Founding Futbol

When Founding Futbol began, over a year ago, it was intended to be a year-long project exploring 52 key moments that helped soccer become popular in America. There was, by definition, a beginning, middle and end to the the series. The vision was to research those moments and present a point of view on their relevance, alongside interviews from people involved. It quickly evolved to become more ambitious, with Extra Time episodes featuring additional conversations with key figured in American soccer history. The end result was a 126 episode run that helps document modern soccer history in the United States -- spanning from 1950 through 2023. Chapters include an exploration of national teams, professional leagues, technologies, writers and more. While that's the design of the series, the backstory is more personal. Maybe even more relatable. It was conceived by asking the question, "how did we get here?" In a country that shunned soccer for so long something must have changed. Many things, in fact, had to change. Host Kent Malmros asked that question, then examined his own evolution as a soccer fan and realized his story -- falling in love with the game by watching his daughter start playing at four years old and continue all the way to college -- was common. And that model was a key factor in the American soccer stories. Families fell in love with the game and became fans because of their kids. Kendall Malmros is Kent's daughter. She joined the show to reminisce about her soccer journey and reflect on how the game helped bring them closer together. Kendall also shares how playing has impacted her fandom, and what she's observed with her friends and teammates. The balance of the episode summarizes some key themes of the season and reveals what is next for Founding Futbol.Founding Futbol has been a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America.Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.comSubscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice.Host: Kent MalmrosGuest: Kendall Malmros (College Soccer Player)

Asli Pelit came to the US to study journalism, but quickly realized she missed the soccer culture she gew up with in Turkey. In search of a way to combine her passion for the beautiful game and her desire to tell stories, Asli traveled to South America to learn more about the obsession with great "number 10s." That was among her first exposure to the cult of Lionel Messi. That work launched her career as a soccer writer. She subsequently went on to write about soccer for various outlets, including Sportico. As the sports deals reporter she dedicated numerous articles to the impact of Messi's arrival at Inter Miami to play in Major League Soccer. Pelit explored how he changed the business dynamics of the league and brought fans to stadiums like never before.Pelit joined Founding Futbol to tell her story and reflect on Messi's career, as well as his importance in America. She then discusses her transition to cover the women's game for The Athletic and why fostering fandom is critical to the growth of soccer in the United States.Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America.Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.comSubscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice.Host: Kent MalmrosGuest: Asli Pelit (Staff Writer, Women's Soccer at The Athletic)

The story of Lionel Messi coming to America to play for Inter Miami of MLS was so big, that USA Today decided to dedicate an entire job to just that beat. Safid Deen is that reporter. After a long and successful career covering more traditional American sports -- like basketball and American football both at the professional and college level, Deen had the opportunity to cover Messi and jumped at it. Located in Miami, Deen has seen and covered the the sports scene in that city for years. That has given him the perspective to observe and report on Messi-mania within the context of traditionally popular sports in America. It also gave Deen the opportunity to fall in love with and appreciate Messi as a fan and reporter all at the same time. He joined Founding Futbol to talk about his journey to becoming a Lionel Messi reporter. Deen then shares his reflections on the job to date, why the Messi experiment matters, whether or not he needs to win an MLS Cup to be deemed a success and so much more.  Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America.Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.comSubscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice.Host: Kent MalmrosGuest: Safid Deen (Lionel Messi Reporter, USA Today)

Lionel Messi's decision to join Inter Miami of Major League Soccer had historical precedent on many levels. Despite it's failure, the first MLS team in Miami -- the Fusion -- attempted to harness the unique location and demographic makeup of the south Florida to the benefit of soccer in America. With a strong connection to Latin America, stars like Carlos Valderrama wore Fusion colors in an attempt to create fan interest and help grow the game in the United States. While those elements felt familiar, luring the best players in the world and greatest player of all time to Miami to play for the second iteration of an MLS team in the city seemed unlikely. And, yet, Messi arrived in 2023 and changed the landscape of sports in the city and soccer in America. Michelle Kaufman is a long-tenured sports writer for the Miami Herald, with a deep focus on international sports. She was working for the paper when the Fusion played and then saw the establishment of Inter Miami. Kaufman covered Beckham putting roots in the city, working with the Mas brothers to buy the club and ultimately bringing Messi to the team. She joined Founding Futbol to share her recollections and insights about the evolution of soccer in Miami and America. She also talks about the significance of Messi's decision and shares how she's seen it impact the city. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America.Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.comSubscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice.Host: Kent MalmrosGuest: Michelle Kaufman (Sportswriter, Miami Herald)

