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What happens when you stop listening to the people who tell you no and start believing in what you’re capable of?

In this episode of the Soccer Stories Podcast, Brian McDonough sits down with former professional soccer player Joe Farrell to reflect on a remarkable 10-year career that included 275 appearances, five trophies, and stops with Rochester, Phoenix Rising, Pittsburgh Riverhounds, and Hartford Athletic.

Joe shares the story behind “Dream Crazy,” a powerful message inspired by  Gretta Ehret and her courageous battle with metastatic breast cancer. He discusses how Gretta Ehret's legacy impacted the final years of his playing career, helped inspire Hartford Athletic’s championship run, and continues today through the Dream Crazy Foundation and Joe’s work with young athletes.

Joe also takes us inside one of the defining experiences of his career: playing alongside Didier Drogba. He recalls the unforgettable moment in Ecuador that transformed his confidence as a professional and shares what he learned from Drogba about self-belief, humility, preparation, and carrying yourself like you belong.

From retiring after a decade in professional soccer to mentoring the next generation through Footy Fitness Club, Joe’s story is a reminder that sometimes the biggest obstacle between you and your dream is believing you’re capable of achieving it.

If people tell you no, don’t listen. Dream Crazy.

If you'd like to learn more about the Dream Crazy Foundation then check out the below website:

https://dreamcrazyforgretta.org/

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What is that drink Lionel Messi always seems to have in his hand?

In this episode of the Soccer Stories Podcast, Brian McDonough sits down with Jason Triglia, owner of Yerba Crew, to explore the world of yerba mate and its unique connection to football culture.

From Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez to Antoine Griezmann and countless players across the global game, yerba mate has become an unmistakable part of life inside locker rooms, training grounds, team buses, and stadiums.

Jason breaks down the history of yerba mate, its deep cultural roots in Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, and Brazil, and why the ritual of sharing mate is about much more than simply drinking caffeine.

Brian also gets a hands-on introduction as Jason walks him through a traditional yerba mate preparation, from filling the gourd and positioning the yerba to using the bombilla and properly sharing mate with a group.

The conversation also explores how Jason and Yerba Crew are bringing that culture to the United States through mateadas and community events in Philadelphia and beyond.

If you've watched Messi arrive at a match carrying his mate and wondered, “What exactly is he drinking?” — this episode tells the story behind one of football's most recognizable traditions.

In this episode:
• Why so many footballers drink yerba mate
• The history and cultural significance of mate
• Argentina and Uruguay's obsession with the drink
• How to prepare yerba mate traditionally
• The etiquette and ritual of sharing mate
• Why mate is so closely connected to football culture
• How Yerba Crew is building a mate community in Philadelphia

Follow Yerba Crew: https://yerbacrew.com/pages/matchday?utm_source=sostv&utm_medium=youtube&utm_campaign=matchday2026

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On this episode of the Soccer Stories Podcast, I’m joined by Jeremy Alumbaugh, President of the USL Championship.

Jeremy shares his personal journey through the game, from collegiate player to coach, general manager, and now president of one of the fastest-growing leagues in American soccer. His story is a uniquely American pathway, highlighting the diverse opportunities within the sport here in the United States.

This is a conversation about passion, perseverance, and leadership in soccer that you won’t want to miss.

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Guinness legend and Man City diehard Prime Mutton joins the "Soccer Stories Podcast" for an episode full of football, pints, and pub tales. 

Fresh off his U.S. tour, he shares unforgettable moments from Boston, Philly, Chicago, New York, and more. We talk perfect pours, favorite away days, the origin of the "Muttonistas," and where to find the best Guinness in Ireland, the UK, and the States. If you love football, pub culture, or just a good story over a great pint, this one’s for you!

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In this episode of the Soccer Stories Podcast, we’re joined by Joe Nemzer, the Technical Director of the Philadelphia Ukrainian Nationals. Based in Horsham, Pennsylvania, the Ukrainian Nationals boast a rich history that dates back to 1950. The club once played in the 1st division of U.S. Soccer's American Soccer League and has an impressive legacy with six American Soccer League titles and four U.S. Open Cups, ranking 2nd all-time.

In 2025, the Ukrainian Nationals are focused on fostering competitive youth soccer for boys and girls, offering a range of programs from a developmental academy for ages 5-8 to travel teams for U8 through U18 players, competing in some of the most competitive local and regional youth leagues.

During this episode, Joe shares insights into his role at the Ukrainian Nationals, his journey to coaching, what it means to be a Technical Director, and much more about the evolving role of a coach in today’s game. Enjoy this in-depth conversation on the Soccer Stories Podcast!

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On this episode of the Soccer Stories Podcast we are joined by Marcus Walfridson. Marcus is the founder and President of the Sarasota Paradise. The Paradise compete in the USL League Two which is the 4th division of soccer in the United States. 

Competing at the highest semi-professional division in the U.S. the goal remains clear...to bring the Sarasota Paradise to the professional ranks! On this episode Marcus will talk about his background, love for the sport, and how he started this soccer club in paradise!

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On this episode of the Soccer Stories Podcast we sit down with the star of 'The Soccer Tournament (TST),' Chad Poarch. Chad scored the game winning 4th goal to defeat Luis Nani & his star-studded team on the way to capturing the TST title.

You will hear from Chad Poarch himself as we discuss TST, what it was like playing against Nani and of course, what he will do with the one million dollars.

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On this episode of the Soccer Stories Podcast we are joined by the founder of One Soccer Nation, Kareem Rae. 

Kareem is a former player who's transitioned seamlessly into various roles within the sport. With two decades of soccer experience, from grassroots to semi-pro, Kareem is not only an author but also a mentor to thousands of players through his insightful book. As the host of over 250 soccer interviews on The One Soccer Nation Podcast, Kareem brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the table. And now, he's taken the helm as CEO & Co-Founder of One Soccer Nation. Join us as we explore his journey and insights into the beautiful game.

If you would like to follow along with Kareem's journey at One Soccer Nation make sure to check out his channel on YouTube where you can find all episodes of the OSN Podcast! 

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On this episode of the Soccer Stories Podcast we will be discussing one of the most beautiful club's in all of Europe, Como 1907. Situated on the banks of Lake Como this historic club was promoted to Serie A for the first time since the 2002-2003 season. This promotion has led to a lot of media attention for Como 1907 and with good reason!

Como 1907 is an incredibly historic club. The team has had it's fair shares of ups and down since well 1907, and at this point in time are celebrating the success of moving up to Serie A. The 2024 season for Como 1907 has been capped off with promotion, but it doesn't end there. The future for this club is bright! I hope you enjoy this episode. 

To watch State of Soccer's full video about Como 1907's rise to Serie A make sure to check out the link to YouTube in the LinkTree below:

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On this episode of the Soccer Stories Podcast we are joined by New York Red Bull's winger, Serge Ngoma. Serge is only 18 years old and is embarking on his 3rd season with the New York Red Bulls. A homegrown player from North Plainfield, New Jersey, he has risen through the ranks of the Red Bulls Academy and has experienced great success thus far in Major League Soccer

We are thrilled to have Serge Ngoma on this episode of the Soccer Storied Podcast. I hope you enjoy!

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