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. 2D AGO

    Episode 33 | Jose Angulo (New York Cosmos, USL MVP)

    A conversation on player pathways, local talent, and building the next generation through community. Hosts Megan  Liam About This Episode In Episode 33 of The Soccer Ladder, we sit down with Jose Angulo (@j_angulo), Scout and Manager of Youth Partnerships for the New York Cosmos (@nycosmos). A North Jersey native from Paterson, Jose Angulo’s journey through the local soccer scene led him to a professional career — where he was named USL Championship MVP. Today, he’s giving back to the game by identifying talent, building pathways, and strengthening relationships between clubs and communities across New Jersey. We also touch on the legacy of Pelé (@pele) and the lasting impact the Cosmos brand has had on the global game. In This Episode  Jose Angulo’s journey from Paterson, NJ to the professional level  What it takes to stand out in the New Jersey soccer landscape  The transition from player to scout and youth development leader  How the New York Cosmos identify and develop talent  The importance of local pipelines and community relationships  What scouts are actually looking for in young players  Why exposure alone isn’t enough — and what really separates players  The role of mindset, consistency, and coachability  How youth clubs can better connect with higher-level opportunities  The balance between development and competition  The long-term vision for soccer growth in North Jersey Key Takeaways ✔ Your environment matters — but your habits matter more  ✔ Exposure doesn’t guarantee opportunity — preparation does  ✔ Relationships in soccer open doors  ✔ Development pathways are not one-size-fits-all  ✔ The best players are consistent, coachable, and disciplined Notable Mentions  New York Cosmos legacy and global impact  Pelé’s influence on the club and the sport  Growth of soccer in North Jersey  Youth-to-pro development pathways Connect Jose Angulo  📸 Instagram: @j_angulo New York Cosmos  📸 Instagram: @nycosmos  🔗 https://t.mtrbio.com/nycosmos 🔗 www.nycsomos.com Pelé  📸 Instagram: @pele  🔗 www.pelebrand.com 🎙 Hosted by @meganlinkeofficial & @liamlinke18  🎧 Listen now on The Soccer Ladder

    16 min

  2. APR 23

    Episode 32 | Dr Marc Bubbs (Performance Nutritionist, ProBio Nutrition)

    A conversation on fueling youth athletes, building longevity, and mastering the fundamentals of performance. Hosts Megan Liam About This Episode In Episode 32 of The Soccer Ladder, we’re joined by Dr Marc Bubbs (@Drbubbs), a performance nutritionist working with professional and Olympic athletes across elite sport, including @canadabasketball, @usmnt, and @underarmour. With over 20 years of experience, Dr Marc Bubbs breaks down what truly matters when it comes to fueling development, recovery, and long-term performance — especially for young athletes navigating today’s demanding schedules.  From under-fueling and match day nutrition to supplements, habits, and cutting through online noise — this episode is a masterclass for players and parents alike. In This Episode  Dr Marc Bubbs’ journey from athlete to elite performance nutritionist  What surprised him most inside professional team environments  Why nutrition and recovery weren’t always prioritized in sport  The biggest fueling mistake youth athletes make today  Why under-fueling is more common than people think  How busy schedules impact youth athlete nutrition  Smart snack strategies for pre-training and post-training  The difference between fast vs slow carbohydrates (and why it matters)  Simple, effective fueling ideas for tight time windows  What separates athletes who last 10–15 years  Why patterns and habits outperform short-term strategies  How to properly fuel on match day (timeline + structure)  Growth spurts and what parents need to know nutritionally  The role of protein, carbs, and total energy intake  Supplements: what actually matters vs what’s noise  How to filter misinformation in today’s nutrition landscape  The importance of sleep, recovery, and consistency  Why fundamentals still drive 80–90% of performance results  Inside ProBio Nutrition and how it supports athlete health Key Takeaways ✔ Most young athletes are under-fueling, not overeating ✔ Total daily energy intake is the foundation of performance ✔ Fast carbs are critical around training and games ✔ Consistency beats perfection — build patterns, not quick fixes ✔ You don’t need trends — you need fundamentals ✔ Sleep, nutrition, and habits drive long-term success ✔ The best athletes master the basics repeatedly Notable Mentions  Canada Basketball  U.S. Men’s National Team  Under Armour  Elite athletes across multiple sports  Youth athlete development systems Connect Dr Marc Bubbs  📸 Instagram: @Drbubbs  🌐 Website: www.drbubbs.com ProBio Nutrition  🌐 Website: www.drbubbs.com (Co-Founder @probionutrition) 🎙 Hosted by @meganlinkeofficial & @liamlinke18  🎧Listen now on The Soccer Ladder

