Our Kids Play Hockey

Calling all young hockey players and future broadcasters! In this episode of The Ride to the Rink , broadcaster Jamie Hersch joins Lee Elias to share how kids can turn their love for sports into an exciting career in broadcasting. 🚨 Inside This Episode: ✅ How to get started in broadcasting —even as a kid! ✅ Overcoming fear —why doing it scared is the first step to success. ✅ Reps, reps, reps!...

In this episode of Our Girls Play Hockey , we welcome Jamie Hersch , a trailblazing broadcaster and studio host for the NHL Network, MLB Network, PWHL, Minnesota Wild, and Vegas Golden Knights . From growing up as a passionate sports fan in Minnesota to becoming a respected voice in hockey broadcasting, Jamie shares her inspiring journey, the challenges she’s faced, and the evolving role of women...

What makes a hockey parent truly legendary? 🏒 In this entertaining episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, hosts Lee, Christie, and Mike explore the lighter side of hockey parenting with a series of humorous awards. From the "Always on Time" accolade to the "Rink Cyclopedia" honor, they celebrate the unsung heroes of the rink—parents who go above and beyond for their kids. With perso...

In this episode of The Ride to the Rink , Lee and Mike discuss the often-overlooked power of positive body language in hockey. While much attention is given to avoiding negative habits like sulking or smashing sticks, this episode flips the script to explore how positivity can elevate not just individual performance but the entire team. From encouraging teammates after mistakes to staying engaged...

Hockey is more than just a game—it’s a team, a family, and a place where players support one another both on and off the ice. In this episode of The Ride to the Rink , we welcome world-class hockey player and mental health advocate Kendra Fisher to talk about an important part of the game that doesn’t always get enough attention—the mental side. Kendra shares her own journey with mental health, of...

In this episode of Our Kids Play Hockey , Lee and Mike shine a spotlight on one of hockey’s most vital yet underappreciated positions: the defenseman. They break down why strong defensive play is the key to offensive success and overall team stability. From understanding the “house” to the importance of skating, positioning, and transitions, this episode dives deep into the mindset and skills that...

What does it take to become a great hockey player—and a great teammate?  In this episode of The Ride to the Rink episode, Lee Elias, Christie Casciano Burns, and Mike Bonelli are joined by Matt Dumouchelle, author of the Hockey Factories series. Matt has traveled the world studying elite hockey programs, and he shares invaluable lessons for youth players about the importance of having fun, being a...

In this episode of Our Girls Play Hockey , goaltender-turned-advocate Kendra Fisher shares her journey from making Team Canada to battling severe anxiety and panic disorder. She reveals how hockey became both her escape and her lifeline, leading her to champion mental fitness in sports. Hockey players are told to be tough, but what happens when the battle is internal? Kendra discusses the pressure...

In this episode of Our Kids Play Hockey , Lee, Christie, and Mike sit down with Matt Dumouchelle, the creator of the Hockey Factories series and podcast via The Coaches Site . Matt’s in-depth exploration into elite hockey development programs worldwide has uncovered the secret ingredients behind their success—not just in creating great players, but in cultivating outstanding people. Matt shares in...

Are you ready to unlock the secrets of hockey greatness? 🏒✨ Buckle up as this episode of "The Ride to the Rink" brings you hall of fame advice from legendary NHL coach Mike Keenan! Host Lee MJ Elias and Coach Keenan dive into the heart of what it takes to reach the pinnacle of hockey success. From coaching icons like Wayne Gretzky and Mario Lemieux, Keenan shares his wisdom on the perf...

In this episode of The Ride to the Rink , three-time Olympic gold medalist Cherie Piper shares wisdom for young hockey players chasing their dreams. Whether your goal is to play in the PWHL, make it to the NHL, or pursue excellence in any area of life, Cherie offers invaluable advice about: • Dreaming Big: Why having bold aspirations drives purpose and energy. • The Many Paths to Success: How hock...

What does it take to coach the greatest hockey players of all time? In this unforgettable episode of Our Kids Play Hockey , the legendary Coach Mike Keenan joins Lee, Christie, and Mike to share wisdom from a career that spans decades, continents, and championships. From his Stanley Cup victory to managing icons like Wayne Gretzky, Mark Messier, and Mario Lemieux, Coach Keenan dives deep into the...

