2 Many Men On The Mic
2 Many Men on the Mic is your go-to podcast for honest, inclusive conversations about youth hockey—from 6U through 18U. Hosted by coaches and former board members Drew Acree and Jared Balint, the show shines a light on the full community: elite players, non-elite players, new coaches, committed parents (especially moms), and everyone working behind the scenes to grow the game.We’re not here to lecture—we’re here to listen, share, and support. Drew and Jared bring their real-life experiences to help others navigate the ups and downs of the youth hockey season. We’re here to grow the game, have some fun and remind our listeners that: “Hockey is more fun when you get better at it” That goes for players, parents, coaches, and refs alike.
2 Many Men On The Mic
What keeps kids playing hockey?
Use Left/Right to seek, Home/End to jump to start or end. Hold shift to jump forward or backward.
It turns out the answer isn't winning.
In this episode of 2 Many Men on the Mic, Jared and Drew explore one of the biggest challenges facing youth hockey today: keeping the game fun while still helping players develop.
The conversation begins with lessons from the Stanley Cup, coaching philosophy, and one of the hosts' favorite practice games before welcoming Dr. Adam Gledhill of Loughborough University.
Drawing from his recent international research on youth hockey, Adam explains why effort, enjoyment, positive coaching, and healthy team environments matter more than many adults realize.
Together they discuss:
• Why children value trying their best over simply winning
• The biggest contributors to player enjoyment
• Why athletes leave sports during adolescence
• "Connection Before Correction" and modern coaching
• How parents can positively shape a child's experience
• Practical ways to create hockey environments players never want to leave
If you're a coach, parent, administrator, or player who wants hockey to remain a lifelong passion, this is an episode you won't want to miss.
Enjoy the show?
Please subscribe, leave us a review, and share the episode with another hockey family. Your support helps us continue bringing conversations that make hockey more fun—and help more kids stay in the game.
Stay connected with 2 Many Men on the Mic:
📸 Follow us on Instagram
@twomanymenpodcast
🌐 Download coaching resources, drills, and practice plans
www.2manymenonthemic.com
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