The 1st Half Culture Show

From Athletic Therapist to Football Media Voice | Karim Mehdi on FC Supra, Culture & Storytelling

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 scratch * The growth of Quebec’s football ecosystem * The role of storytelling in growing the sport * Behind the scenes of FC Supra du Québec * Taking risks and creating your own path in football This 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.”

Laurent Ciman on Football Mentality | From Champions League to Coaching

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 ones Handling pressure, criticism, and failure at the highest level The role of discipline and team chemistry Transitioning from player to coach What defines a real football culture This is a conversation about leadership, resilience, and understanding the game beyond the pitch.

From Cobbler to Pizza Master | Richie Ourichian’s Roman Pizza Story (Segreta Montreal)

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!

Patrice Bernier & Alex Kenol |Canada World Cup Dreams, Football, Business & Impact

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.

Chloe Minas Story 🇨🇦 | From Sweden Pro to Montréal Roses Star

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.