Podcasts about youth soccer

Brando Babini started a company at 16 because the thing he needed didn't exist. Five years later he's running it from a train seat between Brown and Brooklyn — 1,000 players, a Nike partnership, and 30 million views he shot and edited himself. This one's about how he actually does it.Brando is 21, still finishing his degree, and building Youth 4 Youth FC into one of the largest player-led soccer organizations in the country. He spotted the gap from his own playing career — no mentor, no one who'd walked the path ahead of him — and built the thing he wished he'd had. The 2026 World Cup is on U.S. soil right now and the whole country's suddenly paying attention to soccer. Strip the sport out, though, and you've still got the more interesting story: a Gen Z operator running a real company while most people his age are still picking a major.What We Get IntoSpotting a gap from lived experience and building the company you wished existed at 16Running an eight-state operation while taking the Amtrak back to class twice a week — the "drop-in," not the dropoutTurning 30 million organic views into 4,000 player applications — and what to do when that engine slows downLanding a Nike partnership as a young, unproven founderThe mission-vs-profit tension: building real access without building a handoutGoing need-blind by design — so the best kid plays whether his family can pay or notScaling by "mega sub-regions" instead of chasing franchise growthTeaching 13-year-olds to represent themselves — agency as the actual productChapters00:00 — The drop-in: running a company between Providence and New York01:30 — Starting at 16, and the gap he was trying to close03:45 — When the pro dream faded and the founder showed up04:30 — The question that runs everything: "what do I wish existed?"21:00 — Access without a handout: the mission-vs-profit tension26:00 — Why profit incentives aren't the enemy, and going need-blind33:00 — Teaching agency: parents, players, and an internal locus of control50:00 — 30 million views, 4,000 applications, and rebuilding the funnel52:00 — The Nike street-soccer project he's directing this week58:00 — Rapid fire: the GOAT, the Prem, and a 2026 World Cup readThis first aired on SportsEpreneur. For the full sports-business take — youth soccer pathways, college recruiting, and pay-to-play — listen to the original conversation there.More Soccer Content from SportsEpreneurHydration Breaks, Fox Ads, and the Americanization of the World Cup2026 World Cup: Groups, Schedule, and What to Watch as the Tournament Is HereTop 5 Soccer Leagues in the World (2025 Rankings: Depth, Players & Vibe)Soccer: The World's Most Popular Sport (3.5 Billion Fans, and Rising in the U.S.)Connect with BrandoInstagram: @y4yfc · brandobabini.com · y4yfc.com · LinkedIn: Brando BabiniEntrepreneur Perspectives is produced by QuietLoud Studios — a KazSource brand. Connect with Eric: X / LinkedIn

Most youth coaches never get to see the full arc. They get a team for a season or two, maybe three, and then the team changes, the club changes, the coach changes, or the players scatter. That makes it difficult to truly understand what development looks like over time. In this episode, we speak with […]

I sat down with Andy Barrero, Director of Coaching at OC Premier Academy Futsal, for a fascinating look at how youth soccer development differs between the US and South America.Andy shares his firsthand insights on the cultural and environmental factors that shape players on both continents — from how the game is introduced at a young age to the role futsal plays in technical development. It's a conversation that gives coaches, parents, and players a lot to think about.The Inside Scoop Podcast with Neil CrawfordGuest: Andy Barrero, Director of Coaching — OC Premier Academy Futsalocpremieracademy.com

Leander Sharlockens joins us to discuss his new book about the US Men's National Team, The Long Game: U.S. Men's Soccer and Its Savage, Four-Decade Journey to the Top, or Thereabouts, and we trace the uneven history of the U.S. men's national team, from its early struggles and the 1950 win over England through the long period when the programme was underfunded and disorganised to today's hopes in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.Patreon members get extra time: 15 more minutes, in which you get to see behind the scenes and find out how the book was written. You can subscribe here: https://www.patreon.com/cw/15MinuteBookClubBuy The Long Game: U.S. Men's Soccer and Its Savage, Four-Decade Journey to the Top, or Thereabouts at our Bookshop.org shop. Support authors, indie bookshops and us!US Link: https://bookshop.org/a/118682/9780593653876UK Amazon Link: https://amzn.eu/d/0el47ixpVisit our Bookshop with books from all of our guests via the links below:(UK) https://uk.bookshop.org/shop/15MinuteBookClub(US) https://bookshop.org/shop/15MinuteBookClub0:00 Introduction to U.S. Soccer3:17 Title IX's Soccer Boom6:19 From Glory to Collapse7:34 Team America Disaster10:28 Youth Soccer and Dropout11:51 A Country, Not a Nation13:53 Europe Beckons American Players16:33 Adu's Rise and Fall17:56 Choosing the Book's Profiles19:45 The Berhalter Debate21:24 World Cup ExpectationsPatreon members get extra time: 15 more minutes, in which you get to see behind the scenes and find out how the book was written. You can subscribe here: https://www.patreon.com/cw/15MinuteBookClubWatch the video version: https://www.youtube.com/@15MinuteBook_ClubBuy [INSERT BOOK TITLE] at our Bookshop.org shop. Support authors, indie bookshops and us!UK Link: US Link: Visit our Bookshop with books from all of our guests via the links below:(UK) https://uk.bookshop.org/shop/15MinuteBookClub(US) https://bookshop.org/shop/15MinuteBookClub Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

