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https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLxONuw60a0sJXul6nw7-lmlyjgB-lkn5C&si=nqCc-4aNAl6ZsKidThe legendary Stephen R. Bissette joins Chris and Steven us for a CRYB! interview discussion spanning the breadth of his historic career as a writer, artist, editor, and publisher. Topics covered include SWAMP THING, TABOO, the Kubert School, and countless other things, all on the occasion of the first-ever collection of Bissette's landmark indie classic, TYRANT (1994, Spiderbaby Grafix). Lighthouse Press and its publisher, Chris Stevens, have just launched a Kickstarter campaign to bring this magnificent work back into print, with the help of design guru extraordinaire, Jim Rugg! Everybody, please go and support this Kickstarter here…https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/comicslighthouse/bissette-tyrant-deluxe-editions…and enjoy our nearly three-hour discussion with one of the true living legends of the comic book art form!COMICS ROT YOUR BRAIN! is a deep dive into ‘80s comics (plus a few notable exceptions). In this weekly podcast, screenwriters Steven Bagatourian (AMERICAN GUN) and Christopher Derrick (STAR TREK: PICARD) discuss their favorite books, runs, and creators from the Bronze Age.STEPHEN R. BISSETTE Interview! Tyrant, Swamp Thing, Taboo, Kubert School, and More!SHOWNOTES/TIMESTAMPS
Get ready to protect your sticks and your wallet this holiday season! In this special episode, Lee Elias shares a limited-time deal from Hockey Wraparound, the industry leader in off-ice stick protection. For four days only, you can get 25% off all Wraparound and Green Biscuit products—no code needed! Learn how this family-owned business is helping players train smarter and save money, and how supporting it helps keep Our Kids Play Hockey going strong.
This week on The Wraparound Roundtable, we kick off the official 2025 season with content creator and rising hockey influencer Kazxi — and trust us, this episode is an inspiration for hockey dreamers of all ages.
Welcome back to The Wraparound Roundtable – our annual celebration of the hockey community through giveaways, gratitude, and a glimpse behind the scenes of the creators who shape your kids' hockey universe.
What good is hard work if you lose the joy that got you started? Former pro goalie Paul Cohen knows that hustle alone isn't enough to truly succeed — in sports, business, or life. In this episode, he shares what his experience on the ice, in corporate, and as a coach taught him about leading a team and building a culture of trust. We also dive into how his coaching philosophy has changed, his "work hard but have fun" motto, and what parents need to know about helping their kids reach the next level in hockey. Topics discussed: Introduction (00:00) Paul's hockey and coaching career (01:25) “Work hard and have fun” coaching philosophy (06:09) The story behind Ultimate Hockey Fans (09:08) 3 pillars of building a trusting team culture (13:03) Why routines are crucial for success (15:25) What it takes to move up in hockey (18:41) Why fun matters at every level of sport (21:39) The inspiration for Twig and Biscuit (22:58) Paul's 2025-26 hockey season predictions (26:37) What brought you JOY today? (28:02) Resources: Mitlin Financial: https://www.mitlinfinancial.com/ The JOY and Productivity Journal by Lawrence Sprung: https://www.amazon.com/JOY-Productivity-Journal-brought-mindset/dp/B0CYQFYW54/ Download Your Free Copy of the Couple's JOYful Money Guide: https://mitlin.us/CouplesJOY Connect with Larry Sprung: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawrencesprung/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/larry_sprung/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LawrenceDSprung/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/Lawrence_Sprung Connect with Paul Cohen: Twig and Biscuit Instagram: https://instagram.com/twigandbiscuit_hky/ Ultimate Hockey Fans Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Ultimatehockeyfans/ Twig and Biscuit Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Twig-Biscuit-Hockey/61577412381528/ Ultimate Hockey Fans Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UltimateHockeyFans/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rink-rats-publishing/ Ultimate Hockey Fans YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ultimatehockeyfans8709 Twig and Biscuit Website: https://twigbiscuit.com/ Ultimate Hockey Fans Website: https://ultimatehockeyfans.com/ About Our Guest: Paul Cohen is a semi-retired, performance-driven sales professional with over 15 years of experience at PepsiCo, where he thrived in fast-paced, high-volume environments. Renowned for his creative leadership and consistent success in achieving company objectives, Paul built an outstanding track record in cultivating new business, generating sales, driving marketing initiatives, and fostering exceptional customer relationships. His expertise in analyzing and solving complex business challenges, combined with his unwavering commitment to honesty, integrity, and responsiveness, has set him apart as a trusted leader and partner. Beyond his corporate career, Paul is the founder of Ultimate Hockey Fans and Balanced2Day, an award-winning author; Twig & Biscuit: Learn to Play Hockey and a former professional hockey player -11-year career and was the first goalie in AHL history to score a goal. He has owned and operated Goalie and Hockey camps across North America and Europe, sharing his passion for the sport and mentoring the next generation of athletes. One of the most fun ways that I have ever shared my love for hockey is co-writing Twig & Biscuit: Learn to Play Hockey with my co-author Lee Elias and starting our own publishing company, Rink Rats Publishing. It is the perfect welcome gift for new hockey players, helping them feel confident and excited about the game. This book makes the transition into the youth hockey world fun and easy through an engaging story, step-by-step dressing instructions, and an equipment vocabulary section. Disclosure: Guests on the Mitlin Money Mindset are not affiliated with CWM, LLC, and opinions expressed herein may not be representative of CWM, LLC. CWM, LLC is not responsible for the guest's content linked on this site. This episode was produced by Podcast Boutique https://www.podcastboutique.com
In this week's episode of Our Kids Play Goalie, Lee Elias, Christy Casciano-Burns, and Mike Bonelli welcome a true icon in women's hockey—Sami Jo Small, three-time Olympian, two-time gold medalist, and a lifelong advocate for inclusion, purpose, and team unity.From being the only girl on the street in Winnipeg playing road hockey with her brother's friends, to starting in net for Team Canada, Sami's path wasn't just unconventional—it was groundbreaking.We explore:Her early days as “the girl goalie” and how inclusion, support, and street hockey shaped her identity.Why playing in boys' leagues taught her resilience—and what we can all learn from being “different” on the team.What her parents got right about letting her play—and how small decisions from adults can shape a child's future.Stanford, mechanical engineering, and club hockey on a men's team—how she kept joy in the game without the pressure of being seen.How she made Team Canada almost by accident, thanks to a chance meeting, a bold leap of faith, and one coach who believed in her.How it felt to be told she wouldn't start in the 2002 Olympic gold medal game—and how that moment shaped her understanding of roles, leadership, and humility.The myth of the “one goalie system” and how goalies can and should support each other.What it really means to be part of a championship team—and how we can teach this to our kids now, at every level of youth hockey.Why joy—not ambition—should drive a young athlete's development.Her daughter's decision to leave hockey and how Sami learned to support a completely different kind of journey.This episode is a masterclass in humility, perspective, and purpose. Whether you're raising a goalie, coaching one, or are one, Sami's story will change the way you see the game—and the people in it.
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.
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 good teammate, and embracing the journey of the game.From celebrating the little moments on the ice to the lasting impact of team pride, Matt offers advice for players on focusing less on pressure and more on gratitude and enjoyment. Parents and young skaters alike will gain insights into how the best programs cultivate passion and community—and how individual players can build on those lessons at any level.Plus, hear why a good attitude and team-first mentality often outweigh raw talent when coaches make their decisions, and learn how finding joy in hockey today will create lasting memories tomorrow.
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 development, and the broader effects of the “youth sports industry” on families and players.
