Advertise on podcast: The Face-Off Spot with Adam Larson

In this deeply personal and refreshingly unconventional episode, Adam sits down with former NHL player Kurtis Gabriel to explore the journey from fighter to seeker. Gabriel shares how suffering, self-inquiry, and a transformative psychedelic experience opened the door to spirituality, the redefinition of ego, and a new identity centered on awareness rather than athletics. The conversation moves through his unlikely rise to the NHL, his groundbreaking Pride Tape moment, the value of yoga and union, and the belief that all people are fundamentally connected. Blending hockey stories with introspection and humor, this episode offers listeners a powerful look at growth, compassion, and what Gabriel calls “permanent happiness.”

Adam sits down with returning guest and hockey media personality Jeff Fink to talk about the rise of Texas hockey, adult-league culture, and the journey from fan to podcaster to industry insider.A nostalgic, funny, and heartfelt conversation about creativity, community, and why hockey people are just built differently.

We've hit 200 episodes, with a heartfelt reunion of original guests and a deep dive into coaching, friendship, and the life lessons hockey teaches. Join Adam, Newman, Garrett, and Steve as they reflect, laugh, and celebrate the journey.

On this episode of The Faceoff Spot, Adam chats with hockey creator Babs about content, coaching in the Fed, and embracing failure as part of growth. They dive into real stories, real advice, and what it means to stay authentic in a fast-moving media world.

This week on The Faceoff Spot, hockey dad Brandon Wilson joins Adam Larson to share his journey from rookie parent to goalie guru and team manager. He also spotlights Mission Equipped, a nonprofit empowering military and first responder families through youth sports.

This week on The Face-Off Spot, Adam sits down with four rink operations veterans from across North America for a roundtable full of ice talk, inside jokes, and behind-the-boards wisdom. From Zamboni blades to figure-eight cuts, the crew shares what really goes into keeping the ice perfect — and why the rink community feels like family. A must-listen for anyone who’s ever laced up skates or wondered how the magic happens before puck drop.

From quitting hockey at age 8 to launching one of the South’s most inspiring hockey brands, Hunter Bemies shares his journey on The Face Off Spot. Tune in for a conversation on southern pride, youth development, and growing the game where it’s needed most.

USA Today’s Kenny Jacoby returns to the show to discuss his explosive follow-up investigation into the Dallas Stars’ control over Texas youth hockey. From monopolistic practices to skyrocketing costs, Adam and Kenny dig deep into the ethics, legality, and community impact of one team’s dominance.

Ever wondered what it’s really like to be a hockey referee? In this roundtable episode, veteran officials share wild stories, hard truths, and plenty of laughs about the highs and lows of life in stripes.

Sean Connors returns to share insights on building resilient hockey players and supporting out-of-market programs in the Texas Hockey League. A must-listen for anyone passionate about growing the game in Oklahoma and beyond!

Steve Martinson joins The Face Off Spot to share his comeback story with the Allen Americans, revealing how new ownership is helping him rebuild a skilled, tough, and exciting team. Tune in to hear how Martinson plans to make Allen a force again both on and off the ice!

Adam Larson talks with Patrick Warrington, Deputy Commissioner of the Texas Hockey League, about rule enforcement, discipline, and building a positive hockey culture. Learn how the league is collaborating to make the game safer and more fun for everyone!

Commissioner Andy Gibson joins The Face Off Spot to discuss the new Texas Hockey League and its mission to bring transparency, inclusion, and structure to youth travel hockey. Hear how the league is evolving and what’s next for Texas and Oklahoma hockey communities.

Brenden Butler’s journey from youth hockey standout to cancer survivor is nothing short of inspirational. Tune in to hear how he turned life-altering adversity into a powerful coaching mission with the Texas Heat 14U team.

This week Adam talks with Doug “The Thug” Smith, the real-life inspiration behind the movie Goon. Doug shares his incredible journey from never skating as a kid to becoming a professional hockey enforcer, thanks to grit, boxing skills, and a supportive friend who helped tell his story in the book Goon. The conversation dives into Doug’s late start in hockey, his balancing act between law enforcement and pro fighting, and how Hollywood came knocking. It’s a raw, honest look at chasing unlikely dreams—and punching through every obstacle.