

Our Kids Play Hockey
Our Kids Play Hockey
Our Kids Play Hockey is a podcast that focuses on youth hockey, offering insights, stories, and interviews from the hockey community. It provides valuable advice for parents, coaches, and players, covering various aspects of the game, including skill development, sportsmanship, teamwork, and creating a positive experience for young athletes. The show frequently features guests who share their expertise and personal experiences in youth hockey, both on and off the ice.The show features three hockey parents, who all work in the game at high levels: Christie Casciano-Burns - USA Hockey Columnist, Author, and WSYR AnchorMike Bonelli - USA Hockey Coach and Organizational ConsultantLee M.J. Elias - Hockey Entrepreneur, Author, and Team StrategistIn addition to the main podcast, there are several spin-off series that dive into specific aspects of youth hockey:1.Our Girls Play Hockey – This series highlights the growing presence of girls in hockey, addressing the unique challenges they face while celebrating their accomplishments and contributions to the sport.2.The Ride to The Rink – A shorter, motivational series designed to be listened to on the way to the rink, offering quick, inspirational tips and advice to help players and parents get into the right mindset before a game or practice. 3.Our Kids Play Goalie – This series is dedicated to young goalies and the unique challenges they face. It provides advice for players, parents, and coaches on how to support and develop young goaltenders, focusing on the mental and physical demands of the position.Together, these shows provide a comprehensive platform for parents, players, and coaches involved in youth hockey, offering insights for all aspects of the sport, from parenting, playing, or coaching to specialized positions like goaltending.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 9, 2025 • 9min
The Ride to The Rink - How to Compete AND Support: Ian Shane on Why Great Goaltenders Think About Others First
🚨 What’s the most underrated skill in hockey? It’s not speed. It’s not saves. It’s not even scoring goals. According to pro goalie Ian Shane (Cornell standout, now playing at the pro level), the real game-changer is being a great teammate.In this week’s episode of The Ride to the Rink, Lee, Mike, and Christie sit down with Ian to explore what makes a true difference-maker in the locker room — and how learning to lift others up can actually improve your own game.🔥 In this episode, you’ll hear:Why shifting your focus to others can pull you out of a funkHow goalies can build positive, competitive partnerships with each otherThe importance of asking questions and learning from older playersStrategies to flip negative thoughts about yourself or teammates into growth opportunitiesIan’s inspiring journey: from a California hockey kid ➝ third-string at Cornell ➝ four-year starter ➝ proWhether you’re a goalie, skater, or hockey parent, Ian’s insights go way beyond the crease. This episode is packed with advice to help kids grow as players, leaders, and teammates both on and off the ice.🎧 Hit play on this ride and discover why the best teammates aren’t just good for the team — they make the game more fun, too.👉 Don’t forget to subscribe to Our Kids Play Hockey for more powerful content every week!📖 Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: How to Compete AND Support: Ian Shane on Why Great Goaltenders Think About Others FirstClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! 🚨 Big news—Dangle Pro is here, the world’s first mixed-reality stickhandling trainer. Using Meta Quest, players dangle through live 3D obstacles, earn points, and build faster hands with their head up. Officially licensed by the NHL and trusted by USA Hockey, it’s the future of training. Sign up at SenseArena.com/OKPH with code OKPH for $25 off an annual subscription. 🏒Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media: Facebook Group X Instagram LinkedIn YouTube

