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Our Kids Play Hockey: Slow Cooker Development: Ryan Carter’s Nhl Journey & What Youth Hockey Parents Must Know

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Episode Description

What if chasing the best team is actually holding your player back?This week on Our Kids Play Hockey, we sit down with former NHL forward and Stanley Cup champion Ryan Carter to unpack the truth about youth hockey development and why the slow cooker might beat the instant pot every time.From growing up in White Bear Lake, Minnesota to carving out a 10-year NHL career (after going undrafted), Ryan shares the mindset shifts, parenting lessons, and culture-building philosophies that shaped his journey and how hes now passing them on through broadcasting and ETS Performance.This is an episode every hockey parent and player needs to hear. Inside This Episode: Why development should be a crock pot, not an instant pot The real difference between good players and NHL players Why Plan B might secretly sabotage Plan A The power of environment in player development What parents should (and shouldnt) say in the car after games Why belief sets your ceiling and how to raise it The importance of team-first thinking (high tide raises all ships)Ryan also opens up about:Playing alongside legends like Teemu SelnneHis first NHL game nerves in the Western Conference FinalsThe surprising role of luck and stick-to-itiveness in making the NHLWhy confidence and belonging are everything at the highest levelThis conversation is honest, practical, and deeply encouraging. Whether your player is on the A team, B team, or just starting out this episode will reframe how you think about development. Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: Slow Cooker Development: What Ryan Carters NHL Journey Teaches Hockey Families Got questions? Email us at team@ourkidsplayhockey.com Check out our childrens book When Hockey Stops at WhenHockeyStops.comEnjoy your hockey. Enjoy your day. And remember development is a marathon, not a sprint.#OurKidsPlayHockey #YouthHockeyDevelopment #HockeyParenting #RyanCarter #NHLJourney #HockeyMindset #TeamCulture #ResilientAthletes #SlowCookerDevelopmentClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Trusted by our kids! Trust it with yours! Trusted at the NHL level through youth hockey, Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace. Visit NHL.SenseArena.com/OKPH for their lowest price of the season and use code OKPH to get $25 off an annual plan or headset bundle.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

Website: Our Kids Play Hockey

Our Kids Play Hockey: The Ride To The Rink: Stats — Friend, Foe, Or Fuel For Growth?

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Episode Description

Stats. Love them. Hate them. Ignore them. No matter where you fall on the spectrum, one thing is certain statistics are part of hockey, and how you use them can shape your growth as a player.On this episode of The Ride to the Rink, Mike and Lee dive into one of the most emotional and misunderstood parts of the game: hockey stats. Goals, assists, plus-minus, turnovers, save percentage they can motivate you, frustrate you, or even expose parts of your game youd rather not see. But heres the truth: stats arent the enemy misusing them is.In this conversation, Mike and Lee break down:Why stats can reveal both strengths and blind spotsHow to avoid becoming defined by one numberWhy coaches use stats and how players should respondWhen stats matter and when they really dontHow elite players use uncomfortable stats to improveWhy being a well-rounded, reliable player matters more than chasing points Whether youre a player who checks the stat sheet daily or one who avoids it completely, this episode will help you rethink how stats fit into your hockey journey and how to use them as a tool, not a trap. Remember: the stats are in the past. Your effort, habits, and mindset decide what comes next. Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: Stats Dont Define You How Hockey Players Should Really Use Numbers to Get Better Wherever you are on your hockey path, we believe in you. You should too.#RideToTheRink #HockeyStats #YouthHockey #HockeyDevelopment #TeamFirst #HockeyMindset #PlayerDevelopment #HockeyParents #HockeyLifeClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Trusted by our kids! Trust it with yours! Trusted at the NHL level through youth hockey, Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace. Visit NHL.SenseArena.com/OKPH for their lowest price of the season and use code OKPH to get $25 off an annual plan or headset bundle.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

Website: Our Kids Play Hockey

Our Kids Play Hockey: Our Girls Play Hockey: Haley Winn On Making Team Usa, Scoring Her First Pwhl Goal & Living The Dream

