The 1st Half Culture Show

Football almost ended for Charles Auguste.In this episode of The 1st Half Culture Show, the FC Supra du Québec midfielder opens up about the highs, setbacks, and turning points that shaped his journey — from Québec youth football and NCAA soccer to Houston, injuries, stepping away from the game, and finding unfinished business back home.Charles shares the reality behind the professional pathway, including the difficult moments nobody sees: a year-long injury recovery, questioning football entirely, and rebuilding confidence after feeling disconnected from the game.We also dive into:⚽ Growing up in Québec football culture⚽ The move to Creighton University and culture shock in the U.S.⚽ Recovering from a major injury⚽ Houston Dynamo and difficult career moments⚽ Why FC Supra felt like unfinished business⚽ Building a cinematic football content brand⚽ Why storytelling matters to athletes todayThis is a conversation about identity, setbacks, creativity, and finding your way back.⏱️ Video SegmentsEarly football beginnings and family influenceQuébec football development and coachingMoving to the U.S. and college football journeyMajor injury and one-year recoveryHouston and stepping away from footballJoining FC Supra and unfinished businessCreating football content and storytellingThe future of football and personal branding12 Questions rapid fire

From the academy at Newcastle United F.C. to Premier League nights and now life in MLS, Matty Longstaff joins The 1st Half Culture Show for an honest conversation about the highs and realities of professional football.Matty opens up about growing up in one of football’s most passionate cities, family influence, the pressure that comes with academy football, and his unforgettable debut goal against Manchester United F.C..We also dive into:⚽ Growing up in Newcastle football culture⚽ Academy life and family support⚽ The influence of his brother Sean Longstaff⚽ Moving from England to North America⚽ MLS vs European football culture⚽ Recovering from ACL injuries⚽ England, World Cup talk & football pressure⚽ Why supporters are everything to clubsWhether you're a Newcastle supporter, MLS fan, or simply love football stories, this episode dives into the mentality and journey behind the game.

Football doesn’t grow on the pitch alone — it grows through stories, voices, and community.In this episode of The 1st Half Culture Show, Karim Mehdi shares his journey from athletic therapist to becoming a rising voice in football media, covering the game where it lives — at the grassroots and community level.As host of On S’en Foot and commentator within Quebec’s football scene, Karim breaks down how media, storytelling, and digital platforms are helping shape the next era of the game in Canada.We dive into:Building a football media platform from scratchThe growth of Quebec’s football ecosystemThe role of storytelling in growing the sportBehind the scenes of FC Supra du QuébecTaking risks and creating your own path in footballThis is a conversation about culture, community, and why football is more than just a game.💬 “Football is more than a game… it’s a feeling.”

What does it really take to perform at the highest level — and stay there?In this episode of The 1st Half Culture Show, Laurent Ciman, former MLS Defender of the Year and current assistant coach at FC Supra du Québec, shares a raw and honest look into the mentality behind professional football.From competing in Europe’s top leagues and experiencing the Champions League and World Cup environments, to leading in Major League Soccer, Ciman breaks down the realities players don’t always talk about.We dive into:Why mentality separates good players from great onesHandling pressure, criticism, and failure at the highest levelThe role of discipline and team chemistryTransitioning from player to coachWhat defines a real football cultureThis is a conversation about leadership, resilience, and understanding the game beyond the pitch.

Step inside the world of Roman-style pizza with Richie Ourichian, founder of Segreta in Montreal. From his early days as a cobbler to becoming a master pizzaiolo, Richie shares his incredible journey, passion, and philosophy behind authentic pizza al taglio.Discover how 72–96 hour fermentation, high-hydration dough, and precision baking create crispy, airy, and flavorful Roman pizza. Richie also breaks down the real differences between Neapolitan, New York, and Roman-style pizza—and why he believes Roman pizza is the best.This episode dives into food culture, entrepreneurship, discipline, and the mindset needed to build a successful culinary brand.🔥 If you love pizza, food stories, and business journeys—this is a must-watch!

n this exclusive interview, former CF Montréal captain Patrice Bernier and entrepreneur Alexandre Kénol dive deep into football, community impact, and the future of Canadian soccer.From World Cup excitement to building opportunities for youth through the Patrice Bernier Foundation, this conversation explores how sport goes beyond the pitch.⚽ Topics covered:Canada’s rising stars & World Cup expectationsBuilding a legacy after professional footballThe impact of community-driven initiativesThe story behind the Patrice Bernier FoundationEntrepreneurship, events, and youth empowerment🌍 With the World Cup approaching, Bernier shares insights on players like Alphonso Davies and Jonathan David — and why Canadian soccer is entering a new era.🎟️ Support the cause, attend events, or donate to help empower the next generation.

Meet rising Canadian talent Chloe Minas, a defensive midfielder for the Montréal Roses, as she shares her incredible journey from Montreal to professional football in Sweden and back home.From her early days playing in Montreal to captaining at the University of Pittsburgh, Chloe built her path through hard work, resilience, and self-belief. She opens up about sending 100+ emails to coaches, creating her own highlight videos, and taking control of her career.Her professional journey took her to Sweden with Växjö DFF, where she experienced a completely different football culture before returning to Canada to join the Roses.Chloe also talks about:Recovering from a serious **ACL injuryThe difference between European and North American football cultureThe importance of fans and playing at home in MontrealHer mindset, discipline, and journey back strongerThis is more than football — it’s about resilience, growth, and chasing your dream.

