USMNT roster drop & Does the best player in the world wear braces?

Alexi Lalas’ State of the Union Podcast

Alexi Lalas’ State of the Union Podcast

1:15:36

In this episode, we welcome back David French, columnist for The New York Times , former constitutional attorney, and author of Divided We Fall . We discuss the current state of American democracy, the challenges of political division, and how we can engage in civil discourse despite deep ideological differences. David also shares a personal update on his family and reflects on the profound trials and growth that come with adversity. 📌 What We Discuss: ✔️ How David and his family navigated the challenges of a serious health crisis. ✔️ The rise of political polarization and the factors driving it. ✔️ Why distinguishing between “unwise, unethical, and unlawful” is crucial in analyzing political actions. ✔️ How consuming different perspectives (even opposing ones) helps in understanding political dynamics. ✔️ The role of Christian values in politics and how they are being redefined. ⏳ Episode Highlights 📍 [00:01:00] – David French’s background and his journey from litigation to journalism. 📍 [00:02:30] – Personal update: David shares his wife Nancy’s battle with cancer and their journey as a family. 📍 [00:06:00] – How to navigate personal trials while maintaining faith and resilience. 📍 [00:10:00] – The danger of political paranoia and the pitfalls of extreme polarization. 📍 [00:18:00] – The "friend-enemy" paradigm in American politics and its influence in Christian fundamentalism. 📍 [00:24:00] – Revisiting Divided We Fall : How America’s divisions have devolved since 2020. 📍 [00:40:00] – The categories and differences of unwise, unethical, and unlawful political actions. 📍 [00:55:00] – The balance between justice, kindness, and humility in political engagement. 📍 [01:00:00] – The After Party initiative: A Christian approach to politics focused on values rather than policy. 💬 Featured Quotes 🔹 "You don't know who you truly are until your values are tested." – David French 🔹 "If we focus on the relational, we can have better conversations even across deep differences." – Corey Nathan 🔹 "Justice, kindness, and humility—if you're missing one, you're doing it wrong." – David French 🔹 "The United States has a history of shifting without repenting. We just move on." – David French 📚 Resources Mentioned David French’s Writing: New York Times David’s Book: Divided We Fall The After Party Initiative – More Info Advisory Opinions Podcast (with Sarah Isgur & David French) – Listen Here 📣 Call to Action If you found this conversation insightful, please: ✅ Subscribe to Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other on your favorite podcast platform. ✅ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen: ratethispodcast.com/goodfaithpolitics ✅ Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/politicsandreligion ✅ Watch the full conversation and subscribe on YouTube: youtube.com/@politicsandreligion 🔗 Connect With Us on Social Media @coreysnathan: Bluesky LinkedIn Instagram Threads Facebook Substack David French: 🔗 Twitter | BlueSky | New York Times Our Sponsors Meza Wealth Management: www.mezawealth.com Prolux Autogroup: www.proluxautogroup.com or www.granadahillsairporttransportation.com Let’s keep talking politics and religion—with gentleness and respect. 🎙️💡…

18 days ago 1:14:10

MP3•Episode home

In #AskAlexi the guys answer questions on Gio Reyna’s next steps and Manchester United’s new roofed stadium. To wrap Alexi acknowledges 2025 Colin Jose Media Award winner Bob Ley.

USMNT roster drop (4:53)

Champions League action: Yamal leads Barcelona romp (16:22)

USMNT Abroad (40:06)

CONCACAF Champions Cup: Messi travels to Jamaica (42:19)

#AskAlexi (52:42)

One for the Road: Bob Ley wins 2025 Colin Jose Media Award (63:16)

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

583 episodes

USMNT roster drop & Does the best player in the world wear braces?

134 subscribers

published 18 days ago

MP3•Episode home

In #AskAlexi the guys answer questions on Gio Reyna’s next steps and Manchester United’s new roofed stadium. To wrap Alexi acknowledges 2025 Colin Jose Media Award winner Bob Ley.

