Episode 36: Development Without Delusion (with Doug Christiansen)

Episode 36: Development Without Delusion (with Doug Christiansen)

1:33:00 Oct 16, 2025
About this episode
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 tierIf 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.Socials:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crazy.hockey.dadsX: https://x.com/CrazyhockeydadsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crazyhockeydadspodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576627751551
Select an episode
0:00 0:00