The Soccer Ladder with Li & Me

Megan
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The Soccer Ladder with Li & Me is a podcast dedicated to young soccer players and their families who dream of going pro. Hosted by soccer mom Megan Linke and her son Liam, this show brings in professional players, coaches, and industry experts to share their journeys and offer insights into what it takes to climb the ranks in the soccer world. Whether you're just starting or already on the path, we provide real stories, practical advice, and inspiration to help you reach the next level.For more follow us along @liandmeinnyc on YouTube and Instagram *Don't forget to give us a review below

  1. 4D AGO

    Episode 27 | Jeroen Chantrain (Royal Antwerp FC, RSC Anderlecht)

    In Episode 27 of The Soccer Ladder, we’re joined by Jeroen Chantrain, a Belgian youth coach who has worked at two of the most iconic clubs in European football — RSC Anderlecht, Belgium’s most successful club, and Royal Antwerp FC, the oldest club in the country. Jeroen brings a rare inside look at elite European player development, sharing how top academies think about technical skill, mentality, patience, and the long-term pathway from grassroots football to the first team. This episode is a must-listen for players, parents, and coaches who want to understand how Europe develops talent — and what truly matters beyond the badge. In this episode, we cover: What it means to coach at Royal Antwerp, known as “The Great Old”, and why club identity mattersKey similarities and differences between Anderlecht and Antwerp’s youth development modelsWhy individual player development always comes before team resultsHow Belgian academies prepare players from U10 all the way to the first teamWhy technical ability stands out immediately — and why coaches love “the king of the ball”The role of school, discipline, and sacrifices in elite player pathwaysWhen nutrition, recovery, and education should begin (earlier than most think)How coaches handle talented players with difficult personalitiesWhy patience is the most underrated trait for young players and parentsWhy going “too fast” to a big-name club can hurt long-term developmentHow Belgian clubs scout and develop talent from the United StatesThoughts on young American players transitioning to EuropeWorld Cup insights and why Belgium remains a dangerous outsiderKey Takeaway “Quality will always win — but patience decides when.” Jeroen reinforces a powerful message echoed across Europe’s top academies: development is not a race. Feeling safe, growing consistently, and trusting the process matter more than chasing names or money too early. Guest & Club Handles Jeroen Chantrain: @jeroenchantrainRoyal Antwerp FC: @royal_antwerp_fcRSC Anderlecht: @rscanderlechtAnderlecht Academy (Neerpede): @rscaneerpedeHosts 🎙️ Megan Linke – @meganlinkeofficial 🎙️ Liam Linke – @liamlinke18 🎧 Listen to Episode 27 now on all major podcast platforms 📲 Follow along on Instagram: @thesoccerladder

    25 min

  2. JAN 2

    Episode 26: The Exchange FC (Grassroots to Pro Pathways)

    Local Football, Access, and the Future of the American Player Pathway In Episode 26 of The Soccer Ladder, Megan sits down for a solo-hosted conversation with the voice behind  ⁨@TheExchangeFc⁩   a platform deeply rooted in local football culture and grassroots storytelling. With Liam at school for the day, this episode becomes a deep dive into the local soccer ecosystem, access to the game, and how untapped talent across the U.S. could change the future of American soccer if given the right opportunities. This conversation challenges the traditional pay-to-play model and explores what real inclusion, early access, and community-based development could look like.    🎙 Episode Highlights Why some of the most gifted players grow up playing with no lines, no shoes, and no formal fields — yet possess elite instincts How access, not talent, is often the biggest barrier in U.S. youth soccer The importance of lower-level entry points connected to elite academies Why free, local training programs in parks and city spaces matter How clubs like New York Red Bulls and New York City FC can identify talent earlier through community presence What makes the Red Bull system so unique — structure, consistency, and a unified philosophy Thoughts on MLS teams, player development, and who’s standing out locally right now A candid look at who has the brighter future: Red Bulls or NYCFC? 🔍 Topics We Explore Grassroots soccer vs. elite academy environments Inner-city programs as scouting pipelines Creating sustainable access without sacrificing standards European development influence on American systems Why structure and identity matter at every level of a club The long-term impact of investing in community football 👥 Hosts & Guest Host: 🎙 Megan Linke – @meganlinkeofficial Co-hosted normally with her son Liam (Red Bulls Academy), who was at school for this episode Guest: ⚽️ Exchange FC – @theexchangefc Local football media voice covering the culture, players, and stories shaping the game from the ground up 🎧 Listen Now Available on all major podcast platforms. Follow along for more conversations focused on development, mindset, access, and the real path to the top of the game.