USMNT roster drop (4:53)

Champions League action: Yamal leads Barcelona romp (16:22)

USMNT Abroad (40:06)

CONCACAF Champions Cup: Messi travels to Jamaica (42:19)

#AskAlexi (52:42)

One for the Road: Bob Ley wins 2025 Colin Jose Media Award (63:16)

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

583 episodes

Toate episoadele

1
International Break Recap: Brazil handed worst loss, USWNT roster, Jedi & Dest most important USMNT players? 1:10:32

5 days ago1:10:32

1:10:32

Alexi Lalas and David Mosse sit down to share final thoughts on the USMNT’s lackluster weekend at the CONCACAF Nations League, and the importance of Sergiño Dest and Antonee Robinson being available for the national team this summer at Gold Cup. Also during this international window, Argentina handed Brazil their worst World Cup qualifying loss ever. France, Spain, Germany, and Portugal all advanced to the UEFA Nations League semis. Our Americans look to get back in club action in Europe. Weston McKennie and Tim Weah face Genoa under new management, Antonee Robinson and Chris Richards go head-to-head in the FA Cup quarterfinals. On the women’s side, Emma Hayes announced the USWNT roster for their upcoming matches against Brazil. (7:49) To wrap the show, Alexi and Mosse discuss USMNT’s second best guy behind Pulisic, USL promotion/relegation, and give an ode to the late Hank Steinbrecher. (50:32) Final thoughts on USMNT Nations League failure (7:49) Brazil handed worst WCQ loss (27:18) UEFA Nations League semis are set (32:12) USMNT Abroad Preview (39:43) #AskAlexi: USL pro/rel (50:32) One for the Road: Ode to Hank Steinbrecher (59:05) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

1
USMNT squander Nations League, expectations for 2025 Gold Cup & 2026 FIFA World Cup 38:48

8 days ago38:48

38:48

Alexi Lalas, David Mosse and Stu Holden broke down the USMNT’s second loss in the 2025 CONCACAF Nations League. Mauricio Pochettino revamped the USMNT starting XI in the 3rd-place match against Canada, but it was not enough to secure the win. Their only goal came from Patrick Agyemang in the first half, assisted by Diego Luna. After losing the Nations League for the first time, the guys discussed the importance of the USMNT’s performance at the CONCACAF Gold Cup this summer. As it will be the squad and Pochettino’s sole tournament opportunity before the 2026 World Cup. (4:46) USMNT Nations League failure (0:00) Gold Cup importance (12:04) Starting XI predictions for Gold Cup (30:59) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

1
USMNT falls to Panama: Is the honeymoon over for Mauricio Pochettino? 37:30

11 days ago37:30

37:30

Alexi Lalas, David Mosse, Stu Holden and John Strong recap the U.S. Men's National Team’s shocking 1-0 loss to Panama live from SoFi Stadium. Panama’s Cecilio Waterman scored the winner at the death to advance Los Canaleros to the CONCACAF Nations League Finals. The USMNT has now been eliminated by Panama in three-straight major tournaments including the 2024 Copa America and 2023 CONCACAF Gold Cup. The guys discussed what this result means for the future and how expectations may have to shift after multiple disappointing losses. Is the “golden generation” not so golden? The USMNT faces Canada on Sunday in the CONCACAF Nations League 3rd-place match. USMNT vs Panama: Alexi and Stu's instant reaction to loss (0:00) Final Thoughts (5:57) Is the USMNT as good as we thought? (12:30) Canada vs USMNT Preview (29:05) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

1
USMNT vs Panama preview, Messi out of Argentina’s squad 1:01:52

14 days ago1:01:52

1:01:52

An exciting international window is upon us with CONCACAF and UEFA Nations League matches & CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying. Alexi Lalas and David Mosse previewed USMNT’s match against Panama in the CONCACAF Nations League semifinal. Alexi unveiled his predictions for the starting lineup. Most of the players called up for Pochettino’s squad were in club action this weekend. Christian Pulisic helped AC Milan to a comeback win with his 15th goal of the season. Jedi Robinson and Fulham edged Tottenham and jumped up to 8th in the Premier League standings. Although Haji Wright will miss USMNT action, he recorded his first English soccer hat-trick with Coventry City. Back stateside, Messi was back on the pitch with Inter Miami scoring in back-to-back matches. However, he will be unavailable for Argentina’s CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying matches. The squad is set to take on Uruguay and Brazil. (5:16) To wrap the show, the guys discuss international kits, play-by-play announcing, and facing Niall Quinn from the Republic of Ireland. (39:53) USMNT vs Panama preview (5:16) USMNT Abroad recap (13:47) Newcastle celebrates in Carabao Cup Final (20:00) CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying: No Messi (30:31) UEFA Nations League (35:28) #AskAlexi (39:53) One for the Road: Facing Niall Quinn (48:41) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