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 take immediate steps toward improvement, ensuring that future success is built on today's efforts.Key Discussion Points- Resetting and Reflecting on the Hockey Season- Setting New Goals and Focusing on Improvement- Taking Action in the Present Moment- Encouragement and Support for Listeners--Click To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey has been honored with a nomination for the 2025 Hockey Podcast of the Year at the Sports Podcast Awards!To support us in winning this prestigious award again, we're asking for your vote. It's a simple process – just head over to https://www.sportspodcastgroup.com/sports_category/best-hockey-podcast/ and fill out the form!Thank you for your support!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
Are you maximizing your practice sessions to their full potential? Discover how adopting a "Practice Like You Play" philosophy can transform your performance on the ice. This episode of The Ride To The Rink explores the critical importance of approaching practice with the same intensity and mindset as a game. Lee Elias and Mike Bonelli emphasize the need for proper warm-ups, highlighting that preparation for practice is just as vital as for games due to its continuous nature. They also discuss the benefits of maintaining a competitive mindset during practice, encouraging players to compete hard against teammates and play to the whistle. The conversation covers deliberate practice techniques, focusing on specific skills like shooting, backchecking, and puck handling with game-like intensity. Additionally, they warn against the consequences of poor practice habits and how they can negatively impact game performance. Whether you're a player or a coach, this episode offers valuable insights to elevate your practice sessions.--Key Discussion Points- Practice Like You Play Philosophy- Importance of Proper Warm-up- Competitive Mindset in Practice- Deliberate Practice Techniques- Consequences of Poor Practice Habits--Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team! We're powered by NHL Sense Arena!NHL Sense Arena, is a virtual reality training game designed specifically to improve hockey sense and IQ for both players and goalies. Experience the next generation of off-ice training in VR with over 100+ drills and training plans curated from top coaches and players.Use Code "HockeyNeverStops" at Hockey.SenseArena.com to score $50 off an annual plan!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
Are you ready to transform your approach to your hockey development? Discover the power of patience and perseverance in this engaging episode of "The Ride To The Rink." Ken Martel and Lee Elias explore the essential mindset shifts needed for players to thrive on and off the ice. They discuss the critical role of coaches in fostering a supportive environment and the importance of maintaining a positive attitude, even on tough days. Whether you're a player, coach, or parent, this episode of The Ride To The Rink offers valuable insights to enhance your hockey experience.--Key Discussion Points- Importance of Patience in Hockey Development- Strategies for Building Perseverance- Coach's Role in Player Development- Mindset for Improvement- Belief and Enjoyment in Hockey--Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Hockey Wraparound checked with their lawyers to bring you this deal—seriously! Buy any Hockey Wraparound on hockeywraparound.com and get a competitors' blade protector FREE (while supplies last).
Are you already feeling the pressure of the season? This episode of "Our Kids Play Hockey" offers essential tips to help parents manage anxiety and enjoy the game. Lee Elias and Mike Bonelli discuss the common tendency of parents to hyper-focus on their own child, often leading to unnecessary stress. They emphasize the importance of viewing the game from a broader perspective, understanding that youth hockey is about development over the season, not just individual games. The conversation also touches on the balance between competitiveness and kindness, and how parents can create a supportive environment for their kids. Whether you're a seasoned hockey parent or new to the rink, this episode provides valuable insights to help you and your child thrive this hockey season.Key Discussion PointsTips to Manage Anxiety During the Hockey Season- Awareness of Focus- Understanding Parental Perspective - Macro View of Development- Encouraging Fun and Enjoyment- Handling Mistakes Constructively- Role of Influential Parents- Avoiding Over-Involvement- Gratitude and Perspective- Goalie Parents' Unique Challenges- Collective Experience- Life Lessons Through HockeyText The Our Kids Play Hockey Team! We're powered by NHL Sense Arena!NHL Sense Arena, is a virtual reality training game designed specifically to improve hockey sense and IQ for both players and goalies. Experience the next generation of off-ice training in VR with over 100+ drills and training plans curated from top coaches and players.Use Code "HockeyNeverStops" at Hockey.SenseArena.com to score $50 off an annual plan!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