United States House Representative Adam Smith (WA-9) spoke with Lobbing Scorchers' Noah Riffe about the World Cup in Seattle, Smith's personal experience with youth soccer in America, and the Iran War deal signed by Trump.Follow Lobbing Scorchers: YouTube Instagram Bluesky TikTok Facebook Ari Liljenwall Noah Riffe Niko MorenoSPONSORSQED Coffee - a Seattle based roaster, coffee shop and coffee subscription service. Visit them in person at one of the three Seattle locations or online and use code ‘LS74' for 25% off across the site.Haxan Ferments - Specializing in unique, small-batch fermented hot sauces and vinegars, Haxan Ferments is handcrafted in Georgetown and made with the best local ingredients from across the Pacific Northwest. Use Code LS for a FREE Hot Sauce w/ purchase!Sounder at Heart - Our network host and biggest supporter, Sounder at Heart covers the Seattle Sounders, Seattle Reign, and MUCH MORE! Subscribe and Support to the BEST independent Seattle Soccer coverage.Podium Edmonds - Located at 114 4th Ave N, just off Main Street in the heart of Downtown Edmonds, come shop and explore the best menswear in the Pacific Northwest. Tell them Lobbing Scorchers sent you!Full Pull Wines - Founded in 2009, they the best boutique wines of the world to members, with special focus on our home, the Pacific Northwest.MLS Store - New year, new gear! The 2026 MLS jerseys are here, and MLSStore is the ultimate destination for every fan. Every purchase helps support our show!Lobbing Scorchers is a production of Just Once Media.Lobbing Scorchers is a Seattle Sounders and MLS focused show brought to you by Sounder at Heart. Hosted by Major League Soccer's Ari Liljenwall and Producer Noah Riffe. Join us as we lob our scorching takes on the American soccer landscape, Seattle Sounders, Major League Soccer, USMNT and more.Contact: lobbingscorchers@justoncemedia.com

The Youth Soccer Tournament That Was Never Meant to EndBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dark-mysteries-unsolved-mysteries-forgotten-secrets-unanswered-questions--5684156/support.Darkest Mysteries Online

Host Bill Donohue welcomes author Karen Scholl, whose book Surviving Soccer: The Chill Parent's Guide to Carpools, Calendars, Coaches, Clubs, and Corner Kicks takes a humorous look at the often chaotic world of youth soccer parenting.With the World Cup creating excitement around the sport, Scholl joins the show to share stories from her years as a soccer mom, along with practical tips for handling packed schedules, endless carpools, team politics, and the challenges of supporting young athletes without getting caught up in the pressure.Along the way, she offers plenty of funny and relatable anecdotes that will resonate with parents who have spent weekends on the sidelines, reminding listeners that while youth sports can be hectic, they can also create some of the most rewarding family memories.Show Takeaways:Karen Scholl discusses the unpredictable nature of youth soccer schedules, which change frequently, complicating parents' lives significantly.The importance of carpooling among soccer parents is emphasized, highlighting its potential to ease logistical challenges of getting children to games.Scholl humorously compares navigating youth soccer to a game of Chutes and Ladders, capturing the chaotic journey of soccer parenting.She reflects on the emotional complexities of witnessing injuries, noting the instinct to rush to a child's side despite the necessity for restraint.The show highlights the unique social dynamics of sitting in specific areas during games, where parents navigate team loyalty and community interactions.Scholl shares insights on the pressure of punctuality for parents, equating timely arrivals at games to a reflection of their worth as individuals.

On the June 13 WBGO Journal, the FIFA World Cup's impact on youth soccer, a look back at the Bernie Goetz trial and a chat with champion wrestler James Green

In this episode I'm responding to a comment from our Anytime Soccer Training Facebook group that puts most of the blame on MLS and closed-circle systems for the problems in youth soccer. And honestly, there are some valid points there. We do need a stronger federation, a more open pyramid system, and better accountability across the board.But the more I dug into it, the more I realized — this is a lot more complicated than pointing the finger at one organization.Yes, MLS has influence. But club soccer's high costs aren't primarily driven by league structure. They're driven by what parents want and expect. Paid coaches. Multiple training days per week. National league competition. That demand exists regardless of how the system is set up at the top.I also talk about why bringing in more professional academies doesn't solve the cost problem for the average family, how the lack of a clear ranking system lets clubs market themselves without real accountability, and why those international comparisons you see online are almost always missing key context — coaching compensation, training frequency, facility costs, season length all matter before you can make a fair comparison.There's room to improve the system, no question. But a lot of what's driving costs comes down to cultural expectations around what youth sports should look like in America — and that's the harder, messier conversation nobody wants to have.

