Charlotte FC Podcast (Charlotte FC Podcast)

It's not every day one gets to sit down and talk with world-class soccer/football referees. We were fortunate enough to have a chat with PRO Referees Director of Senior Match Officials, Alan Kelly, and the Chief Refereeing Officer, Joe Fletcher to learn more about how the organization PRO (Professional Referees Organization) works, their roles now, and an inside look at the refereeing process from training to match day and beyond.

Alan Kelly, born in Cork, Ireland is the Director of Senior Match Officials at PRO. His decorated career includes officiating over 350 matches in the League of Ireland Premier Division and refereeing Ireland's FAI Cup finals in 2003 and 2009. He was ranked the #1 referee in Ireland for several years, including referee of the year in 2006 before coming to the States and MLS where he officiated 8 years and was named MLS Referee of the Year in 2015, 2016 & 2018. He also was selected ref for MLS Cup 2016 and 2018.

Joe Fletcher, from Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada, is currently the Chief Refereeing Officer at PRO. His career spans 25 years, including officiating honors as CSL Referee of the Year in 2007, MLS Assistant Referee of the Year in 2018, appointed to MLS Cups as an AR in 2014 and 2016. He has also been an Assistant Referee in the 2014 and 2018 FIFA World Cups along with officiating Concacaf Gold Cups, Concacaf Champions League Finals, FIFA U-20 World Cups, the Olympics, Copa America, and FIFA Confederations Cups.

Shawn and I take a look back at last year and talk about new things for 2023 with Charlotte FC and his role of being the Chief Fan Officer for the 2nd campaign.

On today’s episode we are joined by Daniel Bramlette. He along with John Hayes host The Charlotte Soccer Show. These guys are wildly successful in their day-jobs as producers for ESPN’s SEC Network and the Athletic respectively. I talk with Daniel about why they started their podcast, what they want to do with it, his work as a producer, and more fun stuff about Danny.

Twitter: @ForTheCrownBaby
Charlotte Soccer Show YT

On today's episode I was lucky enough, no Irish pun intended there, to sit down with Kevin Egan the host of MLS 360 and MLS Wrap-Up, part of MLS Season Pass on Apple TV. We talk about what it is like working for MLS, these shows, how he approaches his career, and a little about his journey and things learned along the way.

#MLS360

@kev_egan

Today on the show we have Mike Lacett, a newcomer to the Queen City, joining the Charlotte Sports Live team as a Sports Anchor and reporter in the summer of last year. Previously he has had stints in Grand Rapids, Toledo, Louisville, Charleston, Syracuse, and Palm Springs over the past 20 years covering possibly every sport and level there is.  Today on the podcast we talk with Mike to learn more about his career, his story, and covering Charlotte FC.

You can watch Mike on Queen City News and CSL in Charlotte as well as follow him on Twitter @mikelacett and @cslonQCN.

This episode's conversation is with Kyle Sheldon, CEO/Founder of Name and Number. He has built quite a career in sports marketing, having stints at DC United, NASCAR here in Charlotte, the Seattle Sounders, and the Chicago Fire. Kyle has stepped onto the pitch with his own soccer-specific marketing and creative agency called Name and Number is enjoying success early on with a client list that includes MLS and Leagues Cup, Dortmunt, San Diego Wave FC, USL, Kwik Goal, Seattle Sounders, and more. l think you will enjoy learning more about Kyle what he has started in a soccer/football sphere that is about to explode in the States like never before.

X:@kylesheldon

LinkedIn: @kylesheldon 🌐 Name and Number

@NameAndNumber

@Pathway_hq

Today on the show we talk with Alex Zietlow, a journalist for The Charlotte Observer, who currently covers the Carolina Panthers, after covering the Charlotte Football Club this season. While there is no football match today, American Football hits center stage as the 2023 Carolina Panthers season begins on Sunday in Atlanta against the Falcons. This is the man you will want to follow on Twitter @alexzietlow05 and read his insightful stories in The Charlotte Observer about the Panthers all season long. Prior to covering the Panthers, Alex was part of the press core for Charlotte FC. I sat down with Alex to talk about his approach to writing, how he got into this gig, football in Charlotte, and much more.

Today on the show we are lucky to have one of Charlotte's own, Charlotte FC Defender Jaylin Lindsey. We talk about his journey starting in Charlotte, then Kansas City, and back to Charlotte. Jaylin also shares more about his fellow players and personal support team, cooking, living in Charlotte as an adult, and what he does for fun outside of football.

IG: @JaylinLindsey

We talk today with Bob Ventimiglia, "Chairman of the Board" for i80 Sports (HQ in NJ) about his shows about the NFL, Fantasy,  & MLS which focus on the betting side of games as well as the Wild Card match with New York Red Bulls.

Bob is know for over-opinionated rants and intermittent head-shaving, but he has worked full time as a professional trumpet player and music teacher in the NY/NJ area for the last twelve years as well as being a Red Bull supporter.

All i80 Sports shows are live so check them out at ⁠i80sports.com⁠

On this episode, I have a conversation with Karely Avila, Sr Communications Coordinator for Charlotte FC. We talk about the many hats she wears for the club’s communications team as well as her journey: from her parent's move from Mexico to how she ended up in Charlotte and lessons she learned along the way. Enjoy getting to know Karely Avila.

X: @karelyeavila

IG: @karelyavila_

On this episode Nic has a conversation with the Emmy award winning Director of live sports, Tom Huet. Tom has created a brilliant career directing and producing all sports from college football to NBA to MLB to the Olympics. He has been a part of all. His passion lies in soccer and how he can help tell the story from his directing matches you watch on MLS Season Pass. Enjoy!

How good it feels to be back at home! Charlotte FC once again dominated possession and pulled out a timely goal in the 68th minute on beautiful passing from Bronico to Reyna to Shinyashiki to one-time the ball in the back of the net to defeat visiting Inter Miami. As in each match, Kahlina was the master of his domain, snuffing the Herons of at least 2 big chance goals! The Crown sit at 8th in the Eastern Conference table after 1/3 of the season, 1 spot out of the playoffs. 

The Crowning Moments really stem from the conductor himself, Miguel Ángel Ramírez, who empowered his squad by his strategy and preparation before the match to noticing key things in the second half with substitutions that ultimately got Charlotte FC the goal they needed to win 1-0.

Charlotte FC has a round of 32 US Open Cup match at Richmond on May 11 followed by another home match against the surging CF Montréal on Saturday at 7pm/19:00 ET.

Audio from MLS, WFNZ, Charlotte FC, TUDN

Los episodios de Crowning Moments se graban tanto en español como en inglés. Toño Ramos aparece como invitado semanal para compartir sus ideas (también conocidas como Momentos de coronación) sobre el partido de la semana anterior, así como algunas claves para el partido que se avecina.

Esta semana: ¡El primer partido en casa de NE Revolution y un partido de carretera contra St. Louis CITY SC para su primer partido en casa!

