. Enjoy his tales!
Never Far from Home Ep. 179 - Rocky Mountain Reminiscing (RMR)
Tim Rinck grew up playing the game from a young age. He fell in love with so many aspects of the sport, and the community that came with it. Hockey stayed with him through some college time, and has been a piece of his journey throughout all his travels. We met in Steamboat while he was living there, and now, we were able to sit down and share some of his favorite moments from the game. Enjoy!
Never Far from Home Ep. 178 - Go where you are wanted
Johnny Kyte joined the podcast. We had a great chat about his hockey life, hockey family, and some wonderful stories were shared. Johnny was a bouncer, spending some of his youth in the States, and other times up in Canada. He talks about balancing that with the hockey, and we get into some stories from his college days. Also we speak on the Canadian Deaf National Team. I hope you enjoy this one as much as I did!
Never Far from Home Ep. 177 - Now, here we are
Troy Mick grew up in Vernon, BC. We go through his stories, from his earliest at two getting pushed around the rink, to his current status as a coach in Philadelphia. In the middle, there is a draft experience to the Penguins, some injuries, a quick transition to coaching after retirement from playing, and we look at it all. Troy shares some wonderful stories about his hockey experiences, and it was a pleasure listening. I hope you enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 176 - The Arvada Rink Rat
Tom Greene grew up in Arvada hockey, and was part of a hockey family through and through. We talk about his career playing, and some of his stand out memories, including some trips to Aspen. We also share our meeting story, and it truly shows the community aspect of what hockey means. He also shares some current stories about what he is doing, and some coaching gigs he happened into. Enjoy the many tales on this one, as I sure did!
Never Far from Home Ep. 175 - Transformative
Billy Carr joined the podcast, and we were able to explore his story from his beginnings as a kid playing in Maryland, through his time helping to build the Laurel rink, and up through his twenties and thirties. There are plenty of great stories in this one, and while we stray from the “timeline” you may be used to, you will love the candid responses. Billy is another guest who opens up about the mental health side of the game as well. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 174 - Goalies Inc 2.0
Jim, Adam, and Ben all sit down as we are able to talk about the Goalies Inc. brand a little more in depth. Jim, of course, was on Episode 166, and shared some of his story, but we really focus on the business in this one, and also some of the fun stories that have come out of it. Adam and Ben also are on the pod, as we go around the table talking hockey, and sharing memories, as well as some laughs. Enjoy!
Never Far from Home Ep. 173 - My Friend Adam
Adam Lindeman picked up the game of hockey at a young age, and has had a wonderful experience with the game. He didn’t dive into being a goalie until his Bantam and Midget years, but has since grown in the role, and is still playing today. We talk about many things on this episode, including some fun stories, but things get serious as well when we mention mental health. Adam opens up about some dark times, and explains how hockey may have saved his life. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 172 - Willy
Shane Willis joined the podcast, and we were able to explore his story from his beginnings as a kid playing in a small town, to his big move to play around his bantam seasons, and of course, we follow the journey to his NHL days. Shane was great in sharing his experiences, and mixing in commentary on some interesting topics surrounding the sport. I hope you enjoy his many tales!
Never Far from Home Ep. 171 - The Chmielewski's
This is a fathers day edition of NFFH, and it was a fantastic chat with Bob and Tom Chmielewski. There are some of the normal questions you hear about how they were involved with the rink, but I have a cohost on this one who asks some questions about mutual friends, and the impact that relationships have had on both Bob and Tom, but especially Tom as he made his way through his career. Enjoy this special treat.
Never Far from Home Ep. 170 - Herr Herr
Matt Herr has been involved in hockey since he was a young kid. We explored his timeline of involvement within this episode, with promises of a second, more story-filled episode to come! That being said, I did not neglect my duties as a host, and he shares some wonderful tales about hockey, the many rinks he has been to, and even gets into an overseas incident that had him sweating. Enjoy!
Never Far from Home Ep. 169 - Craft It
Matt Mackey has been in love with hockey since watching his first pro game live. He became involved with the sport as soon as he could, and we talk about how the rink has been one of the most constant things in his life, through all the ups and downs he has experienced. Even today, be it adult league, or cheering on the Capitals, Matt remains involved. Enjoy the many tales he has to share!
Never Far from Home Ep. 168 - CMU Original
Zach Nichols began playing hockey later in his teenage years, and holds on to the dream of playing professional to this day! We talk about his love of the game, and how he has continued to grow it through the years. Enjoy his many tales, including about his stint in Steamboat, and his ensuing travel to Grand Junction to go to school, where he partook in the first year of CMU's team. Enjoy his many stories connected to the game that is a big part of who he is today.
Never Far from Home Ep. 167 - Another Hockey Nerd
Bobby Cervone grew up in hockey, and has wanted to stay involved with the game as much as he could. That led him to working at a hockey store for a piece of time. We explore his beginnings, all the way through college, and of course, we cover what he is doing today. Enjoy another great episode filled with content that will scratch the itch of every hockey nerd out there.
Never Far from Home Ep. 166 - Goalies INC
Jim Stanaway has been a hockey guy his whole life. In this first discussion (Second to come later in the month), we talk about his career path, and some of the decisions that led him down the road he now travels. And he sure does travel. He has gone coast to coast for his company, Goalies INC, training young netminders, and relying on his own history to do so. Enjoy the first episode of two with a real character.
Never Far from Home Ep. 165 - Kraken Fancast
Lute Chell has been a hockey fan for a very long time. He had some playing experience, and shares some stories from his playing time, and of course, we get into his fandom, which has taken off. He was at UND for the '87 National Championship, and tells some tales from there as well. Recently, Lute has been a fan of the Seattle franchise set to take the ice next season. He, amongst others, are leading a new podcast talking about the new team. Enjoy his tales.
Never Far from Home Ep. 164 - Magic Mike
Mike Garris grew up a goalie, but he is so much more than the stigma associated with them. Jokes aside, we talk about his introduction to hockey, how he grew to love the game, and he shares stories about how he stays involved to this day. Mike and I were chatting in the Five Hole pro shop, his current work site, and we had an absolute ball of a time. Enjoy the many laughs we share.
Never Far from Home Ep. 163 - NHL Seattle
John Barr didn’t really dive into hockey until his mid to late twenties, but when he did, it was with everything he had. He now plays three or more times a week, and was a big advocate for bringing the NHL to Seattle. We talk about his efforts to help the city get an NHL club, and of course we mix in some stories of his playing as well. Enjoy the tales of a man who fell in love with the sport, and has since helped grow it on every level.
Never Far from Home Ep. 162 - Environmental Sciences
Courtney Boutelle was introduced to the rink around her middle school years, and immediately fell in love with all aspects. She tells stories from her early days of figure skating, to her transition into hockey, and then we get in to some stories from her time in college. She has always had an affinity for the rink, and in most places she has visited, she partook in one capacity or another. Enjoy her many tales, all that led her back to her hometown, in Cody.
Never Far from Home Ep. 161 - The Iron Lung
Matt Trust grew up a fan of the game of hockey, but became involved in a larger degree at fourteen. He found a love for writing, and had aspirations of being a beat writer for an NHL squad. We talk about his time in Hershey, from a high schooler, through his internship years, and into a full time position. Matt shares stories from his time with the Bears, to his current position with the Swamp Rabbits. Enjoy!
Never Far from Home Ep. 160 - Smashville
Tommy and Kristen Mattox join me for a wonderful episode. We talk about Kristen's background with hockey, and the family tie it had. We also explore the sport through Tommy, who had a couple experiences early on in life, but has become a huge fan of the nuts and bolts since moving to Nashville. These two were superstars, they took me in for a couple evenings, and to be able to listen to their stories as to why they love the game so much? It was incredible. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 159 - Last on the Scoresheet
Jennifer Boniecki was taken by the rink when she was just a young girl growing up in Chicago. She found herself playing girls hockey, and was always battling with her younger brother to "one-up" each other's accomplishments. Jen won bronze internationally, and her brother won a State Championship. As a squirt... I will let you decide! She shares great stories of family, school, and what she has done to stay in the game of hockey for work. Enjoy!
