The Insider's Lounge podcast

1:13:06

In this episode of The Insider’s Lounge, host Chad McArthur sits down with Iker Nacenta to explore the current and future state of Mexican football through the lens of one of its most shocking recent events — the Club León disqualification from the FIFA Club World Cup. They start by breaking down how multi-club ownership played a role in León’s ban and what it reveals about the structural challenges within Liga MX. Iker unpacks fan reactions, Club León’s response, and the broader consequences for governance in the league. From there, the conversation shifts to the resignation of Juan Carlos Rodriguez, the fractured media rights landscape, and the larger financial and political dynamics that define the Mexican Football Federation today. The two dive into the growing relationship between Liga MX and MLS, the rising trend of American players choosing Liga MX over Europe, and the deeper question: Which country—Mexico or the U.S.—will win the soccer race first in terms of culture, investment, and development? They also look ahead to the 2026 World Cup, assessing whether Mexico is truly positioned to make the most of the opportunity. Iker brings a global lens with insights from sports finance, club ownership, and fan culture, offering a sharp look at what needs to change—and what’s already in motion. This isn’t just about one club missing a tournament—it's about the future direction of an entire footballing nation. Iker's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ikernacenta/ Sports Capital Hub: https://linktr.ee/sportscapitalhub 🎙️ More Insider's Lounge Content: https://linktr.ee/theinsiderslounge Chapters: 00:00 Intro 03:13 Overview of Mexican Soccer 09:03 Club León Disqualified from the FIFA Club World Cup – What Happened? 16:15 Multi-Club Ownership in Mexico: Fan Reactions & Controversy 19:32 Club León’s Response & What Comes Next 26:04 Juan Carlos Rodriguez Resigns & the Fragmented Media Landscape 29:00 Is There Hope for Mexican Soccer’s Future? 37:08 Could a North American Super League Actually Happen? 43:25 Why Are American Players Choosing Liga MX Over Europe? 47:22 Soccer Culture vs. Investment: Will the U.S. or Mexico Win First? 49:33 Is Mexico Ready to Capitalize on the 2026 World Cup? 52:55 Why You Should Support Mexico in 2026 57:40 Quick Fire Questions 1:11:07 Outro…

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Taito Kojima: How He Became Japan’s Youngest Licensed FIFA Agent and CEO of Mundo Rico (S2 E28) 56:05

12 days ago56:05

56:05

In this episode of The Insider’s Lounge, we sit down with Taito Kojima, who shares his remarkable journey to becoming Japan’s youngest licensed FIFA agent and the CEO of Mundo Rico. Taito reflects on his early soccer memories growing up in a football-driven household, guided by the influence of his father—a former professional player. By the age of 12, he was already working in the soccer industry, laying the groundwork for what would become a fast-moving and globally connected career. At just 19, Taito earned his FIFA agent license—overcoming language barriers, age-based skepticism, and the high-pressure exam process along the way. He shares how he began building relationships with clubs across Europe, including a chaotic but pivotal trip to Belgium that led to two key player signings at KV Kortrijk. Taito also breaks down what European clubs look for in Japanese players, why Scandinavian leagues could be the next key destination, and the cultural and competitive challenges players face when moving abroad. Later in the episode, he explains how Mundo Rico identifies and recruits talent, how he’s dealt with stigma as a young professional in soccer, and how he evaluates the right environment for his players to grow. He also opens up about his personal development and the vision he’s building for the future of his agency. 🎙️ More Insider's Lounge Content: https://linktr.ee/theinsiderslounge Chapters: 00:00 Intro 01:00 First Soccer Memories & Playing Background 02:55 Family Influence & Taito’s Father’s Impact 04:37 Working in Professional Soccer at Age 12 13:32 Becoming the Youngest Licensed FIFA Agent at 19 18:09 Language Barrier Challenges with FIFA Agent Exam 19:18 Creating a Soccer Pathway Between Japan & Europe 22:56 How a Chaotic Trip to Belgium Led to Signing Two Players 28:59 What European Clubs Look for in Japanese Players 30:31 Why Scandinavian Leagues Are the Next Step for Japanese Talent 32:32 Challenges Japanese Players Face When Moving Abroad 35:01 How Mundo Rico Scouts and Recruits Players 38:18 Breaking Stereotypes as a Young Professional in Soccer 42:15 Navigating Club Politics and Finding the Right Fit for Players 45:25 Personal and Professional Growth as a Soccer Agent 47:55 Vision and Growth Plans for Mundo Rico 50:02 Quick Fire Questions 54:15 Outro…

