Episodes

  • 8 Financial Areas Every Hockey Family Needs to Focus On
    Dec 23 2025

    In this episode of the Financial Pod Play, Brett Cranson discusses the eight key financial areas that every hockey family needs to master to stay financially strong. He emphasizes the importance of smart financial planning, managing cash flow, saving on taxes, and risk management. Brett provides practical advice and strategies for hockey families to build wealth, reduce stress, and take control of their financial future.


    Takeaways


    • Smart financial planning is essential for hockey families.
    • Create a financial system to manage team fees and travel expenses.
    • Automate savings by opening separate accounts for expenses and goals.
    • Track cash flow for 60 days to identify spending leaks.
    • Plan taxes proactively to maximize deductions and savings.
    • Risk management protects income and assets from unforeseen events.
    • Build an emergency fund covering three to six months of expenses.
    • Review insurance coverage regularly for life, disability, and critical illness.
    • Use RRSP and TSA as tax tools, not just savings tools.
    • Download the Financial Playbook for Hockey Families for detailed guidance.


    Thank you for joining us on this episode of The Financial Power Play. I'm excited to continue bringing you stories, insights, and strategies to help you build a financial future as strong as your passion for hockey. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it with your hockey crew, and leave a review.Looking to build your own financial playbook? ⁠Book your consultation here⁠. Or visit⁠ UptownWealthManagement.com ⁠Connect with Brett:⁠LinkedIn⁠: / brettcranson ⁠Facebook⁠: / uptownwealthmanagement ⁠Instagram⁠: / buildingwealthwithbrett ⁠TikTok⁠: / buildingwealthwithbrett Until next time, stay focused, stay flexible, and keep playing your game!

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    9 mins
  • Mental Performance and Financial Strategies for Hockey Excellence with Shannon Vit
    Dec 9 2025

    In this episode of the Financial Power Play podcast, host Brett Cranson from Uptown Wealth Management interviews Shannon Vit, a mental performance coach for hockey players and a dedicated hockey mom. Shannon shares her journey from social work to coaching, emphasizing the importance of mental resilience in sports. She discusses common challenges faced by hockey players, from maintaining composure to building confidence, and offers strategies to overcome these hurdles. Shannon also explores the unique pressures faced by professional athletes and the importance of planning for life after sports. The episode delves into the role of parents in supporting young athletes and offers practical advice for managing the financial and emotional investments in hockey. Shannon concludes by discussing her book, 'The Mental Edge: Developing the Mindset of a Hockey Champion,' and her goals for expanding her coaching services.00:00 Introduction to Financial Power Play00:25 Meet Shannon Vit: Performance Coach and Hockey Mom00:56 Shannon's Journey into Mental Performance Coaching03:24 Common Challenges Faced by Hockey Players06:15 Working with Pro and Minor Hockey Players14:13 Advice for Hockey Parents20:54 Shannon's Personal Experience as a Goalie Mom25:11 Future Goals and Projects27:47 Quick Tips and Final ThoughtsThank you for joining us on this episode of The Financial Power Play. I'm excited to continue bringing you stories, insights, and strategies to help you build a financial future as strong as your passion for hockey. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it with your hockey crew, and leave a review.Looking to build your own financial playbook? ⁠Book your consultation here⁠. Or visit⁠ UptownWealthManagement.com ⁠Connect with Brett:⁠LinkedIn⁠: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brettcranson/⁠Facebook⁠: https://www.facebook.com/uptownwealthmanagement⁠Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/buildingwealthwithbrett/⁠TikTok⁠: https://www.tiktok.com/@buildingwealthwithbrettUntil next time, stay focused, stay flexible, and keep playing your game!

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    31 mins
  • Navigating NCAA Hockey Recruitment with Sean Hogan from College Hockey Inc.
    Nov 11 2025

    In this episode of the Financial Power Play, host Brett Cranson from Uptown Wealth Management is joined by Sean Hogan, the Executive Director of College Hockey Inc. They discuss the landscape of NCAA hockey recruitment, the role and mission of College Hockey Inc., and Sean's own journey in hockey. The conversation covers changes in NCAA eligibility rules, the impact of minor professional experiences, growth strategies for college hockey, and practical advice for families and players aspiring to play at the collegiate level. Financial implications, including scholarships and the potential financial opportunities through NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness), are also highlighted.


    00:00 Introduction to Financial Power Play

    00:25 Guest Introduction: Sean Hogan from College Hockey Inc.

    00:54 Sean Hogan's Hockey Journey

    03:15 Coaching Career and Breakthroughs

    08:07 Role and Mission of College Hockey Inc.

    11:32 NCAA Recruitment and Eligibility Changes

    18:30 NCAA Hockey Commitments: Age and Decisions

    19:23 The Future of Division III Hockey

    21:45 Scouting and Recruiting in Division III

    23:27 Long-Term Goals of College Hockey Inc.