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Episode Description

What does it actually feel like to get the call that youve made Team USA?In this unforgettable episode of Our Girls Play Hockey, hosts Lee Elias, Mike Bonelli, and Hayley Scamurra sit down with Boston Fleet rookie and newly named Team USA Olympian Haley Winn to talk about the moment her childhood dream became reality.From backyard battles with her three older brothers to the USA Hockey Development Program, starring at Clarkson University, and now playing professionally in the PWHL Haleys journey is a masterclass in discipline, confidence, and trusting the process.And yes she just scored her first PWHL goal. But this conversation goes far deeper than stats. Haley opens up about:The mental shift required to move up each level of USA HockeyWhat process goals really mean and how they fueled her Olympic pathBalancing Division I academics and elite hockey at ClarksonThe jump from college to the PWHL and adjusting to pro-level physicalityRepresenting the United States on the worlds biggest stage Handling success with humility when others fall shortHayley Scamurra also shares powerful insight from her own Olympic experience including what its really like to walk into Opening Ceremonies and feel the weight (and privilege) of representing your country. One of our favorite takeaways:If you hold onto the outcome too tightly, it moves further away. Focus on the day-to-day, and itll come to you.For every girl dreaming of the Olympics for every parent wondering what it truly takes this episode is your blueprint. Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: From Backyard Ice to the Olympic Stage: Haley Winns Journey to Team USA Listen now, and remember dreams become reality when you fall in love with the process.#OurGirlsPlayHockey #WomensHockey #TeamUSA #HaleyWinn #HayleyScamurra #PWHL #BostonFleet #GirlsHockey #OlympicDream #USADevelopmentProgramClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Trusted by our kids! Trust it with yours! Trusted at the NHL level through youth hockey, Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace. Visit NHL.SenseArena.com/OKPH for their lowest price of the season and use code OKPH to get $25 off an annual plan or headset bundle.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

Website: Our Kids Play Hockey

Our Kids Play Hockey: Mailbag: Youth Hockey Stats, Goalie Blame, And Smarter Coaching Conversations

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Episode Description

Its time to open the mailbag and these questions go way deeper than you might expect.In this episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, Lee, Mike, and Christie tackle two listener questions that hit at the heart of youth hockey development accountability, stats, and how parents can support learning without getting in the way.First up, a coach asks a question we hear all the time: Is there a stat that shows how many mistakes lead to goals and how do we help kids understand that goals arent just on the goalie?From blue line turnovers and unforced mistakes to age-appropriate stat tracking and accountability, this conversation goes far beyond analytics. Its about teaching the game, not blaming the game and knowing when to coach skills, when to coach decisions, and when to let players take ownership.Then, we shift gears to a brand-new hockey family with a 5-year-old whos obsessed with skating. When should kids stop using rental skates? Do sticks matter at this age? How much should parents really invest early on?This episode is packed with real-world advice, honest perspective, and reminders of what youth hockey is actually about development, patience, and love for the game. Episode Highlights:Why every goal is a team mistake, not just a goalie mistakeThe one stat coaches can track at any level (and how to use it properly)How turnovers at the blue line shape wins, losses, and learningThe fine line between reducing mistakes and killing creativityWhat parents of young players should (and shouldnt) spend money onWhy rentals hold kids back and how to upgrade without breaking the bank Have a question you want answered on a future mailbag episode?Email us at team@ourkidsplayhockey.com or use the link in the episode description. Enjoy the ride, enjoy the rink, and thanks for being part of the Our Kids Play Hockey community. Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: What Stats Really Matter in Youth Hockey And When to Buy Your Kid Their First Skates#OurKidsPlayHockey #YouthHockey #HockeyParents #HockeyCoaching #Click To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Trusted by our kids! Trust it with yours! Trusted at the NHL level through youth hockey, Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace. Visit NHL.SenseArena.com/OKPH for their lowest price of the season and use code OKPH to get $25 off an annual plan or headset bundle.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

Website: Our Kids Play Hockey

Our Kids Play Hockey: Our Girls Play Hockey: A Day In The Life (mid Season): Hayley Scamurra, Olympian & Pwhl Veteran

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Episode Description

What does a normal day look like when youre a PWHL player, a Team USA Olympian, and right in the middle of a historic season for womens hockey?In this mid-season edition of A Day in the Life, we go behind the scenes with Hayley Scamurra as she balances professional hockey, Olympic preparation, travel, recovery, leadership, and the daily grind that fans rarely get to see.From getting the call that officially made her a Team USA Olympian to turning the page the very next day and preparing for another PWHL game, Hayley opens up about what it really means to stay present, grounded, and competitive in an Olympic year especially while playing alongside (and against) future Olympic teammates. In this episode, we cover: What it felt like to officially make Team USA and why the celebration is short Competing in the PWHL during an Olympic season (and why this year is different) Flipping the switch between teammates and opponents Staying mentally locked in while ignoring standings and outside noise Why penalty killing is a mindset and a source of pride How roles, chemistry, and doing the little things earn trust at the pro level Recovery, nutrition, travel, and managing energy in a relentless schedule What it means to represent your country every single dayThis episode is a masterclass in professional mindset, elite preparation, and team-first hockey, with lessons for players, parents, and coaches at every level of the game. Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: A Day in the Life (Mid-Season): Inside the Mind of a PWHL Olympian Have a question for Hayley? Email us at team@ourkidsplayhockey.com, message us on Instagram, or tap the link in the episode description to text the show we love hearing from the hockey community.#OurGirlsPlayHockey #WomensHockey #PWHL #TeamUSA #Olympian #GirlsHockey #DayInTheLife #HockeyMindset #PenaltyKill #WomenInSportsClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Trusted by our kids! Trust it with yours! Trusted at the NHL level through youth hockey, Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace. Visit NHL.SenseArena.com/OKPH for their lowest price of the season and use code OKPH to get $25 off an annual plan or headset bundle.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