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Jassem Osseiran: Saudi Soccer Takeover—Ronaldo’s Impact, Pro League’s Future & 2034 FIFA WC (S2 E27) 1:00:36

19 days ago1:00:36

1:00:36

In this episode of The Insider’s Lounge, Jassem Osseiran breaks down Saudi Arabia’s football revolution—from its rapid transformation to the rise of the Saudi Pro League and the country’s 2034 FIFA World Cup ambitions. We start with Jassem’s personal connection to Saudi Arabia, reflecting on how the country has evolved since his childhood. He discusses the massive shifts in culture, economy, and sports, and how global investments—like PIF’s acquisitions of Newcastle United and other European clubs—have played a key role in shaping Saudi’s growing football presence. The conversation then shifts to Saudi Arabia’s financial power—does the country have unlimited money to invest? And is the Saudi Pro League more of a passion project, like some European club owners, or a sustainable business, similar to the MLS or American ownership models? Jassem dives into the complexities of building a profitable, long-term football ecosystem and whether money alone can solve all challenges. A major talking point is Ronaldo’s influence—what impact has he had on the league, and what happens after he’s gone? Jassem provides insights into the league’s future plans and how Saudi Arabia is preparing for the post-Ronaldo era. We also explore the growth of women’s football in Saudi Arabia and the country’s broader ambitions in sports, leading up to its bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup. Jassem shares details on Saudi’s bigger vision for global football and how the nation is positioning itself as a long-term powerhouse. To wrap up, we hit Jassem with some quick-fire questions, covering bold predictions, emerging trends, and what’s next for Saudi Arabia’s football scene. PlaysOut: https://playsout.com/ B-Engaged: https://www.b-engaged.co.uk/ 🎙️ More Insider's Lounge Content: https://linktr.ee/theinsiderslounge Chapters: 00:00 Intro 03:54 Jassem’s Connection to Saudi Arabia & Its Transformation 11:53 How Saudi’s Global Investments Led to the Pro League Boom 18:46 Does Saudi Arabia Have Unlimited Money to Invest? 21:12 Saudi Pro League: Passion Project or Profitable Business? 24:44 Can Money Solve All of Saudi Football’s Challenges? 28:15 What Happens to the Saudi Pro League After Ronaldo? 31:38 The Future of the Saudi Pro League 37:14 The Rise of Women’s Football in Saudi Arabia 44:14 Saudi Arabia’s 2034 World Cup & Other Major Projects 51:26 Quick-Fire Questions 58:55 Outro…

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Georgia Adderley: The Personal Branding Playbook—Why You Can’t Afford to Ignore It (S2 E26) 40:29

