Brady Leavold
Brady Leavold
#26 Hockey 2 Hell And Back Ft. Kurtis Gabriel
#26 Hockey 2 Hell And Back Ft. Kurtis Gabriel
#26 Hockey 2 Hell And Back Ft. Kurtis Gabriel
Sunday 14th February 2021
Listen to Kurtis Gabriel discuss his journey from addiction to advocacy, mental health challenges, and supporting the LGBTQ community on 'Hockey 2 Hell and Back'.
Explicit
116 minutes
Inspiring
Empowering
Informative
Hopeful
Compassionate
About this podcast
Author:
Brady Leavold
Overview:
Categories:
Sobriety Toolkit
Body & Mind
Financial Health in Recovery
Family Recovery from Addiction
Creative Recovery Journeys
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Episodes:
193 (View all)
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Get the buttons here!Kurtis Gabriel: Breaking Barriers in Hockey and Mental Health
I truly believe that I was never really supposed to be a professional hockey player, that I only made it just far enough to carry me to the story that I have now, because, let's be honest.
Picture this: a professional hockey player who not only battles it out on the ice but also fights for equality and mental health. In this episode of 'Hockey 2 Hell and Back', host Brady Leavold chats with Kurtis Gabriel, a forward for the San Jose Sharks known for his advocacy within the hockey community. Gabriel’s journey is anything but ordinary.
Passed over in the NHL draft twice before finally being picked by the Minnesota Wild, he has faced numerous challenges, both on and off the ice. Gabriel opens up about his personal struggles with addiction and mental health, shedding light on the darker side of professional sports. But it's not just his story of overcoming adversity that stands out; it's his commitment to making a difference.
Gabriel proudly uses pride tape on his stick and skates, a bold statement in a sport that often shies away from such open displays of support for the LGBTQ community. His actions challenge toxic masculinity and homophobia, paving the way for a more inclusive environment in hockey. Leavold and Gabriel dive deep into the impact of mental health issues within the sport, discussing how players can find purpose beyond their athletic careers.
Gabriel's belief that his true calling lies in advocacy rather than just playing hockey is both inspiring and thought-provoking. The episode doesn’t just stop at sharing stories; it encourages listeners to take action. Gabriel’s involvement with Puck Support, an organization founded by Leavold to aid those in the hockey community struggling with mental health and addiction, is a testament to his dedication to creating positive change.
If you're looking for a podcast that goes beyond the usual sports talk, this episode is a must-listen. It's a powerful reminder that even in the toughest arenas, there are voices fighting for change and support.