Join former Seattle Sounders midfielders Steve Zakuani and Brad Evans as the two offer their insights and analysis on the Sounders, drop weekly interviews with players, coaches and other personalities in the world of soccer and beyond.
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What does it take to inspire the next generation of environmental leaders? In this episode, Steve Zakuani and Brad Evans sit down with Megan Karch, CEO of IslandWood, an innovative environmental education organization helping young people build meaningful connections with the natural world. Megan shares her journey from leading Seattle-based nonprofit FareStart to guiding IslandWood’s mission of creating transformative learning experiences for students, educators, and communities. Zak and Brad t...
In this insightful episode, Coach Brian Schmetzer provides a wide-ranging, candid conversation about the Seattle Sounders. He delves into the emotional impact of their toughest playoff loss to Minnesota, dissecting the defensive lapses that led to the defeat. Schmetzer also shares stories from the Club World Cup, highlighting interactions with elite coaches and the team's strong performance. The discussion emphasizes player development, with deep dives into Obed Vargas's potential and Christian Roldan's midfield transformation, alongside Stefan Frei's lasting legacy and the management of a challenging season schedule through advanced sports science.
Hosts Steve Zakuani and Brad Evans bring you a special Behind the Shield edition of the Sounders FC Pod-Cast, featuring powerful stories of impact both on and off the pitch. First, they sit down with Dr. Ty Jones, Medical Director at Regence, who was honored as a Community Hero at a Sounders match last season for his dedication to serving public employees and their families. Then, Sounders midfielder Paul Arriola joins the show to reflect on his road back from the ACL injury he suffered last sea...
This episode delves into the Seattle Sounders' frustrating playoff loss, featuring firsthand accounts of the dramatic 3-3 draw and chaotic penalty shootout, with detailed analysis of defensive missteps and missed opportunities. The discussion then transitions to an insightful interview with the Renton Schools Foundation, exploring their mission to enhance student education through diverse programs and vital community partnerships, including their impactful collaboration with Sounders FC to support student wellness and academic growth. The Foundation emphasizes genuine, needs-based community engagement.
Brad Evans and Steve Zakuani recap the Sounders' first two playoff matches against Minnesota United. They delve into the tactical decision to start Jordan Morris and Danny Musovski up front, analyzing its effectiveness and implications for future games. The discussion also covers Christian Roldan's national team call-up and the broader MLS playoff landscape.
This episode features two inspiring interviews: Kelly Hipchen discusses Darigold's cooperative structure, community involvement through the Dairy Dash 5K, and innovative farmer incentives for carbon reduction. Kalani Kossa-Rienzi shares his journey from college to the Sounders FC, highlighting the impact of local community support, the challenges of transitioning to professional play, and the importance of grit, consistency, and maintaining hobbies for personal balance.
This episode delves into the Seattle Sounders' playoff readiness, analyzing their recent three-game winning streak and the strategic implications of key player injuries, including Jordan Finley's timely goal and Pedro's season-ending setback. The hosts break down the playoff bracket and preview the upcoming series against Minnesota United, emphasizing the mental fortitude required for postseason success. Additionally, Patrick D'Amelio, CEO of FareStart, joins the show to share details about their culinary job training programs, significant community impact, and partnership with the Sounders, offering various ways listeners can get involved.
This episode delves into the Seattle Sounders' playoff preparations, breaking down their crucial win against Real Salt Lake and previewing the final regular-season clash with New York City FC on Decision Day. Hosts discuss tactical choices, individual player performances, and the importance of a playoff-winning mindset, analyzing potential matchups and the team's legacy. Additionally, special guest Mitsu Iwasaki from the Trust for Public Land shares how his organization expands access to green spaces, preserves public lands, and fosters community well-being and climate resilience through collaborative, community-driven projects across the Northwest.
Hosts Zak and Brad recap the Sounders' crucial 1-0 victory over the Timbers, analyzing player performances and discussing the team's historical home advantage. They then preview the upcoming Real Salt Lake match, highlighting the significant player absences and their potential impact on the lineup and playoff seeding. The episode concludes with a fascinating discussion on high-profile player retirements, including MLS star Darlington Nagbe, exploring the personal challenges and unique paths athletes take after their careers.
