Christian Hernandez returns to Hometown FC to share his experiences inside one of the most prestigious youth environments in the country — Barca Residency Academy in Arizona. In this conversation, Christian opens up about what life is really like training under the Barca model, how it’s shaped his development, and what he’s learned since joining one of the top academies in North America.

We dig into the differences between club soccer and elite academies, the daily standards that separate the best from the rest, and why understanding culture, structure, and purpose is key to becoming a complete player. Christian also breaks down what most clubs are still getting wrong — and what the world’s top programs consistently get right.

For players, parents, and coaches who want a window into the real developmental environment of a top academy, this episode is full of truth, perspective, and inspiration.

From local streets to global stages, this one reminds us what it really takes to build professionals — the right way.

Dave Meadows is one of Arizona’s most respected coaches, known for his work at Phoenix Rising and Phoenix Premier FC and his passion for player development that goes far beyond the field. With years of experience shaping young athletes into high-level competitors, Dave brings a unique blend of technical knowledge, emotional intelligence, and mentorship to his craft.

In this episode, we dive deep into what it truly means to develop a player — not just a skillset. Dave breaks down his approach to building confidence, teaching creativity, and developing the mindset needed to win 1v1 battles, overcome setbacks, and sustain success. We also explore how youth coaches can balance structure with freedom, and how culture and environment shape long-term growth.

For any player, parent, or coach who cares about real development, this conversation is packed with insight, honesty, and inspiration.

From local streets to global stages, this episode captures the essence of what Hometown FC stands for — purpose, passion, and player-first development.

Mario Ornelas is the founder of the Playmaker Development Program, one of Southern California’s most respected training systems, known for producing intelligent, technical, and creative players. Beyond the training ground, Mario also works as a scout, connecting top young talent with MLS and Liga MX academies, giving players real access to professional pathways on both sides of the border.

In this episode, Mario shares how he’s built a program that blends elite training with real opportunity. We dive into how scouting works behind the scenes, what qualities truly separate players who get noticed, and how coaches can create environments that prepare players for the demands of the next level.

It’s a powerful conversation about purpose-driven development, cultural identity, and the bridge between grassroots soccer and professional football.

From local streets to global stages, this episode captures what it means to build pathways that last.

Jeff Addai is a former professional soccer player turned CEO of OPSM (Optimal Performance Soccer Management), one of the premier player agencies in North America. With experience competing in Europe, Canada, and the U.S., Jeff has transitioned his on-field passion into a mission of guiding the next generation of players toward professional success.

In this episode, we talk about what it really takes to make it in today’s soccer world — from mindset and mentorship to building professional pathways that extend beyond raw talent. Jeff shares how OPSM helps players navigate the modern game, the importance of representation rooted in development, and why transparency and character are key in building trust between players and agents.

This is a must-listen for any aspiring pro, coach, or parent who wants to understand the realities behind the journey — and the blueprint to turn potential into a career.

From local streets to global stages, this episode dives into what it means to chase the dream the right way.

David Dawood is the founder of DD8, a high-performance player development program that connects U.S. talent to opportunities in Spain and France, and a coach with Phoenix Rising Academy. A former professional player and Iraq National Team member, David’s journey is a masterclass in leadership, accountability, and vision.

In this episode, we dive deep into what it means to lead by example, from his own playing days to building a culture of professionalism in young athletes. David shares how he’s helping players chase their dreams overseas, the mindset it takes to stand out in elite environments, and what true leadership looks like on and off the field.

Follow David’s work at @dd8football and listen as we explore how passion, purpose, and persistence create the next generation of hometown heroes.

From local streets to global stages, this one’s for the players and coaches chasing something bigger.

Joe Pehanich is the Head of Youth Soccer at Venice Beach FC, a U.S. Soccer Federation Scout, and a former member of the LAFC academy staff, bringing a rare perspective from both the professional academy system and the grassroots level. In this episode, Joe shares his journey from coaching and developing players at LAFC to leading Venice Beach FC’s youth program, and offers a unique lens on what it really takes to identify and nurture talent in the U.S.

Listeners will hear about:

• How Venice Beach FC is shaping the future of youth soccer in California
• Insights from Joe’s time at LAFC and how pro academies think about player development
• The role of scouting in opening doors for overlooked players
• What separates good from great in a player’s development
• Advice for parents and players chasing the dream without losing balance

This conversation is packed with insight, honesty, and practical advice straight from someone who lives at the intersection of development and opportunity. Another step in Hometown FC’s mission to take players from local streets to global stages.

Devin Franklin is building a movement in West Phoenix through Franklin Sports Performance. Where faith, culture, and next-level training collide. Known for his motto “Grind & Give Glory to God,” Devon has carved out a lane where athletes don’t just work harder, they work smarter, with purpose.

In this episode of Hometown FC, we dive into:

• How Devon shapes youth, college, and pro athletes through creative, engaging training
• The meaning behind his philosophy of grinding with discipline while giving glory to God
• Common developmental mistakes and how to overcome them
• The role community and culture play in shaping the next generation of ballers
• His vision for raising the standard of soccer performance in Arizona and beyond

It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s loaded with wisdom for players, parents, and coaches chasing greatness.

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Sam Al-Basith’s story is a blueprint for building culture in the game. From the cages of South London to shaping elite talent in Los Angeles, Sam has worn every hat, MLS Academy coach, scout, mentor, and founder of SO LA, one of the most influential grassroots football hubs in the U.S.

In this conversation, we go deep on:

• The realities of scouting top talent in America
• How environment and culture shape a player’s mentality
• Lessons learned from working with LA Galaxy Academy
• Building SO LA and creating a space where creativity meets discipline
• Why community-driven football can change the U.S. soccer landscape

It’s raw, it’s insightful, and it’s loaded with gems for players, coaches, and anyone chasing a dream in football.

From local streets to global stages. This is Hometown FC.

On this episode of Hometown FC, we sit down with Valerie Vargas, rising star at UCLA Women’s Soccer and a key player for the Mexico U23 Women’s National Team.

Valerie opens up about what it really takes to succeed at one of the top college programs in the country while chasing international dreams with El Tri. From balancing academics and national team call-ups, to handling pressure, sacrifice, and self-belief — this episode is a masterclass in what it means to grind with purpose.

We get into the real development talk too: youth soccer culture, recruiting mistakes, playing up vs. dominating your age, and what young players often get wrong about "making it."

This one’s for the ballers, the dreamers, the parents, and the players chasing something bigger than just stats.

🎧 Tap in and get inspired.

In this episode of Hometown FC, we sit down with two of the most influential architects in modern player development.

Darnell Simpson-Tomlinson, Chelsea Academy coach and founder of Monster Mentality, opens up about his journey from South London to training Premier League and Serie A ballers like Levi Colwill and Billy Gilmour. His mindset-first approach is changing the way elite players train, prepare, and lead.

On the other side of the pitch, Sam Al Basith, former LA Galaxy academy coach and founder of So LA, shares what it takes to identify and elevate U.S. Youth National Team and pro-level talent. His holistic development hub in Los Angeles is shaping some of the most gifted young players in the country.

Together, Darnell and Sam talk growing up together in South London, bridging international football cultures, and what it truly means to build players for the future—not just the moment.

This one’s for the coaches, the grinders, the dreamers, and the culture shapers.
 Tap in. This episode is elite.