The Hockey Lab Podcast

This week on The Hockey Lab Podcast, Coach A and Coach Gards break down what makes hockey culture so special — from PWHL players getting ready for training camp and wild goalie stories to one of the biggest contract discounts in the league.

They dive into:

The pre-camp grind and how players prep for the season 🏒

Rent-a-goalie stories you won’t believe 🧤

Why one NHL star’s massive pay cut is a legacy move

The balance between winning, culture, and long-term development

Real talk. Real stories. Real hockey.

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In this Mindset Monday episode, Coach A breaks down one of the hardest moments in any athlete’s journey — being called out by your coach. From his own experience as a fighter training under coach Linden Whitlock, he shares how learning to separate intent from delivery changed everything.

If you struggle with feedback, this is your playbook for emotional control, accountability, and growth.

🎙 Hosted by Coach A
📍 Powered by Gary Roberts High Performance Training

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SPONSORS OF THE POD
This podcast is proudly sponsored by Gary Roberts Performance (GRP) — the ultimate...

In this episode of The Hockey Lab Podcast, Coach A and Coach Gards sit down with Karl Stewart — former NHL player and current NHL scout — to talk about what it really takes to make it in hockey.

From the disappointment of going undrafted to carving out a career through grit, adaptability, and identity, Karl shares stories from his time in the OHL, the NHL, and overseas — and the lessons that shaped his approach to scouting and player development today.

💬 Topics include:

The long car ride home after going undrafted

How finding an identi...

In this episode of Mindset Monday, Coach A breaks down one of the biggest mindset traps in sports — comparison.

We live in a world of constant metrics, rankings, and highlights. It’s easy to compare yourself to teammates, players in the league, or even the best in the world. But comparison kills growth.

Sports should be about personal development — becoming a better version of yourself each day. When you stop comparing and start focusing on your own progress, everything changes.

🎯 In this episode:

Why comparison is the thief of joy

The di...

In Episode 54 of The Hockey Lab Podcast, Coach A, Coach Gards, and Coach Sylvie (Director of Nutrition at GRP) break down how athletes can fuel properly during the season — from game day meals to recovery strategies, and even how parents can help set their kids up for success.

From keeping weight on during a busy schedule, to late-night tournament meals, to why sleep is just as important as protein, this episode delivers practical advice for players and parents who want to get the most out of all the work put in during the offseason.

🎯 In this...

In Episode 76 of Mindset Monday, Coach A shares a simple but powerful message: you’ll rarely have perfect conditions — in training, in school, in business, or in life. But you can still choose to execute with what you’ve got.

From athletes battling injuries to everyday challenges where nothing feels ideal, the answer is almost never “do nothing.” There’s always something you can do — train your core, sharpen your stickhandling, study film, or just show up with effort.

🎯 In this episode:

Why “perfect” conditions are a myth

How to keep training and progress...

In Episode 53 of The Hockey Lab Podcast, Coach A, Coach Gards, and Coach Brian break down the full cycle — from how this offseason shaped up at GRP HQ, to the chaos of training camps, and what smarter in-season training should actually look like.

From injuries and nagging issues that players carry into summer, to the demands of junior and pro camps, the guys share stories, lessons, and practical takeaways for players, parents, and coaches who want to do things right.

🎯 In this episode:

Why this past offseason sent players to camp more prepared than...

In this episode of Mindset Monday, Coach A breaks down one of the biggest difference-makers in success: your environment.

Talent, skill, and even the perfect program won’t matter if the people and culture around you are pulling you in the wrong direction. Your environment should challenge you, hold you accountable, and push you toward the version of yourself you’re chasing.

🎯 In this episode:

Why the right environment beats the “perfect” program

How accountability partners and culture drive consistency

Lessons from Coach A’s own career on the cost of stayi...

In this episode of Mindset Monday, Coach A breaks down a powerful truth: you don’t always have to believe in the end goal right away — you just need to believe in your ability to get better.

Doubts and insecurities are normal. The championship, the top line, the NHL, the big dream — all of it can feel overwhelming. But progress doesn’t come from believing you’ll win it all on Day 1. It comes from stacking small wins, step by step, and letting the process compound over time.

🎯 In this episode:

How to succeed even...

In Episode 51 of The Hockey Lab Podcast, Coach A and Coach Gards cover a little bit of everything — from the infamous “beep test vs. beef test” slip-up, to pros vs. joes moments at GRP HQ, to the wild sticks and setups some of our players bring through the door.

