The World Cup is Here: Here's Why You REALLY Need to Care About Soccer

the vibe

⚽ Soccer is the world's most popular sport. But its biggest impact has nothing to do with what happens on the field. With an estimated four billion fans worldwide, soccer has become a shared language that crosses borders, cultures, and politics. Around the world, it has been used to promote peace, improve public health, keep children in school, and strengthen communities in ways that extend far beyond the game itself. In this lecture, Mike Geddes, former BBC soccer reporter, co-founder of Oakland Roots SC and one of the world's leading experts on purpose-driven sports, explores how soccer became one of humanity's most influential cultural forces. Drawing on stories from World Cups, conflict zones, and communities across the globe, he reveals how the world's favorite sport has shaped society in surprising ways. Whether you're a lifelong fan or have never watched a match, this talk offers a new perspective on why soccer matters, what it reveals about human nature, and how sport can become a powerful tool for social change. 🌍 🕰 Event Details What should I expect? 7:00-7:35 --> arrival & chats 7:35-8:20 --> lecture 8:20-9:00 --> q&a and more chatting Who's invited? Anyone with an interest in learning new things, meeting new people, and doing fun things on weeknights! Lots of people came solo to our last event, so don't be afraid to do the same—you’ll meet some awesome people! What about parking? There's no parking on-site, so we recommend street parking or using public…