Never Far from Home Ep. 158 - Precision in Rhythm
Paula Trujillo is another guest who was born into the community of the rink. We go over her family dynamics, from mother and father, to her three siblings, and eventually we touch on her kids. It was a phenomenal discussion including memories from Lake Placid at THE game, years developing relationships with the Ice Capades, and how all of that has led to her latest roll. Enjoy the many tales my friend has to share.
Never Far from Home Ep. 157 - A Family Affair
Kristen Bowness was born into a hockey family, but had some difficulty in her early years to find the love of the game. When she did, it quickly became a mainstay in her life and work. She shares stories of growing up on the road, chasing all the hockey the family partook in, as well as that transition to finding the love of the game for herself. Kristen is a big family gal, and that comes through in this interview. I hope you enjoy!
Never Far from Home Ep. 156 - Behind the scenes
Patrick Houlihan got into the hockey scene a little later in his teen years. He quickly progressed through a number of areas in the game, and found himself with a few great stories that he shares about his playing days. From there, we talk about his transition to equipment managing. He has put in countless hours at the rink, between the equipment side, and also a five year stint helping run a program. Enjoy his many tales, and some good philosophy as well.
Never Far from Home Ep. 155 - Don't talk about it, be about it
Darren McCarty grew up with the game of hockey. He learned to love it at a young age, and found the relationships he got from the locker room were some of his best. He talks about family, both from his childhood to current day. He speaks on the brothers he has from his days in Junior B, to playing with the Wings. And we touch on some of his tough times after hockey. It was a true pleasure to hear stories from Darren. I hope you enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 154 - In honor of...
Jenna Janshen got involved with hockey in elementary school. She spent a few years playing the game, then moved into officiating. She talks about her pathway within the rink, the few years she took off for college, and coming back to the game after she graduated. Her journey has taken her to many places, and through it all, she has found a great family within the rink community. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 153 - Well Equipped
Nicholas Bayruns was born into hockey. He speaks about his childhood moving around the country, and eventually ending up in upstate New York. He loves the game, and shares some of his favorite memories of playing. Things get good when we move to his time in college, where he learned to love the game in a whole new way, as an equipment manager. Enjoy his many great tales.
Never Far from Home Ep. 152 - Good People
Craig Blumegold began playing hockey just before he turned 30. He shares stories about how he fell in love with the game so quickly, and how it has become a major part of his life today. Craig has been involved now as a player, ref, and coach, and he has been lucky enough to find himself inside the disabled hockey realm for refereeing. His stories are great, and you can hear in them just how easy it is to love the great game we all do.
Never Far from Home Ep. 151 - From fan to guest
Allan Marini is a huge hockey fan, and since finding the podcast, he has become a fan of the trip as well. It was an absolute pleasure discussing some of his favorite memories, most hockey related, others are not. While we talked on many major moments, some of the names and dates may be off a little, but bare with us, because the journey is the destination. Allan talks about time in Hamilton, Toronto, and finally, being in the states. Enjoy!
Never Far from Home Ep. 150 - Mom's of Hockey #7
Kira Ripley has been in the rinks since she was a little girl. Her older brother of two and a half years was a hockey player, so Kira has many memories of being in the car with the whole family heading to his games. She shares a few of those, and we get into when she became a mom of three boys, and the difficulties, and of course the triumphs, of all three in the sport. Kira also tells about some of her best friendships, and how they were forged in the rink. A big thank you to ALL the mom's of hockey. We love you all.
Never Far from Home Ep. 149 - Mom's of Hockey #6
Cathy Lapointe grew up on the East Coast with hockey ever-present in her peripheral. She was enamored by the sport, but didn't fall in love with it until she had two boys who began playing. She shares some stories of camaraderie, on the teams, and in the stands with the other parents as well. We go into what makes hockey so special for her and her kids. A big thank you to all the mom's of hockey.
Never Far from Home Ep. 148 - Mom's of Hockey #5
Doris Donley has played a wonderful games of hockey. Period 1: Falling in love with the sport, and her now husband. Period 2: Learning more about the rules, and watching her son fall in love with the game. Period 3: Finally picking it up herself, and finding different aspects to adore. Overtime: volunteering, and giving back to the game which ended up giving her so much. Enjoy her many tales amidst the game itself, and a big thanks to ALL the mom's of hockey.
Never Far from Home Ep. 147 - Mom's of Hockey #4
Olga Chase grew up in What is now the Czech Republic. She is also my mom. I was lucky enough to have her on as a guest, and hear some of her incredible stories, including some about hockey in the 1972 World Championship, and others about life. Many of her younger days were spent under the Communist regime of the Soviet Union and she shares some of those experiences. Enjoy her many tales, and I hope you like this one as much as I did, though I may be biased. A big thank you to ALL the mom's of hockey.
Never Far from Home Ep. 146 - Mom's of Hockey #3
Lori Mitchell became involved with the game of hockey when she was dating her now-husband, Paul. When they moved to Colorado and had kids, they were quickly introduced to the sport, and finally, Lori began playing as well, becoming the fourth in the family to partake. She shares stories of how she fell in love with the game in the many different capacities, and how she found a family in the locker room with the Bobcats. A big thanks to ALL the Mom's of Hockey, and to Lori for her time.
Never Far from Home Ep. 145 - Mom's of Hockey #2
Lori Walsh was introduced to hockey in her later teen years, when she started dating a hockey player. As fate would have it, she married him eventually, and their journey through the hockey world has taken them from Detroit to San Diego, then Knoxville and eventually Colorado. We talk about her favorite memories of the game, and how it has helped shape the family she has now. Enjoy, and many thanks to the Mom's of Hockey...
Never Far from Home Ep. 144 - Mom's of Hockey #1
Lesli Cochran was first introduced to hockey when she was a kid, but didn't truly begin following the sport until she was a mom. Her oldest, Mike, is one of my best friends, and was the hockey player in the family. Lesli talks about putting off hockey as long as they could, and inevitably, giving in and letting Mike play a sport that has shaped his life. We talk about some of her favorite memories, and the impact she has seen the sport have on her son, and the whole family. Enjoy, and thank you to Hockey Mom's everywhere.
Never Far from Home Ep. 143 - Musician Turned Sportsman
Chris Garner grew up in Niagara Falls, Ontario, and watched hockey as a kid, but he didn't find himself playing until his late thirties. We talk about his childhood, growing into a musician, and some fun stories come up about some of the traveling he has been lucky enough to do. Things transition into a more sporty realm when Chris began playing hockey, volleyball, and golf, and we chat about the camaraderie of sport, and how important community is. I hope you enjoy as much as I did.
Never Far from Home Ep. 142 - Overseas Knees
Taylor Cook was born into hockey. She grew up in a very supportive family, and in her mid-teens, she shifted gears, and became more serious within girls hockey. We talk about her youth days, some of her favorite memories and people she encountered, and then we get into her overseas experience. Taylor has been lucky enough to find a great home now, but there were some interesting times in getting there. Enjoy!
Never Far from Home Ep. 141 - UND Tendy '87
Ed Belfour grew up in Manitoba, and was born into the hockey culture. He tells stories of his youth days, playing on some very competitive and strong teams, and his unlikely happening into being a goalie. We talk about his path to UND, and helping the Sioux capture the National Championship in '87. And of course, we get into his NHL career. Wrapping up, we are able to discuss Belfour Spirits, and his latest endeavor with a family business. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 140 - Community Gained
Sawyer Lorenz got involved with hockey in his teenage years. He was a fan first, and talks about how and why he was watching the '07 Finals. We go through his timeline of involvement within the sport, which includes some playing, some scorekeeping, and at every turn, love for the game. He tells stories about his first goals, and shares moments and passion with regards to the Jr. team that called Steamboat home for a few years. Enjoy his tales.