But the real meat of the convo dives into the jump from minor hockey → junior → pro:
🔥 What the demands actually look like at each level
🔥 OHL vs NCAA development schedules — which prepares you better?
🔥 How pros structure their in-season training, recovery, and nutrition
🔥 Why culture makes or breaks...

In Episode 50 of The Hockey Lab Podcast, Coach A and Coach Gards break down the end-of-summer grind at GRP HQ and what it means as athletes transition into training camp season. From the bad habit of rushing through drills to the lessons players should carry into camp, they dig into how attention to detail separates the good from the great.

🔥 In this episode:

Why rushing through drills can kill development (and how to fix it)

Training camp realities: bag skates, compete level, and making an impression

Lessons from pros on consistency whe...

In Episode 49 of The Hockey Lab Podcast, Coach A and Coach Gards are back after a long overdue break to talk all things GRP’s new era—from the chaos of opening our brand-new facility to the culture that’s been building between pros, youth athletes, and executives under one roof.

They break down summer training takeaways, lessons learned from world-class players, and why simplicity in training often beats flashy, sport-specific trends. Plus, updates from Team Canada camps, standout stories from the off-season, and the habits young players should be mirroring from the pros.

🔥 In this epis...

In this episode of Mindset Monday, Coach A delivers a must-hear message for every athlete: if you want to see real progress, you have to build season over season.

Whether it's strength, speed, skill development, or nutrition—results don’t happen in 8 weeks. They come from showing up, stacking reps, and doing the work when no one’s watching.

🎯 In this episode:

Why one great offseason isn’t enough

What “compound interest” looks like in athlete development

A reality check on expectations vs. process

How to stay focused on the...

In Mindset Monday #72, Coach A breaks down a truth every athlete needs to hear: growth and comfort can't exist at the same time.

Whether it’s lifting weights, eating for performance, or chasing a spot at the next level—the process will be uncomfortable. And that’s exactly how it should be.

This week’s message: embrace the hard. Stay in it longer than the rest.

🎯 In this episode:

Why discomfort is the price of progress

The mindset behind physical and mental growth

How to embrace the challenge i...

In this week’s Mindset Monday, Coach A explores the idea that every athlete walks a different path—and that’s not only okay, it’s necessary.

Whether you’re a late bloomer, a role player, or someone who’s still figuring it out, this episode is your reminder that comparison kills momentum. Lean into your strengths, own your weaknesses, and keep showing up.

🎯 In this episode:

Why no two players develop the same way

How to stop comparing and start focusing

The power of consistency over time

Trusting you...

“I’ll start when…” is holding you back.

In this episode of Mindset Monday, Coach A challenges you to stop waiting for the perfect moment and start now—whether it’s a new training plan, team, nutrition habit, or skill. You’re going to feel uncomfortable. You’re going to be bad at it. And that’s exactly how progress begins.

The fear of looking stupid or failing can’t outweigh the potential of where you’ll be in 6, 12, or 24 months. Show up. Execute. Repeat.
This is how compound success is built.

🎯 Listen. Execute. Improve...

In Episode 48 of The Hockey Lab Podcast, Coach A and Coach Gards sit down with Coach Luke, our head of speed and agility at GRP, to talk all things off-ice speed development, why intent matters more than perfect technique, and how to structure effective sprint sessions for athletes of all ages.

They also touch on NHL and OHL playoff updates, some hilarious coaching stories, and what it really takes to get faster—on and off the ice. From hill sprints to sprint mechanics, this is your full-speed offseason guide.

🔥 In this episode:

Speed testin...

In Episode 69 of Mindset Monday, Coach A delivers a no-fluff breakdown of why believing in your training and committing to the process is more important than chasing the “perfect” plan.

Drawing from Canada’s recent struggles in international play and what he’s seen firsthand in the gym, Coach A challenges players and families to stop bouncing from coach to coach and instead build long-term trust, consistency, and intent.

Because at the end of the day—a good program executed with full belief will always beat a great one done halfway.

🔥 In this episode:

In Episode 46 of The Hockey Lab Podcast, Coach A & Gards dive into the heart of playoff season—breaking down the pressure of playing in Canadian markets, the intensity of the NHL and OHL playoffs, and what these high-stakes moments teach us about preparation, resilience, and mental toughness.

They also discuss key takeaways from recent CHL standouts, including what separates good players from great ones at the junior level. The second half of the episode shifts focus to the offseason prep window—why so many youth athletes get it wrong, how to approach GPP (General Physical Preparation) the righ...

Cody Hodgson sits down with Coach A and Gards to share his incredible journey—from battling Malignant Hyperthermia, a rare and life-altering medical condition, to making a remarkable comeback to pro hockey, and now turning his focus to coaching the next generation of athletes.

