Puck Academy
Jason Jacobs
Puck Academy is a show and newsletter exploring how hockey players grow — on and off the ice. Each week, we share conversations with coaches, players, and experts about the habits, mindset, and development process that lead to peak performance. Our mission is to help players and families make sense of the journey — what matters, what doesn’t, and how to navigate it all with purpose.
How It Works
🎙 The Podcast — Smart, practical conversations with the people shaping player development.
✉️ The Newsletter — Weekly highlights and reflections to help players and parents learn together.
Together, they form a growing library of ideas and stories for anyone serious about getting better — and helping others do the same.
Hosted by Jason Jacobs
Jason Jacobs is a lifelong builder, parent, and student of development — exploring how people and systems improve over time. Through Puck Academy, he’s combining a love of hockey with a passion for learning, growth, and making sense of how players reach their fullest form.
How It Works
🎙 The Podcast — Smart, practical conversations with the people shaping player development.
✉️ The Newsletter — Weekly highlights and reflections to help players and parents learn together.
Together, they form a growing library of ideas and stories for anyone serious about getting better — and helping others do the same.
Hosted by Jason Jacobs
Jason Jacobs is a lifelong builder, parent, and student of development — exploring how people and systems improve over time. Through Puck Academy, he’s combining a love of hockey with a passion for learning, growth, and making sense of how players reach their fullest form.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Feb 3, 2025 • 56min
Navigating Transitions with Steve Schlafman
Navigating Transitions with Steve SchlafmanHosted by Jason Jacobs, this episode of The Next Next features Steve Schlafman, founder of Downshift, a professional transition coach. The discussion delves into Steve's shift from venture capital to coaching, the philosophy behind Downshift which aids executives and founders transitioning out of demanding careers, and recovering from burnout. Steve discusses the common struggles of highly ambitious professionals, the process of reconnecting with personal values, and the importance of intentional transitions. The conversation also covers the evolving nature of work, the potential of AI, and achieving a balanced life while maintaining professional excellence. 00:00 Introduction to Steve Schlafman 00:26 Steve's Journey from VC to Coach 00:43 The Concept of Downshift 01:15 Discussion on Life Transitions 01:46 Jason's Introduction and Show Purpose 03:43 Steve's Work and Personal Evolution 05:03 The Birth of Downshift 07:13 Navigating Transitions and Coaching 14:27 The Importance of Slowing Down 15:00 Client Experiences and Success Stories 18:17 Changing Work Dynamics and AI 27:46 Balancing Ambition and Happiness 31:21 Balancing Ambition and Family Life 33:20 Navigating Resentment and Creative Juices 34:25 Exploring Ambition in Personal and Professional Life 36:48 Advice for Those in Transition 40:33 Downshift Program Overview 45:36 Future Plans and Personal Values 48:49 Innovative Ideas and Closing Thoughts
Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).
Jan 27, 2025 • 46min
Rob May, 4x founder with over 100 AI investments
AI Frontiers: Leveraging Technology for Founders with Rob May In the inaugural episode of The Next Next, host Jason Jacobs speaks with Rob May, a seasoned entrepreneur and AI investor with four startups and over a hundred AI investments. The discussion covers Rob's journey into AI, the evolution of AI, the implications of AI on various industries, and the challenges and opportunities it presents for startups. Rob also shares his insights on the future of expertise, the changing landscape of business funding, and the shifting paradigms in technology development. Jason grapples with how these advancements might impact his journey as a founder aiming for ambitious goals while maintaining personal and family balance. 00:00 Introduction to Rob May and the Episode 01:01 Jason Jacobs' New Show and Its Purpose 01:46 Rob May's Background and Career Journey 04:38 Rob's AI Journey and Early Ventures 07:44 Challenges and Insights in AI Development 10:52 The Future of AI and Human Expertise 12:10 Navigating the Rapidly Evolving AI Landscape 22:36 The Role of AI in Creative Fields 23:34 The Future of Creativity in the Age of AI 23:57 The Rise of Virtual Influencers 24:21 Branding in the AI Era 25:02 The Impact of AI on Media and Culture 26:16 Automation and Intimacy in Social Media 29:34 The Evolution of Talent and Earnings 31:12 Challenges for Investors in the AI Landscape 31:48 The Future of Business Moats and Defensibility 37:30 Starting Companies in the AI Age 41:21 The Role of Judgment and Experience in an AI-Driven World 44:52 Closing Thoughts and Future Outlook
Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).
Jan 26, 2025 • 2min
Introducing The Next Next
An overview of why I started this crazy new journey, what I am hoping to achieve, the role that this show plays, and what to expect from it each week. LFG! Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by
The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).
