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Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast NPLH Studio

Plongez dans la liste complète des épisodes de NPLH Studio. Chaque épisode est catalogué accompagné de descriptions détaillées, ce qui facilite la recherche et l'exploration de sujets spécifiques. Suivez tous les épisodes de votre podcast préféré et ne manquez aucun contenu pertinent.

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TitreDateDurée
108. Charlie Hood08 Sep 202601:18:18

Charlie Hood is, among a hundred things, the co-owner of The Volley in London and founder of (A)WAY – a paper about football.

He shares how a sculpture degree, Brick Lane gallery, and a near-constant string of side projects led him from skateboard art and zines to running a football bar in Old Street and publishing a magazine about the game’s culture, travel, and irreverence.

Along the way, he explains why books and magazines still matter, how print can capture an ethos that social media never will, and why the best football experiences are often found found far, far away from the Premier League spotlight.

For anyone wondering what direction to head in life, Charlie's journey is evidence that going where your nose takes you often leads to exciting things.

Enjoy!

--

More from Charlie at Easy Days Studio

107. Zoe Allen13 Aug 202601:16:43

Zoe Allen is a Publicist, Writer, and Presenter living in New York City.

She shares how a Substack experiment and a single DM led to work with Versus, a front row seat at the World Cup and a deeper belief in why the game matters.

We unpack her path into sports media – a mix of luck, hustle, and saying 'Yes' before you feel ready – the beauty in building relationships in the football space, and turning those connections into opportunities.

Zoe also opens up about the emotional side of the game - the collective energy of stadiums, the memories football creates, and the women’s game as a space where she found both inspiration and belonging.

Enjoy!

----

More from Zoe here

Editor's Note | Recording (Brief) Hiatus07 Jun 202600:01:24

Hola Epuipo.

A quick explanation (that you didn't ask for) behind the brief recording hiatus.

Back soon.

JF

106. Domo Wells14 May 202600:58:58

Domo Wells is a Creative Director and Founder of LA-based sports apparel and design company, Dead Dirt.

She shares her journey from childhood sketches and cutting up Barbie Clothes, to designing groundbreaking apparel for NWSL, revealing how self-confidence and a fearless desire to challenge the status quo fuelled her evolution.

Drawing from her streetwear roots, experiences as a touring DJ, and deep passion for regional culture, Domo developed a distinctive style that has helped craft authentic, impactful identities.

There’s also a mini skin-care tutorial thrown in there.

If you’re an aspiring designer or entrepreneur, this episode is your blueprint for following your purpose and redefining what's possible.

Enjoy!

105. Kyle Sheldon16 Apr 202601:04:55

Kyle Sheldon is an award-winning marketing veteran with two decades of experience in pro sports and founder of Name & Number, America’s only soccer (sorry UK listeners) specific creative agency. 

We walk along his career path, from first day in the door at D.C United, to today as CEO of his own company, stopping off everywhere in between. Including NASCAR!

Kyle shares his experiences from stints at MLS’s finest, what he’s learned from his W’s and L’s, and gives an insight into what it takes to succeed in the industry and make it meaningful in the process.

Enjoy! 

104. Cheyenne Foster12 Mar 202601:36:33

Between Clean Sheets founder, Cheyenne Foster, shares her transformative journey from a political career in DC to living and traveling in a van across the US.

We discuss how she navigates the challenges of content creation, authenticity, and the capitalist nature of sports while embracing a life of freedom and purpose. 

It’s a journey from a life mapped out and golf course meetings, to a nomadic lifestyle centred around community. 

She discusses the impact of her new lifestyle on her mental health, her views on sports infrastructure, and we bond over shared tears over stolen bikes… in our thirties. 

Enjoy!

You can find more from Cheyenne on YouTube, Instagram, and X

103. George Cotterhill26 Feb 202601:06:43

In this episode I speak with photographer and director, George Cotterhill.

We explore the intersection of parenthood and entrepreneurship, discussing the challenges and rewards of balancing family life with running a creative business.

George shares his journey from quantity surveying to filmmaking, detailing the birth of his production company, Rhoda Pond Productions, and the evolution of his work in sports content.

He highlights the importance of emotional storytelling, building relationships in the industry, and the continuous learning process that comes with creative work and the significance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

Enjoy!

