🍂 A Season of Thanks — and Hockey!

As families across the country gather for turkey, stuffing, and time together, the Our Kids Play Hockey crew is doing what they do best — sharing stories, laughter, and a whole lot of gratitude with their hockey family.

In this year’s Thanksgiving special, hosts Lee Elias, Christie Casciano-Burns, and Mike Bonelli take a moment to pause the busy rink life and reflect on how far this community has come since the show’s debut five years ago.

What started as three hockey parents with microphones has grown into a global community of listeners in dozens of countries — a top-25 podcast celebrating youth hockey, family, and the life lessons this game teaches.

🏆 Five Years of Growth, Gratitude, and Great Guests

“Five years ago, we had no idea where this would go,” Christie recalls. “To know we’ve reached so many families and helped parents navigate the hockey journey — that’s the most rewarding part.”

From Hall of Fame coaches and Olympians to passionate parents and rising young players, the podcast has hosted guests who’ve shared stories that inspire, educate, and unite the hockey world.

Mike adds, “My own education as a coach has grown so much because of the people we’ve had on. This platform has brought the hockey world to us.”

Lee echoes the sentiment, thanking the community that’s made it all possible. “It’s the listeners who built this space. Every time someone stops us and says, ‘Hey, I heard that episode,’ it reminds us why we started this.”

🙌 Behind the Mic: The People Who Make It Happen

This Thanksgiving, the hosts made sure to spotlight their behind-the-scenes heroes —
🎙️ Katelynn, the “glue” who keeps the show organized, connected, and thriving;
🎧 Xavier, the editor who polishes every episode to perfection;
🏒 Haley Scamurra, balancing her pro and Olympic career with co-hosting Our Girls Play Hockey.

It’s a reminder that just like youth hockey, every great team depends on the people who support, organize, and believe in the mission.

🛒 The Holiday Rush and Hockey Reality

No hockey Thanksgiving would be complete without a nod to the other part of the season — the shopping rush and tournament chaos.

Between the Wraparound Roundtable Giveaway and the whirlwind of youth hockey travel, the hosts know that calm weekends are rare — and that’s okay. “If you have a weekend off, enjoy it,” Lee jokes. “You’ve earned it.”

💬 A Message from the Rink to Your Family Table

As this episode reminds us, hockey isn’t just about the game — it’s about community, connection, and character. From local rinks to national teams, from first-time parents to seasoned coaches, Our Kids Play Hockey continues to unite families who share a love for the sport and a commitment to raising strong, resilient kids.

So, as you carve the turkey (or pack the hockey bag for another tournament weekend), take a moment to reflect on the people who make it all possible — your kids, coaches, teammates, and yes… your podcast hosts who are cheering right alongside you.

🦃 From Our Rink to Yours — Happy Thanksgiving!

The Our Kids Play Hockey family is thankful for you — the listeners, players, parents, and coaches who make this community so special. Here’s to another season of learning, laughter, and love for the game.

🎧 Catch the full Thanksgiving episode on all podcast platforms, and join the conversation at OurKidsPlayHockey.com