    33 min

  3. APR 2

    Episode 31 | Jozy Altidore (USMNT Veteran, Sogility)

    A conversation on development, pressure, longevity, and building the next generation of players. Hosts Megan  Liam About This Episode In Episode 31 of The Soccer Ladder, we are joined by Jozy Altidore (@jozyaltidore) — a U.S. Men’s National Team veteran who signed professionally at just 16 and built a career across Europe and MLS. Now stepping into a new chapter, Jozy Altidore is focused on developing the next generation through @Sogility and @SogilityGO, bringing technology-driven training into the modern game. From early development and pressure, to parenting, longevity, and the future of soccer training — this episode is packed with real, honest insight for players and families navigating the game today.  In This Episode  What coaches saw in Jozy Altidore at just 16 years old  The reality of kids signing younger and the importance of balance  How to manage intense training schedules at a young age  Why letting kids still be kids is critical in development  Jozy’s perspective as both a former pro and a parent  What academy players misunderstand about the pro pathway  Why being a good person and teammate matters just as much as talent  The moment pressure first felt real in his career  The difference between pressure that builds vs. breaks a player  Why there are multiple pathways to success in soccer  Lessons from playing in Europe and adapting to new environments  What actually creates long professional careers  The importance of being a well-rounded player and teammate  Why sleep, recovery, and rest are essential for performance  Inside @Sogility — technology-driven player development  How @SogilityGO is changing at-home training  The role of data and AI in modern soccer development  Why unstructured play and creativity still matter Key Takeaways ✔ Talent gets attention — character and adaptability build careers  ✔ Balance is everything in youth development  ✔ Pressure should develop players, not overwhelm them  ✔ Being a great teammate extends your career  ✔ Recovery, sleep, and stretching are non-negotiable  ✔ Technology is shaping the future of training — but creativity still wins Notable Mentions  Jozy Altidore — USMNT Veteran  Red Bulls / MetroStars development pathway  U.S. Youth National Team system  European club experience (Spain)  Sogility training ecosystem Connect Jozy Altidore  📸 Instagram: @jozyaltidore Sogility:  📸 Instagram: @sogility  ⚽ Technology-Driven Soccer Training  #TrainDifferentGetBetter For more on Sogility: www.sogility.com SogilityGO:  📸 Instagram: @SogilityGO  📱 Interactive app + smart rebounder  🏠 Train at home For more on SogilityGO:  www.sogilitygo.com 🎙 Hosted by @meganlinkeofficial & @liamlinke18  🎧 Listen now on The Soccer Ladder

    25 min

  4. MAR 4

    Episode 30 | Jesús Pérez (USMNT Assistant Coach)

    A behind-the-scenes look at elite preparation, mindset, and what young players can learn from the highest level of the game.  About This Episode In Episode 30 of The Soccer Ladder, we are joined by Jesús Pérez (@jpp_71), assistant coach of the U.S. Men’s National Team (@usmnt) and longtime collaborator of head coach Mauricio Pochettino (@pochettino). With the next World Cup on the horizon, Jesús Pérez shares what elite tournament preparation truly looks like behind the scenes — and why this U.S. team genuinely believes it can compete to win it. From passion and commitment at the highest level to youth development, parenting advice, and the importance of unstructured play, this episode delivers a powerful perspective for players and families navigating today’s game. In This Episode How Jesús Pérez transitioned from aspiring player to elite coachThe impact of sports science on his coaching philosophyWhat makes his 15-year partnership with Mauricio Pochettino workWhat fans don’t see during major tournament preparationWhy no one truly knows the final roster until the last momentThe two qualities Jesús Pérez values most in USMNT players: passion + commitmentHow to reduce the gap between your best version and your worst versionThe potential impact of hosting a World Cup in the U.S.Advice for 12–15-year-old players dreaming of the national teamWhy staying close to family matters during early developmentHonest thoughts on rushing careers and early moves abroadClear advice for parents: be a parent, not the coachWinning vs. development — and why competitive mentality still mattersWhy young players should stop worrying about moneyWhy kids need more unstructured, free playRapid fire: the one word that defines a World Cup playerKey Takeaways ✔ Passion and commitment separate elite players ✔Consistency matters more than occasional brilliance ✔Stay close to family during foundational years ✔Free play builds creativity that structured training cannot ✔Parents should support — not coach from the sidelines ✔Winning and development can coexist Connect Jesús Pérez  📸 Instagram: @jpp_71 U.S. Men’s National Team  📸 Instagram: @usmnt Mauricio Pochettino  📸 Instagram: @pochettino 🎙 Hosted by @meganlinkeofficial & @liamlinke18  🎧 Listen now on The Soccer Ladder

