What the Puck Do We Do?

Danielle and Mike McDonough

What the PUCK Do We DO?! is a podcast for parents navigating youth hockey — especially those new to the rink or unsure where to start.Why is it so cold in here? Why are they playing across the ice? How does all this gear actually go on — and why are there so many kinds of tape?!If you’ve found yourself asking questions like these, you’re not alone. Youth hockey can feel overwhelming — especially when you’re new to it and everyone else seems to know what’s going on.Hosted by Danielle and Mike McDonough, the show blends decades of hockey experience (playing, coaching, and now parenting) with real-life conversations about what families actually face — from getting started on the ice, to gear and logistics, to understanding the game and navigating hockey culture. We’re also parents ourselves, juggling real life, busy schedules, and kids, and we bring that perspective into every conversation.This podcast isn’t about rushing development or creating elite athletes. It’s about helping parents support their kids in a way that keeps hockey fun, healthy, and sustainable — without unnecessary pressure or overwhelm.Whether you’re brand new to hockey or just trying to figure out what comes next, this show is here to make the journey feel a little less confusing — and a lot more manageable.

Episodes

  1. FEB 17

    What the PUCK… Do We DO?!

    Hockey can feel overwhelming when you’re new to it — whether you’re a parent navigating the rink for the first time, or an adult discovering the sport and wanting to try it for yourself, or simply someone trying to make sense of a game that seems to have its own language, rules, and culture. In this short teaser episode of What the PUCK… Do We DO?!, hosts Danielle and Mike McDonough introduce the podcast, share why they created it, and explain who the show is for. This podcast is designed to help anyone new to hockey feel more confident and grounded — from understanding the basics of skating and equipment, to making sense of leagues, practices, and gameplay — without unnecessary pressure or overwhelm. Who This Podcast Is For:Parents navigating youth hockey (particularly in the early stages)Adults discovering hockey for the first time and wanting to learn moreFamilies or individuals who feel like they missed the orientationAnyone who wants hockey to feel more understandable and enjoyable What You’ll Hear on This Podcast:Clear, beginner-friendly explanations of how hockey worksPractical guidance on gear, logistics, and rink lifeHelp understanding the game — even if you never playedHonest conversations about hockey culture, pressure, and perspective Helpful Resource:If you’re looking for a simple place to start, we’ve linked our free Starter Guide for Parents of Young Athletes in the show notes. It’s designed to help you feel more confident and supported as you navigate sports — especially if hockey is new to you or your family. 👉 Download the free guide here: https://www.ocppt.com/starter-guide What’s Coming Next:New episodes are coming soon, starting with what to know before hockey becomes hockey — and what actually matters at the beginning. Be sure to follow or subscribe so you don’t miss it. Email us at WhatThePuckDoWeDo@gmail.com with any questions!

    1 min

About

What the PUCK Do We DO?! is a podcast for parents navigating youth hockey — especially those new to the rink or unsure where to start.Why is it so cold in here? Why are they playing across the ice? How does all this gear actually go on — and why are there so many kinds of tape?!If you’ve found yourself asking questions like these, you’re not alone. Youth hockey can feel overwhelming — especially when you’re new to it and everyone else seems to know what’s going on.Hosted by Danielle and Mike McDonough, the show blends decades of hockey experience (playing, coaching, and now parenting) with real-life conversations about what families actually face — from getting started on the ice, to gear and logistics, to understanding the game and navigating hockey culture. We’re also parents ourselves, juggling real life, busy schedules, and kids, and we bring that perspective into every conversation.This podcast isn’t about rushing development or creating elite athletes. It’s about helping parents support their kids in a way that keeps hockey fun, healthy, and sustainable — without unnecessary pressure or overwhelm.Whether you’re brand new to hockey or just trying to figure out what comes next, this show is here to make the journey feel a little less confusing — and a lot more manageable.