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
  • 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
  • Navigating the Hockey Industry: Insights from Max Solomons
    Aug 12 2025

    Summary:


    In this episode of Financial Power Play, host Brett Cranston interviews Max Solomons, a former hockey industry professional turned lawyer specializing in blockchain and digital assets. Max shares his journey from being a passionate hockey fan and aspiring agent to navigating the complexities of the legal world. He discusses the importance of understanding the behind-the-scenes work in hockey, the transition to law, and the financial realities of both industries. Max emphasizes the significance of persistence, service standards, and long-term planning in achieving success, whether in sports or law.



    Takeaways:


    Max started his career in the hockey world as a radio host.

    He learned the importance of understanding the game from a scouting perspective.

    Working with the London Knights was a game-changing experience for him.

    The role of an agent is to support players in various facets of their lives.

    Max transitioned to law to gain skills in corporate and commercial transactions.

    He found a niche in blockchain and digital assets within his legal practice.

    Service standards learned in hockey apply to his legal career.

    Financial advice in sports emphasizes understanding clients' disposable cash situations.

    Persistence is key in both the hockey and legal industries.

    Max remains open to returning to the hockey world in the future.



    Chapters:


    00:00 From Hockey Dreams to Legal Realities

    05:50 Understanding the Hockey Industry

    12:29 Transitioning to Law and Financial Insights

    21:44 Future Aspirations and Long-Term Goals

    25:01 Rapid Fire Insights and Reflections

    30:07 Introduction to Financial Power Play



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



    hockey, law, agency, blockchain, digital assets, financial advice, career transition, sports industry, player management, legal profession

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    30 mins
  • Ryan Hand On Balancing Hockey, Coaching, and Finances
    Jul 8 2025

    In this episode of Financial Power Play, host Brett Cranson speaks with former professional hockey player and current coach, and hockey dad, Ryan Hand.


    They discuss Ryan's journey through the hockey world, from starting at a young age in Canada to playing professionally for over a decade, and eventually transitioning into coaching and running the Hand Made Skills Development Program.


    Ryan shares insights on managing the costs of hockey, both as a player and a parent, and offers advice for finding the right skill sessions for young athletes. He also talks about the challenges and rewards of running a hockey development business and emphasizes the importance of balancing training with fun and rest. The episode wraps up with Ryan's long-term goals and his tips for young coaches, players, and parents in the hockey world.


    00:00 Introduction to Financial Power Play

    00:22 Meet Ryan Hen: Hockey Pro to Coach

    00:48 Ryan's Hockey Journey and Early Memories

    02:13 Transition from Player to Coach and Business Owner

    02:41 Financial Challenges in Hockey

    03:55 Starting and Running a Hockey Development Business

    05:28 Advice for Hockey Parents and Players

    08:33 Balancing Family, Coaching, and Business

    12:10 Rapid Fire Questions and Final Advice

    14:08 Conclusion and Next Steps


    Connect with Ryan Hand and learn more about Hand Made Hockey:

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

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

    Website: https://www.handmadehockey.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

    ⁠Facebook⁠

    ⁠Instagram⁠

    ⁠TikTok⁠


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


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    14 mins
  • Kickoff Episode - Smart Financial Strategies for Hockey Families
    Jun 10 2025

    Financial Power Play: Kickoff Episode - Smart Financial Strategies for Hockey Families

    Welcome to the first episode of the Financial Power Play podcast, where Brett from Uptown Wealth Management introduces a show dedicated to helping hockey families and professionals craft smart financial plans.

    Brett combines his passion for hockey and finance to offer insights and advice tailored to the unique financial challenges in the hockey world.

    The episode covers Brett's personal hockey background, the financial demands of the sport, and his vision for providing financial guidance specific to the hockey community. Brett also shares rapid-fire personal insights to wrap up the inaugural episode.


    00:00 Welcome to the Financial Power Play

    00:23 Introduction to the Podcast

    01:01 Brett's Hockey Backstory

    01:46 Financial Challenges in the Hockey World

    02:36 Vision for the Future

    03:27 Overtime Rapid Fire Wrap Up

    04:09 Closing Remarks and Next Steps



    Brett is founder of Uptown Wealth Management, a financial advisor and coach for hockey families and the professional hockey community who want a game plan for their finances - one that works both today and in the long run.

    With over two decades in financial services and a lifelong passion for hockey, Brett knows firsthand the unique financial challenges that come with life at the rink.

    "Hockey isn’t just a sport - it’s a commitment, a lifestyle, and a community."



    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

    ⁠Facebook⁠

    ⁠Instagram⁠

    ⁠TikTok⁠


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





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    5 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
  • 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