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
Kellyn Acosta: Fashion Forward and Resilient
October 26, 2021 21:00 - 36 minutes - 50.7 MBColorado Rapids and USMNT midfielder Kellyn Acosta joins the Call Up! He discusses the Rapids impressive 2021 season and why head coach Robin Fraser has his team prepared for their postseason run. Kellyn also dives into the “resilient” USMNT and gives his perspective on the team’s performance during the WCQ’s. PLUS - a deep dive into some of his most iconic fashion statements. The drip is real, people.
"Ish Happens" - Dax McCarty
October 19, 2021 21:00 - 39 minutes - 54.5 MBThe captain of Nashville joins the show AGAIN. The Call Up’s inaugural guest dials in from his coaching gig while also leading Nashville SC to the top of the table. He sheds light on his own maturation and that of his son Callum’s while managing the terrible twos. Plus, former Ohio State University football star and business owner Dionte’ Johnson stops by to preview Jersey Week and talk about his incredible patch designs.
Don't Call Minnesota United Underdogs
October 12, 2021 21:10 - 40 minutes - 56 MBThe Call Up welcomes in the “Gaffer” of Minnesota United, Adrian Heath! He explains why his team are no longer the underdogs and what it will take for the Loons to finish above the playoff line. Plus, his journey to the US and how a moment with a Stoke City legend helped shape his winning mentality.
Get to Know ATLUTD’s Gonzalo Pineda
October 05, 2021 21:00 - 32 minutes - 44.2 MBAtlanta United head coach Gonzalo Pineda joins the show. From his playing days in Liga MX and MLS to coaching alongside Brian Schmetzer, Pineda has done it all. Gonzalo pulls back the curtain on an emotional night for Josef Martinez after scoring his 100th goal, changing the culture at ATLUTD, and the formula his team needs to implement in order to make the playoffs in 2021.
Who is the person behind “Jermaine Jones”?
September 28, 2021 21:00 - 45 minutes - 62.2 MBUSMNT, Bundesliga, & MLS legend Jermaine Jones joins the show! Jones breaks the news of his upcoming book and his MLS coaching plans. He opens up about who Jermaine Jones really is versus the “warrior people wanted to see on the field." Plus! You’ll never guess which USMNT legend gave him one of his tattoos...
Maurice Edu: The Bad Moments Are Good Stories to Tell Now
September 21, 2021 21:00 - 46 minutes - 64.4 MBFormer soccer player, current broadcaster, or future movie star? What about...all of the above! The busiest guy in soccer, Mo Edu, joins the Call Up! From working for THREE different networks to producing Hollywood films with Common, Mo LITERALLY does it all. He shares his fascinating soccer journey from player to broadcaster, with plenty of stories in between! Plus, The Call Up celebrates a big night for Ted Lasso...and can now say we’ve had an Emmy winner as a guest. Cheers to that!
Losada Ball: “If You Never Try, You Never Know”
September 14, 2021 21:00 - 46 minutes - 63.4 MBD.C. United head coach Hernan Losada discusses his first year at the helm and why “Losada Ball” works for the club. From growing up in Buenos Aires to playing, and coaching, in his adopted home of Belgium, Losada explains why coaching was always in his future and why this D.C. team could make some noise in the playoffs. Plus, the scoop on his drivers license after that infamous IG story! Julian Gressel also stops by with a touching tribute and important message as we fight to #KickChildhoodC...
Bruce Arena: USMNT Has to "Do a Little Bit of Growing Up"
September 07, 2021 21:00 - 34 minutes - 48 MBThe winningest coach in MLS, Bruce Arena joins the show! His secret? “There are no rules.” After collecting 2 points from 2 matches, the former USMNT boss tells us how we should be feeling about the USMNT’s World Cup Qualifiers performances and what he would say to Weston McKennie. Plus, how good is his 2021 New England Revolution? Arena says he doesn’t even know...YET.