Crowning Moments episodes are recorded in both Spanish and English. Toño Ramos is featured as a weekly guest to share his insights (aka Crowning Moments) on the match from the previous week as well as some keys for the match ahead. English version starts at 8:45

This week: The NE Revolution home opener and a road match against St. Louis CITY SC for their home opener!

On this episode, I talk with Sam Spencer from the Soccer Sheet and QC Nerve. Sam and I discuss football in Charlotte and the world, women's soccer, the community, a little politics, and his story growing up in a house of sports writers.

Sam is the Communications Director for US House of Representative Alma Adams and was the Chair of the Charlotte Planning Commission.

Matt Swift joins the show today to talk more about how he has become a leader of the Mint City Collective supporters group as well as hosting the Mint City Soccer Show + his journey to Charlotte and soccer's influence on his life.

X: @160_swiftly

IG: @mattswiftness

On this episode we talk about Charlotte FCs newly acquired midfielder, Scott Arfield, who comes by way of a free transfer, meaning he was a free agent after playing for Rangers FC for the past 5 seasons. Colin MacDuff from The Gallant Few Podcast (which follows Rangers FC in Scottish Premiership, Arfield's former club) joins us to share some insights.

The Gallant Few YT📺

Twitter: @TheGallantFew1

Welcome, Bienvineidos to the Charlotte FC Podcast. Today, we delve into the personal side of Charlotte FC Center Back Andrew Privett. We'll discover his passions outside of soccer, the values that drive him, and the experiences that have shaped him as a person and an athlete. Get ready for an insightful conversation that goes beyond the game. I hope you enjoy my conversation with Andrew Privett.

On this episode, I talk with Maxwell Hope, the founder of Infinity City. Infinity City's mission is to make watching events and playing soccer in the Charlotte area a more inclusive experience with organizations (teams such as Charlotte FC) supporting the needs of those with special needs.

We have added a special Q&A if you listen on Spotify to give us your thoughts about how Charlotte FC can help those with special needs watch events.

Charlotte FC is halfway into their first campaign as an MLS expansion squad. We look back at the first 17 matches picking 4 memorable matches, 4 goals, 4 saves, and 4 traditions that "spiked" our interest.

#cltfcpodcast

http://charlottefcpodcast.com/

Charlotte FC began a stretch of 4 matches on the road that will cover almost 6000 miles of travel. This past weekend in Massachusetts, they took on a sliding New England Revolution, a club The Crown had beaten at home 3-1 just a few weeks ago. We recap the match, finding some crowning moments (The Crown's patient play and attack in the first half after being down early + Ortiz's first goal) for Charlotte FC as the fall to the Revs 2-1. Charlotte FC also has 2 matches this week, with a special midweek US Open Cup event in Greenville, SC followed by an MLS road match at Colorado on Saturday at 9pm ET.

After an amazing 3 goal second half comeback victory in the 96th minute over Chicago 3-2, the Crown still find themselves in the playoff hunt with 3 matches to go. Today on this episode we salute the supporters by talking to a few of them who plan, organize, and join in the festivities both near and far to root for Charlotte FC and build the atmosphere, community, and fun unlike any other seen in the Queen City. Some groups have been around for a while, while others are just starting like the Black and Blue Brigade; all of them growing together and sharing the love of soccer with Charlotte FC.

If you are not a member of a group, there are plenty out there to join or just start your own.

https://www.charlottefootballclub.com/supporters-groups/

Black and Blue Brigade - @BlkNBlueBrigade

Play-by-play call courtesy of Charlotte FC TV broadcast team/Charlotte Football Club

Today we have Meg Van Dyk, she is the Sr. Communication Manager for Real Salt Lake, who Charlotte FC takes on today in Utah. We talk with Meg about her role with the club as well as their academy, the NWSL Utah Royals, her pathway, how the club is playing on the pitch as well what lies ahead for them and her career.

@MegVanDyk1

We are fortunate to have Ross Smith, a current Apple TV MLS Season Pass Match Analyst, who you hear along with Tony Husband each week during the MLS Season. I hope you enjoy my conversation with Ross, as we talk about his football playing days, being an announcer for the Portland Timbers, and a little thing called No Tippy Tappy.

@RossSmith_20

nttsoccer.com

Crowning Moments - a quick look back what we learned from the DC United match and a look forward to what is ahead for Charlotte FC. Quotes from Charlotte FC coach Ramirez and more.

On today's episode, Nic talks with Logan Meyer, the founder and host of The Crown Cast. A podcast that focuses on in-depth analysis of data and reactions to Charlotte FC matches. Listen to the Crown Cast after matches as well as Wednesday each week. The Crown Cast is part of the Queen City Podcast Network and has a website where Josh publishes his weekly articles to provide even more data, heat maps, and conclusions to help make sense of what is happening on the pitch for upcoming games. They also have a Tiny Mile bot that can deliver you food or other items in Charlotte.

Besides the Crown Cast itself, Logan and Nic talk about coaching core values, his Bender fandom, theories, data fun, and more.

IG: the_crown_cast

Twitter: The_CrownCast

#spotthebot - Tinymile delivery

crowncast.net

On today's episode we talk with Charlotte FC Match Entertainment Manager, Courtney Wright. Courtney has such a positive energy about her that it is not hard to see why she thrives in leading what fans see before a match, halftime, and after that have made some of the club's traditions and entertainment special.
We talk with Courtney about her work, how she got here, the risks and challenges she has tackled along the way and her joy in helping make every Charlotte FC match a must be there event.

A talk with Carroll Walton about her career as a writer and her approach to writing about Charlotte FC. 

Carroll is a sportswriter covering the Charlotte FC for The Charlotte Ledger. Freelancer, and Mom of three rambunctious boys.  A native Charlottean, Carroll also is a freelance writer for Charlotte Smarty Pants, Charlotte Magazine, and Baseball Hall of Fame Magazine. For 17 years she wrote for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution covering the Atlanta Braves in MLB as well as Baseball America, and she also co-wrote with Chipper Jones, a NY Times Bestseller memoir, titled Ballplayer.

Read or listen to Fútbol Friday (free): a weekly newsletter, distributed on Fridays, that gets you up to speed on Charlotte FC, Charlotte’s new Major League Soccer team. Whether you’re a casual fan, a diehard supporter or know nothing about soccer, Carroll will make you better informed about the players and the dynamics.

@CarrollRogers  | Fútbol Friday  | 📗Ballplayer with Chipper Jones

@cltledger 

Seems like a loss when the opponent gets a late goal that tied the match, but the Crown showed some crowning moments this past week against Colorado, scoring goals at home for the first time this season. The Crew come to town this weekend. What will Charlotte FC do to get a win?

English starts at 5m23s.

Nic talks with former Charlotte FC Graphic Designer and Content Creator, Ryland Tunney. Ryland worked for Charlotte FC for two years before moving across the country to take on a new challenge with the NWSL's San Diego Wave FC. We talk design, his journey, and a little walk down memory lane with some of his favorite Charlotte FC creations.