Never Far from Home Ep. 139 - Thorby
Chris Thorburn grew up in Canada, and was born into the hockey scene. we talk to him about his journey through youth hockey, to juniors, to eventually making it to the NHL. We gather stories along the path, and also take a different direction for a piece of time, exploring autism, and the personal connection it has for Chris. Enjoy his many tales, including some from the Stanley Cup run he went on.
Never Far from Home Ep. 138 - Big Booming Red Wings Fan
Alex Coffey did have a few years of hockey when he was young, but stopped playing in second grade when he decided to pursue skiing. He was a member of SSWSC, but has always been a huge hockey fan, and for some reason, a Red Wings fan. We forgive him of that, and talk about his life, from early playing days, to soccer and skiing, so coming back to the sport in High School. Enjoy his tales.
Never Far from Home Ep. 137 - The Crossover
Sady Tobin was involved with the rink from a young age, as her brother played hockey and was three years older. She didn't start playing until she was a teenager, and loved the sport. We talk about her days in youth hockey, then her time at prep school playing both hockey and soccer. Her tales she shares include some post-college days, when she became involved with RMHS. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 136 - Birdie
Ian Anderson spent most of his youth days in Steamboat. He started playing hockey at a young age, and fell in love with the sport because of a former Avalanche superstar. He shares that story, and many others along his career. We played many seasons on the same team, so it was a great experience to sit down with an old friend, catch up, and share some war stories. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 135 - VC Bobcats
Ellen Tully grew up around the rink. She was the youngest in a hockey family, and though she did not ever play organized hockey herself, she fell in love with the game. That love and passion has stuck with her as she has traversed the hockey landscape, and the journey has led her to being the first female owner of a professional hockey team. We talk about the Bobcats, who enter their first season of play this fall, and we also touch on some of her stories leading up to ownership. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 134 - Legalized Carnage
Gary Whiteley became involved in the game of hockey in his early twenties. He fell in love with the game, and wishes now that he had gotten involved at an earlier age. He tells stories about how he fell in love with it, some of his favorite stories of learning to play the game, and then, inevitably, we talk about his goaltending. He has played standing hockey, and some sledge hockey. Enjoy his many tales.
Never Far from Home Ep. 133 - UND '87
Bob Joyce was born into the hockey world. His father was a player himself, and Bob quickly found a love for the game. We talk about his early days, and some of his favorite memories from growing up in Winnipeg. We touch on family, the impact they had on him, and continue to have on him, including his mother. Enjoy the many tales he shares, including some from his National Championship run in '87, and his legacy he has helped shape at his most recent school.
Never Far from Home Ep. 132 - One Sheffield
Martin Peters was first introduced to the game of hockey with a family name that many know, the Gretzky's. He met Keith and Walter, and shares that brief story. His life took him away from the sport for a few years, but he has since returned, and in a big way in the UK. We talk about his renewed love of the game from the perspective of a father, and also talk at length about the whole Sheffield program. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 131 - The Middle Triplet
Zack Slezak began playing hockey shortly after he could walk. He shares stories about growing up in the Chicago area, falling in love with the sport and the community surrounding it, then moving to Tampa. Now in Florida, a non-traditional hockey market, he has continued to find himself happening in to great stories, and great experiences. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 130 - The Clumsy Artist
Jacquelin Zimmerman began figure skating in her youth days, as she was exploring the many sports available to her at the time. She fell in love with skating, and progressed through the ranks. She talks about some of her favorite memories from her youth, under a few different coaches. We also get into the community aspect of the sport, and how lucky she was to find some camaraderie in a sport that is not always boasting that. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 129 - Strength in Culture
Connor Lyons began playing roller hockey, and a few years later got into the realm of ice hockey. His journey has taken him all around the world, playing and coaching. We talk about some of his favorite stories of playing, and get into some strength coach stories as well. Enjoy the many tales he brings to the table in this episode.
Never Far from Home Ep. 128 - Big Roller Hockey Guy
Jordan Mackenzie began playing roller hockey, and has been able to stay involved with the rink since he was eight. He now is participating with the Lightning street teams, and shares some of his stories, from his time biking to the local roller rink, to his first experiences with ice hockey. Enjoy the tales of a guy who has a real passion for giving back to the communities he lives in.
Never Far from Home Ep. 127 - Blueprints
Ryan Cronin grew up in upstate New York, and was introduced to the hockey world by his grandpa at just three or four. He was fixated on the game when they went, even as such a young age, and his passion stuck with him. We go into stories from some of his more formative relationships in the game, including a high school player five years his senior, and his high school coach. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 126 - Born into Boston Fandom
Nick Strid began skating around eight years old. He began skating on figure skates for the first few months, then quickly transitioned into hockey. His love for the game developed fast, and even now, he understands that he wants to be involved in some capacity as long as he can. Enjoy his tales from youth days, through high school, and even into some college club.
Never Far from Home Ep. 125 - Lightning Outreach
On this unique episode of NFFH, I am joined by a couple guys working for the Tampa Bay Lightning in their outreach programs: Aaron and Jordan. They are able to talk about the great programs that they are lucky to be a part of, and there is a small piece of their backgrounds mixed in as well, including how Jordan is a roller hockey guy. Enjoy this one, a glimpse into at least one organizations efforts to expand the game.
Never Far from Home Ep. 124 - The Grind
Dusty Henning began playing when he was a youngin. He regales me with some of his best memories of his youth days, before we get into his long list of pro hockey. The man has played a lot of different places, and struggled to find good management in his early days, running into a few situations of teams that folded before the year was done. Enjoy this one, it's entertaining.
Never Far from Home Ep. 123 - Small Town Juneau Boy
Colter Pritchard began playing hockey in his early teens, after first getting introduced to skating at three. He quickly became a goaltender, and loved it. His hockey journey took him from AK to the lower 48 for juniors, then to Utah for college. We talk about the journey, the different people who impacted him along the way, and we touch on his future plans. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 122 - Real Life
Ricky Gnatowsky was not born into hockey, at all. He happened into the rink life, after REAL LIFE, and he has since fallen in love with the community. We go into stories from his early days when he was still learning the ropes of the pro shop, to his time now as a manager of the Brandon facility. Oh ya, and he raps. Oh ya (again) and WE rap. So there's that...
Never Far from Home Ep. 121 - The Metro Method
Glen Metropolit grew up in Toronto. We sat down today over some coffee, and he shared some stories from his youth playing days, moving from ball hockey in to the ice rink, and eventually, finding the game could take him many places. He talks about his transition from high school hockey to Junior B, then moving from Junior B right into pros. Enjoy the tales he shares, all leading him to developing the "Metro Method".
Never Far from Home Ep. 120 - Florida Fans
Amber Niland was born to be a hockey player. She started playing when she was around five, and has been engaging in different aspects of the community of the rink since. She talks about playing, then her transition into women's hockey in the state, and eventually, she found her way into coaching. Enjoy her many tales!
Never Far from Home Ep. 119 - SteelKings
Jake Oakley was introduced to hockey at a younger age, but at first, he was not a fan of skating. He would attend games with his father and sister, and loved the atmosphere, falling in love with the many aspects of the sport. Later on in life, he found himself presented with the chance to be a part of a great organization, in the Steel Kings. Enjoy his many tales.
Never Far from Home Ep. 118 - Block 17
Liz Stewart always seemed to fancy hockey. She was not involved in the game in her childhood, but around her teen years, finally found her way to the rink. She shares her stories of why she loves the game, and we get into a tough subject as well: mental health. She is currently working to become a sports psychologist, and we go into some details about her dissertation. You guessed it, it's on hockey. Enjoy
Never Far from Home Ep. 117 - The Rink Life
Graig O'Brien was able to explore the community of the pond as a kid, as well as deck hockey. He was then introduced to the game later on as a dad, and has fallen in love with the community of the game, both from the parenting standpoint, and from that of someone now playing in the beer leagues. Enjoy his many tales.
