Predators Official Podcast
233 episodes - English - Latest episode: 2 days ago - ★★★★★ - 266 ratingsThe Predators Official Podcast is hosted by Max Herz and Kara Hammer. The 45-minute long program offers inside access to the team, the best interviews with players and analysts, plus the Preds hockey talk you crave.
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Episodes
2020-21 Regular Season Concludes
May 06, 2021 23:36 - 56 minutes - 51.5 MBThe Predators are on the cusp of clinching their seventh consecutive postseason berth, after one of the most dramatic, in-season comebacks in franchise history. NHL insider Pierre LeBrun joins the show (21:10) to touch on how goaltender Juuse Saros saved Nashville's season (26:51) and predict what the club's roster will look like going forward (25:35). Plus, Thomas Willis and Brooks Bratten look at the final days of the regular season (3:30) and explain how the Preds can clinch a playoff ber...
Brekky with Ekky
April 29, 2021 20:28 - 55 minutes - 50.9 MBPredators defenseman Mattias Ekholm joins the podcast to share his perspective on Nashville's turnaround this season and what lies before them with five games to go (17:15). Plus, he outlines the emotional struggles of being included in trade rumors (22:48), discusses raising two children (26:18) and reveals why his name both is and isn't Hans (33:50). Brooks Bratten and Thomas Willis recap the two games between the Preds and the Panthers (3:00) and preview a pivotal contest between Nashvill...
The Playoff Push
April 23, 2021 14:46 - 53 minutes - 49.4 MBEight games to go. The Predators fight the Blackhawks and the Stars for the final playoff spot in the Central Division. Preds defenseman Erik Gudbranson joins the show to describe his journey to the team after being acquired from Ottawa (18:15). He also tells the inspiring story of his brother's battle with pediatric cancer (28:45). Plus, Thomas Willis and Brooks Bratten share NHL, Winter Olympic and COVID protocol news (38:55). They also answer fan questions (46:40) and look at the stretch ...
Preds are Vibin' Jeannot?
April 16, 2021 18:43 - 55 minutes - 50.6 MBThe NHL Trade Deadline passes, and the Predators and GM David Poile decide to keep the team together and add defenseman Erik Gudbranson (3:25). Winners of 13 of their last 17 games, Nashville is in a playoff spot and vibin' (8:15). Predators rookie forward Tanner Jeannot, a fan favorite already, joins the podcast (19:01). Plus, Brooks Bratten and Thomas Willis debate what the Predators' ideal lineup could look like (46:48).
2020-21 NHL Trade Deadline
April 09, 2021 23:31 - 57 minutes - 53 MBThe NHL Trade Deadline nears. Will the Predators buy, sell or keep their same roster (38:30)? Sportsnet's David Amber joins the podcast to help lends his expertise to answer the looming questions (20:38). Plus, the Predators have won 11 of 13 games and look like a playoff team despite their many injuries. Thomas Willis and Brooks Bratten explain what led them to this point (6:10). Plus, they answer fan questions about the trade deadline (50:20).
2021 NHL Trade Deadline Edition
April 09, 2021 23:31 - 57 minutes - 53 MBThe NHL Trade Deadline nears. Will the Predators buy, sell or keep their same roster (38:30)? Sportsnet's David Amber joins the podcast to help lend his expertise to answering the looming questions (20:38). Plus, the Predators have won 11 of 13 games and look like a playoff team despite their many injuries. Thomas Willis and Brooks Bratten explain what led them to this point (6:10). Plus, they answer fan questions about the trade deadline (50:20).
Comedian Nate Bargatze
April 02, 2021 23:43 - 51 minutes - 47.5 MBThe Predators use a six-game winning streak to catch up with the Blackhawks in the standings (3:45). The playoff push is on with six weeks to go in the regular season (9:10). Comedian Nate Bargatze joins the podcast to discuss growing up in Nashville, being a fan of the Preds and working in stand-up comedy (17:25). Plus, Brooks Bratten and Thomas Willis look ahead to the trade deadline (12:20) and discuss the signing of defenseman David Farrance (40:45).