IG: @rylandonline

X: @rylandonline

https://rylandtunney.wixsite.com/rylandtunney

Charlotte FC Spanish TV color analyst, Antonio Ramos joins us on the pod to talk about his work, career, and Charlotte FC. Listen to the "coach in the booth" as he provides key points and insight during Charlotte FC TV broadcasts on Telemundo Charlotte along with his play-by-play announcer, Jaime Moreno.

Antonio Ramos also has worked for the Panthers Spanish Radio Network since 2015, first starting as Manager of Radio Affiliates in Mexico before joining Moreno in the booth in 2020. He also serves as Social Media Content Manager for “Los Panthers”, the team’s Spanish-language social media account.

In addition to his work with the Panthers, Ramos was the Liga MX play-by-play announcer and radio analyst on Media Cancha Deportes (102.5 FM XHJA) for Club Deportivo Veracruz matches.

@Ramos019  | CharlotteFC Spanish TV Broadcast Schedule

📗Take your eyes off the ball 2.0

Today on the show I talk with Major League Soccer's Sr. Director of Emerging Ventures, Mihir Kumar, to learn about his job, the start of MLS Innovation Lab and the intersection of technology and soccer, his journey to working for Major League Soccer, and more.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mihirkumar1 MLS Innovation Lab article from MLS

• A-Champs
• CAMB.AI
• Fabric
• Fitogether
• Reeplayer
• STAIDIUM U.S.

MLS Innovation Lab - Submit to be a part!

In this episode Nic talks with Tyler Knight ("TK") about being the Head Athletic Trainer and Rehab Coordinator at Charlotte FC, his journey, and more.

Tyler is approaching a decade in Major League Soccer and is the Head Athletic Trainer and Rehab Coordinator at Charlotte FC. Before arriving in Charlotte, he worked with the USMNT in their build-up to the 2022 World Cup, with Real Salt Lake in the 7 years preceding that, and is a University of Oregon and University of Alabama alum. In 2021, Tyler was a member of the Athletic Training Staff of the Year awarded by Major League Soccer. He currently serves as the Secretary for the Professional Soccer Athletic Trainers’ Society, where he previously functioned as the Vice President. In an ongoing effort to create a lasting impact in the Athletic Training and Sports Medicine profession, he also sits on the MLS Education Committee. Tyler is adamant the most important impact we can have in life is in the lives of those around us. Outside of work, he is a Christian, husband to his wonderful wife Hope, dog dad to their little man Tibby, godfather, brother, son, and dedicated friend.

 

IG: @tcknight22

We shake it up a bit this week talking about the upcoming Colorado Rapids away match with MLS Season Pass Match Analyst, Devon Kerr. I think you will like his take on a lot of what Charlotte FC is able to do thus far this year and his bonus shout out at the end.

IG: @dvnkrr

X: @DevonKerr9

Charlotte FC takes on the frontrunners in back-to-back road matches (LAFC and NYCFC) this week. We are off this week during the MLS All-Star action and will be back next week with a new episode. We encourage you to listen again to your favorite episode or hear something new. Thanks! 👑 In our first podcast season we have spoken with so many talented and friendly people who share what they do, their journey here, and a little more about each of them then. Listen again or for the first time! Ep. 102 Shawn McIntosh, Chief Fan Officer of Charlotte FC Ep. 109 CLTFC Creative Content Manager Taylor Banner Ep. 117 Caleb Adams, Creative Content Coordinator for Charlotte FC  Color Analysts Ep. 105 Antonio Ramos from the Charlotte FC Spanish TV broadcasts Ep. 110 Jessica Charman from the English radio broadcasts PxP Announcers Ep. 112 Will Palaszczuk, the Voice of CLTFC Ep. 106 Mike Conti, Atlanta United Ep. 119 Tony Husband, Nashville SC Ep. 111 Matt Hogan, Charlotte FC Radio Broadcast Producer Ep. 104 Alex Andrejev, Journalist - formerly of Charlotte Observer Ep. 104 Community Ep. 115 Dustin Swinehart, Director of Community Engagement Ep. 108 Peter Fink Street Soccer 658 Numbers Ep. 114 MLSPA’s Ty Harden Ep. 120 Stats with AJ Massagee Fans/Supporters Ep. 107 Sombrero Man Hector Cortes Ep. 116 CLTFC Fan TV Lee Hannibal Match=EVENT Ep. 121 Al Raitt, Charlotte FC Director of Presentation and Production Ep. 122 Ryan Thielen, Trigalss Productions, Director of the Hype Video before the players come out Ep. 123 DJ Fannie Mae We have a bunch of terrific guests coming up on future episodes such as CLTFC TV PXP announcers Erik Krakauer (EN) and Jaime Moreno (ES), a chat with Jorge Gonzales, TopBin90 founder, artist Adam Phillips, PR directors at Ally, the Unified team MLS All Stars from Charlotte FC, and many more interesting people who cover and work with Charlotte Football Club.

On this episode I have a conversation with Chris Rivett, Director of Communications for PRO Referees, the organization that provides referees for a number of professional soccer leagues in North America.

I was interested in hearing from Chris his job and role around the structure of PRO Referees, referee training and development, communicating with the public and the media with the challenges of addressing misconceptions, diversity and inclusion in refereeing, and the future of refereeing.

Today on the show I talk with Charlotte FC Defender Bill Tuiloma. Bill has had an amazing football journey starting with leaving his mom and dad in New Zealand at age 18 for the opportunity to play professionally in France. Bill shared some of his adventures, how he approaches his craft, his friendships on the club, and more…just a note: we recorded this episode a week before the opener while the club was in Coachella and there was some audio transmission disruptions. Enjoy Bill Tuiloma!

IG: @tuiloma_official

On this episode I talk with Gabriel Gabor, Major League Soccer's Senior International Communications Consultant about his job, how he got there, what makes MLS special and the adventures he has had along the way.

IG: thegabegabor

X: @MLSGabor

Black and White Cookie Song YT @OutMyWindowLive

Welcome back to another season of the Charlotte FC Podcast where we bring you the fascinating people who work for and around Charlotte FC, MLS, and US Soccer.

On this episode, Nic and Eli talk about the new Coach Dean Smith's impact, new rule changes, and a fun little in and out.

Peter Fink is the Director of Programs at Street Soccer 658, a non-profit in Charlotte that provides soccer programming and more for immigrant, refugee, and housing insecurity populations in Charlotte. Charlotte FC approached Street Soccer 658 about providing their integrative life-skills based soccer training for the communities and populations where the mini-pitches would be constructed.

Twitter: @streetsoccer658  | Instagram: @streetsoccer658

Website: http://www.streetsoccer658.org/

Get Involved - http://www.streetsoccer658.org/get-involved.html

On this episode we talk with Atlanta United radio play-by-play announcer Mike Conti to catch up what has been going on since Charlotte FC last met Atlanta United as well as learn a little more about Mike and his work. 