Takeaways

• Parenthood brings unique challenges to entrepreneurship.

  • Creative journeys often start from unexpected events.
  • Building relationships is key in the creative industry.
  • Emotional storytelling enhances video content.
  • Learning on the job is invaluable for skill development.
  • Transitioning to sports content can open new opportunities.
  • Balancing work and family requires boundaries.
  • Staying fit helps maintain mental clarity for work.
  • Social media can be both a tool and a distraction.
  • Documentary filmmaking offers a deeper connection to subjects.
102. Kelvyn Quagraine12 Feb 202600:52:52

Kelvin Quagraine is the Head of Brand at Art Of, the fan-led sports brand defining the culture of fan communities

He shares his journey from aspiring footballer to influential figure in the football community, discussing the impact of dual interests in football and drama on his identity.

We discuss the cultural significance of football, the evolution of fandom, and the importance of mental health and self-awareness. 

Kelvyn also highlights his work with  the Art Of brand, emphasising the need for creativity and reflection in both personal and professional life.

Enjoy! 

Takeaways

  • Kelvyn's journey into football began with a passion for the game and performance.
  • The duality of interests in football and drama shaped Kelvyn's identity.
  • Fluidity in interests can protect mental health and foster resilience.
  • Football is not just a sport; it's a cultural phenomenon that connects people.
  • Players are increasingly exploring interests beyond football, enriching their identities.
  • Art and fashion can serve as powerful expressions of football fandom.
  • Education in football can help combat social issues and empower youth.
  • Self-awareness and reflection are crucial for personal growth and creativity.
  • Injury can lead to new paths and opportunities for self-discovery.
  • Radical rest is essential for maintaining creativity and mental well-being.

Chapters

02:40

Journey into Football and Performance

07:43

The Impact of Dual Interests on Identity

09:56

Understanding Football as a Cultural Phenomenon

14:18

The Evolution of Football Fandom

18:08

Art of: Merging Football and Fashion

26:11

Involvement with Football Beyond Borders

31:34

The Role of Education in Football

34:17

Influences and Self-Awareness

40:04

Navigating Injury and Mental Health

41:54

Creativity and Reflection in Work

48:21

Exploring Psychedelics and Creativity

101. Alexis Guerreros28 Jan 202601:12:10

Alexis Guerreros is a comedian from Newark, New Jersey.

He shares his unique journey from corporate America to the world of stand-up, sports fandom, and content creation as co-founder of Soccer Cooligans

We discuss growing up in New Jersey, how that planted the seeds of his passion for the game and formed the skills that would go on to make him a success in both a corporate and stand-up environment. 

Alexis explains how his passions intersect, the importance in that, and the lessons learned along the way about authenticity, risk-taking, and building a vibrant community.

He also hates Elvis. Hates him. 

Enjoy!

Key Topics:
  • Alexis’ transition from corporate VP to comedian and content creator
  • The influence of football and sports culture on his comedy and media ventures
  • Building authentic, multi-dimensional personal brands
  • Navigating identity and validation in entertainment and sports
  • The importance of diversifying passions for personal fulfilment
  • Creating engaging content that blends humour with sports insights
  • The impact of family, heritage, and international experiences on branding
  • How embracing individuality and passion leads to unexpected success
Timestamps:

02:38 - Growing up in Newark and the multicultural sports culture
06:20 - The influence of childhood and immigrant communities on football fandom
11:05 - Building a media brand: Kooligans and content strategy
15:28 - Early moments of success and fan engagement at live matches
20:09 - Navigating identity in the corporate and entertainment worlds
26:15 - The importance of authenticity and finding your niche
32:48 - Diversifying passions: food, football, and media opportunities
37:22 - The evolution of Alexis’ goals and mindset for future growth
44:22 - How external validation shapes confidence and brand development
55:12 - The role of validation in entertainment vs. personal fulfilment
62:13 - Reflections on the World Cup and Alexis’ heritage
67:25 - The importance of adapting ambition and embracing new opportunities

Editor's Note | Back in January09 Dec 202500:00:18

Hi team,

The podcast is taking a break until January.

Until then, plenty to keep you occupied with 100 conversations in the back catalogue.

