Hometown FC EP #12: Joe Pehanich

Joe Pehanich is the Head of Youth Soccer at Venice Beach FC, a U.S. Soccer Federation Scout, and a former member of the LAFC academy staff, bringing a rare perspective from both the professional academy system and the grassroots level. In this episode, Joe shares his journey from coaching and developing players at LAFC to leading Venice Beach FC’s youth program, and offers a unique lens on what it really takes to identify and nurture talent in the U.S.

Listeners will hear about:

• How Venice Beach FC is shaping the future of youth soccer in California
• Insights from Joe’s time at LAFC and how pro academies think about player development
• The role of scouting in opening doors for overlooked players
• What separates good from great in a player’s development
• Advice for parents and players chasing the dream without losing balance

This conversation is packed with insight, honesty, and practical advice straight from someone who lives at the intersection of development and opportunity. Another step in Hometown FC’s mission to take players from local streets to global stages.