The SoccerBible Podcast: Recent Episodes
SoccerBible
The SoccerBible Podcast brings an unfiltered conversation to the fore that weaves football through world's both on and off the pitch. Hosted by creatives Keane Pearce Shaw and Pete Martin, with each guest we explore their experiences through football and how their interests away from the game have flourished. A casual check in with some of the biggest names on the planet, these conversations are about showing character and personality while highlighting the human nature of football's finest.
While the Moroccan men's National Team have taken the stage by storm at The 2022 FIFA World Cup, the women's side had set the bar last summer having reached the final of the African Cup of Nations. A star of the Moroccan Women's National Team is Spurs forward Rosella Ayane. It was her penalty that secured them a spot at the final of AFCON and in getting a first hand take on the experience, we go through the journey and step into her shoes as she tells us what it's like to score in the final of a major international tournament. A supreme human being, it's an episode to consume and enjoy. Pure gold.
One of the finest player to have carved his own route, Serge Gnabry is a man of supreme style but moreover a real sense of who he is. With just 15 minutes of his time, we get a glimpse of a real G. Swiftly taking the conversation from Arsenal to Bayern to the World Cup, there's no getting away from how his style flourishes both on and off the pitch. Rooting for him on the eve of a major tournament, dig on in.
In every sense, Alan Shearer is a great of the game. A great for all eras and an elite member of the Premier League hall of fame. Celebrating 30 years since the inception of the league and waltzing down memory lane, we run through the moments that stand out for him. From humble beginnings to breaking records, there's few who have given the game, and in turn us, the audience, so many experiences. What a man. Arise, Sir Alan.
One of the greatest icons to have carved a path in football, Jose Mourinho is everything incredible about football. A compassionate man with the ability to own every situation, he has aura. Sitting down with him, face to face at the AS Roma training ground, we speak open and honestly about life, legends we've lost and the feeling of being in another cup final. A beautiful side to a man that is rarely seen, we fall in love with him all over again...
An Olympian with a pure love for football, we go back to the roots with Manchester City and Scotland international Caroline Weir. A strong voice, a leader and an immensely decorated elite athlete, her candidness is a refreshing reminder of what makes players like her, so very unique. From school football parties to playing at the very top of the game, tuck in.
An enviable all rounder of creative richness, Jordan Stephens puts everything into what he does. From music to fashion to art to football - his existence is beautifully all encompassing. A Gooner with so much to give, he's the latest to kick back on the SoccerBible podcast. Talking a good game and how it has woven through football, it's an enlightening instalment of good.
Smashing heights and creating a name for himself, Dom Solanke is a player so well versed in all that football can offer. From playing abroad, to being that 'wonderkid', to playing for Liverpool, Chelsea and now Bournemouth. On a quest back to the top flight, we talk about the rise, the journey and all those learning curves in between. A fascinating insights into the mind of a truly talented individual. All that and a tale about Aaron Ramsdale dressed up as a Dinosaur...
Having grafted and crafted from the States, to Germany, back to America and now standing strong at Manchester City, goalkeeper Zack Steffen is a man most beautifully on a mission. As well as being the USMNT no. 1, he's cemented himself as part of Pep's plans, having recently been awarded a fresh, long-term contract. Along side that, his work in setting up 'Voyce Now' is unquestionably great, in the truest sense. Looking to give back and make a difference to the lives of the next generation, he's also launched a clothing collection which will specifically raise funds for the organisation. A top person who is proving elite at all he does, dive on in.
Having made his name as a supreme talent in the photography world, the work of Mel D Cole is nothing short of seminal. Weaving his hand from music into football, it’s fresh from shooting Ronaldinho and Messi that we caught up with him. A refreshing opportunity for three creatives to delve through a unique angle of the game, enjoy the ride.
Soaking up every experience football can offer, William Troost-Ekong is an inspired character we can all take note from. Captaining Nigeria, his life, in many respects has gone beautifully full-circle. A fascinating story that starts in The Netherlands, journeys into England and then adventures across the planet, in search of an elite dream, it's now with Watford, in the Premier League where he plys his trade. A player who glows with maturity, style and substance, is looking to give back. An inspired chat with a real gem. Dive in.