    25:05 Understanding College Hockey Scholarships

    32:15 Financial Advice for Hockey Families

    33:41 Rapid-Fire Questions and Fun Insights

    34:33 Conclusion and Contact Information


    If you' d like to get in touch with Sean, or College Hocey Inc., visit collegehockeyinc.com

    Thank you for joining us on this episode of The Financial Power Play. I'm excited to continue bringing you stories, insights, and strategies to help you build a financial future as strong as your passion for hockey.

    If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it with your hockey crew, and leave a review.

    Looking to build your own financial playbook? ⁠Book your consultation at UptownWealthManagement.com

    ⁠Connect with Brett:⁠LinkedIn⁠: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brettcranson/⁠Facebook⁠: https://www.facebook.com/uptownwealthmanagement⁠Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/buildingwealthwithbrett/⁠TikTok⁠: https://www.tiktok.com/@buildingwealthwithbrett


    Until next time, stay focused, stay flexible, and keep playing your game!



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    36 mins
  • The Importance of Critical Illness and Disability Insurance
    Oct 28 2025

    In this episode of The Financial Power Play, Brett Cranson from Uptown Wealth Management discusses the crucial yet often overlooked topic of critical illness and disability insurance for hockey families and professionals. Brett explains the importance of these insurance types as protective measures, akin to a strong defense in hockey, to safeguard against unexpected health issues that can impact financial stability. He addresses common questions, provides case studies, and offers practical advice on what to look for in policies, stressing that proper coverage helps maintain the family's lifestyle and financial health when facing serious illness or injury.


    00:00 Introduction to Financial Power Play

    00:30 The Importance of Critical Illness and Disability Insurance

    01:37 Common Questions and Misconceptions

    03:51 Understanding Disability Insurance

    05:47 Critical Illness Insurance Explained

    07:11 Combining Insurance Policies for Maximum Protection

    07:34 Practical Steps to Get Started

    09:35 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


    Thank you for joining us on this episode of The Financial Power Play. I'm excited to continue bringing you stories, insights, and strategies to help you build a financial future as strong as your passion for hockey. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it with your hockey crew, and leave a review.

    Looking to build your own financial playbook? ⁠Visit⁠ UptownWealthManagement.com ⁠Connect with Brett:⁠LinkedIn⁠: / brettcranson ⁠Facebook⁠: / uptownwealthmanagement ⁠Instagram⁠: / buildingwealthwithbrett ⁠TikTok⁠: / buildingwealthwithbrett Until next time, stay focused, stay flexible, and keep playing your game!

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    11 mins
  • From Goalie to Grad School: Life After Hockey with Rachel McQuigge
    Oct 14 2025

    In this episode of The Financial Power Play, Brett Cranson of Uptown Wealth Management interviews Rachel McQuigge, an ex-professional hockey player who is now transitioning to law school. Rachel shares her journey from falling in love with hockey to earning a D1 scholarship at Princeton, and discusses the recruiting process, her challenges in both professional hockey and academia, and the financial implications of pursuing athletic and academic goals concurrently. Rachel offers insights into balancing sports with academics, the importance of financial planning, and her experiences adjusting to life beyond professional sports. The episode provides valuable advice for young athletes and their families facing similar paths.


    00:00 Introduction to The Financial Power Play

    00:22 Meet Rachel: From Hockey to Law School

    00:45 Rachel's Hockey Journey: From Public Skating to Princeton

    01:44 Navigating NCAA Recruitment and College Life

    10:43 Transitioning to Professional Hockey

    13:24 From Professional Hockey to Law School

    17:00 Financial Challenges and Family Support

    21:03 Personal Financial Tips and Future Plans

    29:16 Conclusion and Final Advice


    Thank you for joining us on this episode of The Financial Power Play. I'm excited to continue bringing you stories, insights, and strategies to help you build a financial future as strong as your passion for hockey. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it with your hockey crew, and leave a review.Looking to build your own financial playbook? ⁠Book your consultation here⁠. Or visit⁠ UptownWealthManagement.com ⁠Connect with Brett:⁠LinkedIn⁠: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brettcranson/⁠Facebook⁠: https://www.facebook.com/uptownwealthmanagement⁠Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/buildingwealthwithbrett/⁠TikTok⁠: https://www.tiktok.com/@buildingwealthwithbrettUntil next time, stay focused, stay flexible, and keep playing your game!

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    33 mins
  • 7 Hidden Challenges of Retirement for the Hockey Community
    Sep 23 2025

    In this episode of the Financial Power Play, we look into the often unspoken challenges of retirement that go beyond financial planning alone.


    I’ll highlights seven major issues such as health decline, medical bureaucracy, loss of strength, social disconnection, identity loss, financial surprises, and caregiving responsibilities.