1
USMNT roster drop & Does the best player in the world wear braces? 1:14:10

18 days ago1:14:10

1:14:10

Alexi Lalas and David Mosse kick off the episode with Mauricio Pochettino’s Nations League roster drop. Six MLS based players got the call including Diego Luna, Patrick Agyemang, and Brian White. The squad will face Panama on March 20th. Over in the Champions League, Lamine Yamal led Barcelona’s romp over Benfica with a goal and assist. Is Yamal the best player in the world at just 17 years-old? Gio Reyna came on late in Dortmund’s win over Lille. They will meet Yamal and Barcelona in the UCL quarter finals. Julián Alvarez’s controversial double-kick snubbed Atletico from taking down Real Madrid and moving on. The CONCACAF Champions Cup action also heats up. MLS-sides answered back in leg 2, with three squads advancing to the quarterfinals thus far. Messi and Inter Miami wrap up the Round of 16 with a trip to Jamaica. (4:53) In #AskAlexi the guys answer questions on Gio Reyna’s next steps and Manchester United’s new roofed stadium. To wrap Alexi acknowledges 2025 Colin Jose Media Award winner Bob Ley. USMNT roster drop (4:53) Champions League action: Yamal leads Barcelona romp (16:22) USMNT Abroad (40:06) CONCACAF Champions Cup: Messi travels to Jamaica (42:19) #AskAlexi (52:42) One for the Road: Bob Ley wins 2025 Colin Jose Media Award (63:16) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

1
USMNT June friendlies, Prolific Pulisic, Sergino Dest is BACK 1:02:14

21 days ago1:02:14

1:02:14

Alexi Lalas and David Mosse kick off today's show off with the announcement of USMNT’s June friendlies. The squad is set to face off against two big European opponents, Switzerland and Turkiye, ahead of the CONCACAF Gold Cup. Also in Europe, Christian Pulisic had a big weekend and saved the day for AC Milan. He scored two goals in eight minutes to equalize and win the match over Lecce. Juventus suffered a major loss at home and nearly ended all hopes of a league title. Josh Sargent struck again, scoring his twelfth goal of the season for Norwich City. Tyler Adams has also been in great form since returning from injury, earning Bournemouth’s February Player of the Month Award. Sergino Dest looks to make a similar impact on the pitch for PSV as he makes his official return from an ACL tear. UEFA Champions League and CONCACAF Champions Cup round of 16 leg 2 continue this week with many great matchups on deck. (5:39) To wrap the show the guys discuss injury timelines, identifying top prospects, and Gianni Infantino in the White House. (41:17) USMNT June friendlies announced (5:39) USMNT Abroad (7:57) UEFA Champions League (25:49) CONCACAF Champions Cup (27:30) #AskAlexi (41:17) One for the Road: Infantino in the White House (52:04) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

1
Champions League recap, USMNT vs The best clubs, Flo Balogun is back in action 1:10:53

25 days ago1:10:53

1:10:53

Alexi Lalas and David Mosse dove into the Champions League Round of 16 Leg 1. On Tuesday, Real Madrid and Atletico faced off in a close battle and Arsenal pummeled PSV 7-1. To follow that up, Harry Kane led the way for Bayern with a brace and Liverpool’s Harvey Elliott was the hero in their win at the death. The Big news for our Americans in Europe, Flo Balogun returned to training camp this week after recovering from shoulder surgery. The CONCACAF Champions Cup Round of 16 also continued this week. Inter Miami will wrap up leg 1 tonight against Cavalier. When will we see Messi? (7:50) The guys answer questions in #AskAlexi about the best club teams the USMNT could top and Oscar reactions. To wrap, Alexi and Mosse discuss FIFA World Cup news including, 2026 World Cup halftime show and 2031 Women’s World Cup bid. (49:38) Champions League Recap (7:50) USMNT Abroad (25:48) CONCACAF Champions Cup Recap (35:20) MLS Preview (43:23) #AskAlexi (49:38) One for the Road: FIFA World Cup News (57:00) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

