The pod kicks off with Week 2 of listener-submitted Word Association for Elliotte, who also has an update on New Jersey’s coaching search. He and Jeff discuss the CHL lawsuit, if the culture within major junior hockey has improved and the financial implications of the case and COVID-19 for the league. 

Dan Paille joins the podcast to talk about how he got into competitive hockey, why the “Merlot Line” worked so well for the Bruins, trash talk, what he learned from playing with Mark Recchi and what he’s up to now.

Then Andrea “Dre” Barone, who spent four years in the ECHL and is the first openly gay referee in hockey, joins the show. He talks about why he came out publicly, his work with the NHL’s Kim Davis, stepping away from the game, overcoming challenges and the unintended discrimination he experienced.

“There wasn’t anything to hide anymore” by Sonny Sachdeva

Why Kurtis Gabriel is the ‘gold standard’ of LGBTQ allies in hockey by David Singh

31 Thoughts: The Podcast is presented by GMC Sierra trucks, complete with the World’s-First Six-function Multi-Pro Tailgate. GMC — we are professional grade. www.gmccanada.ca.

Music Outro: Al Campbell – Take A Ride

Listen to all our Season 3 music on Spotify.

This episode is produced and sound designed by Amil Delic, and hosted by Jeff Marek and Elliotte Friedman.

Audio Credits: Global News, MGM. and Sportsnet.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliate.