In this episode, I was lucky enough to interview Bill Near, Founder and CEO of Helios, a performance wearable helping hockey players and teams improve faster through motion-based data and video integration.

Bill breaks down Helios’ first-principles approach to avoiding “tech fatigue” by delivering recurring, practical value—most notably through time-saving video workflows and emerging AI-driven coaching insights that turn raw data into actionable development guidance for players and parents alike.

Bill also shares the personal and technical journey behind Helios, from growing up playing hockey in New Hampshire to studying engineering at MIT and recognizing a critical gap in player development technology. He explains how Helios was built as a zero-infrastructure solution using motion sensors rather than rink-based tracking, enabling scalable adoption across youth, collegiate, and professional levels.

Be inspired by Bill Near’s clear-eyed take on data, coaching, and building technology athletes actually stick with on in this episode of The First Customer!


Guest Info:
Helios
https://helioshockey.com/


Bill Near's LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/billnear/

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https://www.linkedin.com/in/jayaigner/
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