The Ball Doesn’t Know Your Age
August 31, 2021 21:00 - 36 minutes - 50.4 MBBrian Dunseth brings his wealth of expertise to this week’s show! The former MLS defender talks about everything from early MLS days, (including geese in a bedroom and Alexi Lalas as a roommate) to his now role at Sirius XM FC. Plus, Dunny doesn’t hold back in discussing the departure of former Real Salt Lake head coach Freddy Juarez to Seattle, an update on the club’s search, and a surprise...cameo...from Bruce Arena.
The Stars are Shining in LA at MLS All-Star
August 24, 2021 20:03 - 59 minutes - 54.4 MBThe Stars are shining out here in LA as Susannah and Jillian come to you LIVE from MLS All-Star Week. From MLS All-Star Game presented by Target to MLS Skills Challenge Presented by AT&T 5G and ALL the events in between, come join the ladies as they break down all the excitement. Joined by an ALL STAR roster of guests, including Angel City FC Founder and President Julie Uhrman, 2x MLS Cup winner and 8x MLS-All Star Cobi Jones, and Philadelphia Union legend Ray Gaddi, this is one you won't wa...
Prank Wars Part II w/ Johnny Russell & Daniel Salloi
August 17, 2021 21:00 - 38 minutes - 52.7 MBThe gloves are off in this episode with teammates and besties Daniel Salloi & Johnny Russell of Sporting Kansas City. Find out how well they really know each other, who has the better style, and the story of the epic send off they gave Gianluca Busio. Laughs for days, people!
All Aboard the Ricardo Pepi Hype Train
August 10, 2021 21:55 - 29 minutes - 26.9 MBAll Aboard: Coming at you from the Lake! FC Dallas phenom striker Ricardo Pepi joins the show. The 18 year old discusses his Mexican roots, being selected by Bob Bradley as a 2021 MLS All-Star coach's pick, and his future in MLS. Plus: we hear from the FC Dallas social media coordinator that took the Pepi hype train to another level with some new ink. Does The Call Up & Donda have more in common than you realize? Tune in!
Christian Fuchs is Ready To “Pull a Charlotte”
August 03, 2021 21:00 - 31 minutes - 42.7 MBPremier League champion and face of 2022’s Charlotte FC, Christian Fuchs joins the show. He discusses the magical 2015/2016 season for Leicester City and why he wants to “pull a Leicester” in Charlotte. Plus, hear the inside scoop on his brand, No Fuchs Given, and why ending up in the Queens City was written in the cards.
Jim Curtin: It's Not a Matter of If, But When
July 27, 2021 21:00 - 43 minutes - 39.8 MBPhiladelphia Union head coach Jim Curtin joins the show. He discusses the secret sauce to becoming the second most tenured coach in MLS, the most important thing to youth development (hello, Christian Pulisic), and what drastic wardrobe change he made during Covid-19. We want Jim Curtin to be our life coach, and you will too. PS Jim said this was his favorite interview in years!
“Biscuits with the Boss”
July 20, 2021 21:00 - 23 minutes - 33.4 MBHannah Waddingham joins the show ahead of Ted Lasso Season 2. Nominated for 20 Emmys, including an Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series nod for Hannah, the show was a bright light in a tough year, and Hannah lets us know what went into making that happen. Hannah dishes on Ted’s and Rebecca’s strong bond and what it was like bringing one of the most multidimensional female characters on TV to life. Plus, could Ted and Rebecca come over to MLS?! Pour yourself a gin and tonic and j...
Stu Holden’s Life Lessons
July 13, 2021 21:00 - 38 minutes - 53 MBFOX Soccer analyst Stu Holden joins The Call Up! In between calling matches for Gold Cup, Stu gives his take on the USMNT, Canada, and his players to watch. He also reflects on his playing career, why Steve Nash convinced him to become an owner of RCD Mallorca, and how he’s recruiting soccer fans, one A-lister at a time (ahem, John Legend). With a leading voice in North American soccer, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss!
Caden Clark: Red Bulls Wunderkind
July 07, 2021 21:00 - 32 minutes - 44.9 MBNew York Red Bulls standout Caden Clark joins the show. After less than a year in MLS, the 18 year old midfielder is set to join Bundesliga side RB Leipzig next season. Caden discusses his goals for the future, a surprise run-in with Jesse Marsch, and THAT goal against Atlanta United. Caden Clark is a name you’re going to hear for a long time, so come get to know this gem!
