Hey Bapletes, Keith here.
Today, I had the pleasure of chatting with Chris Dingman, a two-time Stanley Cup champion. His journey from the ice rinks of the NHL to the boardrooms of business provides a rich narrative of resilience, reinvention, and the challenges and triumphs of transitioning from one phase of life to another.
Chris shares his experience of navigating life after professional sports. As his narrative unfolds, the importance of adaptability, humility, and persistence becomes clear. Whatever happens in life, we owe it to ourselves to push forward and reinvent ourselves, no matter what.
Today’s conversation offers invaluable insights for anyone facing major life transitions.
Why Watch This Interview?
Curious about the life of a pro athlete after the final whistle?
Chris Dingman’s story is a masterclass in adapting to life’s curveballs.
He delves into the challenges he faced transitioning from a celebrated NHL career to various roles in pursuit of his Next, including broadcasting, business development, and even landscaping.
Chris’s reflections offer a rare glimpse into the reality of life after professional sports, which underscores the need for continuous personal growth and adaptability.
To all the transitioning athletes reading this, know that you’re not alone.
Key Talking Points
Life After the Limelight
From Hockey to Business: Chris discusses the stark contrast between playing in the NHL and stepping into the world of business. His experiences underscore the importance of resilience in the journey of reinventing yourself.
Adaptability and Persistence: One of the key themes of our conversation was Chris’s ability to adapt to new challenges. Whether it’s dealing with the unpredictability of sales or learning new skills, his story is a testament to the power of persistence.
Embracing New Identities
Beyond Hockey: Chris’s journey illustrates the significance of building a life and identity beyond professional sports. He shares how he navigated the emotional and psychological aspects of this transition.
Finding Fulfilment in New Roles: Chris emphasizes the joy and satisfaction he found in various roles post-retirement, highlighting the multifaceted nature of identity and success.
Key Takeaways
No matter what you’re going through, resilience is key: Chris’s journey teaches us the importance of resilience in the face of change. His ability to bounce back and thrive in different fields is truly inspiring.
The power of adaptability: Embracing change showing a willingness to learn new skills can lead to unexpected yet fulfilling paths in life.
Life beyond professional sports: Chris’s story is a powerful reminder that there is life and fulfilment beyond the pinnacle of professional sports. It’s difficult to build that new life, but it’s possible with the right mindset and support.
Tune in and learn from a true champion who mastered the art of reinvention.
Until next time, channel your inner champion and push toward your Next with resilience and adaptability.
I’m Keith Bilous, and I’m your Chief Baplete here in the Business Athlete Performance Lab.
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Live in the Lab #47 | Chris Dingman