Refs are not always right,
but we're never wrong.

Chirping Zebras: A Sports and Entertainment Podcast from the Referee’s Perspective

Chirping Zebras is a sports and entertainment podcast exploring hockey, officiating, and life beyond the game. Rooted in hockey but reaching across sports, the show brings together referees, players, coaches, comedians, and broadcasters for candid conversations, behind-the-scenes stories, and plenty of laughs.

From game-changing calls and rivalries to locker-room dynamics and life after the final whistle, our guests reveal the moments you won’t see on the highlight reel.

Every ref has a story, and let’s be honest, everyone has a ref story. Whether you’re a hockey fan, or a sports official, Chirping Zebras offers a fresh perspective on the games and personalities you follow.

Limited Drop: Back by Demand!

We’re bringing back two fan-favorite pieces that aren’t available in our regular store — the Chirping Zebras Lace Hockey Hoodie and the Quarter-Zip.

  • These were first-run drops. They sold out. Fast.
  • Now they’re back — but only for a limited time.

If you missed them the first time, this is your shot. When this batch is gone, it’s gone again.

Chirping Zebras Episodes

Episode 130: Guest Greg Shepherd

College hockey officiating veteran Greg Shepherd joins Mark and Geno for a conversation packed with stories, insight, and a lifelong love of the game. Known throughout the hockey community as “Shep,” Greg brings decades of experience from both sides of the boards, as an...

Read More

Episode 129: Guest Greg Simeone

Greg Simeone joins Mark and Geno for a conversation about youth sports, the pressure to perform, and helping kids hold on to their love of the game. A longtime friend of the Zebras, Greg grew up loving hockey. His playing career included a New...

Read More

Episode 128: Guest Brad Lukowich

Two-time Stanley Cup champion Brad Lukowich joins Mark and Geno for Episode 128 of Chirping Zebras, bringing big stories, strong opinions, and contagious enthusiasm for hockey. From the NHL to youth hockey and the referee’s perspective, there’s something here for everyone who loves the...

Read More

Episode 127: Guest Mike Lalor

A Stanley Cup, six NHL teams and plenty of stories along the way. The Zebras welcome longtime NHL defenseman Mike Lalor for a conversation packed with hockey legends, championship memories and a memorable fight with Steve Yzerman. Mike’s 12-year NHL career included stops with...

Read More

Follow us on Social Media:

Mark and Bergy resized3

Show Hosts

Mark Riley and Geno Binda are former pro hockey referees. Join them and their guests as they talk hockey and give an insight into the world of hockey refereeing. 

Our sponsors we’re so grateful for! Interested in becoming a sponsor? Multiple packages are available.

Referee's Crease logo

Episode 1 Full Ride featuring Mark Riley and Geno Binda

Pat Shea wrote Full Ride which is a comedy TV show about three college hockey players navigating the college life. There will be 5 episodes. Watch the hilarious Episode 1 of Full Ride. Mark Riley and Geno Binda play the Hockey Coaches.

Mark Riley as Hockey Coach in Full Ride