In this episode of the Charlotte FC Podcast, host Nic Finelli sits down with Patrick Daka, Charlotte FC's Head of Pre-Formation, U-14 Academy Coach, and Talent Discovery lead.

Patrick shares his incredible journey through the world of soccer, from his upbringing in Zimbabwe and playing professionally in Germany, to his impact on youth development in the United States. Discover the core principles of "The Charlotte FC Way" and how Patrick's unique approach to player development emphasizes building well-rounded individuals, not just athletes. Learn about the famous "Daka Zone" and how the academy identifies and nurtures hidden talent. Patrick also reflects on pivotal moments in his career and shares insights into mentoring the next generation of coaches.

Join us for an inspiring discussion about passion, perseverance, and shaping the future of soccer in Charlotte.

On this episode we have award winning sports commentator Christian Miles, Apple TV MLS Season Pass Match Commentator on the show, to talk about Charlotte FC and their match again the Columbus Crew on May 24, 2025.

"He is a familiar personality to MLS fans having served as the radio voice for the LA Galaxy from 2016-22 and from his long-time presence at FOX Sports. During a 15-year run with FOX, Miles covered MLS, the English Premier League, Italian Serie A, UEFA Champions League, Liga MX, FIFA World Cup qualifiers, the CONCACAF Gold Cup and even a FIFA Futsal World Cup Final. In 2014, he served as lead anchor for CGTN coverage of the FIFA World Cup, broadcasting to over 160 countries worldwide, while also providing world feed commentary of South America elite club competitions, Copa Libertadores and Copa Sudamericana. The Portland, OR native continues to serve as play-by-play commentator for NCAA Women’s and Men's College Soccer on The Big Ten Network."bio courtesy of MLS.com

X: ⁠@cmilessports

On this episode we chat with Hector Samani, President of the Charlotte FC Black Supporters Union. As we know the supporters lead the atmosphere that makes Charlotte FCs home such a Fortress. The other special thing about Hector and those who lead these groups is they are contributing to bringing people together to enjoy and share experiences together beyond just football.

Follow the Charlotte FC Black Supporters Union on Instagram: @charlottefcasu

On this episode we have award winning sports commentator Tony Husband, Apple TV MLS Season Pass Match Play-by-Play Announcer back on the show, but this time we talk about the match this week against San Diego FC.

IG: ⁠@tony_husband

X: ⁠@TonyHusband

Today on the show my guest is someone who’s been quietly shaping the future of American soccer for decades. From Ivy League sidelines to MLS academies, Bryan Scales has poured his life into developing young talent—not just as athletes, but as people. Now, as the Executive Director of the Academy at Charlotte FC, he’s building something from the ground up, and bringing all those years of wisdom with him. We talk about the winding path that brought him here, the kids who changed him along the way, and the ‘why’ that still fuels him every day. Let’s get into it.

We shake it up a bit this week talking about the upcoming Colorado Rapids away match with MLS Season Pass Match Analyst, Devon Kerr. I think you will like his take on a lot of what Charlotte FC is able to do thus far this year and his bonus shout out at the end.

IG: @dvnkrr

X: @DevonKerr9

Welcome, Bienvineidos to the Charlotte FC Podcast. Today, we delve into the personal side of Charlotte FC Center Back Andrew Privett. We'll discover his passions outside of soccer, the values that drive him, and the experiences that have shaped him as a person and an athlete. Get ready for an insightful conversation that goes beyond the game. I hope you enjoy my conversation with Andrew Privett.

In this episode, I sit down with Charlotte FC Assistant General Manager Bobby Belair, who works closely with GM Zoran Krneta on player personnel decisions and the construction of Crown Legacy, shaping the talent and depth of the club.

A Carolina native, Bobby played college soccer at Brown and Clemson before transitioning to coaching and administration due to injuries. He gained early experience as a graduate assistant under Mike Noonan at Clemson before joining Atlanta United in 2016 as Academy Administrator. There, he quickly moved into player personnel, learning under Carlos Bocanegra. Bobby made the jump to Charlotte in 2021 and has been instrumental in the club’s growth ever since.

Join me as we dive into Bobby’s journey, insights, and impact on Charlotte FC. Hope you enjoy the episode!

x:@BobbyBelair | IG:bobbybelair/

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Anna Witte is the Charlotte FC Match Analyst for the English Radio broadcast. She joins Will Palaszczuk in the booth to begin the 2025 season. The Cary, NC native is also host of the SiriusXM show, USL Super League Game week where she hosts along side Marion Crowder and is a sideline reporter for Carolina Ascent FC. Anna brings almost 10 years of broadcasting history in soccer, working as a play-by-play announcer for the NWSL KC Current, as well as various duties from analyst, sideline reporter, studio host, camera/editing for Goal USA, CBS Golazo, Big Ten Network, NBC Washington. She is also a former college player at Penn State University and loves fashion, pop culture, and finding cool spots to eat food.

X:AnnaWitte_

IG: annawitte

On this episode I talk with Alex Burakoff, Director of Partnership Marketing for Major League Soccer.

Alex was an attorney before his current role. We talk about how that has helped him in his role at MLS as well as his management of the relationships with partners such as RBC Wealth Management for example, and overseeing and executing hundreds of initiatives. Alex and I discuss contract management, the appeal of Major League Soccer to corporate partners, the culture at MLS, and his background transition to sports and the work he continues to do to improve and himself and those around him as a leader.