Luke Prokop

Presented by
Wounded Warrior Project

This episode contains content and topics that may be difficult for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised.

In 2021, Nashville Predators prospect Luke Prokop came out as gay in a social media post, making him the first player under contract to an NHL team to do so. His announcement was received positively by family, friends, and teammates. But acceptance wasn’t a given. The year leading up to his announcement, Luke struggled under the immense pressure of his secret. In the end, he had a choice to make about his mental health, and he decided he had to be his true self, no matter the costs. On this episode, hear about how Luke now plays with a new freedom, knowing that he can be who he is — on and off the ice. 

About Our Hosts:

Former NHL goaltender Corey Hirsch and psychiatrist Dr. Diane McIntosh team up on Blindsided to help professional athletes to open up about mental health. The podcast lets listeners hear about the moments when mental health became the athlete’s most important focus.

FEATURED STORIES

Before Georges Laraque was a sports commentator and a political leader, he was a notorious enforcer in the NHL ... His depression and anxiety led him to seek professional help, and through therapy Georges was finally able to identify his traumas.

Corey Hirsch, Dr. Diane McIntosh, Georges Laraque
Presented by Wounded Warrior Project

Living with depression is an everyday battle, and to Eddie, opening up about his struggles is just the beginning.

Corey Hirsch, Dr. Diane McIntosh, Eddie Kingston
Presented by Wounded Warrior Project

From a young age, former NHL player Sheldon Kennedy was sexually abused by his junior hockey coach, Graham James, a prominent figure in his hockey community.

Corey Hirsch, Dr. Diane McIntosh, Sheldon Kennedy
Presented by Wounded Warrior Project