Our Top-5 Episodes For Youth Hockey Parents & What They Reveal About Support That Actually Helps

Navigating youth hockey as a parent can be a rollercoaster of emotions, decisions, and commitments. From tryouts to post-game car rides, your role is pivotal in shaping your child's hockey experience. In celebration of 400 episodes, the Our Kids Play Hockey podcast curated their top five episodes that hockey parents repeatedly return to for clarity, support, and sanity.

These standout episodes offer practical advice, grounded perspectives, and a reminder of why we started this journey in the first place.

1. The Truth About Tryouts & Evaluations

Tryouts are stressful—for kids and parents alike. In this episode, the hosts dismantle common myths surrounding youth hockey tryouts and offer realistic insights into what coaches truly look for. The takeaway? Your child is being evaluated all year, not just in a few intense sessions.

Key Advice:

• Keep pressure low, especially for young players.

• Don't fixate on being "first in line" during drills.

• Focus on development over time, not one-time performance.

Pro Tip: Tell younger kids it's just another practice. Let them have fun without added stress.

2. Danny Briere on Parenting from the Stands

Flyers GM Danny Briere shares his perspective not as a hockey executive, but as a hockey dad. He discusses the value of watching quietly from afar, forming his own opinions, and staying emotionally grounded.

What Stands Out:

• Less is more when it comes to sideline involvement.

• Silent support can be incredibly powerful.

• Resist being influenced by the chatter around you.

Parenting Gold: Sometimes, presence without commentary is the best support you can offer.

3. The Car Ride Is Not for Coaching

Few moments are more emotionally charged than the car ride home. This episode explores the harm of post-game critiques and offers a healthier way to connect.

Better Alternatives:

• Listen before speaking.

• Let your child lead the conversation.

• Avoid comparisons to other players.

Lee's Insight: "They have a right to that time." Make space for your child to process and decompress on their terms.

4. Three Things to Say Before They Step on the Ice

Short but incredibly impactful, this episode delivers three simple yet powerful phrases every parent can say to build confidence and joy.

Lee's Favorite Phrase: "No matter what happens on the ice today, I’m still going to love you."

Why It Matters:

• Eliminates fear of failure.

• Sets a tone of emotional safety.

• Encourages independence and confidence.

Must-Listen: This is the podcast’s most listened-to episode—and for good reason.

5. Managing Screen Time with Larissa Mills

Cognitive behavioral specialist Larissa Mills breaks down the serious impact of screen time on focus, learning, and performance.

Eye-Opening Stats:

• Average teens spend over 22,000 hours on screens by age 16.

• Screen time directly impacts GPA, attention, and long-term memory.

What Parents Can Do:

• Create screen routines.

• Audit your child's feed for positive content.

• Educate them on how to use technology for growth.

Big Message: Make tech serve your family’s energy, not drain it.

Final Thoughts: Go Back, Re-listen, and Share

These five episodes are more than just audio content—they’re lifelines for parents striving to support their kids with intention and love. Whether you’re grappling with tryouts or the mental health challenges of modern tech, there's something here to help.

Take Action:

• Revisit your favorite episode.

• Share one with your team group chat.

• Reflect on how you're supporting your child's journey.

Hockey isn't just about goals and games. It's about growing together. Keep showing up, keep learning, and we’ll see you next time on Our Kids Play Hockey.