Crazy Hockey Dads Podcast

What matters, what doesn’t, and what’s actually next.

This week, Scott and Jamie sit down with Doug Christiansen, former D1 and pro player, ECHL GM/Head Coach, Team USA U17 Coach, USHL Deputy Commissioner, and current ECAC Hockey Commissioner, to dig into the real layers of youth hockey development - not the fantasy version parents like to believe. From the myths of early exposure to the truth about who’s really watching, Doug lays out a grounded, honest roadmap for families who want to support their player without losing the plot.

In this episode:
- Why more minutes at the right level beats fewer minutes at the top
- The real traits scouts and coaches look for - and when it matters
- The importance of strong local development, not early exits
- How ego and over-scheduling derail progress
- Why a kid’s mental and emotional readiness matters more than tier

If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re helping or just hurrying the process, Doug’s perspective is a must-listen. Smart, specific, and rooted in decades of experience - without the sales pitch.

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