#54 - Karl Stewart | Undrafted to NHL Scout: Finding Your Identity in Hockey

In this episode of The Hockey Lab Podcast, Coach A and Coach Gards sit down with Karl Stewart — former NHL player and current NHL scout — to talk about what it really takes to make it in hockey.

From the disappointment of going undrafted to carving out a career through grit, adaptability, and identity, Karl shares stories from his time in the OHL, the NHL, and overseas — and the lessons that shaped his approach to scouting and player development today.

💬 Topics include:

• The long car ride home after going undrafted

• How finding an identity became his biggest advantage

• What separates players who last from those who fade

• Why "super teams" and early hype don't guarantee success

• The role of heart, culture, and leadership in long-term growth

• Lessons learned transitioning from player to NHL scout

Whether you're a young player, parent, or coach, this episode breaks down what real development looks like — on and off the ice.

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