Ali Krieger Keeps It Real
June 29, 2021 21:32 - 44 minutes - 60.7 MBAli Krieger opens up about the whirlwind & challenges she and wife Ashlyn Harris faced adopting baby Sloane. Ali dishes THOSE 2019 parties we still CANNOT get over, the World Cup gift from Jay-Z, and if more kids are in the plans. Plus, the “heartbreak” of not making the 2021 USWNT Olympic team, particularly for Ashlyn. And Ali’s message for the youth as Pride Month wraps up!
Brian Schmetzer’s Burner Account
June 22, 2021 21:00 - 29 minutes - 41.3 MBA special day on The Call Up as Sounders Coach Brian Schmetzer comes on and finally answers the question: should Susannah and Jillian really be nervous when interviewing him?!? Brian Schmetzer gives insight into his upbringing, talks about his Seattle through and through roots, and reveals the keys to Seattle’s success in 2021. Plus, burner accounts, a Jordan Morris update, and a game of Never Have I Ever with Brian Schmetzer.
The "Not-So Newlywed" Show with Jonathan Mensah
June 15, 2021 21:38 - 44 minutes - 61.5 MBCelebrate Freedom on today's Call Up with Jill, Susannah, Jonathan Mensah, and Kafui Mensah. The Columbus Crew captain joins the gals ahead of an emotional final match at Historic Crew Stadium. Fresh off receiving his Champion Ring, Jonathan gives insight into what Juneteenth means to him and an update on The Jonathan Mensah Foundation. Plus, Jonathan's wife Kafui stops by to play The "Not-So Newlywed" Game!
Janelly Farias: Mexican Soccer’s Trailblazer
June 08, 2021 22:45 - 34 minutes - 46.7 MBIs Janelly Farias the Mexican National team’s Megan Rapinoe? Fresh off her CBS debut covering CONCACAF Nations League, we hear from the Club América Femenil defender. Farias discusses USMNT & El Tri, the state of women’s soccer in Mexico, and how to best eliminate offensive slurs from the game. Plus, her own inspiring journey.
Tim Howard's Gift to Cole Bassett Keeps on Giving
June 02, 2021 21:00 - 35 minutes - 32.8 MBFresh off his new title as the goals and assists homegrown leader for the Colorado Rapids, Cole Bassett is spilling ALL the secrets. Who has a stylist? Who will two-foot you in practice? Who gives the most extravagant gifts? The young star lets us know. Plus, Cole talks USMNT “north star,” going on trial with Arsenal, and how Brenden Aaronson’s path inspires him (and what his own path looks like). Would Cole Bassett let a teammate cut his hair? Tune in to find out!
Surfing in Houston with Brian Ching
May 25, 2021 21:17 - 43 minutes - 60 MBPull up a chair because Dynamo legend Brian Ching gets the Call Up this week! The 3x MLS Cup champ reminisces about his childhood in Hawaii and how he tried to make surfing in Houston a thing?? Also, the gals get the dish on his new bar in H-town, his favorite Dynamo moments, and why his house is overflowing with stuffed turtles...bet you didn’t see that one coming!
Ears Wide Open
May 18, 2021 21:00 - 35 minutes - 49 MBD.C. United President of Business Operations Danita Johnson joins the show. Danita defines a “winning culture,” illustrates what good leadership (and poor leadership) looks like, and tells the ladies what struck her most about soccer fandom. How does Danita Johnson prefer to handle discussions regarding being a Woman/Woman of Color in sports? Plus...what does it mean to be a President of Business Operations? Susannah and Jillian find out!
A Journey Like No Other
May 11, 2021 21:05 - 39 minutes - 36.3 MBFrom Cyprus to Latvia, Chicago Fire FC’s Chinonso Offor shares his incredible journey to Major League Soccer with Jillian and Susannah. How did Chino end up in Chicago, and has he tried deep dish pizza yet? Plus, are you here for jersey off celebrations and hoodie bow ties? Trust us, you won’t want to miss today’s episode.