Follow Mike at @MikeConti929

Nic talks with the Refereeing Hall of Famer Alex Prus about his career and his current role as Director of Match Officials for PRO2 Referees. Alex oversees about 80 referees for the NWSL, MLS Next Pro, and USL, from their selection to development to training to mentorship after having a stellar career as an MLS and FIFA referee along with playing for the Polish National Team.

ProReferees.com

@alexprus

Episode 101

How did Charlotte FC come about? We talk with Sports Business Journal reporter Bret McCormick (@Bretjust1T) about the bidding process Charlotte and Tepper Sports went through to get the expansion franchise we now call Charlotte FC.

We also explore a little history of the MLS and recap all that has led up to the inaugural game on Feb. 26 in Washington, DC against DC United.

 

Anna Witte is the Charlotte FC Match Analyst for the English Radio broadcast. She joins Will Palaszczuk in the booth to begin the 2025 season. The Cary, NC native is also host of the SiriusXM show, USL Super League Game week where she hosts along side Marion Crowder and is a sideline reporter for Carolina Ascent FC. Anna brings almost 10 years of broadcasting history in soccer, working as a play-by-play announcer for the NWSL KC Current, as well as various duties from analyst, sideline reporter, studio host, camera/editing for Goal USA, CBS Golazo, Big Ten Network, NBC Washington. She is also a former college player at Penn State University and loves fashion, pop culture, and finding cool spots to eat food.

X:AnnaWitte_

IG: annawitte

In this episode, Nic talks with Jorge Gonzales about his growing sports media company, TopBin90. We learn more about how it started, his approach to covering soccer, his childhood, and his mentors, as well as the future of TopBin90.

https://www.topbin90.com/

Twitter: @TopBin90

Instagram: @TopBin90

YouTube

TikTok: @realTopBin90

On this episode I talk with Steven Marques, the cog in the relationship between Ally and Charlotte FC. Steven has been a part of the Ally team working with Charlotte FC since they first were secured the kit rights with the club. Learn more about what Steven does day to day and about his journey to get to be a part of this relationship and his role with Ally. Steven's family immigrated from Portugal and he moved to North Carolina when he was 6. His passion for soccer been with him to this day and has found a good fit at Ally.

In this episode, we look at where Charlotte FC is midseason, what players they need, and what a Charlotte FC playoff team would look like. In addition to the Charlotte FC talk, Toño also shares his MLS All-Star lineup.

English version at 14m 11s.

The March Madness continues...Charlotte FC-style! The first battle between Charlotte FC and Atlanta United goes to the Five Stripes 2-1! This week's Crowning Moments go to Ben Bender who was a spark of creative offensive opportunities while earning his first start in Atlanta, our Manager Miquel Angel Ramirez who continues to make key adjustments at half time to propel another improved second half that produced Charlotte FC's first goal of the season as well as changed the tone of the game and the possession time Atlanta dominated in the first half and lastly to squad overall for continuing to battle and improve each week. Bring on the Revolution!

On this episode Nic talks with Will Martin, the Communications Coordinator for Charlotte FCs day-to-day media for 1st Team schedules and media operations as well as the primary contact for media assets and player requests. In just a short time, Will has managed to use his writing skills, maturity and understanding of big moments, and a little bit of luck to craft his soccer journey at Charlotte FC.

We talk about his journey and what he does with the team, along with other areas of interest including running, hiking, and appreciation for others including referees.

March 22 2022

The Crowning Moment - Charlotte FC 3 New England Revolution 1 + striker Karol Swiderski, midfielder Jordy Alcivar, and the match plan (executed masterfully)

In other notes - Charlotte FC striker Karol Świderski and head coach Miguel Ángel Ramírez earned spots on the MLS Team of the Week for Week 4 following the club’s 1st win in MLS history.

The MLS Team of the week consists of 11 starters, 1 coach, and 7 bench players (similar to an honorable mention, not necessarily players who didn’t start.) Ben Bender was recognized as a Bench player in the MLS Team of the Week in Week 3 following his play against Atlanta United.

The Charlotte FC defense did a fantastic job keeping NE Revolution'’s Carles Gil at bay with the exception of conceding the penalty kick score. I am interested to see how Miquel Ramirez has the Crownheads defending the MLS leading goal scorer 6’2 Brandon Vázquez and Luciano Acosta the Argentine midfielder who leads the MLS in Key Passes with 17.

On this episode Nic has a conversation with Omar Jorge Peña, the CEO of Compare Foods Supermarkets. They discuss what is like to run a family business, football in Charlotte, connecting customers and the community to their sponsorships along with their relationship with Charlotte FC.

A look back at 2024 while also looking ahead at 25 categories that interest us about Charlotte FC, MLS, and soccer in the US.

I am joined by two friends of the podcast, Logan Meyer from the Crowncast and Eli Finelli from Side Story Sports. We give our assessments of 2024 and predictions for 2025 from coaching to players to playing style to MLS All Star Game to Apple TV coverage. Enjoy!

Category

Manager: Dean Smith

1. What is his focus as a leader?

2. Dean’s Tactical focus?

3. Assistant coach most important to the club?

CLTFC:

4. Most impactful DP

5. Most Impactful Newcomer

6. Starter that makes the most difference / hard to replace

7. CLTFC player that got least amount of time on the pitch who should have earned more

8. 1st to depart after season starts (only 2025)

9. Strength of the squad

10. Achilles heel of this squad

11. Competitions (which one do you think will be the best; any that MLS teams compete in)

12. International country most influence on MLS

13. All-star match up (in Austin) vs? (Only 2025)

MLS

14. MLS Supporters Shield (2025 only)

15. MLS Surprise team

16. MLS Overrated Team

17. Playing style wins out or formation

18. MLS player most impactful to team success

19. Set play

(PKs or CK or Free Kick or other)

20. Rule change

21. Celebrations (type)

AppleTV MLS Season Pass

22. Graphics style (2025 only)

23. Statistics (ones we liked introduced in 24’ and ones we think should exist in 2025)

24. Fan Tradition (pre or post) or Chant or types of chant

25. Charlotte FC Regular Season Finish and overall MLS Cup

Today on the show I talk with Charlotte FC Defender Nathan Bryne beyond what we see on the pitch. While Nate is a private person, we learn more about him and how he approaches his life as a footballer and more. Nate's effort and intensity on the pitch are two characteristics I have admired since he joined the Crown. I think you will enjoy learning more about Nathan Byrne as much as I did.

Esta semana: ¡El partido fuera de casa contra St. Louis CITY SC para su primer partido encasa y esperando el partido de rivalidad con Atlanta United!

This week: The away match against St. Louis CITY SC for their home opener and looking forward to the Rivalry match with Atlanta United!