Website: Our Kids Play Hockey

Our Kids Play Hockey: Pavel Barber (part 2): Why Slowing Down Is The Fastest Way To Get Better At Hockey

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Episode Description

What if the secret to elite hockey skills isnt more ice time but more patience?In Part 2 of our powerful conversation with Pavel Barber, we go far beyond highlight-reel moves and viral clips to unpack what real skill development actually looks like.From mastering the basics to embracing boredom, failing forward, and letting go of ego, Pavel delivers one of the most important messages young players, parents, and coaches can hear right now. In this episode, we dive into:Why slowing down is the fastest way to get betterHow off-ice reps (even 10 minutes a day) can transform a players gameThe truth about trick shots, social media, and instant gratificationWhy boredom, creativity, and free play are development superpowersHow floorball, multi-sport play, and other interests build better hockey playersThe role of failure, ego management, and grit in long-term success Pavel also shares stories from representing Team Canada in floorball, explains why todays kids have an incredibly high ceiling, and reminds everyone listening that comparison is the fastest way to lose joy in the game.This isnt about becoming the next viral sensation its about learning how to love the process, trust the work, and build skills that actually translate to the ice. Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: Why Slowing Down Might Be the Fastest Way to Help Your Child Get Better at Hockey If youre a hockey parent, coach, or young player trying to navigate development in todays fast-paced world, this episode is a must-listen. Have questions or thoughts? Click the link in the show notes and let us know we love hearing from our hockey community.#OurKidsPlayHockey #PavelBarber #YouthHockeyDevelopment #HockeySkills #DelayedGratification #HockeyParents #HockeyCoaches #LoveTheProcess #MultiSportAthleteClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Trusted by our kids! Trust it with yours! Trusted at the NHL level through youth hockey, Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace. Visit NHL.SenseArena.com/OKPH for their lowest price of the season and use code OKPH to get $25 off an annual plan or headset bundle.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

Website: Our Kids Play Hockey

Our Kids Play Hockey: The Ride To The Rink: Pavel Barber On Slowing Down, Dreaming Bigger, And Trusting Your Own Path

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Episode Description

What if getting better at hockey isnt about going faster but about slowing down?On this Ride to the Rink, we pull one of the most important messages from our Our Kids Play Hockey conversation with Pavel Barber and turn it into a lesson every hockey family needs to hear.Pavel shares why todays kids are more skilled than ever, why their ceilings are higher than they realize, and why comparison especially on social media can quietly derail confidence and development.This isnt about flashy moves or highlight reels. Its about: Learning where skills actually apply Understanding that failure is part of growth Trusting the long development timeline Keeping creativity alive while staying disciplinedPavel reminds young players (and parents) that every viral clip hides thousands of failed reps and that the only player worth comparing yourself to is who you were yesterday.Whether youre headed to practice, school, or just need a quick reset before stepping on the ice, this is a Ride to the Rink conversation that will stick with you long after the drive ends. Listen, talk it over, and take this mindset with you onto the ice. Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: Why Slowing Down Might Be the Fastest Way for Young Hockey Players to Improve#RideToTheRink #OurKidsPlayHockey #PavelBarber #HockeyDevelopment #YouthHockey #HockeyMindset #PlayerDevelopment #TrustTheProcessClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Trusted by our kids! Trust it with yours! Trusted at the NHL level through youth hockey, Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace. Visit NHL.SenseArena.com/OKPH for their lowest price of the season and use code OKPH to get $25 off an annual plan or headset bundle.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

Website: Our Kids Play Hockey

Our Kids Play Hockey: Be A Part Of The Miracle: Supporting The 1980 Us Olympic Hockey Legacy