Musician, sports fan, and community advocate PY Letellier joins the show to talk about the powerful connection between music, football, and community.Growing up in the small Québec town of La Tabatière, PY spent his childhood hunting, fishing, and playing hockey before eventually touring the world as the bass player for The Damn Truth.In this interview, he shares how sports shaped his life, why fans are essential to both music and football, and how community support helped him chase his dreams.PY also talks about supporting Goal Initiatives Foundation, his love for football clubs like Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City F.C., and seeing legends like David Silva play live.From small-town roots to global rock tours, this conversation is about passion, perseverance, and giving back to the community that supported you.“You're better off failing at what you love than succeeding at anything else.”

Montreal football culture runs deep — from Italian family Sundays to the ultras of Europe.In this powerful interview, Anthony Corneli, assistant coach at FC Supérieur, joins TSN 690 to share his incredible football journey. From growing up in Montreal’s Italian community to coaching in Trinidad’s military club system, this is a story about passion, resilience, and building football culture the right way.Anthony opens up about:- Starting coaching at just 16 years old- Working in Trinidad with Defense Force FC in the Trinidad Premier League- The importance of ultras and supporter culture in Europe- Growing up supporting Juventus FC- Experiencing Lazio vs Roma & Derby d’Italia live- Why local identity matters for FC Supérieur - Building a winning football environment in QuebecFrom Montreal to the Caribbean, from Serie A passion to Canadian Premier League ambition — this is football culture at its core.⏱️ Video Segments (Chapters)0:00 – Italian Roots & Montreal Football CultureFamily influence and falling in love with the game.2:45 – Choosing Coaching Over PlayingStarting at 16 and never giving up.5:30 – The Grind: Restaurant Life to Full-Time Football9:58 – Coaching in Trinidad 🇹🇹Working with a military-backed club in the Trinidad Premier League.15:47 – Juventus, Ultras & European Fan CultureWhy supporters are everything in football.18:34 – Derby Experiences in ItalyLazio vs Roma & Juventus vs Inter stories.22:24 – The Vision for FC SupérieurBuilding a 100% local Quebec football identity.23:29 – Rapid Fire QuestionsFavorite film, athlete, club & more.#FCSuperieur #MontrealSoccer #CanadianSoccer #SoccerCulture #Juventus #SerieA #ultrasound #footballpassion #cpl #CoachingJourney

Canadian soccer is entering a defining era — on the field and behind the scenes.In this episode of The 1st Half Culture Show, Laura Armstrong, Vice President of Communications & Business Integration at Canadian Soccer Media & Entertainment, joins us in studio to break down the rebranding of CSME, the evolution of the Canadian soccer ecosystem, and what this moment means with the World Cup on home soil.A former Toronto Star journalist who covered major milestones including the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup and Canada’s men’s qualification for 2022, Laura shares her journey from newsroom to executive leadership — and why storytelling, media rights, and strategic alignment are essential to growing the game nationally.We dive into:The CSME rebrand and realignment with Canada SoccerBuilding a “soccer content ecosystem” in CanadaBundesliga & WSL media rights strategyThe growth of women’s football and 95,000 at WembleyWhy CPL moments matter culturallyJournalism lessons that shaped her leadershipWhy football is more than sport — it’s familyIf you care about where Canadian soccer is headed — this episode is essential listening.

Midfielder Felicia Roy joins The First Half to share her journey to professional football, her rise with the Montreal Roses, and the rapid growth of women’s soccer in Canada through the NSL.From dreaming of becoming a professional at a young age, developing in the CF Montréal Academy, competing at the collegiate level with Champlain College, and breaking through in League1 Québec, Felicia opens up about discipline, mentality, and what it truly takes to succeed at the pro level.She also reflects on the impact of supporters, building chemistry in a brand-new league, balancing football and education, and inspiring the next generation of Canadian women footballers.⏱️ Video Segments (Chapters)00:00 – Dreaming of Becoming a Pro00:45 – Introduction: Felicia Roy & the Montreal Roses02:18 – What the NSL Means for Women’s Football in Canada03:20 – Team Chemistry in a New League04:12 – Supporters, Fans & Matchday Energy05:13 – Football Roots & Development Pathway06:08 – Expectations for Season Two07:30 – Key Matches & Rivalries08:09 – Grassroots Football & Youth Development09:21 – CF Montréal Academy Experience11:18 – Balancing School & Professional Football12:28 – Community Impact & Representation14:05 – Overcoming Challenges as a Pro Athlete16:00 – Best Performance & Career Highlights16:30 – Quick Fire Questions with Felicia Roy#FeliciaRoy #MontrealRoses #WomensFootball #NSL#CanadianSoccer #WomensSoccerCanada #ProFootballer#CFMontreal #SoccerInterview #WomenInSports#FootballJourney #NextGenFootball #SoccerCulture

⚽ From Laval to the Pro GameSean Rea shares his journey from growing up in Laval to signing for his boyhood club, CF Montréal. From kicking a ball around the backyard to making his MLS debut, Rea reflects on what it means to represent home at the highest level.🔥 Life Lessons From the PitchRea opens up about the realities of professional football — including a rare moment of being subbed off just minutes after coming on. He explains how tough moments shape mentality, resilience, and long-term growth in the pro game.🏆 Breakthrough Moments & ConfidenceWinning the CPL U21 Canadian Player of the Year during his loan spell with Valour FC marked a turning point. Rea discusses consistency, discipline, and what it takes to perform over an entire season as a young professional.👥 Fans, Community & Quebec FootballThe importance of supporters, community involvement, and building football culture in Quebec takes center stage. With the launch of FC Supra and CPL expansion, Rea highlights why local talent and fan connection matter more than ever.🌍 World Cup Dreams & Football IdentityFrom supporting Canada on the global stage to sharing thoughts on World Cup contenders, Rea talks about football identity, inspiration, and why the sport remains life itself.#SeanRea #CanadianSoccer #QuebecFootball #CFMontreal #CanadianPremierLeague #CPL #FootballCulture #ProFootballer #SoccerJourney #FootballLife

From obsession to silverware, this is the story of a player who lived and breathed the game. David Choiniere joins us in studio to talk about his journey through the Canadian Premier League, winning multiple championships with Forge FC, and his return to Quebec with FC Supra. David opens up about becoming obsessed with turning pro, the sacrifices required to make it, the importance of academies, supporter culture in the CPL, playing against world-class players like Mo Salah, surviving the altitude at Estadio Azteca, and overcoming major injury setbacks.We also dive into the excitement around a new club project in Quebec, World Cup dreams, and what it truly means when players say: football is life.#DavidChouiniere #CanadianPremierLeague #CPL #FCSupra #ForgeFC #QuebecFootball #CanadianSoccer #SoccerJourney #FootballMentality #TSN690

Football is more than a game.It’s music, food, fashion, community — and the stories that connect it all.The 1st Half is where football culture lives.From intimate conversations with artists, chefs, musicians, and athletes, to street-level voices in Football in the City, this channel explores how the game shapes — and is shaped by — culture around the world.Featuring guests like James Bay, George Stroumboulopoulos, Enter Shikari, Antonio Park, and voices from Team Canada including Mathieu Choinière, Zorhan Bassong, and Nathan Saliba — this is football told through real experiences, not hot takes.With World Cup 2026 coming to North America, the game is about to get bigger than ever. And we’ll be right here — documenting the culture, the people, and the moments that define this era.🎙️ New conversations.🌍 Global voices.⚽️ Football as a way of life.Subscribe now and take your seat for what’s coming next.#The1stHalf #FootballIs #ACertainStyleOfLife #WorldCup2026 #FootballCulture #SoccerLifestyle #CANMNT

Quebec has a different football mentality, and that mindset is helping shape the future of the game in Canada.In this in-depth episode of The First Half, we sit down with Kyt Selaidopoulos, Assistant Coach and Director of Youth Football at Forge FC, Head Coach of Canada’s National Futsal Team, and one of the most respected football minds in the country.Kyt shares insight on the culture of football in Quebec, the evolution of the Canadian Premier League, the impact of the 2026 World Cup, and what it truly takes to build winning programs, from youth development to the professional level.From his playing days with Montreal Impact to building championship culture at Forge FC, this conversation covers mentality, leadership, preparation, and long-term growth in Canadian football.

In this exclusive in-studio interview, FC Supra head coach Nick Rosati shares his journey, philosophy and vision ahead of the club’s 2026 Canadian Premier League debut.From starting on the sideline at 17 to learning from the NFL, NBA and hockey, Rosati explains why humility, ego management and man management are at the heart of his approach. He breaks down how to build a winning culture from day one, how to develop players the right way and what the growth of the Canadian Premier League means for the future of the game.⚽ The 1st Half Culture Show with Paul Desbaillets.Watch the full video here and listen wherever you get your podcasts.#The1stHalf #acertainstyleoflife #footballis #NickRosati #FCSupra #CanadianPremierLeague #CPL #CanadianSoccer #SportsLeadership #FootballCulture

From Belgium’s academy system to the World Cup stage — resilience defined.Team Canada defender Zorhan Bassong, now with Sporting Kansas City in MLS, joins Paul Desbaillets for a powerful conversation about sacrifice, identity, and rebuilding a career across continents.Bassong opens up about:leaving Canada at 14 to pursue elite development in Belgiumnavigating the challenges of European football as a teenager abroadfighting through setbacks in Romania and finding his way back in MLSearning a national team recall after four yearswhy mindset and gratitude shape every part of his journeyand what the rise of North American football means before World Cup 2026⚽ The 1st Half Culture ShowPresented by Breville in collaboration with evenko and CULTMTL.Watch the full video here & listen wherever you get your podcasts.#The1stHalf #acertainstyleoflife #footballis #ZorhanBassong #TeamCanada #SportingKC #MLS #CanadaSoccer #WorldCup2026 #Breville #NorthAmericanFootball #FootballCulture #Resilience #SportsMindset

