I interviewed a friend of mine from back in California, Ruben Escobar. In the episode, we talk about growing up in Mexico and how that made him into the player and coach he is today. Ruben explains what makes kids better players and what separates the best players from everyone else. He also shares a few stories of what it was like playing soccer on the streets of Tijuana, Mexico. Enjoy. 

This episode is the conversation I wish someone had taught me when I was younger. Me and a good friend of mine: Coach Brett Force, talk about how to learn the most and get the most out of watching soccer games. We discuss the tactics involved and the deeper reasons players do what they do on the field. The touches they make, the pressure and lack of pressure, and the timing of their play are all aspects of the game we can learn so much from by watching. If you consider yourself a serious soccer player but don't watch soccer I beg you to question how much you really love the game. Enjoy.

In this episode, I had the opportunity to talk with the CEO of Passion FC, Arik Rosenstein. Passion FC is a not-for-profit that is dedicated to "having the difficult conversations through football". Football is probably the one thing in this world that has the power to connect so many people from whatever country, religion, socioeconomic status. Our love for the game has placed us in this interview together and hearing what Passion FC and Arik are doing for not just the game, but the world is super inspiring. Listen, reflect and enjoy! 

Love and passion for the game are what I believe to be the biggest way to separate yourself from other players. My love for the game is what drives me to be the best every single day. When you are totally in love with this game, work becomes easy. The "hard" parts of it start to become fun. Unfortunately, a lot of people seem to play and dedicate so much time to soccer, but don't even love it. They struggle to get up in the morning to train. I do not want this to be you. Learn from this. This is the mentality and passion I am trying to grow. 

If you got anything of value from this episode or this podcast please share it with one other person who would enjoy it. I am trying to change the game, one player at a time. 

Lionel Messi has been a blessing to football and watching him play soccer my whole life has been a gift. However, I have my problems with him. Enjoy.

Playing soccer and training under the Covid-19 restrictions suck, I hate it too. But this is NOT an excuse to be a victim. As bad as this is there still are ways to get better. If you are one of the people complaining about not playing, but still lacks improvement and movement towards your goals I am sorry for you. Don't just hear this. Listen. Let it sink in and then DO SOMETHING. And most of all be grateful for the game. 

I interviewed my teammate and roommate Alex Cabeca. We talk about his journey to regaining his love for soccer after losing it for years and what it took to refind that passion. This change has changed his life for the better and it is only going to get better for both of us. 

For exclusive content be sure to follow on Instagram @our.game.soccer

I talk about the biggest soccer trend I am seeing on Instagram now and how it could be hurting players and stealing their money. People are so focused on how things look on social media they forget about the actual substance of what they are doing. Players don't need to fall into this trap to get better. Most of the work can be done by themselves. 

If you are interested in working with me feel free to reach out to @our.game.soccer on Instagram or [email protected] and let's see how we can improve your game. 

If you want to be a better soccer player than the rest you need to do whatever it takes to get that edge. I did not plan to make this episode, but there's nothing that frustrates me more than seeing people who act like they are going hard in whatever it is they want to do but still leave so much on the table. Let this be a reality check for you and your soccer career.

To me and my listeners, soccer/football is "essential" and we're setting the standard that it will not be taken from us no matter the times. We will keep finding ways to get better and improve our game no matter the situation. Believe that. 

Be sure to follow on Instagram @our.game.soccer !! 

#futbolisessential