Living Your mainelove: Hearts of Pine Founder Gabe Hoffman-Johnson's Inspiring Soccer Ride

In this episode of Living Your mainelove, Jen Millard sits down with Gabe Hoffman-Johnson, founder of Portland’s Hearts of Pine, to explore how a soccer club can become so much more than a team. From its grassroots beginnings to a sold-out first season, Gabe shares the story behind building a values-driven organization rooted in community, purpose, and place.Together, they dive into the power of sport as a catalyst for connection—touching on everything from Maine’s unique sense of identity and “provenance of place,” to the club’s explosive growth, community-first philosophy, and plans for a women’s team. The conversation also highlights the shared ethos between Hearts of Pine and Mainelove: sustainability, authenticity, and creating something that truly gives back.This episode is about more than soccer—it’s about building something meaningful, fostering belonging, and proving that when you lead with heart, people show up.