Blossoms are a band that so beautifully represent a community, football could learn a lot from the way they connect with their audience. The fan / band divide is simply not a thing. Exploring a very deep rooted football connection we chat to Tom and Joe from the band about the ride through football, music has given them. From launching Man City kits to getting a Beer off Becks, they've experienced the game from a unique and wonderful angle. Damn good, northern souls.
This man has hit heights on a ridiculous scale and brought positive noise to every occasion. Chris Wood, AKA Woody, is the drummer of Bastille. A powerhouse of his own making as well as passionate Plymouth Argyle fan, we chat through the earliest memories of supporting his club through to the unique situations as well as the success he and his band have found themselves in. Broken records, smashed charts the globe all over and a new album to boot - still that love for The Pilgrims remains. Big up the man.
Having just won a 'Best Group' at the Brit Awards, Wolf Alice bassist Theo Ellis is the latest talent to chat through his football love story on the SoccerBible podcast. A proud Arsenal fan and esteemed musician, we go the distance in discussing his connection to the game and where it started, through to the crossover into music and the success he's achieved since joining the band, ten years ago. A global audience and critical acclaim, his passion for Arsenal remains unchanged. Powerhouse.
One of the greatest footballers of all time. That's Bryan Robson. Having broken transfer records on course for the very top, the man is someone who has created such an almighty legacy. A star at Manchester United, a hero at West Brom and Middlesbrough, and an icon to so many, it's no surprise the likes of David Beckham called him his idol. Going the distance and sharing stories from academy coming of age moments, the weird and wonderful advertising campaigns and a career sprinkled with so much start dust, he lets us in on his life, leaving nothing off the table. A true humble hero.
A degree from one of the finest Universities on the planet and now playing for a powerhouse of a football club. Catarina Macario is a grafter in every sense. Her rise has been monumental. Eyes on her as one of the most talented players on the planet, it's with a humble stride that she is embracing challenge after challenge. Exciting and energetic while considered and creative, we discuss how she's embraced each element on the way. From leaving Brazil in search of a career in the game to meeting, nay, smashing the ambitions of all around her...what a player. A pleasure to have the UWNT and Lyon player in the hot seat.
Speaking candidly about life after football, a journey into media and those very real surroundings in which it all started, Jermaine Jenas is the latest leader to join us on the SoccerBible podcast. Jermaine's story is fascinating. He paints a pure picture and a love for the game we all share and his feeling of going from local lad to local icon is one of humble proportions. We cover went on as he moved from Nottingham Forest to Newcastle and how life has changed over time. From his documentaries to future endeavours it's an open and honest discussion with someone making the very most out of every opportunity and levelling up every single time.
A man of his own making, Danny Williams has taken his own route through football, experiencing all it has to offer in the purest sense. Having taken a step outside of the game, he has created a brand in Beautiful Struggles that is breaking waves. Inspired, innovative and pioneering in a way he knows best. Respect to the man who is changing the game, even after he's playing on the pitch.
A man who has taken every opportunity by storm and smashed it to pieces, Tom Grennan is the latest guest on The SoccerBible Podcast. A man who has quite literally billions of plays to his name, his journey into music was preceded by football. Part of the Luton Town academy as a youth, his passion for the game is still burning and having shone as part of the SoccerAid set up, he's certified himself as a talent both on and off the pitch.
An illustrious International with England and club career with Manchester United, few people have had an impact on football's contemporary scene in the way Rio Ferdinand has. A true trailblazer and a genuine record breaker, we speak to this innovator about what it is like to go away on International duty, what goes on while you're there and the legacy those stages leave on a players life. Offering up an insight on his thoughts on England's chances, the characters at Euro 2020 and what his future aspirations look like.
A valiant defender who has risen as one of the greatest on the planet, Millie Bright is picking up accolades left, right and centre. Searching for a quadruple having just won the Women's Super League with Chelsea, the sights are now set on European supremacy with the Champions League final looming. We discuss the journey, her unique outlook and humble approach whilst also discussing mental strength and outlook. We also touch on the Olympic dream, her aspirations away from football and the energy she has to use her profile for good.
An icon on so many levels, Matthew McConaughey is a king of his own kind. An empowering thinker and one of Hollywood's greatest talents, his approach has revolutionised film. Now officially part of the ownership group of MLS side Austin FC, he's our latest guest on The Dial Up as we discuss his love for football, the ethos of Austin as a city and why it is so ripe for football. On the eve of the club's inaugural season, he explains the long term vision and why getting involved is a decision based on a legacy he wants to create. Pure charisma and a genuine appreciation for the sport, this one was special - We're Verde all over.