Lionel Messi is widely considered the great soccer player of all-time. His accomplishments are virtually unrivaled. His counting stats in many was are incomprehensible. Messi's long career primarily with Barcelona, at the club level, and Argentina, internationally, have built him a fan following second to none on the history of professional sports. With David Beckham's involvement in the Major League Soccer club, Inter Miami CF, there were whispers that the potential for Messi to come to MLS may be a reality. But, when it happened in 2023, it was still a shock. The greatest of all time, just months removed from his first World Cup win in 2022, was coming to play soccer in America. Despite his advanced age, Messi was still regarded as one of the best players in the world. Virtually any team in top five European leagues would happily have added him to their roster.  Yes, he chose MLS. The impacts of the deal were well documented but still hard to conceive. Messi's arrival triggered economic ripples that included a massive broadcast partnership between MLS and Apple TV, among others. His arrival immediately boosted ticket sales as well. Paul Tenorio is a senior writer at The Athletic, covering soccer. He has documented "Messi-mania" in all forms -- on the field, off the field and beyond. Tenorio has written numerous pieces for The Athletic breaking down the economic impacts of Messi's arrival in America and is working on a book about his overall effect on MLS and soccer in the United States. He joined Founding Futbol to talk all things Messi in America. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America.Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com.Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice.Host: Kent MalmrosGuest: Paul Tenorio (Senior Writer, The Athletic)Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jeff Carlisle is one of the best known soccer reporters in America. He career covering the sports has mirrored its ascension in the United States. After transitioning out of a job in corporate America, Jeff tried his hand in writing with a focus on the beautiful game. Within a few years, she was working for ESPN and quickly emerged as one of the lead writers covering Major League Soccer and the US Men's National Team. As a result, he watched enthusiasm for soccer grow in America as both the national team and top-flight domestic league gave fans big, memorable moments. Jeff also witnessed any number of perceived setbacks; the USMNT's failure to qualifying for the 2018 FIFA Men's World Cup, the roster's subsequent transition to a younger group of talent, and then the redemption of qualifying for the 2022 World Cup is an example of seeing the ups and downs of this country's soccer growth all within a four year cycle. Carlise joined the showed to talk about that time. He first shares the story of how he go into sports writing, then discusses his perspective on the importance of the USMNT qualifying for the 2022 World Cup after missing out in 2018. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America.Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.comSubscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice.Host: Kent MalmrosGuest: Jeff Carlisle (Senior Writer, ESPN)

Kellyn Acosta was a key member of the US Men's National Team that qualified for and then played in the 2022 FIFA Men's World Cup in Qatar. His journey to that tournament, and significance of his participation, is unique to the story of soccer in America. Acosta was born in Dallas, Texas and joined he FC Dallas youth system in 2009. He worked his way through the Development Academy, then onto the senior team in 2013. He emerged as a regular on the FC Dallas team and became recognized as a rising star in the US Soccer ecosystem. He finally broke through  with the US Men's National Team in 2016, at a time of transition. The team was unsuccessful in its efforts to qualify for the World Cup; then a legendary group of veterans was transitioning out of the program and a young group introduced rapidly into the first team. Kellyn was part of that group and experienced the ebbs and flows of the transition before ultimately being a key contributor in the Qualifying cycle.  He is the son of a Japanese father and an African American Mother. When he earned a roster spot for the 2022 World Cup, Kellyn became the first Asian American man to appear for the United States in a World Cup. He has played 11 seasons in the MLS and is an MLS Cup winner with LAFC. Kellyn currently is a member of Chicago Fire FC. He talks about his story on the show Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America.Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.comSubscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice.Host: Kent MalmrosGuest: Kellyn Acosta (MLS and USMNT Player)

When the US Men's National Team failed to qualify for the 2018 World Cup, it was a setback to the growth of soccer in America. The disappointment of that failed qualification triggered changes at the top of the team, and a concerted effort to integrate a new group of young talent that could get the team back to the FIFA Men's World Cup in 2022. Players like Weston McKennie, Tim Weah, Tyler Adams,  Yunus Musah, Antonee Robinson, Kellyn Acosta and others became fixtures of the starting XI through 2018 and into the 2019 Gold Cup in an effort to gain the experience needed to excel on the international stage.  Aaron Long was in that group of players. He worked his way into the national team picture after becoming a stalwart defender under Jesse Marsch for the NY Red Bulls. Once he landed on the senior team roster, his impact was felt. Long became a starter and team captain. Then, after fighting through injuries, figured into the final stages of the World Cup Qualifiers before making the roster for the team's trip to Qatar. Long joined Founding Futbol to talk about his journey through MLS and onto the national team. He discusses how then coach Gregg Berhalter gave the team clear focus on a return to the world's biggest tournament, and what it was like learning to win with a young group of players. Long also reflects on the importance of the USMNT return to the World Cup, and how it helped continue to elevate the game in America. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America.Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com.Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice.Host: Kent MalmrosGuest: Aaron Long (MLS and USMNT Player)Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

While the equal pay fight was driven by players on the US Women's National Team, they represented all women trying to make a living playing soccer at the highest level. The fight extended into the professional ranks where players like Joanna Lohman used their voices to advocate for, initially, just a living wage at the WPS and then NWSL levels. But, for players like Lohman and so many others, the equal pay fight represented so much more -- it was a proxy for activism and advocacy on so many levels. Women's soccer players in this country became the champions of lifting women and other underrepresented communities up to articulate and ask for their value to be seen. In this Extra Time episode, Lohman shares here journey through the soccer world. She talks about how hard it was to afford life as a professional soccer player. She shares her perspective on the broader implications of being undervalued -- from how it impacts confidence to social justice issues -- and why the USWNT and soccer community was uniquely suited to help elevate the status of women in America, overall. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America.Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.comSubscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice.Host: Kent MalmrosGuest: Joanna Lohman (Former NWSL Player, Keynote Speaker, Entrepreneur)