    Also we’ll shares real-life stories and actionable steps to help retirees navigate these challenges successfully. Whether you're a hockey family, a business owner, or a former athlete, this episode provides valuable insights and strategies for a balanced and fulfilling retirement.


    Tune in for a wake-up call that goes beyond the usual spreadsheet stuff.


    00:00 Introduction to Financial Power Play

    00:23 The Reality of Retirement Planning

    01:06 Seven Major Challenges in Retirement

    02:26 Health Challenges in Retirement

    04:35 Emotional and Social Aspects of Retirement

    06:32 Financial Surprises in Retirement

    07:20 Caring for Others in Retirement

    08:22 Final Tips and Reflections

    09:22 Conclusion and Next Steps



    Thank you for joining us on this episode of The Financial Power Play. I'm excited to continue bringing you stories, insights, and strategies to help you build a financial future as strong as your passion for hockey.

    If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it with your hockey crew, and leave a review.

    Looking to build your own financial playbook? ⁠Book your consultation here. Or visit⁠ UptownWealthManagement.com ⁠


    Connect with Brett:⁠

    LinkedIn⁠: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brettcranson/⁠

    Facebook⁠: https://www.facebook.com/uptownwealthmanagement ⁠

    Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/buildingwealthwithbrett/⁠

    TikTok⁠: https://www.tiktok.com/@buildingwealthwithbrett


    Until next time, stay focused, stay flexible, and keep playing your game!

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    10 mins
  • From the Rink to Real Estate: Kaity Howarth's Journey
    Sep 9 2025

    In this episode of 'Financial Power Play,' host Brett Cranson from Uptown Wealth Management chats with former professional hockey player Kaity Howarth.

    Katie shares her journey from growing up in a hockey-loving family in Thunder Bay to playing professional hockey in the PHF. She discusses the challenges she faced, including financial obstacles and dealing with pressure.

    Katie also talks about her transition into real estate and her summer program, For the Girls, which aims to support young female athletes. The episode offers valuable insights into balancing life, sports, and financial planning.

    00:00 Introduction to Financial Power Play

    00:26 Meet Katie Howorth: From Pro Hockey to Real Estate

    00:57 Katie's Hockey Journey: From Thunder Bay to St. Mary's

    05:45 Transition to Professional Hockey

    09:56 Starting For the Girls: Empowering Young Female Athletes

    14:18 Balancing Real Estate and Summer Programs

    17:51 Financial Challenges and Strategies

    24:28 Future Goals and Advice for Young Athletes

    27:55 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Remarks


    Connect with Kaity:

    https://www.instagram.com/kaityhowarth/https://www.forthegirlshockey.ca



    Thank you for joining us on this episode of The Financial Power Play. I'm excited to continue bringing you stories, insights, and strategies to help you build a financial future as strong as your passion for hockey. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it with your hockey crew, and leave a review.Looking to build your own financial playbook? ⁠Book your consultation here⁠. Or visit⁠ UptownWealthManagement.com ⁠Connect with Brett:⁠LinkedIn⁠: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brettcranson/⁠Facebook⁠: https://www.facebook.com/uptownwealthmanagement⁠Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/buildingwealthwithbrett/⁠TikTok⁠: https://www.tiktok.com/@buildingwealthwithbrettUntil next time, stay focused, stay flexible, and keep playing your game!

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    34 mins
  • Playing the Full 60: Building a Financial Game Plan That Lasts Beyond the Season
    Aug 26 2025

    In this episode of Financial Powerplay, Brett Cranson discusses the importance of having a comprehensive financial game plan that lasts beyond immediate successes. He draws parallels between hockey and financial management, emphasizing the need to play the full 60 minutes of a financial season. The episode is structured around different career stages, offering strategies for rookies, mid-career professionals, and those nearing retirement. Key themes include building a strong financial foundation, balancing growth with protection, making the most of extra income, and planning for life after a career in sports.


    Takeaways


    You can win the first period and still lose the game.

    It's not about the opening face-off; it's about how you play the full 60.

    The rookie years are all about building your foundation, not chasing the scoreboard.

    Get serious about retirement because it's closer than you think.

    In your mid-career, you got to play smart because you're not defending and attacking at the same time.

    You can't take huge risks, but you can't lose either.

    When your defense is strong, you can go on offense with confidence.

    PowerPlays change games. Extra income changes your finances.

    Use your power plays to control the game, not just enjoy a quick rush.

    Always plan for overtime.


    Chapters

    00:00 Playing the Full 60: Financial Game Plan Overview

    03:28 Rookie Years: Building a Strong Financial Foundation

    06:26 Mid-Career: Balancing Growth and Protection

    09:20 Third Period: Making Power Plays Count

    10:29 Overtime: Planning for Life After the Game

    12:14 Introduction to Financial Power Play






    financial planning, hockey, budgeting, investment strategies, career stages, financial security, savings, retirement planning, income management, financial defense

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    13 mins