The Call Up
142 episodes - English - Latest episode: over 1 year ago - ★★★★★ - 199 ratingsNot many people are as close to Major League Soccer’s players, coaches and fans as MLSsoccer.com’s Jillian Sakovits and Susannah Collins. Whether it’s on the sidelines or working on a feature story, they spend much of the season on the road and interacting with the newsmakers of the league. With 9 seasons of MLS experience between them and the closest of friends, Jill & Susannah invite you to pull up a chair and be a part of the conversations that up until now had stayed between them over a couple cocktails! We pull back the curtain to what it's like covering MLS – on and off the field.
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Episodes
A Perfect Hollywood Ending: LAFC Wins MLS Cup
November 06, 2022 11:00 - 13 minutes - 12.8 MBGoals in extratime, a Gareth Bale header that sends the game to PKs, and a goalkeeper sub that ends in an MVP performance sound like a Hollywood movie, but that is exactly what MLS Cup 2022 featured. Join The Call Up in our season finale as we take in all the emotions.
Unfinished Business in Philadelphia
October 25, 2022 21:00 - 31 minutes - 43.1 MBGet to know Leon Flach! The 21 year old German has played every game since arriving last season & just had the game winner to send the Union back to the Eastern Conference Final!! Hear about his journey, why he loves Jim Curtin, and the epic upcoming Conference Final rematch with NYCFC.
Brad Stuver: “These are the games that make rivalries explode”
October 18, 2022 20:00 - 40 minutes - 55.6 MBFrom the ESPY’s to the Audi 2022 MLS Cup Playoffs, we cover it all with Austin FC Goalkeeper Brad Stuver. Fresh off his penalty kick win, he talks upcoming date with rival FC Dallas, his path to a starting role, and his advocacy for ALL. This episode will have you as hyped as we are for more Playoffs action.
A Golden Season for Hany Mukhtar
October 11, 2022 21:00 - 29 minutes - 41 MB2022 MLS Golden Boot Pres. by Audi winner Nashville SC midfielder Hany Mukhtar is a ray of sunshine on this very timely & smiley episode. We discuss his 2022 scoring prowess, Nashville SC’s Playoff plans, and who he wants to see in the MLS Cup Final. No matter your team, this episode gives you all the positive vibes.
¡Bienvenidos a Ximena Cebreros: the MLS Español collab you’ve been waiting for!
October 04, 2022 21:00 - 48 minutes - 66 MBWe catch up with MLSES host & reporter Ximena Cebreros. From Mexico to NYC, Ximena shares her career path, from covering news and entertainment in her home country to now interviewing the biggest names in MLS. She discusses the difference between media coverage in the US and Latin America and why a partnership between MLS and Liga MX is a win for the sport globally.
Eskandarian Chronicles: Leaving Iran, 2004 D.C. United, & Kim Kardashian
September 27, 2022 21:00 - 42 minutes - 38.5 MBAlecko Eskandarian joins the show! Find out what the former MLS Cup MVP said about the secret to that 2004 DCU team and how his 2010 date with Kim Kardashian came to be. Plus, his family’s incredible journey from Armenia to Iran to the NY Cosmos and what he recalls about a young Christian Pulisic.
Gaga Slonina Gets Set to Join Christian Pulisic at Chelsea
September 20, 2022 21:00 - 25 minutes - 35.1 MB18 year old Chicago Fire goalkeeper is about to make the move of a lifetime to Chelsea FC of the Premier League. The ladies discuss his breakout season with the Fire, what USMNT goalies have lent a helping hand, and his secret talents! Plus, where he got the name Gaga and we unveil his ranking for 22 Under 22 presented by BODYARMOR!
Giorgio Chiellini: Why MLS has more talent than Serie A
September 13, 2022 21:00 - 42 minutes - 58.9 MBGet star stuck on this episode with superstar Giorgio Chiellini! A "student" of the game, Chiellini discusses how the defender role has changed through the years and which MLS defenders impress him. His love for tacos, LAFC supporters, and the Supporters' Shield race. Plus, what is the real story behind THAT espresso machine?
Did Phil Neville & David Beckham sign a friendship pact?
September 06, 2022 21:00 - 44 minutes - 60.5 MBInter Miami manager Phil Neville shares his “brilliant basics” and Beckham’s 2022 expectations. The Pep Guardiola + Bruce Arena dinner party you don’t want to miss and what will surprise you about Gonzalo Higuain. Neville also shares the amazing story of the Bury FC (pronounced “Berry”) family business. P.S. he gets it from his mama!
