Bryant McBride on Growing the Game Through Inclusion and Opportunity

Episode Description:
In this episode of USA Hockey’s Next Generation podcast, hosts Drew Shore and Lyndsey Fry sit down with Bryant McBride, a former college player turned executive, entrepreneur, and change maker. Bryant shares his journey growing up in Sault Ste. Marie, playing collegiate hockey, and becoming the NHL’s first Black executive. The conversation examines how hockey shaped his leadership mindset and the importance of perseverance, trust, and teamwork beyond the rink. Bryant reflects on his work expanding the game globally, advancing inclusion efforts, and creating opportunities for underrepresented communities. He also discusses the legacy of Willie O’Ree, the Carnegie Initiative, and how individuals at every level can help make hockey more welcoming and accessible for all.

Key Points From This Episode:
[00:00:00] Introduction to the USA Hockey Next Gen podcast and episode focus
Note: This episode was recorded before Denver won the NCAA Men’s Ice Hockey Division I championship.

[00:01:05] Overview of Bryant McBride’s career and impact on hockey
[00:02:24] Growing up in Sault Ste. Marie and its deep hockey culture
[00:04:43] Early hockey development and competitive environment in youth hockey
[00:06:40] College hockey journey from West Point to Trinity College
[00:07:39] Lessons from hockey including perseverance, teamwork, and trust
[00:10:29] Focus on education and using hockey as a pathway to opportunity
[00:13:15] Becoming the NHL’s first Black executive and initial perspective
[00:14:30] Commitment to growing the game and creating opportunities for others
[00:16:19] Discovering Willie O’Ree’s story and bringing him back into the NHL
( Note: The Congressional Gold Medal ceremony for Willie O’Ree has been delayed.)

[00:18:37] Building NHL inclusion initiatives and expanding the game’s reach
[00:20:49] Developing grassroots programs and partnerships across North America
[00:22:39] Founding the Carnegie Initiative and honoring hockey’s overlooked history
[00:24:30] Producing films to share stories and scale impact beyond the rink
[00:27:59] Practical ways individuals can make hockey more inclusive
[00:30:57] Role with USA Hockey Foundation and expanding access to the sport
[00:33:20] Importance of leadership and addressing difficult conversations
[00:36:41] Favorite playing memory and reflections on career
[00:37:44] One-word vision for the future of hockey: inclusive
[00:38:06] Influential leaders and the importance of learning from history
[00:41:08] Hosts reflect on key takeaways and personal impact of the conversation
[00:44:40] Final thoughts on continuing to grow the game and expand opportunity

Links:
USA Hockey - ⁠⁠usahockey.com
Drew Shore - ⁠drewshore.com
Lindsey Fry - ⁠⁠fryhockey.com/%E2%81%A0