Fluent Fiction - Swedish: From Doubt to Triumph: Lars' Journey to Soccer Success Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/sv/episode/2026-05-29-07-38-19-sv Story Transcript:Sv: Vinden susade lätt genom träden runt den gröna fotbollsplanen, och solen lös starkt från den blå vårhimlen.En: The wind lightly rustled through the trees surrounding the green soccer field, and the sun shone brightly from the blue spring sky.Sv: Det var den sista dagen för uttagningarna till skolans fotbollslag.En: It was the last day of tryouts for the school soccer team.Sv: Lars stod på planen, hans händer svettiga trots det svala vårvädret.En: Lars stood on the field, his hands sweaty despite the cool spring weather.Sv: Han såg sig omkring och märkte Ingrid, som redan värmde upp med bollen.En: He looked around and noticed Ingrid, who was already warming up with the ball.Sv: Hennes rörelser var smidiga och naturliga, som om hon alltid hade en fotboll vid sina fötter.En: Her movements were smooth and natural, as if she always had a soccer ball at her feet.Sv: Lars kände en klump i magen men valde att ignorera sina tvivel.En: Lars felt a knot in his stomach but chose to ignore his doubts.Sv: "Jag ska klara det," mumlade han tyst för sig själv.En: "I will make it," he quietly mumbled to himself.Sv: Hans dröm var att säkra en plats i laget, inte bara för att spela fotboll utan också för att visa sig själv och sin familj att hårt arbete kan övervinna naturlig talang.En: His dream was to secure a spot on the team, not just to play soccer but also to prove to himself and his family that hard work can overcome natural talent.Sv: Lars hade redan bestämt sig för att öva extra varje morgon i en vecka.En: Lars had already decided to practice extra every morning for a week.Sv: Han gick upp tidigt, även innan solen, och sprang runt den tomma planen innan skolan började.En: He got up early, even before the sun, and ran around the empty field before school started.Sv: Smärtan i benen hade blivit en ständig följeslagare, men han låtsades inte om det.En: The pain in his legs had become a constant companion, but he pretended not to notice it.Sv: Han fokuserade på att bli bättre, steg för steg.En: He focused on becoming better, step by step.Sv: Den avgörande stunden närmade sig.En: The crucial moment approached.Sv: Tränaren blåste i visselpipan för att starta matchen.En: The coach blew his whistle to start the match.Sv: Lars kände jordens fasta mark under sina fötter.En: Lars felt the solid ground beneath his feet.Sv: Bollen rullade mot honom, och han hade blicken fast på den.En: The ball rolled toward him, and he kept his eyes fixed on it.Sv: Han visste vad tränaren ville se – samarbete, precision, mod.En: He knew what the coach wanted to see—teamwork, precision, courage.Sv: När matchen nådde sitt klimax, fick Lars bollen.En: As the match reached its climax, Lars got the ball.Sv: Ingrid fanns där, redo för en perfekt passning.En: Ingrid was there, ready for a perfect pass.Sv: Det var det säkra valet.En: It was the safe choice.Sv: Men något inom honom tände en gnista.En: But something inside him sparked.Sv: Han såg en öppning mellan de två försvararna och bestämde sig.En: He saw an opening between the two defenders and made his decision.Sv: I nästa ögonblick sparkade han bollen med all sin kraft och fokus.En: In the next moment, he kicked the ball with all his strength and focus.Sv: Lars såg bollen flyga mot mål.En: Lars watched the ball fly toward the goal.Sv: Allt blev tyst i några hjärtslag tills bollen träffade nätet.En: Everything went silent for a few heartbeats until the ball hit the net.Sv: Målet var gjort.En: The goal was scored.Sv: Hela laget rusade mot Lars, jublande, inklusive Ingrid.En: The whole team rushed toward Lars, cheering, including Ingrid.Sv: Tränaren nickade uppskattande, och Lars kände hur axlarna lättade från osäkerhetens tyngd.En: The coach nodded appreciatively, and Lars felt the weight of uncertainty lift from his shoulders.Sv: När han gick av planen, möttes han av Karin, som hade följt matchen från sidan av planen.En: As he walked off the field, he was met by Karin, who had followed the match from the sidelines.Sv: "Du gjorde det!"En: "You did it!"Sv: ropade hon glatt och gav honom en klapp på ryggen.En: she shouted happily, giving him a pat on the back.Sv: Lars log varmt, full av stolthet och lättnad.En: Lars smiled warmly, full of pride and relief.Sv: När den svenska nationaldagen närmade sig kändes varje vitsippa i diket lite ljusare.En: As the Swedish National Day approached, every wood anemone in the ditch seemed a little brighter.Sv: Lars förstod att drömmar och hårt arbete kunde gå hand i hand.En: Lars understood that dreams and hard work could go hand in hand.Sv: Han hade lärt sig vikten av att tro på sig själv och att ansträngning kunde vara minst lika värdefullt som medfödd talang.En: He had learned the importance of believing in himself and that effort could be just as valuable as innate talent.Sv: Det var en vår han aldrig skulle glömma, fylld av insikt och nyfunnen styrka.En: It was a spring he would never forget, filled with insight and newfound strength.Sv: Och när sommaren nalkades, visste Lars att han äntligen hade tagit klivet mot sina drömmars mål.En: And as summer approached, Lars knew he had finally taken the step toward his dream goal. Vocabulary Words:rustled: susadesurrounding: runtnotice: märktesmooth: smidigainnate: medfödddespite: trotssecure: säkradoubt: tvivelovercome: övervinnaconstant: ständigcompanion: följeslagarepretend: låtsadescrucial: avgörandewhistle: visselpipanclimax: klimaxurge: gnistaopening: öppningdefender: försvararnacheering: jublandeappreciatively: uppskattandeuncertainty: osäkerhetsidelines: sidan av planenapproach: nalkadesinsight: insiktstrength: styrkaeffort: ansträngningtalent: talangbelieve: trospotted: märkterelief: lättnad

In this episode, we sit down with West Michigan native BJ Snow, the newly appointed Vice President of Sporting Operations and Strategy for MLS Next Pro expansion side AC Grand Rapids. BJ breaks down what his role looks like day-to-day, how he'll collaborate with Darrius Barnes to build a competitive roster and coaching staff, and what fans in Grand Rapids can expect from this exciting new club. We also dive into the club's plans for developing a grassroots academy deeply connected to the West Michigan soccer community — one built to develop local talent and create a real pathway to the first team. Plus, BJ shares his thoughts on Amway Stadium, the club's brand new 8,500-seat home in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids, and why it could be a game-changer for soccer in the region.If you loved this episode, drop us a review and rating — it genuinely helps us grow! ⚽