Thank you for the support this year and those previous.

See you on the other side.

JF

Bonus: Alexis James on Off-Field02 Dec 202501:13:07

Alexis James returns to discuss the process behind Off-Field, a bumper anthology of long form sports storytelling that explores hidden heroes, niche subcultures, and uncharted communities across the world.

Listeners can use NPLH10 at checkout to enjoy a 10% discount on all orders.

100. Sam Diss18 Nov 202501:14:46

Sam Diss is a writer and strategist from East London with a client list that'll make your eyes water – Arsenal, AC Milan and Barcelona blah blah blah.


He explores the balance between personal authenticity and industry demands, reflecting on the importance of collaboration and embracing your unique voice.


This is a candid conversation where Sam reflects on his journey of self-discovery within the creative industry, discussing the highs and lows of his career and how vulnerability and self-awareness can lead to profound insights and meaningful connections in the world of creativity.


And of course, there's Mundial.


Enjoy!

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99. Judah Negron04 Nov 202501:27:40

Judah Negron is a multi-threat creative, ministerial pastor and founder of North Dakotan football brand, Far Out FC.


He shares his journey as a creative, exploring interests in art, sports, and faith, discusses the importance of family in nurturing his individuality and emphasises the transformative power of his faith in Christ, which helped him rediscover joy in creative pursuits leading him to his very own ‘Field of Dreams.’


Judah highlights the unique challenges of building an equally unique brand in a “far out” place, showing us there should be no limits on creativity based on location

It’s a journey of clarity and dedication that took him from Minot, North Dakota to the World stage with Auckland City.


Enjoy!


Takeaways


  • Creative identity is multifaceted and can encompass various interests.
  • Family support plays a crucial role in nurturing creativity.
  • Faith can provide a strong foundation for personal identity and self-worth.
  • Struggles with identity can lead to a deeper understanding of oneself.
  • Rediscovering joy in creative pursuits is essential for fulfilment.
  • The concept of 'far out' can inspire individuals from less recognised places.
  • Pursuing mastery in various crafts can lead to personal growth.
  • Art and sports can coexist in a person's identity.
  • Creating opportunities for oneself is vital in a competitive landscape.
  • Authenticity in relationships is key to personal happiness. Judah launched Far Out with his brother Elisha, emphasising brotherhood in their creative journey.
  • His passion for Auckland City FC led to a life-changing experience at the FIFA Club World Cup.
  • The Far Out Summer Invitational was a grassroots soccer tournament that fostered community.
  • Judah's authenticity and love for soccer have opened doors to unique opportunities.
  • He faced challenges in organising the tournament but prioritised love for the game over profit.
  • The support from Adidas transformed the scale of the Far Out Summer Invitational.
  • Judah's journey highlights the importance of being true to oneself in pursuing passions.
  • He believes that being in a less conventional location can refine one's creative focus.
  • The design of the tournament cup was inspired by rustic elements, making it unique.
  • Judah's story encourages others to pursue their passions regardless of external validation. 


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98. Ben Pagel21 Oct 202501:22:25

Ben Pagel is the founder and award-winning Creative Director of Brooklyn-based Astral Studio.


He takes on a tour of his inspiring career path, from humble beginnings in a London souvenir shop to leading an international creative studio in the Big Apple.


His journey is a testament to seizing opportunities and embracing the unknown. And with new venture, Kickback Soccer Media, on the horizon, Ben continues to push boundaries with passion and authenticity.


Aiming to reshape the North American soccer narrative, Ben and his teammates are creating a platform built by the American soccer community for the American Soccer community.


All, most importantly, whilst having some fun. Trying to anyway.


Enjoy!

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97. Nicolas Polo07 Oct 202501:45:27

Nicolas Polo is a film photographer based in Washington DC.


Together we explore the multifaceted world of photography, discussing personal connections, the impact of film versus digital, and the emotional depth captured through the lens.


Nicolas shares his journey of becoming a photographer, the significance of cultural identity, and the balance between documenting moments and being present in them.


He reflects on his transition from a stable corporate job to pursuing his passion full-time, emphasising the importance of community engagement and teaching.


We also delve into the creative processes involved in photography, including the meditative aspects of darkroom work and the significance of storytelling.


