

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 10, 2023 • 4min
The Ride To The Rink - The Power of Positivity and Team Support For Goalies
What if a simple tap on the pads and a few words of encouragement could make all the difference to a goalie's game? It's not all about what has happened on the ice, it's what is going to happen next. Join us as we chat with the Goalie Doctors, Matt Tendler and Mitch Harris, who share invaluable advice on how to keep your goalie in the game. They’re not just discussing techniques and strategies but highlighting the importance of team support and positive reinforcement in boosting a goalie's performance.Drawing from their own experiences, Tendler and Harris delve into how to handle the pressure and bounce back after a bad goal. From using personal mantras to reset the brain, to the role supportive teammates play, they offer insights on maintaining composure during tough times. Additionally, they emphasize the fact that a goalie's performance can significantly be enhanced by positivity and encouragement, both from oneself and from teammates. --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

Aug 5, 2023 • 33min
Balancing Sports & Entrepreneurship with Max Rutkowski
Imagine being the Captain of multiple teams, being a senior in high school, owning and operating two companies, all while trying to earn the gaze of colleges and scouts. Our guest today is doing just that.Max Rutkowski is an extraordinary high school senior juggling the responsibilities of being a hockey team captain (on TWO teams) while also running his own businesses. Max's story is a true testament to perseverance and determination. Through his experiences on the ice, he has honed a unique business acumen, mastering essential skills like adaptability, a growth mindset, and effective conflict resolution. These invaluable qualities have become the foundation of his success, both in sports and entrepreneurship.Join us as we explore the compelling connection between Max's passion for hockey and his entrepreneurial spirit. Managing E&M Longcare and Powerwashing, alongside his clothing and shoe company, Mindset, he showcases the power of balancing ambition with hard work.Beyond the world of sports and business, Max's journey teaches us the profound impact of effective communication and teamwork. We gain insight into how clear communication plays a pivotal role in navigating challenges and building strong, collaborative relationships.As Max enters his senior year, we catch a glimpse of the exciting future that lies ahead for this exceptional young leader. His inspiring advice for aspiring entrepreneurs underscores the importance of resilience and embracing calculated risks on the path to success.More than just a podcast, this episode is an authentic exploration of passion, entrepreneurship, and community impact. Max's story will leave you motivated and equipped with valuable insights to apply in your own life, regardless of your pursuits. Get ready for an enlightening and uplifting experience that celebrates the power of determination and the pursuit of one's dreams.--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

Aug 3, 2023 • 8min
The Ride To The Rink - Success Leaves Clues
"Success leaves clues," but are you noticing them? This week, Mike & Lee take a look at the importance of human interaction, emotional awareness, and the power of putting your phone down. We're tackling the concept of seeking out connections with other players and coaches - not just for the growth of the team, but for individual personal development as well. In the latter part of our episode, we dig deeper into making conscious choices to interact with peers, even those you might only meet briefly at a camp. We stress on the potential of these interactions to shape your future, both on and off the ice. We also navigate the importance of inclusivity in hockey, and the role of leadership in fostering a sense of belonging for everyone. --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

Jul 29, 2023 • 44min
Redefining Success in Youth Hockey: Why The Score Isn't The Most Important Thing
Discover a fresh perspective on youth hockey success in this episode. We delve into an unconventional approach that prioritizes personal growth over the final score. By shifting the focus away from just the outcome of winning, we explore how a mindset of discovering multiple wins can benefit young hockey players, reducing anxiety and enhancing performance.Drawing inspiration from legendary athletes like Michael Jordan and Wayne Gretzky, we explore the power of being in the moment and how it positively influenced their game. Instead of obsessing over winning, we encourage young hockey players to be mentally present and focused on their individual progress.Throughout the podcast, we discuss practical strategies to cultivate this mindset, emphasizing the importance of positive reinforcement, teamwork, and resilience in youth hockey. We explore constructive feedback techniques like the sandwich method and creating opportunities for rewards. Additionally, we address how to help young players handle disappointment and learn from setbacks.Ultimately, we believe that by instilling these values, we can empower our kids to excel not only in hockey but also in life. Join us in this meaningful conversation as we redefine success in youth hockey, giving our young athletes the tools they need to face challenges, learn from mistakes, and embrace a tenacious spirit.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