Never Far from Home Ep. 116 - Block Party
Seth Kushner was introduced to hockey as a fan of the Tampa Bay Lightning. He was able to grow his love of the game after working with some of the players, and getting a closer look at some of the inner workings of the organization. Enjoy his tales of transition from radio days to podcasts, and the many great guests he has had on.
Never Far from Home Ep. 115 - Working Hard
Kyle was at rinks from a young age, watching hockey, but didn't begin playing till he was ten. We get into details about his youth hockey days, and eventually his tales from junior hockey, until his injuries forced him out of the game. Enjoy!
Never Far from Home Ep. 114 - Taranaki Masters Games
I am joined by a few awesome guys from the Taranaki Masters Games in New Zealand, and we are able to talk about inline, and how it is growing in the country. Each guy gets a few minutes to tell his own story as well. Enjoy this one. It is a little bit of a tough one, listening-wise, as we were on a zoom call, and my internet was barely holding up. But even with that, you can tell how much they love the game.
Never Far from Home Ep. 113 - Whale Tales
Jamie Goldsmith began skating on Beaver Lake, and played boys hokey for a few years before making the shift to girls around twelve or thirteen. Enjoy her many stories from playing time, to her coaching days! We also get a few good laughs about how we connected, which can be fun in and of itself.
Never Far from Home Ep. 112 - The Bus Boy
Ernie Hartlieb was born into the hockey community. His father was a big fan and player of the game, and being in Michigan, it was an easy sell. He remembers falling in love with the game right from his first pair of skates. Enjoy his tales, as we work through his timeline inside the rink, and tell some fun stories along the way.
Never Far from Home Ep. 111 - The Parking Lot
Tom McLean got a later start in hockey. He was already in his early twenties when he began playing, and being in Florida in the 90's, he was first introduced to the roller rink. We talk about some of his storyline, how he eventually became involved in ice hockey, and of course, we explore what he is doing now with his podcast and Facebook group, "The Parking Lot". Enjoy!
Never Far from Home Ep. 110 - Morty
Craig Morton was another NFFH'er born into hockey. His father was a big hockey guy in Detroit, and Craig had an older brother that was already a player as well. He grew up in the midwest, and shares stories of his youth days, including a couple bad injuries. His transition from player to coach was a quick one, and we explore the different involvements with the game that he has had. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 109 - Shaggy
Warren Hewett began playing hockey in his mid to late teens. He started in the roller arena, before moving over to ice within a year or two. There was an overlap of a few years, when he was doing both, but eventually injuries forced him into ice in a full time capacity. Enjoy his many stories from his local rinks, to some European tours he partook in.
Never Far from Home Ep. 108 - Surrounded by Talent
Bryan Smith began playing hockey a little later in life, but was able to catch up quick. We talk about his journey through his playing days, through his short stint as a seasonal employee enjoying the best of summers and winters in Colorado. He then goes into great detail, and shares some fantastic stories, about Rocky Mtn. Hockey schools. Enjoy his many tales of travel and hockey, and how he has been lucky enough to surround himself with great people and minds.
Never Far from Home Ep. 107 - Through Hockey
Brent Pearson began skating from the age of two. He was born into a family of hockey players and figure skaters, as his mom was on the ice at high levels of figure, and his father was a hockey guy. It was easy enough to fall in love with the game, and we explore some of his favorite memories of his competitive days, some fro his time in senior AAA, playing with his brother, and of course we get into how hockey has remained a centerpiece to his life through all his travel. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 106 - Black Butterflies
Kam Fink began playing roller hockey, and within a few years had transitioned to ice. We step through his journey, including a couple tough years in Peewee, all the way through his college days. Like all of us, Covid has impacted his playing nowadays, but he is anxiously awaiting returning to the rink, and soon enough getting involved in coaching. Enjoy his many stories.
Never Far from Home Ep. 105 - Shrode-a-saurus
Kaitlyn Shrode started skating around six years old. She is the younger of the Shrode sisters, and tells many stories of growing up in the hockey household she did. Her tales span youth time spent in Craig, to her time spent on the front range, then Chicago, and eventually, how she found her way back into the hockey life in Naples, Florida, of all places. Enjoy!
Never Far from Home Ep. 104 - Shrodey
Taylor Shrode began playing hockey when she was ten. She fell in love with the game a few years later when she started traveling for a team on the Front Range of Colorado. She talks about her trip through the rest of U19, then into her college career as well. Enjoy the many tales she has about her hockey!
Never Far from Home Ep. 103 - Home is where the rink is
Bobby Davis began playing hockey around nine or ten. He shares tales from a young age of the impact his mom and dad had on him, not just on the ice, but in life. He was well travelled in the game by the time he graduated high school, and has found himself plugged in to the community of the rink at every juncture of his life. Enjoy the many stories he shares about what exactly makes this community one of his most important to this day.
Never Far from Home Ep. 102 - Betting on myself
Nicco Cardarelli began playing hockey early in his childhood. He gathered rather quickly that it would not lead him to the NHL as a player, but he accepted this, and found a love of the game amidst the camaraderie with teammates, and eventual lifelong friends. His passion took over again in his mid-twenties, when he decided to get into broadcasting, and he shares stories from his many experiences that have since unfolded, including Parasport.tv, a company he began. Enjoy!
Never Far from Home Ep. 101 - Elbow Crease
Kyle Hayton began playing hockey when he was seven. He found more of a pssion for the game around twelve, and pursued his dreams of playing professionally. His journey took him through many stops, and we explore stories from most. Enjoy the tales of a tendy who, dare I say it, seemed to have his stuff together.
Never Far from Home Ep. 100 - State of Hockey Address Feb. 2021
In the first ever State of Hockey Address, Mike Cochran returns to the show, as we talk about what the first one hundred episodes have done. There is a recap, touching on some of the favorite episodes, and there is an update to the trip itself. The boys end with a little NHL hockey talk as well. Enjoy, and thank you for your support through the first 100. The promise is alive, that each episode we strive to be better!
Never Far from Home Ep. 99 - Car rides
Sheldon Randell grew up in Newfoundland, and was started skating at a very early age. His dad was a big influencer in his hockey, and he shares some fantastic stories about the many car rides he had to take, playing in a town an hour away from his home. He goes on to tell of his personal growth in terms of loving the game, and how he loves it more now than he did as a kid. Enjoy!
Never Far from Home Ep. 98 - Data Points
Paul Podkulski became involved with hockey as a fan as a young child. He grew up in upstate New York, but because of family, he was a Flyers fan. We go through his fandom, and how he eventually found himself working for a company that has the NHL as a client. Paul also shares some stories about Florida hockey players. Enjoy his many tales, and details.
Never Far from Home Ep. 97 - Go Figure...
On a special edition of the pod, I am joined by two figure skaters to tell some great stories. Alex and Michelle Aiken chat about their respective time growing up within the figure skating world, and they touch on histories that include a combined 13 national championship appearances, with five medals. They also talk about their transitions into the coaching world, and just what the community of the rink has meant to them. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 96 - Back and Forth
Dajon Mingo began his journey in the rink on figure skates. He participated in that capacity from 5-7, then found himself in hockey. He talks about his journey from his time in the youth leagues of Michigan, through his junior career, and into his pro days. He tells stories along the way, and it was a great chat with another good hockey guy. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 95 - Jax Ice
Laura Belluccia was a figure skater in her younger days when she grew up near Tampa. She got into a few of her favorite memories from her younger time, but our conversation quickly led to her current tales. We talked about the ideas of rink, community, and what those things can do for everyone who participates. Enjoy our chat!