26 days ago40:29

40:29

We kick things off with Georgia reflecting on her younger self’s career expectations vs. reality—how she envisioned her path and the pivotal moments that changed everything. She then takes us through her decision to break into football, what led her to becoming a licensed agent, and the pros and cons of having a background in PR and marketing when working in the industry. From there, we dive into ADD Management, her agency specializing in PR, branding, and talent representation. Georgia explains why personal branding is more important than ever for athletes and who is leading the way in this space. She also gives an inside look at how she evaluates potential clients, what she looks for, and how she helps them craft a brand that extends beyond their playing career. The conversation then shifts to the differences in personal branding between men’s and women’s football—why female athletes often face unique challenges and whether clubs are doing enough to support their players off the pitch when it comes to brand deals and career development. We wrap up with practical advice for anyone looking to break into PR, marketing, or athlete branding, followed by a bold look at the future of personal branding and athlete-led businesses. Georgia shares her predictions on where the industry is headed, the increasing influence of American ownership in European football, and how players can leverage their brand for long-term success. Georgia's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/georgia.add/ Georgia's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgiaadderley/ Add Management Website: https://www.addmgmt.co.uk/ Add Management on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/addmanagement/ 🎙️ More Insider's Lounge Content: https://linktr.ee/theinsiderslounge Chapters: 00:00 Intro 01:16 Career Expectations vs. Reality: What Georgia Envisioned vs. What Happened 03:15 Georgia's Journey: Breaking Into the Football Industry 05:13 A Unique Path to Becoming a Licensed Football Agent 07:16 PR & Marketing Background: Pros and Cons in Football 08:12 What Is ADD Management? PR, Branding & Talent Representation 11:09 Why Athletes Must Prioritize Personal Branding 14:00 Leading Athletes in Personal Brand Development 16:28 What Georgia Looks for in Clients & Their Objectives 21:09 Personal Branding in Men's vs. Women's Football 24:23 Are Clubs Supporting Female Athletes' Careers Off the Pitch? 26:13 Career Advice: Breaking Into PR, Marketing & Athlete Branding 28:18 The Future of Personal Branding & Athlete-Led Businesses 32:29 Quick-Fire Questions 38:35 Outro…

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It's Competence Not Confidence feat. ICNC Co-Founders Sabrina Carrozza & Gabbie Garbe (S2 E25) 39:04

5 weeks ago39:04

39:04

In this episode, we dive into It's Competence Not Confidence (ICNC) with co-founders Sabrina Carrozza and Gabbie Garbe, a movement redefining how young professionals—particularly women—approach success in their careers. They share the story behind ICNC, why competence should be valued over confidence, and how this mindset shift can create real opportunities in the professional world. We break down the ICNC blueprint, discussing its mission, target audience, and long-term vision for reshaping career pathways. Sabrina and Gabbie highlight the role of mentorship, networking, and community support, emphasizing how professionals can build credibility through action rather than perception. As the conversation unfolds, they discuss the legacy they want ICNC to leave and how others can contribute to the movement. They also provide practical advice for those looking to break into competitive industries, sharing key strategies for developing real competence and making a lasting impact. Speaking of how you can support, feel free to check out ICNC’s Instagram and their online shop to learn more and get involved: ICNC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/icnc_itscompetence/ ICNC Website: https://shopicnc.com Chapters: 00:00 Intro 04:02 Looking Back: Did They See This Coming? 08:12 The ICNC Origin Story: How It All Started 15:36 Why Confidence Gets More Attention Than Competence 18:09 The ICNC Blueprint 21:32 Who ICNC is For: Defining the Target Audience 23:42 Building a Legacy: What ICNC Means for Sabrina & Gabbie 27:51 How You Can Support ICNC’s Mission 30:04 Insider Tips for a Career in Sports 34:27 How to Actually Improve Your Competence 37:15 Outro…

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Johann Farhat: From Lebanon to Harvard & Chelsea FC—A Story of Obsession & Persistence (S2 E24) 54:12

6 weeks ago54:12

54:12

In this episode of The Insider’s Lounge, Johann Farhat takes us on a remarkable journey marked by resilience, obsession, and persistence. Growing up in Lebanon after moving back from France, Johann faced early challenges as his family struggled to afford private education. Feeling like an outsider among wealthier classmates, it wasn’t until he found soccer that everything began to change. The sport became his great equalizer—helping him find acceptance, become team captain, and thrive in a way he never had before. Just as his passion for the game grew, Johann made the unexpected decision to turn down a professional soccer contract. Instead of chasing a career on the pitch, he ventured into the entrepreneurial world—only to face the sting of two failed startups. But rather than letting those setbacks define him, Johann leaned into the lessons learned, using those failures as fuel for future success. At one of life’s pivotal crossroads, Johann took a bold leap: applying to Harvard with no plan B. He shares the mindset shift required to take that risk and how unwavering self-belief carried him through. From there, we dive into his approach to goal-setting—breaking down how to set meaningful objectives and, more importantly, actually achieve them. Johann’s persistence truly shines through as he reveals how sheer determination and polite persistence led him to secure a coveted internship at Chelsea FC. He also opens up about his encounters with some of the world’s most elite figures—Arsène Wenger, John Terry, Toto Wolff, and others—and reflects on what truly sets high performers apart. 🎙️ More Insider's Lounge Content: https://linktr.ee/theinsiderslounge Chapters: 00:00 Intro 03:50 Finding Belonging Through Soccer 09:52 Turning Down a Pro Soccer Contract 15:44 Lessons from Two Failed Startups 22:24 How to Process Failure 27:29 Betting on Yourself: Applying to Harvard with No Plan B 31:30 Goal Setting: How to Set and Achieve Big Goals 41:32 Polite Persistence: Landing an Internship at Chelsea FC 50:48 What Sets Elite Performers Apart 53:42 Outro…

