Today’s episode is a special one, because we’re doing a crossover with our sister podcast, Side Story Sports, where we dive into the behind-the-scenes moments and people who make sports happen.

We’re thrilled to welcome back Joe LaBue, who was with Charlotte FC as our President for the first three years and played a pivotal role in shaping the club from the ground up. Since then, Joe has transitioned to the University of Maryland, where he now serves as the Deputy Athletic Director and Chief Revenue Officer.

In this episode, we’ll hear from Joe about his journey, what it takes to build and run a club, and how his experiences at Charlotte FC are influencing his next chapter in college athletics.

X: JCLaBue

In this episode of the Charlotte FC Podcast, we sit down with Trent Slagle, Senior Communications Coordinator for Charlotte FC. From his roots in Sacramento and early work with Real Salt Lake to his role in Crown Legacy’s inaugural season, Trent has built a career centered on telling stories that matter. We dive into how he helps Charlotte FC stay visible in the community and in the media, the strategy behind campaigns like kit launches and impact reports, and what it takes to keep the club top of mind for fans and outlets across the city. Along the way, Trent reflects on sacrifices, mentors, and the moments that have shaped his journey in soccer communications.

Broadcaster Jessica Charman returns to the Charlotte FC Podcast with fresh insights and a new perspective from the MLS Season Pass booth. With Charlotte FC riding a historic win streak and NYCFC surging up the Eastern Conference table, Jess breaks down the tactics, key players, and storylines that make this matchup one of the most compelling of the season. From Wilfred Zaha’s impact in the attack to the rise of Idan Toklamati, from Maxi Moralez’s timeless influence to Matt Freese’s strong goalkeeping, no angle is left uncovered.

Jess also shares her personal journey—why she left the comfort of a secure role in Charlotte to bet on herself, how she earned her place calling MLS matches, and what it means to prove she belongs at the highest level of the sport.

Charlotte FC wants to be more than a soccer club. In its annual Community Impact Report, the team highlights programs that serve kids, families, and neighborhoods across the Carolinas. In this episode, we hear from Trent Slagle, who helps shape the report; CC Schott, who leads community engagement; and Sarah Garrison from Atrium Health, a key partner. Together, they share how camps, clinics, mini-pitches, unified teams, and powerful personal stories are creating a legacy that goes beyond the pitch.

Here is the report: https://www.charlottefootballclub.com/community/community-impact-report

Charlotte FC are chasing history with an eight-game unbeaten run and seven straight wins as they head to Gillette Stadium to face the New England Revolution. To help break it all down, we’re joined by former UNC Soccer NCAA Champion, U.S. Women’s National Team player, coach, and broadcaster Kacey White. With her unique blend of perspectives, Kacey dives into Charlotte’s consistency under Dean Smith, New England’s mentality in a must-win spot, the goalkeeper duel between Kristijan Kahlina and Matt Turner, and the difference-makers on both sides—from Carlos Gil to Charlotte’s wide threats like Vargas and Zaha. Plus, Kacey shares what it’s like working alongside Jessica Charman in the broadcast booth.

X and IG: @kaceydwhite

On this episode of the Charlotte FC Podcast, we sit down with midfielder Eryk Williamson to talk through the chapters of his career and life so far—from growing up in Alexandria, VA, to his development at Maryland and DC United’s academy, to his time in Portugal and Portland, and now his move to Charlotte. Eryk opens up about his personal style and love for sneakers, the influence of mentors like Miles Joseph, overcoming two ACL injuries, and why Charlotte’s culture and locker room made it the right place for his next step. Off the pitch, he shares his passions for coffee, movies, and life with his dog in a new city.

On this episode, we welcome back Andrew Wiebe—who joined us last fall to share his career journey and is now a key part of the Sunday Night Soccer crew alongside Jake Zivin and Taylor Twellman. Andrew helps us preview Charlotte FC’s clash with the New York Red Bulls, a matchup loaded with history, streaks, and plenty of tactical intrigue. We’re also joined by Logan Meyer from the Crown Cast to add some local perspective to a big night on MLS Season Pass.

On this episode, we’re joined by one of the most insightful voices in American soccer broadcasting—Ross Smith, MLS Season Pass Match Analyst. Known for his sharp tactical breakdowns, storytelling from his playing days, and years covering the league, Ross helps us preview a big Western Conference test: Charlotte FC hosting Real Salt Lake.

With both sides pushing for playoff position and fresh off results that could shift momentum, we dive into the key battles and storylines ahead. Ross breaks down:

• Why Real Salt Lake’s fluid attack can be so difficult to contain even with the Moonman.

• The strengths and risks of Charlotte’s mid-block against RSL’s movement

  Who plays the 10 for Charlotte?

  Can Charlotte continue for 6 straight wins?

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• You can watch Charlotte FC vs. Real Salt Lake this Saturday, live on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV.

  Follow on X: @RossSmith_20