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Episode Description

Some hockey moments live forever and some deserve to be remembered forever.This is one of those special Our Kids Play Hockey announcement episodes that hits right in the heart.Were proud to share that Our Kids Play Hockey is officially teaming up with the 1980 U.S. Olympic Hockey Team to help support something truly meaningful: the creation of a Monument to a Miracle at Lake Placid a permanent tribute to one of the greatest moments in sports history. Heres how you can be part of it: Weve partnered with Hockey Wraparound to release Miracle Sunglasses inspired by the 1980 team Red, white, and blue details with 1980 on one arm and Miracle on the other For every pair sold, $10 is donated directly to the Monument to a Miracle Fund Bonus: Youll also get $5 off additional Wraparound productsThis episode is short, powerful, and all about community because hockey families always show up when it matters. Grab your sunglasses, support a historic team, and help ensure this moment is never forgotten.Thanks for supporting the show, supporting hockey history, and being the best hockey community in the world. Well see you at the rink. #OurKidsPlayHockey #MiracleOnIce #1980OlympicTeam #HockeyHistory #LakePlacid #HockeyFamilies #YouthHockeyCommunity #MonumentToAMiracleClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Heading into 2026, hockey families are asking: How do we get better? More ice time isnt always realistic but smarter training is. Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace. Visit SenseArena.com/OKPH and use code OKPH to get 50% off plus $25 off an annual plan or headset bundle.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

Website: Our Kids Play Hockey

Our Kids Play Hockey: Our Girls Play Hockey: The Pwhl Takeover Tour Takes Over Washington, Dc

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Episode Description

We want a team! Thats what 17,228 fans shouted inside Capital One Arena and it perfectly captured what made the PWHL Takeover Tour stop in Washington, D.C. such a historic, emotional, and game-changing moment for womens hockey.In this episode of Our Girls Play Hockey, Lee sits down with Hayley Scamurra to recap an unforgettable weekend that was about so much more than a final score.From a sold-out open practice packed with young girls and families, to record-breaking game-day energy, to a late-game scrum that reminded everyone that hockey is hockey, this takeover was a powerful statement about where the womens game is right now and where its headed. In this episode, we talk about:Why PWHL Takeover Tours are so impactful for players, fans, and future marketsWhat it felt like to hear fans chanting We want a team!The importance of visibility and how one practice changed a youth teams seasonThe reality behind the end-of-game scrum (and why it shouldnt surprise anyone)Alex Ovechkin, NHL support, and what respect across the game really looks likeHayleys emotional homecoming in D.C. and her familys deep Capitals connectionHow parents, coaches, and organizations can use takeover events to grow the game This wasnt just a game. It was a reminder that womens hockey is here, its thriving, and its demanding space loudly. Have a question for Hayley or a topic you want us to cover?Email team@ourkidsplayhockey.com or text us using the link in the episode description wed love to hear from you. Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: The PWHL Takeover Tour in Washington, D.C. Was Bigger Than Hockey#OurGirlsPlayHockey #PWHL #WomensHockey #TakeoverTour #GrowTheGame #GirlsHockey #HockeyParents #YouthHockey #WomensSportsClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Heading into 2026, hockey families are asking: How do we get better? More ice time isnt always realistic but smarter training is. Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace. Visit SenseArena.com/OKPH and use code OKPH to get 50% off plus $25 off an annual plan or headset bundle.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

Website: Our Kids Play Hockey

Our Kids Play Hockey: The Ride To The Rink: Pavel Barber On Skill, Failure, And Loving The Process

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Episode Description

Kids, buckle up this ones special.On this episode of The Ride to the Rink, were joined by one of the most creative and recognizable puck handlers in the world Pavel Barber.If youve ever dreamed of dangling like the pros, pulling off trick shots, or making defenders look silly Pavel is here to tell you what actually matters most when it comes to getting better at hockey.And spoiler alert: its not the tricks. In this episode, Pavel shares:Why skating and edge work matter more than hands or shootingHow puck control really works (hint: its about options and awareness)Why failure isnt something to avoid its something to chaseHow to manage your ego when trying new skills feels uncomfortableWhen creative moves do make sense and when they dontA powerful message for kids with big hockey dreams This is a masterclass in patience, confidence, and trusting the process, delivered in a way every young player can understand. Kids listen closely. If Pavel Barber is telling you skating comes first thats something worth remembering. Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: What Pavel Barber Wants Young Hockey Players to Understand About Getting Better Take this conversation with you to the rink, the driveway, or the basement and let it shape how you practice, how you think, and how you grow as a hockey player. Have fun. Work hard. We believe in you.#TheRideToTheRink #PavelBarber #YouthHockey #HockeySkills #HockeyDevelopment #EdgeWork #HockeyMindset #FailToSucceed #OurKidsPlayHockeyClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Heading into 2026, hockey families are asking: How do we get better? More ice time isnt always realistic but smarter training is. Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace. Visit SenseArena.com/OKPH and use code OKPH to get 50% off plus $25 off an annual plan or headset bundle.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

Website: Our Kids Play Hockey

Our Kids Play Hockey: Pavel Barber On Creativity Vs Application: Are We Teaching Hockey Skills Wrong? (part 1of 2)