Journalling, self-reflection, personal growth, we touch on all that too.


Enjoy!


Takeaways


  • Photography allows for deep personal connections.
  • Film photography offers a unique emotional depth.
  • Capturing family moments can evoke strong memories.
  • The journey into photography often starts unexpectedly.
  • Cultural identity plays a significant role in artistic expression.
  • The act of photographing can be a form of self-reflection.
  • Presence in the moment is crucial for meaningful photography.
  • Each photographer has a unique perspective shaped by their experiences.
  • The balance between documenting and living in the moment is challenging.
  • Artistic expression is about finding one's voice. Nicolas transitioned from a corporate job to full-time photography.
  • He emphasizes the importance of community engagement in his work.
  • Teaching photography has become a significant part of his career.
  • Darkroom photography offers a meditative and flow state experience.
  • Storytelling is a powerful tool in photography and other creative fields.
  • Journaling helps in self-reflection and personal growth.
  • Nicolas draws inspiration from various sources, including music and literature.
  • He believes in the importance of intention behind creative work.
  • The immigrant work ethic drives his determination and success.
  • Nicolas values the connections he makes through his photography.

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96. James Gamlin23 Sep 202501:17:22

James Gamlin is founder and editor of Escapismo, the magazine capturing the beauty and romance of the game.


He discusses the magazine's evolution, from a one-off Father’s Day gift to its most recent form of a love letter to Real Betis and the joy of Spanish football.


James shares the struggles of wearing ‘all the hats’ in a magazine's production journey and his learnings from them, as well as the dedication to self-improvement for the good of the publication.


A new contender for ‘nicest guy in showbiz’, James’ enthusiasm and love for the game will reinforce yours.


Enjoy!

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95. Laura Gates09 Sep 202501:36:11

Laura Gates is a freelance sport and events photographer based in the North West of England. Oh and an Evertonian!


We discuss her ongoing body of work around the club, the opportunities that have come from within it, and how it all started with an iPhone.


Laura talks of the value in women supporting women in a male-dominated space and the greater creative community in the Liverpool area.


We also run through her evolving career as a photographer, the importance of embracing new challenges and the ongoing relationship between her and her beloved Everton.


Enjoy!



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94. Dave Murray26 Aug 202500:57:46

Dave Murray is an English guitarist, best known as a member of the heavy metal band Iron Maiden. 


Wait, that’s not right. 


Dave Murray is an award-winning, Toronto-based illustrator with a client list including, Major League Baseball, The National Hockey League, and FIFA. 


He talks us through from the very beginning in a pulp and paper mill to becoming a renowned illustrator, as well as the intricacies that come with teaching the creatives of the future. 


We also cover his passion for sports, art, and the impact of AI on the creative industry and how he might just be the most inked man in the field.


Enjoy!



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93. Pablo Maurer12 Aug 202501:18:53

Pablo Maurer is a writer with a unique and encouraging back story: After failing high school, he became a mechanic before a career transition into writing during his 30’s. 


Some pivot! 


He discusses the therapeutic nature of solitude, the impact of his Spanish heritage on his love for the game, and the emotional complexities of working in sports journalism. 


He also reflects on childhood interests, the value of retaining curiosity and adventure in life, and offers advice for the aspiring writers out there. 


Enjoy!

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Editor's Note | Half-time Break | Back August04 Jun 202500:00:17

Hey team,


I'll be taking an extended break 'til August.


If you're new here there's plenty to keep you going across 92 episodes whilst I put the mic on ice, recharge the batteries, and butter up some more talent to talk about their work, feelings and sometimes football.


See you on the other side.


JF

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92. Brian Chorski03 Jun 202500:57:55

Brian Chorski is a Wisconsin-born, L.A-based photographer and film director.


Cutting his photography teeth on road trips with friends he experienced life, and the great outdoors, through a lens.


In his own words, his style and approach are a direct representation of his spirit - authentic, curious and colorful.


And it's that style that has attracted the likes of MLS, Puma, Ford and countless more to his work.


This one’s about being true to yourself and being ready when people notice.


Enjoy!

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91. Christine Cupo20 May 202501:05:32

Christine Cupo is a New York-based analyst, host and reporter.


