In this episode of The Faceoff Spot, host Adam Larson talks with hockey content creator Robert “Babs” Babiak about navigating the world of content creation, coaching in the Federal Prospects Hockey League, and embracing the idea of “failing forward.” They reflect on how the COVID-19 pandemic spurred their creative paths, the balance between passion and pressure, and offer insights for aspiring players and creators. The conversation wraps with a mutual shoutout to those chasing dreams in unconventional ways and the importance of patience and authenticity in media and hockey alike.

00:00 – 01:54 | Intro & Sponsor Shoutout

Host Adam Larson welcomes listeners and gives a shoutout to his sponsor, his own store “Play It Again Sports” in Mansfield, TX.

Introduces the guest, content creator Robert Babiak (aka Babs), who is known for his engaging and passionate hockey content.

01:55 – 03:36 | The Creative Process & Content Inspiration

Adam praises Babs' creativity and confesses to borrowing ideas.

Babs discusses the challenges of high-volume content creation and how inspiration often comes from others in the industry.

03:37 – 05:24 | Starting Out in Media & Building a Brand

Babs recounts how the pandemic shifted him from hockey to media, beginning with gaming content.

Describes the push to start a hockey page after being told he didn’t have a hockey following—driven partly by defiance.

05:25 – 07:11 | Pandemic Origins & Personal Motivation

Adam and Babs share how COVID motivated them to start podcasting and content creation respectively.

They touch on isolation, personal growth, and how circumstances pushed them into their current paths.

07:12 – 09:10 | Failing Forward & Unexpected Opportunities

Babs explains the concept of “failing forward”—embracing imperfect beginnings and being persistent.

Talks about unexpected success, like interviewing UFC champions, and learning on the job.

09:11 – 11:51 | Balancing Authenticity & Popularity

Discussion about avoiding burnout and staying true to your creative vision.

Babs explains why he avoids certain trending or controversial topics, preferring a respectful, authentic tone.

11:52 – 13:21 | Audience Expectations vs. Creator Intent

Adam notes that sometimes the audience is more serious or invested in the content than the creator.

Reflects on the unintended weight of casual comments or loosely formed thoughts.

13:22 – 15:17 | The Fed Experience: Getting Started in Hockey

Babs breaks down what “the Fed” is (Federal Prospects Hockey League, 5th tier pro hockey).

Talks about getting into coaching through persistence and networking, despite initial rejections.

15:18 – 21:21 | Coaching in the Fed: Stories & Strategies

Babs describes the unique experience of coaching new pro players in a gritty, low-budget league.

Emphasizes humility, accountability, and mutual respect between coach and players.

21:22 – 25:00 | Advice for Aspiring Fed Players

Babs offers practical tips for players wanting to break into the Fed: be realistic, work hard, and do your research.

Warns about unstable teams and emphasizes the importance of fit and professionalism.

25:01 – 27:28 | Shoutouts & Final Words

Babs gives a positive shoutout to players breaking barriers in Junior B hockey and the evolving scouting landscape.

Adam emphasizes patience for new creators and the importance of supporting grassroots efforts in hockey.