

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

Aug 7, 2025 • 13min
Our Top-5 episodes for Youth Hockey Coaches & What They Teach About Leadership & Team Culture
🏒 What's the secret sauce behind 400 episodes of hockey coaching wisdom?As part of our celebration for 400 episodes of Our Kids Play Hockey, we're serving up a power play of insights from our top five coaching conversations! Join host Lee MJ Elias as he skates through game-changing advice that'll transform your coaching strategy—both on and off the ice.🔥 Highlights Include: 5 foundational steps to kickstart your youth hockey season 🏁The hidden power of passing in developing hockey IQ 🧠Why defensemen are the unsung heroes of creative offense 🛡️NHL legend Mike Keenan's blueprint for building championship teams 🏆Team-building exercises that create unexpected joy across all age levels 😄Whether you're coaching mites or managing pros, this episode is packed with actionable tactics, inspiring stories, and locker room lessons that'll elevate your coaching game.🎧 Don't miss this hat trick of hockey wisdom—tune in now!Read the full breakdown of our Top 5 Coaching Episodes with key takeaways and tips!📚 Recommended Reading: "Iron Mike: My Life Behind the Bench" by Mike Keenan💬 Got coaching questions? Drop us a line at team@kidsplayhockey.com#HockeyCoaching #YouthHockey #TeamBuilding #CoachingTips #KidsPlayHockey #400EpisodesClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena!Train your hockey brain off the ice with the official VR training tool of the NHL, USA Hockey, and OMHA. For players and goalies of all levels, Sense Arena builds IQ, vision, and decision-making with hundreds of drills on Meta Quest.🎯 Start training now at SenseArena.com/OKPHHave 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

Aug 2, 2025 • 12min
Our Top-5 Episodes for Youth Hockey Players & What They Say About Mindset, Motivation and Growth
🏒 Ready to unlock the secrets of hockey success from NCAA to the pros?As part of our celebration for 400 episodes of Our Kids Play Hockey, host Lee MJ Elias serves up a power play of wisdom from five favorite player-focused episodes. From conquering pre-game jitters to impressing coaches, this highlight reel is packed with game-changing advice for young athletes and their biggest fans—the parents!🔥 Highlights Include:Turn anxiety into your secret weapon on the ice 🧠11 self-reflection questions to kickstart your best season yet 📝Hayley Scamurra's journey from NCAA star to Team USA Olympian 🥇Dr. Cassidy Preston's mental hygiene tips for peak performance 💪3 surefire ways to catch your coach's eye and level up your game 🚀Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned player, this episode is your playbook for success both on and off the ice. Get ready to transform your mindset, sharpen your skills, and take your game to the next level!🎧 Don't miss this game-changing episode—tune in now and dominate your next shift!💬 Got questions? Hit us up at team@ourkidsplayhockey.com and let's keep the conversation going!📖 Want a written version you can reference anytime?Check out our companion blog:Our Top-5 Episodes for Youth Hockey Players & What They Say About Mindset, Motivation and Growth#YouthHockey #MentalPrep #HockeySuccess #OurKidsPlayHockey #PlayerDevelopment #CoachingTipsClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena!Train your hockey brain off the ice with the official VR training tool of the NHL, USA Hockey, and OMHA. For players and goalies of all levels, Sense Arena builds IQ, vision, and decision-making with hundreds of drills on Meta Quest.🎯 Start training now at SenseArena.com/OKPHHave 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