    28 min

  5. FEB 11

    Episode 29 | Dan Motchman (Elite Performance Chef)

    A behind-the-scenes look at how the world’s top athletes fuel performance, recovery, and longevity — and what youth players and parents can learn from elite nutrition strategies.  About This Episode In Episode 29 of The Soccer Ladder, we dive into one of the most overlooked pillars of performance: nutrition. We’re joined by Dan Motchman, a private performance chef who works with some of the top athletes in the world across soccer, boxing, Formula 1, and Olympic sport. Dan shares how nutrition changes by sport, position, travel demands, and age — and how small details can make a massive difference at the highest levels. From Premier League match prep to Formula 1 recovery and youth fueling fundamentals, this episode connects elite performance to real-world takeaways for players, parents, and coaches. In This Episode How nutrition differs across soccer, boxing, motorsport, and Olympic sportWhat a typical match-week fueling plan looks like for elite footballersThe role of carbohydrates, fats, and protein before, during, and after competitionWhy sleep, hydration, and recovery nutrition are just as important as trainingHow travel, late kickoffs, and quick turnarounds impact fueling strategiesYouth nutrition basics: what young players actually need during growth yearsSimple swaps parents can make to support performance without overcomplicating mealsPlant-based nutrition, recovery, and inflammation reductionWhy elite performance often comes down to the final 1–2%Notable Clients & Experience Dan has worked with athletes and organizations at the very highest level, including: Current Clients Anthony Joshua (Boxing)Chris Richards (Crystal Palace / USMNT)Marc Guéhi (Manchester City)Joachim Andersen (Fulham FC)Freddie Bernal (Chelsea FC)Alex Yee (Olympian – Paris Gold Medalist)Previous Clients Chelsea FCWilliams Racing Formula 1 TeamRomeo LaviaRuben Loftus-CheekArmando BrojaCarney ChukwuemekaDavid Adeleye (Boxing)Lewis CapaldiSophie TurnerConnect Dan Motchman 📸 Instagram: @chef_danmotchman Megan Linke 📸 Instagram: @meganlinkeofficial Liam Linke:  📸 Instagram: @liamlinke18

    35 min

  6. JAN 15

    Episode 28 | Amir Lowery (Open Goal Project, District of Columbia FC)

    In this episode of The Soccer Ladder, hosts Megan Linke (@meganlinkeofficial) and Liam Linke (@liamlinke18) sit down with Amir Lowery — former professional player, D.C. native, and founder of Open Goal Project. Amir shares his powerful journey from playing professionally in MLS and USL to returning home to Washington, D.C., where he’s now working to dismantle barriers in youth soccer and create access for players from underserved communities. Episode Highlights Amir’s path from D.C. public schools to Wake Forest University and a 9-year professional careerPlaying professionally with Colorado Rapids, San Jose Earthquakes, Montreal Impact, and moreWhy pay-to-play is one of the biggest obstacles in U.S. youth soccerHow Open Goal Project was built to close gaps in access, resources, and opportunityThe importance of transportation, academics, strength training, injury rehab, and family supportWhy character development and mental training are just as important as technical skillThe creation of District of Columbia FC and its impact on the local soccer ecosystemWhat Amir believes is missing from traditional youth development modelsAdvice for parents and players navigating elite pathways and academy systemsWhat gives Amir hope for the future of soccer in the United StatesWorld Cup predictions and the growing momentum around the game in the U.S.Key Takeaway True player development goes beyond talent. Access, mentorship, mental resilience, and community support are essential to helping young players reach their full potential — on and off the field. Connect with Amir & Learn More Amir Lowery: @princeloweryOpen Goal Project: @opengoalproject 🌐 www.opengoalproject.orgDistrict of Columbia FC: @districtofcolumbiafc🎧 Listen to Episode 28 of The Soccer Ladder now — available on all major podcast platforms.

    28 min

  7. JAN 8

    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

  8. 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
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Ratings & Reviews

2.5
out of 5
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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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