In this episode, Adam Larson welcomes Hunter Bemies, founder of Southern Puck, a brand championing the growth of hockey in the South. Hunter shares his inspiring journey from quitting hockey as a child to walking on to OSU’s ACHA team at age 20, and eventually launching a brand that connects and supports southern players. The conversation touches on the pride of representing non-traditional hockey markets, Southern Puck's athlete program and showcase game, and the success of their YouTube series “Day in the Life.” The episode ends with heartfelt shout-outs and a meaningful reflection on mental health.

00:00:00 – Introduction and Sponsor Shout-Out Adam Larson opens the episode after a 1.5-month break and introduces the show's sponsor, Play It Again Sports in Mansfield (which he owns). He emphasizes their focus on various sports except snow sports.

00:02:00 – Guest Introduction: Hunter Bemies Adam introduces Hunter Bemies, founder of Southern Puck, a brand promoting southern hockey. They note his Tulsa roots and connection to the southern hockey community.

00:02:45 – Hunter’s Introduction to Hockey Hunter shares how hockey was a family activity growing up in Tulsa, but he had to stop playing around age 7–8 due to family reasons.

00:03:50 – Reentering the Sport at Age 20 Hunter recounts how he reentered hockey via men’s league, then unexpectedly made the ACHA roster for Oklahoma State University at 20 after a dare from a friend.

00:05:24 – OSU Hockey Club Growth Adam and Hunter discuss the revival of the OSU club team and shout out Jacob Thompson and others for their work in growing the program.

00:07:53 – Adjusting to Competitive Play Again Hunter credits College Cable and Ian Cheserek in Tulsa for helping him through their School of Hockey program, helping him not just keep up but contribute.

00:10:20 – Founding Southern Puck Hunter explains how his love of creativity, apparel, and hockey led him to found Southern Puck in summer 2024. His wife, Emma, has been a huge support in launching the brand.

00:14:11 – Southern Hockey Pride and Representation Adam reflects on how southern players are now proud to represent their roots, and Hunter explains the Southern Puck athlete program — a network of players who proudly rep southern hockey.

00:15:51 – Summer Showdown Showcase Game Hunter discusses organizing a summer game bringing top southern players together in Tulsa. The game featured competitive, fun hockey and intermission interviews, building camaraderie and community.

00:20:59 – Role of the WeStreet Ice Center They praise the new Tulsa facility, WeStreet Ice Center, as a model for future rinks and a key to southern hockey’s growth.

00:23:33 – YouTube Video Series: Day in the Life Hunter shares insights into his “Day in the Life” series on Southern Puck’s YouTube, highlighting junior and youth players. The series provides exposure and insight into hockey journeys.

00:26:12 – Community Buy-In and Growth Hunter reflects on how players now approach them to be featured. Adam discusses how podcasting has helped him form new connections and conversations.

00:29:12 – Future of Southern Puck Hunter talks about long-term goals: expanding their apparel, supporting teams, becoming a household name in southern hockey, and possibly doing school visits to grow interest in hockey.

00:31:44 – Praise from College Cable Adam reads a message from College Cable, praising Hunter’s passion, his and his wife’s character, and the impact Southern Puck is having on the southern hockey community.

00:34:57 – Shout-Out Segment Hunter shouts out his wife, Emma, for her unwavering support. Adam shares a vulnerable message about mental health, emphasizing the importance of recognizing burnout and taking care of oneself.

00:41:14 – Closing Remarks Adam wraps up the episode with appreciation for Hunter and mentions a potential future episode with Cade Walker. He signs off with podcast details and where to listen.