Don't Know Much About Football

In this engaging conversation, Luke shares his journey into football fandom, emphasizing the importance of community and inclusivity, particularly within the LGBTQ+ space. The discussion explores various stadium experiences, the impact of international matches and the Olympics, and the evolving landscape of football fandom in America. Luke reflects on the challenges faced by MLS in building loyalty among fans and the need for clubs to embrace their communities more openly. The conversation concludes with thoughts on the future of football and the role of diverse voices in shaping the sport.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction00:15 Exploring Football Fandom and Community08:11 Experiences at Various Stadiums13:32 Emotional Connections to National Anthems20:33 Podcasting Journey and Community Building28:05 Experiencing International Matches31:37 The Joy of Local Football35:30 Navigating Fan Dynamics in Relationships38:40 Ranking Stadium Experiences42:12 The Future of Fandom in America

In this episode, Den Jones shares his unique journey through football fandom, from his roots in Scotland to his experiences in the US. He discusses the intense rivalries between Scottish teams, particularly Rangers and Celtic, and reflects on the cultural differences in football fandom between Scotland and America. Den also explores the evolution of soccer in the US, the challenges it faces, and the potential for growth as the sport gains popularity. The conversation touches on the emotional connections fans have with their teams and the future of soccer in America, especially with the upcoming World Cup.00:00 Den's Football Journey Begins09:19 Navigating Rivalries: Rangers vs Celtic19:15 Football in America: A New Perspective26:15 The Future of Soccer in the US37:21 The Road Ahead for American SoccerIbrox Stadium by Thomas Nugent, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commonsgoonerabroad, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia CommonsCeltic Football Club Ticket Office by Leslie Barrie, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia CommonsGeni, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

In this episode, the hosts discuss Scotland's qualification for the World Cup, reflecting on the emotional journey of fans and players alike. They share personal experiences of watching the match, the expectations for traveling Scottish fans, and the potential performance of the team in the upcoming tournament. The conversation also touches on the comparison between Scotland and the US Men's National Team, the challenges of a small population in producing a competitive squad, and the excitement surrounding the Tartan Army's arrival in America.TakeawaysScotland's last World Cup appearance was in 1998. The anticipation heightened the emotional experience of watching the match.Traveling Scots are known for their energy and enthusiasm.Scotland's squad has experienced players from top clubs.The small population of Scotland makes qualification impressive.Expectations for Scotland in the World Cup are cautiously optimistic.The Tartan Army is expected to bring a festive atmosphere.Comparisons between Scotland and the US Men's National Team highlight differences in experience.The importance of having a stable management team for success.The excitement of the World Cup being hosted in the US adds to the anticipation. Outline00:00 Scotland's World Cup Journey03:12 Emotional Roller Coaster of the Match06:07 The Tartan Army: Expectations and Experiences09:08 Scotland's Squad and Performance Insights11:55 Comparing Scotland and the US Men's National Team14:55 Scotland's Population and Talent Pool17:54 Anticipating the World Cup Draw20:52 Celebrating the Tartan Army's Arrival in America

International Break Round Table: Multi-Club Check-inIn this episode of Don't Know Much About Football, the hosts are joined by a gaggle of past guests for a lively round table discussion on the current football season. Abhi (Brentford), Adam (ManU), Christopher (Spurs), Mike (Fulham), and Paul (Leeds), join Ian and Sarah (both Liverpool fans) - with Karlo chipping in. We discuss Sunderland's amazing run as well as the impact top of table clubs Arsenal and City are having on the rest. The discussion touches on the dramatic changes in the season over the past six weeks, key defining moments for each club, and expectations for the remainder of the year. Guests provide predictions, highlight standout players and moments, and discuss managerial performances. The episode wraps up with thoughts on necessary January transfers and future outlooks for each team.00:00 Lightning Round Intros03:40 Current Season Overview04:08 Impact of Arsenal and City on the Table06:00 Club-Specific Updates14:39 Managerial Performance Discussion26:26 January Transfer Wishlist27:36 Goalkeeper Woes and Hopes30:23 Winter Transfer Strategies38:21 Sunderland's Surprising Form42:35 Season Predictions and Hopes

Exploring Leeds United's Rich History and Present with PaulIn this engaging episode of 'Don't Know Much About Football,' hosts Carla Marcelo, Sarah Hamilton, and Ian Storer delve into the history, culture, and current state of Leeds United with guest Paul. The discussion covers the club's prestigious past, including its heyday in the 70s under Don Revy, notable players, and the passionate fan base. Paul shares his personal journey from Yorkshire to Kansas City, his love for Leeds, and his insights into the club's performance in the Premier League 2025/26 season. The episode also explores the cultural aspects of being a Leeds fan, from iconic kits and songs to the atmosphere at matches and local foods. Tune in for a deep dive into football history and contemporary insights from a dedicated Leeds United supporter.00:00 Paul's Background and Journey to the US05:33 Leeds United's Cultural Impact and Rivalries14:38 Leeds Historical Highlights17:59 Current State of Leeds United21:49 Leeds Traditions and Fan Culture29:26 Leeds United's Branding31:38 Stadium and Training Ground34:44 Football Culture in Kansas City43:18 Leeds United's Current Season and Squad49:40 Upcoming Matches and Ticket Challenges54:26 Conclusion

JP - a Chicago lad finds his way to Man City: Standing By City From the South Side of ChicagoIn this episode of Don't Know Much About Football, our hosts engage in conversation with Manchester City fan JP from the South Side of Chicago. JP shares his journey of becoming a City fan during the '90s and explains how being a Chicago native influenced his choice, drawing comparisons between City and the Chicago White Sox. The discussion delves into his early influences, including playing FIFA video games and enjoying Manchester City's underdog status during United’s ascendancy. They also discuss the impact of Pep Guardiola’s long tenure and speculate on the future post-Pep era. Further, the conversation touches on the pervasive issue of gambling in football, its potential impacts, and the sustainment of values within the sport. The episode wraps up with exciting prospects of upcoming matches and camaraderie among friends despite football rivalries.00:00 JP's Journey to Becoming a Manchester City Fan08:16 Comparing Manchester City to American Sports Teams15:36 Current Manchester City Squad and Key Players18:47 The Future of Manchester City Post-Pep Guardiola23:08 Manchester City's Current Form26:38 Gambling in Sports: A Growing Concern41:53 Nation State Money in Football45:10 Concluding Thoughts and Predictions