AND maybe holder of the least likely background of any creative in the field; Finance!


Football was never far away, though – numbers on one screen, the game on another and when the pandemic hit, it was that passion, maybe obsession, which set her off on a path with CBS Sports.


But, what life gives, it often takes in turn and, though thriving in a career analysing the game, injury leaves her unable to play it. Christine’s vulnerability in sharing the emotional impact of that loss is something we can all relate to in some way.


Plenty of gold throughout from one of the wonderful personalities in the space.


Enjoy!

_______


Recoded 10 APR 25

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90. Tyler Dolph06 May 202500:58:24

Tyler Dolph is a photographer, videographer, and Head of Production at CLUBELEVEN, the community of creators telling the untold stories of North American soccer.


Tyler joined back in April, me hours before his next stint on the CLUBELEVEN bus tour to talk about career choices; freelance over 9 to 5, democratising the game and the importance of teamwork over individual glory – the latter a hint at Tyler’s inspiring self-awareness.


He could also be the nicest guy in showbiz.


Enjoy!

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89. RaShauna Hamilton22 Apr 202500:59:01

RaShauna Hamilton is Vice President of Fan Growth & Community at the Washington Spirit — and a woman who’s spent her career quietly shaping future fanbases across the NBA, NFL and NWSL, one meaningful connection at a time.


We talk about the power of voice — how RaShauna went from timid newcomer to confident leader, and how learning to share even the “bad” ideas can unlock a team’s creativity and collective impact.


She reflects on what she’d tell her younger self, how her kids have shaped her view of legacy, and why speaking up — even when it’s scary — might just spark the change we’re all waiting for.


This one’s about finding confidence, building community, and trusting that small actions can lead to big shifts.


Enjoy!

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88. Seb White08 Apr 202501:14:02

Seb White is a multi-faceted creative and co-founder of MUNDIAL; the magazine that both redefined football culture and reminded you why you loved the game.


He talks us through the evolution of the mag, from a passion to project with his mates to, checks notes, a full time gig with his mates. One that inspired a new wave of independent football media, not least this platform.


Through ‘giving it a go’ and unwavering authenticity Seb created a body of work that spoke to countless fans across the world (and annoyed a few too).


What's next is up for grabs. Whatever it is, he'll do with heart and, if the past 10 years are anything to go by, you'll know about it.


Enjoy!

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Editor's Note | Fixture Reduction (Temp)31 Mar 202500:00:45

The football podcast that isn't about football is clearing its congested fixture list and dropping to bi-weekly releases for a few months.


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87. Darian Jenkins25 Mar 202501:09:40

Darian Jenkins is a retired pro turned analyst for CBS and DAZN.


Darian talks us through her discovery of the game during recess kick abouts to National Championships with UCLA and the injury that would ultimately curtail her career in the NWSL.


Easy to dwell on what might have been. Difficult to find a new direction. Unless the universe shows you one.


Off pitch she now finds herself in a stronger position to push change, challenging the narrative attached to players of colour and bringing a fresh perspective of the game.


We also touch on the meditative power of walking, the art of manifestation and 90’s ankle weights, teeing us up nicely for a part 2 down the line.


Enjoy!

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86. Dakota Fox Graf18 Mar 202501:03:22

Dakota Fox Graf is a photographer with one of the less conventional routes into the industry, having swapped the front line of combat for the side lines of Major League Soccer.


With a big interest in health and fitness and little interest or involvement in the game beyond the odd kindergarten kick about and a few World Cup games on TV whilst serving in Afghanistan, the path he’s on could not have been on his radar.


But indifference towards the game evolved into infatuation when landing a performance coach internship at Columbus Crew.


Working with the Academy teams, he spotted an opportunity to document their games and, in a few short years, finds himself pitch side shooting the stars MLS.


Dakota shares his experiences in the military, evolving love for the game and the pride he feels as he again finds himself serving his country, this time as a Performance Coach with US Soccer’s youth teams.


With that full-time role, a burgeoning photography career and raising a young family, Dakota is a guy who thrives with a full plate.


Enjoying the podcast? Support it here.