From sleeping in an abandoned church to sharing the pitch with Didier Drogba — this is the powerful, emotional, and inspiring true story of Novello Yoseke, a refugee turned professional footballer.Born in South Sudan, raised in a refugee camp in Egypt, and sponsored to Canada, Novello’s story is one of resilience, sacrifice, and passion. He went from playing barefoot to representing South Sudan’s National Team in World Cup and AFCON qualifiers, and later became a coach and head scout after a career with CF Montréal (Montreal Impact).In this exclusive in-studio interview, Novello opens up about:His journey from war-torn South Sudan to professional footballHow he overcame poverty and homelessnessPlaying alongside football legends like Didier DrogbaThe emotional moment he touched a real soccer ball for the first timeHis mission to inspire the next generation through coaching🔥 Watch the full episode to discover how determination and faith can turn pain into purpose.

From the backyard to the big stage.Team Canada and CF Montréal midfielder Mathieu Choinière joins The 1st Half Culture Show for a special Breville collaboration ahead of the Canada vs Ecuador friendly on November 12.He opens up about his journey from Montreal’s academy to the national team, the lessons he learned from multi-sport training, and why “hard work beats talent” has guided every step of his career.⚽ The 1st Half Culture Show — Presented by Breville in collaboration with evenko and CULTMTL.Watch the full video here & listen wherever you get your podcasts.#The1stHalf #acertainstyleoflife #footballis #MathieuChoiniere #TeamCanada #CFMontreal #CanadaSoccer #Breville #evenko #CULTMTL #FootballCulture #CanadianSoccer

From the streets of Stuttgart to the spotlight in Montreal.CF Montréal striker Prince Owusu joins Paul Desbaillets to talk about his journey — from Germany’s academy system to finding purpose, perseverance, and family through football.The Guinean-German forward opens up about his early days in Stuttgart’s academy, lessons from Europe, and how he became one of CF Montréal’s most exciting players — finishing his first season with 17 goals across all competitions.⚽ The 1st Half Culture Show with Paul Desbaillets — new episodes every Wednesday.Watch the full video here & listen wherever you get your podcasts.#The1stHalf #acertainstyleoflife #footballis #PrinceOwusu #CFMontreal #Bundesliga #Stuttgart #FootballCulture #SoccerPodcast #MLS #CanadianSoccer

From kitchens to curveballs, food and football are never far apart.Chef Stephen Marcone, owner of Bistro Amerigo and longtime Roma supporter, joins Paul Desbaillets to talk about cooking, culture, and the Italian soul of Montreal.From his journey through Italy’s kitchens to opening Café Figata, Marcone shares stories of football fandom, family, and building restaurants that bring people together.⚽ The 1st Half Culture Show with Paul Desbaillets Watch the full video here & listen wherever you get your podcasts.#The1stHalf #acertainstyleoflife #footballis #ChefStephenMarcone #BistroAmerigo #CafeFigata #Roma #ItalianCuisine #MontrealRestaurants #FootballCulture #ASRoma #ItalianFood #Montreal

From Miami to Manchester, the football world never sleeps.Paul Desbaillets unpacks a wild week:- Lionel Messi signs on with Inter Miami until 2028, a deal that could redefine MLS.- A full-blown manager shuffle as Ange Postecoglou, Sean Dyche, Nuno Espirito Santo and Graham Potter all switch seats.- MLS and Apple drop Season Pass fees for the playoffs to make the game more accessible.- And UEFA eyes a €5.9 billion Champions League deal with Netflix, Disney and Amazon.

From Miami to Swansea, last week in football culture has everything. Paul Desbaillets breaks down how Beckham’s Inter Miami is becoming England’s 2026 World Cup base, why Snoop Dogg and Martha Stewart now own a piece of Swansea City, and how Ed Sheeran ended up on the Barça shirt.He wraps with the incredible story of Cape Verde, the island nation of just 525 000 people qualifying for the World Cup, proof that passion always beats the odds.⚽ One-Man Midfield, new every week.#The1stHalf #acertainstyleoflife #footballis #footballculture #WorldCup2026 #Beckham #InterMiami #SwanseaCity #MarthaStewart #SnoopDogg #FCBarcelona #EdSheeran #CapeVerde #FootballNews

From weddings to the Wu-Tang afterparty, and now the borough ballot. Jason “Jace” Dery, better known as Monsieur Notre Dame, joins The 1st Half to talk about community, creativity, and the real meaning of giving back.An entrepreneur, entertainer, and now political candidate for Montreal’s Sud-Ouest borough with Futur Montréal, Jace opens up about his journey from raising over $25K for Sun Youth to spinning records for Wu-Tang and building a business that connects people across the city.It’s a conversation about purpose, music, football, and the power of showing up for your community.⚽ The 1st Half Culture Show with Paul Desbaillets, new episodes every Wednesday.Watch the full video here & listen wherever you get your podcasts.#The1stHalf #acertainstyleoflife #footballis #Jace #MonsieurNotreDame #Montreal #Community #WuTangClan #FuturMontreal #SunYouth #GoalInitiatives #FootballCulture #MontrealStories