Brooks Laimbeer sits down with Skip Gilbert, former CEO of US Youth Soccer, for a candid and thought-provoking conversation about the state of youth soccer in America — and what needs to change. Skip recently authored a bold 5-page document titled "The Future of Youth Soccer: A Call for Structural Change," and in this episode, he breaks it all down. From the fragmented landscape of youth soccer organizations to the urgent need for unification under a single governing body — whether that's U.S. Soccer or MLS — Skip makes a compelling case for why structural reform isn't just helpful, it's necessary. The conversation also dives into the value of multi-sport athletes, why specializing too early may be doing more harm than good, and how the soccer ecosystem needs to create meaningful pathways for players who don't reach the elite 11v11 level — because the game should have a place for everyone. Whether you're a parent, coach, club director, or simply passionate about the growth of the game in America, this is a must-listen episode.If you loved this episode, drop us a review and rating — it genuinely helps us grow! ⚽

Brando Babini started Youth 4 Youth FC when he was 16 after realizing his own soccer path was changing. Instead of walking away from the game, he built something for the players coming next.Eric Kasimov talks with Brando about player-led development, college soccer recruiting, pay-to-play, MLS, the World Cup, parents, leadership, and why young players need mentorship from people who have lived the journey.Topics covered:Why Brando started Youth 4 Youth FCWhat player-led mentorship looks like in youth soccerHow college soccer recruiting is changingWhy goalkeepers face a difficult pathThe impact of international players on domestic recruitingWhy pay-to-play remains a major problemHow players can take ownership of their journeyWhy street soccer and culture still matterChapters00:00 — Brando Babini, Youth 4 Youth FC, and building while at Brown00:50 — Starting Youth 4 Youth at 1602:15 — A winding recruiting journey and choosing a different soccer path03:23 — When the pro dream shifts into something else04:13 — What Brando wished existed when he was younger05:05 — Street soccer, Nike, and expression beyond exposure05:45 — College soccer recruiting and the transfer portal07:00 — International players and eligibility questions08:00 — Protecting the domestic player pathway08:36 — The goalkeeper recruiting problem11:26 — Building a better domestic soccer system12:00 — MLS, USL, and the future of soccer in the U.S.14:13 — Charlotte FC, accessibility, and the live soccer experience16:20 — Where MLS fits compared to global leagues19:13 — How the World Cup can change U.S. soccer20:00 — Breaking pay-to-play barriers23:08 — Showcases, costs, and why talent should be free to show24:00 — Profit incentives, player development, and investment27:00 — Subsidizing players and creating access28:00 — Game time, competition, and player development31:20 — Parents, pressure, and letting players own the journey34:05 — Scaling Youth 4 Youth through regions36:10 — Brown University, professors, and entrepreneurial flexibility38:00 — Why college can still matter40:30 — Leadership, teammates, and mental toughness43:00 — Internal control and handling adversity47:00 — Content, visibility, and Youth 4 Youth's growth49:00 — Nike Toma, street soccer, and culture51:00 — Messi, Ronaldo, the Premier League, and global soccer52:50 — Best players in the world today54:38 — World Cup predictions and the U.S. path57:00 — How to find Youth 4 Youth FCConnect with Brando Babini | Youth 4 Youth FC Brando Babini on LinkedIn | InstagramYouth 4 Youth FCConnect with Eric & SportsEpreneurSportsEpreneur.com | X | LinkedInEric on LinkedIn | XRelated SportsEpreneur ContentWhen Merit Gets Messy: College Recruiting in Soccer, Hockey, and LacrosseThe State of Youth SportsCollege Recruiting Tips For International Student-AthletesThe Real Cost of Youth Sports in 2026: What Families Actually SpendSoccer Content by SportsEpreneurThe Pressure Placed on Kids in Youth SportsNIL Rules in 2026: What Athletes, Families, and Coaches Need to KnowHigh School Athletes and NIL: The Future of Youth SportsMake Youth Sports Fun Again

Karen Scholl, author of Surviving Soccer, joins We Are Soccer to talk about the hilarious — and sometimes chaotic — reality of life as a soccer parent. From logging endless miles on the road to soccer tournaments, to hunting down a decent dinner after late-night practices, to doing a last-minute gear check before the big match, Karen gets it. She's lived it — and she wrote the book on it. Literally. Surviving Soccer is a witty, relatable read packed with fun quizzes to help you figure out exactly what kind of soccer parent you are. Whether you're the sideline screamer, the carpool hero, or the snack-bag legend, this book will have you laughing out loud and nodding along.

Former college soccer star and Met Oval's Sporting Director Jeffrey Saunders joins SportsJam with Doug Doyle

American soccer has a way of selling people the dream while hiding the machinery underneath. In this episode, we sit down with Kirk Kinsey to unpack what he calls “McSoccer” — the fake development pathways, the tournament-win marketing, the college-scholarship sales pitch, and the closed-system incentives that keep parents, players, and coaches trapped inside a […]