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Ethan Reilly - The Secret Playbook to Landing Your DREAM Job in Sports (S2 E23) 54:39

7 weeks ago54:39

54:39

In this episode of The Insider’s Lounge, we sit down with Ethan Reilly, Senior Account Executive at Octagon, one of the world's top sports and entertainment agencies. Beyond his role, Ethan creates sports business content, helping others navigate the process of breaking into the industry and excelling. He has built his career by combining strategic networking, content creation, and hands-on experience, and today, he shares the exact steps to land your DREAM job in sports. We kick things off with Ethan’s journey into the industry, breaking down how he got his start and the pivotal moments that shaped his career. From there, he drops must-know advice for high school and college students who want to break into sports—whether through internships, volunteer work, or simply making the right connections. Next, we dive into one of the biggest game-changers in career-building: How to land coffee chats and Zoom calls with industry leaders. Ethan explains how to stand out on LinkedIn, craft the perfect cold message, and make genuine connections that lead to real opportunities. For students and young professionals, we explore how to maximize college for career success—from choosing the right courses to leveraging campus resources—and answer the big question: Is college even worth it? Then, we shift to resumes and job hunting, uncovering what actually makes a resume pop and how to navigate career detours when things don’t go as planned. Ethan also reveals what it really takes to succeed in your first six months on the job, including the common mistakes most newcomers make. Finally, we explore the power of content creation as a tool for networking and personal branding—why it’s more important than ever and how anyone can use it to build credibility, even with no prior experience. Ethan's Instagram: www.instagram.com/ethan_talks_sport/ Ethan's TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@ethan_talks_sport 🎙️ More Insider's Lounge Content: https://linktr.ee/theinsiderslounge Chapters: 00:00 Intro 01:30 Ethan’s Journey to Working in the Sports Industry 03:44 Advice for High Schoolers Wanting a Career in Sports 09:06 How to Land Coffee Chats & Zoom Calls with Industry Leaders 13:59 Maximizing College for Career Success 18:22 Networking & Overcoming Social Anxiety 23:55 Is College Even Worth It? 29:43 Building a Standout Resume 33:06 Dream Job Detours: Navigating the Job Hunt & Breakthroughs 38:11 Making an Impact in Your First 6 Months on the Job 44:38 Building Your Brand Through Content Creation 50:41 Quick Fire Round 53:55 Outro…

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Japan: The Gem of Asian Football FTS feat. Ryo Nakagawara 2:16:04