This episode dives into the intense Seattle vs. Portland rivalry, highlighting the high stakes for both teams in the Western Conference playoff race. The hosts analyze the Sounders' recent mixed results, discuss key player injuries and international call-ups, and review potential MLS awards. The podcast also features a special segment with Dionna Washington from STEM Paths Innovation Network, exploring their impactful STEM+Arts programs for underserved youth and ways the community can support their mission.
On this episode of Behind the Shield, Georgi Minoungou and Sabra Bryant join Brad Evans to discuss their journeys and work in the community. Georgi gives the full story on how he ended up on the Sounders, recovering and adjusting to a medical issue affecting his eye, and how he's been able to overcome what many would have considered an insurmountable obstacle. Sabra Bryant helps lead Regence BlueShield teams that deliver exceptional health care experiences for Medicare members. Her Customer Serv...
Hosts Brad Evans and Steve Zakuani delve into the Seattle Sounders' current form, analyzing tactical issues and the crucial MLS playoff picture. They discuss the impact of key player returns like Jordan and Albert, and the importance of navigating a tough remaining schedule to secure a high seed. The episode also features a critical discussion on the US Men's National Team, questioning its identity, coaching choices, and the need for a stronger work ethic as the World Cup approaches.
Steve and Brad analyze the Sounders' critical three-game stretch, including upcoming clashes with LA Galaxy and Inter Miami, emphasizing playoff positioning and lineup challenges. They provide a detailed breakdown of Jesus Ferreira's impact on the team, highlighting contributions beyond statistics. The episode also features an insightful interview with goalkeeper Andrew Thomas, who reflects on the Leagues Cup Final, his unique path from England to Stanford, his bond with Stefan Frei, and the team's evolving mental toughness and depth.
This episode recaps the Sounders' dominant 3-0 Leagues Cup win against Inter Miami, emphasizing the electric atmosphere and the team's historic achievement. It features an interview with goal-scorer Osaze De Rosario, who shares insights into his playing style, journey, and the team's championship mentality. The episode also highlights the YMCA of Snohomish County's vital role in youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, and how fans can support their inclusive community programs.
Following a dramatic penalty shootout victory against Club Puebla in the Leagues Cup, the Sounders prepare for a semi-final clash with LA Galaxy. The podcast delves into Head Coach Brian Schmetzer's consistently underrated success and the club's unique culture. Discussions also cover the team's strong form, standout player performances, and the strategic balance required for deep runs in both Leagues Cup and MLS playoffs, with a crucial match against Sporting Kansas City looming.
The podcast recaps the Seattle Sounders' dominant 4-0 victory over the LA Galaxy, detailing each of the four goals and the team's overall strong performance. Forward Danny Musovski joins the show, discussing his breakout season, how he's adapted to Seattle, and the unique winning culture of the club. The episode also previews the Sounders' playoff aspirations and upcoming matches.
This episode breaks down the Seattle Sounders' perfect Leagues Cup group stage, highlighting their commanding performances, including a 7-0 rout. The hosts debate whether these results signify a closed gap between MLS and Liga MX, and revisit Pedro de la Vega's incredible goal. Looking ahead, the discussion shifts to the Sounders' return to MLS play against the LA Galaxy, covering team injuries, tactical considerations, and the fierce competition among players.
Jeanice Hardy, Chief Officer of Programs at YWCA Seattle | King | Snohomish, details the organization's 130+ year history and "no wrong door" approach to providing comprehensive wrap-around services, from housing and employment to domestic violence support. She emphasizes meeting people where they are, fostering self-sufficiency with a "rock effect" philosophy, and highlights the importance of partnerships and community-driven solutions to achieve lasting change for families.
Sounders midfielder Albert Rusnak joins the podcast to break down his football journey and the club's performance, including insights from the Club World Cup. He shares personal reflections on adapting to different play styles and the pressure of following club legends. The episode also previews the upcoming Atlanta United match and debates the MLS All-Star Game, offering a comprehensive look at the team's current form and realistic MLS Cup aspirations.
Each Behind the Shield Community Hero is honored for their dedication to improving the health and wellness of their community. Brittany Blue will be featured on the Sounders website and was honored recently at a Sounders FC home match and met her Behind the Shield player, forward Pedro de la Vega, after the game. Brittany is Chief Marketing and Philanthropy Officer at Sound Generations , where she has dedicated more than 16 years to building relationships and community connections to ensure olde...