Carlos Bocanegra joins Jason Longshore to talk about Atlanta FC, his new boutique youth club built on a model American youth soccer rarely sees: one team per age group, one dedicated coach per team, and a family-first environment where parents get the training session plan after every practice and are welcome at team talks. Bocanegra talks about why he stopped playing soccer for nine months in high school because of a bad coaching experience, why the late bloomer is the player most at risk in the current system, and what he hopes Atlanta FC can do to start changing the culture of youth development nationally. Jason adds context on the staff: Liam Curran, nine years at Atlanta United and currently working with U.S. Youth National Teams, as Director of Goalkeeping, and Dr. Ryan Alexander, founding High Performance Director at Atlanta United, in the same role at Atlanta FC. Tryouts are May 18 through 20 at Oglethorpe University in Brookhaven. More at atlantafootballclub.com. Then it's What's On Tap, sponsored by Michelob Ultra, official beer sponsor of FIFA World Cup 26. Arsenal are going to Budapest for their first Champions League final in 20 years. Jason breaks down the most statistically dominant European campaign any English club has put together in the modern format, what Mikel Arteta has had to manage to get there, and why dismissing the PSG-Bayern first leg as poorly defended is the wrong take entirely. Preview of tomorrow's second leg in Munich, where Bayern need two goals and both managers have said neither team is coming to defend. The 3-4-3, brought to you by Ford, closes the show. Local stories cover the AU2 road win over Carolina Core, the full boys high school quarterfinal bracket with all four classifications, and the girls semifinal picture including Model's 6-0 win in Rome with Emily Gentry's first-half hat trick. Four headlines: Arsenal's Premier League title door opens wider after City drop points against Everton, the Neymar assault allegation at Santos involving Robinho Jr., Mourinho extension talks accelerating at Benfica with Real Madrid circling and a ten-day release clause window approaching, and Hearts three points clear of Celtic with three matches left chasing the first Scottish title by a club outside the Old Firm since Sir Alex Ferguson's Aberdeen in 1985. Three smile stories: the Rosario Central dog who turned out to belong to a Newell's Old Boys family, Cooper Sanchez getting better every single match and deserving national attention he is not getting, and the crowd in Rome for Model's state quarterfinal win.

Merzi founded the 703 Warriors, a free, high-quality youth soccer program in Arlington, Va. He joins Belz to talk about how it got started, how he runs training, whether what he's doing is scalable and some of the nitty-gritty challenges and triumphs of the work. Check out the 703 Warriors YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@703warriors And their website: https://www.703warriors.com/ Skip the ads! Subscribe to Scuffed on Patreon and get all episodes ad-free, plus any bonus episodes. Patrons at $5 a month or more also get access to Clip Notes, a video of key moments on the field we discuss on the show, plus all patrons get access to our private Discord server, live call-in shows, and the full catalog of historic recaps we've made: https://www.patreon.com/scuffedAlso, check out Boots on the Ground, our USWNT-focused spinoff podcast headed up by Tara and Vince. They are cooking over there, you can listen here: https://boots-on-the-ground.simplecast.comAnd check out our MERCH, baby. We have better stuff than you might think: https://www.scuffedhq.com/store Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This one cuts deep. Gary Kleiban goes straight at Landon Donovan's latest round of youth soccer criticism and explains exactly why it misses the mark by a mile. Donovan, like many former American pros, points the finger downward at youth coaches, parents, and clubs. Gary, drawing from decades of real experience across every level of […]

Jimmy Conrad, Charlie Davies, and Tony Meola look back on a weekend filled with notable milestones for the likes of Mathis Albert, Joe Scally, and Alex Freeman. With Christian Pulisic on a 16-game run without scoring in Serie A, the guys discuss whether Max Allegri's tactics are to blame or if something deeper is at play. Then, former USMNT captain Carlos Bocanegra joins to discuss his newly-launched youth club Atlanta FC, his thoughts on the current national team's backline, and his expectations for the 2026 World Cup. And the guys talk movers and shakers in their projected 26-man roster. Does Matt Turner's form in MLS warrant a starting spot? Will Gio Reyna and/or Diego Luna crack Mauricio Pochettino's list? Call It What You Want is available for free on the Audacy app as well as Apple Podcasts, Spotify and wherever else you listen to podcasts.  Follow the Call It What You Want team on X:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@JimmyConrad⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ @CharlieDavies9⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@TMeola1⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit the ⁠betting arena on CBSSports.com⁠ for all the latest in ⁠sportsbook reviews⁠ and ⁠sportsbook promos⁠ for ⁠betting on soccer⁠ For more soccer coverage from CBS Sports, visit ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/soccer/⁠ To hear more from the CBS Sports Podcast Network, visit ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/podcasts/⁠ Watch UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, UEFA Europa Conference League, UEFA Women's Champions League, EFL Championship, EFL League Cup, Carabao Cup, Serie A, Coppa Italia, CONCACAF Nations League, CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers, Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, NWSL, Scottish Premiership, AFC Champion League by subscribing to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Paramount+⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit the betting arena on CBS Sports.com: ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/betting/⁠ For all the latest in sportsbook reviews: ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/betting/news/sportsbook-promos/⁠ And sportsbook promos: ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/betting/news/sportsbook-promos/ To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Every club in my area says the same thing — high quality, low cost, player-centered. So how do you actually choose? In this episode, I share how I'm thinking through it, what my non-negotiables are, and the one thing I look for that at least points me in the right direction.

We just wrapped one of our favorite episodes with Rory O’Neill, a passionate 14-year veteran coaching youth soccer in central Pennsylvania. Rory came on fresh from the emotional grind of tryouts for his U13 MLS Next team — evaluating 150 kids and delivering tough news that no one enjoys. We explore why tryout season feels […]