After the 2015 Women's World Cup, the US Women's National Team used their heightened profile and propensity for activism to file a complaint  with Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) against US Soccer seeking equal pay to their male counterparts on the US Men's National Team. Five players -- Alex Morgan, Hope Solo, Carli Lloyd, Megan Rapinoe, and Becky Sauerbrunn -- asserted that the US Soccer Federation's payment structure unfairly favored male players, resulting in women earning significantly less than their male counterparts for similar work. Jeffrey Kessler, maybe the world's most prominent sports attorney, became the legal anchor  to the USWNT efforts then and would remain so moving forward.That complaint went unresolved but was the first step in a series of actions that ultimately brought the USWNT a victory. After a reconfiguration of the players union, and a few iterations of collective bargaining agreement negotiations, the women took charge of the fight for equal pay. And leading up to the 2019 Women's World Cup, they decided to escalate the conflict, working with Kessler to file a lawsuit against US Soccer -- this time in the name of 28 players on the national team roster at the time. Filed on International Women's Day, the suit sought backpay and damages, in addition to equal pay moving forward. It would take three years to resolve, but eventually the women emerged victorious, settling with US Soccer for a landmark $24M. Kessler joined Founding Futbol to share his experience supporting the USWNT in their pursuit of equality. He talks about how he ended up in sports law,  when he first connected with the team and so much more. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America.Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com.Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice.Host: Kent MalmrosGuest: Jeffrey Kessler (Sports Attorney, Co-Executive Chairman of Winston & Strawn)Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David Copeland-Smith founded Beast Mode Soccer in in 2010 as a training system to help guide soccer players' technical development. His methodologies quickly caught on among college, international and pro players, leading him to work with the likes of Alex Morgan, Rachel Daly, Landon Donovan, Allie Long and Kristie Mewis. In fact, 13 of the 24 members of the 2019 World Cup winning World Cup squad have trained with Copeland-Smith. While his ability as a trainer earned him the attention of those players, working with those players and then using platforms like Instagram to document those session to the broader soccer public, earned him national recognition as an elite level trainer. Beast Mode has become synonymous with the soccer trainer culture on Instagram, something that has connected the fans with a different side of the soccer world. Copeland-Smith joined Founding Futbol to share the story of how he landed in LA, began his journey along the path of personal training and the importance of Instagram in his journey. He shares stories of staying with pop star Robbie Williams, having Kelley O'Hara bring "friends" to pickup games (that turned out to be global soccer icons) and so much more.  Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America.Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.comSubscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice.Host: Kent MalmrosGuest: David Copeland-Smith (Founder and Owner, Beast Mode Soccer)

The exploration of key moments in US Soccer history has revealed the importance of media and then social media in amplifying the beauty of the game and connecting fans to it in a variety of ways. Cable sports helped expose the American public to highlights. YouTube let fans see world class goals at the same time Messi emerged on the global stage. Twitter gave American soccer fans the ability to connect, cheer and celebrate Abby Wambach's miracle goal against Brazil in the 2011 Women's World Cup. Instagram continued and then magnified the value of social media in the growth of soccer in the United States. The visual nature of the content lent itself to the beautiful game. Importantly, images and videos also gave players another way to use their voice. That let fans into their world and, in particular with the women's players, forged a bond that made more people fans. Soccer players have become the most followed personalities on the entire platform and their posts the most liked as well. Soccer Instagram has given rise to a player culture, a highlight culture, a trainer culture and a creator culture. Kelley O'Hara played at a time when social media and, in particular, Instagram were changing the way fans found soccer and soccer players. She was part of two World Cup winning teams in 2015 and 2019 that used the platform to build an even bigger following and fan base. The ability to visually curate their lives to connect with various communities and bring even more people into the game of soccer. O'Hara joined the show to talk about how social media enabled the team's activism. She shares how she approached balancing Instagram's importance, with contnued piortization and focus on the game. O'Hara also discusses how social media has given rise to her second career.  Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America.Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com.Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice.Host: Kent MalmrosGuest: Kelley O'Hara (Former USWNT  and NWSL Player)Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When actors Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds bought Wrexham AFC, it generated significant interest in the United States. Two Hollwood stars attaching themselves to a team in Wales, par of the English football system, gave Americans another way in which they could connect with the beautiful game, globally. But, when they turned it into a sports documentary, it opened the door to soccer for casual fans in the same way Ted Lasso and other cinematic content did as well.  Josh Drisko joined Founding Futbol to talk about his journey with Welcome to Wrexham. He built a successful career in television, intersecting with McElhenney in multiple cities, and ultimately working with him on the hit television show "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia." Drisko and others remained together working on more McElhenney projects over the years. When the actors bought Wrexham, a series of events led Drisko to become part of the project. He talks about the differences between fiction and documentaries. The connection he built with the content, and more. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America.Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.comSubscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice.Host: Kent MalmrosGuest: Josh Drisko (Showrunner and Editor, Welcome to Wrexham)