    22 min

  3. 12/18/2025

    Episode 25 | Haley McCutcheon (Orlando Pride, NWSL)

    This one really is legendary — we’re welcoming our first-ever NWSL player to The Soccer Ladder! In this episode, we’re joined by Haley McCutcheon of the Orlando Pride, and she brings such real, grounded insight into what it takes to develop, stay mentally strong, and build a career that lasts. Also… quick behind-the-scenes moment: I usually record with Liam, but I accidentally scheduled studio time on a school day (mom fail 😅) — so Liam pops in with a few questions and we keep it moving. 🎙️ Guest Haley McCutcheon Instagram: @hayhanson Orlando Pride: @orlpride NWSL: @nwsl ⚽ What We Talk About Haley’s early years in ECNL and how intense travel + year-round soccer shaped her disciplineThe role her parents played in helping her manage the demands of youth soccerWhy her biggest early habit was focusing on the process and keeping the game funWhat drew her to Nebraska (Midwest girls 🫶) and how the environment helped her max out her potentialThe truth about the mental game: adapting to coaches, pressure, and competition for minutes“Control what you can”: Haley’s core focus on attitude + effortHer experience having three coaches in one year and how she stayed grounded through changeWhy young players should embrace playing different positions (and how it makes you smarter on the field)Her “welcome to the league” moments: playing against legends like Alex Morgan, Sydney Leroux, Julie Ertz — and having Marta as a teammateWhat Orlando Pride taught her about leadership, balance, and enjoying the full experience againLocker room culture, unity, and why being a great teammate can elevate performanceWinning both the Shield + Championship — and why it felt like relief + joyThe difference between players who think they want to go pro vs. players who actually make itPatience for kids who aren’t starters yet — and why progress isn’t always tied to accoladesThe mindset shift: focusing on who you’re being, not just what you’re achievingWhat Haley’s most excited for in the women’s game: more access, more visibility, more fans in seatsThe responsibility pro players feel as role models for the next generation (boys AND girls)🔑 Key Takeaways If you want longevity, you have to love the process — not just the outcome.You can’t control coaches, minutes, or preferences — but you can control effort and attitude.Sleep and nutrition are not optional. Recovery is performance.Versatility isn’t a setback — it’s a superpower.Team culture matters: unity + buy-in can change everything.📲 Connect + Follow Guest: @hayhanson Team: @orlpride League: @nwsl Podcast: @thesoccerladder ⚽ Hosts Meg Linke Instagram: @meglinkeofficial Liam Linke Instagram: @liamlinke18

    30 min

  4. 11/13/2025

    🎙️ Episode 24: Grit, Versatility & Showing Up When It Counts — with Bryan Jordan

    This week on The Soccer Ladder, we’re joined by Bryan Jordan (@bj_6) — former LA Galaxy winger, two-time MLS Cup champion, and one of the hardest-working pros of his era. From grinding through trials to sharing a locker room with David Beckham, Landon Donovan, and Robbie Keane, Bryan gets real about what it actually takes to climb — and stay on — the ladder. What we cover From LA kid to pro: Growing up in ultra-competitive Los Angeles, bouncing across top youth teams (Cal Heat), and the showcase moment that led to Oregon State.The break-in story: Trialing with the Galaxy, getting sent to Portland Timbers, then earning his way back when LA bought his contract — why persistence + relationships (shoutout to a timely phone call) matter.Mentality > talent: How “watch me” became his response to pressure, competition for minutes, and not being the biggest or flashiest player.Versatility is a superpower: Playing multiple positions and why that expands soccer IQ (and value) — advice for players learning the 6, CB, or wide roles.Handling the spotlight: First impressions in star-studded locker rooms and what top pros’ preparation actually looks like.Training load & recovery: Thoughts on academy sessions, private work, rest days, and listening to your body so you can stay available.Modern distractions: Social media, focus, and building self-belief in an always-on era.Favorite moments & mentors: Commercial work with Christian Pulisic (plus Tyler Adams), what he noticed about their character, and the coaches who knew how to push him (hello, Bruce Arena).Memorable gems “Self-belief, persistence, and showing up — that’s the separator when the door cracks open.”“Versatility isn’t a detour. It’s compounding intelligence for your eventual position.”“On bad days, don’t guilt yourself — listen to your body so you can live to train well tomorrow.”Quick hits Youth/college moments that shaped his mindset (including learning to balance dribbling brilliance with teamwork)How to compete on talent-heavy rosters without losing your edgeWhy smaller players can still make a massive impact (play to your weapons)Previously connected guests You’ll hear call-outs to past TSL guests and Galaxy teammates: @tristanbowen, @ajd_20, @seanfranklin5, and Charlie Rugg — plus stories featuring Beckham, Donovan, and Keane. Connect Guest: Bryan Jordan — Instagram @bj_6 Hosts: @meganlinkeofficial & @liamlinke18 Show: @thesoccerladder • Listen wherever you get podcasts