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Episode Description

Is creativity in hockey being misunderstood or mis-taught?If your player loves skill moves, toe drags, and trick shots but struggles to know when to use them this episode is a must-listen.This week on Our Kids Play Hockey, Lee Elias, Christie Casciano-Burns, and Mike Bonelli are joined by global skills coach and viral hockey creator Pavel Barber for a powerful, thoughtful conversation about skill development, creativity, and application in todays game.Pavel pulls back the curtain on what truly matters in player development and it might surprise you coming from one of the most skilled puck handlers on the planet. In this episode, we dive into: Creativity vs. application why skill only matters if it solves a problem Why skating is still the foundation (yes, even according to Pavel Barber) How to teach kids when to use moves like toe drags and Michigan attempts Helping players build their own identity, not just copy what they see online Why labeling moves as flashy can actually stunt development How failure, when done right, accelerates growth and confidenceThis conversation is packed with practical insights for parents, coaches, and players navigating modern youth hockey especially in an era where highlights are everywhere, but understanding often isnt. Important note: This is Part 1 of a 2-part series. In Part 2, well go deeper into Pavels journey as an international athlete, his discipline behind the scenes, and the mindset that separates good players from great ones. Listen now and then bring this conversation to your next ride to the rink. Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: Creativity, Skill, and the Truth About Development: What Pavel Barber Wants Hockey Families to Understand If you found value in this episode, please rate, review, and share it with another hockey family. Dont forget to check out our childrens book When Hockey Stops at WhenHockeyStops.com.#OurKidsPlayHockey #PavelBarber #HockeyDevelopment #YouthHockey #HockeySkills #CreativeHockey #HockeyParents #PlayerDevelopment Click To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Heading into 2026, hockey families are asking: How do we get better? More ice time isnt always realistic but smarter training is. Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace. Visit SenseArena.com/OKPH and use code OKPH to get 50% off plus $25 off an annual plan or headset bundle.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

Website: Our Kids Play Hockey

Our Kids Play Hockey: The Ride To The Rink: Finish Strong — What The End Of The Season Reveals About You

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Episode Description

The season is winding down but the work isnt over yet.As playoffs approach or the final games come into view this episode of The Ride to the Rink is all about how you finish. Because whether youre chasing a championship or counting down the last few skates, the habits you build right now matter more than you think.In this solo ride, Lee shares the exact messages hes delivering to teams across age groups as the season enters its final stretch lessons that apply no matter where your team sits in the standings. In this episode, we cover:Why the end of the season is the best time for honest self-reflectionHow to fight burnout, refocus your mindset, and reset your standardsWhy slow starts and slow finishes are team habits not accidentsWhat coaches really notice during the final games and evaluationsNavigating ice time, shortened benches, and understanding your roleHow finishing strong impacts how coaches, teammates, and organizations remember you Whether youre a player fighting for every shift, a leader trying to pull your team together, or a parent listening along in the car this is a reminder that character shows up loudest at the end. Have a question you want us to answer on the show?Tap the link in the episode description to send it in anonymously or by name. Finish strong. Always.#RideToTheRink #YouthHockey #FinishStrong #HockeyMindset #Playoffs #TeamCulture #HockeyDevelopment #OurKidsPlayHockeyClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Heading into 2026, hockey families are asking: How do we get better? More ice time isnt always realistic but smarter training is. Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace. Visit SenseArena.com/OKPH and use code OKPH to get 50% off plus $25 off an annual plan or headset bundle.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

Website: Our Kids Play Hockey

Our Kids Play Hockey: Our Girls Play Hockey: Strong Looks Different On Everyone: A Conversation On Body Image

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Episode Description

This is one of the most requested topics weve ever received and for good reason.Body image. Confidence. Strength. These are conversations that affect almost every girl hockey player and family at some point yet theyre rarely talked about openly.In this powerful and honest episode of Our Girls Play Hockey, Lee Elias and former Olympian Hayley Scamurra dive deep into the evolving definition of strength in girls hockey from youth levels all the way to the pros.Together, they unpack:The body image pressures female athletes face (often starting way earlier than we realize)Why the number on the scale is not a measure of performance or worthStrength training myths including the fear of getting too bulkyHow social media fuels comparison (and how to protect confidence in a scroll-heavy world)Why reframing strength as what your body can do changes everythingHayley shares her own journey from struggling to fit into jeans as a kid, to embracing her physical strength as one of her greatest assets on the ice. Lee brings the perspective of a coach, parent, and lifelong hockey advocate, challenging outdated narratives around health, fitness, and confidence. This episode isnt just for players. Its for parents, coaches, and hockey dads who want to support girls the right way with empathy, education, and leadership. We want to hear from you.If this episode resonates, email us at team@ourkidsplayhockey.com or use the text link in the show notes to share your thoughts or questions.Have fun, work hard, get better and remember: strong looks different on everyone.#OurGirlsPlayHockey #GirlsHockey #Confidence #BodyImage #FemaleAthletes #HockeyParents #StrengthTraining #YouthSportsClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Heading into 2026, hockey families are asking: How do we get better? More ice time isnt always realistic but smarter training is. Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace. Visit SenseArena.com/OKPH and use code OKPH to get 50% off plus $25 off an annual plan or headset bundle.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