Never Far from Home Ep. 94 - Gin
Kevin Gintoli began playing around nine, and it was my pleasure to talk to him. Our conversation spanned his days playing competitively at the youth level, through his time in the beer leagues, where all roads lead. More importantly to both of us, we were able to touch on the factor of family. He was the fourth of four siblings I have had the pleasure of interviewing, and we went into what family means to him. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 93 - Ice Tigers
Jimi Drinkall began playing hockey in his twenties, after attending a professional game in his local rink. He loved the physical side of the game, and found himself a home with the Ice tigers within the first year or so of trying the sport. Enjoy his many tales from starting to play, to the adversity he faced with only six members of a squad, all the way to rebuilding an organization into one of inclusivity. Jimi was a great first interview from across the pond.
Never Far from Home Ep. 92 - Skittles
Garrett Gintoli was born in to the hockey life. He talks about his first experiences within the rink, and gets in to his other timeline impacts. This one went a little off the rails, but was a fantastic interview with yet ANOTHER member of Clan Gintoli. Enjoy the latest installment.
Never Far from Home Ep. 91 - Ice Rink Casinos
Michele Gintoli began playing at the same time as two of her brothers, and quickly was drawn in to love the game of hockey. She talks about her storyline, which includes girls teams in her youth days, and coaching more recently. She also continues playing on a woman's team. Enjoy the many tales she slings around, as the second Gintoli to captivate the NFFH audience this week.
Never Far from Home Ep. 90 - Buffalo Gold
Peter Gintoli began playing when he was four. His family all jumped in to the sport, and the four kids playing was the first introduction that mom and dad had to the hockey scene. Things progressed from it being something fun, to the realization that he could take it somewhere, and Peter did. He talks about his lengthy career including time in High School, Juniors, College, Semi-pro, and also we dive into his time on Team USA. Enjoy his many stories.
Never Far from Home Ep. 89 - The Kimchi Cup
Paul Novak was born and raised in Germany. His father was a sports fanatic, and Paul, along with his older brother Joe, both followed suit. Paul grew up in the rink community, and played hockey for years. His journey has taken him all around the world, for work, and he tells tales from each point along the way. That includes his time in Korea, organizing the Kimchi Cup. Enjoy his rich history of travel, and hockey.
Never Far from Home Ep. 88 - The Hockey Recap
Matt Schoepflin was another guest born into hockey. His father played, and had a love of the game, and it bled over to Matt. He grew up in Colorado, played most of his youth hockey there, then ended up at a boarding school, and then played four years of college. He went on to coach, and has great stories he shares from all those avenues he has explored within the rink community. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 87 - The Middlebury Child
Katie Mandigo was born into hockey. She was skating from a very young age, and found a passion for the game she knew she wanted to pursue as far as it would take her. She told me stories about growing up around the rink at Middlebury, where her father coaches the women's team, including one about some puck snowmen... I hope you enjoy her many tales as much as I did!
Never Far from Home Ep. 86 - Washington Pride
Kush Sidhu grew up playing hockey in Montreal. He moved stateside, and continued to grow his love for the game, eventually finding himself working with Northeastern as a goalie, then a goalie coach for the girls side of things. He has many tales from his playing days, and even more from the coaching standpoint. Enjoy his many stories.
Never Far from Home Ep. 85 - Like Father, Like Daughter
Alexis Pearson never played organized hockey. While she grew up in Minnesota, and skated in her early days, she never found herself in organized forms of the sport we love. Her father did, however, find the passion within his little girl when she was almost twelve. Alexis talks about knowing, from her early teens, that she wanted to partake in the sport at its highest level, in the capacity of broadcasting. Enjoy her tales of the path she has made for herself to this point, and the success she has already found.
Never Far from Home Ep. 84 - "Middlebury Bill" Mandigo
Bill Mandigo grew up playing hockey, and had a great head start, as his father was a player himself. We delve into a few of his stories from his time spent playing, but things ramp up when the conversation shifts to coaching. His stories span time spent at a number of different schools, before he finally landed at Middlebury. His coaching has spanned decades, and his tales are just as impressive as the number. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 83 - "Middlebury Bill" Beaney
Bill Beaney Grew up in Lake Placid. He was skating from the age of two or three, and forged a love of the game in one of the most prolific sporting communities in America. He tells tales of his competitive playing days, including a four year stint at UNH. Our conversation also heads into his robust coaching career, and the many connections and relationships he has made through his time as a bench boss. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 82 - Baby bump scrums
Jessi Pierce became fascinated with hockey, and the rink, at a young age. She grew up a fan, but became more heavily involved her senior year of high school, when she was the statistician for her high school team. We go in to the tales of her time in college, running around between her 18 internships, then head through her path that lead her back to Minnesota, and eventually in to her job with the NHL. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 81 - Hockey gives, and hockey takes
Matt Billman got introduced to hockey in the roller rink, and found an immediate love for the game. He quickly realized he was destined for the ice, after an encounter with an olympic sized rink, and his story was only just beginning. We discuss his time as a competitive player, through his college years, his stint working for the UFC, some coaching, and of course we tie it all together with the beer leagues. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 80 - Fandom
Brandon Enroth had his addiction to hockey begin when he started watching the game. He talks about going to his first Capitals game with his dad, and the love of the sport that was born from it. He played some roller and street hockey as a kid, and began ice in high school. His tales span his years as a fan, to those playing competitively, and of course, his journey to the beer league. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 79 - B-roll
Harry Gehring began skating early in life, and played organized hockey starting around five. He spent most of his childhood in Minnesota, headed to St. Louis for college, and found himself in DC eventually. His tales span his years from the competition of youth, to the beer league mentality as an adult. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 78 - How to Goalie
Rugge Preto started playing hockey when he was an early teen. He grew up in Argentina, and talks about his experiences that lead to him falling in love with the game, and eventually taking it to the highest level he could in his home country. He has great tales of travel to Canada to represent his country, then again to Germany for the World Cup. I hope you enjoy them as much as I did. (Please forgive the audio, as the internet connection was poor.)
Never Far from Home Ep. 77 - Side-Eye
Heather Lorden got involved in the skating world at a very young age. She was instantly drawn to the rink, and quickly moved through the figure skating ladder. Her journey includes stops in Steamboat, where she began, CSU, where she came upon some realizations of times since past, and finds itself currently on the lakes of Wisconsin. Enjoy her many tales.
Never Far from Home Ep. 76 - The Roamer
Patrick Spengler got involved in hockey as little later on than most, but found a passion for the community. He speaks on his love of improvement, personally challenging himself to get better each time on the ice. He also dives into the camaraderie of the rink, an spect that hits home for so many folks who are a part of it. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 75 - Driver of the bus
Sara Mortel was born into hockey and the rink. She loved the game right away, and has been in many different capacities, but most prominently was a player and coach. She tells many stories that span her playing years, then dives into coaching, both her own, and some of her idols including her father. Enjoy the many tales she has to share.
Never Far from Home Ep. 74 - MAC(K)
Meghan Koupal got involved with hockey a little later in life, but had a good basis of sport through her youth, playing both soccer and basketball in high school. She transitioned to a full-time soccer player in college, then finally began skating competitively when she returned to Colorado after graduation. She tells stories of her early days in an intro to hockey class, and her quick movement into coed leagues, and eventually touches on her time with the Chix with Sticks in Steamboat. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 73 - Political Science
Jake Berube has been playing hockey in one form or another since early childhood. He began with roller hockey, transitioned to ice hockey, and off the mic we talked about one of his more recent endeavors, ball hockey. His tales include days spent in house league, his first foray into travel teams, then his eventual junior experience and college. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 72 - Skate-less
Brendan Selby began playing when he was four or five years old. While he is a younger guest on the pod, he has a history of playing, and now, has coached for multiple years. Enjoy the tales he shares from his playing days, to talk on those he idolized professionally, and then of course, we hear some of his favorite stories involving the game.