Oct 7, 2025 • 43min
All Caps All Her: How Jessie Thompson is Growing Women’s Hockey with the Washington Capitals
🏒 Can women's hockey break through the ice ceiling?In this game-changing episode of Our Girls Play Hockey, we're joined by Jessie Thompson from the Washington Capitals to explore their groundbreaking "All Caps All Her" initiative. From learn-to-play programs to leadership development, Jessie shares how the Capitals are revolutionizing women's hockey and creating a more inclusive ice for all.🔥 Highlights Include:The four pillars of the All Caps All Her program that are transforming the game 🏛️How an 85-year-old player named Linda is inspiring a new generation of hockey lovers 👵Breaking down barriers: Tackling equipment costs and ice time challenges head-on 💪Creating a welcoming rink for everyone, regardless of gender identity or experience 🌈The secret sauce for building successful women's hockey programs from the ground up 🚀Whether you're a player, coach, or hockey parent, this episode is packed with actionable insights and heartwarming stories that'll have you lacing up your skates and hitting the ice!🎧 Don't miss this power play of an episode—tune in now and join the movement to grow women's hockey!💬 Got questions or ideas? Share them with us at team@ourkidsplayhockey.com📖 Want a written version you can reference anytime?Check out our companion blog: All Caps All Her: How Jessie Thompson is Growing Women’s Hockey with the Washington Capitals#WomensHockey #AllCapsAllHer #GrowTheGame #HockeyForAll #OurGirlsPlayHockey #WashingtonCapitalsClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! 🚨 Big news—Dangle Pro is here, the world’s first mixed-reality stickhandling trainer. Using Meta Quest, players dangle through live 3D obstacles, earn points, and build faster hands with their head up. Officially licensed by the NHL and trusted by USA Hockey, it’s the future of training. Sign up at SenseArena.com/OKPH with code OKPH for $25 off an annual subscription. 🏒Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media: Facebook Group X Instagram LinkedIn YouTube

Oct 4, 2025 • 1h 9min
Our Kids Play Goalie - ECAC Goalie of the Year, Ian Shane on Mindset, Adversity, And Doing Your Best
🔥 From backyard rinks in California to shutting the door at Cornell, Ian Shane’s journey is anything but ordinary.On this week’s episode of Our Kids Play Goalie, Lee, Christie, and Mike sit down with the ECAC Goaltender of the Year and Cornell standout to talk about his path, his mindset, and what it really takes to thrive in the crease.✅ Growing up outside of a traditional hockey market✅ Seizing opportunity after starting as a third-string freshman✅ Developing mental toughness and present-moment awareness✅ The role of adversity, preparation, and fun in goaltending ✅ How NHL Sense Arena (VR training) keeps him sharp and confidentWhether you’re a goalie parent, a coach, or just curious about the mental side of the game, Ian’s story offers lessons that go far beyond the crease. His perspective on pressure, competition, and leadership is a masterclass for anyone who loves the game.🎙️ Tune in to hear how this California kid became an Ivy League star and is now taking the next step into professional hockey.👉 Share this with your goalie, your goalie’s coach, or anyone who needs a reminder that the journey is just as important as the destination.📖 Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: ECAC Goalie of the Year, Ian Shane on Mindset, Adversity, And Doing Your BestClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! 🚨 Big news—Dangle Pro is here, the world’s first mixed-reality stickhandling trainer. Using Meta Quest, players dangle through live 3D obstacles, earn points, and build faster hands with their head up. Officially licensed by the NHL and trusted by USA Hockey, it’s the future of training. Sign up at SenseArena.com/OKPH with code OKPH for $25 off an annual subscription. 🏒Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media: Facebook Group X Instagram LinkedIn YouTube

