

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

Nov 18, 2023 • 54min
Nurturing Passion, Not Pressure With Desiree Hall
Imagine nurturing the passion for hockey in your children without pressuring them to love the game. Sounds tough, right? Add in raising 5 kids who are all active in sports, while also being a team manager for multiple teams, and you have today's guest. Desiree Hall and her husband have found the perfect balance to maintaining their busy schedules while placing their focus on raising happy and healthy children rather than star athletes. This episode explores how they inspire their kids to have fun on the ice, do their best, and carry this mentality beyond hockey too. Being passionate and well-grounded parents, Desiree and her husband's approach to sports and parenting is indeed noteworthy.We explore communication's impact on managing teams and look at how Desiree uses tools like TeamSnap to keep everyone on the same page and overcome the challenges of professionalizing youth sports. Consistent communication and meeting kids where they are at, both professionally and in hockey, can empower them and lead to their personal growth. Tune in for an insightful episode with Desiree Hall, as she shares her unique perspective on parenting, team management, and the thrilling world of youth hockey.Click To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!🚨 The Puckaround™ Pro Training Puck is being called the best off-ice puck ever — same weight, size, and feel as the real thing. Perfect for training in the driveway or on the outdoor rink.🎁 Use code OKPH at hockeywraparound.com for a special discount on a 2-pack — just for our listeners.Let’s puck-around and find out. 🏒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

Nov 16, 2023 • 3min
The Ride To The Rink - Unraveling the Unseen Mental Battles in Hockey with Justin Goldman Of The Goalie Guild
Justin Goldman of the Goalie Guild discusses with us about the mental struggles that players grapple with this week on The Ride To The Rink. He shares valuable insights into the importance of acknowledging and managing emotions like disappointment, fear, and anxiety – emotions that every player, amateur or pro, has felt at some point.No one should feel alone in their emotional journey, and Justin stresses the critical importance of reaching out, sharing, and discussing these feelings. He believes that such dialogues can help identify, label, and thereby manage the emotions that can impact a player's performance on and off the ice.Click To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!🚨 The Puckaround™ Pro Training Puck is being called the best off-ice puck ever — same weight, size, and feel as the real thing. Perfect for training in the driveway or on the outdoor rink.🎁 Use code OKPH at hockeywraparound.com for a special discount on a 2-pack — just for our listeners.Let’s puck-around and find out. 🏒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

Nov 11, 2023 • 51min
A Youth Hockey Parent's Guide to Establishing Accountability with Equipment and Routines
Ever felt overwhelmed by the chaos of your child's hockey experience? Do you wonder if there's a better way to manage all those bits of equipment, schedules, and laundry? We've got you covered. In this episode, we delve deep into establishing routines and fostering accountability in young hockey players. We discuss everything from packing gear to choosing the right jersey color, aiming to take some pressure off parents and empower kids.We also share our insights on the best practices for teaching your child how to manage their own gear, highlighting the importance of checklists and clear instructions. In addition, we discuss the right age to start instilling these responsibilities, and how this can benefit children at all levels of play. Get ready to discover the secrets to effective hockey equipment management and the life lessons it can impart, such as time management and accountability.Finally, we explore the significance of a solid game and practice routine, and the potential pitfalls of not having them in place. Whether you're a hockey mom or dad, coach, or player, you'll find invaluable advice in this episode. From encouraging your child to take charge of their gear to teaching them how to balance their time, we provide strategies to help them thrive on and off the ice. Click To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!🚨 The Puckaround™ Pro Training Puck is being called the best off-ice puck ever — same weight, size, and feel as the real thing. Perfect for training in the driveway or on the outdoor rink.🎁 Use code OKPH at hockeywraparound.com for a special discount on a 2-pack — just for our listeners.Let’s puck-around and find out. 🏒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

