Neil Smith is the former general manager of the New York Rangers, where he led the team to a Stanley Cup win in 1994. Throughout his professional career, Neil has been credited with identifying some of the great talents of the National Hockey League (NHL) and is regarded as one of the most highly influential executives in the NHL. Neil now serves as an on-air analyst for the NHL and an advocate in the mental health space. In this episode of Client Conversations With Craig Budner, Neil and Craig discuss Neil’s career in the NHL as well as the death of his son and the journey that has followed.
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Neil Smith's Podcast: https://nhlwraparound.com/

Alvin Hall is a television and radio broadcaster, bestselling author, podcaster, and financial educator. In this episode of Client Conversations With Craig Budner, Alvin discusses his early life in segregation, the eventual integration of his county, and his transformative time in a summer program at Yale University. He also speaks of his recently released book, Driving the Green Book: A Road Trip Through the Living History of Black Resistance, and the importance and cultural significance of the stories told. Alvin’s life story and career path exemplify the power of hard work, dedication, and passion for growth, showing how learning from life’s experiences and the people around you can lead to success.

Alison Fragale is a research psychologist, award-winning professor at UNC Chapel Hill, international keynote speaker, and author who empowers ambitious women by providing them with science-based strategies to advocate for their own interests. In this episode of Client Conversations With Craig Budner, Alison discusses her newly released book, Likeable Badass: How Women Get the Success They Deserve, an evidence-based, ultra-practical read for every woman who is ready to take charge of their success. Alison provides valuable insights for all listeners, particularly women, on how to achieve their goals, excel in their careers, and be respected leaders, mentors, and colleagues.

Bill Neal is an author and writer, producer, and director of several documentary films and television series. In addition, Bill is a former college and professional hockey coach and color analyst on ESPN Hockey. In this episode of Client Conversations With Craig Budner, Bill discusses his background, including his education and fascinating coaching career, with interesting lessons for all of us on the benefits of creativity and collaboration. He also dives into his leading role on the Chicago Bears 1985 Super Bowl Shuffle, E! True Hollywood Story, and one of his most recent projects, Long Gone Wild, a documentary shedding light on the plight of captive orcas. Bill’s journey is relevant to all of us as a coach, creator and collaborator.

Harold Kaufman is the senior director of media relations and communications for sports and entertainment at Tony Fay PR, serving some of the biggest brands in sports and entertainment as well as supporting the growth of philanthropic entities. In addition, Harold serves as the director of communications for SportsMeter. In this episode of Client Conversations With Craig Budner, Harold discusses his 35-year career working in media relations, crisis strategy, and more, focused on the sports industry.

Jae Broderick is a writer and motivational speaker who uses her platforms to inspire and empower audiences through storytelling and music. In this episode of Client Conversations With Craig Budner, Jae and Craig discuss her background and upbringing in Jamaica as well as her journey to beginning her life and career in a new country. Jae provides valuable advice on embracing your vulnerabilities and the importance of accepting criticism.

Talmage Boston is an award-winning commercial litigator, bar leader, historian, and keynote speaker. In this episode of Client Conversations With Craig Budner, Talmage delves into his career as a historian and author inspired by his love for baseball and how he balances this path with his highly successful legal career.

Casey Kaplan, a K&L Gates alum, is the head of compliance at Nike where he currently serves as the senior legal director of global ethics and compliance. In this episode of Client Conversations With Craig Budner, Casey and Craig discuss his career and the Nike philosophy, giving back to the community, the psychology of leadership, and more.