Making Sure "Cinderella Gets the Slipper Put on Her Foot"
August 30, 2022 21:00 - 24 minutes - 33.8 MBAhead of their historic appearance in the U.S. Open Cup Final, Sacramento Republic head coach Mark Briggs joins the pod. He discusses his team’s “Cinderella story” in this year’s tournament as they look to become the first non-MLS team to take home the Lamar Hunt trophy since 1999, facing off against Orlando City in the final. Also, Mark explains why the city of Sacramento has embraced this team and how their supporters will make their presence known at Exploria Stadium on Sept 7th!
Tesho Akindele: “Pressure is a Privilege”
August 23, 2022 21:00 - 34 minutes - 46.9 MBThe Call Up welcomes Orlando City forward Tesho Akindele back to the pod. Fresh off his game winning goal, Tesho explains why he’s able to show up in big moments, saying “pressure is a privilege”. He discusses his relationship with head coach Oscar Pareja and what it would mean for OCSC to win their first trophy in the US Open Cup. Plus - his advice to young players planning for the future.
Matt Miazga: MLS return, José Mourinho, & USMNT Future
August 16, 2022 21:00 - 27 minutes - 37.7 MBFresh off his signing with FC Cincinnati, Matt Miazga joins the pod. He discusses his return to the U.S. and MLS (he still calls it football, lol), and how he and the league have evolved since his time with the New York Red Bulls. Matt also shares his hopes for the USMNT and reveals what that first meeting with José Mourinho was really like.
LIVE from Minnesota: Featuring Adrian Heath, Walker Zimmerman & MORE!
August 09, 2022 02:38 - 2 hours - 130 MBIt's All-Star Week and we are HYPED! Join Susannah Collins and Jillian Sakovits as they chat with your 2022 MLS All-Stars LIVE from Minnesota.
The Woman Behind the 2022 MLS All-Star Game Pres. by Target
August 02, 2022 21:00 - 33 minutes - 46.3 MBMNUFC President Shari Ballard joins the show. In 2021, Ballard joined the few but growing number of female MLS club presidents. After 25 years at the highest ranks of Best Buy, she says the club “feeds her soul.” Listen to her fascinating story & get set for the 2022 All-Star Game Presented by Target in Minnesota!
Vanni Sartini's Democracy
July 26, 2022 21:00 - 32 minutes - 29.5 MBVancouver Whitecaps head coach Vanni Sartini joins the ladies ahead of the Canadian Championship Final. How he made his way to Vancouver, his preferred pizza toppings, and a special cameo from Frida the Cat.
Paul Arriola’s Pugs Deliver Big News
July 19, 2022 21:00 - 31 minutes - 43.5 MBFresh off being named to his first MLS All-Star Roster, Paul Arriola joins the pod! He discusses the epic way in which he found out about his All-Star selection (spoiler: his dog was involved), his connection with teammate Jesús Ferreira, and why FC Dallas feels like home. Plus, a super fun edition of USMNT Superlatives!
AntonTinnerholm’s Triumphant Return, an NYCFC Repeat, & Taty Castellanos' Future
July 12, 2022 21:00 - 33 minutes - 46.1 MBAnton Tinnerholm makes his triumphant return to the field after his October achilles injury. After missing MLS Cup, the right back is eager for NYCFC to repeat. He discusses Ronny Deila’s departure and Taty Castellanos’ desire to go to Europe. Plus - if NYCFC repeats, will Nick Cushing follow suit and do a Deila-level celebration? Tune in to find out!
Anton Tinnerholm’s Triumphant Return, an NYCFC Repeat, & Taty Castellanos' Future
July 12, 2022 21:00 - 33 minutes - 46.1 MBAnton Tinnerholm makes his triumphant return to the field after his October achilles injury. After missing MLS Cup, the right back is eager for NYCFC to repeat. He discusses Ronny Deila’s departure and Taty Castellanos’ desire to go to Europe. Plus - if NYCFC repeats, will Nick Cushing follow suit and do a Deila-level celebration? Tune in to find out!
How Macklemore Helped Turn Kelyn Rowe into an Icon
July 05, 2022 21:00 - 35 minutes - 32.4 MBMLS mainstay and style ICON Kelyn Rowe drops by with what has now become the infamous jacket. Post CCL championship celebrations, all the wine chat you could ever imagine, and how Macklemore helped make his CCL celebrations iconic. You won't want to miss this one!
An important discussion & interview with Jenny Chiu of CBS
June 28, 2022 21:07 - 45 minutes - 42.1 MBJenny Chiu of CBS joins the show to discuss her role with CBS, captaining the U-17 Mexican national team, career journey, and her fight to play on a boys team to make it all happen. Plus, a message from Jillian & Susannah in what has been a dark week for many - you are not alone.