Jul 31, 2025 • 14min
Our Top-5 NHL Guest Episodes & What They’ve Taught Us About Youth Hockey Development
🏒 What can 400 episodes of hockey wisdom teach us about life, leadership, and the game we love?In this milestone 400th episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, host Lee MJ Elias takes us on an exhilarating journey through the best moments and insights from NHL legends. From Hall of Famers to coaches and current GMs, this episode is a treasure trove of hockey knowledge that goes far beyond the rink.🔥 Highlights Include:Bryan Trottier's powerful metaphor for team unity in a diverse hockey world "Iron Mike" Keenan's compassionate approach to coaching and leadershipChris "Bundy" Therien's refreshing take on why kids should really play hockey Steve Valiquette's game-changing perspective on mental toughness for goalies 🧠Daniel Briere's unique approach to being a hockey parent after life in the NHL 👨👦Whether you're a coach, player, parent, or just a passionate fan, this episode is packed with actionable advice, heartwarming stories, and life lessons that will change how you see the game.🎧 Don't miss this incredible compilation of hockey wisdom from some of the sport's most accomplished and insightful minds!👉 For a quick recap of the top NHL lessons, check out the blog: Top 5 NHL Guests & What They Taught Us About Youth Development.💬 Got questions or thoughts? Share them with us at team@ourkidsplayhockey.com.#HockeyWisdom #400Episodes #NHLLegends #YouthHockey #OurKidsPlayHockey #LeadershipLessonsClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena!Train your hockey brain off the ice with the official VR training tool of the NHL, USA Hockey, and OMHA. For players and goalies of all levels, Sense Arena builds IQ, vision, and decision-making with hundreds of drills on Meta Quest.🎯 Start training now at SenseArena.com/OKPHHave 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

Jul 26, 2025 • 41min
Do Early Hockey Stars Stay Ahead?
🏒 Is your young hockey star destined for greatness, or are they just an early bloomer?In this eye-opening episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, hosts Lee MJ Elias, Christie Casciano Burns, and Mike Bonelli tackle the complex world of youth hockey development. From extra ice time advantages to the emergence of late bloomers, they explore the factors that shape a player's journey from novice to potential pro.🔥 Highlights Include:The surprising truth about early physical advantages in youth hockey 💪Why dominating the ice might not always be the best path to success 🥅How to break bad habits that could derail a promising career The unexpected rise of "grinders" and late bloomers in teen years 🌟Real-life stories of hockey journeys starting at age 12 🏆Whether you're a parent, coach, or young player, this episode is packed with invaluable insights, personal anecdotes, and expert advice that will change how you view youth hockey development.🎧 Tune in now and discover why the path to hockey greatness isn't always a straight line!📖 Want a written version you can reference anytime?Check out our companion blog: Do Early Hockey Stars Stay Ahead? What Every Parent Should Know.📚 Recommended Reading: "When Hockey Stops" - A children's book about life beyond the rink💬 Got questions? Share your thoughts with us at team@ourkidsplayhockey.comYouthHockey #PlayerDevelopment #HockeyParenting #LateBloomers #OurKidsPlayHockey #HockeyLifeClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena!Train your hockey brain off the ice with the official VR training tool of the NHL, USA Hockey, and OMHA. For players and goalies of all levels, Sense Arena builds IQ, vision, and decision-making with hundreds of drills on Meta Quest.🎯 Start training now at SenseArena.com/OKPHHave 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

Jul 24, 2025 • 12min
The Ride to The Rink - Late Bloomers and Early Stars - Different Paths to Hockey Success
🏒 Are you a young hockey star or struggling to find your place on the ice? This episode of "Ride to the Rink" is your game-changer!Lee MJ Elias and Mike Bonelli serve up a power play of wisdom for players at every level. From goal-scoring phenoms to those still finding their stride, there's something here for everyone. But here's the kicker — talent alone won't cut it!Ready to level up your game? Here's what's on deck: The secret sauce that turns good players into legends 🌟Why your locker room vibe matters as much as your slapshot 🤜🤛The truth about talent (spoiler: it's not enough!) 💪How to contribute when the puck's not finding the net 🥅The unexpected path to becoming a playmaker 🏆Remember, "Dreams without action are just dreams." So lace up those skates and get ready to turn your hockey dreams into reality!Want more? Check out our blog, “Early vs. Late Bloomers: Why Your Hockey Journey Is Right on Time,” for key takeaways and advice for every young player.Got questions? Shoot them our way at team@ourkidsplayhockey.com. Let's hit the ice!#RideToTheRink #YouthHockey #HockeyDevelopment #WorkEthicClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena!Train your hockey brain off the ice with the official VR training tool of the NHL, USA Hockey, and OMHA. For players and goalies of all levels, Sense Arena builds IQ, vision, and decision-making with hundreds of drills on Meta Quest.🎯 Start training now at SenseArena.com/OKPHHave 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