From the streets of Cameroon to the Canadian national team, Ali Gerba’s story is pure football culture.Paul Desbaillets sits down with the former striker to talk about his rise from humble beginnings, his time in Europe and MLS, and why he believes Canadian football is still just getting started.Gerba opens up about his foundation work, his training centre Complete Striker, and the resilience that shaped his career , on and off the pitch.⚽ The 1st Half Culture Show with Paul Desbaillets : new episodes every Wednesday.Watch the full video here & listen wherever you get your podcasts.#The1stHalf #acertainstyleoflife #footballis #AliGerba #CompleteStriker #FootballCulture #CanadianSoccer #MontrealFootball #SoccerLife #GoalInitiatives

This week on One-Man Midfield, Paul Desbaillets dives into some wild headlines that hit deeper than just the pitch:💰 Cristiano Ronaldo becomes football’s first billionaire player — $1.4B net worth and counting🏟️ Manchester United may be changing hands… again. Rumors suggest a Saudi sale in the works🐐 World Cup mascots unveiled: Maple the Moose (Canada), Zazú the Jaguar (Mexico), and Clutch the Bald Eagle (USA)🌎 20 of 48 teams are already locked for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including Canada, USA, Mexico, and more🔥 Just Paul. No guest. Just the culture, the chaos, and the real talk.🎥 New drops every Tuesday. Subscribe to The 1st Half Culture Show for the solo segment you didn’t know you needed.#The1stHalf #OneManMidfield #FootballIs #CristianoRonaldo #ManUnitedSale #FIFA2026 #SoccerBusiness #WorldCupMascots #MapleTheMoose #SaudiFootballTakeover #GlobalGame

What happens when a football-loving, Tottenham-supporting local runs for city council in one of Montreal’s most dynamic boroughs?We sat down with Shane Thompson, candidate for city councillor in the Sud-Ouest (Little Burgundy, St-Henri, Griffintown & Pointe-St-Charles), to talk about the intersection of football and politics — and why he believes the beautiful game builds better communities.In this episode:Growing up in MTL as a Spurs fanFootball as a unifier in urban lifeWhat makes the Southwest so culturally richShane’s plans for more public sports spacesThe role of football in mental health, youth identity & inclusion📥 Watch the full convo now — new episodes every Thursday.#The1stHalf #FootballIs #MTLPolitics #SouthwestMontreal #ShaneThompson #SpursFan #SoccerAndSociety #FootballForAll

The First Half Culture Show is back, now with two drops every week.🎙️ Wednesdays: Football Culture with Paul Desbaillets🎤 Thursdays: Special Guest ConversationsThis week’s solo drop? Paul’s sounding off on the biggest stories in the game right now:FC Supra shaking up Quebec footballEA’s $55 billion takeover 💰$6,730 World Cup Final tickets — yep, that’s real 🎟️Canada’s historic FIFA ranking 🏆Early-season chaos in the Premier League 🔄New football voices emerging in Quebec 🎤CFM’s rebuild & why hope still lives ⚽Real Madrid gets name-dropped in a Taylor Swift track 🤯📣 No guest. Just Paul. Just soccer culture. 🎥 Watch now & subscribe to The 1st Half Culture Show.#The1stHalf #FootballIs #FCSupra #EASportsFC #CanadaSoccer #WorldCup2026 #PremierLeagueDrama #MontrealFootball

From early-morning training to late-night recovery, CFL pro Tyrell Richards ( Alouettes de Montreal ) opens up about the realities of life as a professional athlete—how sleep, food, mindset, and community shape everything from performance to personal growth.Presented by Birckenstock in support of the GOAL Initiatives Foundation, this special episode is about more than just football, it’s about building a lifestyle around wellness, resilience, and giving back.🧠 What does recovery really look like for a CFL player?🍽️ How does food fuel performance and community?🏘️ Why does community matter now more than ever?🎙️ Recorded at Entre Deux in Montreal’s NDG, this episode blends sport, lifestyle, and culture in the way only The 1st Half can.🔔 Subscribe for more interviews with athletes, artists, chefs & cultural leaders.#TyrellRichards #Footballplayer #CFL #RecoveryMatters #Birkenstock #The1stHalf #ACertainStyleOfLife #FootballCulture #MentalHealthInSports #MontrealAthletes #GoalInitiatives #LifestyleOfAnAthlete #Football #Soccer #gunners #arsenalfans #montrealalouettes

6’7” forward Abdul Mohamed of the Montréal Alliance joins The 1st Half Culture Show to talk hoops, heritage, and how football culture shaped him off the court.From growing up in a Somali-Canadian household to playing pro basketball across Germany, England, and Norway, Abdul unpacks how sport built his identity, and why football has always been part of his story.We dig into African influence in the global game, how football showed up in every country he played in, and why the streets—not the system, are still the best academy.

