Soccer with Susan Susan Zhang

If you watch the English Premier League in the US, you'll know the voice of Arlo White. A season commentator of Premier League and MLS, an actor playing himself on Ted Lasso, and just a genuine guy who has met his calling in life, Arlo White joins the podcast to talk about his love for Chicago, fans coming back to stadiums, the PL next season, and much more. Of course, because I insist on being that podcast host that asks all of her guests tough questions, I ask him about his thoughts on social justice issues among US / UK, and male / female players. Tune in and listen, if not just to hear the most proper English spoken ever (hint: it's not my ugly American accent). Huge thanks to Arlo for joining and look out for his commentary at the Olympics later this summer and EPL next season.

In this episode, Kevin and I tackle some of the savory topics in the football world. From fans throwing bottles at games, to online abuse, to the LGBT football community (in honor of pride month of course), I ask Kevin some of the tougher questions, like "Should you censor those hateful messages that have been targeting footballers?" and "Why is there less pronounced ally-ship in men's football?" We try to focus on the relevant and it helps that I'm drinking a cider this time around. Please remember to go check out the LADS podcast for more alcohol and additional soccer commentary.

In Episode 2, I speak with Dr. Kathryn Nesbitt, who made headlines back in August as the first female referee to officiate an MLS final. Making her professional debut in 2013, Katy was also one of three assistant referees from the USA to officiate the 2019 Women's World Cup in France. We talk about her experiences in MLS and the World Cup, the number of female refs in MLS and what we can do to bring more females into this field. She also has a Ph.D. in Chemistry so kindly make sure to address her as "doctor" if you ever question her offside call.

I *almost* lost this episode, which I recorded with Charles way back in fall 2020, because my laptop accidentally downloaded malware and wiped itself clean (no, I was not trying to send money to a Nigerian prince). But I'm glad I was able to recover it because he has some excellent insights about NWSL and the state of women's soccer in the US. He also provides unique perspectives on the Jamaican Women's National Team after their historic run to the 2019 Women's World Cup - their first ever appearance in the competition.

Also, Mitch Purce scored her first goal for the USWNT against Colombia on Friday night and HE TOTALLY CALLED THAT. Note to all listeners: do. not. sleep. on. Mitch. Purce.

In this episode, I speak to former USWNT midfielder and 2x Olympic gold medalist Angela Hucles. We discuss her new ownership role on Angel City, the most recent NWSL expansion team, her thoughts on COVID and her new leadership institute, among others. Special appearance from my dog Hendo who, like his mother, demands constant attention and whines incessantly when it is not received.