Tom Davies is the man. A player who has grafted and grown while rising through the ranks of his boyhood club, he is the beautiful epitome of a cultured generation. Hungry to learn and humble when shining, the Everton starlet has found his groove and in letting us into his Liverpool-based back garden, albeit virtually, we get an insight into the way his mind works. An out and out hero, it's another conversation that just keeps giving. Coffee beans and all.
‘The Dial Up’ is back with a bang for season two, and starting 2021 off we sat down with none other than Paul Pogba for an informal yet candid chat, in which we got a rare insight into the person behind the character, learning more about what makes the World Cup winner tick.
Our series in which elite players and footballing personalities from all over the world get to just relax and speak free from the spotlight – is back for a second season, and it kicks off with one of the biggest characters in the game, with Paul Pogba on the other end of the line.
From his explosive impact at Juventus to his monster move to Manchester United, with a little bit of signature edition style and Pog-Boom added in for good measure, the larger-than-life Paul Pogba has ever been the showman, and his career to date has certainly reflected that. But that’s what we all see. In a rare glimpse-behind-the-curtain, we had a down-to-earth and intimate conversation with the world cup winner, getting his take on living life, being yourself, the importance of positivity, and using his influence to help people.
There’s definitely more to Paul Pogba than meets the eye, as you’ll find out in this episode, which is available to listen to in full now, along with the whole of season one. Dive in.
Having found football at a young age, Weston McKennie spent years in both Germany and the USA before breaking into the MLS. Soon scouted and brought to Europe, his story is of rise after rise. Now a man playing alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, scoring worldie's at the Camp Nou and becoming a Juventus regular, his called from Andrea Pirlo will live long in the memory. Getting his story and his insight from his mouth, it's a fascinating road he's on and there's no question, the foot ain't coming off the gas.
Taking things to the very top, Frank Lampard gives us a personal look at that transition from poster-boy player to Premier League Head Coach at Chelsea. Talking about those final years as a player, what it was like to go back to school all over again by joining Man City and then the exploration in the States. A man who has achieved a remarkable amount, we hear directly from a great in the most personal way. Seriously, Frank. King of the game.
The "journey" is a word thrown around frequently in this game however few have done it like Jack Harrison. An adventurer who step aside from Manchester United in search of education and a pathway in the United States. Picked up by NYCFC and playing alongside the likes of Pirlo and Lampard, he's now made his way into the Premier League with Leeds. Just what the hell must that road be like? He tells us, open and honestly. Seriously, what a ride.
Sam Kerr has helped move The Matilda's into a whole new level of appreciation in football. An energetic world beater, having bounced from America to Australia without having a break, season after season, her move to Chelsea has now brought a new challenge. Discussing the move, through a pandemic, her outlook on the game, her appreciation for style and how we can address the balance, this episode has it all. Real talk with one of the best on the scene.
On the surface, with Lucy Bronze, you see so much success. One of the most decorated players in the game and one that England can be truly proud of, her journey however, has not been smooth. Giving us the full story and the bigger picture - being told she wouldn't have much time in the game and how she has defied and expectations. This is a role model like no other and this is a story that needs to be heard. Reaching levels that are beyond extraordinary, Lucy Bronze is pure, out and out gold.
Title fresh and loving life in Liverpool, Virgil Van Dijk talks about the night they were crowned Champions and the celebrations that ensued. A universally supported superstar and one of the greatest defenders on the planet, his ability has not added strength to a ever rising Liverpool side but the silverware too has been sublime. An insight into his world, we get to know just that little bit. more about what makes this human being such a stand out guy.
The man who needs no introduction. A true revolutionary, an unquestioned pioneer. Turning attentions towards the FA Cup in this instalment, the incredible Ian Wright gives us an emotional insight into his own memories and the elements that stand out for him along the way. We also discuss the importance of character in football and the importance of individuality in the game. A truly fantastic human being.
The lightning pace of Alphonso Davies has made a significant impact on the European game. A Champions League winner who has broken the internet time after time, his TikTok game has remained ever present while his performances on the pitch have been elite. We talk about that journey from Canada to Germany and what it's like to switch surroundings in such a way. A real generation ringleader, the future is eternal for the man they call Phonzie.