Carrier My Wayward Son
March 26, 2021 21:39 - 57 minutes - 52.8 MBRookie defenseman Alexandre Carrier has become an integral part of a Predators team that has won five out of its last six games. The young blueliner joins the show to discuss his journey to the NHL and answer some hilarious anything-but-hockey questions (20:05). Plus Thomas Willis and Brooks Bratten celebrate Rocco Grimaldi's four-goal game (2:30) and look at Nashville's playoff push (12:30).
Have Things Changed?
March 19, 2021 22:47 - 55 minutes - 50.9 MBThe franchise-record, eight-game road trip is near its end and the Predators are playing better (2:05). Has the outlook on the season changed? Should it? Preds broadcaster Willy Daunic joins the podcast to debate (13:31). Plus, Brooks Bratten and Thomas Willis discuss the numerous rookies in the lineup (39:00) and answer fan questions (47:30).
Welcome to the Show, Jeremy Davies
March 13, 2021 15:06 - 1 hour - 57.9 MBDefenseman Jeremy Davies makes his NHL debut and joins the podcast for an insightful interview about being recalled to the Predators, his collegiate career and living life with the same name as a famous actor (16:55). Brooks Bratten and Thomas Willis discuss the rash of Preds' injuries amongst the longest road trip in franchise history (2:30). Plus, they reflect on one year in the pandemic (37:45) and answer fan questions (57:00).
The Legendary Linda Cohn
March 05, 2021 23:24 - 53 minutes - 49.4 MBESPN Sportscenter anchor and NHL Insider Linda Cohn joins the podcast to give a national perspective on the Predators' 2020-21 season and discuss her broadcasting career (17:15). Thomas Willis and Brooks Bratten take their turn at trying to explain the Preds poor starts but strong third periods (5:10). Plus, the show answers fan questions and previews a 16-day road trip for Nashville (47:00).
The Chosen One
February 27, 2021 04:54 - 57 minutes - 52.8 MBAfter years of discussion, Predators forward Eeli Tolvanen joins the podcast himself to talk about his journey to Nashville, how he's grown and what's still to come. Brooks Bratten and Thomas Willis look at a week that began with promise but ended with disappointment for the Preds, outline the 2020-21 schedule changes and recap the Predators Cup.
Life on the Taxi Squad
February 20, 2021 01:50 - 52 minutes - 47.7 MBA strange week amid a strange season sees the Predators have two games postponed because of a winter storm (5:37). Nashville later falls 3-0 in their contest in Columbus. Brooks Bratten and Thomas Willis discuss the state of the team past the quarter mark of the season (9:45). Predators forward Michael McCarron joins the show to talk life on the taxi squad (21:30). Plus, the Preds team up with Bridgestone and the NHL to make hockey accessible for all youth (41:25).
The Philip Tomasino Question
February 13, 2021 03:36 - 56 minutes - 51.9 MBThe Predators fight to find their form at the 15-game mark of the 2020-21 season. After injuries to several key players, Nashville claims a victory over an old rival (7:30). Milwaukee Admirals GM & Predators Director of Player Development Scott Nichol joins the podcast to talk about the Predators' top prospects: Tomasino, Pitlick, Carrier and others (17:55). Thomas Willis and Brooks Bratten answer fan questions about the logistics of the taxi squad and the relevance of home-ice advantage (45...
The Biloxi Boy
February 05, 2021 23:55 - 56 minutes - 52.1 MBThe Predators complete one of the most dramatic comebacks in franchise history to top the Panthers, 6-5, in overtime (5:00). Brooks Bratten reports from Florida as the Preds complete their four-game road trip (10:30), and Thomas Willis takes a look at special teams and the standings (17:00). Plus, Preds rookie forward Mathieu Olivier joins the podcast fresh off his first NHL goal (23:00). Finally, the show talks Reverse Retro jerseys (43:30) and a connection with Vanderbilt Health (42:00).