    28 min

  5. 11/06/2025

    🎙️Episode 23: Perseverance, Purpose & Building Community Beyond the Game with Mike Chabala

    In this inspiring episode of The Soccer Ladder, we sit down with Mike Chabala (@michaelchabala) — former Houston Dynamo defender, two-time MLS Cup Champion, and founder of @sphere.club — to explore the full-circle journey from professional athlete to purpose-driven entrepreneur. ⚽️ From playing in Europe at just eight years old, to earning his way onto one of the best teams in MLS history, to now creating a global movement through Sphere, Mike’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and heart. He shares what it truly takes to stay committed through the highs and lows of the professional game — and how that same discipline can be applied to business, wellness, and life. Key Takeaways: 🌍From Europe to the MLS: Mike’s unconventional start — moving abroad alone at age 8 — and how early adversity shaped his mindset. 💪Perseverance through setbacks: The reality of not playing for four years in the league and what kept him committed to his dream. ⚽️Advice for youth players: Why technical mastery, daily discipline, and a relentless work ethic matter more than talent alone.  🧠Building community through Sphere: How he transformed his love of soccer and fitness into Sphere, a global fitness movement blending sport, wellness, and connection. 💡Life after the game: Redefining success beyond the field through entrepreneurship and personal growth. 💬Favorite Quote “It’s always about what you do when nobody’s watching — not what you do at practice when everyone’s there.” 🔗 Connect with Mike & Sphere 📸 Instagram: @michaelchabala  | @sphere.club 🌐 Website: www.sphere.club ⚽️ Connect with The Soccer Ladder 🎧 Listen to Episode 23 of The Soccer Ladder wherever you get your podcasts. Hosted by @meganlinkeofficial & @liamlinke18 Follow the show: @thesoccerladder

    15 min

  6. 10/16/2025

    🎙️ Episode 22: Building Mindset, Mentorship & Momentum with Chijioke Akujuobi

    This week on @thesoccerladder, hosts @meganlinkeofficial and @liamlinke18 sit down with Chijioke Akujuobi (@choppaholic5) — the creator and host of @victorychatterpodcast / @victorychatterpod — for a powerful conversation on mindset, mentorship, and what it really takes to make it in the world of soccer. From street soccer in Texas to playing professionally in Denmark,  Chijioke’s story is one of grit, faith, and relentless belief in his purpose. In this episode, he shares: ⚽️ How mindset outweighs talent — and why mental strength is the #1 differentiator for elite players. 💬 The moment a coach changed his entire career with one mindset shift. 🌍 What separates U.S. and European youth development systems — and how culture, discipline, and structure play a major role. 🎙 The origin story of The Victory Chatter Podcast and how interviewing pros like AJ DeLaGarza, Kellyn Acosta, and others has deepened his perspective. 🔥 Why self-awareness, mentorship, and consistency are the true markers of success both on and off the field. 🏆 Lessons from players like Michael Bradley and Cristiano Ronaldo on staying hungry and grounded — no matter how far you go. This episode is packed with gold for players, parents, and coaches who want to build not just a career — but character. 🎧 Listen to Episode 22 now on all streaming platforms. 📲 Follow & Connect:@thesoccerladder @meganlinkeofficial @liamlinke18@choppaholic5 @victorychatterpodcast @victorychatterpod 🎥 TikTok: @choppaholic5 @victorychatterpod #thesoccerladder #victorychatterpodcast #soccerpodcast #mindsetmatters #shijogakajobi #usmnt #youthsoccer #footballculture #growthmindset #soccerjourney #leadership #athletedevelopment

