Inside Spittin' Chiclets: The Global Phenomenon of Hockey Comedy
In the world of professional sports media, few names carry as much weight among hockey fans as Spittin' Chiclets. What began as a niche podcast has transformed into a massive multimedia empire, blending ice hockey culture with sports comedy. Produced by Barstool Sports, the show has grown from simple interviews into a global brand that influences everything from television broadcasts to the beverage industry.
The show's name is a nod to hockey slang: "spittin' chiclets" refers to the act of spitting broken teeth onto the ice after a hard blow to the mouth. This gritty, authentic connection to the sport sets the tone for a program that offers fans an unfiltered look at the lives of professional athletes.
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The Evolution of the Podcast
Spittin' Chiclets officially debuted on October 14, 2016. It was originally launched by former NHL player Ryan Whitney and Barstool hockey blogger Brian "Rear Admiral" McGonagle. The initial concept was straightforward: an "Average Joe" would interview a former NHL player to uncover the behind-the-scenes truths of professional hockey.
The show's dynamic changed significantly during its 13th episode when former NHL 4th liner Paul "Biz Nasty" Bissonnette joined as a guest host. His chemistry with the crew was so immediate that he officially joined the hosting team in April 2018. On January 14, 2025, the roster expanded further with the announcement that Keith Yandle would join the show as a full-time host.
A Growing Media Empire
The success of the podcast has propelled its hosts into major mainstream media roles. Paul Bissonnette has become a contributor for NHL on TNT, while Ryan Whitney serves as a contributor for the NHL Network. The show's influence even extends to the broadcast booth; in February 2024, the NHL on TNT aired an alternative broadcast of a Florida Panthers vs. Pittsburgh Penguins game hosted by Bissonnette and his podcast panel.
Beyond the microphone, the hosts have ventured into sports ownership. Whitney, Bissonnette, Yandle, and producer Mike Grinnell are part-owners of the new ECHL team, the Greensboro Gargoyles. They also participate in YouTube golf events, such as the Sandbagger Invitationals and the inaugural Internet Invitational, organized by Barstool Sports and Bob Does Sports.
Commercial Success and Brand Ventures
The Spittin' Chiclets brand has successfully translated its massive listener base into highly profitable consumer products. Two major ventures stand out:
- Pink Whitney Vodka: A joint venture between Barstool Sports and New Amsterdam Vodka (a label by E & J Gallo Winery). The drink was inspired by Ryan Whitney’s preference for mixing vodka with pink lemonade. It has become North America's fastest-growing flavored vodka brand, with annual sales exceeding $100 million.
- Big Deal Brewing: Launched in 2022 in partnership with Labatt, this beer venture uses the podcast's popular slogan. Their debut product, the Golden Ale, arrived on shelves in October 2022.
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Spin-offs and New Frontiers
As the brand expanded, so did its content. In October 2022, the hosts announced a monthly spin-off titled Chiclets Game Notes (originally Chiclets Etc.). Featuring former teammates Colby Armstrong and Matt Murley, the show has since evolved into a weekly program during the NHL season and a daily program during the playoffs. It features popular segments such as "Show or Minzies," "Riding the Bus," and "Beer League Heroes."
The future of the show is moving toward visual storytelling. Starting January 12, 2026, a video version of the podcast will begin airing exclusively on Netflix.
Key Facts
- Original Release: October 14, 2016.
- Primary Hosts: Ryan Whitney, Paul Bissonnette, and Keith Yandle.
- Global Reach: One of the most popular sports podcasts in the U.S. and a top 5 podcast in Canada across all genres.
- Major Product: Pink Whitney Vodka, generating over $100 million in annual sales.
- New Media: Video version scheduled for Netflix release in January 2026.
Podcast Overview Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Ice hockey, sports comedy |
| Producer | Barstool Sports |
| Main Hosts | Ryan Whitney, Paul Bissonnette, Keith Yandle |
| Typical Length | 120–200 minutes |
| Update Schedule | Tuesdays |
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name "Spittin' Chiclets" mean?
It is a slang term used in hockey to describe spitting broken teeth onto the ice after sustaining a hard blow to the mouth.
Who are the current hosts of the show?
The show is hosted by former NHL players Ryan Whitney, Paul Bissonnette, and Keith Yandle.
What is Pink Whitney Vodka?
Pink Whitney is a flavored vodka brand created through a partnership between Barstool Sports and New Amsterdam Vodka. It was inspired by host Ryan Whitney's habit of mixing vodka with pink lemonade.
Does the podcast have a spin-off?
Yes, the spin-off is called "Chiclets Game Notes," which features Colby Armstrong and Matt Murley and focuses on hockey analysis and gambling picks.
Where can I watch the video version of the podcast?
Starting January 12, 2026, the video version of the podcast will be available exclusively on Netflix.