Dániel Gazdag Makes History with Hungary
June 21, 2022 21:00 - 29 minutes - 40.8 MBThe Philadelphia Union midfielder is fresh off international duty after his native Hungary shocked the world, beating England 4-0 to now lead their group in UEFA Nations League (which includes Germany & Italy). Gazdag is also having a standout season with the Union and is determined to have another MLS Cup run. We get a tattoo guarantee you only find here!
Kaylyn Kyle keeps it REAL
June 14, 2022 21:00 - 39 minutes - 36.5 MBSoccer media superstar Kaylyn Kyle joins the Call Up. A bronze medalist for the #CANWNT, Kaylyn offers her insight on Canada’s outlook in Qatar, playing for John Herdman, and how her journey helped manifest her “dream job”. Plus! A historic announcement from MLS and Apple - a match made in soccer heaven!
Pressure on Coal to Make a Diamond
June 07, 2022 21:00 - 39 minutes - 53.9 MBA true legend, Briana Scurry, joins the Call Up for a conversation about her trailblazing career that includes 2 Olympic gold medals, a World Cup Championship, and her induction to the Soccer Hall of Fame - the first black woman and female goalkeeper to receive that honor. Briana discusses her new memoir “My Greatest Save,” coming out on June 21st, as well as the documentary “The Only” highlighting her remarkable life and soccer journey. Take a listen to what she hopes people will take away ...
Chris Seitz: When Fitness Goes Dangerously Too Far
May 31, 2022 19:00 - 36 minutes - 50.5 MB15 year MLS veteran goalkeeper Chris Seitz opens up about the extreme fitness/health regime he faced at D.C. United and the devastating effects it had on his physical and mental health. What he wants people to know about professional athletes pushing the limits and what clubs can do to prevent this from happening. A raw, candid and important conversation that deserves your time.
Grant Wahl Unleashed
May 24, 2022 21:00 - 41 minutes - 57.5 MBThe soccer media OG Grant Wahl joins the pod! What is the first question he would ask Lionel Messi and Kim K? We get the scoop. Also, how his career has flourished amidst a changing media landscape and which USMNT players have the most to prove in the upcoming friendlies. Plus, Grant shares details on his upcoming project.
Cheerio! Matt Turner Checks In Before Move to Arsenal
May 17, 2022 21:26 - 41 minutes - 37.8 MBFrom 2016 undrafted free agent to Premier League goalkeeper, Matt Turner joins the show. He discusses his love for the New England Revolution and its fans, putting on his “big boy pants” and we gauge just how ready he is for life in England! With a baby on the way, the newlywed gives us all the life details before his big move.
Djordje Mihailovic: Le MVP??
May 10, 2022 21:00 - 40 minutes - 55.4 MBIn the midst of an MVP caliber 2022 season, CF Montréal midfielder Djordje Mihailovic joins the pod. A true student of the game, he explains why he’s focused on scoring more goals this season, but says delivering assists will always be his favorite. Has Gregg Berhalter been in touch?? We get the scoop. Plus, Djordje gives a shout out to the high school teacher that helped make his professional soccer career possible. An entertaining convo with one of MLS’s most exciting young players…check i...
How to Become an MLS Folk Hero: Meet Soccer Moses
May 03, 2022 21:00 - 22 minutes - 20.5 MBNashville’s most recognizable fan sits down with us. Soccer Moses was introduced at Nashville SC’s inaugural MLS match in Feb 2020 and quickly became one of the league’s most iconic fan faces. The man behind the beard & robe, Stephen Mason, explains the genesis of his alter ego, what he’s doing in real life, and what’s to come. Oh yeah, and he's also a Grammy Award winning musician and master barber!
Nashville Makes History: The Largest Soccer-Specific Stadium in the U.S. Opens it's Doors
April 29, 2022 01:30 - 50 minutes - 46 MBWhat’s up Nashville?! The Call Up takes Nashville for a special roadshow ahead of the opening of GEODIS Park. Music City is BUZZING, and midfielder Alex Muyl, CEO Ian Ayre, and GM Mike Jacobs take us through the emotions leading up to Nashville’s big day. Plus, what is takes to run a club, how to build a roster [of good people], and why did Timothee Chalamet force Alex Muyl to do the Soulja Boy? Take a listen.
