This episode features a lively, hockey-fueled roundtable with Jacquelyn Nicholson, Constantine Johns, and host Mike Simmons. The trio dives into the second round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs, sharing personal stories, team loyalties, spirited banter, and insightful predictions—all through the lens of sports as a catalyst for connection, memory, and emotion.

“Playoff hockey, hands down, is the best entertainment I’ve ever seen.” – Constantine Johns

In this high-energy episode, Jacquelyn, Constantine, and Mike dissect round one of the Stanley Cup Playoffs and make bold predictions for round two. With deep personal ties to the sport, they explore how hockey has shaped their memories and identity, proving sports can be a powerful catalyst in life.

1. Sports Create Catalytic Memories

• Constantine recalls growing up watching Patrick Roy and the Avalanche lift the Cup.

• Jacquelyn shares childhood memories of fuzzy-TV Blackhawks games and tabletop hockey.

• Mike remembers frozen pond skating and the thrill of playoff intensity.

2. Shared Passion Builds Community

• The team has fun tracking predictions, brackets, and emotional team support.

• Friendly rivalries and shared experiences form strong bonds.

• Their family traditions (like mailing a plastic Stanley Cup) reinforce connection.

3. Resilience as a Game Changer

• Mike highlights how goalie Connor Hellebuyck overcame adversity in Game 7 as a catalyst moment.

• Constantine expresses heartbreak over the Avalanche loss, linking emotion to team loyalty.

• They emphasize how players grow stronger under playoff pressure.

4. Bias, Loyalty, and Fun Drive Engagement

• The crew openly admits their emotional (not always logical) picks.

• Teams like the Leafs, Oilers, and Panthers stir heated opinions.

• The playful tension among the group reveals how personal investment drives deep passion.

5. Change and Transition Spark Strong Reactions

• The Arizona Coyotes' move to Utah triggered strong emotional reactions.

• Nostalgia for local teams and childhood connections fueled frustration and loss.

• These changes highlight how teams often serve as emotional anchors.

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The Accidental CISO (AC) is an anonymous voice in cybersecurity who stumbled into the Chief Information Security Officer role through a mix of timing, skill, and necessity. With a background in IT operations and service delivery, AC found unexpected purpose, community, and a platform for candid reflection on security, leadership, and personal growth. He now hosts The Mindful Business Security Show, educating SMB leaders on practical security.

"I was just looking for a place to vent. I didn’t want to get fired for telling the truth."

"Security exists at the confluence of people, process, and technology—it's not just about tools."

"I'm more me under the persona than I actually am in real life."

In this episode, The Accidental CISO shares how he unintentionally stepped into a security leadership role, the power of anonymity, and how embracing his alter ego helped him find community, confidence, and a calling. He dives into the human side of cybersecurity, masking, and helping others through authenticity and honesty.

• AC became a CISO by accident, not ambition.

• He leaned into unfamiliar responsibilities and grew into the role.

• Sometimes, your catalyst finds you before you find it.

• Online anonymity gave AC a safe space to express frustrations and truth.

• He found a vibrant community that shared his struggles and passions.

• His persona became more “real” than the masked version of himself at work.

• AC believes in collaborative security—not saying “no” but saying “yes, and…”

• Security must align with business goals and risk tolerance.

• He views security as a multiplier when built with context and care.

• Risk is part of doing business and drives innovation.

• A mature approach balances safety with operational freedom.

• Security teams should advise, not own, risk decisions—that belongs to leadership.

• AC’s journey helped him understand and support his own neurodiversity.

• His experiences empowered deeper connection with his children, who face similar challenges.

• Real leadership starts with knowing who you are and finding your people.

Learn. Think. and Act. with us every Sunday. Our Sunday email is filled with sections dedicated to helping leaders Learn. Think. and Act. These short weekly emails will help you make a difference and accelerate speed to impact at work, with self, and within your family.
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Follow AC at - https://www.accidentalciso.net/

• "It is playoff hockey time—the best time of year."

• "If you're not a hockey fan, become one during the playoffs; the intensity is absolutely amazing."

• "Find a player, find a team, find a story—and enjoy your playoff hockey journey."

Mike and Jacqueline break down the opening round of the 2025 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs. They compare their brackets, share hockey fandom stories, and highlight key players to watch. It's a mix of friendly banter, expert insights, and encouragement for new fans to fall in love with playoff hockey’s unmatched excitement.

• Playoff hockey demands unmatched intensity—players dig deep to win.

• Fans' passion creates lasting loyalty, driving deep team connections.

• Find your personal "playoff moment" to ignite passion in your work or life.

• Playoff upsets and overtime games show that anything can happen.

• Embracing uncertainty builds resilience and reveals hidden strengths.

• Catalysts often emerge from surprising, pressure-filled moments.

• Heart picks (like cheering for the Senators) bring joy even if risky.

• Emotional decisions, when thoughtful, can lead to meaningful experiences.

• Don't be afraid to follow your heart when finding your catalyst.

• Hockey communities create bonds that last beyond the season.

• Shared experiences and team spirit are vital for long-term motivation.

• Building a community around your catalyst can speed up your growth.

• Win or lose, playoff hockey is about the journey, not just the Cup.

• Progress, learning, and enjoyment are key parts of finding fulfillment.

• Focus on the small wins and personal growth along your catalyst journey.

Learn. Think. and Act. with us every Sunday.
Our Sunday email is filled with sections dedicated to helping leaders Learn. Think. and Act. These short weekly emails will help you make a difference and accelerate speed to impact at work, with self, and within your family.
Subscribe here: https://www.findmycatalyst.com/learn-think-act-opt-in