Learning Lessons, Road Life and the Predsident
January 29, 2021 16:09 - 1 hour - 57 MBThe Predators return home to Nashville and win two against the Blackhawks (6:50). What lessons are being learned by the team early in the season, and what's new about this year? Then, Brooks Bratten and Thomas Willis chat with Predators President and CEO Sean Henry on the business side of hockey (21:40). Plus, learn what life is like on the road (44:00) and hear your Twitter questions answered (51:40).
Early-Season Evaluation; Meeting Sbisa
January 22, 2021 18:48 - 58 minutes - 53.4 MBThe Predators get out to a 2-1-0 start to the 2020-21 season; what have we learned so far? Brooks Bratten and Thomas Willis discuss their early-season observations (11:13), and they chat with defenseman Luca Sbisa (20:30) about joining the Preds after being claimed on Waivers from Winnipeg. Plus, the Predators deal with a postponed game (4:10), and Twitter questions are answered (45:45).
At Least 31 Thoughts On The Preds
January 16, 2021 16:10 - 50 minutes - 46.6 MBThe 2020-21 NHL season is officially underway. Nashville is victorious on Opening Night (1:10) with new players making an immediate impact. Sportsnet NHL Insider Elliotte Friedman joins the show (20:55) to discuss the Preds and the "most unpredictable season" of all time. Plus, Brooks Bratten and Thomas Willis analyze Nashville's roster (7:40) and answer your Twitter questions (41:45) from the week.
Hockey, REAL HOCKEY!
January 09, 2021 01:58 - 50 minutes - 46.3 MBPredators forward Erik Haula makes his debut on the podcast and talks about his newborn son and recently adopted puppy (21:45). Training Camp Presented by Vanderbilt Health is underway, and Brooks Bratten and Thomas Willis share what they've learned about the 2020-21 version of the Preds (4:25). Plus, hear a recap of the Preds prospects at the 2021 World Junior Championship (40:20) and an update on Nashville's AHL team affiliation (34:45).
Happy New Year, Happy Hockey!
December 31, 2020 23:23 - 53 minutes - 48.7 MBThe calendar flips to 2021 and the Predators return to the ice. Preds Head Coach John Hynes joins the show to discuss changes to his team's roster and previews training camp (22:00). The podcast breaks down the signings of forwards Mikael Granlund and Erik Haula (6:30). Plus, Thomas Willis and Brooks Bratten explain the new taxi squad addition to the roster and speculate about who could be on it. (39:30).
Bonus Episode: Preds Hockey Is Back
December 21, 2020 19:33 - 31 minutes - 29.2 MBHockey is back, and that calls for a bonus episode of the Preds Official Podcast. Brooks Bratten and Thomas Willis break down the NHL and NHLPA's agreement (2:16) to play a 56-game 2020-21 season, starting Jan. 13. The show reveals all the details - including a new-look Central Division (4:42) for the Predators - in this special edition of the program.
Merry Christmas and World Juniors
December 19, 2020 00:27 - 51 minutes - 47 MBA 2021 NHL season inches closer, but unanswered questions remain. Thomas Willis and Brooks Bratten pass along details on what hockey could look like in the new year (6:00). Plus, Preds forward Philip Tomasino joins the show (28:45) to discuss his impending play for Team Canada at the 2021 IIHF World Juniors Championship.
It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Hockey
December 11, 2020 15:43 - 47 minutes - 43.9 MBDetails about the 2021 season are filtering out via reports and rumors. With a possible return to hockey coming in early January, Brooks Bratten and Thomas Willis filter through the news to explain what the Nashville Predators' season could look like. The duo also answers fan Twitter questions on the 2021 Expansion Draft, available free agents and fantasy football.