7 weeks ago2:16:04

2:16:04

In this episode of The Football Talent Show, hosts Adam Lenges, and Jacek Kulig, are joined by Japanese football expert & data scientist Ryo Nakagawara to talk about all things Japanese football. They discuss the fascinating youth development being done in the country, the upcoming J1-J3 seasons, & some of the biggest domestic talents to look out for in the year ahead! Ryo's X: https://x.com/R_by_Ryo If you enjoyed the episode, feel free to like, comment, and subscribe to stay tuned for future episodes! 🎙 More FTS Content: https://linktr.ee/thefootballtalentshow The Football Talent Show is brought to you by The Insider's Lounge, a virtual studio that brings you exclusive insights and conversations from the world of sports. Follow our journey as we expand with new shows and content: https://linktr.ee/theinsiderslounge Intro & Outro Credit: Chop Chops - Alex Productions Graphics X: https://x.com/Agbanebbie Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unclenebo/ Chapters: 00:00 Intro 03:50 First Japanese Football Memory 10:46 Talent Pipeline & College/High School System 19:25 Unique Characteristics of Japanese Footballers 31:12 J3 League 39:09 J2 League 42:12 Red Bull in Japan 47:49 J1 League 54:06 Japan vs. Other Asian Countries 01:00:24 Shonan Bellmare 01:02:05 FC Tokyo 01:03:23 Foreign Players in Japan 01:11:35 Where Should Japanese Players Start Their European Journey? 01:17:06 Transfer Fees for Japanese Players 01:25:45 Yuto Ozeki 01:34:35 Yotaro Nakajima 01:39:55 Rion Ichihara 01:45:39 Junnosuke Suzuki 01:53:52 Kota Takai 01:56:25 Ryunosuke Sato 02:03:07 Ryotaro Araki 02:12:56 Outro…

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Giulio Tedeschi: Inside UEFA’s €1 Billion Plan & The Truth About Women’s Soccer Contracts (S2 E22) 1:04:47

8 weeks ago1:04:47

1:04:47

In this episode of The Insider’s Lounge, Chad McArthur sits down with Giulio Tedeschi, a Licensed FIFA Agent and CEO & Founder of Tedeschi & Partners, to break down UEFA’s €1 billion investment in women’s soccer, the realities of contracts, and the economic models shaping the game. Giulio shares how he found a niche in women’s soccer, explaining its rapid growth and the key moments that have shaped the European women’s soccer landscape. The conversation covers contract disparities, transfer rules, and maternity policies, highlighting clubs like AC Milan leading the way in implementing changes. They dive into UEFA’s €1 billion investment, discussing its impact on leagues, infrastructure, and salaries, and whether it will truly reshape the sport or if deeper issues still need addressing. The discussion then shifts to single-entity clubs like London City Lionesses vs. club-backed teams like Arsenal W.F.C., analyzing which model is better economically, for player development, and for the long-term growth of the game—or if the structure even matters. Having both attended WSL games, Chad and Giulio discuss their experiences, the unique benefits of the league, and how it is attracting a new demographic of fans. To wrap up, Giulio shares which league outside the WSL and NWSL is best positioned to compete at the very top in the near future, before ending with quick-fire questions. 🎙️ More Insider's Lounge Content: https://linktr.ee/theinsiderslounge Chapters: 00:00 Intro 00:36 Was Becoming a Soccer Agent Always the Goal? 04:04 Finding a Niche in Women’s Soccer 08:18 The Appeal of Women’s Soccer 12:09 The Evolution of Women’s Soccer in Europe 20:56 Breaking Down Women’s Pro Soccer Contracts 28:44 UEFA’s €1 Billion Investment in Women’s Soccer 35:41 How Women’s Youth Soccer Works in Europe 40:29 Single-Entity vs. Club-Backed Women’s Teams 46:05 WSL Insights & Why Women’s Soccer Attracts a New Audience 50:06 Women’s Soccer’s Sleeping Giant – The Next Big Market? 55:59 Quick-Fire Questions 1:03:44 Outro…

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The Football Talent Show Deadline Day Special feat. Adam Lenges, Jacek Kulig & Chad McArthur 1:28:43

