Johnny Hicks: 2026 National Champion & University of Denver Goaltender

Welcome to Episode 68 of the Dialed and Driven Mentality Podcast!

In this episode, Jeff Lerg and Natalie Ferenc sit down with 2026 National Champion and University of Denver goaltender Johnny Hicks — or more famously “Johnny Bricks.” From starting the season as Denver’s third-string goalie to becoming the backbone of a national championship run, Johnny shares one of the most inspiring goalie stories in college hockey.

Johnny opens up about the mindset shifts, preparation habits, and mental discipline that helped him stay ready when nobody outside the locker room expected him to be the guy. He dives into the power of his process, journaling, staying present, and embracing adversity — lessons that every athlete, parent, and goalie family can learn from.

From going winless during his first junior season to posting one of the greatest statistical seasons in NCAA history, Johnny’s journey is a masterclass in resilience, patience, and belief.

Episode Highlights:
• Johnny’s incredible rise from third-string goalie to securing the starting spot and becoming a national champion goaltender
• The mindset shift that changed the course of his season
• How Denver stayed committed to the process despite early-season struggles
• What it felt like stepping into meaningful NCAA D1 games for the first time
• The importance of staying ready even when you’re not playing
• Why “being where your feet are” became Johnny’s biggest mental performance tool
• How journaling helped him overcome overthinking and pressure
• The story behind Denver’s unforgettable Frozen Four run
• Johnny’s experience playing in elimination games and overtime moments 
• How he found peace and confidence under the biggest pressure of his career
• Lessons learned from adversity, setbacks, and doubters throughout his hockey journey
• The transition from BCHL and WHL hockey to NCAA Division I
• Superstitions, routines, and game-day habits behind “Johnny Bricks”
• Why staying level-headed is critical for long-term success
• Advice for young goaltenders chasing their dreams
• How Johnny balances hockey with life outside the rink to stay mentally fresh

AND SO MUCH MORE!

If you’re a goalie, athlete, coach, or parent looking for insight into what it truly takes to succeed at the highest level, this episode delivers powerful lessons on resilience, mindset, and preparation.

Stay present. Stay dialed. Stay driven.

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