J-P Dumont and Christmas Music
December 03, 2020 21:03 - 51 minutes - 46.7 MBFormer Preds forward J-P Dumont explains what free agents are going through prior to the 2021 season and discusses his involvement in high school hockey (12:45). Brooks Bratten and Thomas Willis recap Hockey Fights Cancer month and share the story of cancer survivor Marshall Billingsley (32:30). Plus, the show returns from Thanksgiving break to provide updates on Preds prospects and the World Junior Championships (9:10).
Meeting Matt Benning and Happy Thanksgiving
November 20, 2020 17:32 - 52 minutes - 48.1 MBDefenseman Matt Benning has arrived in Smashville, and he joins the show to chat about signing with the Preds, road tripping across the continent and his favorite Thanksgiving cabbage rolls. Also, Thomas Willis and Brooks Bratten discuss Nashville’s new Reverse Retro jersey, provide updates on the 2021 season and share how Pekka Rinne is giving back. Plus, the ever-popular Thanksgiving food debate returns!
Assistant Coaches in Cars
November 14, 2020 16:06 - 49 minutes - 45.5 MBPredators Assistant Coach Todd Richards joins the show (13:40) for his first interview since arriving in Nashville. Richards looks back on beginning his career in Milwaukee, winning the Stanley Cup with Tampa Bay and what he sees in this Preds team. Plus, Brooks Bratten and Thomas Willis have updates from the NHL on the 2021 season (1:30), a groundbreaking in Clarksville (10:15) and news from the Preds over the past week (33:00).
Storytime with Skillsy
November 06, 2020 18:17 - 52 minutes - 48.4 MBWith Thomas Willis off for the week, Predators Radio Analyst and former NHL defenseman Hal Gill joins Brooks Bratten as a guest co-host on Episode 107 of the show. 'Skillsy' talks the current state of the Preds, his career as a player and how he became a broadcaster. Gill also tells stories about former teammates like Roman Josi and Pekka Rinne and also answers listener questions. Plus, learn how you can get involved and help the Preds in their Hockey Fights Cancer efforts.
New Assistant Coach; Cousins Joins
October 29, 2020 21:14 - 52 minutes - 48 MBFor no other reason than being the episode closest to Halloween, the show schedule is flipped on its head! Brooks Bratten and Thomas Willis answer listener questions about the Predators' second line and the potential of forwards Eeli Tolvanen and Philip Tomasino (21:20). Plus, Nashville hires Todd Richards as an assistant coach (3:45). Finally, Preds forward Nick Cousins chats about his recent wedding and raising a puppy with his wife (29:12).
Meeting Brad Richardson
October 23, 2020 13:25 - 48 minutes - 44.2 MBVeteran forward Brad Richardson introduces himself to Preds fans with his debut on the podcast. The forward discusses his connections to the Nashville coaching staff and talks penalty killing and locker room leadership. Plus, Thomas Willis and Brooks Bratten chat about the new jersey numbers selected by several Preds players and say thank you to broadcaster Mike "Doc" Emrick.
Welcome to Nashville, Boro Cop
October 15, 2020 21:05 - 49 minutes - 45.7 MBThe Predators make a number of changes to their roster as the NHL's Free Agency period opens, including the additions of Mark Borowiecki, Nick Cousins, Brad Richardson and Matt Benning. Brooks Bratten and Thomas Willis break down the moves and look at what's next for the Preds. Plus, Borowiecki makes his debut on the show to discuss his "Boro Cop" nickname in an entertaining interview.
2020 NHL Free Agency
October 08, 2020 19:16 - 51 minutes - 47.1 MBDuring the 2020 NHL Draft, the Predators trade for forward Luke Kunin, draft goaltender Iaroslav Askarov and part ways with center Kyle Turris. Kunin joins the show; plus, hear analysis on the seven players drafted by the Preds. Next, the opening of free agency looms and Nashville could add a big name like Taylor Hall and strengthen their defensive corps.