8 weeks ago1:28:43

1:28:43

In this episode of The Football Talent Show, hosts Adam Lenges, Jacek Kulig, and Chad McArthur present the Deadline Day Special—a livestream-turned-podcast capturing the final hours of the transfer window. With thousands of viewers tuning in live, the discussion covers some of the biggest moves and emerging talents from the window. The episode begins with prospects like Julio Soler, Milos Kerkez, and Stefanos Tzimas, before diving into key names such as Evan Ferguson and Mathys Tel. The team also analyzes the transfers of Mika Biereth, Anass Salah-Eddine, and Lucas Gourna-Douath, as well as rising stars Caleb Wiley, Valentin Barco, and Christian McFarlane. From European wonderkids to the latest moves in Saudi Arabia, this episode delivers scouting insights, expert breakdowns, and transfer analysis on the next generation of talent. If you enjoyed the episode, feel free to like, comment, and subscribe to stay tuned for future episodes! 🎙 More FTS Content: https://linktr.ee/thefootballtalentshow The Football Talent Show is brought to you by The Insider's Lounge, a virtual studio that brings you exclusive insights and conversations from the world of sports. Follow our journey as we expand with new shows and content: https://linktr.ee/theinsiderslounge Intro & Outro Credit: Chop Chops - Alex Productions Graphics X: https://x.com/Agbanebbie Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unclenebo/ Chapters: 00:00 Intro 2:13 Julio Soler 3:55 Milos Kerkez 7:35 Stefanos Tzimas 9:50 Evan Ferguson 13:33 Jack McGlynn 19:54 Mathys Tel 28:42 Mika Biereth 35:01 Anass Salah-Eddine 37:30 Lucas Gourna-Douath 41:00 Adam Aznou 44:00 Dario Essugo 46:39 Esmir Bajraktarević 49:46 Reda Belahyane 51:38 Ognjen Mimović 53:42 Kim Jun-hong 57:24 Esquerdinha 59:07 Romain Esse 01:03:13 Alexander Røssing-Lelesiit 01:07:51 Matteo Dams & Unai Hernandez, Maro Mitaj & Enes Sali in Saudi Arabia 01:13:54 Finn Jeltsch 01:16:39 Yaimar Medina 01:18:44 Christian McFarlane 01:21:04 Caleb Wiley & Valentin Barco 01:23:12 Warren Bondo 01:23:43 Mathis Amougou 01:25:37 Outro…

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Michael Millay - Pro Soccer Player to CEO: Finding a New Identity with Rooted Creative (S2 E21) 56:42

9 weeks ago56:42

56:42

In this episode of The Insider’s Lounge, Michael Millay shares his incredible journey from playing professionally for FC Cincinnati to becoming CEO of Rooted Creative, a thriving creative agency working with some of the biggest brands in sports, music, and lifestyle. His path to pro soccer was deeply personal—driven by a promise he made to a close friend who passed away, vowing to make it to the highest level. However, that journey wasn’t without challenges. While playing in college, a series of injuries nearly derailed his career, forcing him to confront the reality that his time on the field might be cut short before it even truly began. Despite the setbacks, Michael persevered and reached the professional level, fulfilling his promise. But while playing professionally, he hit a breaking point—going completely broke despite achieving what he had worked so hard for. That period forced him to shift his perspective, and instead of dwelling on his struggles, he turned to gratitude and faith as guiding principles. His Christian values became the foundation that helped him navigate uncertainty and trust that his journey had a bigger purpose beyond soccer. When Michael first launched Rooted Creative, it was far from an overnight success. He took on any work he could find, often making just a few dollars an hour as he built his skills, reputation, and business from the ground up. Over time, his relentless work ethic and vision led to collaborations with brands like Adidas and Celsius, as well as artists like Kane Brown. Now, as he continues to grow as a leader and entrepreneur, Michael remains deeply committed to his faith, fitness, and personal relationships, with Race Street serving as the intersection of his business and lifestyle. Looking ahead, he reflects on what it truly means to build a meaningful life—one centered on impact, balance, and leaving a lasting legacy. If you enjoyed the episode, feel free to like, comment, share, or subscribe to stay tuned for future episodes! Michael's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/millayme Rooted Creative Agency: https://rootedcreativeagency.com Race Street: https://www.instagram.com/racestreetathletics Arci Studio: https://thearcistudio.com/ 🎙️ More Insider's Lounge Content: https://linktr.ee/theinsiderslounge Chapters: 00:00 Intro 01:29 Comparing Expectations vs. Reality with High School Self 03:54 Dealing with Identity Change After Pro Soccer Career 10:02 “Grateful for Everything, Entitled to Nothing” 15:28 Benefits & Challenges of Athletes in Business 19:56 Fitness & Race Street: Lifestyle, Goals, and Why It Matters 23:51 Rooted Creative: What It Is & How It Started 26:29 Reflecting on the Journey: From Disney Lifeguard to Successful Entrepreneur 29:31 Why Cincinnati? The City's Role in Michael's Story 34:26 Biggest Mistake → Biggest Lesson 37:25 Proudest Moments with Rooted Creative 39:48 Behind the Scenes: Adidas, Kane Brown, Celsius Shoots 42:33 Finding Balance: Fitness, Friends, Family & Work 48:48 Legacy: What Michael Wants to Be Remembered For 51:19 Quick Fire Questions 55:22 Outro…