Brad and Steve are back this week as the Sounders return to MLS play following a solid showing in the Club World Cup. Our hosts recap a 1-1 draw to Columbus Crew, and discuss the current battles for starting spots in what may be the deepest roster in recent Sounders history. Alex Roldan joins the pod after stepping up in recent games at center back, and talks his experience learning to be versatile as well as his ability to play multiple positions. He also gives a quick play-by-play of his infam...
In this episode, Brad and Steve reflect on the Seattle Sounders' participation in the Club World Cup, analyzing their performance against top international clubs and highlighting the significance of the tournament. They discuss the team's return to MLS action, focusing on the mental shift required after playing high-intensity international games and addressing current injury concerns, particularly in defense. The hosts also delve into the Sounders' attacking options, evaluate individual player consistency, praise the potential of young midfielder Obed Vargas, and look ahead to the upcoming MLS match against Austin FC, offering a prediction. The episode concludes with thanks to Arena Sports, where the live podcast was recorded.
Steve Zakuani recaps the Sounders' recent "ugly" wins against FC Dallas and San Diego, highlighting key performances from Stef Cleveland and Jesus Ferreira. He previews crucial upcoming home matches, including a six-pointer against Minnesota United, discussing team depth, potential, and the importance of fan support for playoff seeding. The episode concludes with an interview with Elvin Bucu from the Foundation for Tacoma Students, exploring their mission, strategy for student success from cradle to career, and ways the community can get involved.
On this week's episode of the Sounders FC Pod-Cast, co-hosts Brad Evans and Steve Zakuani recap a 4-point road trip that took the Rave Green to Houston, LAFC and Portland. They discuss the busy home schedule ahead, starting with Saturday afternoon's matchup against FC Dallas, then San Diego FC on the 28th and Minnesota to open up June. Brad and Zak go through lineup options, breakdown the team's set piece success this season, and discuss how MLS has transformed into a more attacking-focused leag...
The Sounders FC podcast previews the upcoming rivalry match against the Portland Timbers, reflecting on the recent loss to LAFC and highlighting key player performances. The hosts analyze potential lineups, discuss the historical significance of the rivalry, and compare the strengths of both teams, while also praising coach Brian Schmetzer's contributions to the team's success.
This episode features Sounders FC player Obed Vargas and Michelle McDaniel, CEO of Crisis Connections. Obed discusses his early soccer experiences, family influences, and staying connected with his community. Michelle highlights the critical role of Crisis Connections in providing mental health support and the importance of community connections, urging listeners to support their mission.
Brad Evans and Steve Zakuani recap the Sounders' 3-0 win against Nashville SC and discuss team strategy moving forward. The episode features an interview with Alondra Gonzalez from Para Los Niños, highlighting their community work. They also play Over/Under and debate the greatest athletes of all time, providing insights into team dynamics and community engagement.
Brad Evans and Jackson Feltz recap the Sounders' road victory against FC Dallas, highlighting Pedro de la Vega's performance and the team's offensive potential. They discuss lineup challenges with returning players, preview the upcoming match against Nashville, and touch on Tacoma Defiance's success in the U.S. Open Cup. The episode also covers community outreach events and offers predictions for the Nashville game.
Brad Evans and Jackson Felts recap the Sounders' disappointing road loss to San Diego, highlighting issues of complacency and disjointed play. They discuss the importance of mental toughness, player health, and the potential impact of Jesus Ferreira against his former team, FC Dallas. The episode also previews the upcoming match against Dallas, emphasizing the need for a strong start and tactical adjustments, while also covering community initiatives.
In this episode of the Sounders FC Pod-Cast, Brad Evans and Steve Zakuani dissect the Sounders' frustrating 0-0 draw against the Houston Dynamo, highlighting missed opportunities and tactical shortcomings. They then shift focus to preview the upcoming road match against the San Jose Earthquakes, analyzing San Jose's recent form and discussing potential lineup changes for the Sounders. The episode also features a conversation with longtime Sounders broadcaster Michelle Ludtka, who shares insights from her career, discusses the evolution of women in sports broadcasting, and previews her new role at FOX 13.
