This episode features a discussion on how innovation and artificial intelligence are shaping the future of fairness and decision-making during the World Cup. Dr. Gonzalo Bravo talks with Juan Jose “Cheche” Vidal, a pioneer in the application of technology in the FIFA World Cup. He served as Vice President for Technology during the USA 1994 World Cup. A former NCAA and Olympian soccer player, he attended Boston University on athletic scholarship, earning a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and a master’s degree in Biomechanics and Technology Applied to Sports.

This episode features a behind-the-scenes look at media operations and communication strategies at the highest level of international sport. Dr. Gonzalo Bravo talks with Rob De Leede, a professor of public relations and communications at The Hague University of Applied Sciences in the Netherlands. He previously served as press officer for the Dutch National Team (1995–2004) as well as media officer for FIFA and UEFA. He has covered multiple FIFA World Cups and UEFA European Championships.

In this episode, Dr. Peter McGahey talks with Scott Snyder - the Senior Director of Sport Development for AYSO - American Youth Soccer Organization. Scott shares the importance of an athlete or child-centered approach to grassroots sports - the games belong to them. Scott discusses some of the challenges that the professionalization of grassroots youth sport poses and some strategies he’s implementing to positively focus this professionalism and lower barriers to access and participation.