5 NHL Legends Who Left Their Mark on Our Kids Play Hockey

Celebrating 400 Episodes with Stories That Still Resonate

Reaching 400 episodes is no small feat—and at Our Kids Play Hockey, we wanted to honor this milestone with something special: a “best of” series that celebrates the wisdom, heart, and powerful voices that have shaped our show.

To kick things off, we looked back at five unforgettable NHL guests who’ve left a lasting impression—not just for what they accomplished on the ice, but for the life lessons they shared off of it. These are more than highlight reels; they’re conversations that stay with you, challenge you, and make you better—whether you're a parent, coach, or player.

1. Bryan Trottier – "Grab the Rope"

Legacy: 7-time Stanley Cup Champion, NHL Hall of Famer
Episode Highlight: Ride to the Rink

Trottier brings more than hardware to the conversation. With roots in a small Saskatchewan town and deep ties to Indigenous communities, he speaks about unity and purpose with remarkable clarity.

“Even though we come from different backgrounds... we all have something to bring to the table.”

His message: true success happens when every team member, no matter their background, commits to pulling in the same direction.

Why revisit this episode?
It’s a powerful meditation on humility, identity, and legacy from one of hockey’s most respected voices.

2. Mike Keenan – Coaching with Compassion

Legacy: Stanley Cup & Gagarin Cup-winning coach
Episode Highlight: The Art and Science of Coaching

Known as “Iron Mike,” Keenan was revered (and feared) for his intensity. But in this revealing episode, he opens up about the emotional intelligence behind great coaching—especially in the wake of tragedy.

“Sometimes you have to be firm. Sometimes you have to be encouraging and coddling.”

Why revisit this episode?
It redefines toughness and reminds coaches that empathy isn’t weakness—it’s leadership.

3. Chris Therien – What's Wrong with Youth Hockey?

Legacy: Former NHL Defenseman, Hockey Analyst
Episode Highlight: What’s Wrong with Youth Hockey?

Chris “Bundy” Therien doesn’t pull punches. He takes on youth hockey’s commercialism, misplaced priorities, and pressures—and challenges parents and coaches to get back to the “why.”

“They should be playing because it’s fun. That’s number one.”

Why revisit this episode?
It’s a wake-up call and a reset button for any adult who’s forgotten what youth hockey is really about.

4. Steve Valiquette – Training the Goalie Mind

Legacy: NHL Goaltender, Goalie Analyst
Episode Highlight: Goalie Development and Mental Toughness

Valiquette delivers a masterclass on goalie development with a big emphasis on simulating game pressure and training the mental game.

“You have to put players in a position where everything feels like a game… now we’re competing.”

Why revisit this episode?
It’s essential listening for goalie parents and coaches—and anyone who wants to understand how pressure shapes performance.

5. Danny Briere – The Quiet Hockey Dad

Legacy: NHL Veteran, GM of the Philadelphia Flyers
Episode Highlight: Danny Briere, Hockey Dad

In one of the most heartwarming episodes, Briere opens up about his favorite role: watching his sons play hockey—not as an NHLer or GM, but simply as a dad.

“I liked watching kind of by myself, making my own opinion.”

Why revisit this episode?
It’s a gentle but profound reminder that sometimes, the best thing we can give our kids is quiet support from the stands.

Final Whistle: What These Episodes Teach Us

Across generations and styles, these NHL legends share a common thread: hockey is more than a game. It’s about connection, growth, and finding meaning—on and off the ice.

Whether you’re new to the podcast or a long-time listener, go back and revisit these powerful conversations. Share them with your team. Listen with your kids. Reflect on your own journey through the game.

We’re just getting started—and we’re grateful to have you with us.

🎧 Listen. Share. Grow. And as always—have fun, skate hard, and enjoy the game of hockey.