English version starts at 10:20

______

Los episodios de Crowning Moments se graban tanto en español como en inglés. Toño Ramos aparece como invitado semanal para compartir sus ideas (también conocidas como Momentos de coronación) sobre el partido de la semana anterior, así como algunas claves para el partido que se avecina.

Crowning Moments episodes are recorded in both Spanish and English. Toño Ramos is featured as a weekly guest to share his insights (aka Crowning Moments) on the match from the previous week as well as some keys for the match ahead. 

On this episode we talk with Ty Harden, the Director of Player Relations for the MLSPA. In his role he is responsible for overseeing the Player Relations Department, which serves as the primary bridge between the MLS player pool and the MLSPA Office staff. We talk about player salaries, the CBA, and more. https://mlsplayers.org/ https://twitter.com/mlspa @MLSPA https://www.instagram.com/mlspa/

Eli and Nic discuss what we learned from matches 16-23, plus the first Leagues Cup match @FC Dallas (View from the Spires). Also included in this episode are our usual segments, The Gallantry, Voices from the Kingdom, and our Regal Proclamations for the month ahead.

We have a special pre-match talk with Gavin Rushnell from the Lion's blog and podcast which has been covering Orlando City SC since 2019 to get a perspective from the Lion's side of things for this Saturday's 7:30 pm match in Orlando for Charlotte FC.

We continue with our mini series on what goes on at Charlotte FC home matches from an event standpoint. The last two episodes put a spotlight on what Al Raitt, the Director of Event Presentation, does and the behind the scenes commentary from the producer for the hype video that plays before players enter the pitch. Now we have the one who gets that party started with the music, Dj Fannie Mae, the official DJ for Charlotte FC home matches. We learn more about what she does on match days as well a little more about Fannie, how she got into being a DJ, and her work outside of Charlotte FC.

Instagram: @djfannie

Visit her website: djfanniemae.com

Today we take an inside look at how the Tifos are made for Charlotte FC. We talk with the operations manager, creative organizer, and other supporters who are a part of making Tifos for Charlotte FC matches!

https://twitter.com/CLTFCSGTifo

Match day is here again as Charlotte FC takes on Nashville SC in the Bank. Today our guest comes to us from the Music City, he is Lead Commentator for Nashville SC, Tony Husband. Tony has been the voice of Nashville SC since their debut season in 2020. He is a UK and US sports broadcaster who has worked on some of the most iconic BBC Sports programs such as Match of the Day, Final Score, and BBC South Today. He also has covered major events including the Olympics, the FA Cup Final, Champions League football, World Athletics Series and Wimbledon. In 2020 Tony was named Royal Television Society Southern Sports Journalist Of The Year.

Born in Plymouth, Tony played cricket for Devon Colts while at Plymouth College and graduated from Bournemouth University in 1998. He started his sports broadcasting career as Southampton commentator for BBC Radio Solent and covered the 2003 FA Cup Final.

Twitter @nashvillesc @TonyHusband

Instagram @tony_husband

#EveryoneN

https://www.nashvillesc.com/

On this episode we talk with Evan and Skyler from the Charlotte FC Unified team about their all-star experience along with their head coach and soccer legend, Kevin Sims.

This week on the Charlotte FC Podcast, Eli and Nic take a look back at what we have learned from matches 9-15 of the season and where the club is going into the month of June. Look for this type of episode to interrupt our regular interviews with the fascinating people around Charlotte FC and MLS each month! Here are some of the fun segments we created for these episodes: 🏰View from the Spires - a collective view of how the club is playing overall during the past matches. 🎖️The Gallantry - where we give out badges to individuals for their play during these matches. 📢Voices from the Kingdom - fan/supporters share their knowledge and opinions on various questions 📜The Royal Archives - Some stats and info from previous seasons and meetings with opponents 🔮Regal Proclamations - Our thoughts on the upcoming match and predictions Follow us on ⁠Twitter⁠ and ⁠Instagram⁠ #cltfcpodcast Website: ⁠https://www.charlottefcpodcast.com

Al Raitt is the Director of Event Presentation and Production for Charlotte FC matches. For each Charlotte FC match everything except the actual game play is essentially a theatrical event that is carefully thought out, crafted, and executed precisely almost down to the second all the way until the lights turn off and the stadium is empty. The person behind all of this is one of the best in the business if not THE best. He is Al Raitt.

Hector Cortes, also known as Sombrero Man, has been dancing, cheering, and attending Charlotte sporting events for almost a decade. We talk with him about  how it all started, the rise of Charlotte FC, his Mexican roots, and more.

Follow Hector on Twitter @FKNTORO and also on Instagram @fkntoro

There is no matchday this weekend so that allowed me to catch up with Eric Krakauer, the lead commentator for Charlotte FC television broadcasts.

Eric is a multilingual soccer commentator and analyst who previously worked at beIN Sports USA with duties such as producer, play-by-play announcer, color analyst and studio analyst.

He was born and raised in Portugal and played soccer at the academy level before moving to England in order to finish his secondary education. After completing his A-Levels, Eric moved to New York City, where he attended Manhattan College and played for their Division 1 soccer team.

Eric then worked as a public school teacher in New York City while also doing freelance soccer writing for top soccer publications, mostly covering the New York Red Bulls and New York City Football Club in MLS. Eric also created, produced and hosted the BigSoccerHead Podcast, which featured interviews with soccer personalities from US and world soccer.

Known as an authority on Portuguese soccer, Eric is a frequent guest on Sirius XM FC and Talksport Radio.

Eric also played for the Manhattan Kickers in the Cosmopolitan Soccer League for twelve years after graduating from College.

@EricKrakauer

This week's crowning moment was that Charlotte FC earned their first point away from home during this past weekend’s a scoreless draw (0-0) against the Colorado Rapids. There is general sense of confidence that has shifted expectations for Charlotte FC recently on these road matches. You could just feel it when watching them play in Colorado.

Charlotte FC moves on to Orlando for a Saturday, April 30 match at 7:30. Orlando City SC recently lost at home to the NY Red Bulls 3-0; being outshot 17-3 despite possessing it 64% of the time. Orlando still sits with 14 points overall in 3rd place in the Eastern Conference. 

Toño is back from all of the Panther Draft madness and family in town. We crown the moments from the US Cup and DC United. Also, we look ahead the NYCFC match and Orlando City in the US Cup.

We flipped it this week. The English version is first and the Spanish version is at 14m23s

Toño está de regreso de toda la locura del Panther Draft y la familia en la ciudad. Coronamos los momentos de la Copa EE.UU. y DC United. Además, miramos hacia el partido de NYCFC y Orlando City en la Copa de EE. UU.

Lo volteamos esta semana. La versión en inglés es la primera y la versión en español está en 14m23s

Today on the show, Katie Phillips, the manager for the Greater Goals Soccer and Literacy program from Charlotte FC joins me to talk about her role as well as her journey to help kids.