Website: Our Kids Play Hockey

Our Kids Play Hockey: 2025 Year In Review: Top Eps, Global Reach, And What’s Next

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Episode Description

Were closing the book on 2025 with our annual Year in Reviewand the numbers are WILD. From 156 episodes (yep3 per week) to 4,454 minutes of content (74+ hours) and listeners in 100 countries, this show continues to grow because of one thing: the hockey community sharing it.We also count down the Top 5 episodes of 2025 (plus an honorable mention), talk through the topics parents are clearly searching for most (tryouts, development, myths, and expectations), and pull back the curtain on what happens after we hit end recordingincluding how titles, transcripts, and social clips help families actually find the episodes they need.And if youve ever wondered whether the show is still growing November + December 2025 were the two biggest months weve ever had. Hockey-stick chart. Straight up.Key TakeawaysConsistency wins: 156 episodes in 2025 and no missed weeks in 6 yearsGlobal reach: listeners in 100 countries and 3,853 cities in 2025Top cities: Toronto #1, followed by Minneapolis and ChicagoTop 10% on Buzzsprout: driven by listens per episode + community sharingThe search effect is real: the episodes that rank highest are the ones parents need answers to (tryouts, benchmarks, myths)The Top 5 Episodes of 2025 (Countdown)#5: Do Early Hockey Stars Stay Ahead? (Ep. 399)#4: What Skills Should My Kid Have at Their Age? (Ep. 390)#3: 3 Pieces of Advice Hockey Parents Ask For and Ignore (Ep. 376)#2: Debunking Youth Hockey Myths w/ Bruins Performance Coach Kevin Neal (Ep. 358)#1: The Truth About Tryouts and Evaluations (Ep. 355)Honorable Mention: The Underappreciated Defenseman (Ep. 343)Practical Tips for Parents (takeaways from this discussion)Dont panic over a 23 day tryout windowevaluation happens all seasonUse benchmarks as guardrails, not pressurekids develop at different speedsWhen youre stuck at the rink search the website + share the episodeSend questions insome of the best episodes start with a listener email--Click To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Heading into 2026, hockey families are asking: How do we get better? More ice time isnt always realistic but smarter training is. Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace. Visit SenseArena.com/OKPH and use code OKPH to get 50% off plus $25 off an annual plan or headset bundle.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

Website: Our Kids Play Hockey

Our Kids Play Hockey: Our Girls Play Hockey: From 9 Year Old Dreamer To Olympian: A Mailbag With Hayley Scamurra

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What does it really take to go from a 9-year-old hockey player with a dream to an Olympian and professional hockey player?In this special Our Girls Play Hockey Mailbag Episode (Part 1), hosts Lee Elias and Mike Bonelli are joined by our very own Olympic and professional hockey player Hayley Scamurra to answer your questions straight from young players, parents, and families across the hockey community.After posting a simple call for questions, the response was overwhelming. So many thoughtful, curious, and mature questions came in that this mailbag turned into a two-part series. In this episode, we focus on Hayleys journey from youth hockey to college, Team USA, and ultimately the pro game. Youll hear Hayley answer questions like:How did she go from a 9-year-old player to an Olympian?What really separates good players from great ones?What skills Olympic coaches actually look for (hint: its not just goals)What habit did she have to unlearn to reach the next level?How important is mindset compared to talent?Why making mistakes is actually part of becoming elite This episode is packed with honesty, perspective, and reassurance for young players who feel pressure to be perfect and for parents navigating the ups and downs of the hockey journey alongside them. Coming next: Mailbag Part 2 dives into life as a professional hockey player and the current state of womens hockey including the PWHL and what the future holds. Listen in, take notes, and remind yourself (or your player) that the journey matters just as much as the destination. Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: From Dreamer to Olympian: What Young Players Can Learn from Hayley Scamurras Hockey Journey#OurGirlsPlayHockey #WomensHockey #GirlsHockey #HockeyJourney #MentalGame #OlympicMindset #PWHL #YouthHockey #HockeyParentsClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Heading into 2026, hockey families are asking: How do we get better? More ice time isnt always realistic but smarter training is. Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace. Visit SenseArena.com/OKPH and use code OKPH to get 50% off plus $25 off an annual plan or headset bundle.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