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Temisan Williams: Ex-Premier League Academy Trainer Empowering Soccer’s Next-Gen Coaches (S2 E20) 1:02:52

10 weeks ago1:02:52

1:02:52

In this episode of The Insider's Lounge, we’re joined by Temisan Williams, a former Premier League Academy Manager with coaching experience at some of England’s top clubs, including Fulham, Tottenham Hotspur, Arsenal, and West Ham United. With both parents from the Caribbean and a childhood shaped by life in London, Temisan reflects on how his upbringing inspired his passion for soccer and set the foundation for his coaching journey. He shares his path from playing to coaching, highlighting the early breakthroughs that allowed him to work full-time in the soccer industry—an achievement many aspire to. Temisan discusses the realities of working in elite academies, the vital role mentorship played in his career, and the importance of community engagement and education in developing both players and coaches. Building on these experiences, Temisan has grown a significant presence online. With 125,000+ followers, his platforms are a hub for offering practical tips, career guidance, and insights into coaching and personal growth. His Coach Accelerator Program takes this a step further, offering a deeper dive into the tools and strategies needed to succeed as a coach. The program provides practical guidance on navigating the soccer industry, networking, and career growth, while fostering a global community where like-minded coaches can connect and support each other. Temisan also shares inspiring success stories from the program, along with key lessons about what sets top coaches apart and the essential skills needed to thrive in the profession. We close the episode with quick-fire questions, where Temisan reveals what he might have pursued if he hadn’t discovered soccer, which historical team he would have loved to coach, and why Ronaldinho would be his dream conversation partner. If you enjoyed the episode, feel free to like, comment, share, or subscribe to stay tuned for future episodes! Temisan's Social Media and Coach Accelerator Program: https://linktr.ee/Coach_Temisan 🎙️ More Insider's Lounge Content: https://linktr.ee/theinsiderslounge Chapters: 00:00 Intro 00:50 Early Soccer Memories & Family Upbringing 03:37 Education Journey & Transition from Player to Coach 07:28 Breakthrough Moment & Humble Beginnings 10:54 Why Mentors Help Aspiring Professionals 12:38 Career Ambitions vs. Reality 15:31 Academy Coaching Career Highlights 23:08 Player Education & Community Impact in Soccer 27:18 Academy Soccer: Expectations vs. Reality 35:19 Transitioning to Coaching Education & Starting a Business 40:13 The Coach Accelerator Program & Temisan’s Social Media Presence 43:27 Why Temisan’s Unique Approach to Coaching Education Isn’t More Accessible 49:44 Success Stories from the Coach Accelerator Program 53:11 What Sets Top Coaches Apart from the Rest 54:52 The Most Important Skill for Coaches 56:33 A Career Path Outside of Soccer 57:22 Coaching the Legendary 2002 Brazil National Team 59:04 A Chat with Ronaldinho 01:01:33 Outro…

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Dominic Casciato: Inside the Mind of Union Omaha’s Back-to-Back Winning Coach (S2 E19) 56:03