Angel City FC brought top flight professional women's soccer back to Los Angeles.. Announced in 2020, the team began playing in 2022. But the process of making that initiative a reality started in 2019 during a conversation between the club's co-founder and CEO, Julie Uhrman, and others. An idea quickly turned into action and within months, Uhrman and team of co-founders were putting together a unique syndicate of owners that represented Hollywood, soccer history and the business world.  Uhrman joined Founding Futbol to share her journey with Angel City FC. During the conversation, Uhrman talks about how and when the idea to bring an NWSL club to LA was born. She delves into the steps required to make it a reality -- from raising money and putting and ownership group together, to building.a staff, to assembling a team. Uhrman shares how she translated her business experience to the soccer world, how she learned about running a club and what makes the Angel City formula unique.  Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America.Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.comSubscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice.Host: Kent MalmrosGuest: Julie Uhrman (Co-Founder and CEO, Angel City FC)

With the success of Ted Lasso, as well as the growing popularity of soccer documentaries and broader program on streaming services, Hollywood began to seen an opportunity to connect with soccer. In 2020, two different initiatives marked the Hollywoodization of soccer in different ways. Angel CIty FC, a Los Angeles expansion team in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) was announced with a star-studded, celebrity-laden ownership group. And two world famous actors -- Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds -- bought Wrexham AFC with the intent to create a documentary about the club geared towards an American audience. The two evens happened within just a few months of each others. And while they were very different in effect, they shared a deep connection to LA and Hollywood based on actor and actress based ownership. Both Angel City and Wrexham generated significant publicity as a result. Which allowed both teams to draw new and different fans into the game.Angel City also added a slew of former USWNT players to its ownership group -- in addition to entrepreneurs and actress..Saskia Webber was one of the players in that group and she returned to the show to talk about owning an NWSL team in LA. She shares how the opportunity came about. What it was like helping get it off the ground. How the former player contribute to the club's success, and more. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America.Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com.Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice.Host: Kent MalmrosGuest: Saskia Webber (Former USWNT Player, Angel City FC Owner)Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ted Lasso was successful because it was a great television show. One that developed lovable characters and compelling storylines. Its award-winning run, alone, made it story worthy for so many media outlets, including For The Win, a USA Today website that covers sports and pop culture. But, it's deep connection to sports put it even more into the zeitgeist, drawing on the deep connection between actors and athletes. Charles Curtis joined Founding Futbol to talk about what made Ted Lasso a hit but also why sites like For The Win found it compelling to cover. He dives into how the show touched on the intersection of sports and entertainment, creating crossover of fan bases that may not have otherwise connected. During the discuss, Curtis shares his opinion on how Ted Lasso pulled casual fans into soccer, helping it become more popular in America. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America.Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.comSubscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice.Host: Kent MalmrosGuest: Charles Curtis (Managing Editor, For The Win)

In August of 2020, when the world was quarantined inside consuming streaming content like never before, Apple TV+ launched Ted Lasso. In search of a hit to match the growing success of Netflix and make themselves a force in the subscription-based streaming wars, Apple took a chance on the creative powers of Jason Sudeikis, Bill Lawrence and others. As well as faith that a promotional skit created to help NBC launch its coverage of the Premier League, that had twice gone viral, could evolve to become a sustainable and successful comedy. Ted Lasso became a runaway hit, launching Sudeikis even further into Hollywood superstardom. The show also brought an entirely new fan base into the world of soccer, while building a sophisticated commentary around the idea that Americans could integrate with a traditional English soccer culture, and be accepted, maybe even succesful. Andrés Martinez wrote an article in the LA Times detailing how the show was a match made in globalizer heaven. He joined Foundign Futbol to talk about how the show connected so many in America to the game in ways the country had never experience. Martinez also discusses how the momentum the show gave Apple TV may have carried it deeper into the soccer market. And, he outlines how Ted Lasso is a good example of the growing sportification of media. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America.Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com.Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice.Host: Kent MalmrosGuest:  Andrés Martinez (Former Journalist, professor of practice at the Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication, Arizona State University) 

The rapid evolution of soccer analytics was both influenced and driven by a group of Americans. From the emergence of sabermetrics in baseball, and it's popularization in the book "Moneyball," to the growth of the MIT Sloan Sports Analytics Conference, the application of mathematical models to various sports has been a passion of many in the United States. Soccer falls into that category as well. While the discipline started in England, many of the most influential minds in the space have been based in the US. Ravi Ramineni is one such individual. The one-time Microsoft employee was both a computer engineer and soccer fan, who hoped to turn his passion into a profession.He started by created a fan blog. But, a series of events directed him to soccer analytics and helped him turn it into a career. Ramineni spent nine years with the Seattle Sounders of Major League Soccer building best practices for the team and league's approach to harvesting data and using it for player analysis -- first focusing on development and then later recruiting.Ramineni joined Founding Futbol to share his path to working in soccer. From meeting his wide, fellow soccer analytics pioneer Sarah Rudd, to attending Sloan, to connecting with the Sounder, he walks through key moments in his career.Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America.Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.comSubscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice.Host: Kent MalmrosGuest: Ravi Ramineni (Former VP of Soccer Analytics and Research, Seattle Sounders)