Cody opens up about the mental and physical challenges he’s faced, the lessons he’s learned along the way, and how his experiences have shaped his approach to life, performance, and mentorship.

🔥 In this episode:
✅ Cody’s battle with Malignant Hyperthermia
✅ His mindset through recovery and comeback
✅ Transitioning fro...

In this episode of The Hockey Lab Podcast, Coach A sits down with Coach Hugo to talk about his path to joining the Gary Roberts Performance team. From starting as an intern to becoming a key part of the coaching staff, Hugo shares the steps he took, the challenges he faced, and the valuable lessons he's learned along the way.

They dive into the realities of working in high-performance sport, what it takes to grow in a competitive environment, and how the GRP team continues to shape his personal and professional development.

🔥 In this episode, we...

Great athletes aren’t just physically gifted—they’re coachable.

In this episode of Mindset Monday, Coach A breaks down why taking feedback from coaches is a crucial part of growth. Whether it’s tough to hear or not what you expected, learning to receive and apply feedback separates average from elite.

SPONSORS OF THE POD

This podcast is proudly sponsored by Gary Roberts Performance (GRP)—the ultimate training destination for elite hockey players. If you’re serious about taking your game to the next level, GRP offers comprehensive programs designed to unlock your full poten...

In Episode 43 of The Hockey Lab Podcast, Coach A & Gards are back with a packed episode that covers it all—from a wild trip to Vegas to 28 actionable offseason tips every hockey player should hear. Whether you're a junior player gearing up for your next season or a parent looking to support your athlete, this episode is full of practical takeaways.

We also break down the OHL Playoffs—what we’ve seen so far, standout performances, and what it takes to perform when everything’s on the line.

🔥 In this episode:
✅ Behind-the-scenes from the Vegas trip

Pain isn’t just part of the process—it’s where growth happens.

In this episode of Mindset Monday, Coach A dives deep into the role of suffering in sport and training and why some of the most valuable lessons come from the toughest moments. From gruelling workouts to heartbreaking losses, discomfort teaches athletes resilience, accountability, and how to push through when it matters most in sport and life.

Whether you’re in the gym, on the ice, or in a slump—learning to embrace the suffering is often what separates good from great.

SPONSORS...

Knowing your role on the ice and within your team is key to success.   Not everyone can be McDavid, and that’s not the point—hockey’s about finding your strengths, owning them, and getting better at what you do best. Tune in for a conversation that’ll inspire you to sharpen your skills, embrace your unique contribution, and elevate your game!

SPONSORS OF THE POD

This podcast is proudly sponsored by Gary Roberts Performance (GRP)—the ultimate training destination for elite hockey players. If you’re serious about taking your game to the next level, GRP offers compreh...

Coach A & Gards break down the wrap-up of the highly successful Four Nations Faceoff, revealing key insights about the future of hockey. 🏒🔥

Gards also highlights the minor hockey playoff season across the GTA—what it takes to perform under pressure and how young players can stand out.

Plus, a look at the in-between season, as GRP gears up for summer training and the work that separates the best from the rest.

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Thanks for checking out the pod!

We're on a mission to help 1 million hockey players level up their ga...

Your body language can make or break your game. In this Mindset Monday episode, Coach A explains how the way you carry yourself—on and off the ice—directly impacts performance, confidence, and even the way coaches and scouts perceive you.

Slumped shoulders after a bad shift? It lingers. Head up, next-play mentality? That’s what separates great players from the rest.

SPONSORS OF THE POD

This podcast is proudly sponsored by Gary Roberts Performance (GRP)—the ultimate training destination for elite hockey players. If you’re serious about taking your game to the next le...

Not all effort is created equal. In Mindset Monday #64, Coach A breaks down the 80/20 Rule—how 20% of your actions drive 80% of your results in training, recovery, and performance. Whether it’s refining your on-ice skills, dialing in nutrition, or optimizing recovery, focusing on what truly matters can make all the difference.

SPONSORS OF THE POD

This podcast is proudly sponsored by Gary Roberts Performance (GRP)—the ultimate training destination for elite hockey players. If you’re serious about taking your game to the next level, GRP offers comprehensive programs designed to unlock your full potential.

📲 Cli...

Accountability builds champions. Coach A shares a story about how Coach Brian called out the GR squad for a messy gym—forcing the team to step up, take ownership, and get the ship sailing straight again. Small details matter, and discipline off the ice translates to success on it.

Thanks for checking out the pod!