Opening GEODIS Park with Alex Muyl, Ian Ayre, and Mike Jacobs
April 29, 2022 01:30 - 50 minutes - 46 MBWhat’s up Nashville?! The Call Up takes Nashville for a special roadshow ahead of the opening of GEODIS Park. Music City is BUZZING, and midfielder Alex Muyl, CEO Ian Ayre, and GM Mike Jacobs take us through the emotions leading up to Nashville’s big day. Plus, what is takes to run a club, how to build a roster [of good people], and why did Timothee Chalamet force Alex Muyl to do the Soulja Boy? Take a listen.
Damir Kreilach: So Far, So Great!
April 19, 2022 21:00 - 43 minutes - 59.8 MBRSL Captain Damir Kreilach joins the pod to share his journey from Croatia to Salt Lake City and why the move to Real Salt Lake was the best decision of his life. Damir discusses the importance of his versatility as a player and explains why RSL has embraced the underdog mentality. As Damir says, “so far, so great!”
Get To Know Greg Vanney & Steve Cherundolo: El Tráfico Extravaganza Part 2
April 12, 2022 21:00 - 30 minutes - 28.4 MBWe TOLD YOU we weren't leaving! Come join us as we get to know the leaders behind LA Galaxy and LAFC: head coaches Greg Vanney and Steve Cherundolo.
Chicharito, Kellyn Acosta, and MORE: El Tráfico Extravaganza Part 1
April 07, 2022 01:34 - 43 minutes - 39.8 MBEl Tráfico, IRL, on The Call Up! The ladies are joined by Chicharito, Julián Araujo, Kellyn Acosta, and Maxime Crépeau in this first part sit down in Los Angeles with the stars of LA Galaxy and LAFC.
Fleeing Ukraine: Dema Kovalenko Tells His Familial Story
March 29, 2022 21:00 - 35 minutes - 49 MB“It’s like a movie” is how 2x MLS All-Star Dema Kovalenko describes the dire war situation in his native Ukraine. The Call Up speaks to Dema from Poland, where he tries to find out what and where is next for his family, who were forced to flee their Kyiv home. Take a listen.
Together Again: SKC II Coaches Benny Feilhaber & Ike Opara
March 22, 2022 21:10 - 50 minutes - 69.1 MBYou heard that right! Reunited and it feels so good! Ahead of opening weekend for MLS Next Pro, The Call Up welcomes in former SKC teammates (and podcast hosts!), Benny Feilhaber and Ike Opara, as they prepare for their first season at the helm of SKC II. The duo discuss their coaching styles and influences, as well as what success looks like in year one. Plus, Benny’s thoughts on the upcoming WCQ window and why this USMNT has what it takes to get the job done. A podcast reunion you don’t wa...
Together Again: SKCII Coaches Benny Feilhaber & Ike Opara
March 22, 2022 21:10 - 50 minutes - 69.1 MBYou heard that right! Reunited and it feels so good! Ahead of opening weekend for MLS Next Pro, The Call Up welcomes in former SKC teammates (and podcast hosts!), Benny Feilhaber and Ike Opara, as they prepare for their first season at the helm of SKC II. The duo discuss their coaching styles and influences, as well as what success looks like in year one. Plus, Benny’s thoughts on the upcoming WCQ window and why this USMNT has what it takes to get the job done. A podcast reunion you don’t wa...
An In Depth Sit-Down with Claudio Reyna in Austin
March 15, 2022 21:00 - 51 minutes - 70.7 MBThe Call Up hits the road to SXSW in Austin for a candid conversation with Claudio Reyna. The former USMNT captain & Austin FC sporting director shares incredible stories and insight, ranging from Maradona, World Cups, son Gio Reyna, USMNT, building a roster, MLS…and of course, a Bruce Arena impression. A soccer IQ & tales you don’t want to miss!
Nadia Nadim: “I love the fact that I’m doing everything [the Taliban doesn't] want me to do”
March 08, 2022 22:00 - 42 minutes - 58.9 MBNadia Nadim is clinical in more ways than one! After fleeing Afghanistan at age 11, Nadia became a world renowned striker and an MD…all at the same time. This is a story you need to hear. Happy International Women’s Day!
“It flipped the switch for me” - the Landon Donovan effect on Jack Maher
March 01, 2022 23:20 - 37 minutes - 51.6 MBGot milk? Nashville defender Jack Maher joins the show after Nashville’s 1-0 win in Seattle to open. What Dax McCarty did to welcome him to the squad, Jack’s experience with San Diego Loyal coach Landon Donovan, and the Nashville SC season plan.
Danielle Slaton: Progress Doesn’t Happen in a Straight Line
February 22, 2022 22:00 - 55 minutes - 76.5 MBDanielle Slaton: broadcaster, former USWNT player, board member, mother, and all around busiest person in soccer drops by The Call Up. Danielle talks USWNT, how she got started in broadcasting, and SJ Earthquakes. Plus, Best Dressed MLS Coach Power Rankings are BACK!