11 weeks ago56:03

56:03

In this episode of The Insider’s Lounge, we dive into the journey and mindset of Dominic Casciato, head coach of Union Omaha, who led the club to back-to-back success as the 2023 and 2024 USL League One Players’ Shield Winners and the 2024 USL League One Playoff Champions. Dominic shares his incredible story, starting from his early soccer memories in the UK and his coaching stints at St. John’s University, Dix Hills FC, and Jersey Express, where he developed his coaching philosophy and passion for player development. He reflects on his transformative experience in Spain with RCD Espanyol, where he learned from some of the best players and coaches, and his return to the U.S. to work with clubs like the New York Cosmos and El Paso Locomotive. We also explore Dominic’s time as a scout with FC Midtjylland, gaining insights into player analysis and recruitment. The conversation highlights his success with Union Omaha, where he shares how he developed underappreciated talent, managed a limited budget, and built a positive team environment that led to championship-winning squads in consecutive years. Dominic opens up about the challenges and joys of professional coaching, offering valuable insights into his journey and thought process. Lastly, we want to acknowledge the tragic incident involving Union Omaha defender Mechack Jerome, his wife, and his cousin. They remain in critical condition after an explosion at their home. To support their recovery, Union Omaha are organizing efforts to raise funds and provide assistance. An online auction featuring signed sports memorabilia will take place, and a GoFundMe has been set up to help with their medical expenses. Auction: https://auctria.events/ShirtsForMechack GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/81537087 If you have any items you’re able to donate for the auction to raise money for Mechack and his family, please contact us at theinsiderslounge@gmail.com. -- 🎙️ More Insider's Lounge Content: https://linktr.ee/theinsiderslounge Chapters: 00:00 Special Disclaimer: Mechack Jerome 00:57 Intro 02:56 Childhood and Family Upbringing 05:43 Time at St. John's University 08:07 Coaching at Dix Hills FC & Jersey Express 13:15 Journey to RCD Espanyol 19:42 Returning to the US: New York Cosmos & El Paso Locomotive 23:04 First 6 Months Coaching at a Professional Club 25:29 Helping a Good Team Get Better 30:05 Developing Youth Players in El Paso 33:28 What Brings Dominic Joy as a Coach 36:33 FC Midtjylland: Insights from a Video Scout 39:43 Behind the Scenes of the 2023 Players’ Shield-Winning Season 44:12 Believing in Yourself as a Head Coach 46:10 Developing Underappreciated Talent 47:50 Setting Objectives to Advance Players' Careers 48:52 Recruiting Players on a Limited Budget 50:59 Comparing the 2023 and 2024 Winning Squads 53:37 Quick-Fire Questions 55:30 Outro…

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Talent Watch: Romania feat. Alex Pilder 51:52

11 weeks ago51:52

51:52

In this episode of The Football Talent Show, hosts Adam Lenges and Jacek Kulig present Talent Watch: Romania. Together with Alex Pilder (first-team scout for FC Rapid 1923) they shine a spotlight on some of the most exciting young talents emerging from Romania’s football scene. The discussion begins with rising stars like Albert Niculăesei, Mihai Toma, and Andrei Florea, before diving into standout prospects such as Alexandru Bota and Rareș Pop. They also explore the potential of Alexandru Musi and his comparison to Octavian Popescu, alongside insights into players like Iustin Doicaru, Alexandru Stoian, and Ioan Vermesan. This episode offers a comprehensive look at Romania’s next generation of talent, providing scouting insights and expert analysis on the future of Romanian football. If you enjoyed the episode, feel free to like, comment, and subscribe to stay tuned for future episodes! Alex's X: https://x.com/AlexScoutRo 🎙 More FTS Content: https://linktr.ee/thefootballtalentshow The Football Talent Show is brought to you by The Insider's Lounge, a virtual studio that brings you exclusive insights and conversations from the world of sports. Follow our journey as we expand with new shows and content: https://linktr.ee/theinsiderslounge Intro & Outro Credit: Chop Chops - Alex Productions Graphics X: https://x.com/Agbanebbie Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unclenebo/ Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 01:36 Albert Niculăesei 06:52 Mihai Toma 11:28 Andrei Florea 16:50 Alexandru Bota 23:41 Rareș Pop 28:11 Alexandru Musi 34:08 Alexandru Musi Vs. Octavian Popescu 36:43 Iustin Doicaru 42:05 Alexandru Stoian 43:52 Ioan Vermesan 50:59 Outro…

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