Never Far from Home Ep. 71 - That's Aho
Michael Lee began playing hockey in his mid-thirties, but was involved with the rink from his high school days when he was a skate guard. He tells of his childhood, growing up as the middle child of three, and with parents who were behind their kids the whole way. We explore everything, from those beginnings, to his time as a father, and everything in between. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 70 - Rink Rust
Thomas Larson got a later start in hockey than some. He began skating at 10, and playing at 11. He talks about his quick upward trajectory in the game, injuries in Juniors that began to take their toll, and his eventual hand he was dealt. While he was "forced" out of playing competitively, he found the game again, and it helped him out of the same darkness its absence had put him in. Enjoy his tales, from success to struggle. He is another guest who was, and is still to a degree, defined by the game.
Never Far from Home Ep. 69 - Glenn Allen adventures
Dan Greeson played hockey most of his youth. He tells about the impacts the game had on him, with a unique look on things, because of his remote village he spent most of his childhood in. Hockey is hockey, but it can mean different things to different people, and teach lessons in new ways. Dan explores that idea somewhat. He has not played since his senior year of high school, his last game being the state championship game. That being said, he walks through life today shaped by the many lessons he took away from the game. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 68 - On the farm
Spencer Neville began playing hockey seemingly right away, when it became available. She talks about moving through life, balancing a heavy school load with both hockey and soccer, and eventually, finding different ways to love the game. Spencer helped to start a women's program at George Washington, and recalls some of the early days and what it looked like for the girls wanting to be on the ground floor in the effort. Enjoy her many tales, for such a young hockey player.
Never Far from Home Ep. 68 - On the farm
Spencer Neville began playing hockey seemingly right away, when it became available. She talks about moving through life, balancing a heavy school load with both hockey and soccer, and eventually, finding different ways to love the game. Spencer helped to start a women's program at George Washington, and recalls some of the early days and what it looked like for the girls wanting to be on the ground floor in the effort. Enjoy her many tales, for such a young hockey player.
Never Far from Home Ep. 67 - GW2
Lauren Bolger began playing hockey after trying out figure skating first. She then watched her brother play, and decided that the sport of choice would require pads. Her stories span triumph, with a Tier 1 team, learning to be a leader from upperclass teammates, then being that leader to those who came up next. She talks of college hockey, and the locker room, and everything that makes her love the sport, and the community. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 66 - Confidence Regained
Libby Lukens began skating when she was only four years old. Spurred on my her two older siblings having played hockey, she put the gear on, and found the love of the game for herself. The sport took her to places she never thought she would play, and gave her many lessons that she could take with her in to her day to day life. Enjoy her tales, from humility, to a rebirth of sorts. This young lady has some good ones.
Never Far from Home Ep. 65 - Whammer Time
Chris Hagen began playing ice hockey when he was nine, but he had been participating in some whammer time for a year or two prior. He quickly found his love for the game, and continued to grow with the game, and soon enough he would claim it as a big piece of his identity. Chris played for the University of Michigan club team, and was it’s captain. He then went on a great adventure for the years after college, before finally making his way back to Steamboat for another stretch of time. Enjoy his great tales, full of a love for hockey, and some harder moments, within family.
Never Far from Home Ep. 64 - Space Station
Eric Dorris began playing hockey in his mid-forties after seeing the excitement it brought his kids. He grew up in sports, mostly football through high school, then in college he found rugby. That stayed with him right up until he began playing on the frozen serengeti. Now, years into his latest sport endeavor, he has no plans of slowing down, having connected with another phenomenal community. Enjoy his stories.
Never Far from Home Ep. 63 - Dawg Nation
Martin Richardson and Mike Freeman joined me on this special round table episode. They talked about Dawg Nation Hockey Foundation, the big Ice Complex project that they are working on, and also go into a few stories about the beginning of the foundation, as well as Mike's introduction to it. Enjoy their tales, and key in on how YOU can contribute to make a reality of this phenomenal plan.
Never Far from Home Ep. 62 - El Pres.
Martin Richardson began playing organized hockey later in life, but grew up skating on ponds all around Colorado. He has always had a passion for the game, and came to find himself at the helm of the Dawgs early in the 2000's. Years later, and per circumstance, he founded Dawg Nation Hockey Foundation. While it is an incredible organization which helps those in need, the origin story will likely bring a tear to your eye. Enjoy his tales, of sorrow, and triumph.
Never Far from Home Ep. 61 - Dammit Tom
Tom Krabacher began playing hockey at a young age, but nothing organized till his adult years. He had a good introduction to the skating, though, so hew quickly moved up the adult league ranks. In the midst of childhood, he tried many different sports, and eventually landed on football, and played in college. Enjoy his stories from his sporting days, to playing rec hockey, and of course, we included some Trash Panda talk.
Never Far from Home Ep. 60 - Dr. Saul Miller
Dr. Saul Miller is one of North America’s leading sport psychologists. He has a PhD in clinical psychology and is the author of eight books, including: Hockey Tough: A Winning Mental Game, Performing Under Pressure, and Why Teams Win. In sport, he has worked in the NFL, CFL, NBA, major league baseball, with PGA Tour golfers and Olympians from Canada, USA, and Europe in over a twenty different sports. Pro teams he’s worked with include: New York Mets, Seattle Mariners, BC Lions, Los Angeles Dodgers, Rams, and Clippers. In hockey he has worked in the NHL with the LA Kings, Florida Panthers, St. Louis Blues, Vancouver Canucks, Nashville Predators, and with individual players on half the teams in the NHL. He’s also consulted with over a dozen pro hockey teams in Switzerland, Germany, Italy, and Norway and with national hockey teams for Canada, Slovakia, Italy, and Switzerland. In Switzerland he’s been called “Meistermacher” (championship-maker). Dr. Saul has created a free youtube channel called Sport Psychology School: You can link to the channel here: https://goo.gl/TNBfrK
Never Far from Home Ep. 59 - Of life, and it's opposite
Hestia Chase grew up in Steamboat, mostly, and didn’t play much organized hockey in her youth. She was, however, very athletic, and shares some stories about other sports, and the impact they had, and continue to have, on her. She did play one year of U19, but has really gotten involved with the rink since reaching adulthood. Enjoy her stories, which will make you both laugh, and cry.
Never Far from Home Ep. 58 - Side Stories
Chris Porter grew up in Minnesota, and played hockey from a very young age. He Ended up playing competitively through college, and shares some of his stories from his youth-days. We work up the timeline from there, and the tales he has to share will likely make you laugh, and generally will fill your hockey soul. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 57 - Finesse
Michael Drennen started playing hockey at a later age, but came from a background of sports, specifically football and wrestling. He shares many tales, from the football field, to the wrestling mat, and of course, he speaks about the rink, and it’s community. Enjoy!
Never Far from Home Ep. 56 - Click Here
Andrew Bilski picked up hockey at a later age, but came from a background of sports, specifically football. He has many grand tales of friendships that he has made from the rink, after beginning his playing. That morphed into clock-work, DJ-ing, and generally being a rink rat. Enjoy his tales, as I did.
Never Far from Home Ep. 55 - Littlecorp
Jeremy Corporon was born in Texas, and that is close to all you need to know. He moved to Colorado when he was eight, and quickly picked up the game of hockey. For some odd reason, he didn't like the Avs as much as he did the Stars. We explore that question, and much more, including his trip to Europe, and his days spent working at the Howie Dome. Enjoy his tales.
Never Far from Home Ep. 54 - The Covid Chronicles
Hannah Westbrook Started playing hockey from an early age. With three older siblings, she was quickly introduced to a number of different sports, but hockey was the one that stuck. Having spent much of her youth in Wyoming, her horizons quickly expanded, and she now boasts a resume that includes professional stints in Sweden, Finland, and Australia. Since hanging up the playing skates, she has spent time in China as well. Enjoy the many stories she shares about her hockey experience. I did.