Jul 19, 2025 • 34min
Behind A Savage Shift: The NHL Lessons Bobby Robins Is Sending to Hockey Parents
🏒 What if you could get NHL-level advice delivered straight to your inbox?In this game-changing episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, host Lee MJ Elias teams up with former NHL player Bobby Robins to unveil a revolutionary email newsletter series designed to transform your hockey journey. From the locker room to the living room, this dynamic duo shares insights that will elevate your game, both on and off the ice.➡️ Subscribe now at hockeywraparound.com🔥 Highlights Include:The inside scoop on three weekly emails packed with hockey wisdom Bobby's incredible journey from junior hockey to the NHL 🏆Why mindset is the secret weapon every player needs 🧠How to ignite your child's passion for the game without pushing too hard 🔥The power of belief in achieving seemingly impossible goals 💪Whether you're a player chasing NHL dreams, a parent navigating the youth hockey world, or a coach looking to inspire your team, this episode is a hat trick of motivation, practical advice, and heartfelt stories.🎧 Don't miss this power play of an episode—tune in now and level up your hockey game!📬 Want more from Bobby Robins? Subscribe to A Savage Shift newsletter for weekly emails packed with motivation, mindset, and NHL-tested wisdom—delivered straight to your inbox. ➡️ Sign up now at hockeywraparound.com📚 Check out Bobby's book: Sex, Drugs, Pucks and Souls#HockeyFamily #NHLDreams #YouthHockey #HockeyLife #MindsetMatters #OurKidsPlayHockeyClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena!Train your hockey brain off the ice with the official VR training tool of the NHL, USA Hockey, and OMHA. For players and goalies of all levels, Sense Arena builds IQ, vision, and decision-making with hundreds of drills on Meta Quest.🎯 Start training now at SenseArena.com/OKPHHave 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

Jul 17, 2025 • 8min
The Ride to The Rink - Comfort Over Cost: Building Confidence with the Right Equipment
🏒 Ready to gear up for hockey season without breaking the bank?"Ride to the Rink" hosts Lee MJ Elias and Mike Bonelli tackle the age-old question: Does expensive equipment make a better player? Spoiler alert: It doesn't! This episode is packed with practical advice for young players and parents navigating the world of hockey gear.From timing your purchases to finding the perfect fit, our hosts share insider tips that'll have you feeling like a pro—without the pro-level price tag. Ever wondered why even NHL stars sometimes stick with their old favorites? We've got the scoop!Key Points:Spring cleaning for your gear closet 🧹The off-season experiment: Try before you buy!Why comfort trumps brand names every timeSidney Crosby's surprising equipment choices 🤯Budget-friendly alternatives that don't sacrifice qualityRemember, it's not the stick that scores the goal—it's you! Tune in for a game-changing perspective on equipment that'll boost your confidence on the ice and keep your wallet happy.Got questions about finding your perfect gear match? Hit us up at team@ourkidsplayhockey.com!Want more gear tips? Check out the full blog for smart off-season equipment advice and parent-friendly insights.#RideToTheRink #HockeyGear #YouthHockey #SmartShopping #PerformanceOverPriceClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena!Train your hockey brain off the ice with the official VR training tool of the NHL, USA Hockey, and OMHA. For players and goalies of all levels, Sense Arena builds IQ, vision, and decision-making with hundreds of drills on Meta Quest.🎯 Start training now at SenseArena.com/OKPHHave 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

