The Soccer Podcast USA with Christina Unkel
The Soccer Podcast USA with Christina Unkel
Podcast Description
The Soccer Podcast USA, is a new weekly podcast hosted by Christina Unkel—CBS Sports commentator, former FIFA referee, and lifelong advocate for the game—our podcast explores the dynamic landscape of soccer in the United States, focusing on the stories, people, and ideas driving the sport forward.Our mission is to provide a platform that reflects the breadth and depth of soccer in the U.S., from the growth of the men’s and women’s games at all levels to the vital role of grassroots soccer. By spotlighting players, coaches, executives, advocates, and community leaders, we aim to celebrate the contributions of those shaping soccer both on and off the field.At a pivotal moment for the sport—with the international success of the USWNT, the upcoming 2026 Men’s World Cup, and the continued expansion of MLS and NWSL—we believe The Soccer Podcast USA can help amplify the narratives shaping the future of soccer in this country. Our goal is to foster an inclusive and balanced dialogue, celebrating the progress of the game while addressing its challenges and opportunities.📺 Watch us on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@TheSoccerPodcastUSA Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast emphasizes various topics including the growth of women’s soccer, the dynamics of the U.S. men’s and women’s national teams, and grassroots development. Specific episodes cover events like the SheBelieves Cup, analyze the impact of significant figures in soccer such as Emma Hayes, and discuss changes in the financial landscape with mentions of Netflix's involvement in the Women’s World Cups.
The Soccer Podcast USA, is a weekly conversation hosted by Christina Unkel—a former FIFA referee and CBS and ITV Sports rules analyst hailed by The New York Times and The Guardian as a standout voice during the 2024 European Mens’ Championships. She brings a rare mix of legal insight, officiating expertise, and executive leadership as President and General Manager of the Tampa Bay Sun FC.
Each week, Christina is joined by Lori Lindsey, former U.S. Women’s National Team midfielder and one of the most respected voices in American soccer broadcasting. A 14-year pro and Olympic gold medalist, Lori has played in all three of the U.S.’s top women’s leagues and now serves as lead analyst for the NWSL on Prime Video and MLS Season Pass, with credits across FOX, CBS, NBC, and ESPN.
Together, Christina and Lori explore the week’s biggest stories across the U.S. soccer landscape—from tactics and transfers to leadership and equity—with clarity, humor, and an eye on what’s next.
At a defining moment for the sport—with the rise of the NWSL, the lead-up to the 2026 World Cup, and the reshaping of grassroots and pro soccer alike—The Soccer Podcast USA offers informed, fearless conversation with two of the most experienced minds in the game.
Big names. Bold takes. The future of American soccer.
Oh—and did we mention the surprise guests?
📺 Watch us on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@TheSoccerPodcastUSA
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
VAR takes center stage this week—Christina and Lori break down a botched penalty call and debate whether American VAR will ever get it right (hint: not soon). Plus, is it V.A.R. or “var”? Let the record show: pronunciation matters.
Then surprise guest Jimmy Conrad—who proudly dubs himself Conradinho in honor of his inner Brazilian box-to-box midfielder—joins the pod to explain why he’s pursuing a UEFA coaching license instead of navigating U.S. Soccer’s bureaucratic maze. The CBS analyst and Call It What You Want host doesn’t hold back on the red tape, and missed chances for ex-players. He also examines what’s gone so wrong with LA Galaxy.
Also: Christina’s team makes USL W history, but not the good kind—she walks us through the first red card and the ethical headache it left behind.
⏱️ Time-Coded Episode Guide:
00:00 — VAR Chaos & “The Touch”
Lori and Christina debate a rescinded PK in Gotham-Chicago—and why balance can backfire.
03:30 — Don’t Say VAR or PKs 🙅♀️
Christina’s pronunciation PTSD and secret referee societies.
07:05 — Why VAR’s Not Working in the U.S.
Christina explains the delays, decisions—and why it’ll take 5–10 years to fix.
14:13 — Red Cards & Real Consequences 🚨
Christina on a player on her team receiving the USL W’s first-ever red card—and her ethical dilemma over an appeal.
17:35 — Surprise Guest Call-Up: Conradinho 🎙️
Surprise guest Jimmy Conrad joins the show. He explains why he calls himself “Conradinho”—and how a center back can dream of being a Brazilian midfielder..
22:13 — Ditching U.S. Soccer’s Coaching License
Jimmy reveals why he chose UEFA over USSF—and how ex-players are boxed out.
38:32 — Can the Galaxy Be Saved? 🌌
Jimmy puts on his coach’s cap: good soccer decisions > panic.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Disclaimer
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