What does it take to inspire the next generation of environmental leaders? In this episode, Steve Zakuani and Brad Evans sit down with Megan Karch, CEO of IslandWood, an innovative environmental education organization helping young people build meaningful connections with the natural world. Megan shares her journey from leading Seattle-based nonprofit FareStart to guiding IslandWood’s mission of creating transformative learning experiences for students, educators, and communities. Zak and Brad talk about the importance of access to nature, environmental stewardship, and how hands-on learning can shape not only future careers, but a lifelong commitment to caring for our planet.

Sounders FC Pod-Cast returns with a must-listen episode as hosts Steve Zakuani and Brad Evans sit down with Seattle Sounders Head Coach Brian Schmetzer for a wide-ranging, candid conversation.

Schmetzer takes listeners behind the scenes of last season’s Club World Cup and Leagues Cup, sharing stories and insights you won’t hear anywhere else. He opens up about his coaching journey — from his early days as an assistant to leading the Sounders from the top — and dives into the intense competition for starting spots across the current roster.

The conversation also spotlights Cristian Roldan, with Schmetzer praising his performances, leadership, and character, and explaining how those qualities have elevated his standing as a potential 2026 USMNT World Cup contributor. Plus, Schmetzer doesn’t shy away from tough moments, revealing why the playoff loss to Minnesota stands out to him as the most painful defeat in Sounders history.

Insightful, honest, and full of perspective — this is an episode Sounders fans won’t want to miss.

Hosts Steve Zakuani and Brad Evans bring you a special Behind the Shield edition of the Sounders FC Pod-Cast, featuring powerful stories of impact both on and off the pitch. First, they sit down with Dr. Ty Jones, Medical Director at Regence, who was honored as a Community Hero at a Sounders match last season for his dedication to serving public employees and their families. Then, Sounders midfielder Paul Arriola joins the show to reflect on his road back from the ACL injury he suffered last season in CONCACAF play against Cruz Azul, sharing insight into his recovery, mindset, and return to action. An episode that highlights resilience, community, and the heart of the club—don’t miss it.