Join us for an in-depth exploration with Stewart Mairs, whose diverse career spans elite soccer management and performance analysis. From his early role as General Manager at Richard Branson's Virgin Active Gyms, Stewart transitioned to Prozone Sports in the UAE, where he honed his expertise in performance analysis and learned to navigate different cultural contexts. At US Soccer, he played a pivotal role in analyzing games and nurturing young talent, contributing to the US Women's National Team...
Aug 03, 2024•1 hr 21 min•Season 1Ep. 49
In this episode, we explore the remarkable journey of Brian Crookham, General Manager of Rapids 2 and Senior Director of Soccer Development at Colorado Rapids. Brian shares his path from a high school coach in Oklahoma to a key figure in the Rapids organization, driven by his passion for the beautiful game. He discusses the evolution of the Rapids' youth development system, emphasizing education, communication, and creating pathways for young players to reach the First Team. Brian also reflects ...
Jul 27, 2024•50 min•Season 1Ep. 48
In Episode 47, join us for an in-depth conversation with Brett M. Johnson, the visionary CEO of Benevolent Capital. Discover how Brett's passion for soccer has fueled his ambitious projects, from the creation of $100M+ soccer-specific stadiums as Chairman of Rhode Island FC to his pursuit of Premier League promotions with Ipswich Town FC. Hear about his transformative impact on Phoenix Rising FC, where he shares the captivating story behind the idea to bring a team to Phoenix and the inspiration...
Jul 20, 2024•48 min•Season 1Ep. 47
In episode 46 of The Insider's Lounge, we explore the journey of Alan McCann, Technical Director and Assistant Coach for Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC. From playing street football in Dublin to coaching professionally in the US, Alan shares his inspiring story. He reflects on his family's influence, his transition from Ireland to American collegiate soccer, and his successful coaching career, including roles at the collegiate and semi-professional levels. Alan delves into his coaching philosop...
Jul 14, 2024•1 hr 19 min•Season 1Ep. 46
In Episode 45 of The Insider's Lounge, we dive into the remarkable journey of Guilherme Henry, Technical Director of One Knoxville Collective SC. From a young man arriving as a student-athlete in rural North Carolina, unable to speak English, to becoming nationally recognized in USL 2, Guilherme's story is one of passion and perseverance. He shares his diverse coaching experiences, holistic approach to player development, and the blend of Brazilian flair and American ambition that defines his ca...
Jul 06, 2024•1 hr 11 min•Season 1Ep. 45
In episode 44, we sit down with Travis Thomas, founder of Live Yes, And, to explore the profound impact of adopting a "Yes, And" mentality. Travis shares his journey from Flint, Michigan, to becoming a highly sought-after performance coach by some of the most prominent organizations in the world. Discover how the principles of improvisation can revolutionize your approach to challenges, enhance team dynamics, and unlock your full potential. Travis delves into his experiences working with elite o...
Jun 29, 2024•1 hr 15 min•Season 1Ep. 44
In Episode 43, explore Chris Robinson's remarkable journey from managing grassroots football to shaping Chelsea FC into the world's leading academy. With a background managing clubs like Atherstone United FC and Cheltenham Town FC, Chris's career took a pivotal turn when his work with an international sports charity led to his role at Chelsea, where he spent over 12 years as Head of Integration Recruitment and Integration Scouting. Now serving as local recruitment manager at Southampton FC and f...
Jun 22, 2024•1 hr 14 min•Season 1Ep. 43
In Episode 42, join us for an in-depth exploration of Japanese football with FIFA Licensed Agent and PFSA Certified Scout, Natalie Marx. Discover how Natalie’s self-taught Japanese skills and deep cultural immersion have shaped her unique insights into Japan’s football industry. From the technical prowess and discipline of Japanese players to the rich history and future ambitions of Japanese football, Natalie shares captivating stories and key lessons from her experiences. Learn about the challe...
Jun 15, 2024•57 min•Season 1Ep. 42
In this episode, we dive into a groundbreaking conversation with Tim Chase, the visionary founder of Striver. Striver is an innovative social media platform designed to eliminate abuse and foster a positive environment for users, including footballers, celebrities, and influencers. Tim shares his journey, how he became business partners with two World Cup winners, the challenges faced with traditional social media, and the success story of Striver. We also explore work-life balance, modern educa...
Jun 08, 2024•43 min•Season 1Ep. 41
In this episode, journey into the dynamic world of football with Andre Velloso, Flamengo's multifaceted Scout and Data Analyst. Unravel Andre's journey, from his playing days growing up to his unwavering focus on education and continuous learning, shaping his path in the sport. Explore his transformative experiences coaching a girls' team in Southeast Asia, marked by unforgettable moments etched into his memory. Discover how Andre's passion for learning languages intertwines with his career aspi...
