Ep 61: Part 1 | Life as a World Cup and International Match Host w/ Najjah Calibur

If you’ve attended or watched a major international soccer tournament recently, you’ve probably noticed an increasing prevalence of on-field and in-seat match hosts (and Coldplay), getting the crowd hyped for the game during the pre-game and half-time periods. In today’s episode, we’re joined, not simply by ‘one of these in-game hosts’, but perhaps by one of the most dynamic, positive-vibe energetic hosts out there right now - Najjah Calibur. A self-described ‘Spice Man’ from Grenada, living in Toronto, Najjah has hosted matches at both Men’s and Women’s World Cups, CONCACAF Gold Cups, and most recently at January and February’s Asian Cup in Qatar.

We discuss how someone becomes a match host in the first place, what it’s like to have fans turn on you, getting to see legends like Ronaldo and Zidane up close and personal, and what the scene is like in Qatar post-World Cup 2022. 

Not only is Najjah full of incredible, positive energy, he’s full of amazing, well-traveled insights and stories. So many in fact, that this conversation deserves to be delivered in full in a 2-part series ("Put some respect on it!" - Najjah). And so, this is Part 1 of our conversation w/ this incredible international match host, and amazing international footy traveler.

Foot(y)notes:

• If you or someone you know is struggling in their relationship with alcohol, you can call 1-800-662-4357 for confidential free help, or visit findtreatment.gov to find substance use treatment and information near you.

• Explore more of what Najjah and his entertainment crew do by checking out the Live Engine website.

• Check out the song Najjah almost sang live at the 2022 World Cup Final.

• As we asked Najjah, over one year after the 2022 World Cup, what has changed in Qatar?

• What the heck is Colin referring to with his 'Lindsay Horan' comment? This.

 

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