Katie Phillips is from Rochester, New York, and has been around soccer her whole life. She played varsity soccer at Houghton College and moved to Charlotte, North Carolina, following receiving her degree. Here, Katie helped start the Soccer Foundation of Charlotte. As the current Greater Goals Manager for Charlotte FC, Katie is passionate about using soccer as a tool to help connect, mentor and serve the community.

April 5 2022 Charlotte FC falls to Philadelphia Union 2-0 on two early goals in each half. The Crowning Moment this week goes to team's improved passing and spacing despite the early goals and changing the way Charlotte FC needed to play. Charlotte FC takes on Atlanta United on Sunday, April 10 at 1:30pm. This is the second and last regular season meeting with the Five Stripes.

We have the queens of Charlotte FC Fan Podcast, The Queens' Pitch on the show today. I hope you enjoy listening to the story of how Bridget McCall and Kara Hunter started their podcast and what they do to bring a female voice to CharlotteFC-verse. We talk about favors and rats, Queens Tea, and just get to know them beyond their podcast.

Today we take an inside look at how the MLS schedule is made with Brad Pursel, Sr. Vice President at MLS for Media and Game Schedule management. We talk with Brad about the scheduling process for the season from working with Apple, TSN, and Fox to how the clubs are involved to the new playoffs, and the Leagues Cup as well as collaboration with worldwide soccer organizations. We also explore his role within MLS over the past 25 years.

We go deep with the Spanish Radio Play-by-play announcer for Charlotte FC to learn more about how he got started, how he prepares for matches, his elevator ride with John Madden, sharing success, and helping the community. Jaime even sings for us!

Listen to Jaime call the matches along with Antonio Ramos on La Raza 106.1 in Charlotte.

@jaimeNFLpantera

Besides winning the rematch with Atlanta United, Charlotte FC showed they can play a beautiful game (one of their best first halves this campaign), make adjustments, and have a home advantage that truly helps the squad on the pitch. Jordi Alcivar scores an "Olimpico" to put the Crowns on top 1-0 for good in the 11th minute. MAR talks about his squad efforts and the special players he has.

If you've ever attended a Charlotte FC match, you know this voice and probably participate with him on the Starting XI and goals! Mike Markham is the Charlotte FC PA Announcer who keeps us all informed during the match. On this episode we talk with Mike about how he started as a PA Announcer and his work with the club and elsewhere. Mike has worked for over 60 event promoters in North America, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean. From the biggest events in Europe to the Rio Olympic Games, Mike's voice has echoed through venues around the world. Follow on Twitter: @MikeTheVoice https://www.ring-announcer.com/

Finally a victory for Charlotte FC! Listen to Toño share his Crowning Moments as well as a look forward to what needs to happen to continue the winning ways against the New York Red Bulls. English version begins at 7m10s.

¡Finalmente una victoria para Charlotte FC! Escuche a Toño compartir sus Momentos de coronación, así como una mirada anticipada a lo que debe suceder para continuar ganando contra los New York Red Bulls.

Today we talk with Ryan Thielen, Founder of Triglass Productions and director for the CLTFC opening video trailer player before players enter the pitch along with Al Raitt from Charlotte FC to talk about the video and and how it came about. Triglass is a team of future facing creative outlaws, passionate about video production & motion design. Whether it’s short films, 2D & 3D motion graphic packages, promos, broadcast commercials, and title sequences, we are not afraid to be ambitious. Triglass has worked with dozens of professional sports teams creating various content. Triglass Productions was proud to be awarded Best Show Open & Best Hype Video at the Golden Matrix Awards 2021 IDEA Conference. With 26 regional Emmy nominations and 19 regional Emmy wins, we are fortunate to have our work recognized by our peers, while helping our clients take home some of their most prestigious accomplishments. Visit Triglass Productions at https://www.triglassproductions.com/our-studio Watch it here - https://youtu.be/Lp6AcRglaSk

Today on the show we talk tickets with Leah Rodgers, Director of Ticket Sales and Services for Charlotte FC. We discuss managing a team to listening to fans needs to working within budgets and planning for events. Prior to her role with Charlotte FC Leah spent time with the University of Notre Dame and the Detroit Lions in various sales roles. She has been with the Club for three and a half years. She is originally from Lake Mary, Florida and played collegiate volleyball at USC Aiken. Outside of work, Leah likes to cook and grill, and is a loving dog mom to her golden retriever, Lincoln.

Today's guest is Jon MacGregor. He moved to Charlotte in 2022 to become the Director of Performance & Sports Science, where he oversees all of the Medical and Performance departments for the Club. We talk all things performance, his day-to-day, the big picture for Charlotte FC with Crown Legacy and the Academy, as well as his learning from Real Madrid's head, and his approach to helping players here be their best. Oh yeah, and he is a big sports fan growing up around Boise, Idaho. Jon is in his 13th year in the MLS, beginning with the Vancouver Whitecaps in 2011-2014 as an assistant ATC with the 1st team and lead ATC with the academy. 2015-2016 Assistant ATC with Columbus Crew, in which he was a part of staff of the year in 2015. He was a part of the Eastern Conference win in 2015 with Columbus. In 2017, Jon moved into the Head ATC role with Columbus Crew. 2018-2021 moved to Portland to become the Director of Health & Wellness and Head ATC. In 2018 & 2021, they won the Western Conference. Jon graduated from Boise State University in 2007 with a BS in Athletic Training and graduated from Southern New Hampshire University with an MS in Business Administration in 2015.

Outside of work, Jon has been married for 11 to his amazing wife Kate. They have 3 beautiful girls, Haddie (9), Gwyneth (7) & Setlla (4).

On this episode Nic talks with Andrew Wiebe, a journalist with Major League Soccer working on MLS Season Pass as an analyst, a columnist at MLS Soccer, and Extratime Podcast Host.

Andrew has been a part of Major League Soccer since 2010 working as an editor, writer, columnist, podcaster, host, and MLS Season Pass TV analyst on Countdown, 360 and Wrap-up. He is intensely passionate about soccer and growing the game and goes all in everything he does. Our conversation weaves through journey from his big chance to move to NYC with MLS, to how he manages all the hats he wears, his take on soccer in America today and how he became the unofficial admin of the Patrick Agyemang Hive at MLS. I hope you enjoy my conversation with Andrew Wiebe. https://x.com/andrew_wiebe

We welcome the Voice of Charlotte FC, Will Palaszczuk. Will’s journey to Charlotte started in Long Island NY with stops along the way in DC, the University of Missouri where his craft was launched as a broadcast journalism student at one of the premier journalism programs in the world, then to Kingston NC, Houston, TX, Greenville SC. Atlanta, and Columbia SC. His path to Charlotte FC includes work as Host/Reporter/Anchor and Producer of SportsTalk South Carolina, South Carolina Radio Network, Weekend Host/Anchor at 92.9 The Game in Atlanta, Assistant Program Director/Radio Host SB Nation in Houston, Assistant Program Director/Host/Play-By/Play KTGR- Columbia, MO. He has done it all!
He is not only a learner but a sponge when it comes to soccer play-by-play.