Jun 01, 2024•1 hr 11 min•Season 1Ep. 40
In Episode 39, delve into Rachel Comfort's captivating journey as a data and video analyst for Bay FC. Rachel shares insights from her early soccer memories to her current role, emphasizing the importance of hands-on learning and her diverse sports background in shaping her expertise. She discusses her day-to-day responsibilities, including training and match analysis, and highlights the challenges and rewards of working in a new club environment, stressing the vital role of effective communicat...
May 25, 2024•56 min•Season 1Ep. 39
In Episode 38, we explore the inspiring journey of Gabriel Glavan, who transitioned from a passionate Football Manager gamer to a prominent European sporting director. Gabriel shares how his early love for football, sparked by attending matches with his father, led him to pursue a career in football scouting and analysis despite not having a professional playing background. He discusses his initial break with Otelul Galati, achieving success with FC Voluntari, and pioneering Romania's first scou...
May 18, 2024•1 hr 4 min•Season 1Ep. 38
In Episode 37, delve into the captivating journey of Brendan Shaw, Assistant Coach of the Vancouver Whitecaps, as he recounts his evolution from his playing days to his current role with the first team. Through poignant anecdotes, Shaw reflects on his upbringing in a soccer-loving family, his academic pursuits in business and sports management, and his seamless transition from player to coach. Gain insights into Shaw's coaching philosophy, emphasizing the importance of understanding the business...
May 11, 2024•48 min•Season 1Ep. 37
In this episode, we offer a comprehensive guide to college soccer featuring Kyle Johnston, assistant coach at Duke University. Kyle's journey begins playing as a striker, then becoming a successful goalkeeper and coach. Drawing from his father's professional and collegiate soccer legacy and his own playing experience, including time in Spain, Kyle shares invaluable insights into the sport. From character development to the challenges of balancing academics and athletics, Kyle provides a compelli...
May 04, 2024•40 min•Season 1Ep. 36
In Episode 35 of The Insider's Lounge, journey into the world of soccer analysis with Justin Solomon, the video coach for Philadelphia Union Academy. Join us as Justin shares his remarkable soccer journey, from grassroots beginnings to coaching and analysis roles. Delve into the nuances of soccer culture between the US and Australia as Justin reflects on his playing career. Learn about his transition to coaching and the importance of adaptability in the dynamic soccer landscape. Gain exclusive i...
Apr 27, 2024•36 min•Season 1Ep. 35
In Episode 34 of our podcast, dive into the world of the modern-day athlete with Sebastian Avanzini, a professional footballer and visionary entrepreneur. Join Sebastian as he shares his journey from the football pitch to the boardroom, emphasizing the importance of education and perseverance along the way. Discover Sebastian's unique approach to balancing his football career with entrepreneurial endeavours, including his groundbreaking project, Icebox Recovery. Gain insights into his future asp...
Apr 19, 2024•40 min•Season 1Ep. 34
In this engaging episode, join Omar Adlani, head coach of FC Honka’s women’s team, as he recounts his international journey from Algeria to Finland and how it shaped his coaching philosophy. Coach Adlani discusses the challenges and strategies of leading a successful women’s soccer team with limited resources in Finland's top division. He shares insights from his experiences obtaining coaching licenses and emphasizes the importance of perseverance and networking. Whether you're an aspiring coach...
Apr 13, 2024•49 min•Season 1Ep. 33
In Episode 32, join Mika Elovaara, the Head Assistant Coach of the Richmond Kickers, as he takes you on an enthralling journey from the soccer pitches of Oulu, Finland, to the helm of coaching excellence in the USA. In this captivating episode, Mika delves into how his background in humanities has uniquely influenced his coaching style. Discover the intricacies of his multifaceted roles across a professional club and academy. Uncover the secrets behind the club's successful development pathway a...
Apr 06, 2024•55 min•Season 1Ep. 32
In Episode 31, we delve into the multifaceted journey of Drew Beckie, from his roots in Regina to his impactful role as the Director of Development at Atletico Ottawa. Drew recounts his early love for soccer in Queen City, his developmental years in Denver, and the invaluable experience gained in Germany and with the Canadian national team. This episode not only charts his professional playing career, including a life-altering battle with a heart condition, but also his seamless transition into ...
Mar 31, 2024•48 min•Season 1Ep. 31
Join us in Episode 30 of our podcast as we delve into the inspiring journey of Zayne M. Thomajan, Chief Soccer Officer at NJ/NY Gotham FC. From her illustrious collegiate career at Harvard to her pivotal role in shaping Austin FC, Thomajan shares invaluable insights into her rise in the soccer industry. Tune in as she reflects on the transition to her current position, offering a glimpse into the dynamic world of women's soccer and the day-to-day operations at Gotham FC. Discover Thomajan's thou...
