Ep. 23 - More Than the Game: Coaching, Identity, and Finding Your Purpose with Nikita Krivokrasov

In this deeply moving episode, Frances sits down with hockey coach Nikita Krivokrasov for a conversation that goes far beyond the ice. Together, they explore identity, resilience, failure, purpose, and what it truly means to impact others.Nikita shares his personal journey through the highs and lows of pursuing hockey at a high level, the emotional weight of unmet expectations, and the powerful shift that came from letting go of control and embracing the present moment. Through coaching, he has found not just a new path, but a deeper purpose—helping others believe in themselves, push through adversity, and grow into who they are meant to be.This episode is about more than sports. It is about being human, doing the inner work, and choosing to turn pain into purpose.Show notesWhat happens when the identity you’ve built your entire life around suddenly shifts?In this episode, Frances is joined by Nikita Krivokrasov, a hockey coach whose impact reaches far beyond the rink. What begins as a conversation about coaching quickly unfolds into a powerful discussion about identity, failure, healing, and purpose.Nikita opens up about his journey through competitive hockey, the internal battles he faced, and how working with young athletes helped him rediscover joy, presence, and meaning. Frances and Nikita explore what it means to lead with both strength and compassion, how to connect deeply with others, and why living in the present moment is one of the most powerful tools we have.This conversation is a reminder that sometimes the path we didn’t plan is the one that leads us exactly where we’re meant to be.In this episode, we talk about:The connection between coaching, behavior, and human developmentHow to truly connect with and understand peopleNavigating identity after a major life shift or setbackLetting go of control and learning to live in the presentThe role of failure, adversity, and emotional growthCoaching with both firmness and compassionThe importance of authenticity and leading by exampleHow energy, mindset, and belief impact performance and growthWhy being different is a strength, not a weaknessTurning pain into purpose and impactKey takeaways:You are not defined by your title, role, or outcome. Who you are goes deeper.Everything you experience can serve a purpose if you are willing to learn from it.Presence is power. Living in the moment allows you to grow, connect, and perform at your best.True leadership comes from authenticity, compassion, and integrity.Growth requires honesty with yourself and the willingness to keep going, even when the path is unclear.Memorable quotes:“I can’t believe in you if you don’t believe in yourself.”“It’s okay not to know—but it’s not okay not to try to figure it out.”“You only have this moment. Be present, learn, and keep going.”Connect with Nikita Krivokrasov📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/krivo__25/📞 561-332-9465📧 [email protected] with The Play Base🌐 Website: www.us.theplaybase.com📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theplaybase/🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theplaybase📞561-463-8441