The Mental Game of Hockey: Insights from Former Pro Taylor Cook

In this episode of The Financial Power Play, host Brett Cranson speaks with Taylor Cook, a former professional hockey player turned mental coach. They discuss Taylor's journey from starting hockey at a young age, transitioning from player to goalie, and navigating the challenges of moving up through the ranks to university hockey and professional leagues overseas. Taylor shares her experiences with the mental side of the game, the importance of confidence, and her decision to pivot into mental coaching after her playing career. The conversation also touches on the financial hurdles faced when starting a new business and the evolution of financial awareness as a business owner.TakeawaysTaylor started playing hockey at the age of three.She transitioned from being a player to a goalie by chance.The journey to university hockey was filled with challenges.Taylor played overseas in Norway and Kazakhstan after university.The mental aspect of sports became important during her career.She decided to become a mental coach while still playing.Starting a business comes with its own set of challenges.Financial awareness has improved since her playing days.Confidence can be trained like any other skill.Taylor aims to work with national level teams in the future.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Journey03:03 From Player to Goalie: A Unique Transition05:47 Navigating the Path to University Hockey08:58 Overseas Adventures: The Transition to Professional Hockey12:01 The Mental Game: Introduction to Mental Coaching15:03 Deciding to Pivot: Transitioning from Player to Coach17:50 Financial Hurdles: Starting a New Business21:04 Understanding Mental Coaching23:50 Long-Term Vision and Balancing Life27:02 Evolving Financial Awareness29:51 Final Thoughts and Recommendations