Stories of Strength, Innovation, and Legacy: Neil Smith, Adam Mendelsohn, Gary Pinkerton, and Aaron McDonald Join The Neil Haley Show

In this power-packed multi-segment episode of The Neil Haley Show, listeners are taken through a series of compelling stories that blend sports, innovation, patriotism, and business insight. Host Neil Haley brings together a remarkable lineup of guests — each one offering a unique perspective on leadership, resilience, and progress.

The episode opens with Stanley Cup–winning NHL General Manager Neil Smith in conversation with Kelly Springerof Talk Nutrition to Me. Smith shares emotional reflections on his journey from championship glory to personal tragedy after losing his son. His raw honesty about grief, trauma, and healing through helping others transforms the conversation into a powerful lesson on mental health and the importance of living in the present moment. Smith also introduces his podcast NHL Wraparound, celebrating the sport’s 100th anniversary and promoting deeper insight into the game.

Next, the focus shifts to technology and community building with Adam Mendelson, CEO and Founder of Pickle Pals. He discusses the explosive growth of pickleball and his mission to create the world’s largest pickleball community through his app. Joined by Neil, Adam outlines the app’s key features, upcoming Phase 2 developments, and its official partnership with Duper. His enthusiasm for uniting players worldwide—across skill levels, cultures, and ages—showcases the power of innovation driven by passion.

The third segment features Gary Pinkerton, a U.S. Navy veteran, author, and wealth strategist, hosted by Sherrie Price Clark of Storehouse Media Group. Pinkerton recounts his 30-year military career, his time commanding the nuclear submarine USS Tucson, and how his faith and financial wisdom inspired him to help families and business owners build generational wealth. His message celebrates America’s 250-year experiment in freedom, entrepreneurship, and the power of owning one’s financial destiny.

Finally, Tom Quigley, host of the Cutting Edge Benefits Podcast, welcomes Aaron McDonald of Medfinity Financial for a deep dive into disability insurance and small business protection. Together, they explore how innovative benefit strategies can protect employees, retain top talent, and add long-term business value. Their discussion highlights how financial preparation and insurance planning create peace of mind for both employers and employees.

From championship hockey and community apps to military leadership and financial empowerment, this episode embodies The Neil Haley Show’s mission — to connect inspiring voices who educate, uplift, and drive positive change across industries.

Guests Featured:

• Neil Smith – NHL Executive & Stanley Cup–Winning GM, Host of NHL Wraparound

• Kelly Springer – Founder of Kelly’s Choice, Host of Talk Nutrition to Me

• Adam Mendelson – CEO & Founder of Pickle Pals

• Gary Pinkerton – U.S. Navy Veteran, Wealth Strategist, Author

• Sherrie Price Clark – Host of Storehouse Media Group Podcast

• Tom Quigley – Host of Cutting Edge Benefits Podcast

• Aaron McDonald – Financial Strategist, Medfinity Financial

Episode Summary