

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

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!NHL Sense Arena annual memberships are 50% off for the holidays, starting at just $29 a month — plus you can save an extra $25 with code OKPH at checkout.Gift you hockey family the ultimate hockey training experience with NHL Sense Arena ‘26 — available now at hockey.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

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!NHL Sense Arena annual memberships are 50% off for the holidays, starting at just $29 a month — plus you can save an extra $25 with code OKPH at checkout.Gift you hockey family the ultimate hockey training experience with NHL Sense Arena ‘26 — available now at hockey.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

Sep 16, 2025 • 11min
The Ride To The Rink - Embracing Discomfort with Blake Bolden - Lessons from a Multifaceted Hockey Pro.
Ready to unlock the secrets of hockey success? 🏒✨Blake Bolden, a trailblazer in women's hockey, shares her journey from Division 1 college player to NHL scout in this inspiring episode of "Ride to the Rink." Joined by host Lee MJ Elias and co-host Hayley Scamurra, Blake offers game-changing advice for young players looking to level up their mental game and push past their limits.Ever wonder how top athletes overcome self-doubt? Or what it takes to make it to the national team? This episode's got you covered!Key Takeaways:Embrace discomfort — it's where growth happens!Turn negative self-talk into fuel for successThe power of love and gratitude in sportsPractical tips for maintaining a positive mindsetBlake's wisdom isn't just for hockey players — it's a playbook for anyone chasing big dreams. She shares how getting out of her comfort zone led to becoming the second woman to scout in the NHL and the first black woman in professional women's hockey. Talk about breaking barriers! 💪But it's not all smooth skating. Blake opens up about battling "obsessor thoughts" and how focusing on her love for the game helped her push through tough times. And Hayley? She dishes on how staying present and grateful ultimately landed her a spot on Team USA.Want to level up your mental game? Blake and the team share practical tips like morning gratitude practices and reframing negative thoughts. It's like yoga for your mind — on ice! ❄️🧘♀️Whether you're a seasoned player or just lacing up your skates, this episode is packed with inspiration to help you crush your goals — on and off the ice.Ready to transform your game and your mindset? Hit play and let's ride to the rink! 🎧🏒📖 Want a written version you can reference anytime?Check out our companion blog: Out of the Comfort Zone: Blake Bolden's Powerful Message to Young Hockey Players#RideToTheRink #HockeyMindset #BlakeBolden #WomensHockey #MentalToughnessClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!NHL Sense Arena annual memberships are 50% off for the holidays, starting at just $29 a month — plus you can save an extra $25 with code OKPH at checkout.Gift you hockey family the ultimate hockey training experience with NHL Sense Arena ‘26 — available now at hockey.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

Sep 13, 2025 • 1h 4min
Power Skating Expert Christian Grunnah on Breaking Bad Habits Transforming Your Skating Game
🎙️ Is Your Child's Skating Holding Them Back on the Ice? 🏒In this game-changing episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, power skating expert Christian Grunnah joins Lee and Christie to unlock the secrets of elite skating skills. From when to start training to debunking myths about NHL superstars, Christian shares invaluable insights that will transform how you approach your child's skating development.🔥 Highlights Include:• The true meaning of power skating and why it's crucial for success 🏆• When to start power skating training (hint: it's not just about age!) 👦👧• How to teach skating skills across different age groups 📊• The real skating techniques behind McDavid and MacKinnon's success 🏅• Red flags to watch for in power skating clinics 🚩Whether you're a coach, parent, or player, this episode is packed with actionable advice that will elevate your understanding of skating development and help you make informed decisions about training.🎧 Tune in now and don't miss this incredible conversation with one of hockey's most insightful skating experts!📱 Follow Christian on Instagram: @powerskating💬 Got questions? Share your thoughts with us at team@ourkidsplayhockey.com.📖 Want a written version you can reference anytime?Check out our companion blog: Power Skating Expert Christian Grunnah on Breaking Bad Habits Transforming Your Skating Game#PowerSkating #YouthHockey #SkatingDevelopment #HockeyParents #OurKidsPlayHockeyClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!NHL Sense Arena annual memberships are 50% off for the holidays, starting at just $29 a month — plus you can save an extra $25 with code OKPH at checkout.Gift you hockey family the ultimate hockey training experience with NHL Sense Arena ‘26 — available now at hockey.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