1
Johnny Cardoso’s big day, Americans fight on in FA Cup, No Messi equals free tickets 1:07:08

28 days ago1:07:08

1:07:08

Alexi Lalas and David Mosse recap a busy weekend abroad for the Americans. Johnny Cardoso and Real Betis went head-to-head with one of La Liga’s best, and outmatched them. The header against Real Madrid marked his first league goal of the season. Over in Serie A, the struggles have not let up. AC Milan dropped important matches on the weekend and moved down to 9th in standings, while Juventus failed to advance past Empoli in the Coppa Italia. Jedi Robinson and Chris Richards withstand their respective opponents in FA Cup action, and are set to face off in the quarter finals next. Back state side, MLS matchday two was a spectacle. Jacob Murrell’s epic bicycle kick leveled the score at the death, and Inter Miami showed out despite Messi not traveling. Alexi and Mosse shared thoughts on the situation and Houston’s statement surrounding the world class player. (8:05) To wrap the show the guys discuss the new eight second rule for keepers, the idea of a MLS and USL Super Copa, and Alexi’s ski trip to the Rocky Mountains. (48:15) USMNT Abroad (8:05) Champions League Preview (30:31) MLS Weekend Recap (31:43) CONCACAF Champions Cup: Round of 16 (45:00) #AskAlexi (48:15) One for the Road: Skiing in the Rocky Mountain (55:52) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

1
Messi strikes again, Barcelona & Atletico thriller, Mexican/American dual national panic 1:06:59

5 weeks ago1:06:59

1:06:59

Alexi Lalas and David Mosse broke down Messi’s electric goal in the CONCACAF Champions Cup. Inter Miami and LAFC both advanced to the Round of 16. MLS league play also continues this weekend with the new San Diego squad set to host their first home match at Snapdragon Stadium. Over in Europe, Barcelona and Atletico played to a 8-goal thriller in Copa Del Rey. Johnny and Real Betis prepare to take on title contenders Real Madrid in league action. Antony’s red card has officially been cancelled and will be available for the big match. The FA Cup and Coppa Italia roll on this week with Americans looking to continue their run. Christian Pulisic makes big news as he closes in on a contract extension with AC Milan through 2029. (6:19) In #AskAlexi the guys answer questions on the possibility of MLS players winning a Ballon d’Or and Mexican/American dual national players. To wrap the show they speak on collegiate soccer working with U.S. Soccer to play year-round. (41:24) CONCACAF Champions Cup recap & MLS preview (6:19) Weekend Abroad (23:13) #AskAlexi (41:24) One for the Road: Year-round collegiate soccer (54:00) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

1
MLS Opening week recap, Sargent remains unstoppable, USWNT tops Colombia & Australia 56:47

5 weeks ago56:47

56:47

Alexi Lalas and David Mosse dive into Major League Soccer’s opening week. It was an electric start for San Diego FC as they took down the reigning MLS Cup Champions. Bruce Arena’s debut with San Jose was also unforgettable, topping Salt Lake 4-0. Additionally, Alexi breaks down the infamous playing out of the back and giveaway goals we continued to see this weekend. Over in Europe, Josh Sargent remained unstoppable in the Championship. He earned a brace against Stoke City and recorded his 20th goal at home in 23 matches. AC Milan’s struggles continued in Serie A as Christian Pulisic missed his first career penalty kick. To cap off the weekend, the guys discussed the USWNT’s SheBelieves performance and back-to-back wins among many international debuts. (6:30) To wrap the show, Alexi and Mosse chat about MLS expansion options, two-tiered pro/rel system or east and west split divisions. The guys send best wishes to former USMNT goalkeeper Tony Meola as he recovers from a heart attack. (37:01) MLS Opening weekend recap (6:30) CONCACAF Champions Cup Preview (17:13) USMNT Abroad (19:55) UCL Round of 16 (30:35) SheBelieves Cup (33:46) #AskAlexi (37:01) One for the Road: Best wishes to Tony Meola (43:03) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

1
MLS preview with Taylor Twellman, Americans crash out of UCL, USWNT take on SheBelieves Cup 1:17:26

6 weeks ago1:17:26

1:17:26

Alexi Lalas and David Mosse are joined by Apple TV’s Taylor Twellman for a look into the 2025 Major League Soccer season. They discuss the biggest transfers of the offseason, Bruce Arena and Gregg Berhalter’s first year in the league, USL expansion league, and more. In the CONCACAF Champions Cup’s, Djordje Mihailovic and the Colorado Rapids topped LAFC in leg-1 of the first round. Over in Europe, seven Americans made a Champions League exit. Tim Weah scored a banger for Juventus, but it was not enough to advance the squad past the knockout stage. The U.S. Women’s National Team is back in action this week as they face Colombia in their first SheBelieves Cup group stage matchup. (4:56) To wrap the podcast, Alexi and Mosse dive into the game that got them into soccer, parallels between hockey and soccer, and 30 years of MLS. (54:58) Taylor Twellman joins the Pod (4:56) CONCACAF Champions Cup (30:32) Champions League Recap (32:56) SheBelieves Cup Preview (53:04) #AskAlexi (54:58) One for the Road: 30 Years of MLS (66:29) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