Oct 2, 2025 • 7min
The Ride to The Rink: Eat Like a Pro, Play Like a Pro with Enduraphin Co-Founders
🥑🏒 What if your pre-game snack was the difference between skating strong or running out of gas halfway through the game?In this week’s episode of The Ride to the Rink, we’re tackling something every young player can control — what they eat. We sat down with nutrition experts who work with pro athletes and Division I players to break down how the right food choices help kids perform their best on the ice.🍌 Highlights include:Why a banana beats a bag of chips every timeHow small, consistent food choices build long-term successThe “win breakfast, win lunch, win dinner” mindset for young athletesEasy tips for learning to read food labels (and what to avoid!)Why even little players can have a big say in grocery shopping with mom or dadThis episode is packed with kid-friendly advice that makes nutrition fun, simple, and game-changing. Whether it’s choosing fruit over chips or learning why pros value consistency over “cheat meals,” your young hockey player will leave with practical steps to start fueling like an athlete today.Because the truth is simple: 💡 winning starts with what you put on your plate.👉 Tune in now and share this with a hockey family who needs a boost in the kitchen and on the ice.📖 Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: Winning Starts in the Kitchen: Hockey Nutrition Tips for Young Athletes #YouthHockey #HockeyParents #HockeyNutrition #FuelForHockey #KidsInSports #HockeyTips #OurKidsPlayHockeyClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! 🚨 Big news—Dangle Pro is here, the world’s first mixed-reality stickhandling trainer. Using Meta Quest, players dangle through live 3D obstacles, earn points, and build faster hands with their head up. Officially licensed by the NHL and trusted by USA Hockey, it’s the future of training. Sign up at SenseArena.com/OKPH with code OKPH for $25 off an annual subscription. 🏒Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media: Facebook Group X Instagram LinkedIn YouTube

Sep 30, 2025 • 10min
The Ride To The Rink - Be the Teammate Everyone Remembers: Lessons from Taylor Heise & Hayley Scamurra
What makes a truly great teammate? It’s not just about scoring goals or making big plays—it’s about how you treat the people around you.In this episode of The Ride to the Rink, PWHL stars Taylor Heise and Hayley Scamurra share powerful stories about what it means to be the kind of teammate that others never forget. From offering encouragement and building confidence to accepting challenges and learning from mistakes, they remind us that being a great teammate is about character, respect, and care for others.Taylor talks about the importance of surrounding yourself with people who lift you up and challenge you, while Hayley reflects on how different influences (both tough love and warm support) helped shape her into the player and person she is today.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why the best teammates aren’t always the most skilledHow encouragement and honesty both make teams strongerThe balance between surrounding yourself with cheerleaders and challengersWhy confidence in others is just as important as confidence in yourselfThe simple ways you can make a teammate’s day—on or off the iceNo matter your age or skill level, this episode is a reminder: you don’t need hockey skills to be a great teammate—you just need to care.📖 Want a written version you can reference anytime?Check out our companion blog: Be the Teammate Everyone Remembers: Lessons from Taylor Heise & Hayley ScamurraClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! 🚨 Big news—Dangle Pro is here, the world’s first mixed-reality stickhandling trainer. Using Meta Quest, players dangle through live 3D obstacles, earn points, and build faster hands with their head up. Officially licensed by the NHL and trusted by USA Hockey, it’s the future of training. Sign up at SenseArena.com/OKPH with code OKPH for $25 off an annual subscription. 🏒Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media: Facebook Group X Instagram LinkedIn YouTube

Sep 27, 2025 • 52min
The Power of Proper Fueling in Youth Hockey with Enduraphin Founders Danny Drake & Mike Dalberth
🏒 Are you fueling your young hockey star for success or setting them up for a nutritional penalty?In this game-changing episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, Lee, Mike, and Christy team up with nutrition powerhouses Danny Drake and Mike Dalberth from Enduraphin to crack the code on youth hockey nutrition. From pre-game meals to post-game recovery, we're serving up a feast of knowledge that'll transform how you think about feeding your young athletes.🔥 Highlights Include:• The secret recipe for building champion-level eating habits 🍽️• Why your breakfast decisions could make or break your game 🥚• How to create a team culture that celebrates smart nutrition choices 🏆• The truth about sports supplements and what you really need to know 🧪• Expert tips for navigating the minefield of nutrition marketing 🎯Whether you're a coach looking to boost team performance, a parent trying to make sense of conflicting nutrition advice, or a young player aiming for the big leagues, this episode is your nutritional playbook for success on and off the ice.🎧 Don't miss out on this power play of practical advice and game-changing insights!📚 Resources mentioned:• SportsRD.org - Your go-to for reliable sports nutrition info• NSF Certified for Sport & Informed Sport - Look for these labels on supplements📖 Want a written version you can reference anytime?Check out our companion blog:Winning at Sports Nutrition: Habits That Fuel Young Hockey Players💬 Got questions about fueling your young athlete? Shoot us a message at team@ourkidsplayhockey.com.#YouthHockeyNutrition #SportsPerformance #HealthyAthletes #OurKidsPlayHockey #Enduraphin #NutritionTipsClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! 🚨 Big news—Dangle Pro is here, the world’s first mixed-reality stickhandling trainer. Using Meta Quest, players dangle through live 3D obstacles, earn points, and build faster hands with their head up. Officially licensed by the NHL and trusted by USA Hockey, it’s the future of training. Sign up at SenseArena.com/OKPH with code OKPH for $25 off an annual subscription. 🏒Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media: Facebook Group X Instagram LinkedIn YouTube