In this episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, Lee Elias and Mike Bonelli tackle the intense pressures young athletes face. Inspired by a letter from a concerned parent, they explore how pressures from coaches, parents, and scouts impact youth hockey players.Lee and Mike begin by discussing what pressure means for kids and adults in the sport. They share real-world examples that highlight the emotional toll these pressures can have on young players. The discussion focuses on recognizing when pressure becomes harmful and how to manage it.Key takeaways include the importance of building trust and understanding each player's unique motivations. Effective communication is essential for alleviating pressure and fostering a supportive environment. Lee and Mike offer actionable advice for coaches and parents, emphasizing the importance of choosing organizations and coaches who prioritize player development.The episode also explores the roles of those involved in player development, stressing that coaches shape young minds, and parents must balance pushing their kids while understanding their limits. Misconceptions about scouts are challenged, revealing that character and consistent effort often outweigh raw talent.This episode underscores the invaluable life lessons learned in youth hockey—lessons that prepare players for challenges beyond the rink. Whether you're a coach, parent, or scout, you'll find practical tips to help create a positive environment for young athletes.Key Takeaways:Understanding Pressure: Recognize when pressure becomes harmful to support both development and enjoyment of the game.Building Trust: Establish trust with players from day one. Coaches should understand each player's motivations to foster a supportive environment.Parental Guidance: Frame challenges as growth opportunities rather than sources of stress.Scouting Realities: Scouts value character and work ethic as much as on-ice performance.Lifelong Lessons: Youth hockey's ultimate goal is to develop well-rounded individuals who handle life's pressures with resilience.Join the conversation! Share your thoughts or stories by emailing us at team@ourkidsplayhockey.com or connecting with us on our Facebook group, Our Kids Play Hockey. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and share it with others who might benefit.We Want To Hear From You - Click Here To Leave Us Fan Mail!
In this insightful episode of Our Girls Play Hockey, hosts Lee Elias, Mike Bonelli, and Sheri Hudspeth are joined by hockey legend Megan Bozek to tackle a question many parents and young female athletes face: “How long should girls play boys' hockey?”Megan, a decorated Team USA member and Olympic medalist, shares her personal journey from playing boys' hockey until the 8th grade to making the switch to girls' hockey. She delves into the challenges and benefits of both environments, offering invaluable advice for parents and players navigating this crucial decision.The episode covers essential topics such as the importance of development in youth hockey, the role of parents in supporting their daughters through transitions, and the key questions to ask when determining whether to continue in boys' hockey or move to an all-girls team. Megan also highlights the changing landscape of girls' hockey, including the opportunities available in showcases and college recruitment, and the social aspects that can influence a player's decision.Whether you're a parent, coach, or player, this episode provides a comprehensive look at the factors that go into making the best decision for a young female athlete's hockey career. Megan's experience and wisdom offer guidance that is both practical and inspiring.Tune in to learn more about when the right time might be for girls to switch from boys' hockey and how to make the most of every opportunity on the ice.Key Discussion Points:•The benefits and challenges of playing boys' hockey vs. girls' hockey.•The role of development and how it impacts long-term success in hockey.•Questions parents and players should consider when deciding whether to switch to girls' hockey.•The importance of being seen in showcases for college recruitment.•How to maintain a positive and supportive environment for young female athletes.We Want To Hear From You - Click Here To Leave Us Fan Mail!Follow Us On Social Media: Facebook Group: Our Kids Play Hockey X: @OKPHpodcast Instagram: @OurKidsPlayHockey LinkedIn: Our Kids Play Hockey YouTube: Our Kids Play Hockey
In this inspiring episode of “Our Kids Play Hockey,” hosts Lee Elias and Mike Bonelli sit down with NHL legend & Hall of Famer Bryan Trottier. With seven Stanley Cups to his name—six as a player and one as a coach—Trottier shares his journey from a small town in Saskatchewan to the pinnacle of hockey success. He opens up about his commitment to honoring his First Nation heritage and the vital work he does to grow the game in Indigenous communities across Canada.Trottier discusses the resilience and pride of these communities, the role hockey plays in building character, and the importance of inclusivity in the sport. This episode offers valuable insights into how hockey can shape not just players but whole communities. Be sure to check out the powerful documentary “Hockey First Nation” mentioned in this episode, which follows Bryan on his mission to highlight the life-changing impact of hockey in Indigenous communities. View the documentary here: https://youtu.be/E_cE_D3mhl8. We Want To Hear From You - Click Here To Leave Us Fan Mail!
