S2 Ep 38 - D1 Hockey Manager to 5-Time National Champion by Justin Kakuska

On this episode of Survive & Thrive 8791, I welcome Justin Kakuska to the Buck & Honey’s remote studios. Justin’s journey is a great reminder that sometimes the smallest opportunities can lead to something much bigger.After graduating from Waunakee High School, Justin headed to the University of Minnesota Duluth, where his first semester didn’t quite go as planned. With plenty of downtime and not much direction, he found himself searching for purpose. That changed after a chance connection with a women’s hockey team manager. While nothing came of it initially, that same connection reached back out after winter break—offering Justin a chance to help the team.He jumped at the opportunity, doing whatever was needed—mopping floors, doing laundry, and embracing the behind-the-scenes work that often goes unnoticed. That willingness to serve opened doors. After transferring to the University of Wisconsin–Madison, a connection helped him land interviews with the Badger women’s hockey program, including one with legendary head coach Mark Johnson.That moment changed everything.Justin worked his way up from student manager to his current role as Director of Hockey Operations and Video Coordinator. Along the way, he’s been part of one of the most successful programs in college hockey, contributing to five national championship teams.In this episode, Justin takes us behind the scenes of a championship culture, sharing the highs, the challenges, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. He also reflects on the confidence and trust instilled by Coach Johnson and how that support has shaped his growth.This is a story about showing up, doing the little things right, and trusting the process.