El Tráfico: Chicharito vs. Vela
May 04, 2021 21:00 - 32 minutes - 44.4 MBFor the first time in MLS, Mexican star strikers Chicharito and Carlos Vela are set to face off. LAFC lead broadcaster Max Bretos joins the show to preview the rivalry and talk about what this matchup means to the Mexican community. Is Max Here For “El Tráfico,” and what Carlos Vela thinks the rivalry name should be. Plus, Bretos dishes on the secret to Bob Bradley’s heart and a successful broadcasting career. The stars align on this episode!
Pranking 101 with Johnny Russell
April 27, 2021 21:00 - 41 minutes - 38.4 MBThe Sporting Kansas City captain joins the show. Johnny Russell shares a conversation with Peter Vermes, his epic pranking history, and what wearing the captain’s armband means to him. The gritty forward also explains his relationship (and NYC trip) with Daniel Salloi and his knowledge of fine tequila. Here for that.
Matthew McConaughey Plans the Austin FC MLS Cup Afterparty?!
April 21, 2021 00:00 - 34 minutes - 31.6 MBFresh off starting in their first ever match, Ben Sweat discusses the key for expansion clubs, his new teammates...and meeting Matthew McConaughey. Whether the co-owner knows it or not, the Austin FC defender has already dubbed him the guy to plan the MLS Cup After Party! How exactly does fishing meet fashion?! Plus, Ben Sweat gives us a peek into the Austin FC locker room. Come get a tour of Major League Soccer's newest club!
Who is Taylor Twellman?
April 13, 2021 21:00 - 46 minutes - 42.2 MBESPN’s Taylor Twellman joins the ladies ahead of MLS opening weekend and offers up his hot takes on the 2021 season. Taylor opens up about life as a “girl dad” and shares some epic stories about his time playing in Germany. Plus, his best dressed MLS Coach! “WHAT ARE WE DOING?” We’re listening to the Call Up, that’s what.
The Columbus Tea with Sweet Dee
April 06, 2021 21:00 - 37 minutes - 34.8 MBDee Haslam, co-owner of the Columbus Crew and Cleveland Browns, joins the show! “Sweet Dee,” as the supporters dubbed her, discusses coming off historic seasons for both franchises, the new stadium, and Crew ownership In addition to sports, Haslam is a longtime TV production exec and artist. Plus...Dee let's us in on what she is NOT here for. Listen & learn about one of the most fascinating people behind the reigning champs!
Merritt Paulson - Call Up Superfan?
March 30, 2021 21:00 - 43 minutes - 39.5 MBPortland Timbers & Portland Thorns owner (& The Call Up “superfan”) Merritt Paulson joins the show. He talks about why the Timbers are an MLS “Super Club”, how the Paulson family landed in Portland, and navigating NWSL ownership. Merritt Paulson discusses equal pay versus “equal investment,” and weighs in on Gio Savarese’s Portland look. Plus, the ladies put him to the test with a game of This or That: Cascadia Edition.
Walker Zimmerman: It Was Destiny
March 23, 2021 22:25 - 32 minutes - 29.5 MBThe 2020 Defender of the Year gives us the 2021 Nashville SC scouting report. Zimmerman shares what preseason hurdle the team has already bypassed, that time he was a right-back, and we test the soon-to-be father’s Daddy IQ! Plus, a surprise appearance from Uncle Dax McCarty! We love a Call Up baby shower!!
I Was Ahead of My Time
March 16, 2021 21:40 - 46 minutes - 43.4 MBMike Labelle pulls back the curtain on the world of eSports. He describes his path to becoming a pro gamer in 2005 and how the industry has evolved at a rapid pace. The ladies also take his “Influencer 101” course and Mike gives his predictions on 2021 eMLS Cup Final presented by Coca-Cola. Plus...HERE FOR 2021!!