Sep 11, 2025 • 9min
The Ride To The Rink: Mastering the Hockey-Life Balance as a Young Player
Ready to level up your hockey game—and your life? 🏒💪"Ride to the Rink" drops some serious wisdom bombs for young players looking to crush it on and off the ice. Hosts Lee MJ Elias and Mike Bonelli serve up a power play of tips on creating killer routines and managing time like a pro.Want to impress your parents and coaches? It's all about taking charge of your schedule and prep. No more last-minute scrambles or forgotten gear! These hockey gurus break down exactly how to plan your attack, from packing your bag to nailing that game-day routine.Key Points:Create routines that work for hockey, school, and lifePlan ahead—winging it is a recipe for disasterAvoid the cramming trap (spoiler: it doesn't work long-term)Master your game day prep like a bossTake accountability and watch your parents' jaws dropRemember, future all-stars: "Your ability to create routine, to create a schedule is something that you really need to do to not just do well in hockey, but your life in general." - Lee MJ EliasReady to take your game to the next level? Tune in and let's make it happen! 🚀Got questions? Hit us up at team@ourkidsplayhockey.com.📖 Want a written version you can reference anytime?Check out our companion blog: Balancing School and Hockey: A Game Plan for Young Athletes#RideToTheRink #HockeyLife #TimeManagement #YouthHockey #GameDayPrepClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!NHL Sense Arena annual memberships are 50% off for the holidays, starting at just $29 a month — plus you can save an extra $25 with code OKPH at checkout.Gift you hockey family the ultimate hockey training experience with NHL Sense Arena ‘26 — available now at hockey.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

Sep 9, 2025 • 53min
Breaking Barriers, Building Belonging: Blake Bolden's Mission to Grow the Game of Hockey
🏒 What does it take to break barriers and grow the game of hockey for everyone?In this inspiring episode of Our Girls Play Hockey, trailblazer Blake Bolden joins Lee and Hayley to share her incredible journey from player to scout to ambassador. From her early days with the Cleveland Lumberjacks to her groundbreaking role with the LA Kings, Blake offers a unique perspective on making hockey more accessible, diverse, and inclusive for all.🔥 Highlights Include:Blake's path from youth hockey to becoming an NHL scout 🏆Innovative initiatives to bring hockey to underrepresented communities The crucial role of affordable equipment in growing the sport 🏒Overcoming discrimination and creating inclusive environments 💪The exciting future of women's hockey and youth development 🚀Why multi-sport participation is key for young athletes 🏅Whether you're a player, parent, or coach, this episode is packed with actionable advice, heartfelt stories, and inspiring insights that extend far beyond the rink.🎧 Tune in now and don't miss this game-changing conversation with one of hockey's most influential voices!💬 Got questions? Share your thoughts with us at team@ourgirlsplayhockey.com.📖 Want a written version you can reference anytime?Check out our companion blog: Breaking Barriers, Building Belonging: Blake Bolden's Mission to Grow the Game of Hockey#HockeyForAll #WomensHockey #BlakeBolden #GrowTheGame #OurGirlsPlayHockey #DiversityClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!NHL Sense Arena annual memberships are 50% off for the holidays, starting at just $29 a month — plus you can save an extra $25 with code OKPH at checkout.Gift you hockey family the ultimate hockey training experience with NHL Sense Arena ‘26 — available now at hockey.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

Sep 6, 2025 • 52min
Balancing Hockey And Being A Student Athlete
Can your child be a star on the ice and in the classroom? 🏒📚In this game-changing episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, hosts Lee MJ Elias and Mike Bonelli tackle the ultimate challenge faced by young hockey players and their parents: balancing academic excellence with athletic ambition. From managing packed schedules to acing exams while dominating on the ice, this episode is your playbook for success both in school and on the rink.🔥 Highlights Include:The secret to creating a winning family schedule that works for everyone 📅How to turn potential conflicts with teachers into opportunities for growth 🤝Why "hockey is your reward for doing well in school" - and how to make it stick 🏆Strategies to prevent burnout and keep your young athlete motivated 🔋The shocking truth about grades and college hockey recruitment 🎓Whether you're a parent juggling practices and homework, or a young player dreaming of the big leagues, this episode is packed with game-changing advice and real-life strategies to help you excel in both arenas.🎧 Don't miss this power play of knowledge - tune in now and transform your approach to balancing school and hockey!📖 Recommended Reading: "When Hockey Stops" - a must-read children's book for young players💬 Got questions? Hit us up at team@ourkidsplayhockey.com - we're here to help you score big in life and on the ice!📖 Want a written version you can reference anytime?Check out our companion blog: Mastering the Student-Athlete Life: Balancing School and Hockey#HockeyLife #StudentAthlete #YouthHockey #AcademicSuccess #OurKidsPlayHockey #ParentingWinsClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!NHL Sense Arena annual memberships are 50% off for the holidays, starting at just $29 a month — plus you can save an extra $25 with code OKPH at checkout.Gift you hockey family the ultimate hockey training experience with NHL Sense Arena ‘26 — available now at hockey.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