In 2020, the MIT Sloan Sports Analytics Conference featured a panel entitled, "Soccer Analytics: The Beautiful Game Meets the Analytics Edge." While the broader sporting public was acknowledging that soccer analytics had finally hit the mainstream, it had been evolving for decades. Starting with the work of Charles Reep, who is largely credited as being the first person to capture soccer match data en masse then analyze it, soccer analytics truly accelerated in the 2000s. A combination of American influence co-mingled with application globally pushed the practice forward. Thanks to the "Moneyball" phenomenon, conferences like Sloan, enterprising data scientists and opportunistic entrepreneurs, soccer analytics began to forge an influential path with English clubs like Arsenal and Liverpool Lucy Rushton broke into the soccer world in that environment. After working for her hometown club, Reading FC and then later Watford FC, Rushton moved to the US to take on a lead analytics role for Atlanta United in Major League Soccer. She was later hired as the General Manager of DC United and then also of Bay FC in the National Women's Soccer League. Rushton joined the show to talk about her journey and the evolution of soccer analytics over the last few decades. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com. Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Lucy Rushton (Former GM, Bay FC and DC United) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

During the 2015 Women's World Cup and then even more so in the 2019 Women's World Cup, fans of the US Women's National Team came to know the name: Dawn Scott. The long time performance coach and sports scientist joined US Soccer in 2010. She remained with the program through multiple coaching changes and then, when the team made history as repeat World Cup Champions, players consistently referenced Scott as a key contributing factor. Many referred to her as the team's "secret weapon." Scott joined Founding Futbol to recount her journey through the soccer world -- from breaking into the business through her current work as one of the world's leading soccer sports scientists. She recalls moments from her start with US Soccer, the 2015 and 2019 World Cup runs, and so much more. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Dawn Scott (Chief Soccer Correspondent, The Philadelphia Inquirer) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In 2019, the USWNT was attempting to make history as the first women's national team to win back-to-back World Cup titles. Jill Ellis was still at the help and had overseen some turnover from the roster that won the 2015 World Cup -- in fact, about half the roster was different. Despite that, the team still has some of it's most prominent stars, including Megan Rapinoe. A combination of youth and Rapinoe dominance propelled the team to the top of the podium. And she did that while still maintaining her stance on off-field issues. JP Dellacamera has broadcast 17 World Cups, making him the voice of soccer for many Americans. He returned to the show to recount the USWNT's journey through the 2019 Women's World Cup. During our conversation, Dellacamera recounts key moments in the tournament. He talks about the significance of Rapinoe's performance and more. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com. Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: JP Dellacamera (Broadcaster) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The emergence of Julie Johnston, now Julie Ertz, during the 2015 World Cup brought attention to her relationship with Zach Ertz. Their journey together from college athletes to professional athletes and, in the case of Julie, international star, made headlines. As their careers progressed, their place in the sports power couple continuum evolved. And fans of each cheered on the other. Jonathan Tannenwald is one of the leading soccer writers in the country and a previous guest of the show. As a college student, he was in Philadelphia to see AJ Feeley and Heather Mitts create the football/soccer couple archetype. Then, as he began working for The Philadelphia Inquirer, Tannenwald witnessed Julie's impact on soccer in the city where Zach was becoming an NFL star. He joined Founding Futbol to share his memories of covering Julie Ertz during her emergence, and discuss the merits of how sports couples should (and shouldn't be) covered, as well as the impact of cross-pollinating fans. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Jonathan Tannenwald (Chief Soccer Correspondent, The Philadelphia Inquirer) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

in 2015, en route to a third Women's World Cup victory, new stars emerged for the US Women's National Team. No one's profile was elevated more than Julie Johnston, who at the time went by Julie Johnston. The Santa Clara product had been a key part of the Youth National Team pools, but was on the fringes of the USWNT roster heading into the World Cup Qualifying cycles in 2014. Injuries opened the door, she impressed Jill Ellis and Johnston made her way to Canada with the team. She quickly emerged as a key part of the squad, anchoring the backline next to veteran Becky Sauerbrunn. With her blond ponytail, blue pre-wrap and propensity for biting tackles followed by a bright smile, fans quickly fell in love with Johnston. The more she gained popularity, the more fans craved information about the new star. They quickly learned that Johnston, was in a long-term relationship with emerging NFL star Zach Ertz -- a tight end for the Philadelphia Eagles. Just as USWNT fans fell in love with Julie, so too did they fall in love with Zach. And as their individual fame grew, their collective fame grew as well, transcending sports journals into the pages of People and US Weekly. But, something interesting happened along the way -- in a country where American football is the biggest sport on the block, a woman playing association football was seen as the bigger overall star and the more accomplished athlete. The cross pollination of both fan bases brought more people to soccer. And the power of sports power couples was realized. Katie Baker, a writer for The Ringer that covers sports, culture and more, joined the show to talk about the impact of Zach Ertz and Julie Johnston when they first broke onto the scene, and the continued interest in their relationship as they became Zach and Julie Ertz once married. Baker also talked about why America is fascinated with the love lives of celebrities and how it helps bring attention to a sport like soccer. She also explores why the USWNT uniquely features a variety of power couples. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com. Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Katie Baker (Senior Staff Writer, The Ringer) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The 2015 Women's World Cup wasn't just about the US Women's National Team return to the top of the soccer world and winning its third star. It was also an opportunity to showcase the impact American women's soccer had on the rest of the world, by seeing the growth of the field and improvement in competition from other federations. Glenn Davis was on the Fox broadcast team in 2015 and he had the chance to see a variety of countries compete at the tournament. He joined Founding Futbol to talk about the impact women's soccer has had on the game in the US, and the impact US women's soccer has had around the world. Davis reflects on the 2015 Women's World Cup and the evolution of the USWNT. Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Glenn Davis (Former USWNT and NWSL Player) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

