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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 creatorThe influence of football and sports culture on his comedy and media venturesBuilding authentic, multi-dimensional personal brandsNavigating identity and validation in entertainment and sportsThe importance of diversifying passions for personal fulfilmentCreating engaging content that blends humour with sports insightsThe impact of family, heritage, and international experiences on brandingHow embracing individuality and passion leads to unexpected successTimestamps:02:38 - Growing up in Newark and the multicultural sports culture06:20 - The influence of childhood and immigrant communities on football fandom11:05 - Building a media brand: Kooligans and content strategy15:28 - Early moments of success and fan engagement at live matches20:09 - Navigating identity in the corporate and entertainment worlds26:15 - The importance of authenticity and finding your niche32:48 - Diversifying passions: food, football, and media opportunities37:22 - The evolution of Alexis’ goals and mindset for future growth44:22 - How external validation shapes confidence and brand development55:12 - The role of validation in entertainment vs. personal fulfilment62:13 - Reflections on the World Cup and Alexis’ heritage67:25 - The importance of adapting ambition and embracing new opportunities

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

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.

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! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.