In this week's episode of Ride to the Rink , Lee and Mike dive into a crucial lesson for young players: how to keep your emotions in check and stay present, no matter what happens on the ice. Using relatable examples and practical advice, they explore how a few seconds of frustration—or celebration—can derail your performance if you let it. Learn why “being a goldfish” and practicing emotiona...

In this episode of Our Girls Play Hockey , we’re joined by none other than Cherie Piper—a three-time Olympic gold medalist and the Senior Manager of Scouting and Player Development for Hockey Canada. Fresh off another gold medal win at the U18 Women’s World Championship, Cherie shares her journey to becoming one of hockey’s most accomplished athletes. Together with hosts Lee MJ Elias, Sheri Hudspe...

In this thought-provoking episode of Our Kids Play Hockey , hosts Lee Elias and Christie Casciano Burns dive into the controversial world of youth hockey rankings with special guests Ken Ruoff and Jean Linscott, authors of What Is the Goal? The Truth About the Youth Sports Industry . Together, they tackle the tough questions surrounding the impact of rankings, the emphasis on winning over developm...

How do you bounce back from massive adversity in your life? On today’s episode of Ride to the Rink , NHL veteran Chris Therien joins Lee, Christie, and Mike to inspire young players with wisdom drawn from his 12-year professional career. As kids and families head to the rink, Chris shares advice on the importance of having fun, competing with effort, and being a great teammate. 💡 Key Highlights:...

🏒 What does it take to create a positive experience in youth hockey? In this insightful episode of Our Kids Play Hockey , former NHL defenseman and mental health advocate Chris Therien joins Lee, Christie, and Mike to dive deep into the challenges and opportunities in youth hockey today. Drawing from his 12-year NHL career and personal experiences as a coach and parent, Chris shares hard-earned w...

Are you ready to elevate your hockey game and finish this season strong?  On this episode of "The Ride to the Rink" hosts Lee and Mike share motivational strategies to help young players enhance their skills and performance in the second half of the season. They offer practical advice on setting achievable goals, managing time effectively, and honing specific skills both during team prac...

Are you skating into 2025 with a fresh perspective? On this episode of "The Ride to the Rink," host Lee Elias offers a motivational boost for players looking to reset and refocus as the new year unfolds. Lee encourages listeners to pause, reflect on their journey, and set new goals to enhance their skills and performance. By emphasizing the power of present actions, he guides players to...

Are you ready to finish the hockey season on a high note?  Join hosts Lee, Christie, and Mike as they explore strategies to keep the momentum going, no matter your team's current standing.  Discover how to maintain positivity and motivation with engaging drills like the "candy drill," and tackle burnout by setting fresh goals and injecting fun into practices. Learn how to manage par...

Are you ready to jump back into the swing of things after a long winter break? In this episode of "Ride to the Rink," hosts Christie Casciano-Burns, Lee MJ Elias, and Mike Bonelli provide essential guidance for young hockey players and their parents as they transition back into their routines after a long winter break. The discussion centers on the importance of re-establishing daily hab...

Join Lee Elias, Christie Casciano, and Mike Bonelli to celebrate all things "Our Kids Play Hockey" from 2024. Reflecting on the past year, we share insights into the podcast's impressive growth, and how we've ranked in the top 10% on Buzzsprout, and reached listeners in 77 countries. This episode also highlights the top episodes that have captivated the audience, from youth hoc...

Happy Holidays from the Our Kids Play Hockey team! On today’s episode of The Ride To The Rink, Lee, Christie, Mike, and Sheri share their advice for kids as they celebrate the holidays. From taking care of your gear, to having gratitude for the game - this episode is a great holiday listen. Click To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team! Keep your player sharp this summer with NHL Sense Arena. Save $...

Lee, Mike, Christie, and Sheri share the warmest of wishes this Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa for the whole team! We’re grateful for each and every listener this and every season and hope you have a wonderful holiday spent with your families! Click To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team! Keep your player sharp this summer with NHL Sense Arena. Save $25 on an annual plan with code OKPH at hockey....

Hello, hockey friends and families! 🎙️ This week’s episode of Our Kids Play Hockey is a short but special one. We’re thrilled to announce that our podcast has been nominated for the 2025 Hockey Podcast of the Year by the Sports Podcast Awards! 🏆 After winning in 2023 and 2024, we’re going for the hat trick—and we need your help to make it happen. 🗳️ Vote for Our Kids Play Hockey! It’s simple: Cli...