Website: Our Kids Play Hockey

Our Kids Play Hockey: The Ride To The Rink: What Elite Players Do Before They Step On The Ice With Sandy Cohan

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What if your best shift actually starts before you step on the ice?On this episode of The Ride to the Rink, Lee Elias and Mike Bonelli are joined by mindset coach Sandy Cohan to talk about something every player can control how you prepare mentally on the way to the rink.Too many players think they can just flip a switch once the puck drops. The truth? Your competitive engine needs to be warmed up before you lace up your skates. In this ride, we break down: Why your brain doesnt understand dont (and how negative thoughts sneak in) How to replace dont mess up with clear, powerful to-do thoughts Why choosing a simple daily theme beats focusing on stats or outcomes What it really means to be impossible to ignore How to measure gains, not gaps, after every game or practice Why champions think in todays, not seasonsThis is a must-listen for players who want to compete harder, parents who want to help without adding pressure, and coaches who care about building confident, resilient athletes. Wherever you are on your hockey journey we believe in you. You should too.Skate hard. Have fun. Get better every day. Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog:The Game Starts Before the Rink How to Build Your Competitive Mindset Early#RideToTheRink #HockeyMindset #YouthHockey #MentalPreparation #CompeteEveryDay #HockeyDevelopment #GainsNotGapsClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Heading into 2026, hockey families are asking: How do we get better? More ice time isnt always realistic but smarter training is. Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace. Visit SenseArena.com/OKPH and use code OKPH to get 50% off plus $25 off an annual plan or headset bundle.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

Website: Our Kids Play Hockey

Our Kids Play Hockey: Mental Edge Hockey Founder Sandy Cohan On Confidence, Belief, And Youth Sports

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What if the most important skill your hockey player needs isnt taught on the ice?In this powerful episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, Lee Elias, Christie Casciano-Burns, and Mike Bonelli are joined by Sandy Cohan, founder of Mental Edge Hockey and author of the 99 Rules book series, for a deep, honest, and eye-opening conversation about mindset, confidence, and what it really takes to develop resilient hockey players and strong humans.Sandy breaks down why mindset isnt a specialty skill, but the foundation everything else is built on. From youth players struggling with confidence, to parents navigating the balance between protection and pressure, this episode delivers practical insight every hockey family needs. In this episode, we discuss:Why confidence is built, not bornThe real difference between belief and confidenceHow defining success changes everything for young athletesWhy kids dont need to avoid failure they need to learn how to get back upWhat parents and coaches often get wrong about motivation and gritHow mindset training can (and should) start as early as 68 years oldWhy hockey is just the vehicle and character is the destination Sandy also shares the story behind his 99 Rules Every Athlete Needs to Know and 99 Rules Every Sports Parent Needs to Know books simple, powerful reminders that resonate far beyond the rink.If you care about your childs long-term development, love for the game, and life beyond hockey, this is a must-listen. And dont miss it Sandy also joins us on The Ride to the Rink for a kid-focused follow-up your players will love.Listen now and start building confidence from the inside out.#OurKidsPlayHockey #MentalEdgeHockey #YouthHockeyParents #HockeyMindset #SportsParenting #PlayerDevelopment #ConfidenceAndGritClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Heading into 2026, hockey families are asking: How do we get better? More ice time isnt always realistic but smarter training is. Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace. Visit SenseArena.com/OKPH and use code OKPH to get 50% off plus $25 off an annual plan or headset bundle.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

Website: Our Kids Play Hockey

Our Kids Play Hockey: How The Nihl Built One Of The Largest Girls Hockey Leagues In America With Bob Apter

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How do you grow a girls hockey league from a handful of teams to one of the largest in the country?This week on Our Girls Play Hockey, hosts Lee Elias and Hayley Scamurra sit down with Bob Apter, President of the Northern Illinois Hockey League (NIHL) an organization now home to 75 girls travel teams across five states and counting.From humble beginnings to a multi-state powerhouse, Bob shares the inside story of how NIHL became a model for competitive balance, accessibility, and innovation in youth hockey. Youll hear how creative ideas like the Peoria Rule that makes travel more affordable and charm bracelet championships that celebrate every players journey are reshaping the culture of girls hockey. Highlights include:The origin story of NIHLs girls division and how it scaled beyond IllinoisWhy competitive balance is the secret to retention and successThe unique Peoria Rule keeping travel fair and affordableNew initiatives linking NIHL with the PWHL and college programsHow alumni like Cammi Granato, Kendall Coyne Schofield, and Abby Murphy continue to inspireWhy now is the best time ever to start or grow a girls hockey program Whether youre a parent, coach, or player this episode is full of lessons on what it takes to build a thriving, inclusive hockey community. Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: How the NIHL Built One of the Largest Girls Hockey Leagues in America Tune in, share with your team, and keep growing the game!#GirlsHockey #YouthSports #PWHL #NIHL #CammiGranato #KendallCoyneSchofield #AbbyMurphy #OurGirlsPlayHockey #HockeyDevelopment #GrowTheGame #MidwestHockeyClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Heading into 2026, hockey families are asking: How do we get better? More ice time isnt always realistic but smarter training is. Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace. Visit SenseArena.com/OKPH and use code OKPH to get 50% off plus $25 off an annual plan or headset bundle.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