"Don't Forget the Reason Why We're Doing What We're Doing"
March 09, 2021 23:30 - 51 minutes - 47.5 MBFollowing up on their conversation last June, The Call Up welcomes back former MNUFC teammates Jacori Hayes and Mason Toye to discuss the continued fight against racial injustice and why the work can never stop. Mason gives us the scoop on his transition to Club de Foot Montreal and his brief time with Thierry Henry, while Jacori sets the record straight on The Loons status as “underdogs”. An episode worth your time, people. Listen & learn.
Darren Eales, “The Professor”
March 02, 2021 22:00 - 34 minutes - 31.4 MBLove Ted Lasso? You can basically thank ATL UTD President for the show! Josef Martinez (and his puppies) updates, new manager, Gabriel Heinze and what’s next for the roster. Eales divulges on his own playing career, practicing law, and the unique lens he sees his role in the front office of one of MLS’ super clubs.
Justin Morrow & BPC: "I Hardly Look Back"
February 23, 2021 22:00 - 35 minutes - 32.6 MBFresh off signing a new contract with Toronto FC, the ladies welcome Mr. MLS Good Guy Justin Morrow. From preparing for his 8th season with TFC to his duties as Executive Director of Black Players for Change, Justin discusses how he balances it all, including the challenges that Canadian teams face during a pandemic. Justin dishes on new head coach Chris Armas, and what makes TFC a contender in 2021. PLUS - ever wondered what’s in the bag? The gals get to the bottom of the favorite accessory...
Greg Vanney’s big plans for the LA Galaxy
February 16, 2021 22:00 - 31 minutes - 29.2 MBThe ladies live vicariously through new head coach of the LA Galaxy, Greg Vanney, who feels right at home in the SoCal sunshine. He discusses the decision to leave Toronto, how he will restore "the soul” of the Galaxy, and he DOESN’T rule out seeing Chicharito and Sebastian Giovinco on the field together. Plus, the “Sigi Schmid” influence on his coaching style. Speaking of style...did the iconic scarf make the trip to the West Coast? Can you say “here for this” episode?? Because we SO are!
Alexi Lalas: “Of course I believe everything that I say”
February 09, 2021 22:10 - 49 minutes - 45.4 MBThis week the ladies are joined by soccer’s ultimate Renaissance man, Alexi Lalas, who has truly done it all. From player to broadcaster to musician and everything in between, Alexi discusses his views on social media, the youth movement in American Soccer, his musical inspirations, and that time he made a cameo in a Mary Kate & Ashley Olsen film. PLUS - he weighs in on some of his most iconic looks. Flawless or Lawless? You decide!
It Can Define You, or It Can Refine You
January 26, 2021 22:45 - 40 minutes - 37.2 MBJordan Angeli, former Pro and Columbus Crew SC Broadcaster, joins us on today’s episode. How she got her start in broadcasting, what coming to terms with the end of your playing career really looks like, and what we can expect from the Crew in 2021. Jordan gives us an imaginary stadium tour as we look ahead. Who she is closest to on the USWNT roster, plus, is Jordan here for turtlenecks? Lots of fun on this one!
Luis Robles: What’s next for MLS “Ironman”?
January 13, 2021 15:30 - 45 minutes - 41.8 MBBackline to front office?! Fresh off hanging up the boots, Robles opens up about the phone call that inspired him to “announce” retirement, why David Beckham is the coolest, and early personal & career challenges in Germany. Luis also dishes on his passion for MLS and helping the next generation of players. MLS owners, you better get this guy in your front office while you still can! Season 3 of The Call Up kicks off with an interview you do not want to miss.
OMG...BECKY G!
December 08, 2020 23:00 - 44 minutes - 41.1 MBOn the Call Up season finale, Angel City FC Co-owner, singer, actress, and philanthropist Becky G joins the party! She discusses what we can expect for the 2022 NWSL side, a who’s who of female ownership, and an MLS Cup prediction. And yes, we dive a little into quarantine life with boyfriend Sebastian Lletget. You do not want to miss this one. Who said 2020 was all bad?
Landon Donovan: What Is Gravy Anyway?