Clint Dempsey headlines a good-to-great episode, but first Jimmy Conrad, Charlie Davies, and Benny Feilhaber get to the mystery of Tony Meola's whereabouts and react to Türkiye star Arda Güler being shut down for the rest of the club season. The crew also breaks down a busy midweek for Americans abroad. Benny wonders how Mauricio Pochettino might shape the USMNT midfield, and if there is a logical case for benching Christian Pulisic at the World Cup... Then, it's time to hear from USMNT legend Clint Dempsey who opens up about his new docuseries “You Don't Know Where I'm From Dawg,” and doesn't hold back on the current state of youth soccer, Poch's substitutions, and his thoughts about the team's chances at the World Cup. Plus, the guys try to make sense of a wild night in MLS where defending was optional, and look ahead to the weekend's slate of games. Call It What You Want is available for free on the Audacy app as well as Apple Podcasts, Spotify and wherever else you listen to podcasts.  Follow the Call It What You Want team on X:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@JimmyConrad⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ @CharlieDavies9⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@TMeola1⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit the ⁠betting arena on CBSSports.com⁠ for all the latest in ⁠sportsbook reviews⁠ and ⁠sportsbook promos⁠ for ⁠betting on soccer⁠ For more soccer coverage from CBS Sports, visit ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/soccer/⁠ To hear more from the CBS Sports Podcast Network, visit ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/podcasts/⁠ Watch UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, UEFA Europa Conference League, UEFA Women's Champions League, EFL Championship, EFL League Cup, Carabao Cup, Serie A, Coppa Italia, CONCACAF Nations League, CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers, Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, NWSL, Scottish Premiership, AFC Champion League by subscribing to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Paramount+⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit the betting arena on CBS Sports.com: ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/betting/⁠ For all the latest in sportsbook reviews: ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/betting/news/sportsbook-promos/⁠ And sportsbook promos: ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/betting/news/sportsbook-promos/ To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Vince and Belz sat down with Wolfgang Heilmann, who oversees Borussia Monchengladbach's "international academy," in the hours before Gladbach drew 1-1 with Mainz on Sunday (we saw a Scally goal). Most of the conversation is about youth development in general: how Gladbach's U9 team plays small-sided games on the weekends vs other clubs, why academy players are expected to be humble, and much more. Skip the ads! Subscribe to Scuffed on Patreon and get all episodes ad-free, plus any bonus episodes. Patrons at $5 a month or more also get access to Clip Notes, a video of key moments on the field we discuss on the show, plus all patrons get access to our private Discord server, live call-in shows, and the full catalog of historic recaps we've made: https://www.patreon.com/scuffedAlso, check out Boots on the Ground, our USWNT-focused spinoff podcast headed up by Tara and Vince. They are cooking over there, you can listen here: https://boots-on-the-ground.simplecast.comAnd check out our MERCH, baby. We have better stuff than you might think: https://www.scuffedhq.com/store Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today's question in the Anytime Soccer Training Facebook group was a familiar one: winning or losing at the youth level has little to no correlation with development — true or false? In this quick gut-reaction episode, I explain why I think "no correlation" is a cop-out, what it actually means to define development in a youth soccer context, and why if you're going to dismiss the scoreboard you'd better replace it with something just as measurable. I also get into the elephant in the room most coaches won't touch — the accountability piece — and lay out the specific markers I'd want to see instead.

I saw a post that said you can't develop Ronaldinhos unless you let kids try Ronaldinho things — and while part of me agrees, most of me pushes back hard. In this quick audio diary, I explain why I don't believe structured, sanctioned games are the place for kids to upskill, and why "be creative, try stuff" can quietly become code for a lack of accountability. If you haven't practiced the move a thousand times on your own, the game isn't the stage to debut it — and I'll tell you exactly what I'd rather see instead.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we spin through a series of completely normal conversations that somehow include fashion critiques no one asked for, identifying your spouse by their sneeze, and the weaponization of the phrase “my love.”Winthrop is back on the field after a long break, and it turns out youth sports are not just about winning (although… there was some winning).Also:Preventing beverage-related disastersAmanda continues to live like it's 1989Listener emailsBeing a tourist in your own townIt's marriage, parenting, minor arguments, and the ongoing process of raising children while also raising ourselves.Super Familiar with The Wilsons  Find us on instagram at instagram.com/superfamiliarwiththewilsonsand on YoutubeContact us! familiarwilsons@gmail.comA Familiar Wilsons Production

What does real player development actually look like—and why are so many systems missing it?In this episode of Chat By The Pitch, Ian Babcock sits down with Erin Medina, COO of Forms Residency and Forms Academy, to break down a completely different approach to youth soccer development.From her journey through the Canadian national team to building one of the largest youth clubs in the country, Erin shares what she's learned about development, structure, and what kids actually need to succeed.They dive into the reality of today's youth soccer environment, the pressure of competition, and why a residency-style model focused on individual growth, education, and balance may be the future of the game.This conversation is for players, parents, and coaches trying to understand how to truly develop—not just compete.Key Talking PointsErin Medina's journey from Canada's national team to youth soccer leadershipThe impact of early coaching and development environmentsWhy player development is not a linear pathTransitioning from player to business leader in youth soccerBuilding Sting into a national powerhouseThe importance of early technical development windowsWhy traditional training models fall shortThe role of individual development vs team trainingWhat makes Forms Academy's methodology differentWhy residency programs require a different type of athleteQuotes from Erin Medina“Nobody's journey is linear.”“We're not just developing players—we're developing people.”“There's only so much time before that technical window closes.”“The youth game is where you can really impact kids.”“Development requires meaningful time—not just an hour and a half twice a week.”“We're creating an environment where kids can focus on development without pressure.”“The model is not for everyone—and that's okay.”“Kids need balance to avoid burnout.”“We're building athletes that can move and think differently.”“It's about preparing them for performance, not just chasing wins.”Connect with Erin Medina / FormsErin Medina

We sat down with Josh Kremers, the newly appointed head coach of the Pittsburgh Riverhounds USL 2 side, for an in-depth conversation about what this exciting addition means for the club. Josh breaks down the key advantages of having a U23 team, how the Riverhounds plan to utilize it, and what it means for the future of the organization. He also gives us an inside look at the Riverhounds Academy and the role it plays in the club's long-term vision.