@WilliePStyle

https://wfnz.com/

Prior to coming to Charlotte and Charlotte FC

• Evening, weekend & fill-in host for 92.9 The Game in Atlanta and WFNZ

Host/Reporter/Anchor, SportsTalk South Carolina, South Carolina Radio Network

• Host and Executive Producer of SportsTalk, a nightly statewide talk show covering South Carolina Gamecocks and Clemson Tigers athletics
• Started online Periscope feed for SportsTalk, averaging 2,000 viewers per show
• Afternoon Sports Anchor providing hourly updates for 28 statewide affiliates
• On-site reporter for South Carolina and Clemson football, basketball and baseball
• Online web content provider (writing, audio and video)

Assistant Program Director/Radio Host SB Nation in Houston, TX

Graduate of University of Missouri-Columbia (Broadcast Journalism)

• Assistant Program Director/Host/Play-By/Play KTGR- Columbia, MO
• Host of "The Big Show" Afternoon Drive program from 4p-6p
• Host of “Tiger Gameday” Pregame show on College Football Saturdays
• Wrote and delivered 2 hourly local SportsCenter updates from 12p to 4p
• Host of "Tiger Talk w/Robin Pingeton" for Mizzou Sports Properties/Learfield Sports
• Play-by-Play announcer for Mizzou Women’s Basketball and Softball
• High School Basketball/Football Play-by-Play
• Producing/Writing Commercials
• Missouri Broadcasters Award Winner for Excellence in Sports Programming (2011, 2014)
• Missouri Broadcasters Award Winner for Excellence in Play-By-Play (2011, 2013, 2014)

https://staatalent.com/client/will-palaszczuk/

Khaled Ali joins me today on the podcast to explain eMLS, his journey as a gamer and soccer/football fan, and his approach to playing and learning Esports, and the similarities with the Charlotte FC squad.

Article 📰: https://www.charlottefootballclub.com/news/competitive-drive-and-work-ethic-has-propelled-khaled-ali-to-fifa-success

https://twitter.com/khaledali_97

http://www.twitch.tv/CLTFC_Khaled

On this episode we are joined by the Charlotte FC Fan Experience Coordinator, Nezzie Miranda. We talk about here journey to Charlotte from Santa Cruz, California, what she does for the club, and more.

IG: @nezziemiranda https://www.linkedin.com/in/nezziemiranda

Get to know Caleb Adams, the Creative Content Coordinator and writer for Charlotte FC! On this episode we talk about his role with the club, writing, where his soccer knowledge comes from, the intersection of language, learning, and culture to foster relationships with people, as well as how he got to Charlotte FC and the rest of his journey both past and future.

Twitter: @itscalebadams

IG: @imcalebadams

https://www.charlottefootballclub.com/news/

https://regalsoccer.com

Los episodios de Crowning Moments se graban tanto en español como en inglés. Toño Ramos aparece como invitado semanal para compartir sus ideas (también conocidas como Momentos de coronación) sobre el partido de la semana anterior, así como algunas claves para el partido que se avecina.

Esta semana: ¡Pretemporada y antes del primer partido en casa de NE Revolution!

Crowning Moments episodes are recorded in both Spanish and English. Toño Ramos is featured as a weekly guest to share his insights (aka Crowning Moments) on the match from the previous week as well as some keys for the match ahead. English version starts at 8:25

This week: Preseason and leading up to NE Revolution home opener!

Esta semana: ¡Consistencia del Atlanta United contra el Charlotte FC en su victoria por 3-0 y esperamos con ansias a Orlando City y cómo la Corona puede armarlo!

This week we hear from Toño about the Atlanta United match and their consistency against Charlotte FC in their 3-0 win as well as looking forward to Orlando City and how the Crown can put it together! English starts at 7m13s.

On this episode, Nic talks with Nick Scardina, one of the four 2023 SuperDraft picks who was signed to a CLTFC contract and is battling to be a part of Dean Smith's 1st team. Nick talks about his mindset as a professional, the changes from the college game where he was a standout at Univ. of Washington, his coaches, and challenges with changing positions, and the excitement of being a part of this organization.

IG: @nickscardina

There is much that goes on behind the scenes of radio broadcast or podcast. On this episode we talk with Matt Hogan, the Radio Producer for Charlotte FC and Radio Production Associate & Podcast Producer for the Carolina Panthers. 

Twitter: @Heauxgan (obviously an LSU Tigers fan too! and MLB Texas Rangers)

In this episode, I sit down with Charlotte FC Assistant General Manager Bobby Belair, who works closely with GM Zoran Krneta on player personnel decisions and the construction of Crown Legacy, shaping the talent and depth of the club.

A Carolina native, Bobby played college soccer at Brown and Clemson before transitioning to coaching and administration due to injuries. He gained early experience as a graduate assistant under Mike Noonan at Clemson before joining Atlanta United in 2016 as Academy Administrator. There, he quickly moved into player personnel, learning under Carlos Bocanegra. Bobby made the jump to Charlotte in 2021 and has been instrumental in the club’s growth ever since.

Join me as we dive into Bobby’s journey, insights, and impact on Charlotte FC. Hope you enjoy the episode!

x:@BobbyBelair | IG:bobbybelair/

🌐charlottefootbllclub.com/technical-staff

Crowning Moments from last week's home opener versus LA Galaxy and a look at the start of the rivalry with Atlanta United for this weekend's game.

Sam Jones joins the show today to share his thoughts on Atlanta United and the upcoming Charlotte FC match as well as his career as a writer for MLS Soccer dot com, The Striker, and his podcast, 5 Stripe Final.

@j_SamJones

https://www.thestriker.com/team/atlanta-united

MLSsoccer.com - https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/topics/voices-sam-jones/

Sign up for the Daily Kickoff - https://www.mlssoccer.com/the-daily-kickoff/

5 Stripe Final Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/atlanta-soccer-podcast-network/id1341528354

This week on the Charlotte FC Podcast, Eli and Nic take a look back at what we have learned from the first 4 matches of the season and where the club is going for match 5 against the New York Red Bulls.

Look for this type of episode to interrupt our regular interviews with the fascinating people around Charlotte FC and MLS every 5th week!

Here are some of the fun segments we created for these episodes:

View from the Spires - a collective view of how the club is playing overall during the past 4 matches.

The Gallantry - where we give out badges to individuals for their play during these matches.

Voices from the Kingdom - fan/supporters share their knowledge and opinions on various questions

The Royal Archives - Some stats and info from previous seasons and meetings with opponents

Regal Proclamations - Our thoughts on the upcoming match and predictions

Follow us on Twitter and Instagram

#cltfcpodcast

Website: https://www.charlottefcpodcast.com

I want to welcome you into my conversation with Natalee Jarrett, the Vice President of Business Operations for Charlotte FC. As you may know, we created this podcast because there are so many fascinating people behind the scenes that drive what fans and the community see. We want to share their stories. Natalee was one of the first employees for the club working in partnerships during the beginning days when the club did not even have a name and was just MLS Charlotte. Now she manages a vast array of departments across Charlotte FC and is the facilitator that keeps it all together. We talk with Natalee about growing up around NASCAR, getting her big chance at World Team Tennis, and what she has helped build in Charlotte.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalee-jarrett/

Enjoy.