1
USL takes on MLS, Captain McKennie & Weah shine in derby, Josh Sargent stays hot 1:07:46

6 weeks ago1:07:46

1:07:46

Alexi Lalas and David Mosse are fired up about the United Soccer League launching a new Division One League in 2027-28. Details on timeline, competition format, and clubs participating will be announced in coming months. The big question remains, is promotion/relegation in the cards for the new league? Over in Europe, Captain Weston McKennie led Juventus to a Derby D’Italia win, and Tim Weah stepped up big on defense. Josh Sargent continued his scoring streak for Norwich. He currently holds the most goals for a single team in the Championship since his debut in 2022. Daryl Dike was back in action after a long awaited return and Paxton Aaronson headed a goal in for Utrecht. The Americans look to continue their form in the Champions League, alongside Real Madrid and Manchester City vying for a Round of 16 spot. (9:09) The guys answer a few questions on soccer vs hockey rivalries and MLS kits ahead of the 2025 season. To end the show Alexi recaps his trip to Syracuse University for conversations with FOX Sports U. (45:52) USL launches new Division One league (9:09) USMNT Abroad (21:15) Champions League Preview (37:09) CONCACAF Champions Cup (42:36) #AskAlexi (45:52) One for the Road: Conversations with FOX Sports U (54:56) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

1
McKennie’s Champions League screamer, Emma Hayes drops USWNT Roster, Future of USMNT striker pool 1:04:39

7 weeks ago1:04:39

1:04:39

David Mosse and special guest Stu Holden broke down the U.S. Women’s National Team SheBelieves roster for the February window. Emma Hayes called up her 23-player squad without Trinity Rodman, Sophia Smith, and Mallory Swanson. The guys were also fired up after an exciting day of Champions League action. Manchester City and Real Madrid went back and forth in a 5-goal thriller. Jude Bellingham recorded the winner in stoppage time. Weston McKennie shined in UCL leg-1 against PSV. He opened the scoring for Juventus with a screamer in the first half. With Ricardo Pepi out for the PSV season, Mosse and Stu spoke on the USMNT striker pool heading into the CONCACAF Nations League. (5;46) To wrap the show the duo discussed the 22-0 US Men’s U-17 win over the U.S. Virgin Island, Stu’s youth sports conundrum, and Valentine’s Day plans. USWNT SheBelieves roster drop (5:49) Champions League Recap (12:56) USMNT Abroad (19:41) #AskAlexi (42:20) One for the Road: Youth sports conundrum (51:49) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

1
Josh Sargent’s streak continues, Super-sub Pulisic, Mbappe's Madrid derby debut 51:31

7 weeks ago51:31

51:31

Alexi Lalas and David Mosse react to last week’s USMNT club action. Christian Pulisic delivered a man of the match performance and recorded both assists in AC Milan's win. Josh Sargent remained hot, earning his fourth goal in three consecutive matches for Norwich City. Sargent will be crucial up top for the USMNT with Ricardo Pepi recovering from knee surgery. PSV ruled Pepi out for the remainder of the season. In the FA Cup Plymouth stunned Liverpool with a fourth round defeat behind Ryan Hardie's goal from the spot. Mbappe leveled the score in his first Madrid derby, becoming the youngest player to earn 500 goal contributions. (9:54) The guys answer questions on the wave of star players moving to South America and New Orleans hosting international soccer games. Alexi and Mosse also share thoughts on Super Bowl parties, celebrations, and festivities to wrap the show. (29:25) USMNT Abroad (9:54) Ricardo Pepi injury update (18:54) Mosse’s Matches (21:12) Star players to South America (29:25) Super Bowl reactions (41:47) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

1
Tom Bogert joins the Pod to talk January transfer window, USMNT players that need a move, U.S. Open Cup & more 40:56

8 weeks ago40:56