There were many storylines associated with the US Women's National Team heading into the 2015 Women's World Cup. Jill Ellis was early in her tenure as head coach. Emerging young talents were on the ascension. Alex Morgan was a certified star. But above all, the team was looking for its first World Cup win since 1999. A key group of veterans made the trip to Canada with multiple Olympic gold medals on their resume, but yearning to add the World Cup win to their personal list of accomplishments as well. Heather O'Reilly was one of those players. Along with Abby Wambach, Shannon Boxx and others. For O'Reilly, better known as HAO, 2015 presented an opportunity to help the team achieve new heights. She joined Founding Futbol to talk about her career. HAO discusses how the team's performance may have been under appreciated during those Olympic runs, without the World Cup title. She shares the challenges of taking on different roles as the USWNT evolved and so much more. Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Heather O'Reilly (Former USWNT and NWSL Player) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

in 2015, the US Women's National Team embarked on a mission to bring home its third star. Fortunately, the team didn't have to travel far, with the tournament being hosted in Canada. While the physical travel wasn't taxing, the pressure to continue evolving the sport in America, with momentum from the 2011 World Cup and 2012 Olympics, was palpable. So too was the desire to win a a World Cup championship for legends like Abby Wambach and Heather O'Reilly as they approached the late stages of their international careers. Becky Sauerbrunn joined the show to talk about the journey to that competition. The legendary center back shared her memories leading up that run in Canada. She talks about the program's evolution, the new coaching regime that led the team to the 2015 World Cup, the impact of that win and more. Sauerbrunn discussed why that win was so important and how it continued to change the perception of women's soccer in America. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com. Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Becky Sauerbrunn (Soccer Journaist) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When Christian Pulisic broke onto the international soccer scene, playing for the USMNT as a teenager, he represented a new wave of hope that the Americans could establish themselves with more prominence on the global stage. It wasn't just Pulisic, but a group of up-and-coming young talent that included the likes of Weston McKennie, Tim Weah, Tyler Adams and others. The team faced disappointment when failing to qualify for the 2018 World Cup, but also grew from that experience, forming the core of the team for years to come. David Sarachan had the chance to coach that group during his stint as the interim USMNT head coach in 2017 and 2018. He joined Founding Futbol to share his experience with those young players. During the conversation, Sarachan talks about how the game change, why it's so hard to compare different generations of players and more. Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: David Sarachan (Former Assistant Coach, USMNT) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When Christian Pulisic broke onto the youth soccer scene as a teenager, playing for PA Classics and the IMG residency for US Soccer, other countries and clubs took notice. Specifically, in the process of scouting another US youth national, Dortmund took notice. When he moved to Germany to join the club, his emergence on the global scene accelerated. Pulisic impressed for both the U17 and U19 Dortmund teams, and quickly worked his way into the senior team. At the same time, Pulisic broke through with the US Men's National team. He, along with a generation of young American talent featuring in the top flights of Europe, offered the country a new sense of hope that the country could break through globally. Brian Sciaretta joined the show to talk about Pulisic's continued growth at Dortmund, then Chelsea and most recently AC Milan. He shared his thoughts on the generation of talent that has defined the Pulisic-era of the USMNT and contemplates what still may be yet to come. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com. Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Brian Sciaretta (Soccer Journaist) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When Jordan Morris broke through with the US Men's National team, still an emerging college star at Stanford, soccer fans wanted to know more about the kid from the Seattle area. They wanted to know, specifically, how he beat the odds to break through on the senior national team as a college player, which hadn't happened in decades. Reporters sought out his story and began hearing about the near-mythical goal he scored when the Cardinal scrimmaged the national team in a pre-World Cup training camp. Noah Davis was one of those reporters. In April of 2015, after Morris became a fan favorite scoring his first international goal against rival Mexico, Davis delivered a profile on the player for ESPN's Grantland. It shared the story of his conversations with USMNT coach Jurgen Klinsmann leading to the call-up. Stories like that one, revealing the player's humility and work ethic, further stoked the Morris-mania that would come when he led Stanford to an NCAA title. Davis joined Founding Futbol to share his work on the Jordan Morris and reflect on what his story meant to the growth of soccer in America. Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Noah Davis (Freelance Journalist, Co-Founder of Three Point Four Media) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

