Best Ozark United FC Podcasts (2025)

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Ep. 46 - KC and Portland Showed Ross Cully What NWA Soccer Could Be 37:35

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5d ago37:35

37:35

What happens when passion for soccer meets the explosive growth of Northwest Arkansas? Ross Cully, founder and CEO of Harvest Group and early investor in Ozark United FC, reveals the powerful vision behind bringing professional soccer to this dynamic region. Ross shares his personal connection to the beautiful game, from youth leagues in Missouri t…

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Stoppage Time Special: When Growth Changes the Game 5:12

12d ago5:12

5:12

This Stoppage Time edition of the Pitch to Pro podcast features a focused look at the role of vision in entrepreneurship, regional development, and professional sports ownership, all through the lens of Northwest Arkansas’ rapid transformation. In this short segment from Episode 45, we revisit a conversation with Ross Cully that highlights how NWA’…

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Ep. 45 - An Investor’s Vision for NWA 25:22

19d ago25:22

25:22

Ever wonder what happens when entrepreneurial vision meets professional sports? Join us for an engaging conversation with Ross Cully, founder and CEO of Harvest Group and investor in Ozark United FC, as he shares his two-decade journey in Northwest Arkansas. Ross takes us back to his first encounter with NWA at Nolan Richardson's basketball camp, t…

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Stoppage Time Special: MLS, USL, and Beyond: Making Sense of American Soccer 7:16

26d ago7:16

7:16

As the FIFA Club World Cup captivates soccer fans around the globe, it feels like the perfect time to take a step back and revisit one of the most confusing—and often misunderstood—aspects of the beautiful game: how soccer is structured here in the United States. In this Stoppage Time episode of Pitch to Pro, we’ve pulled together highlights from E…

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Stoppage Time Special: Growth Beyond the Giants 5:56

1M ago5:56

5:56

Welcome to this week’s Stoppage Time edition of the Pitch to Pro podcast, where we feature a powerful five-minute excerpt from one of our previous full-length conversations. In this episode, we take you deep into the economic transformation of Northwest Arkansas — a region whose growth story is often reduced to headlines about big-name companies. B…

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Stoppage Time Special: How Soccer is Changing Northwest Arkansas 6:44

1M ago6:44

6:44

This Stoppage Time Episode pulls a powerful snippet from one of our earliest Pitch to Pro conversations - Ep. 16 - From Local Chambers to Soccer Fields: Pioneering Progress in Northwest Arkansas. Soccer isn't just a sport; it's an engine for economic growth and a force for community connection. In this archival highlight, we revisit a moment that e…

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Stoppage Time Special: How Sports Teams Became Gold Mines 5:52

2M ago5:52

5:52

Welcome to this Stoppage Time edition of the Pitch to Pro Podcast — a fast-paced highlight from last week’s full episode. In this five-minute segment, we explore how professional sports have transformed into one of the most lucrative investment landscapes in modern business. From Jerry Jones’ once-controversial $250 million purchase of the Dallas C…

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Ep. 44 - What Makes Northwest Arkansas Ripe for Pro Soccer? 43:51

2M ago43:51

43:51

Ever wonder how waste management and professional soccer intersect? Andy McNeil, a successful Arkansas entrepreneur who built multi-million dollar environmental service companies, takes us on an unexpected journey through both worlds in this captivating conversation. McNeil's business savvy shines as he explains how he transformed small waste manag…

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Stoppage Time Special: The Magic of Community Through Soccer 8:37

2M ago8:37

8:37

In this special Stoppage Time edition of The Pitch to Pro Podcast, we revisit one of the most heartfelt and powerful moments from a past episode—an honest reflection on the indescribable magic of Northwest Arkansas and the unifying spirit of soccer. You’ll hear a behind-the-scenes glimpse from Mayor Greg Hines into the intentional process of buildi…

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Stoppage Time Special: What Makes Great Players Stand Out 6:50

2M ago6:50

6:50

Ever wondered what truly separates exceptional soccer players from the rest? The answer might surprise you. In this Stoppage Time edition of the Pitch to Pro podcast, we dive deep into player development, purpose, and the exciting soccer landscape emerging in Northwest Arkansas. The conversation explores how finding meaning beyond your career creat…