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85. Tommie Battle III11 Mar 202501:10:48

Tommie Battle is an NYC-based self-taught and published Black photographer specialising in portrait, photojournalism, and sports photography.


In this episode he opens up on life as a kid in a military family, how the experiences that came with it shaped his life and how, along the way, Roberto Baggio planted a seed that would bloom into not only a passion for the game but a career in it.


The NYCFC photographer also discusses the importance of tuning into your younger self, practicing self-care, and checking those around you are doing the same.


There’s also a bit in there about his photography career that’s well worth a listen.


Enjoy.


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84. Drake Ramberg04 Mar 202500:56:26

Drake Ramberg needs little introduction, but I'll give him one anyway.


An Oregonian born and raised in the vicinity of Nike HQ, he would go on to spearhead the brand's drive into the football space, revolutionise kit design, and build a legacy over the next three decades.


Over to Drake.


Enjoy!

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83. Maya Stephen25 Feb 202500:51:32

Maya Stephen is the definition of a versatile creative with an appetite for change.


Born in Florida and made through her experiences in New England, California and now New York, Maya is a flowing tap of self-expression using football, fashion, poetry and photography as both a means to create and reinvent.


She also has a flagrant disregard for limits; those set by the self and imposed by others.


All in, the perfect example to follow for the young people of New York, where she is currently Director of Programs at America Scores, the organisation empowering youth through football and education.


There’s no telling how far Maya will go but right now she’s exactly where she’s meant to be. Making a change.


Enjoy!

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82. Dan King18 Feb 202501:01:19

A break from the norm to share the work of a creative from another landscape.


Dan King is not a football photographer. But he is aware of the game and the quality of his work needs to be seen so we’re golden!


His route into photography will be familiar to some and inspiring to others. Unfulfilled in his day job as a website designer he set some intentions for change – ditch the boring stuff and focus on what he loved. Cycling.


So, he bought a ticket for an event, borrowed a camera and the rest? Well that’s the good part.


Dan now lists Nike, Adidas, STRAVA (I know we’re all logging our hearts out on that) and Oakley among his client list as well as editorial credits the BBC and one of the most beautiful magazines around, Rouleur.


His infectiously bold attitude of saying ‘Yes’ to anything has seen him move into cinematography as well as establishing himself as a pre-eminent documentarian in the worlds of Running and Cycling.


Over to Dan.


Enjoy!

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81. David Furzer-Jones11 Feb 202501:01:56

David Furzer-Jones is co-Founder of Cult Kits, the destination for football fans to find their favourite shirt.


David discusses the brands evolution, from a side-grind blog to the extensive archive of iconic jerseys we see today, as well as his own journey running parallel to it.


We touch on nostalgia and its role as one of the pillars of the brands identity and how walking your own path, with intention, delivers fulfilment and sets and example – he wanted a job in football so went out and made one!


Plenty of gold in here once you wade through 4 minutes of tales from the front line of fatherhood and male pattern baldness.


Enjoy!

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80. Gabriel Nava04 Feb 202500:55:35

Gabriel Nava is a multi-faceted creative from Riverside, California.


Growing up playing the game and following Barcelona, it’s little surprise his creative talents have found a home in the game, with both his photographic and graphic design skillset positioning him as a double threat in the landscape.


Gabe walks us through his early days in the game, why following the creative path is important to him and what he’s prepared to do to stay on it.


Oh, and how he’s bankrupting himself on T90 archive pieces and car-tow fines.


Over to Gabe.


Enjoy!

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Editor's Note | Next Fixture 4th February06 Jan 202500:00:15

I’m taking a short break to spend time with my boys and will be back on Tuesday, 4 February, with more conversations from the legends shaping the football landscape. Until then, there’s plenty to catch up on—dive in and enjoy!


JF

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79. Matthew Stith24 Dec 202401:01:13

US photographer Matthew Stith is a creative shunning the concept of boundaries. 


A broken foot in college put his goalkeeping gloves on ice, guiding his hands away from the ball and towards a camera.


When opportunity knocked—through a friend in MLS—Matthew seized it, setting off on a path that’s more about discovery than destination. 


For him, photography is just one medium to explore the world, with football acting as the lens that brings it into focus.