Website: Our Kids Play Hockey

Our Kids Play Hockey: The Ride To The Rink: Why Being “picked” Early Doesn’t Define Your Hockey Future With Matt Dumouchelle

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What if not being identified as a top player early actually worked in your favor?On this episode of The Ride to The Rink, Lee Elias and Mike Bonelli are joined by their good friend Matt Dumouchelle, creator of Hockey Factories and a global student of hockey development. Matt has traveled the world studying how different countries develop players and what hes learned challenges a lot of the North American mindset around early selection, elite teams, and being picked.Together, they dive into one of the most important messages young players and families can hear: Being selected at 10, 12, or 14 doesnt determine how good youll be but your habits, mindset, and effort absolutely will. In this episode, youll learn:Why European hockey development focuses on developing everyone, not just early standoutsWhy being cut from a team is not the end of the roadHow work ethic, attitude, and energy outlast early talentWhy your role as a player will (and should) change every yearHow playing different positions builds hockey IQ and long-term successWhy consistency and commitment matter more than highlights Whether youre an 8-year-old just starting out, a teenager chasing your next opportunity, or a parent wondering how to support your child through the ups and downs this episode is packed with perspective, reassurance, and motivation. Remember: You dont have to be the best player right now. You just have to keep showing up and getting better. Buckle up and enjoy the ride. Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: Youth Hockey Development: Why Early Selection Doesnt Define Success#TheRideToTheRink #YouthHockey #HockeyDevelopment #HockeyMindset #LongTermDevelopment #TrustTheProcess #HockeyParents #YouthSports #PlayerDevelopment #HockeyLifeClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Heading into 2026, hockey families are asking: How do we get better? More ice time isnt always realistic but smarter training is. Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace. Visit SenseArena.com/OKPH and use code OKPH to get 50% off plus $25 off an annual plan or headset bundle.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

Website: Our Kids Play Hockey

Our Kids Play Hockey: Are We Developing Stars Or Teams? With Matt Dumouchelle

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Are we building great hockey teams or just chasing superstars way too early?In this episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, Lee Elias and Mike Bonelli are joined once again by hockey development consultant and writer Matt Dumouchelle for a deep, thoughtful, and at times uncomfortable conversation sparked by the World Junior Hockey Championship.After watching Canada eliminated by Czechia for the third straight year, Matt shared a post that stopped a lot of people in their tracks and it raised a question every hockey parent, coach, and administrator needs to hear: What if smaller hockey nations arent developing better players but better teams?With fewer resources, fewer rinks, and far fewer registered players, countries like Czechia, Finland, Sweden, and Latvia continue to punch above their weight on the world stage. Meanwhile, North America pours massive resources into identifying and developing a very small percentage of players at increasingly younger ages.This episode dives into:The difference between team development vs. early superstar identificationWhy many European models are forced to develop every kid longerThe hidden cost of early selection, constant movement, and elite labelsWhy hunger, cohesion, and shared identity still matter in modern hockeyHow youth coaches and organizations can shift focus without abandoning competitivenessWhat parents should actually expect at each age level and why benchmarks matter This is not a Canada vs. Europe debate. Its a conversation about how we grow the game, keep kids playing, and help more players reach their potential on and off the ice.If you care about development, culture, and the future of youth hockey, this ones a must-listen. Listen. Reflect. Share the conversation. Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: Are We Developing Hockey Players Too Early? Lessons from World Juniors & European Models#OurKidsPlayHockey #YouthHockey #HockeyDevelopment #WorldJuniors #TeamOverTalent #PlayerDevelopment #HockeyParents #CoachingYouthHockey #GrowTheGameClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Heading into 2026, hockey families are asking: How do we get better? More ice time isnt always realistic but smarter training is. Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace. Visit SenseArena.com/OKPH and use code OKPH to get 50% off plus $25 off an annual plan or headset bundle.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

Website: Our Kids Play Hockey