We sat down with Beadling Coach, Matt Fonagy. Matt coaches the 2008 and 2010 Beadling GA teams. He sat down with Brooks to discuss the Adidas Elite Girls Showcase and talk about the GA program at Beadling.

As the Naperville Park District celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Naperville Youth Soccer program, Soccer Coordinator Betsy Nyman discusses program traditions, how it has evolved, and her own personal connection to the program.

Before I keep sharing opinions, I want you to understand where I'm coming from. In this episode, I lay out the fundamental principles that shape everything I say — so you can filter my advice through the right lens.

This is just a quick clarification on what people really mean when they bring up promotion and relegation in youth soccer. I share my perspective on how the idea gets misunderstood and what actually matters for kids and development.

Peer respite setbacks, a Springfield school board recall and Spokane students joining pro soccer academies lead this week's roundup.

Coaches: Order the new MSC Youth Coaching eBooks below: https://www.modernsoccercoach.com/shop In this episode of the Modern Soccer Coach Podcast, Gary is joined by Haris Memisevic, Technical Director and Head of Coaching at Virginia Revolution, for a deep conversation on youth session design and coach development. One of the big themes we explore is how often coaches confuse high tempo with high learning. We talk about why fast sessions don't automatically lead to intelligent players, how over-coaching and over-explaining can limit understanding, and why the design of the session should do the heavy lifting, not constant coach intervention. We also dive into: - Simplifying session planning for youth players - Intervention strategies that protect flow and learning - Freedom within a framework in club curriculum design - Why game-day pressure pulls coaches away from their beliefs - The overlooked importance of coach personality at the youth level This is a conversation for youth coaches, technical directors, and club leaders who want to build better learning environments, not just busier sessions. Check out the latest youth coaching resources, session ideas, and eBooks at ModernSoccerCoach.com Explore MSC Insider for webinars, session drops, and full access to our growing youth library. If you enjoyed the episode, please like, subscribe, and share with a coach who's thinking deeply about session design.

In this solo episode of Chat By The Pitch, Ian Babcock reflects on years of learning as a soccer parent, coach, and constant student of the game. This episode challenges the obsession with early results and reframes success around development, environment, communication, and joy.Ian explores what youth soccer is getting right, where it's falling short, and what parents, coaches, and clubs can do—starting today—to create healthier, more sustainable experiences for young athletes. This conversation is for families who care about long-term growth, not just the scoreboard.Key Talking Points1. Why development matters more than early wins2. The danger of overscheduling and athlete burnout3. Creating safe environments for learning and failure4. Why kids need space to be kids—not mini professionals5. The importance of emotional connection between coaches and players6. How communication breakdowns damage player development7. Culture as the foundation of healthy teams and clubs8. The realities and consequences of pay-to-play youth sports9. How sideline behavior shapes athlete confidence and creativity10. Redefining success as lifelong love of the game, not outcomesQuotes from Ian Babcock1. “Our job isn't to push kids toward greatness. It's to walk beside them so they can define what greatness means for themselves.”2. “Winning early doesn't create better players. It usually creates burned-out ones.”3. “Kids don't fall out of love with sports all at once. They drift—from joy to obligation, from play to performance.”4. “If a child feels safe enough to fail, they'll be brave enough to grow.”5. “We're raising humans first. Athletes second. When we get that order right, everything else gets easier.”6. “Development isn't about today's score. It's about who the athlete becomes over time.”7. “Overscheduling doesn't build commitment—it slowly erodes joy.”8. “Culture isn't about winning at all costs. It's about creating an environment kids want to stay in.”9. “When parents, players, and coaches aren't aligned, development breaks down fast.”10. “If a kid still loves the game at 25—or 80—we've done our job.”Connect with Chat By The Pitch

In this episode, we tackle the heated debate around futsal in US soccer. We affirm that futsal is a fantastic tool for building technical skills and tight-space play, but we’ve seen it morph into a grift where it’s sold as the magic fix for America’s systemic issues. We address backlash from figures like Eddie Johnson, […]

Former Atlanta United 2 head coach Steve Cooke is now the Youth Academy Director for Lexington SC in USL Championship and Super League- plus, the Director for the College Advisory ProgramSteve visits SDH AM to talk about the new gig, what's been going on so far, and in-depth what the CAP is doing for the franchise and all its layers...

Building a Youth Soccer Club from Scratch: Challenges and Triumphs In episode 409, we bring on Alec Lemmon, founder of Toca FC, a youth soccer club based in Kansas City. Alec shares his journey of starting the club from ground zero, the challenges faced, and the importance of values like faith, family, and football. We […]

I almost made a mistake that would've killed my son's love for soccer.The advice? "Iron sharpens iron — get him on a team with the best players." It sounded perfect. But three weeks in, everything changed.In this episode, I reveal why the most popular club selection advice is dangerously wrong — and what actually sharpens iron.If you're choosing a club right now, you need to hear this before you sign anything.Ready to start developing your player at home?Get our free 7-Day Ball Mastery Training Plan at: https://anytime-soccer.com/free-soccer-drills-for-kids/

In this episode, we sit down with Lance Rozeboom, former Iowa youth soccer player, Division I collegiate athlete, and professional, to discuss his approach to player development and why he built RFA Futbol Academy around the youngest age groups. Lance shares why the early years are critical to long term development and how he stays hands on with the day to day coaching, environment, and expectations.