Canadian media icon and cultural connector George Stroumboulopoulos joins The 1st Half Culture Show presented by Breville, in collaboration with evenko and CULTMTL, for a no-holds-barred conversation about football, music, media, and community.We talk Spurs heartbreak and Bob Marley, why football supporters aren’t just “fans,” how stadiums tell stories, and what it means to live out your values in a system that doesn’t always care. George also drops gems on storytelling, Canada’s evolving identity, and why kindness still matters—even in the cutthroat world of sports and media.It’s thoughtful, raw, and as real as Strombo himself.👉 Watch the full video here & listen wherever you get your podcasts.#FootballCulture #GeorgeStroumboulopoulos #Spurs #SoccerCommunity #ACertainStyleOfLife #FootballIs

Canadian alt-pop artist Emi Jean joins The 1st Half Culture Show to talk about her journey from singing opera at age 7 in Quebec bars to touring Asia, going solo, and performing on the grid at the Canadian Formula 1 Grand Prix.We dive into her love of football, her Osheaga 2025 stage debut, why storytelling is at the heart of her music, and how discipline and teamwork connect athletes and musicians. Emi also opens up about staying grounded, the pressure of performing, and why her fans feel like teammates.It’s an inspiring look at what it means to stay authentic and keep growing, on stage and off.👉 Watch the full video here & listen wherever you get your podcasts.

In this week’s episode of The 1st Half Culture Show, we sit down with Italian-Canadian independent artist Gion, a rising voice in North America’s alt-pop and R&B scene. From charting with “Je Ne Veux Personne” to consulting for major brands, Gion shares how football culture shaped his creative outlook, why identity matters in his music, and what it means to tell authentic stories through art.If you’ve ever felt the connection between football, music, and community — this one’s for you.🎧 Watch and listen now on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.📲 Subscribe & hit the bell so you never miss an episode!#FootballCulture #MusicAndFootball #NorthAmericanFootball #IndependentArtist #SoccerInspiration #The1stHalf #ACertainStyleOfLife

Fabio & Dan of Bossa MTL join The 1st Half Culture Show to share how their modern Italian café and market became a cultural landmark in Montreal. From their fresh take on Italian street food to building a warm, vibrant community hub, they talk about staying authentic while creating something truly their own.We get into what Italian culture means today, why football and family go hand in hand, and how Montreal’s food scene continues to inspire their work.🎧 Watch the full episode now — new episodes every Wednesday on YouTube and Spotify. Listen wherever you get your podcasts.#BossaMTL #ItalianFood #MontrealEats #FootballCulture #MontrealCulture #ACertainStyleOfLife #The1stHalf

From Romania to Montreal, Robert Rositoiu has dedicated his career to developing young football talent and shaping the future of the game in Canada.As head coach of the Montreal Roses FC, Robert talks about winning in Ligue1 Québec, his time at CF Montréal, and what it takes to build players who can compete on the international stage.⚽ “Coaching is more than tactics — it’s building people, not just players.”🎧 Watch the full episode every Wednesday on YouTube & Spotify. Listen wherever you get your podcasts.#MontrealRosesFC #CanadianSoccer #RobertRositoiu #The1stHalf #FootballIs #ACertainStyleOfLife #Ligue1Québec #SoccerCoaching #CFMontreal

From the markets of Haiti to the kitchens of Montreal, Chef Paul Toussaint has never stopped bringing culture, community, and soul to the table. In this week's episode, Paul opens up about why he chose food over football, his deep love for the Haitian community, and how he built a BBQ concept inspired by Texas smokehouses and Caribbean soul.🔥 “When you cook, you should do it with the same love you’d show your family.”⚽ “I love football—but food took me.”🎶 “There’s always a party somewhere in our culture, and I wanted my restaurant to reflect that.”From stories of cooking for footballers to his passion for loud music and soulful vibes, Chef Paul is living proof that food and football are two languages of love.🎥 New episodes every Wednesday on YouTube & Spotify🎧 Audio available wherever you get your podcastsSubscribe to never miss a dish—or a goal.#ChefPaulToussaint #MontrealFoodScene #FootballCulture #CaribbeanCuisine #HaitianCommunity #FoodAndFootball #BarbecueVibes #The1stHalf #ACertainStyleOfLife #MontrealEats #SoccerVibes #ChefLife

🎭⚽ From house league heroics to Netflix screen time — Montreal-based actor, writer, and sketch comic Nir Guzinski joins The 1st Half Culture Show to talk football, acting, and how the city shaped his creative hustle.He opens up about:Getting his start in football with the NDG PanthersDealing with setbacks, including the team not making Triple-AHis dad secretly watching games after being asked not to comeScoring the winning goal in high school and other unforgettable momentsWhy acting is a grind, how the content creator world has shifted, and what he’s chasing next#FootballCulture #MontrealCreatives #TSN690 #The1stHalf #SoccerLife #ActorGrind #NDGPanthers #FutbolStories #SketchComedy #CanadianCreatives #FootballAndLife #ACertainStyleOfLife

From university parties to Paris Fashion Week, Schuyler Mota has helped shape Canada’s experiential marketing scene. As President and Co-Founder of CRUEL, he’s led cultural campaigns and branded activations that stretch across Canada and beyond.In this episode of The 1st Half on TSN690, Schuyler sits down with Paul Desbaillets to talk about building CRUEL from the ground up, launching Sports Illustrated’s Circuit Series during F1 Weekend in Montreal, and growing up with football in his DNA. With roots in Portugal and a love for culture, creativity, and community, Schuyler brings a unique perspective to how sports and lifestyle intersect.📻 Catch the full conversation now and subscribe for more culture-driven football content across North America!🔗 New episodes drop every Friday on YouTube & Spotify🎧 Stream on all major podcast platforms.#CRUEL #TSN690 #The1stHalf #FootballCulture #F1Montreal #ExperientialMarketing #FootballIsCulture #ACertainStyleOfLife #Portugal #worldcup2026 #sportsillustrated