Gianluca Busio: Living La Bella Vita in Venezia
February 15, 2022 22:00 - 41 minutes - 56.8 MBUSMNT & Serie A midfielder Gianluca Busio joins the show. The kid from Greensboro, NC discusses his new life in Italy and how the move brought his heritage full circle, his USMNT plans, and his reflections on his time with SKC. Sit back, relax, and tour Venezia with Gianluca.
Miles Robinson: Defender of Love
February 08, 2022 22:00 - 33 minutes - 46.7 MBUSMNT & Atlanta United centerback joins the show from Guadalajara, Mexico. The forever humble Miles Robinson speaks of plans for the future while staying grounded in the present. Get to know one the best defenders in MLS on a deeper level as Miles joins the Call Up crew to talk about everything from Paris to Gregg Berhalter to Quaker schooling to the World Cup.
Kacper Przybylko: MLS's Robert Lewandowski
February 01, 2022 22:00 - 51 minutes - 70.4 MBWe back BABY! Season 4 of The Call Up welcomes in Chicago Fire’s newest signing, Kacper Przybylko. The Polish striker who led the Union in goals the last 3 seasons has a fascinating journey. From growing up and playing in Germany to making his mark in MLS, Kacper discusses why he’s pumped to make the move to the Windy City. Plus, he makes a life changing announcement! The 2022 season starts with a bang and we are HERE FOR IT!
Ronny Deila Strips and James Sands is Feeling "******* Amazing"
December 12, 2021 16:00 - 17 minutes - 24.4 MBWE HAVE A CHAMPION! Join us for our season finale as Susannah and Jillian take you on the field moments after NYCFC win their first MLS Cup. Raw emotions, promises kept (we’re looking at you, Ronny Deila), and the best kind of chaos. Grab a drink because it’s a party!
LIVE from Portland...It's THE CALL UP
December 10, 2021 01:10 - 2 hours - 183 MBMLS Cup is HERE and Susannah and Jillian are joined by a who's who of MLS characters. Gudmundur Thórarinsson serenades the ladies, Sebastian Blanco talks about his special connection with Diego Valeri, and our first pod pet?! Trust us, you won't want to miss this one!
Real Salt Lake: NOT a Cinderella Story
December 01, 2021 22:00 - 38 minutes - 53.4 MBFresh off another mind-blowing Audi 2021 MLS Cup Playoffs performance against Sporting Kansas City, The Call Up welcomes in Justen Glad and David Ochoa ahead of their Western Conference Final appearance. Justen gives the story behind his now historic PK against Seattle and David discusses why he’s embraced being everyone’s favorite MLS villain. Looking to shed the label of “Cinderella story”, for RSL, it’s all about BELIEF.
Peter Vermes: It’s My Job to Protect and Defend
November 24, 2021 22:00 - 43 minutes - 59.1 MBSpend Thanksgiving with Sporting Kansas City head coach Peter Vermes! The longest tenured coach in MLS discusses the key to beating Real Salt Lake in the Conference Semifinals (hint: it’s scoring goals) and shares some personal insights that include why he gives his players personality tests AND his least favorite Thanksgiving dish. Plus, what Tom Brady & Johnny Russell have in common.
"Defying Gravity" & Playoff Primer with Matt Doyle
November 16, 2021 22:00 - 40 minutes - 56 MBA brown liquor special with Matt Doyle, the MLS Armchair Analyst, to get us all primed & set for the Audi 2021 MLS Cup Playoffs. The Renaissance man takes us from his days as a playwright to the MLS guru we know and love. Which showtune does your team remind Doyle of and what should you expect in the Playoffs? The answers are all right here!
The Humble Striker: Brian White
November 09, 2021 22:00 - 34 minutes - 47.5 MBSurging Vancouver Whitecaps striker Brian White joins the show. Jersey boy Brian brings us inside the Vancouver Whitecaps success, coaching change, and why being a “humble striker” (don’t hear that much) works wonders for him.
John Tolkin: “I didn’t even know who Joe Dirt was”
November 02, 2021 21:00 - 32 minutes - 45.1 MBThe Call Up welcomes John Tolkin of the New York Red Bulls to the pod! The 19-year-old discusses his breakout season in 2021 and what it’s like to go from ball boy to starring on the field for the club he grew up cheering for. Plus, the ladies get his take on the New York Derby and his ever-evolving hair styles. Will we see a Playoff push mullet?? Listen and find out!