College soccer is unique to the American sporting culture. Much of youth soccer's growth has been built around the promise of earning a college scholarship to play the sport, an attribute that is unique to both the game and higher education in the United States. Often, that puts it at conflict with the development pathways most commonly used to build strong national team programs in other countries. And, yet, college soccer itself doesn't generate significant revenue or fan interest. That leaves college soccer in the unenvious place of having a misunderstood identity. However, in 2014, Jordan Morris emerged on the senior national team scene while still playing at Stanford. He stayed and helped lead the Cardinal to an NCAA national championship, just months after scoring his first USMNT goal against Mexico. His national team popularity brought attention to mens's college soccer like never before. Jeremy Gunn coached Morris during his time at Stanford and joined the show to talk about the players impact on the program and soccer in America. He recounts how Morris caught the attention of Jurgen Klinsmann during a scrimmage between the national team and Stanford, and the call-up that followed. Gunn reflect on the reasons Morris stayed at Stanford when he could have left, and so much more. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com. Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Jeremy Gunn (Men's Soccer Head Coach, Stanford University) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When NBC won the rights to broadcast the Premier League starting in 2013, it seemed like just another TV contract for a professional sports entity with a new broadcast partner. But there were unique attributes of that deal and the the way NBC approached the partnership gave Americans a better platform on which they could invest in and become attached teams in the Premier League. By earning exclusive rights to show all 380 games, it became possible for fans in the US to spend enough time with each team truly understand the nuances of their cultures and histories and find ways to identify with teams authentically. Brett Bebber has spent his professional life studying various elements of historical British culture. As an American that grew up playing soccer, he was always fascinated by the Premier League, but fell in love with it differently like so many when NBC's coverage began. He has a unique understanding of why based on his academic research. Bebber joined Founding Fubtol to talk about how the culture of leisure and the intersection of British and American histories truly accelerated with when the partnership between NBC and the PL began. Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Brett Bebber (Associate Professor of History, Old Dominion University) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

.After a long and successful professional career in England, Robbie Mustoe came to the United States to coach college soccer. He found his way to Bentley University and then Boston College, on a trajectory to becoming a college head coach. Along the way, however, he decided to try his hand at television and landed a gig at ESPN covering the sport he played for so long in England. When NBC won the rights to the Premier League, the expressed an interest in adding Mustoe to the studio team being assembled to support the partnership. Mustoe was chosen, along with Robbie Earle and Rebecca Lowe. He and Earle have become known as "The Two Robbies" and, along with Lowe, continue to anchor the league's coverage over a decade later. Mustoe joined Founding Fubtol to talk about his journey to NBC and beyond. Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Robbie Mustoe (Studio Analyst, NBC Sports Premier League coverage) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Premier League is arguably the best professional soccer league in the world. With an infusion of capital over the last few decades, teams like Manchester United, Manchester City, Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal and others have become household names around the globe. In the United States, before the 2000s, soccer fans following England's top flight had to get their fix either during summer exhibition tours or through appointment viewing on limited network availability. That began to change through the league's partnership with Fox, but then fandom in the US exploded after NBC won exclusive league broadcast rights beginning in 2013. Jon Miller was the NBC Sports executive responsible for making that deal happen. He joined Founding Futbol to breakdown what drew the network to the Premier League initially, how the deal got done, the birth of Ted Lasso and the importance of the studio team. In a far reaching conversation, Miller shares how streaming had an impact on the expansion of NBC's coverage and reflects on the importance of Rebecca Lowe, Robbie Earle and Robbie Mustoe. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com. Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Jon Miller (President, Acquisitions & Partnerships, NBC Sports) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Cari Roccaro was a standout college player at Notre Dame before establishing herself as a rookie on the Houston Dash, the National Women's Soccer League's first expansion team. She then won two NWSL championships with the North Carolina Courage and was part of Angel City FC's first season before settling in most recently as a key player for the Chicago Red Stars. Roccaro has also had an impact off the field. Her efforts to ensure mental health support for NWSL players as part of the first collective bargaining agreement became a critical part of the resources provided for players. She joined Founding Futbol to share her story. Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Cari Roccaro (Midfielder, Chicago Red Stars) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Yael Averbuch West has an unmatched impact on women's soccer in America. She had a outstanding career at North Carolina, winning national championships with Anson Dorrance and the Tar Heels. She then emerged on the professional women's soccer scene and earned time as part of the US Women's National Team. And while her playing career was outstanding, West's most notable contributions may have come off the field. She was a driving force behind the National Women's Soccer League Player's Association (NWSLPA) and has become the general manager of Gotham FC. West joined Founding Futbol to share the story of how these moments came to pass, and what impact she believes that had on soccer in America. Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Yael Averbuch West (Former NWSL Player, General Manager of Gotham FC) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After years of growth, the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) hit two consecutive bumps in the road. The first it shared with the rest of the professional sports world -- the COVID pandemic. But, then after the 2021 season, scandal rocked the league and left everyone concerned that it would potentially fold. However, Marla Messing came in as interim CEO and stabilized the league. Not only did it find a way to recover from the challenges, but hit a new period of growth -- ratifying the league's first Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), adding key sponsors and expanding into multiple new cities over the coming years. The NWSL's rebirth, thanks in large part by the short tenure of Messing, launched the league into a new phase of growth that has elevated women's professional soccer to new heights. She joined the shows to talk about the critical window in the league's history, how she approached a job that came about so abruptly and had so many challenges, and so much more. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com. Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Marla Messing (Former NWSL Interim-CEO) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Brittany Cameron is known by youth soccer players hoping to take the field for Wake Forest one day. A staple on the Demon Deacons sideline, Cameron has made a trailblazing name for herself in the coaching ranks, also acting as the goalkeeper coach for the US Youth National Teams (U19 and U20). Before Cameron helped make Wake a perennial collegiate power -- including a trip to the NCAA Championship finals in 2024 -- she was a college and professional standout at a time when women's professional soccer was anything but an obvious career choice. She played in the WPS and then the NWSL, suiting up for Sky Blue FC in the league's first three seasons. She eventually followed professional soccer opportunities to play in Japan before fully dedicating herself to what has become a fruitful coaching career. Cameron joined Founding Futbol to share her story -- including how soccer opened doors for her and why she believes its important to represent underserved communities and help give them access to the beautiful game. Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Brittany Cameron (Former NWSL Player, Associate Women's Soccer Head Coach at Wake Forest University) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When the NWSL was founded in 2012, four of the founding teams were former members of the WPS (Women's Professional Soccer) -- including the Boston Breakers. One Breakers player that had been with the team between 2009-2011, and rejoined the team in 2013 initial to coach, was Ashley Phillips , who ultimately ended up playing as well. Phillips had starred at Clemson University, then graduated at the awkward time in the sport when the best American female players didn't have a top flight domestic professional league to play in. That realization helped Phillips, who already had an interest in coaching, realize the need for options. During her time with the Breakers when they played in the WPS, she began coaching to help pay the bills. Eventually, she walked away from the game and became the head coach of the women's soccer team at Northeastern She joined Founding Futbol to share her story -- one that reflects how hard a generation of players had to fight to stay in the game when options were limited. Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Ashley Phillips (Former NWSL Player, Women's Soccer Head Coach at Northeastern University) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