2020 NHL Draft Preview
October 02, 2020 20:11 - 47 minutes - 43.6 MBThe Predators are slated to pick at No. 11 overall at the NHL Draft from Oct. 6 to 7. Nashville Chief Amateur Scout Tom Nolan joins the show to set the stage for an unprecedented, virtual draft. NHL Free Agency opens on Oct. 9, and Preds GM David Poile discusses who could be leaving or joining the team for the 2020-21 season.
Roman Josi Wins the Norris Trophy
September 25, 2020 20:37 - 51 minutes - 46.7 MBPreds Captain Roman Josi wins the Norris Trophy as the NHL's best defenseman. His wife, Ellie, joins the show to discuss the surprise party for Roman Josi Day and reveals the gender of their baby due in February. Plus, Thomas Willis and Brooks Bratten discuss the new contracts for forwards Yakov Trenin and Michael McCarron.
Episode 100
September 18, 2020 19:54 - 49 minutes - 45.5 MBThe Preds Official Podcast celebrates 100 episodes with giveaways of Mattias Ekholm and Calle Jarnkrok hockey sticks and Matt Duchene bobbleheads. Dan Hinote joins the show after being hired as a Preds assistant coach. Brooks Bratten and Thomas Willis look ahead to the 2020-21 season and answer listener-submitted audio questions.
Early Signs of New Direction
August 28, 2020 21:40 - 54 minutes - 50 MBThe first of the offseason changes have been made, as the Predators make adjustments to their coaching staff. Additionally, forward Eeli Tolvanen is loaned to Jokerit of the KHL ahead of the 2020-21 season. Plus, former Preds defenseman Dan Hamhuis joins the show to discuss his recent retirement.
What's the Solution?
August 14, 2020 22:07 - 52 minutes - 48 MBPredators GM David Poile and head coach John Hynes were clear in their end-of-season comments: the team must change in order to regain past success. What changes are coming to the roster? What's the early outlook for the 2020-21 season? Thomas Willis and Brooks Bratten discuss.
The Season Ends; Draft Lottery Primer
August 08, 2020 03:42 - 50 minutes - 46.4 MBThe Predators' up-and-down, wild-and-crazy 2019-20 season is at an end, as Nashville falls to the Arizona Coyotes in the Stanley Cup Qualifiers. Hear immediate reaction from forward Filip Forsberg, defenseman Ryan Ellis and head coach John Hynes. Plus, suddenly, the Preds have a shot at the No. 1 overall pick in the NHL Draft Lottery on Monday. Finally, NHL Chief Content Officer Steve Mayer joins the show.
Stanley Cup Qualifier Preview from the Bubble
August 01, 2020 01:48 - 56 minutes - 51.9 MBBrooks Bratten provides the inside scoop on the Secure Zone in Edmonton and updates listeners on the last week for the Predators. He and Thomas Willis also break down the Preds' 2-0 win in their exhibition game and look ahead to the start of the Stanley Cup Qualifiers.
Lessons From Training Camp
July 24, 2020 14:44 - 55 minutes - 50.5 MBThomas Willis and Brooks Bratten explain what they've gleaned from Training Camp, evaluate the Preds' expected roster and chat Roman Josi's Norris Trophy nomination. Predators winger Rocco Grimaldi joins the show to share what he's expecting in Edmonton and in the postseason.
Really, Truly, Back on the Ice
July 17, 2020 23:17 - 54 minutes - 49.7 MBThe Predators are a week into Training Camp, with their first game a little more than a week away. Defenseman Yannick Weber describes his involvement as the Preds player representative in the CBA extension ratification. Brooks Bratten and Thomas Willis tackle a slew of updates, including the game schedule, camp preparation for the Coyotes and the Preds' lineup.