🇨🇦⚽ From Wigan to CF Montréal, Tom Pearce shares the ride: growing up near Liverpool, switching academies, getting capped for England, and embracing the poutine life.In this exclusive sit-down, Tom reflects on culture shock, surviving relegation, and how Montreal is reshaping his game. From Full English breakfasts to playing in the Toulon Tournament, this convo runs deep.Plus, we hit him with the fan-favorite "12 Questions"—his takes on fashion, stress, and why his younger brother is his bodyguard.Watch the full interview now. Subscribe to catch more from the heart of football culture.#TomPearce #CFMontreal #MLS #FootballCulture #EnglandU21 #LiverpoolFC #The1stHalf #ACertainStyleOfLife #footballislife #evertonfc #leedsunited

Rocco Placentino’s story is a journey through passion, grit, and grassroots football power. From playing professionally in Italy to becoming Technical Director at CS Saint-Laurent, Rocco is now helping rewrite Canadian soccer's trajectory—one player, one pitch at a time.In this episode of The 1st Half Culture Show with Paul Desbaillets on TSN 690, Rocco shares what it was like playing in truffle towns in Italy, how missing a penalty in a promotion final shaped him, and why local moments—like Saint-Laurent’s fairytale match against Toronto FC—mean more than anyone can imagine.He talks openly about player development, mental toughness, honouring mentors like Jason Di Tullio, and what the 2026 World Cup means for Canada’s next generation.📍 Watch the full conversation and find out how local legends like Rocco are fueling the fire of football culture in North America.#RoccoPlacentino #CanadianSoccer #MontrealSoccer #SaintLaurentSC #TSN690 #The1stHalf #GrassrootsFootball #SoccerStories #WorldCup2026 #FootballIsCulture #ACertainStyleOfLife

This week, Paul Desbaillets sits down with Fred and Marco — the beloved faces behind Montreal’s Satay Brothers. From slinging Southeast Asian street food at the Atwater Market to becoming culinary legends on Notre-Dame Street, the boys dish out their origin stories and how football has been a constant thread in their journey.They talk about the multicultural roots of their football passion, the Impact players who used to swing by, and how food, football, and good vibes built a lasting community around their kitchens.#SatayBrothers #MontrealEats #SingaporeanStreetFood #FootballCulture #The1stHalf #TSN690 #iHeartRadio #AtwaterMarket #NotreDameStreet #CulinaryJourney #FCChinatown #SoccerAndFood #MontrealRestaurants #StreetFoodCanada #FoodieMontreal

This week, Paul Desbaillets sits down with Emilio Zaga Mendez, the Senior Branding Manager at evenko and the creative force behind Canada's premier Latin music festival, Fuego Fuego. From his Peruvian roots and football heritage to shaping the visual identity of major festivals like OSHEAGA, Emilio shares his journey of blending culture, sport, and music into unforgettable experiences.Discover how his uncle, Nolberto Solano, a former player for Newcastle United and West Ham, influenced his passion for football and branding. Emilio also delves into the challenges and triumphs of bringing Latin music to the forefront of Canada's festival scene.TSN🎧 Tune in to explore the intersection of football, music, and cultural identity.

In this episode of The 1st Half Culture Show, comedian and reality TV alum Kevin Lapierre shares how his path from Occupation Double South Africa and Big Brother Célébrités led him to a growing stand-up comedy career.Kevin opens up about his early days working bars, his influences, and how his time in South Africa wasn’t just about reality TV—it also included an unforgettable football experience at Cape Town Stadium. Plus, he tells a wild story about getting too close to AS Roma ultras at the Stadio Olimpico.We also talk about why giving back matters to him, his connection to community as a GOAL Initiatives ambassador, and how comedy helps him tell the stories that matter.#kevinlapierre #standupcomedy #comedianlife #occupationdouble #bigbrothercelebrites #montrealcomedy #asroma #footballculture #romahooligans #canadiancomedy #comedienquebec #acertainstyleoflife #footballis #communitymatters #TSN690 #iheartradio #goalinitiatives

From the Streets of Paris to Football Glory & Mental Health AdvocacyThis week on The 1st Half Culture Show, we sit down with Hassoun Camara, former CF Montréal defender turned speaker, entrepreneur, and TV personality. In this raw and revealing conversation, Hassoun talks about the hustle of trying to make it in Europe, the emotional highs of playing in the CONCACAF Final at Azteca, and the lowest point in his career when he had to rebuild from injury and self-doubt. He opens up about mental health, his mother’s sacrifices, and his mission to give back through youth coaching and conferences.📌 “If I don’t put my leg, it’s gonna be a goal. I knew I was going to break something… but I did it anyway.”Camara reminds us that football isn’t just a game—it’s a reflection of life, sacrifice, and community. A Montreal icon both on and off the pitch, his story is one of perseverance, purpose, and passion.🟢 Watch the full interview now! 🎧 New Episodes Every Wednesday | Live Fridays at 6 PM EST on TSN690