While the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) has emerged as the best women's professional soccer league in the world, it took years to achieve that status, striving first for stability. Early successes, such as the fan support for the Portland Thorns and on-field performance of FC Kansas City, gave the nascent league showcase moments, players and teams. FC Kansas City rostered the likes of Becky Sauerbrunn and Lauren Holliday of US Women's National Team, and combined them with young talents like Erika Tymrak. Meanwhile, players like Leigh Ann Brown had significant professional experience in the then defunct WPS (Women's Professional Soccer), and made FC Kansas an even more formidable force. The team had the league's second-best record in year one, then won back-to-back championships in years two and three. Brown joined Founding Futbol to talk about her journey to the NWSL, how persistence landed her on the FC Kansas City roster, why she ultimately left the game after three successful season in the league, and so much more. Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Leigh Ann Brown (Former NWSL Player) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When the Women's United Soccer Association (WUSA) folded in 2003, many believed the prospect of a sustainable top-flight women's professional league in America was undermined. The resulting league fragmentation made it difficult for our top US Women's National Team players to compete at the appropriate levels after college between national team camps. When the WPS (Women's Professional Soccer) was founded in 2009, there was once again hope. But, yet again, the league folded within three years. However, coming off the enthusiasm around the women's game in the 2011 World Cup and approaching what would become a gold medal run at the 2012 Olympics for the USWNT, US Soccer regrouped and tried again. The outcome was the establishment of the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL). Leveraging lessons learned from the past, the league focused on creating a sustainable model first, then finding a way to grow from there. The first eight teams included instant success stories in Portland where the Thorns drew unexpected crowds and also won on the field. Cat Whitehill was the captain and later player-coach of the Boston Breakers -- a carryover club from the WPS -- in the team's first NWSL season. The long-time USWNT defensive stalwart joined Founding Futbol to talk about how her journey to both the USWNT and professional soccer, and how the NWSL finally created the league women's soccer needed. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com. Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Cat Whitehill (Former USWNT and NWSL Player) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jonathan Wilson and his book, Inverting the Pyramid, became popular in America due to the television show Ted Lasso. Despite never having seen the show, Wilson has noticed an increased appetite for his work in the United States, which is reflective of both the show and a growing soccer culture. He joined Founding Futbol to talk about how he got into covering soccer, his books and how they are similar (and different). Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Extra Time is an additional weekly episode that shares reactions and reflections from the chapters, and brings additional guests into the fold.  Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Jonathan Wilson (Author and Writer) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dan Blank didn't plan to be a soccer coach or a best-selling author. But after stumbling into coaching almost by accident, Blank began thinking about how written resources could help coaches and players, alike, play the game of soccer with a bit more acumen. In 2012, when self-publishing had become more common, Blanks wrote and published Soccer IQ: Things That Smart Players Do. Sales were initially modest, but some well placed promotion launched Soccer IQ onto the bestsellers list and made it one of the most purchased soccer books in America. Blank's title underscored a growing wave of both soccer literature as well as the beginning of other self-published resources about the game, such as training courses and videos. With an abundance of information available for Americans to access and consume, there were new ways to get smart and catch up on a game historically more accessible in other countries. Blank joined Founding Futbol to talk about how he came to write Soccer IQ, discuss some of his other titles, and more. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com. Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Dan Blank (Head Women's Soccer Coach, The College of New Jersey) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices