In the most recent episode of Stone by Stone podcast, Andrew Swanson sits down with Lamont Lynn and Senad Drpljanin, the co-founders of Chicago’s PXM Fitness. The pair share how they transformed an Edgewater CrossFit box into today’s thriving full-service gym.

Listeners hear the founders’ inspiring backstories: Lamont, a lifelong Chicago athlete, recalls playing football and running track through high school and channeling early childhood hardships into the drive to support others.

Senad describes moving from Macedonia in 2012 to chase a fitness career, leaving law school, and even earning the title “2020 Fittest in Macedonia” after qualifying for the 2020 CrossFit Games.

Find out more about them at pxmfitness.com

Andrew Swanson welcomes former pro soccer player David Abidor to Stone by Stone. They discuss David’s childhood in Lincolnwood as the son of Ukrainian immigrants, his introduction to soccer through his father's influence, and his development as a youth player in Chicago. David recounts his college soccer career at Dayton and Creighton, and the rollercoaster ride of his professional career, including playing in the U.S., Sweden, Finland, and Israel. Now a coach at the Chicago Fire Academy, David shares insights on youth development, coaching philosophies, and how his playing days inform his approach to mentoring young athletes. The episode wraps up with David’s predictions for the 2026 World Cup and what the future holds for U.S. soccer.

Key Topics:

Growing up as a Ukrainian-American in Chicago

Transitioning from youth soccer to college and professional play

Experiences playing in Sweden, Finland, and Israel

The challenges and rewards of a journeyman soccer career

Moving from playing professionally to coaching

Youth development in the U.S. and the Chicago Fire Academy

2026 World Cup predictions

In this insightful episode of Stone by Stone, host Andrew Swanson welcomes Sean Phillips, the Head Coach of the UIC Flames men's soccer program. Journey with Coach Phillips as he recounts his formative years in the heart of Texas, tracing his early passion and development through the youth soccer landscape. From the fields of his childhood to the sidelines of a prominent NCAA Division I program in Chicago, Phillips shares the pivotal moments and experiences that shaped his career. Discover the dedication and vision that have defined his long-standing leadership of one of the city's top collegiate soccer programs, and learn more about his perspective on the game as a whole in our country in this engaging conversation.

Get ready for an inspiring conversation on Stone By Stone this week! Host Andrew Swanson welcomes Ben Lindau, who shares his remarkable journey from childhood soccer dreams in the Windy City to navigating a life-altering stroke at a young age. Ben opens up about his formative years, his passion for the beautiful game, his experience as a student-athlete at the University of Michigan, finding Edgewater Castle FC in Chicago and his experiences representing his country for the United States Men's CP National Team. Tune in to hear Ben's powerful story of resilience, positivity, and the unwavering spirit that has shaped his extraordinary path.

To learn more about getting involved in the United States Extended National Teams, visit the following webpage: https://www.ussoccer.com/teams/mens-cp-national-team

"The CP MNT is for eligible qualifying players with Cerebral Palsy, stroke or traumatic brain injury. If you or someone you know qualifies for the Men’s CP National Team and plays at a high level, you can contact us via email at [email protected] for more information on potential playing opportunities." - USSF

Step into the history (and the present) of Chicago Fire FC with Episode 17 of the Stone By Stone Podcast, where we sit down with the club's seasoned Sr. Vice President, Paul Cadwell.

Journey back to his roots in the north of England, hearing tales of youthful ambition and the intensity of club football trials that shaped his early aspirations. Paul then shares his initial experiences of moving to the vibrant city of Chicago, a world away from his upbringing. The heart of the episode lies in his remarkable 27-year tenure with Chicago Fire FC, a captivating story of dedication and growth.

From his early days as a ticket sales representative to his current role in the club's leadership, Paul offers invaluable insights into the evolution of the club, the passion of its fanbase, and the enduring spirit that defines Chicago Fire FC.

In Episode 16 of Stone By Stone, host Andrew Swanson has a compelling conversation with James Kitia, beloved co-founder of Edgewater Castle FC.

James shares his incredible journey, from growing up in Tanzania, the founding of Edgewater Castle FC and the unwavering support the club receives from the Tanzanian community in Chicago.

This episode also takes a heartfelt moment to celebrate the life and legacy of the late GSan, a renowned Tanzanian Hip Hop artist and devoted supporter of the club, reflecting on his impact and the community's collective remembrance.

👤 Guest: James Kitia

📍 Co-Founder & Vice President - Edgewater Castle Football Club

In this episode of Stone by Stone, host Andrew Swanson sits down with Ryan Helgeson, immigration attorney at McEntee Law Group, to dive into the world of U.S. immigration law.

Ryan breaks down key visa types like the O-1 for extraordinary ability, H-1B, L-1, and EB-1 green cards, while also sharing his passion for immigrant rights and how his personal background fuels his work. Whether you're an artist, startup founder, or just curious about immigration law, this episode has something for you.

👤 Guest: Ryan Helgeson

📍 Firm: McEntee Law Group

🎓 J.D. from DePaul University College of Law

🔥 Stone by Stone – Ep. 14: Chatting with Chicago Fire Goalkeeper Chris Brady 🔥

In this episode, host Lauren Hall sits down with Chicago Fire goalkeeper Chris Brady to talk about his journey from youth soccer to the professional stage. We dive into his experiences in MLS, the challenges of being a young goalkeeper, and what it takes to compete at the highest level.

🚀 Topics We Cover:

✅ Chris Brady’s path to becoming a pro goalkeeper

✅ The mental and physical demands of the position

✅ His experiences with the U.S. Youth National Team

✅ Advice for aspiring academy players

✅ "Cars"

🔥 In this episode of Stone by Stone, host Lauren Hall sits down with @chi_kacee, a professional video game player, content creator, and host working with Manchester City and EA Sports FC! From growing up in Chicago to making a career out of playing video games, @chi_kacee shares her incredible journey, the challenges of being a female streamer, and her passion for soccer. ⚽🎮

🔹 Topics Covered:

✅ How @chi_kacee turned her love for gaming into a full-time career

✅ Working with Manchester City & EA Sports

✅ The challenges women face in esports & streaming

✅ Her deep connection to Chicago & the local soccer scene

✅ Advice for aspiring content creators

🔴 Welcome back to Stone by Stone! 🔴

In this episode, host Andrew Swanson sits down with Professor Andy Markovits, a leading expert on sports culture, nationalism, and soccer’s evolution in the U.S. They discuss:

⚽ Andy’s journey from political sociology to becoming a leading voice in soccer studies

⚽ Why soccer has struggled to reach mainstream status in the U.S.

⚽ How globalization and technology are changing fandom

⚽ The impact of nationalism on sports culture

⚽ The 2026 World Cup and what it means for soccer in America

⚽ Andy’s deep-rooted love for Manchester United and key moments that shaped his fandom

This conversation is packed with insights on the history, culture, and future of soccer—both in the U.S. and globally!

📖 Books Mentioned:

Offside: Soccer and American Exceptionalism

Gaming the World: How Sports Are Reshaping Global Politics and Culture