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Ep. 43 - MLS Next is Coming to NWA: What It Means for Players 28:15

2M ago28:15

28:15

Kevin Tello is coming home to Northwest Arkansas with a mission. The newly appointed Director of Ozark United FC's MLS Next Academy joins us to share his journey from LA transplant to rising Division I coach, and why he's passionate about building a professional pathway for soccer players in the region he once called home. "When I was a player, and…

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Stoppage Time Special: The Search for Investors 8:24

3M ago8:24

8:24

Money makes the beautiful game possible, but what happens behind the scenes to fund a professional soccer franchise? This revealing Stoppage Time edition of Pitch to Pro pulls back the curtain on the complex investment structures that can make or break a soccer club. We dive deep into the critical role of the primary investor in professional soccer…

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Ep. 42 - Inside the Pivot: How Land Deals Shaped Ozark United’s Stadium Plans 49:26

3M ago49:26

49:26

The seed for Ozark United FC was planted as "a crazy thought" in co-founder Chris Martinovic's mind years ago, and today, that seedling has grown into a full-fledged plan to bring professional soccer to Northwest Arkansas. In this candid conversation with Managing Director Wes Harris, Martinovic gives listeners unprecedented access to the behind-th…

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Stoppage Time Special: Crests & Identity 6:01

3M ago6:01

6:01

Check out this Stoppage Time Special from Ep. 18: What Makes a Good Soccer Crest? What's the difference between a forgettable logo and an iconic football crest that fans proudly tattoo on their bodies? Our latest Stoppage Time segment dives deep into the art and science behind the badges that represent the world's most beloved clubs. A truly great …

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Stoppage Time Special: A Girl's Right to Play 8:30

3M ago8:30

8:30

Check out this Stoppage Time special from Ep. 41 - Her Game Too: Fighting for Equality in Soccer - Part 2! Gender equality in soccer remains an uphill battle, especially in communities where women's participation is still considered unusual. "I don't know many women my age who watch soccer... it's me and my dad, that's all I know about soccer fans,…

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Ep. 41 - Her Game Too: Fighting for Equality in Soccer - Part 2 32:24

4M ago32:24

32:24

When Jenn Ramczyk was questioned about her soccer knowledge in a Chicago pub, she didn't just walk away – she challenged the skeptics loudly enough for others to hear. This moment exemplifies the mission behind Her Game Too USA, an initiative she co-founded with Natasha Brand and Amy Kate Sokoll to create safe spaces for women in soccer. The grassr…

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Ep. 40 - New Stadium, New Dreams: Inside Ozark United FC’s Stadium Pivot 48:27

4M ago48:27

48:27

Warren Smith has been watching Northwest Arkansas evolve for decades. What started as family visits in the 1990s has transformed into a mission to bring professional soccer to a region he describes as having "come into its own." As co-founder of Ozark United FC, Smith brings the experience of five successful sports franchise launches to a community…

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Stoppage Time Special: The American Fan Experience 6:31

4M ago6:31

6:31

Soccer's ascent in America has been remarkable – once considered a foreign oddity, it now captivates millions across the country. This Stoppage Time edition of the Pitch to Pro podcast explores this transformation through the eyes of passionate supporters who've witnessed the sport's incredible growth firsthand. We dive deep into what makes support…

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Stoppage Time Special: The Fight Against Soccer Sexism 7:22

4M ago7:22

7:22

Soccer has a unique power to unite people across boundaries, but two significant challenges threaten this unity: the pressure adults put on young players and the barriers women face as fans. This special Stoppage Time edition of Pitch to Pro explores these crucial conversations through highlights from Part 1 of our conversation with Her Game Too. W…

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Ep. 39 - Her Game Too: Fighting for Equality in Soccer 25:54

5M ago25:54

25:54

Natasha Brand and Jenn Ramczyk never had the opportunity to play organized soccer as young girls. Now, they're transforming the landscape for women across America as co-founders of Her Game Too USA. Growing up in England, Natasha recalls how soccer simply "wasn't for girls" - schools divided sports strictly by gender, leaving girls to play informal…

