Lyss Houde: Elevating Women’s Voices in Hockey Through ‘Chel Chit Chat’
Introduction
Lyss Houde has emerged as a notable voice in Manitoba’s hockey community and has recently expanded her influence through podcasting. With her new show, Chel Chit Chat, she addresses vital topics in hockey while engaging with knowledgeable industry figures.
The Birth of ‘Chel Chit Chat’
According to Houde, the podcast stems from a confluence of personal experiences and insights. “There are so many different intersections of my life that I feel have led me to this project,” she shares. Initially focused on the Winnipeg Jets, she recognized the value of discussing hockey on a broader scale. Driven by her connections within the sport, she aims to provide a platform for those eager to learn.
Podcast Content and Structure
Launched in 2024, Chel Chit Chat features episodes that revolve around interviews with industry experts. The format is designed to make hockey accessible, as Houde states, “Sometimes, hockey can be a little intimidating to learn about, and I wanted to create a space to talk about it more casually.” Each episode is titled “How to…” allowing listeners to navigate various topics like scouting or social media strategies within the sport.
Positive Reception and Community Engagement
The response to the podcast has been overwhelmingly positive. They have received numerous outreach requests from listeners wishing to participate and share their insights. “It’s been incredible, and I will never take that for granted,” Houde remarked. This growing engagement showcases a significant market for discussions that have been previously overlooked.
Insights from the First Season
Reflecting on her inaugural season, Houde gained confidence and clarity on the topics she wished to explore. Initially relying on her network for guests, she has since expanded her outreach efforts. This evolution allowed her to engage with individuals she didn’t previously know, enriching her content with diverse experiences.
Focus on Women in Sports
Houde has prioritized addressing challenges women encounter in sports. Her season two episodes focus on critical discussions such as mental health and fostering professional relationships. “It’s important to balance heavy topics with celebratory moments,” she noted. Guests like Sara Orlesky and Liz Knox have graciously contributed to enhancing the visibility of women’s contributions in hockey.
Aims and Future Aspirations
As Chel Chit Chat continues to flourish, Houde envisions it as part of a bigger brand dedicated to hockey education. She also produces short-form videos addressing common hockey misconceptions. “I want to be a resource for those eager to learn,” she explains. Her commitment is to maintain high-quality content without compromising listener engagement.
The Changing Landscape for Women in Sports
Houde believes that times are changing favorably for women in sports. She emphasizes choice and informed decision-making as vital components of this transformation, stating, “I want women to do what they love without feeling burdened by representation.” Her journey demonstrates that success in this industry can take many forms.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Despite feeling early in her career, Houde has become a source of inspiration for aspiring female broadcasters. Her journey reflects hard work and dedication, serving as a motivating force for others. “It’s a privilege to influence young women, and it validates the importance of what I am doing,” she concluded.
Future Guests and Aspirations
Looking ahead, Houde has ambitious plans for future podcast seasons. She dreams of interviewing impactful figures like Jessica Campbell, Marie-Philip Poulin, and Blake Bolden to share their perspectives on the evolution of women in hockey.