Nov 9, 2023 • 4min
The Ride To The Rink - Two Questions Hockey Players Should Constantly Ask Themselves
Step onto the ice with a winning mindset as we dive into the latest episode of 'Our Kids Play Hockey: The Ride To The Rink'. Hosted by Lee Elias, this podcast is a treasure trove for hockey parents, coaches, and young athletes looking to elevate their mental game and overall performance.In this must-listen episode, Lee introduces two vital questions that have the power to change the game for hockey players at every level: "What do I control in this situation?" and "Am I being present right now?" By focusing on these queries, players can enhance their focus, effort, and mental fortitude, both during high-pressure game situations and in daily life.Discover the secrets to staying grounded in the present moment and directing your energy towards the aspects of your hockey career that you can control. Lee's expertise in performance psychology offers listeners an accessible guide to mental training that promises to improve concentration, resilience, and in-game decision-making.This episode is perfect for those searching for effective sports psychology techniques, mental toughness training for young athletes, or advice on how to stay present and productive under pressure.Whether you're gearing up for a weekend tournament or navigating the ups and downs of youth hockey, 'Our Kids Play Hockey: The Ride To The Rink' provides the strategies you need to succeed. Join us for an engaging and educational journey that transcends the rink – because these lessons aren't just about hockey, they're about life.Tune in now and empower yourself to make the next shift your best one yet. Don't forget to subscribe for more insights and tips that will help young hockey players skate towards excellence with every episode.Click To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!🚨 The Puckaround™ Pro Training Puck is being called the best off-ice puck ever — same weight, size, and feel as the real thing. Perfect for training in the driveway or on the outdoor rink.🎁 Use code OKPH at hockeywraparound.com for a special discount on a 2-pack — just for our listeners.Let’s puck-around and find out. 🏒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

Nov 4, 2023 • 1h 20min
Unraveling Mental Toughness in Hockey and Goaltending with Justin Goldman of The Goalie Guild
What if you could peek behind the mask of a professional hockey goalie and dive into the mental challenges and toughness required to play the sport and position? Justin Goldman’s experiences range from playing as an e-bug for the Colorado Avalanche to creating an inspiring online community for goalies - the Goalie Guild. Serving more than just a peek into his fascinating journey, Justin shares his wisdom and knowledge through establishing the Goalie Guild's unique digital platform. We uncover how he leveraged online tools to make the site transparent and user-friendly. We also dive into the concept of autonomous support coaching, an approach that encourages athletes to problem solve, fostering resilience and independence. But the conversation doesn’t stop at the rink as we shift gears to examine the impact of technology on youth and parenting, emphasizing the importance of children's independence and presence. We also shed light on the crucial issue of mental health in sports, discussing 'Lift the Mask,' a program Justin created to offer support to goaltenders struggling with mental health. This episode is a must-listen for not just hockey enthusiasts, but anyone interested in sports psychology and the power of community. Tune in for an enriching and insightful conversation with Justin Goldman.Click To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!🚨 The Puckaround™ Pro Training Puck is being called the best off-ice puck ever — same weight, size, and feel as the real thing. Perfect for training in the driveway or on the outdoor rink.🎁 Use code OKPH at hockeywraparound.com for a special discount on a 2-pack — just for our listeners.Let’s puck-around and find out. 🏒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

