Jesse Marsch: Inside the Mindset of a Coach, Farmer, and Food Lover

What does it take to find a sense of home when life takes you around the world? On this episode of By Reservation Only, Hannah sits down with Jesse Marsch, head coach of the Canadian men's national soccer team, for a conversation that travels far beyond the pitch. From six months spent exploring 32 countries with his family to tending olive trees at a 700-year-old villa and farm in Tuscany, Marsch shares how food, travel, and the people gathered around a table have shaped his perspective on life, leadership, and belonging. He reflects on building a new identity for Canadian soccer, the electric energy surrounding the national team, his friendship and restaurant partnership with James Beard Award-winning chef Alex Seidel, and the lessons in patience he's learned from life in Italy. Their conversation is a reminder that some of life's most meaningful moments happen when we slow down long enough to savour them. Presented by KIBO, By Reservation Only explores the people, places and ideas shaping Canada’s culinary landscape. Key Moments: 02:25 - Building a New Identity for Canadian Soccer 09:16 - 32 Countries, Six Months and a Family Adventure 16:29 - Jesse's Friendship with James Beard Award-winning Chef Alex Seidel. 20:52 - La Dolce Vita: Life as an Amateur Olive Farmer 41:48 - Canada's Soccer Journey About the guest: Jesse Marsch is the head coach of Canada's men's national soccer team, bringing more than three decades of experience to the game as both a player and coach. Having worked across North America and Europe, he is known for his high-energy approach to leadership and his commitment to building competitive, confident teams.