The Biggest Day Yet
July 10, 2020 22:15 - 46 minutes - 42.5 MBAll of a sudden, hockey is here. The Predators open training camp this week and should start the Qualifying Round on August 1. NBC Sports & MSG Analyst Joe Micheletti joins the show to look ahead to games in the hub cities and shares the implications of the CBA extension. Brooks Bratten and Thomas Willis outline what should be a busy - and sports-filled - few weeks.
Hammer Time
June 26, 2020 20:17 - 50 minutes - 45.9 MBPredators defenseman Dan Hamhuis opens up about some of the challenges players will face with the NHL's Return To Play Plan. Plus, he proclaims Roman Josi's season to be the best he's ever witnessed. Brooks Bratten and Thomas Willis provide Hub City updates and tell the "life-saving" way their friendship began.
Colin Blackwell's Rookie Season
June 19, 2020 20:24 - 49 minutes - 45.5 MBPreds forward Colin Blackwell joins the show to chat quarantine life, Phase 3, facing the Coyotes and his rookie season. Nashville Head Coach John Hynes touches on the decision of picking a starting goaltender. Plus, Thomas Willis and Brooks Bratten discuss more details on potential hub cities and talk about the NHL20 Stanley Cup Final.
Why Roman Josi Should Win the Norris
June 12, 2020 20:32 - 52 minutes - 47.8 MBYou want stats? Advanced analytics? Personality attributes? The podcast makes the case for why Roman Josi should win the Norris Trophy as the NHL's best defenseman. Plus, NBC analyst and former NHL player Anson Carter joins the show to discuss NHL training camps opening on July 10 and share his thoughts on racial reconciliation.
Seeking Racial Equality in Hockey and the World
June 06, 2020 01:55 - 50 minutes - 46.3 MBSportsnet host David Amber joins the podcast to discuss the fight to end racism and the impact of racial inequality in hockey. Plus, he comments on the new playoff format details added to the NHL's Return To Play Plan. Thomas Willis and Brooks Bratten look at how goaltender Connor Ingram factors into the future of the Preds' net and answer fan Twitter questions.
The NHL's Return To Play Plan
May 29, 2020 22:40 - 52 minutes - 47.9 MBEleven weeks after the 2019-20 season is paused, the NHL reveals their Return To Play Plan, including playoff formatting and hub city options. Preds General Manager David Poile shares his thoughts on the developments. Brooks Bratten and Thomas Willis take a deep dive into the Predators' Qualifying Round matchup with the Coyotes, options for Nashville's 28-man roster and the timeline for hockey to resume.
Still a Hero, Colton Sissons
May 21, 2020 23:12 - 48 minutes - 44.1 MBOn the three-year anniversary of his hat trick winning the Western Conference for the Predators, forward Colton Sissons joins the Preds Official Podcast. Brooks Bratten and Thomas Willis explain the potential for the NHL to return to a 24-team playoff format, with the Preds facing the Coyotes.
The Voice and the Deputy Commissioner
May 15, 2020 20:53 - 49 minutes - 44.9 MBVoice of the Predators Pete Weber joins the show to discuss some of his top moments while broadcasting in Nashville. An interview with NHL Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly is aired, and Thomas Willis and Brooks Bratten talk NHL updates and answer your Twitter questions.
We've Missed You, Mike Fisher
May 09, 2020 00:46 - 47 minutes - 43.6 MBFormer Preds Captain Mike Fisher joins the show to talk life on his farm, reminisce about his time with the Predators and pass along some unique marriage advice. Plus, Brooks Bratten and Thomas Willis analyze some of the NHL resumption rumors, including a potential 24-team tournament.
Ketchup in Macaroni and Cheese?
May 01, 2020 23:48 - 49 minutes - 44.9 MBWe've come to this. Preds forward Kyle Turris joins the podcast to defend why he believes adding ketchup to macaroni and cheese is the way to go. Thomas Willis and Brooks Bratten share updates from video calls with goaltender Pekka Rinne and center Nick Bonino, comment on Joel Ward retiring and reflect some more on the 2017 postseason.