Sep 25, 2025 • 10min
The Ride To The Rink - More Than a Hockey Player: Taylor Heise & Hayley Scamurra on Identity and Balance
It’s easy to get caught up in hockey and start thinking the sport defines who you are. But in this episode of The Ride to the Rink, two PWHL stars—Taylor Heise and Hayley Scamurra—share why you’re always more than just a hockey player.They open up about the roles and hobbies that keep them grounded: being sisters, daughters, and aunts… baking, puzzles, pickleball, family time, and even online shopping. Both remind us that while hockey is important, it can’t be the only thing that defines you.Parents—this one’s for you too. Taylor and Hayley share wisdom on how you can support your child’s hockey journey without making their performance their entire identity. The most powerful words you can say? “I love you no matter what.”What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why it’s vital to build an identity beyond hockeyHow hobbies and passions outside the rink make you a better person (and player)Advice for parents on setting healthy expectations for their kidsThe importance of attitude, effort, and being a great teammate over statsHow pros like Taylor & Hayley find balance in their busy livesWhether you’re a young player dreaming big or a parent navigating the hockey grind, this episode is a reminder that hockey is something you do—not who you are.📖 Want a written version you can reference anytime?Check out our companion blog: More Than a Hockey Player: Taylor Heise & Hayley Scamurra on Identity and BalanceClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! 🚨 Big news—Dangle Pro is here, the world’s first mixed-reality stickhandling trainer. Using Meta Quest, players dangle through live 3D obstacles, earn points, and build faster hands with their head up. Officially licensed by the NHL and trusted by USA Hockey, it’s the future of training. Sign up at SenseArena.com/OKPH with code OKPH for $25 off an annual subscription. 🏒Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media: Facebook Group X Instagram LinkedIn YouTube

Sep 23, 2025 • 28min
PWHL Star Taylor Heise on Resilience, Olympic Dreams & The Future of Women’s Hockey
How do you balance Olympic dreams, pro hockey pressure, and still find joy in the game? 🏆🇺🇸In Part 2 of our conversation, Taylor Heise shares the habits, mindset, and lessons that fuel her success as a two-time Walter Cup champion and Playoff MVP.From being cut by Team USA to leading the PWHL’s next generation, Taylor opens up about resilience, confidence, and what it takes to thrive at the highest level.💡 And she’s not just talking hockey—this episode is loaded with life lessons that every athlete (and parent) needs to hear.Key Takeaways:• Why failure can be the best thing that ever happens to you• The biggest differences between college and pro hockey• How Taylor manages time and pressure in an Olympic year• Her message to kids: “Hockey is something I do, not who I am”• The bright future of women’s hockey—and why it matters for the next generationTaylor’s story is equal parts inspiring and practical. Whether your dream is the PWHL, the Olympics, or just being the best teammate you can be, this episode will light the way.🎧 Tune in now and be inspired by one of hockey’s brightest stars.📖 Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: PWHL Star Taylor Heise on Resilience, Olympic Dreams & The Future of Women’s Hockey#OurGirlsPlayHockey #TaylorHeise #WomensHockey #PWHL #HockeyLife #HockeyDevelopmentClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! 🚨 Big news—Dangle Pro is here, the world’s first mixed-reality stickhandling trainer. Using Meta Quest, players dangle through live 3D obstacles, earn points, and build faster hands with their head up. Officially licensed by the NHL and trusted by USA Hockey, it’s the future of training. Sign up at SenseArena.com/OKPH with code OKPH for $25 off an annual subscription. 🏒Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media: Facebook Group X Instagram LinkedIn YouTube