The 50 million £ man. Going back to where it all started, it's the grounding at Milton Keynes that Ben Chilwell takes us through. From the neighbourhood he grew up in, through the academy and development stages of his career, we talk about about what's needed to make it as a contemporary professional player and where he finds his passions now. The importance of both family and friends so important, he's a player who has got to the top with ambitions ever higher. Top guy.
A record breaker wherever she goes and in whatever she does. Vivianne Miedema has a strong, focused head on her shoulders. An out and out winner who is very much writing her own script, as a published author as well as leading striker, she is arguably the best striker on the planet. Letting us in on her life, her mindset and her all round aspirations, she's a breath of fresh air with her honesty. What a player. What a person.
Becoming Manchester United's most prized player in a relatively short time, Bruno Fernandes is nothing short of an outstanding person as well as a performer. No shortage of passion, we learn about the significance of Sporting Lisbon and the surroundings that shaped his character. We discuss the move to United, what happens when you join such a powerhouse and just how fundamental his work ethic is. An hour of his time which captures his personality, we thank you Bruno.
A real generation Z winner, Mason Holgate has emerged onto the scene with a series of strong performances. Tipped for the very top and breaking waves in the Premier League while catching the eye of the International onlookers, he's most recently banked his first top flight goal. Getting to know him and how he approaches life, we discuss it all, from his sneaker collection through to the education in domestic appliances that lockdown offered.
Now a Premier League winner and budding photographer, Gini Wjinaldum is a man of his own efforts. Passionate about the game, his family and the importance of experiencing life, we talk about where it started for him and what it was like to grow up where he did. Expressing his love for Rotterdam and what makes Holland such a special place, it was in this episode we broke the news that games would restart again, post lockdown.
Abby Dahlkemper started every single game for the USWNT during the 2019 World Cup. A tournament she, along with her country went on to win. A real rock at the heart of any defence, this is a player who is resilient and resounding in her attitude. Not just on the pitch matters discussed in this one, there's a lovely segment on the importance of Air Fryers half way through. Respect.
The beauty of hearing an open and honest back story of a players journey is that you get to hear about the realities that come with rising to the top of the game. For Rob Holding, it's from the Bolton Academy, via an end of season back packing trip to Thailand that saw him eventually land in London, signing for Arsenal. Winning an FA Cup in his first season, navigating long-term injury and fighting his way back into the team, we have a lot of time for Rob. Ears out for the cameo his dog makes towards the end...
Ashlyn Harris is everything. A key figure in the USWNT, her career has naturally been full of experiences. Taking everything she can from both the highs and the lows, savouring every moment and being a genuine icon for a generation, her character, charm and charisma are everything that is right about the contemporary game. Addressing the balance of football, it's through her words we can all make a change. Nothing but respect for Ashlyn Harris.
Having played for both Newcastle and Sunderland, DeAndre Yedlin has experienced a passion like other when it comes to footballing rivalries. A game changer and thought provoker in his own wright, this episode journey's his career as well as his energy away from the pitch. From ambitions around his own brand, through to his love for escape rooms and an unquestioned love for art. Genuinely, what a guy.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin has taken his time at the top and utterly owned it. A savvy striker who has successfully carved out his own identity as well as integrity, he's gone from humble beginning to England international and it's with a real level of humility that this likeable player is owning the moment. Another episode confined by Covid, he's made the best out of this situation and headed into a new season flying.
At just 22 years old, the achievements of Mallory Pugh are remarkable. World Cup winner, She Believes Cup winner and all round icon, her journey has been sprinkled with success by the truck-load. Talking the celebrations, the changing landscape of the game and what the future can look like, this conversation shows Mal as both a human but clearly a super hero, too.
One of Australia's most successful players, Caitlin Foord has swapped Stateside life for London. Getting an understanding of what motivated her move and the ambition that has driven her to joining Arsenal, this discussion is open and honest with a player adjusting to life in the UK. Not long having settled and swiftly moving into having to train solo through lockdown, Caitlin is a pivotal player with a strong style.
From the archive: With lockdown life becoming the reality and football on hold, Norwich City starlet Todd Cantwell was our first ever guest on The Dial Up. A player who is in serious demand, he is dedicated to the club that has paved the way for his career. Discussing life in Norfolk and letting us know what's forever stocked in the fridge, this episode is short and sweet and set us on our way to recording this podcast through lockdown and out the other side.