On the latest episode of Gent’s Talk, we sat down with someone who truly needs no introduction—Pernell-Karl Sylvester Subban, better known as PK Subban or “Subbanator” on social media. A Canadian sports icon, PK made his mark as one of the NHL’s most dynamic and outspoken players, but his story didn’t stop when he hung up the skates. Now an NHL analyst with ESPN, a successful entrepreneur, and a dedicated philanthropist, PK is continuing to make major moves off the ice. In our conversation, he opened up about the mindset it takes to reach the top, the loneliness of chasing greatness, and how he’s applying that same fire to everything he’s doing now.
On Gent’s Talk, we’ve been spotlighting raw, unfiltered conversations with global changemakers, and this episode was no exception. Subban, who retired from professional hockey in 2022 after an illustrious 13-year career, didn’t hold back when reflecting on the realities of elite performance and the price that comes with pursuing greatness.
“Are you willing to go there?”
That was the question Subban returned to time and time again in the episode. “From 7 till 10, I’ll rip your head off,” he said, with a mix of conviction and candour. “That’s how I played. You’ve got to be willing to go there. You have to flirt with the edge—mentally, emotionally, physically—and still not cross the line. That’s what separates the good from the elite.”
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He unpacked what it takes to operate at a world-class level: the loneliness of training while everyone else is asleep, the mental switch you flip when you smell popcorn in the building and know it’s game time, and the absolute discipline of keeping your body and mind sharp every single day. “Winning isn’t supposed to be easy. Leadership isn’t supposed to be easy. It’s supposed to hurt.”
On identity and purpose beyond the rink
Perhaps one of the most striking parts of the conversation was Subban’s reflection on life after hockey. While many athletes struggle with the transition, Subban shared that the shift was natural for him because he never only saw himself as a hockey player.
“I always knew I had multiple layers,” he said. “I love the game, and I gave it everything, but I also love business, creativity, design—so the transition wasn’t hard. I just kept showing up for what I care about.”
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That purpose is now reflected in a number of ventures, including his philanthropic work through the PK Subban Foundation, a growing slate of projects through his production company Ugly Duck, and most recently, a wellness-focused partnership with WeCook. “This is my lifestyle,” he said. “I’ve always taken care of my body, but now I get to show others how to do it too—through nutrition, mindset, and consistency.”
The Canadian mentality
Subban also touched on what it means to wear the Canadian jersey, not just in international play but in how he approaches everything in life. “When you’re Canadian and you step into that locker room, you don’t have a choice. We leave it all on the ice. It’s team first. It’s grit. That’s our culture—and it’s unmatched.”
It’s this sense of duty that has fuelled everything from his Olympic gold medal win to his $10 million donation to the Montreal Children’s Hospital. “I’ve never had a bad day,” he said. “Only challenging ones. And I’ve been blessed to have the chance to make someone else’s life a little better because of what I do.”
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On confidence, criticism, and always betting on yourself
When asked about handling media criticism or public scrutiny, Subban was unwavering: “It never affected me. No one’s put more pressure on me than I’ve put on myself.” His mindset? Preparation. Obsession. And self-belief.
“I knew I wasn’t a fraud. I knew that even on my worst nights, I was giving everything I had,” he said. “The league will humble you if you’re not legit. And I knew I was legit.”
The former Norris Trophy winner also shared insights into his daily habits and training philosophy, from drinking eight litres of water a day to his years of hill sprints and long-distance runs that built the foundation for his explosive, high-minute playoff performance. “You’ve got to train your mind the same way you train your body. Your edge comes from preparation.”
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Looking ahead
With upcoming plans to expand his foundation and a number of storytelling projects in development through Ugly Duck, Subban shows no signs of slowing down. He teased upcoming fashion ventures and emphasized his desire to help uplift the next generation of athletes, entertainers, and everyday people looking to take better care of themselves.
“I want people to bet on themselves,” he said. “Whether you’re a pro athlete or a parent trying to be present for your kids, the formula’s the same: discipline, clarity, and being all in. Because when you show up for yourself, everything changes.”
As always, Gent’s Talk continues to provide a platform for deep, honest, and necessary conversations—reminding men everywhere that it’s okay to be vulnerable, strong, and complex, all at once.
Where to watch Gent’s Talk, season 10 episode 144?
The Gent’s Talk podcast is powered by Gent’s Post, a STAMINA Group Production. Season 10, episode 144 is now available to stream on all podcast platforms including, Youtube, Spotify, Apple iTunes/Podcasts, Goodpods, iHeartRadio, Audible, Amazon Music and Google Podcasts! Seasons 1-8 are on board Air Canada flights via the in-flight entertainment system, with limitations on select aircraft types. Please make sure to like, follow and subscribe. Your continued support throughout this journey is greatly appreciated.
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