November 24, 2020 22:00 - 52 minutes - 47.7 MBU.S. soccer legend Landon Donovan joins the show. The best teammates, future of LA Galaxy, last movie that made him cry, why he loves managing, and next aspirations. After being at the center of two on-field controversies in 2020, where do we go from here? Golf with Wayne Gretzky?! Plus, who and what would be at his ideal Thanksgiving table? (Spoiler: gravy optional).
Meet Luchi Gonzalez on the Dance Floor
November 10, 2020 22:31 - 52 minutes - 47.8 MBFC Dallas is gearing up for another crack at the post season. The best-dressed manager in MLS talks challenges, success, youth development, inspiration, AND adds another trophy to the cabinet. Gonzalez family dance-offs? Yup! Spoiler alert: he got it from his mama! Plus, who made OUR Best XI?!
Tyler Miller, Sweet Like Cotton Candy
October 27, 2020 21:55 - 40 minutes - 37.3 MBNever before told stories from the Minnesota United Goalkeeper, including his first pro job in Germany’s fourth division, to the time his mom dressed him in a pink cotton candy costume for Halloween. Miller gives the ladies an injury update and talks about USMNT aspirations. Also, don’t miss GoPro Peter Vermes.
The Power of Positivity
October 13, 2020 21:50 - 50 minutes - 46.4 MBIan Joy joins the show! After a 14 year professional career that spanned the Bundesliga & MLS, the now voice of NYCFC discusses the often untold challenges athletes face, mental health, career evolution, and Ronny Deila’s pants (or lack thereof?!) Nothing is off limits with the always energetic and honest Ian Joy.
If It Means Something to You, Say It Out Loud
September 29, 2020 23:53 - 51 minutes - 47.6 MBKyle Martino talks sliding into Diego Maradona’s DMs and more! A candid and fascinating sit down with the former MLS Rookie of the Year. Martino talks life after MLS and NBC Sports, running for US Soccer president, family, and his newest vision: Haus. Plus, pumpkin spice jerseys?! Come hang 2020 style at the Haus for this episode. You won’t want to miss it!
A Good Bottle is Only as Good as Your Company
September 15, 2020 22:26 - 40 minutes - 37.3 MBGio Savarese joins the show! The Portland Timbers head coach discusses the Pacific Northwest wildfires, Sebastian Blanco, and how he found his way from Venezuela to Long Island University. Gio shares the importance of having a good meal (with even better company), but what food won’t he be serving? Plus, a very special guest drops by for an exciting announcement! Pour yourself a glass of wine because you won’t want to miss this one.
A Real "Head Turner"
September 01, 2020 21:45 - 35 minutes - 32.9 MBNew England Revolution Goalkeeper Matt Turner joins the show ! A fascinating conversation about a constant theme through his career, picking up the game of soccer at 16, and eyeliner (he said it, not us). Jillian Sakovits is joined by guest co-host Tiffany Blackmon (Sus has a much deserved week off). The ladies uncover more truths about the Turner's Lithuanian passport, Bruce Arena, and the Revs locker room personalities.
Leandro González Pírez links up with Matuidi....and Messi?!
August 18, 2020 21:05 - 48 minutes - 44.2 MBIn this episode of The Call Up Presented by Heineken, the ladies catch up with Inter Miami’s Leandro Gonzalez Pirez, who reflects on his time with ATLUTD, what it was like joining his new team in the “MLS Bubble,” and those Messi to Miami rumors...Plus, FIFA & PRO referee Katy Nesbitt discusses breaking barriers as the first female to officiate an MLS title match in the MLS is Back Tournament. Are Susannah & Jill here for those celebration showers?? Crack open a bottle of Heineken and find o...
A Very Canadian Call Up
August 04, 2020 23:00 - 40 minutes - 36.7 MBOh, Canada! In this episode of The Call Up Susannah & Jill catch up with two of the finest from north of the border who have both made headlines in the MLS is Back Tournament. Thomas Hasal, the 21-year-old backup keeper for Vancouver discusses THAT performance, how he was prepared for the big stage, becoming an MLS meme and his new celebrity status. Also, are Orlando City SC the tournament underdogs? Tesho Akindele gives the gals his take and explains why Oscar Pareja has this team rolling. ...