Sep 4, 2025 • 10min
The Ride to The Rink: Bringing Your B Game Every Night with Bobby Robins
Ready to unlock the secret to consistent performance in hockey? 🏒💪Former pro player Bobby Robins shares game-changing advice from NHL coach Bruce Cassidy on "Ride to the Rink" with host Lee MJ Elias. Whether you're a young player chasing your dreams or a parent supporting from the sidelines, this episode is packed with wisdom to elevate your game—on and off the ice.Key Takeaways:The power of bringing your "B game" every nightWhy curiosity trumps judgment in athlete developmentHow to chase your dreams without regretsThe long-term value of your hockey journeyBobby's golden rule? "You don't have to bring your A game every single night, but you better bring your B game." It's all about consistency, folks! 🎯Curious about how to apply this mindset? Lee encourages young players to keep asking questions and stay curious—it's your superpower on the ice!And parents, listen up! Your role in nurturing curiosity could be the game-changer your young athlete needs.Ready to lace up and bring your B game? This episode is your playbook for success. Remember, as Lee says, "We believe in you. You should, too." 🙌#RideToTheRink #HockeyAdvice #ConsistentPerformance #ChaseYourDreams #YouthHockeyClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!NHL Sense Arena annual memberships are 50% off for the holidays, starting at just $29 a month — plus you can save an extra $25 with code OKPH at checkout.Gift you hockey family the ultimate hockey training experience with NHL Sense Arena ‘26 — available now at hockey.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

Sep 2, 2025 • 12min
The Ride To The Rink - Breaking Down PWHLer and Olympian, Hayley Scamurra's Youth Hockey Journey
Are you ready to unlock the secrets of a pro hockey player's journey? 🏒✨Hayley Scamurra, Olympian and PWHL star, takes us on a wild ride through her youth hockey days in this eye-opening episode of "The Ride to the Rink." From midnight practices to fast food pit stops, Hayley's story is a rollercoaster of dedication, exhaustion, and valuable lessons learned.But here's the kicker: Are you making the same mistakes Hayley did? 🤔Discover how to navigate the intense world of youth hockey without burning out. Hayley shares her hard-earned wisdom on:~Surviving grueling schedules (1.5-hour drives, anyone?) 🚗~The sleep-deprived reality of chasing your dreams 😴~Why nutrition matters (even when you're craving that Double Baconator) 🍔~The art of setting boundaries with well-meaning (but intense) parents 🛑~Recognizing when your body's screaming "Enough!" 🚨Plus, get the inside scoop on:- Hayley's PWHL experience and how it shaped her career 🏆- The wake-up call that made her focus solely on hockey 🏑➡️🏒- Practical tips for managing parental expectations 👨👩👧👦Whether you're a player, parent, or coach, this episode is packed with game-changing insights. Don't miss Hayley's candid advice on creating a healthier, more balanced approach to youth hockey!📖 Want a written version you can reference anytime?Check out our companion blog: Lessons from Hayley Scamurra’s Youth Hockey Journey#RideToTheRink #YouthHockey #HayleyScamurra #HockeyLife #ParentingInSportsClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!NHL Sense Arena annual memberships are 50% off for the holidays, starting at just $29 a month — plus you can save an extra $25 with code OKPH at checkout.Gift you hockey family the ultimate hockey training experience with NHL Sense Arena ‘26 — available now at hockey.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 30, 2025 • 48min
Starting the Season Strong: Setting Your Hockey Family Up for Success
🏒 Are you ready to dominate the ice this season?In this game-changing episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, hosts Lee MJ Elias and Mike Bonelli reveal the secrets to starting the hockey season with unstoppable momentum. From mindset hacks to practical preparation tips, they're serving up a power play of knowledge that'll have your young athlete crushing it on and off the ice.🔥 Highlights Include: Avoiding the early-season mindset traps that derail success 🧠The art of establishing roles and fostering open communication 🗣️Underrated habits that set champions apart from the competition 🏆How to turn last season's experiences into this year's triumphs 📈Making the start of the season fun, not frantic 😄Whether you're a rookie parent or a seasoned coach, this episode is packed with actionable advice that'll transform your approach to the new hockey season.🎧 Don't miss out on this playbook for success—tune in now and give your young athlete the edge they need!📖 Want a written version you can reference anytime?Check out our companion blog: Starting the Season Strong: Setting Your Hockey Family Up for Success#HockeyMindset #YouthSports #SeasonPrep #OurKidsPlayHockey #HockeyParentingClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!NHL Sense Arena annual memberships are 50% off for the holidays, starting at just $29 a month — plus you can save an extra $25 with code OKPH at checkout.Gift you hockey family the ultimate hockey training experience with NHL Sense Arena ‘26 — available now at hockey.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