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Stoppage Time Special: John Harkes' Journey from the UK to the U.S. Soccer Scene 8:51

5M ago8:51

8:51

What if the journey of American soccer mirrors a thrilling western adventure, complete with risks, leaps of faith, and a relentless pursuit of growth? Join us in this Stoppage Time edition of Pitch to Pro as we unpack the riveting tale of John Harkes, who navigated the soccer landscapes from the UK to the U.S. Amidst the vibrant, chaotic, and rapid…

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Ep. 38 - John Harkes: A U.S. Soccer Legend's Journey - Part 2 24:18

5M ago24:18

24:18

U.S. soccer legend John Harkes steps into the spotlight as we explore his fascinating journey from a celebrated player to an influential coach. Discover the secrets behind John’s transition to media work with "MLS Wrap" while nurturing his coaching passion through youth clubs. He generously shares his coaching philosophy, rooted in humility and cre…

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Stoppage Time Special: Exploring Modern Football Dynamics and Mentorship 8:21

5M ago8:21

8:21

What does it take to leave a lasting legacy in the world of soccer? In this episode, we feature the extraordinary journey of a former professional soccer player who has seamlessly transitioned into media and coaching. Hear firsthand how the threads of family and community support have woven a tapestry of character and humility throughout his career…

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Ep. 37 - John Harkes: A U.S. Soccer Legend’s Journey - Part 1 28:37

6M ago28:37

28:37

Join us for a captivating conversation with US soccer legend John Harkes as we explore his incredible journey from the playgrounds of Kearny, New Jersey—affectionately known as "Soccer Town, USA"—to the world stage. Discover how the tight-knit community of Kearney, fueled by immigrant passion, played a pivotal role in shaping his career and the bro…

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Stoppage Time Special: Balancing Winning and Growth in Youth Soccer 8:37

6M ago8:37

8:37

Imagine witnessing a young athlete achieve their dreams and thinking, "If they can do it, so can I." This week on the Pitch to Pro podcast, we're joined by a former high-level player turned coach, who shares his compelling journey through the evolving soccer landscape in Northwest Arkansas. Ryan Williams breaks down the significance of intellectual…

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Ep. 36 - Transitioning from Player to Mentor 29:37

6M ago29:37

29:37

Join us as we chat with Ryan Williams, an inspiring figure in the world of soccer coaching and development. Once a professional soccer player, Ryan now channels his passion for the sport into coaching, sharing insightful stories from his journey. He candidly discusses the transition from player to coach, highlighting the challenges and triumphs alo…

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Stoppage Time Special: From College Soccer to USL, Navigating the Pro Path 6:02

6M ago6:02

6:02

Ever wondered what it takes to leap from college soccer to the professional arena? Join us for a special Stoppage Time edition of the Pitch to Pro podcast, where we sit down with a player who has navigated that very path, from college soccer to the USL Championship. Our guest shares invaluable insights into the world of professional soccer, sheddin…

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Ep. 35 - Hawaii to the USL: Ryan Williams' Soccer Journey 32:37

6M ago32:37

32:37

How does a young boy from Hawaii end up shaping the future of soccer talent in Northwest Arkansas? Meet Ryan Williams, a passionate soccer leader and former professional player, who shares his fascinating journey from learning the game at age three to making waves in the USL Championship. Ryan’s story is one of dedication and resilience, from train…

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Stoppage Time Special: The Growth and Future of Soccer in Northwest Arkansas 5:28

7M ago5:28

5:28

Join us for the Stoppage Time edition of the Pitch to Pro podcast as we dive into the inspiring transformation of soccer in Northwest Arkansas. Our guest, a seasoned coach, reminisces about the humble beginnings of just two soccer clubs in the region and the incredible growth to nine clubs today. You'll learn about the dedication and passion of you…

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Ep. 34 - From First-Generation Roots to Coaching Pioneer 28:30

7M ago28:30

28:30

Nelson Medina returns with more captivating tales from the pitch, expanding on his journey from a first-generation American rooting himself in San Diego to an esteemed soccer career with the Nomads, Oklahoma City University, and the Oklahoma City Slickers. As we sit down with Nelson, he opens up about the pivotal moments that steered him toward coa…

