Skip to Content
Streetsblog USA home
Streetsblog USA home
Log In
Charlotte

Can Athletes Help Solve Urbanism’s PR Problem? Soccer Star Tesho Akindele Thinks So

Camp North End in Charlotte, N.C., which Tesho Akindele is helping to develop, and Tesho himself. Photos:Camden and Hailey George, CC and Andy Witchger, CC

If the typical professional athlete talks about transportation at all, it's usually in the context of a mulit-million SUV commercial. Soccer star Tesho Akindele, though, isn't the typical athlete — and as he transitions out of his career on the field, he wants to make a full-time job out of building walkable, bikeable, equitable cities.

Today on The Brake, we talk to Tesho about how he fell in love with urbanism, why he uses his platform to talk about parking minimums, and the secret to getting non-wonks on board the movement to end car dependency and create people-centered places.

Tune in below, on Apple Podcasts, or anywhere else you listen, and follow Tesho on Twitter @Tesho13.

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog USA

Americans Demand Congress Fund Active Transportation In Next Infrastructure Bill — And Not Just The Bike/Walk Advocates

A "back to basics" surface transportation bill — as Republicans are seeking — would be devastating for road safety and small businesses.

February 27, 2026

Friday’s Headlines Take a Lot to Laugh, Take a Train to Cry

I ride on a mail train, baby. Can't buy a thrill.

February 27, 2026

Talking Headways Podcast: The Future of Transit

Yonah Freemark talks with Jeff Wood about the state of the trains across the world.

February 26, 2026

Are Roundabouts Just For Rich People?

And if not, how do we get more of them in the low-income neighborhoods that need life-saving infrastructure the most?

February 26, 2026

Thursday’s Headlines Need Alternatives

Economics 101: Competition brings down costs.

February 26, 2026

How Recreational Cycling Can Lead to Safe Streets For All

These cities are leveraging joy to fight for connected communities.

February 26, 2026
See all posts