Nov 2, 2023 • 4min
The Ride To The Rink - Shoot With A Purpose
Ever wondered why elite NHL players almost never miss the net during warm-ups? Its because elite level players players always shoot with a purpose. They know exactly where they want to put the puck each and every time they shoot. In this week's episode of the Ride To The Rink, we highlight the importance of adopting a calculated approach to how you shoot.Lee mentions that shooting aimlessly is a waste of a shot and shares practical advice on shot selection, placement, and more. We also discuss why this purposeful mindset should not be limited to shooting but should be extended to other aspects of hockey, such as passing and defensive play. Click To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!🚨 The Puckaround™ Pro Training Puck is being called the best off-ice puck ever — same weight, size, and feel as the real thing. Perfect for training in the driveway or on the outdoor rink.🎁 Use code OKPH at hockeywraparound.com for a special discount on a 2-pack — just for our listeners.Let’s puck-around and find out. 🏒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 28, 2023 • 35min
Insights From A Lifetime As The Voice Of The Philadelphia Flyers With Lou Nolan
Lou Nolan, who's been the voice of the Flyers since 1967, joins the show to share his insights from the game that he has watched evolve firsthand. We dive into how he has been instrumental in crafting moments that have left fans on the edge of their seats, and the key factors that play a crucial role in building a successful franchise.We dive deep into the nuances of coaching, calling out the Kevin Costner and 'chameleon' coaches, and their adaptability in the ever-evolving landscape of hockey. We also appreciate the power of fans, and especially the electrifying atmosphere that can be created by fanbases as faithful as Philadelphia's. Additionally, we take a nostalgic trip down the memory lane, reminiscing about the legacy of the Flyers and Lou's enduring connection with the fans.Finally, we discuss the many ways to be involved in the beautiful game of hockey, beyond just playing it. Lou shares his journey from being a Southwest Philly kid to becoming a revered public address announcer, illustrating that there's more than one way to leave a mark in the sport. Whether you're a fan of the Flyers or not, this episode is a treasure trove of insights from the game of hockey!Click To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!🚨 The Puckaround™ Pro Training Puck is being called the best off-ice puck ever — same weight, size, and feel as the real thing. Perfect for training in the driveway or on the outdoor rink.🎁 Use code OKPH at hockeywraparound.com for a special discount on a 2-pack — just for our listeners.Let’s puck-around and find out. 🏒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 26, 2023 • 8min
The Ride To The Rink - Never Let Anyone Tell You Your Dreams Aren't Possible
Dreams: we all have them, and there always seems to be someone trying to shut them down on us. If you're willing to commit, work hard, and persist, nobody, absolutely no one, has the right to tell you that you can't make it. On this week's episode, we talk about the significance of self-belief, resilience, and undying grit in the journey of chasing your dreams, be it in hockey or any part of life.Throughout this episode, we'll share inspiring stories of those who were told they couldn't make it but defied all odds, like the legendary Michael Jordan. We delve into how to navigate the inevitable hurdles and rejections that come your way with unwavering faith in your capabilities. We'll discuss why the internal dialogue you have with yourself plays a monumental role in your journey to success, and how you should push back against any negative voices that tell you otherwise. We also leave you with a task - write down 5-10 big, ambitious goals you want to accomplish in the next decade and send them in. We want to know what your goals are so we can be some of your biggest supporters!Click To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!🚨 The Puckaround™ Pro Training Puck is being called the best off-ice puck ever — same weight, size, and feel as the real thing. Perfect for training in the driveway or on the outdoor rink.🎁 Use code OKPH at hockeywraparound.com for a special discount on a 2-pack — just for our listeners.Let’s puck-around and find out. 🏒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 21, 2023 • 1h 2min
The Evolution of a Crazy Hockey Parent
Ever cringed over the sight of a rabid hockey parent, screaming at the sidelines and pushing their child beyond reasonable limits? We sure have, and this episode is all about that - navigating the perilous landscape of youth hockey parenting. We start the discussion by reminiscing about the evolution of 'crazy hockey parents,' pondering on the right time for a child to take the game seriously. As the conversation deepens, we tackle the balancing act of supporting your child's aspirations while keeping the parent-child relationship healthy. From the daunting task of finding the right coaches and camps to supporting your child's skill development, it all plays a role. Crucial to this conversation is the understanding that your support as a parent shouldn't hinge on your child's success in the game. But what about the dark side of hockey parenting? We dissect the negative aftermath of pressuring children into taking the game seriously too soon, the myth of building genetics, and the societal pressure to boast about “proud parent” moments on social media. We also address the elitism creeping into youth sports, shrinking the landscape for local teams and pick-up games. This episode is not just about the dangers, though. It's about finding a way through the 'crazy hockey environment,' nurturing a love for the game in a fun, supportive atmosphere, and giving kids the space to find their own path in hockey. Click To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!🚨 The Puckaround™ Pro Training Puck is being called the best off-ice puck ever — same weight, size, and feel as the real thing. Perfect for training in the driveway or on the outdoor rink.🎁 Use code OKPH at hockeywraparound.com for a special discount on a 2-pack — just for our listeners.Let’s puck-around and find out. 🏒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 19, 2023 • 3min
The Ride To The Rink - What Does NHL Goaltender Carter Hart Wish He Knew As A Youth Hockey Player?
What is something that Carter Hart knows now that he wishes he knew as a youth hockey player? We were able to ask him this to share with you for this week’s episode of The Ride To The Rink. Take a listen before your next practice or game and don’t forget to keep the game fun!Click To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!🚨 The Puckaround™ Pro Training Puck is being called the best off-ice puck ever — same weight, size, and feel as the real thing. Perfect for training in the driveway or on the outdoor rink.🎁 Use code OKPH at hockeywraparound.com for a special discount on a 2-pack — just for our listeners.Let’s puck-around and find out. 🏒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