What happens when passion, perseverance, and an unshakable attitude come together? You get Ross Bernstein—a man who turned life’s toughest setbacks into opportunities and built an incredible career fueled by his love for hockey and storytelling.

Ross’s journey started at just 10 years old, when he watched the Miracle on Ice—the 1980 U.S. hockey team’s legendary victory over the Soviet Union. That unforgettable moment lit a fire within him, sparking a dream to be part of the game. Determined, he tried out for the University of Minnesota hockey team, but fate had something else in store. Instead of making the roster, he landed an unexpected role—as the team’s mascot. His hockey skills may not have impressed the coaches, but his relentless energy and unwavering spirit did. As Ross puts it, "Will beats skill."

That mindset pushed him to take a bold risk—he invested his graduate school savings into writing his first book. It was a gamble that paid off, turning into a runaway success and launching him into a career as a best-selling author and sought-after speaker.

One of the most influential figures in his life was Herb Brooks, the legendary coach behind the Miracle on Ice. Over time, they developed a deep friendship and even became business partners, collaborating on a book together. But when Brooks tragically died in a car accident, Ross was faced with yet another test of resilience. Instead of letting grief consume him, he searched for the silver lining and found a way to honor his mentor’s legacy—co-founding the Herb Brooks Foundation with Herb’s family to continue inspiring young athletes.

In this powerful conversation with Devon Harris, Ross opens up about how life’s toughest moments can lead to extraordinary success, the invaluable lessons he’s learned from elite athletes, and why attitude, resilience, and heart always outweigh pure talent.

Tune in for a conversation filled with grit, passion, and the unbreakable will to win—on and off the ice!