Sep 20, 2025 • 31min
PWHL Star Taylor Heise on Leadership, Legacy & Giving Back
Ready to discover how champions are made—even when the path isn’t perfect? 🏒🔥Taylor Heise, PWHL star and Team USA forward, joins Our Kids Play Hockey to share her incredible origin story—from picking up hockey at age 8 in a small Minnesota town to becoming the first-ever #1 overall pick in the PWHL draft.Her journey proves you don’t need AAA teams or an early start to reach the top. Instead, it’s about confidence, creativity, and smart decision-making.🚨 This episode is more than Taylor’s story—it’s packed with takeaways for players, parents, and coaches.Key Takeaways:• Why a late start in hockey doesn’t mean you’re behind• How basketball and the arts fueled Taylor’s hockey IQ• Lessons from playing on “B” teams (and why it helped, not hurt)• The role of hockey sense in separating good players from great ones• How technology like Sense Arena is giving kids an edgeWhether you’re a player chasing big dreams or a parent guiding your child’s journey, this episode will change how you see hockey development.🎧 Don’t miss Part 1 with Taylor Heise—then catch Part 2 on Our Girls Play Hockey!📖 Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: PWHL Star Taylor Heise on Leadership, Legacy & Giving Back#OurKidsPlayHockey #TaylorHeise #HockeyIQ #HockeyDevelopment #WomensHockey #PWHLClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! 🚨 Big news—Dangle Pro is here, the world’s first mixed-reality stickhandling trainer. Using Meta Quest, players dangle through live 3D obstacles, earn points, and build faster hands with their head up. Officially licensed by the NHL and trusted by USA Hockey, it’s the future of training. Sign up at SenseArena.com/OKPH with code OKPH for $25 off an annual subscription. 🏒Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media: Facebook Group X Instagram LinkedIn YouTube

Sep 18, 2025 • 9min
The Ride to The Rink: Unlocking Creativity on Ice with Christian Grunnah
Ready to unlock your hockey potential? 🏒✨"Ride to the Rink" serves up a game-changing episode on creativity in skating and hockey. Guest Christian Grunnah from Grow Up Power Skating drops wisdom bombs that'll revolutionize your approach to the ice.Ever wondered how off-ice activities could level up your game? Or why mastering your edges might be more crucial than stick handling? This episode's got answers that'll make you rethink your training routine.🔑 Key Takeaways:• Creativity is king — approach each shift as a blank canvas• Theater skills = better teamwork (seriously!)• Skating mastery: your secret weapon for effortless play• Focus on others to elevate your own gameGrunnah challenges players to think beyond the puck. "The best part about our game is that we have to play together in order to be effective," he says. It's time to break out of your bubble and see the bigger picture on the ice.Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned player, this episode is packed with insights to transform your game. Ready to paint your masterpiece on the ice? Tune in and let's get creative! 🎨⛸️📖 Want a written version you can reference anytime?Check out our companion blog: Unlocking Creativity on Ice with Christian Grunnah#RideToTheRink #HockeyCreativity #SkatingSkills #TeamworkMakesTheDreamWorkClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! 🚨 Big news—Dangle Pro is here, the world’s first mixed-reality stickhandling trainer. Using Meta Quest, players dangle through live 3D obstacles, earn points, and build faster hands with their head up. Officially licensed by the NHL and trusted by USA Hockey, it’s the future of training. Sign up at SenseArena.com/OKPH with code OKPH for $25 off an annual subscription. 🏒Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media: Facebook Group X Instagram LinkedIn YouTube