Jul 12, 2025 • 44min
A Complete Guide to the 5 Levels of USA Hockey Coaching Education Program (CEP)
🏒 Ever wondered what it takes to become a top-notch youth hockey coach?In this eye-opening episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, hosts Lee MJ Elias and Mike Bonelli take you on an exhilarating journey through the USA Hockey Coaching Education Program (CEP). From rookie coaches to seasoned veterans, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the five levels of coaching certification that are shaping the future of American hockey.🔥 Highlights Include:The secrets behind USA Hockey's world-class coach education system 🏆How Level 1 turns chaos into fun for 8U players and first-time coaches 🎉Level 3's game-changing approach to teaching hockey's four types of play 🧠The cutting-edge video analysis techniques introduced in Level 4 📹Why Level 5's coaching symposium is the ultimate hockey think tank 🤔Whether you're a parent, aspiring coach, or current bench boss, this episode is packed with invaluable insights, practical tips, and inspiring stories that will elevate your understanding of youth hockey development.🎧 Tune in now and discover how USA Hockey is revolutionizing coaching education—one level at a time!📚 Want to learn more? Visit USAHockey.com for additional resources and certification information.👉 Want to go even deeper? Check out our blog, “What Does USA Hockey Teach Its Coaches?” for a full breakdown of each CEP level and how they’re shaping the next generation of great coaches.💬 Got questions? Share your thoughts with us at team@ourkidsplayhockey.com.#YouthHockey #CoachingEducation #USAHockey #HockeyDevelopment #OurKidsPlayHockey #CoachingTipsClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena!Train your hockey brain off the ice with the official VR training tool of the NHL, USA Hockey, and OMHA. For players and goalies of all levels, Sense Arena builds IQ, vision, and decision-making with hundreds of drills on Meta Quest.🎯 Start training now at SenseArena.com/OKPHHave 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

Jul 10, 2025 • 16min
The Ride to The Rink - Mistakes Not To Make This The Summer
☀️ Are you making the most of your summer—or just skating through it?In this empowering episode of The Ride to the Rink, Lee MJ Elias, Christie Casciano, and Mike Bonelli break down the top five summer mistakes that young hockey players and families make—and how to avoid them. From over-scheduling to mental burnout, the crew shares personal stories and practical advice to help every kid reclaim the magic of summer while still growing as a player.🏒 Key Takeaways:Why less hockey can actually reignite your passion for the gameHow off-ice activities build real on-ice skillsThe value of “being a kid” and not obsessing over next seasonRecharging your mindset with rest, play, and perspectiveHow to check in on your mental well-being (and why it matters)🎧 Whether you’re driving to another clinic or just tossing a puck in the driveway, this episode is your summer reset button. Don’t miss it!💬 Got a topic you want us to cover? Text us using the link in the episode description or email us at team@ourkidsplayhockey.com!#RideToTheRink #YouthHockey #SummerTips #HockeyDevelopment #OurKidsPlayHockey #HockeyParenting #MentalWellnessClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena!Train your hockey brain off the ice with the official VR training tool of the NHL, USA Hockey, and OMHA. For players and goalies of all levels, Sense Arena builds IQ, vision, and decision-making with hundreds of drills on Meta Quest.🎯 Start training now at SenseArena.com/OKPHHave 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

Jul 5, 2025 • 48min
The Top 5 Mistakes Hockey Parents Make In The Summer (And How to Avoid Them)
Are you making these 5 summer hockey mistakes with your kids? 🏒☀️In this eye-opening episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, Lee MJ Elias, Christie Casciano, and Mike Bonelli reveal the top five mistakes hockey parents make during the summer—and how to avoid them before they derail your child’s development or love for the game.From packing the schedule with camps to losing sight of what summer is really for, this conversation will shift your mindset and help you make better, more balanced choices during the off-season.🔥 Highlights Include:How too many camps can do more harm than good 🧊Why free play and rest are critical for long-term success ⚽🎨The importance of staying flexible and following your child’s energy 🌞How parents unintentionally add pressure—and how to stop 💬Strategies to prioritize emotional wellness without losing momentum 🧠Whether your kid’s chasing a dream or just chasing pucks, this episode delivers the perspective and practical tools to make this summer their best one yet—on and off the ice.🎧 Tune in now and rethink your approach to summer hockey parenting!💬 Have thoughts or questions? Drop us a line at team@ourkidsplayhockey.com"📖 Want a written version you can reference anytime?Check out our companion blog: Top 5 Summer Mistakes Hockey Parents Make and How to Avoid Them#SummerHockey #YouthDevelopment #HockeyParenting #OurKidsPlayHockey #BalanceMatters #MentalWellness #OffSeasonStrategyClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena!Train your hockey brain off the ice with the official VR training tool of the NHL, USA Hockey, and OMHA. For players and goalies of all levels, Sense Arena builds IQ, vision, and decision-making with hundreds of drills on Meta Quest.🎯 Start training now at SenseArena.com/OKPHHave 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