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Stoppage Time Special: The Tactical Evolution of American Soccer 6:51

7M ago6:51

6:51

Our latest Stoppage Time edition of the Pitch to Pro podcast features an illuminating conversation with a seasoned player and coach who has witnessed the remarkable growth of soccer in the United States. Ever wondered how the game transitioned from traditional formations like 4-4-2 to the intricate tactics we see today? Our guest dives into the shi…

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Ep. 33 - U.S. Youth World Cup Roots: A Former National Team Player’s Mission in NWA Soccer 33:41

7M ago33:41

33:41

Nelson Medina's soccer journey is nothing short of inspiring. As the Director of Coaching and Player Development at Arkansas Comets FC, Nelson joins us to share his unique experiences growing up as a Portuguese American in San Diego, playing with elite youth clubs, and representing the youth national team on the global stage. We'll uncover how his …

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Stoppage Time Special: Trends In Mixed-Use Developments 7:27

8M ago7:27

7:27

Discover how the world of sports is reshaping entertainment and hospitality landscapes in this captivating Stoppage Time edition of the Pitch to Pro podcast. Ever wondered how Sports Illustrated and major sports leagues are transforming the traditional boundaries with innovative resort experiences and mixed-use real estate developments? We're unpac…

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Ep. 32 - Sports Venue Development: The Battery, Titletown & Beyond 43:12

8M ago43:12

43:12

Discover the fascinating world where sports meet real estate with our esteemed guest, industry expert Josh Boren. Josh takes us on a journey through his career, from his pivotal experiences during the Great Financial Crisis to his collaboration with renowned sports architect Dan Meis. Now leading global business development at RCLCO, focusing on sp…

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Stoppage Time Special: The Impact of Playing Up in Youth Sports 8:32

8M ago8:32

8:32

Could the decision to have young athletes play up in age groups redefine their sports journey? Join us in this Stoppage Time edition of the Pitch to Pro podcast as we unravel the intricacies of this crucial subject. We promise to equip you with insights into whether playing up is truly beneficial for your child's development or if it’s a parent-dri…

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Ep. 31 - Youth Soccer Registration Reform 1:06:56

8M ago1:06:56

1:06:56

Ever wondered how youth soccer registration could impact a young athlete's development and future in the sport? Join us on the Pitch to Pro podcast as we engage in a thought-provoking conversation with Scott Marksberry, head coach of the U20 Academy boys and Director of Coaching for Sporting Arkansas. Together, we explore the proposed shift from a …

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Stoppage Time Special: The Resurgence of Ipswich Town and Rhode Island FC 8:20

9M ago8:20

8:20

Discover the electrifying world of soccer club culture and the passionate community that breathes life into it. This episode promises to take you on an exhilarating journey through the highs and lows of building a soccer community. Learn how we strategically launched a team even amidst stadium delays and how a partnership with Bryant University cre…

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Ep. 30 - Crafting a New Era for North American Soccer - Part 2 26:03

9M ago26:03

26:03

Can you imagine transforming an unused riverfront site into the sports and entertainment capital of Southern New England? Brett Johnson, the visionary owner of Rhode Island FC and Ipswich Town, shares his ambitious plans to do just that in Pawtucket, Rhode Island. Join us as Brett reveals the collaborative efforts with local government and the sign…

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Stoppage Time Special: Igniting Arkansas' Soccer Passion 7:56

9M ago7:56

7:56

At 33, Parker Dodson found himself lacing up soccer cleats for the first time, fueled by the excitement of a new team right in the heart of Arkansas. This week on the Stoppage Time edition of the Pitch to Pro podcast, we're celebrating the community's newfound passion for the beautiful game, thanks to the arrival of Ozark United FC. Together with o…

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Ep. 29 - Crafting a New Era for North American Soccer Pt. 1 31:02

9M ago31:02

31:02

Get ready to meet Brett Johnson, the visionary force behind Rhode Island FC and Ipswich Town in the Premier League. Brett gives us a front-row seat to his journey from the bustling streets of New York City to the vibrant soccer culture of London. He shares a compelling vision for the future of American soccer, highlighting the potential for the U.S…