    36 min

  7. 10/02/2025

    🎙Episode 21: From Belgium to the Big Leagues – Fre Frans' Global Soccer Journey

    Guest: Fre Frans, former pro defender turned coach at RWDM Brussels 📲 IG: @frefrans In this inspiring and globe-spanning episode, we sit down with Belgian footballer and coach Fre Frans (@frefrans), who shares his journey from debuting at 17 in Belgium’s top league to coaching one of the youngest squads in Europe today. Fre played professionally for clubs like Lierse SK, Beerschot, and Partick Thistle in Scotland, and he’s now mentoring rising talent at RWDM Brussels — a club committed to youth development, global scouting (including American talent), and building strong character on and off the pitch. We dive into: Fre’s early debut at just 17 and how he handled pressure with easeHis time in Scotland vs Belgium and the cultural & tactical differencesCoaching lessons he's learned from both the best — and worst — coachesWhy mentality trumps talent at the pro levelWhat it’s like raising a son who dreams of being the next Thibaut CourtoisRWDM’s exciting philosophy on global development and scoutingAdvice to academy players dreaming of the first teamAnd rapid fire questions: toughest opponent, dream stadium, and one young player to watch 👀🔗 Plus: We get personal about parenthood, mindset, and how creating your own journey (and not comparing it to others) can lead to a long-lasting career in football and beyond. Whether you're a young player, parent, or passionate fan — this one is packed with life lessons, laughs, and legacy-level wisdom. 📍 Clubs mentioned:  @lierse_k | @beerschotofficial | @partickthistle | @rwdm_brussels | @krcgenkofficial | @official_kaagent | @realmadrid | @newyorkredbulls 📌 Don’t forget to follow the hosts:  🎙️Megan Linke: @meganlinkeofficial 🎙️ Liam: @liamlinke18 🎙️Podcast: @thesoccerladder 💥 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts — Episode 21 is live! #thesoccerladder #frefrans #rwdmbrussels #footballcoach #belgiumfootball #youthdevelopment #soccerjourney #podcastepisode #liandme #mlsacademy #redbullacademy #parentingathletes #soccerparent #goalsetting #footballmentality #sportsleadership #coachlife

    27 min

  8. 08/28/2025

    Episode 20: Longevity, Loss, and Letting the Game Teach You – with A.J. DeLaGarza

    MLS veteran. U.S. National Team defender. College champion. Youth trainer. In this episode, A.J. DeLaGarza opens up about what it really takes to have a 14-year career in Major League Soccer—and the moments on and off the field that shaped him most. From Maryland to Miami, and Galaxy to Gold Den, A.J. shares the mindset, heart, and leadership it takes to stay at the top, adapt through change, and give back to the next generation. 🔥 Inside This Episode: ⚽️ How winning two national championships at Maryland prepared him for the pro level ⚽️ What consistency, versatility, and adaptability meant in his 14-year MLS career ⚽️ Playing alongside legends like David Beckham, Landon Donovan, and Ashley Cole ⚽️ His most defining moments—from ACL tears to playing out of position to speaking up to coaches ⚽️ Creating The Goalden in Charlotte to fight burnout and build joy in the game again ⚽️ His most powerful moment of overcoming grief—finding healing on the pitch after losing his son in 2014 ⚽️ His current work with Photon Sports and how data + recovery are changing the game ⚽️ Why being prepared when your number is called is everything ⚡️ Rapid Fire: Messi or Ronaldo?Toughest opponent he ever facedThe match he wishes he could replayLocker room prank stories 😂📲 Connect & Follow: 🎧 Guest: A.J. DeLaGarza — @ajd_20 Training Facility: @thegoalden704 👟 Podcast Host: @meganlinkeofficial 🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts and give us a comment on instagram @meganlinkeoffical let us know your thoughts on this episode.  #TheSoccerLadder #AJDeLaGarza #MLSLegend #TheGoalden #YouthSoccer #SoccerPodcast #SoccerJourney #SoccerLeadership #SoccerDevelopment #MLS #SoccerParents #CollegeToPro #Futsal #PhotonSports #SoccerRecovery #SoccerResilience

    27 min
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About

The Soccer Ladder with Li & Me is a podcast dedicated to young soccer players and their families who dream of going pro. Hosted by soccer mom Megan Linke and her son Liam, this show brings in professional players, coaches, and industry experts to share their journeys and offer insights into what it takes to climb the ranks in the soccer world. Whether you're just starting or already on the path, we provide real stories, practical advice, and inspiration to help you reach the next level.For more follow us along @liandmeinnyc on YouTube and Instagram *Don't forget to give us a review below

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