Never Far from Home Ep. 53 - MB Rules
MB Arce got into hockey a little later in life, but was a sporty gal for the better part of her childhood, though she didn't play organized sports until her high school years. An avid soccer player, she took her love of sport with her in to her studies, and is a personal trainer today. Enjoy her many stories, and excuse me if I tee her up to show off some of her knowledge and expertise. What can I say? MB rules.
Never Far from Home Ep. 52 - Mineral Media
Eli Zink had a little experience with hockey when he was a kid, but circumstance kept him from playing at length until adulthood. The basketball player turned hockey nut talks about his experiences within the game itself, at the beer league level, and of course, we talk about some family as well. Enjoy his many stories.
Never Far from Home Ep. 51 - "Cap"
Michael Arce began playing hockey later in life, but was a sportsman his whole youth, and through his early adult years. In a fun spin on an episode, he talks about his current job, as a Captain of the local Fire Department. It ties together with the connection of sport, and life!
Never Far from Home Ep. 50 - Filling in the gaps
Dylan Knudsen grew up playing in a small town in Northwest Colorado. He was lucky enough to have the Avs move to town as he was finding his love for the game, and he quickly was drawn to hockey in its entirety. Enjoy his tales from youth hockey, to the fabled beer leagues, including a stop in Iceland.
Never Far from Home Ep. 49 - Buff Pass Sunsets
Amanda Harclerode was a guest who was very sporty in her youth, but did not begin playing hockey until her later years. She found a quick affinity for the game and the camaraderie. Her stories come from a shorter timetable, but are no less poignant. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 48 - Steamboat Days
Max Atwell began playing when he was a young child. He grew up in the game, then stepped away for a couple years, before once more picking it up in Steamboat. He has some stories with his father, being an east coaster and avid Patriots fan, and tells of his annual trip to see the Bruins and Avs as well. Enjoy his tales.
Never Far from Home Ep. 47 - Staying Awake
Matt Graves began playing hockey later in life. He has an extensive sports background, including many years of skiing, both Nordic, and some alpine, and when he started participating in the rink community, he loved it. In an episode that is different than most to this point, enjoy our talk, as Matt explains what he does to stay “awake”.
Never Far from Home Ep. 46 - The Imp
Imperio the Churlish joined the podcast. I hope you enjoy the laughter, the tears, and the full-on emotion from this one. Mostly, I hope you laugh. A lot of episodes coming up here, have to have some fun.
Never Far from Home Ep. 45 - Airplanes and busses
Harriet Leeson started playing hockey around 11. She had been involved in Winter Sports Club in Steamboat, but had lost her love of skiing. A new passion formed at the rink, and she quickly picked up the game, and knew she wanted to take it as far as she could. As of this episode, you will find her on the roster for the CU squad. Enjoy her tales, from a small mountain town, to playing at the college level with people who are sure to be life-long friends.
Never Far from Home Ep. 44 - Mitch
Andrew Mitchell started hockey from a young age, being introduced to the sport through his dad. He fell in love with the game soon after, and continues to play today. Enjoy his tales, from the youth hockey days in Steamboat, through his days at UNH.
Never Far from Home Ep. 43 - "Talking Hockey"
Robbie Tesar got involved in the game of hockey at a young age. He was born in Edina, but moved to Illinois before he started playing competitively. His stories range all over the country, and he played some college at Connecticut. Enjoy his tales of the game, and what it has meant to him for so long.
Never Far from Home Ep. 42 - Gridiron to Barns
Anthony Frattini was a late comer to hockey. He tried skating when he was young, but didn't find the passion for the game and the community till he was eleven or twelve. Once he strapped the pads on for hockey, he quickly fell in love. He talks about his days playing high school hockey in New Jersey, through today, when he coaches, and gives back to the hockey community that way. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 41 - Of forest and ice
Kent Foster began his hockey career on the east coast. He played through the ranks, and eventually found himself in the Yampa Valley. His story includes going through the building of two rinks, and seeing their first years, to some great outside skating. Enjoy his many tales.
Never Far from Home Ep. 40 - The Street Life
Grady Koupal started playing hockey in a different form. He was a roller hockey enthusiast growing up in the San Jose area, and played from a young age all the way through his high school years. After some time off during and after college, he was re-introduced to the sport in its ice form. He quickly fell in love with the team aspect of it, and has been playing beer leagues since. Enjoy his tales.
Never Far from Home Ep. 39 - Major Payne
Loren Gorman started playing hockey more in depth in the bantam years. His family moved quite a bit, so he never got the chance to settle into roots, and play the sport until that time. He spent five or six years falling in love with it, then took a long break before returning to it once more in the last few years in Steamboat. He has plenty of stories, and we share plenty of laughs. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 38 - Apple Juice
Ricky Miles started playing when he was young. He quickly found his own love for the game of hockey, and knew he wanted to be a part of the community for as long as he could competitively. That love led him through a couple tough years, but he made it through, and is now playing college hockey. Enjoy his tales.
Never Far from Home Ep. 37 - Street Hockey Passions
Curtis McElhinney was born into hockey. Growing up in Canada he was lucky enough to play with some wonderful skaters. He found his passion in getting hit with the puck, and shares some of his stories from between the pipes, and in the locker room. Enjoy!
Never Far from Home Ep. 36 - Posts
Rebecca Brown got involved in hockey early, starting around four. She found a passion for the game, and knew pretty early on that she wanted to pursue it at a higher level. She was able to make that happen, playing college hockey for Utica. Enjoy her tales of the journey.
Never Far from Home Ep. 35 - Kylee Diamonds
Kyle Monger began playing hockey at seven or eight years old. He quickly learned to love the game, looking up to such players like Pavel Bure. As he moved around with life, hockey was a constant, and there were only a couple years he stepped away from the game. Enjoy his tales, and also his truths he shares, as others who have been on before him may have fabricated some stories. That is for you to decide.
Never Far from Home Ep. 34 - The Officials Circuit
Gary Pedigo was born into the game of hockey. He found himself on the rink at two, playing with his brother at an early age in their basement, and eventually, he found his own passion for the game in his early teens. That helped forge his officiating career which spanned 25 years of colligate reffing. Lately he has been behind the bench as a coach. Enjoy his tales...
Never Far from Home Ep. 33 - Eraser Buns
Nick Fettkether was introduced to the rink early on, but did not begin playing till he was a squirt. As he moved from town to town, his involvement in the game blossomed as well, as he took to officiating. That has stuck with him in to his adult years, and he even had a brief stint coaching. Nick has done many things within the game, and the community of the rink, truly epitomizing one who is Never Far from Home. Enjoy his tales.
Never Far from Home Ep. 32 - Full Circle
Chris Delaney got involved with hockey early. He was a figure skater his first two year, before being introduced to the game as a squirt. He talks about his stories from youth hockey, through his time at St. Sebastian's, and his pro career. Now a coach, Chris's tales often come "full-circle" in an enjoyable and relatable fashion.
Never Far from Home Ep. 31 - The Equestrian Connection
Ally Boglioli got involved in hockey at just four years old. She had a couple stints in her timeline where she stepped away from the rink for a piece of time, but it always drew her back in. She talked about her early days under coach Brooks, up through high school, and eventually in the Yampa Valley where she found her hockey family waiting for her with open arms. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 30 - Dinosaur Park
Kerry Shea got involved in the game of hockey at a young age. He was introduced to it when his father built a backyard rink that he and his siblings enjoyed. He chatted with me about his timeline from playing youth hockey in the Detroit area through his coaching days in Colorado. Now settled in Steamboat, he has a big presence in the local rink community. Enjoy his tales.
Never Far from Home Ep. 29 - Santa Fe Caboose
Kyle Cagnoni grew up in the game of hockey. He started skating when he was just four. He talks to NFFH about his days, from Santa Fe through his time in juniors. Enjoy the many tales he shares, about coaches, team mates, and family.
