What does it take to stay three moves ahead when the world is watching? In the state-of-the-art setting of Branksome Hall’s Athletics and Wellness Centre, Grace sits down with NHL Hall of Famer—and Branksome parent—Eric Lindros. While known for his physical dominance on the ice, Eric speaks to the value of the "soft skills" that are often the hardest to master: handling public criticism, navigating failure and leading a franchise as the youngest captain in Flyers history.

In this episode, Eric shares candid reflections on:

• The Car Ride Home:  His parents’ role in shaping his journey—from the extra hours on the backyard ice rink to the coaching and conversations in the car after the game, and why keeping it fun is the ultimate fuel for high performance.
• Multi-Sport Mindsets: Why being the best player on a team isn't always the best way to learn, and how playing sports you aren’t good can help to build a winning mindset. 
• The Identity Shift: Navigating life after the game and his transition from the "Big E" to a champion for systemic change through concussion awareness and Rowan’s Law.
• Advice for the Next Generation: A compelling message to students and parents on balancing high-performance dreams with academics, and the importance of being honest about injury.

Whether you're a student-athlete, a parent or a leader, this is a masterclass in playing smart, building mental toughness and leading with purpose.

Listeners can follow along on Instagram at @principalEDpod for behind-the-scenes updates and exclusive content. The PrincipalED podcast is available for streaming on Apple and Spotify, where the official podcast music playlist is also available.

Branksome Hall’s YouTube channel features a full video version of this discussion, which can be viewed here.