Through the Football Case Study, Matthew connects with people across the globe, celebrating the game while providing a stage for other creatives to do the same. It’s more than a project; it’s a love letter to football, its culture, and its power to inspire.


Enjoy!

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78. Lucas Mendes10 Dec 202400:52:25

Lucas Mendes is what you would call a multi-faceted talent in the football landscape — professional player, club owner, and community builder decorating a CV belying his 26 years.


In this episode, we explore his journey, from his roots in the D.C. United Academy system to how he’s using Virginia Dream FC not just as a football club giving a platform to players, but a creative house giving a collaborative vehicle to artists, building a club culture that inspires both on and off the field.


Enjoy!



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77. Richard Gordon03 Dec 202400:58:31

Richard Gordon a photographer/director and Co-Founder of Forty One Magazine and its football-focussed creative studio.


Rich shares how the '94 and '98 world cups opened his heart to the game, his gateway into photography and when these two passions finally caught up with each other, giving rise to a creative career spanning over a decade.


Rich's career is built on both passion and a drive to push himself as a creative whilst wedging the door open to those following behind.


A storyteller at heart, through Forty One, he not only aims to share authentic stories from the North American landscape, but open the game to those who might not even know they love it yet!


Enjoy!



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76. Jenny Simmons26 Nov 202400:50:53

Jenny Simmons’ story is one of passion, purpose, and paving the way for meaningful change.


Whether it's pursuing progress or practicing the transformative power of manifesting, following her vision and creating impact has always been the common thread.


We discuss her journey from Lancaster to playing college football in the U.S, before landing at Nike where her time on the Jordan brand steered her towards mindset coaching and, ultimately, where we find her today, beginning a new chapter with MANON – a consultancy focused on empowering black and brown women in the football space. 


Enjoy the episode? Grab me a coffee and fuel me for the next one.

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75. Jake Nolan19 Nov 202400:57:04

Jake Nolan is the Co-Founder of Sefton Park Rangers and Creative Agency, All Our Friends.


He shares the club's evolution, from its founding to the meaningful impact it has on both the local area and Jake himself and how his experiences with the club opened the doors to creative projects within Liverpool and beyond.


We also explore the delicate balancing act of fatherhood and work, why pursuing a feeling trumps pursuing a pay check and the rewards that come with risks.


Enjoy!


__


Send caffeine.

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74. Alexis James12 Nov 202401:25:32

Alexis James is a freelance writer, journalist, and podcaster, focussing on human stories from the fringes of sport and society.


Used to asking the questions for countless pieces over a two-decade career, including several pieces for NPLH Magazine, he switches seats to answer a few.


From placements in local news as a teen to BBC features and much in between, Alexis shares some of the realities of a professional freelance career and the role 'bread and butter' writing plays in long-form creative pursuits such as his book Unsung, an anthology shining a spotlight on the men and women in the shadows of sport and Off-Field, a monthly newsletter featuring tales from the fringes of sport.


It hasn't always been easy, if ever, but his chosen path has scratched the dual itch of a career in journalism and a desire to connect with and share people's stories.


Enjoy!



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Editor's note | Next Fixture 12 Nov 202427 Sep 202400:00:25

The football podcast that isn't about football will be back on Tuesday 12 November, 2024. I'm taking a little break to spend some time with my new family and get the boys on some drills and ready for West Ham's academy.


In the meantime, there's plenty of gold in this resource we've built, most recently with SEASON ZINE founder, Felicia Pennant.


See you on the other side.


JF

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73. Felicia Pennant16 Sep 202401:03:20

Felicia Pennant is, in my friend Madison's words, the real deal. After speaking with her for an hour, I'm inclined to agree.


A self-confessed book worm as a kid, she shares her journey from hiding out in the library to leading the line with the seminal football and fashion platform SEASON zine.


Felicia highlights the importance of adding value through her work whilst providing a platform for others to share theirs, how knowledge and confidence go hand-in-hand and why the presence of ego in a creative isn't such a bad thing.


All that and more whilst sipping on a Diet Coke!



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72. Beech Street FC10 Sep 202401:00:23

A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. In New Hampshire, a movement to impact a thousand lives began with a simple Instagram post


Despite the lush green forests and quaint towns of the Granite State, the football scene is pretty barren. Well, it was until Chris Pinkham and Yusufu Juma set out to change that in the form of Beech Street FC.


Through a love for their community and a desire for change, they provided a platform unlike anything the state had seen, saving good players from falling through the system's cracks and giving them a sense of purpose and belonging in the process.


It started with football but it's already so much more than that, its impact and legacy setting a standard for all those that follow.


Enjoy!

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71. Mike Geddes03 Sep 202400:52:10

** Please excuse audio imperfections **


Mike Geddes has worn many hats throughout a varied career, from his beginnings as a BBC journalist to co-founding football club Oakland Roots and lots more in between.


But beyond the titles, his focus lies on the impact he can make.


His journey is a blend of passion and purpose, whilst searching for balance between the demands of his professional life with the importance of family.


Mike's story is one of intentionality, driven by the belief that the work we do, whether on a global or local scale, should matter.


Enjoy!

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70. Cody McCullough27 Aug 202401:22:36

Cody McCullough is a multi-faceted creative with a client list to make your eyes water – EA Sports, MLS, Adidas, Venezia, it goes on... and on. Incredible to think it all began with a basic camera and a speculative message to the SoccerBible socials!


He discusses his 'say yes now, figure it out later' approach, his experiences of the creative industry within the game, how they've impacted his enjoyment of it and the feelings this evokes, offering a view on where it all goes from here and what that looks like for him.


Pre-dating the career, traditional North American sports played a pivotal role in his youth before Danny Dyer's Football Factory exposed him to a world he instantly knew he wanted to live in – one that's ultimately about human connection and impacting others.


By his own admission, the landscape isn't perfect, but he loves it and he's in it for the long haul.


Enjoy!

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69. Eric Beard20 Aug 202401:06:45

Eric Beard is, on paper, a Creative Director and the final co-Founder on my Where is Football, bingo card.


Off paper, he's a creative in the purest sense of the word, prioritising collaboration and connection which is not only at the root of the Where is Football platform, but his creative output across the board.


Whether working for global brands, such as EA or Nike, collaborating on freelance projects or simply just creating, his approach is consistent - finding the fun in it.


Eric shares how the practice of gratitude informs his view on both work and life and stresses the importance of creating space to exist for yourself before clocking in for the various roles we play in our lives.


Enjoy!

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68. Zito Madu13 Aug 202401:10:56

Zito Madu is a man very much marching to the beat of his own drum. 


Growing up in Nigeria, football played a prominent role in his life and nothing changed when moving to the US in 1998; A successful college career with the University of Detroit preceded signing for USL’s Detroit City before heading to Turkey’s second division.  


It’s here it all gets interesting. 


Wanting to learn about himself outside of the game, he walked away from it – in a professional capacity – to pursue a path of creativity and exploration of the self.


With writing his vehicle of choice, Zito has driven a road of unknowns since, embracing opportunities when he spots them and never fearing a pivot when the answer is ‘No’ to the question ‘Does this feel right?’


As he says, ultimately it’s about how you feel. What is the consequence of ignoring that? 


Enjoy!





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67. EL Johnson06 Aug 202401:00:21

EL Johnson is a multi-disciplined creative with a co-founders list as long as your arm: the 2 Cents FC podcast, Forty One Magazine and it's football-focussed creative studio and MLS Next Pro's The Town FC all wear his fingerprints.


A self-taught creative with an unorthodox route into the football space, EL discusses the entrepreneurial inspirations behind his stable pursuits, the challenges of juggling ambition and workload with parenthood and the importance of honouring his younger self throughout it all.


Enjoy!

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66. Ian & Sarah Harkes 30 Jul 202401:17:03

Ian Harkes is a professional footballer currently playing for New England Revolution in MLS.


Sarah Teegarden-Harkes enjoyed her own professional playing career with stints in the US, Sweden, France and Scotland before heading down a new path in 2022 with non-profit Boston Scores.


Sharing experiences of their respective professional landscapes, they walk through the realities of maintaining a relationship whilst living apart, Sarah's transition away from the game and how their individual and combined experiences led to the formation of Simply Sublime.


Through the platform, they're not only sharing their own stories but opening the door for others to do the same and building a community along the way.


Over to Ian and Sarah...

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