Never Far from Home Ep. 28 - The Mayor
Nikki Knoebel got involved in hockey in her adult years. She quickly came to realize she had a passion for the game, and more-so, for the community aspect of the rink. Enjoy her stories she tells from her early years of playing, through today. She has been involved in ABC tournaments, and has been a big proponent of her local rink in Oak Creek.
Never Far from Home Ep. 27 - The "Log" Sliver
Cori Ferenczy grew up in hockey. She settles the score with her sister Laura (See Ep. 25) about who made who quit after mini-mites. She goes on to tell some fantastic stories of her days in youth hockey, through playing in Steamboat, and finally finding her twin in Alaska. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 26 - Snow Squalls
Ashley Paulson began playing when she was just five. she continued playing through college, and eventually worked her way in to coaching. She joined me to talk about the stories along the way, and how she likes leading a prep team in Maine.
Never Far from Home Ep. 25 - The Short White Bus
Laura Bilski started skating when she was five years old. She loved the game right away, and found herself involved with it since those early days. She talks about her childhood, her high school years, and hockey-after-school. What an absolute pleasure it was, listening to Klarq.
Never Far from Home Ep. 24 - San Diego Beaches
Peter McNab was born in to the hockey world. His father was coaching at the time, and right away, Peter realized this was a game that had captured his heart. He talks to me about his time as a child moving from Canada to San Diego, and how his hockey path looked from a non-traditional market. Enjoy his many stories. I did.
Never Far from Home Ep. 23 - The Origin Stories
This is the inevitable episode. My Friend Mike Cochran (See Ep. 1) wanted to turn the tables on me and interview me. I have played, coached, reffed, announced, and worked at the rink since I was six. Enjoy a few of my stories.
Never Far from Home Ep. 22 - The Gatorade Kid
Conor McGahey grew up playing and reffing hockey, but quickly found his niche was outside the glass, announcing. He began announcing games for the Summit Tigers High School hockey team at Stephen C. West Arena, and now works for KSE, doing play-by-play for the Avalanche, amongst other duties. Enjoy his stories.
Never Far from Home Ep. 21 - Sippy Cup
Ryan Cagnoni was born in to the game of hockey. His dad was a big catalyst to introduce him to the game, but he found his own passion within it soon after. He travelled around the country playing the game he loved. Enjoy his stories from youth hockey in Santa Fe through his time with numerous junior teams around the country.
Never Far from Home Ep. 20 - The Naked Skate
Abby Kurtz-Phelan grew up in both the hockey and soccer worlds. She has a rich history of success in both, and eventually played both sports in college. Her hockey stories range from her early years playing on boys teams, to playing with just girls through high school, and winning three national championships in college. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 19 - For the love of the game
Jon Winkelblech has spent his whole life involved in the game of hockey. He played, and began reffing the first year he could don the zebra sweater. While splitting his time was difficult, it allowed him opportunities to continue in the game he loved that may not have otherwise presented themselves. He is still involved in the game. Enjoy his stories.
Never Far from Home Ep. 18 - 3 a.m. Zam rides
Walshy grew up in a hockey house. From a young age he was at the rink watching his dad ref, and eventually he found himself playing goalie. He still tends net today, and his passion has not dwindled for the game that has given him so many family members.
Never Far from Home Ep. 17 - Coaching is Poaching
Brent "Benny" Tollar has been involved with hockey since he was born into it in Minnesota. He convinced his parents to finally let him play when he was a squirt, and his passion for the game drove him to play through college. He began coaching after, and has been involved in numerous capacities inside the game since. He has great stories to tell. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 16 - Big Z
Zac has been in the hockey community since he was born in Calgary, though he began playing when his family moved to Brighton, CO. He continued to play through college, before coaching became his connection to the game. Enjoy his stories.
Never Far from Home Ep. 15 - Cortina, my Queen
Ryan Dingle was born in to the hockey community. He had a robust career that included a National Championship with DU, and many years of pro hockey in both North America and Europe. He speaks on some of the tales in this edition of Never Far from Home.
Never Far from Home Ep. 14 - The Viking
Yancey started playing hockey at nine, and also delved into lacrosse and football. He grew up in Alabama, but has landed in Colorado, and continued to pursue his passion, coaching young men, and teaching them lessons they will take with them into life. Enjoy the stories from The Viking.
Never Far from Home Ep. 13 - The Cursed Player
Mason Bates got started a lot later than many hockey players nowadays, but he has since participated in the sport for over 15 years. He has travelled the world pursuing his passion, and has great stories of his times within the game at a competitive level, and up in to the beer leagues.
Never Far from Home Ep. 12 - Big Brother
Danny got in to hockey when he was seven years old. He has skated most years since, in one capacity or another. His love of the game brought him to the brink of college, then home again. Enjoy one of the younger guests to be on NFFH, and his great stories.
Never Far from Home Ep. 11 - King of the C League
Zach Murphy has been a part of the hockey community going on 20 years. He has skated out, played goalie, coached, and been a scorekeeper. However he is needed, he figures out a way to help, all the while staying close to the game he has come to love in adulthood.
Never Far from Home Ep. 10 - My friend, the Red Wings fan
Kyle Pastor started playing hockey as soon as he got his first pair of shoes. He has been in the game for over 30 years, and shares some of his great memories with NFFH. Enjoy.
Never Far from Home Ep. 9 - Brain Games
Nic Has been involved with hockey from the outset. His older brother (16 years his senior) was the first one to get involved, and his family had tight roots to skating as it was. It was a natural fit for him to play, and he has been skating and playing the game we love for over 30 years.
Never Far from Home Ep. 8 - There and back again
Joe Novak was born in to hockey. His father played the game, and imparted his passion to Joe at a young age. Now, with over 60 years playing, reffing, coaching, and managing the sport, he shares his history, and some of his best memories.
Never Far from Home Ep. 7 - The Wonder Bread Story
Blair Mcnamara has been involved with hockey in one capacity or another for 47 years as of this episode. He sits down with me to discuss some of his story, and to recall a few memories that would have otherwise been left alone.
Never Far from Home Ep. 6 - The Face-off Specialist
Gabe Gauthier is the current Director of Foothills Hockey. He has spent 32 years in the game as of the publication of this episode, even appearing in a few NHL preseason games. He explores some memories from his younger days, and gets in to some details about his current roll and his outlook for hockey. Gabe was our first guest to cry on the show.
Never Far from Home Ep. 4 - Planet Hockey
Shawn Killian is the Founder & President of Planet Hockey. He has been at this for over 20 years, and continues to spark the interest of youth all across the nation with his summer camps. Steve Strunk is the Vice President of Planet Hockey, and Shawn's right hand man. Between the two of them, there is enough hockey knowledge and passion to spark change inside of a community. This was extra special for me, as I partook in their camps twenty years ago, and I am lucky enough to have been brought back in to their circle in this new capacity all these years later.
Never Far from Home Ep. 3 - The "Plug"
Nick Carelli is the Adult Sports Coordinator in Steamboat, and one of the best players in the small community. He has 20+ years in hockey as of this episode, and continues to impart his knowledge to the next generation of players. He is passionate, and his love for the game is unmatched.
Never Far from Home Ep. 2 - "Hey, ref, I found your phone, you have four missed calls."
Connor Glynn is an Ice Hockey Official trying to make his way to the highest level of hockey, the NHL. He has been playing and reffing for 18 years as of this episode. His father, Scott Glynn, is a Golf Pro who has been playing and reffing for 22 years as of this recording. Both must have a knack for getting yelled at...
Never Far from Home Ep. 1 - Mr. Extrovert
Mike Cochran is the Crew Leader at the "Howie Dome", Howelsen Ice Arena, in Steamboat. He is the prototypical hockey guy, who has played for 24 years as of this episode. While it was like pulling out teeth to get an extended answer from him, he did a surprisingly good job.