Mar 23, 2024•53 min•Season 1Ep. 30
In Episode 29 of The Insider's Lounge, delve into the heart of the Mexican football revolution with expert Joel Tatton-Bennett. After many years as a consultant and Managing Director of 44SPORTS in Latin America and Mexico, Joel shares his unparalleled insights into Mexican football's current state and future trajectory. From discussing the groundbreaking restructuring of Liga MX playoffs to unveiling strategies for player development and international success, Joel provides a comprehensive anal...
Mar 16, 2024•56 min•Season 1Ep. 29
Join us on an exciting journey in Episode 28 as we explore the remarkable story of Christopher Grant, the mastermind behind Svay Rieng FC's rapid ascension. From the lush hills of Scotland to the tranquil landscapes of Cambodia, Christopher Grant's journey to becoming the General Manager of Svay Rieng FC is truly extraordinary. Delve into how his exceptional leadership, shaped by coaching in professional football academies and establishing one of his own, has thrust him to the forefront of Cambo...
Mar 09, 2024•38 min•Season 1Ep. 28
Discover the secrets behind champion-building as Daniel Lock, the Director of Player Development at Columbus Crew, unveils his visionary approach in this enlightening episode. From his early playing days in England to coaching roles across various MLS clubs, Lock shares invaluable insights on balancing short-term success with long-term player development. Delve into his expertise in sports science, coaching, and his pivotal role in shaping player pathways in the US. Get ready to be inspired by h...
Mar 02, 2024•46 min•Season 1Ep. 27
Welcome to Episode 26 of The Insider's Lounge, where we sit down with Guilherme von Cupper, CEO of Berlin Sports - Bridge For Talents. As a licensed FIFA Football agent and guest lecturer, Guilherme shares insights into his transition from corporate law to sports law, daily routines, and strategic vision for the future. Additionally, he sheds light on the various companies within the Berlin Sports Group and their focus on sports law, consultancy, and agency services. Join us as we uncover the se...
Feb 24, 2024•1 hr 7 min•Season 1Ep. 26
Join us in Episode 25 as we'll talk with John Bello to learn more about Pathway, a platform designed to help ambitious professionals break into and build a career in soccer. From his childhood affinity towards soccer to his prominent positions with the United States men's national team, this episode will lay bare some of John's most important life moments that have shaped his career route. Discover what made Pathway come into existence, learn unique tips that can help an individual easily naviga...
Feb 16, 2024•51 min•Season 1Ep. 25
Join us for Episode 24 as we sit down with Valerio Zuddas, the Assistant Manager of Partizan Belgrade, for an insightful conversation covering his journey from player to coach, navigating diverse football cultures, and the challenges and rewards of coaching in the Partizan-Red Star rivalry. Discover Valerio's approach to developing young talent while balancing economic goals at Partizan, his defensive strategies, and notable achievements. Gain valuable insights into the dynamic world of football...
Feb 10, 2024•38 min•Season 1Ep. 24
Welcome to Episode 23, where we sit down with Harry Varley, Chief African Scout for KAA Gent, exploring his journey from childhood in Leeds to his current role. In this conversation, Harry shares insights into scouting in Africa, emphasizing the importance of building relationships. Living and working in Africa full-time, he takes us through the adventure and diversity of the continent, offering a glimpse into his passions for travel, books, and photography, drawing inspiration from Hunter S. Th...
Feb 03, 2024•52 min•Season 1Ep. 23
Welcome to Episode 22 of The Insider's Lounge! Join us for an insightful conversation with Co-Founder Jack Glennon as he shares his journey in the sports business industry. In this episode, Jack discusses his early sporting experiences, education at the University Campus of Football Business (UCFB), and the inspiration behind launching Behind Sport. Delve into the challenges of balancing Behind Sport with full-time roles and get a sneak peek into future projects and expansion plans. Jack emphasi...
Jan 27, 2024•54 min•Season 1Ep. 22
Welcome to Episode 21, where we sit down with Dan Rutstein, the President of Business Operations at Orange County Soccer Club, for an insightful conversation on how YOU can be a part-owner of this thriving soccer community. Explore the unique investment program launched by Orange County SC, allowing fans worldwide to play a crucial role in shaping the future of U.S. soccer development. In this episode, Dan shares personal experiences in the sports industry, from cherished early football memories...
Jan 20, 2024•58 min•Season 1Ep. 21
In this episode, Mads Davidsen, Group Head of Football at Right to Dream, shares his remarkable journey from player to coach to executive, spanning diverse areas of the world such as Asia, the Middle East and Africa. He delves into his passion for utilizing big data in football, emphasizing the synergy of objective data and subjective perspectives. Mads provides valuable insights into Right to Dream's mission, focusing on creating pathways for young talents in football while prioritizing educati...
Jan 13, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Season 1Ep. 20
