Stone by Stone

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

In this episode of Stone by Stone, host Andrew Swanson sits down with John Dorn, a veteran soccer coach, Chicago soccer legend, and current executive with Peoria City in USL2. John shares his incredible journey—from growing up in Chicago’s Southwest Side to playing in the city’s ethnic soccer scene, transitioning into coaching at a young age, and eventually playing a key role in youth development with the Chicago Fire.

John also opens up about his experience coming out professionally in 2022 and the impact of LGBTQ+ representation in soccer. Plus, we dive into the growth of MLS, the evolving soccer landscape in the U.S., and what the Fire and other clubs can do to better engage with their communities.

🎙 Topics Covered in This Episode:

✅ Growing up in Chicago’s Irish Catholic and multicultural soccer scene

✅ Coaching at 14 and the transition from player to mentor

✅ The evolution of MLS & U.S. soccer development

✅ His time with the Chicago Fire and shaping youth pathways

✅ Coming out as a gay man in the soccer world

✅ His current role with Peoria City and building sustainable soccer projects

✅ The future of the Fire and Chicago soccer culture

Welcome back to Stone by Stone, the Edgewater Castle podcast where we explore the beautiful game from every angle! In this episode, host Andrew Swanson sits down with Ross LeBeau to discuss his journey from growing up in Chicago to playing professional soccer. They dive into the challenges of the U.S. soccer system, the evolution of the game, and what the future holds for young players. Tune in for an insightful conversation filled with passion, nostalgia, and plenty of great stories from the pitch! ⚽🔥 #StoneByStone #SoccerPodcast #ChicagoSoccer #WelcomeToEdgewater #GoRooks #VamosRooks

Welcome back to Stone by Stone! In this episode, host Andrew Swanson sits down with Jake Campbell, founder of the Red Line Supporters Group, to dive deep into Chicago’s thriving soccer culture. ⚽

Jake shares his journey from casual fan to community leader, his experiences with supporting both the Chicago Fire & Red Stars, and the importance of amateur and pickup soccer in growing the game. We also discuss the Fire’s exciting 2025 season, key roster changes, and how you can get involved in Chicago’s supporter scene!

👉 Topics Covered:

✅ Jake’s journey into soccer culture & supporter leadership

✅ How Red Line Supporters are shaping Chicago’s soccer scene

✅ The Fire’s offseason moves & what to expect in 2025

✅ The rise of amateur & pickup soccer in the city

✅ How you can get involved—whether as a diehard fan or casual player

✅ Where to watch the Fire’s season opener & join the fun!

📍 Join Red Line Supporters – https://www.redlinesg.com/join-us

📍 Find RLSG at Weeds Tavern for Fire Watch Parties