EP. 171 - Jared Aulin - Drafted 47th overall by the Colorado Avalanche & World Jr. Silver Medallist for Team Canada
We talk with Jared Allen about what actually builds a strong hockey player, and why the modern chase for status can quietly crush competition, creativity, and confidence. We also trace Jared’s path from top prospect to World Juniors to pro hockey, using injuries and setbacks as the lens for mindset, identity, and long-term development.
• Minor hockey becoming a business and what gets lost when families buy labels
• Why earning spots through real tryouts builds resilience and accountability
• The damage of constant comparison and the word “only” in youth sports
• Leaving space in the schedule to protect passion and spark self-driven growth
• WHL and draft-year pressure plus what adversity teaches when you survive it
• World Juniors selection pressure and the power of belonging to a team
• Pro hockey development challenges when role and ice time do not match skill
• Injury recovery as a mental battle and why kids must be people first
• Skills coaching principles: decision-making, head up habits, basics before viral moves
• The core message for players and parents: get uncomfortable and do not fear failure