Jul 27, 2023 • 3min
The Ride To The Rink - How Do You Get Pumped Up?
Christie and her daughter Sophia check in from their car this week to chat about how you get pumped up before a game!! Leave us a comment on social media with your pre-game pump up routine and/or your favorite song to listen to before you take 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

Jul 22, 2023 • 1h 3min
Championing Women in the Game of Ice Hockey with Michelle Billingsley
Ever wondered how one woman could change the game of ice hockey? Let me introduce you to our guest, Michelle Billingsley, a true pioneer in women's ice hockey. In our conversation, Michelle narrates her groundbreaking experience of being the first girl to join a boys-only league, an event that ignited her lifelong commitment to promoting and advancing opportunities for girls and women in this sport. From coaching at the NCAA level to co-founding Women's Hockey United, Michelle has continually broken through the ice ceiling and championed the recognition and inclusion of women in ice hockey.This episode doesn't just stop at Michelle's inspiring story. It's a deep exploration into the progress women's ice hockey has made over the last four decades - and how Michelle has been pivotal in that journey. We debunk the myth that there's no money in women's sports, and put the spotlight on the competitive spirit and skill level in women's hockey. Through citing examples like Jocelyn Lamarau-Davidson, and several other professional women’s players, Michelle makes a compelling case for the need to invest in women's ice hockey.As we lace up our skates and hit the ice, we take you through the critical issues surrounding girls' participation in sports, and specifically in ice hockey. Michelle shares her insights on the importance of mentorship and coaching at all levels, and the need for increased investment in the sport. We tackle the role of the NHL in promoting girls' hockey and emphasize the significance of creating a lifelong fan experience. If you're keen on the development and growth of women's sports, this episode promises to offer you an in-depth look at the challenges, triumphs, and the road ahead. Join us as we champion the cause of women in ice hockey, one puck at a time.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

Jul 19, 2023 • 6min
The Ride To The Rink - The 3 Things You Should Say To Your Parents Before You Skate
This week's 5 minute long episode promises to be a game-changer for young skaters and goalies as Lee addresses the importance of expressing gratitude and appreciation to parents or guardians. We're flipping the script on our previous episode that advised parents on the key messages to share with their kids before a game. Now, it's the kids' turn to learn what they can say in return to acknowledge and appreciate their parents' support.We dissect three powerful phrases - 'Thank you for supporting me,' 'I love playing hockey,' and 'I love you', reflecting on the positive impact they can have on parents. We delve into the sacrifices parents make and encourage the young ones to recognize this through simple acknowledgments. So, strap in for this heartfelt ride to the rink, which wraps up with a reminder to relish the journey and the game we all love. And remember, the right words can make the ride to the rink even more enjoyable.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

Jul 15, 2023 • 42min
3 Things Your Kids Should Say To You Before They Take The Ice
One of our most popular episodes was titled “3 things to say to your kids before they take the ice.”Today we are reversing it. Here’s “3 things your kids should say to you before they take the ice.” Grab your kids, grab some Kool-Aid, and enjoy this one. P.S. Kids - we are giving you the secrets to post game slurpees and treats after every game. Listen up!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

Jul 13, 2023 • 7min
The Ride To The Rink: How To Stay Active In The Off Season
"It’s not about doing 100% all the time as much as not doing 0% weeks.”Mike and Lee dive into how to stay active throughout the off-season in any scenario in this week's ride to the rink. Share this with a player or teammate that would benefit from it!!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

Jul 8, 2023 • 1h 18min
Emotional Endurance With Dr. Alicia Naser
Ever wonder how NHL players workout their minds?Our guest this week, Dr. Alicia Naser, is an expert behavioral coach for pro athletes who works with NHL, junior and collegiate athletes and coaches, amongst others, to build mindset skills, emotional agility and other mental skills to help athletes succeed. There a lot of gold in this episode. It’s a great one to listen to with kids. 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