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Stoppage Time Special: From Vision to Connection 8:23

10M ago8:23

8:23

Discover the true essence of community engagement and branding through the insightful experiences shared by our guest, Warren, who has navigated these waters multiple times. We promise you'll learn how mission, vision, and values can profoundly influence an organization's identity and resonate beyond corporate walls to genuinely connect with the he…

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Ep. 28 - Ozark United FC: The Story Behind the Brand 46:39

10M ago46:39

46:39

Discover the essence of community-driven soccer as Ozark United FC takes center stage in Northwest Arkansas. Join us for an electrifying conversation with special guests Brett Parker, Warren Smith, and Chris Martinovic as we walk you through our brand reveal party, which captivated nearly 700 attendees. This monumental event highlighted the vibrant…

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Stoppage Time Special: Bentonville's Soccer Story 8:51

10M ago8:51

8:51

Imagine moving from the bustling streets of Shanghai to the serene, charming town of Bentonville. Join us as our guests share their heartfelt stories of cultural adjustment and the joy they found in Bentonville’s welcoming community. From initial shocks to discovering a town teeming with diverse events and supportive residents, you'll hear personal…

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Stoppage Time Special: Building Future Soccer Stars in Arkansas 8:00

10M ago8:00

8:00

Get ready to uncover the heart and soul behind the next generation of soccer talent! This week on the Stoppage Time edition of Pitch to Pro, we're spotlighting the emotion, dedication, and raw potential witnessed during our recent three-day player identification and evaluation event. Hear firsthand how these young athletes not only showcased their …

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Ep. 27 - The Soccer Awakening in Arkansas 36:24

10M ago36:24

36:24

Parker Dodson's journey from the heart of traditional American sports territory in Arkansas to a passionate soccer fan is nothing short of fascinating. Growing up in a community where basketball, baseball, and football dominated, Parker's late blooming love for soccer stands out. He shares his early struggles with understanding the sport that wasn'…

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Stoppage Time Special: Crafting a Vibrant Future for Northwest Arkansas 7:46

11M ago7:46

7:46

Can a region experiencing rapid demographic shifts navigate the complexities of inclusive growth and sustainable urban planning effectively? Join us as we revisit this critical question in our latest episode, highlighting the transformative landscape of Northwest Arkansas. We unpack the region’s demographic evolution, where underrepresented minorit…

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Ep. 26 - From Tryouts to Triumph: USL Arkansas U20 Team 29:18

11M ago29:18

29:18

What happens when a community rallies to create a structured soccer pathway for its youth? Join us on Pitch to Pro as we welcome Scott Marksberry, the head coach for the U20 USL Arkansas Academy team, to uncover the burgeoning soccer scene in Northwest Arkansas. Scott sheds light on the region's success in nurturing young talent while also addressi…

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Stoppage Time Special: The Road to Our New Stadium 6:45

11M ago6:45

6:45

Curious about the massive undertaking of building a new stadium from the ground up? This Stoppage Time edition of the Pitch to Pro podcast promises to provide all the insights you need! Join us as we highlight our journey towards the ambitious 2026 goal, featuring compelling stories and unforgettable moments that capture the essence of our soccer c…

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Ep. 25 - Transfer Window: Inside the High-Stakes World of Soccer’s Transfer Market - Part 2 19:45

11M ago19:45

19:45

Ever wondered how soccer agents navigate the high-stakes world of player transfers? Find out as we unravel the complexities of negotiations, transfer fees, and buyout clauses in our latest episode. We promise to shed light on the pivotal role agents play in securing top deals for their clients, while also deciphering how these financial mechanisms …

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Stoppage Time Special: Sports Teams and Local Spirit with Warren Smith 7:55

12M ago7:55

7:55

Ever wondered how professional sports franchises can not only survive but thrive through challenging times? Today, we've got the answers straight from the source. Join us as Wes sits down with Warren Smith, the mastermind behind the success of USL Arkansas and other prominent sports teams. Warren's journey from a serendipitous entry into profession…