Neil Smith and Vic Morren are joined by Philadelphia Flyers' President of Hockey Operations, Keith Jones, and championship team-building expert, Lee Elias, to discuss team building and culture in the NHL. Jones shares his experiences with the Flyers and emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive team culture. The episode also features insights from Lee Elias, CEO of Hockey Wraparound, on the significance of team dynamics and leadership. The hosts explore how effective team building and thoughtful management strategies can lead to success in the NHL.IN THIS EPISODE: [00:37] Hosts Catch Up on Summer Activities[01:22] Interview with Keith Jones of the Philadelphia Flyers[03:29] Keith Jones on Becoming a Grandfather[04:51] Challenges and Strategies for the Flyers[08:14] Expectations for Matvei Michkov[12:30] Flyers' Goaltending Situation[17:59] Keith Jones' Broadcasting Career and Advice[20:29] Introduction to Lee Elias Game 7 Group[29:19] Collaborative Leadership in Hockey Operations[29:40] Building a Competitive Team Without Hitting Rock Bottom[30:05] The Importance of Communication and Analytics[31:16] Recognizing and Balancing Noise vs. News[32:06] Identifying Red Flags and Key Indicators in Team Culture[32:43] The Role of Leadership in Building Team Culture[36:16] The Impact of Ownership on Team Culture[39:42] Youth Hockey and Emphasizing Team and Culture Building[43:33] Philadelphia Sports Fans[50:48] Building a Stanley Cup Winning Team KEY TAKEAWAYS: Keith Jones emphasizes the importance of working closely with all members of the team, from the coaching staff to the players, ensuring that everyone's voice is heard in the decision-making process.Both Keith and Lee stress that a winning culture is a living entity that needs constant attention. Success in professional sports often starts with a strong, positive culture that resonates throughout the organization.Keith highlights how crucial it is to develop not just skilled hockey players, but also strong, well-rounded individuals, starting from youth hockey programs.The discussion touches on the demanding yet passionate nature of Philadelphia sports fans and how their expectations influence the way the Flyers operate. RESOURCE LINKS Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgBj1LV0-DMfBhcRPSJZLjAX: https://twitter.com/NHLWraparoundNeil Smith: https://twitter.com/NYCNeilVic Morren: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vic-morren-7038737/NHL Wraparound Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/nhlwraparound/NHL Wraparound Tik Tok:https://www.tiktok.com/@nhlwraparoundNHL Wraparound Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555451139787SPONSORSHIP:MeiGray is your source for Game-Worn jerseys. Head to MeiGray.com to get your collection started today. Get real, get it from MeiGray.https://www.MeiGray.com/https://MeiGrayauctions.com/NHL Wraparound guests can take 10 percent off any hockey jersey when they order at meigray.com and use the COUPON CODE WRAP10GAME 7 GROUP- www.gamesevengroup.com/nhlwraparoundAt Game Seven Group, we specialize in transforming individuals into cohesive teams through our team-building events, coaching, and speaking. We believe every team has the potential to achieve extraordinary results.BIO:Keith Jones is a Canadian former professional ice hockey player. He was a hockey studio analyst for...