Chef Antonio Park returns to The 1st Half Culture Show to talk food, football, and feeding the world’s elite athletes. From cooking for the X-Men to AC Milan players, Washington Capitals, Bruins, Montreal Canadiens, Checo Perez, PK Suban, Thierry Henry, Gabriel Diallo, Alexis Galarneau, Nick Suzuki , Alex Albon and international A-List Celebrities to his love for Tottenham Hotspur and his Argentina football roots, this is a conversation that serves flavor and fire. He shares how trust is everything in the kitchen, how he balances high standards with creativity, and why his Montreal flagship, Park, is more than just a restaurant—it’s his way of connecting with people one plate at a time.🗣️ "I might not know their names, but I know what they like—and that’s what matters."Park also gets real about evolving as a chef, parenting, finding peace in cooking, and why making people feel something through food is everything.#AntonioPark #TottenhamHotspur #WorldCup2026 #MontrealRestaurants #MichelinChef #AsianFusion #MontrealEats #FootballCulture #SoccerPodcast #FineDining #ChefLife #AthleteNutrition #MontrealFoodScene #CulinaryArts #KitchenTalk #SpursFans #BehindTheScenes #MontrealChefs #FootballLifestyle

This week on The 1st Half Culture Show, former CF Montréal fan favorite and current Columbus Crew veteran Evan Bush joins Paul Desbaillets via call-in for an honest look at life during and after MLS. A 17-year professional, Evan shares deeply personal reflections on overcoming multiple injuries, his transition into front-office roles, and what football has taught him about resilience, identity, and community.From the heartbreak of missing the CONCACAF Champions League Final due to a yellow card to the pride of lifting the MLS Cup later in his career, Evan’s journey offers a powerful glimpse behind the gloves.⚽️ “I’m not sure I even understood what that moment would mean to me emotionally…”🎧 12 Questions segment starts at 30:28TSN Listeners — Tune in Fridays at 6PM EST on TSN690 MTL or stream on iHeartRadio Canada.📺 Full episode available now on YouTube. Listen wherever you get your podcasts.

"If I did well, I was supposed to. If I played bad… how could you be this bad? When your dad's that guy and your brother's this guy." — Bradley Wright-PhillipsIn this exclusive Breville-featured episode of The 1st Half Culture Show, Paul Desbaillets sits down with MLS legend and football royalty Bradley Wright-Phillips.Presented by Breville in collaboration with evenko and CULTMTLFrom growing up in one of England’s most iconic football families, to carving his own legacy in MLS with the New York Red Bulls, BWP opens up about the real pressures of being a “Wright,” the highs and devastating lows of his career, and why mental health and joy in the game matter more than ever.We dive into what it felt like to miss two penalties in one game, what the Club World Cup means for MLS, the future of youth football in North America, and why retiring a jersey in soccer still blows his mind.📍 This one is for football heads, future athletes, and anyone chasing their own version of greatness.

This week on The 1st Half Culture Show, host Paul Desbaillets sits down with Danny Marinelli—co-owner of the beloved Marinelli Brothers Café and the face behind Montreal’s official AS Roma supporters hub.From a legendary family-run business rooted in Italian hospitality to unforgettable moments like seeing Chiellini and Bonucci walk into his restaurant during Grand Prix weekend, Danny opens up about the realities of running a café in today’s ultra-competitive market, staying true to football fandom, and why he refused to meet his idol, Francesco Totti.💥 Best Quote:"The DJ played a Lazio anthem at a Roma wedding... chaos erupted. That’s when I became a fan."📍 Dive into family, football, food, and what it means to create a place where culture and community collide in Little Italy, Montreal.🎧 Full episode available now exclusively on YouTube & Spotify.🎙️ New episodes every Wednesday.📻 Live Fridays at 6 PM EST on TSN690 Montreal or the iHeartRadio Canada app.

On this episode of The 1st Half Culture Show, Massimo Lecas shares his journey from launching Buonanotte in 1991 to shaping Montreal’s food and nightlife scene for over 30 years. We dive into his vision of blending food, entertainment, and football culture—hosting football legends like Alessandro Nesta, Andrea Pirlo, Paul Pogba, and more."We feed you, but we also entertain you. It’s about creating an experience, not just serving food," Massimo reflects on his career.We also discuss how Gen Z is changing nightlife, the evolution of the restaurant industry, and the passion for football, family, and food that drives his projects.

On this episode of The 1st Half Culture Show, we sit down with the Darby Magazine crew, the team behind Canada’s leading independent football publication. They share their mission to capture the untold stories of Canadian soccer, celebrate its culture, and document the sport’s evolution through high-quality storytelling and print media.Key Topics We Cover:0:00 – The Origins of Darby Magazine & Why Print Still Matters5:30 – The Rise of Canadian Soccer & The Impact of the 2026 World Cup12:10 – Culture & Football: How the Game Connects Communities19:45 – The Growth of Women’s Soccer & The Northern Super League27:20 – 12 Questions with the Darby Crew