We’re on a mission to help 1 MILLION hockey players LEVEL UP their game—and if you’re ready to take your skills to the next level, you’re in the right place. Tune in every week for exclusive insights, pro-level ti...

In this episode, we break down the Four Nations Finals and what it revealed about the importance of team play in hockey. As the game evolves, are we losing the true essence of playing for something bigger than ourselves? We also dive into the OHL Draft, discussing the stress young players face in an increasingly individualistic system and how it impacts their development.

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Thanks for checking out the pod!

We're on a mission to help 1 million hockey players level up their game. If that sounds like something you’d be interested in, th...

On today's episode, Sylvie joins the team to chat about nutrition basics and why you need to be eating enough food. 

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Thanks for checking out the pod!

We're on a mission to help 1 million hockey players level up their game. If that sounds like something you’d be interested in, then don’t miss our weekly episodes. We’ll share our experiences, interview some of the top players in the game (old and new), and provide you with actionable tips, you know, things that actually make you a better player.

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In today's episode, Coach A talks diminsihing returns. Having the mental fortitude to rest when you need it is a skill all great athletes must learn. 

Thanks for checking out the pod!

We're on a mission to help 1 million hockey players level up their game. If that sounds like something you’d be interested in, then don’t miss our weekly episodes. We’ll share our experiences, interview some of the top players in the game (old and new), and provide you with actionable tips, you know, things that actually make you a better player.

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In today's episode, Coach A talks about Decision Fatigue and how it can impact performance. 

Thanks for checking out the pod!

We're on a mission to help 1 million hockey players level up their game. If that sounds like something you’d be interested in, then don’t miss our weekly episodes. We’ll share our experiences, interview some of the top players in the game (old and new), and provide you with actionable tips, you know, things that actually make you a better player.

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The Hosts 

Coach Adrian (A) @cham...

In today's episode, Coach A talks about the trap of playing down to your opponents and how you can avoid it. 

Thanks for checking out the pod!

We're on a mission to help 1 million hockey players level up their game. If that sounds like something you’d be interested in, then don’t miss our weekly episodes. We’ll share our experiences, interview some of the top players in the game (old and new), and provide you with actionable tips, you know, things that actually make you a better player.

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The Hos...

In today's episode, Coach A talks about blocking out distractions so you can stay focused on your goals. 

Thanks for checking out the pod!

We're on a mission to help 1 million hockey players level up their game. If that sounds like something you’d be interested in, then don’t miss our weekly episodes. We’ll share our experiences, interview some of the top players in the game (old and new), and provide you with actionable tips, you know, things that actually make you a better player.

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The Hosts 

Coach...

On today's episode, Coach A rips a solo pod talking about how to improve your shot. He covers technology, technique, training, and timing. 

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Thanks for checking out the pod!

We're on a mission to help 1 million hockey players level up their game. If that sounds like something you’d be interested in, then don’t miss our weekly episodes. We’ll share our experiences, interview some of the top players in the game (old and new), and provide you with actionable tips, you know, things that actually make you a better player.

...

In today's episode, Coach A talks about Coach Schwab and why training partners matter more than where you train. 

Thanks for checking out the pod!

We're on a mission to help 1 million hockey players level up their game. If that sounds like something you’d be interested in, then don’t miss our weekly episodes. We’ll share our experiences, interview some of the top players in the game (old and new), and provide you with actionable tips, you know, things that actually make you a better player.

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The Hosts 

C...

In today's episode, Coach A talks about why you should try to be perfect!

Thanks for checking out the pod!

We're on a mission to help 1 million hockey players level up their game. If that sounds like something you’d be interested in, then don’t miss our weekly episodes. We’ll share our experiences, interview some of the top players in the game (old and new), and provide you with actionable tips, you know, things that actually make you a better player.

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The Hosts 

Coach Adrian (A) @champion...

In today's episode, Coach A talks about goal setting for the second half of the season! 

Thanks for checking out the pod!

We're on a mission to help 1 million hockey players level up their game. If that sounds like something you’d be interested in, then don’t miss our weekly episodes. We’ll share our experiences, interview some of the top players in the game (old and new), and provide you with actionable tips, you know, things that actually make you a better player.

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The Hosts 

Coach Adrian...

In today's episode, Coach A talks about switching teams and why it is sometimes the best decision for you as a player. 

Thanks for checking out the pod!

We're on a mission to help 1 million hockey players level up their game. If that sounds like something you’d be interested in, then don’t miss our weekly episodes. We’ll share our experiences, interview some of the top players in the game (old and new), and provide you with actionable tips, you know, things that actually make you a better player.

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The...