In this episode of the Braun Performance & Rehab Podcast, Dan is joined by A.J. DeLaGarza to discuss his career and journey in soccer, from youth to college, professional and beyond.A 14-year Major League Soccer veteran and three-time MLS Cup champion, AJ is known for his versatility, leadership, and consistency on the field, AJ played for top clubs including LA Galaxy, Houston Dynamo, Inter Miami CF, and New England Revolution. A former U.S. National Team and Guam National Team player, with designations of National B US Soccer Coaching License and US Soccer Talent Scout: Level II, he now brings his elite experience and passion for player development to the next generation as the founder of The GoalDen.CAREER HIGHLIGHTS: 2x Youth National Championships / Maryland Gatorade H.S. Player of the Year2x NCAA National Championships / 2014 MLS Humanitarian of the Year3x MLS Supporter Shields / 3x MLS Cup Championships2x LA Galaxy Defender of the Year / US Open Cup ChampionshipFor more on AJ & The Goal Den be sure to check out thegoalden.com @ajd_20 & @thegoalden704Season 6 and 7 of the Braun Performance & Rehab Podcast is brought to you by Pura Health - Bringing ultrasound into every clinician's hand. For more on Pura Health be sure to check out https://www.purahealth.net & @pura.health_ultrasound*SEASON 6 of the Braun Performance & Rehab Podcast is brought to you by Isophit. For more on Isophit, please check out isophit.com and @isophit -BE SURE to use coupon code BraunPR25% to save 25% on your Isophit order!**Season 6 of the Braun Performance & Rehab Podcast is also brought to you by Firefly Recovery, the official recovery provider for Braun Performance & Rehab. For more on Firefly, please check out https://www.recoveryfirefly.com/ or email jake@recoveryfirefly.com***This episode is also powered by Dr. Ray Gorman, founder of Engage Movement. Learn how to boost your income without relying on sessions. Get a free training on the blended practice model by following @raygormandpt on Instagram. DM my name “Dan” to @raygormandpt on Instagram and receive your free breakdown on the model.Episode Affiliates:MoboBoard: BRAWNBODY10 saves 10% at checkout!AliRx: DBraunRx = 20% off at checkout! https://alirx.health/MedBridge: https://www.medbridgeeducation.com/brawn-body-training or Coupon Code "BRAWN" for 40% off your annual subscription!CTM Band: https://ctm.band/collections/ctm-band coupon code "BRAWN10" = 10% off!Ice shaker affiliate link: https://www.iceshaker.com?sca_ref=1520881.zOJLysQzKeMake sure you SHARE this episode with a friend who could benefit from the information we shared!Check out everything Dan is up to by clicking here: https://linktr.ee/braun_prLiked this episode? Leave a 5-star review on your favorite podcast platform

When Frederick emailed me asking how to train his two sons—ages 8 and 10—it took me right back to those early days when I was trying to figure everything out myself. I remember the uncertainty, the frustration, and the feeling that everyone else somehow knew what they were doing… except me.In this episode, I share what I've learned along the way: why structured training matters, how simple routines create momentum, and why mindset and consistency often matter more than natural talent. I also walk through the resources I wish I had earlier—training tools, podcasts, eBooks, and communities that make the journey clearer and far less overwhelming.This episode isn't just about drills or technique. It's about the parenting side of soccer—the role we play in supporting our kids, building confidence, and creating an environment where they can improve and still love the game.

In this episode, I go on a short rant that probably won't make me more popular—but I think it needs to be said. I talk openly about why I don't believe “bad soccer parents” are the biggest problem in youth development, why coaches focus so much on things they can't control, and why the real work still happens Monday through Friday on the training ground. If you're a coach or parent who's tired of hearing that you are the problem, this one is for you.

Week 11 of the college football season was pretty fun, and we're here to talk about it! Also, the Falcons and Colts were in Berlin and YOUTH SOCCER hooligans got Bob all hot and bothered about sportsmanship. Listen, if you must! Has something we said, or failed to say, made you FEEL something? You can tell us all about it by joining the conversation on our Substack or you can send us an email here. Enjoy!Show RundownOpen — Abe Live Bets the Games, and Colts/Falcons15:15 — WGAS Newsbag, Sports Edition! Daboll fired; more player gambling problems29:49 — College games recap!1:04:53 — CIB 2025 Football Pick ‘em Contest update1:14:28 — Wrap-up! The President gets six-seven'ed on television!Relevant Linkage can be found by visiting https://brainiron.substack.com/, where, if you would like to support this and the other podcasting and blogging endeavors of the Brain Iron dot com media empire, you can also become a paying subscriber.The opening and closing themes of Cast Iron Balls were composed by Marc Gillig. For more from Marc, go to tetramermusic.com.

In this episode of the 3four3 podcast, we take a hard look at the evolution of American youth soccer, reflecting on its past and critiquing its present. We discuss how the competitive, merit-based Coast Soccer League once set a high standard for youth soccer, producing top talent through a promotion-relegation system. Fast forward to today, […] The post Ep 401: WTF Happened to Youth Soccer in America? What You Need to Know and Nobody Tells You appeared first on 3four3.

Beyond Goals Mentoring's Michael Parkhurst joins SDH AM to break down the challenges of mentoring - age difference, youth and upper levels, navigating language barriers and differences between men's and women's soccer

Adam Hawk and Ryan Engle discuss the need for rest, why youth sports parents are the worst, and the origin story of the phrase, "Gotta make plans."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this edition of All Sides, we're talking about youth soccer, how it's changed and how it became so big.

A compelling episode with Joey Cascio, who shares his extensive coaching experience and insights gained over 15-20 years. We discuss the recent Club World Cup, where Chelsea surprisingly beat PSG, and dive into coaching philosophy and methodologies. Joey highlights the challenges and joys of youth coaching, such as building a team’s identity and handling parental […] The post Ep 387: Legit Youth Soccer Insights from a Legit Practitioner + Club World Cup Final Conclusions appeared first on 3four3.