On Epsisode 19, we talk about ‘participation trophies.’ Are they good? Bad? Does it matter?

On Episode 18, we welcome special guest Gary Vaynerchuk to talk about parenting youth soccer players — and really, parenting in general. If you’re not familiar with Gary, he’s not a soccer guy; he’s an entrepreneur, best-selling author, sought after speaker and the standard when it comes to social media and internet marketing. You can read more about him here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garyvaynerchuk/. Before listening, be warned that Gary is a passionate and fiery guy who uses a bit more colorful language than you’re used to hearing on Soccer Unplugged.

On Episode 17, we discuss Mark’s recent trip to London, a listener question about how to make your child more aggressive on the soccer field, the USWNT’s lawsuit against US Soccer, VAR and racism on social media.

On Episode 16, we welcome Jason Webb, co-founder of Soccer Shots — the country’s leading intro-to-soccer program for kids 2 to 8 years old. Jason provides some background about Soccer Shots and as well as a few dos and don’ts for parents of young soccer players.

On Episode 15, we welcome listener Charles Miller, father of two, to discuss balancing the athletic success of one child with the needs and interests of his or her siblings.

On Episode 14, Mark opens up about Christian’s emotional farewell to Borussia Dortmund and transition to Chelsea Football Club. 

Episode 13 is an interview Mark did on Keith Tozer’s World of Fustal podcast. Thanks to Keith for having Mark on and allowing us to release the entirety of the episode on our platforms.

On Episode 12, we welcome 11-year pro and current goalkeeper coach of Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC Hunter Gilstrap to talk about youth goalkeeping, college recruitment specific to goalkeepers and goalkeeping trends at the highest levels of the modern game.

On this episode, Mark On this episode, Mark talks about sportsmanship — specifically, the Galatasaray youth player who intentionally missed a PK. He asks listeners, “how many youth coaches would encourage their players to do the same?”