On this episode we talk with Adam Parr, the Head of Performance at Charlotte FC. Adam brings so much MLS Soccer experience to the Performance Team, having worked for Chivas USA, Reno (USL), and Minnesota United as well as having his own training business in Beverly Hills, CA. Enjoy his passion when he talks about data and how those numbers can really escalate and help inform so that performance can be maximized.

Sports Journalist covering Soccer, Baseball, Basketball, and Olympic Sports as Sports Director for Progreso Hispano News

@progresohispanonews | 🌐https://progresohispanonews.com/

Arturo is also the Founder and Content Creator for Noventa y Más, a new Spanish-language media company covering Charlotte FC, MLS, US National Teams, and CONCACAF. Episodes available on YouTube and other social media outlets.

IG: @noventaplusof TW: @noventaplusof

Follow Arturo: @atuzcategui

A new sports team in the Queen City also means our local media have a new and exciting venture to add to their reporting. On this episode we talk with award winning journalist, Alex Andrejev from The Charlotte Observer about Charlotte FC and her other work, including a splendid podcast series called "Payback".

NASCAR and Charlotte FC beat reporter Alex Andrejev joined The Charlotte Observer in January 2020 following an internship at The Washington Post. She is a two-time Associated Press Sports Editor award winner for her NASCAR beat coverage and National Motorsports Press Association award winner. She is the host of McClatchy’s podcast “Payback” about women’s soccer and social inequities in sport.

Twitter: @AndrejevAlex | @theobserver

Payback podcast - https://link.chtbl.com/longshotpayback

A talk with Tom about covering St. Louis CITY SC and his career. Tom has been working for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch since 1996 and is the Beat Writer for them covering St. Louis CITY SC, St. Louis Blues, and the Cardinals (MLB). 

🎧You can also listen to him along with his co-host Carter Chapley on their podcast, "STL Soccer Talk"!

➡Twitter: @tomtimm

🌐https://www.stltoday.com/sports

On this episode I talk with Alex Burakoff, Director of Partnership Marketing for Major League Soccer.

Alex was an attorney before his current role. We talk about how that has helped him in his role at MLS as well as his management of the relationships with partners such as RBC Wealth Management for example, and overseeing and executing hundreds of initiatives. Alex and I discuss contract management, the appeal of Major League Soccer to corporate partners, the culture at MLS, and his background transition to sports and the work he continues to do to improve and himself and those around him as a leader.

This week on the Charlotte FC Podcast, Eli and Nic take a look back at what we have learned from the second 4 matches of the season and where the club is going for match 9 against the Columbus Crew.

Look for this type of episode to interrupt our regular interviews with the fascinating people around Charlotte FC and MLS every 5th week!

Here are some of the fun segments we created for these episodes:

View from the Spires - a collective view of how the club is playing overall during the past 4 matches.

The Gallantry - where we give out badges to individuals for their play during these matches.

Voices from the Kingdom - fan/supporters share their knowledge and opinions on various questions

The Royal Archives - Some stats and info from previous seasons and meetings with opponents

Regal Proclamations - Our thoughts on the upcoming match and predictions

Follow us on ⁠Twitter⁠ and ⁠Instagram⁠

#cltfcpodcast

Website: ⁠https://www.charlottefcpodcast.com

With a new franchise about to have their first home match, we explore the supporters/fans that will attend, watch, and listen as well as some traditions and culture that are already being created for Charlotte FC. + An interview with Charlotte FC Chief Fan Officer, Shawn McIntosh @CharlotteFC_CFO. We talk about how he came into his position and what his role is for Charlotte FC is in shaping these things!

Matchday information:

South Mint St. and Graham St. will be closed to road traffic on match day for foot traffic and pre-match festivities.

Supporters’ groups’ tailgate will take place at the parking lot on the corner of W Morehead St. and McNinch St.

The march to the match start around 90 minutes prior to the start of the match. It follows a path towards Graham St. and enters the stadium through the East Gate off South Mint St.

Supporters Council Groups: Mint City Collective, Southbound & Crown, Uptown Ultras, Carolina Hooliganz, Blue Furia

Learn the Chants - click here

Fan Zone on Mint St. (fun giveaways and interactive experience) opens 2 hours before a match and 1 hour after match start time.

BOA Stadium Policies A to Z 

Parking and traffic - Use Waze or Google Maps (partnered with Charlotte FC to have event day traffic plans)

RADIO NETWORK:

English Radio

• Raleigh, NC- WCMC FM 99.9
• Greenville, SC- WROO FM 104.9
• Myrtle Beach, SC- WSEA FM 100.3
• Lynchburg, VA- WBRG FM 105.1, FM 104.5, AM 1050
• Rocky Mount, NC- WZAX FM 99.3
• Statesville, NC- WSIC FM 105.9, FM 100.7, AM 1400

Spanish Radio

• Charlotte- 106.1 FM (WOLS)
• Triad, NC- 98.3 FM (WIST)
• Greenville, SC- 105.7 FM/910 AM (WOLI)
• Wilmington, NC- 94.1 FM/1310 AM (WLSG)
• Charleston, SC- 103.9 FM/980 AM (WAZS)
• Columbia, SC- 840 AM (WCEO)
• Raleigh, NC- WRTG 1000AM
• Durham, NC- WLLQ 1530AM
• Reidsville, NC- WREV 1220 AM/93.5 FM
• Jacksonville, NC- WSRP 910AM
• Lillington, NC.- WLLN 1307AM/92.7 FM

On this episode we have the pleasure of talking with the color commentator for the Charlotte FC Radio English (and British 🇬🇧) broadcasts, Jessica Charman. Jessica shares with us how she came to this position, her life growing up in England, her goalkeeper mindset, and her drive to be authentic and real. She also opens up about how she almost quit broadcasting and what and who inspired her to be where she is today. Jessica left the village of Harefield, England outside London to begin her playing career at Clayton State University in the States where she earned several honors including being nominated as NCAA Woman of the Year in 2018, all while earning her Journalism degree there. She has been the voice of Peach Belt Conference Soccer Championships and Mercer University soccer, as well as broadcasting for Atlanta United 2.  Listen to Jess on WFNZ 610 AM/92.7 FM in Charlotte and across the Charlotte FC Radio Network Crown Corner podcast Twitter: @JessTalksFootie audio montage courtesy of WFNZ

A tough loss at the hands of Real Salt Lake, but there it is not all doom and gloom. There is hope for progress. Charlotte FC is just 3 points from the playoff line and may be ready to have that home match fans have been waiting for. What will they need to do?

English version starts at 5m52s