Podcast
The Soccer Ladder with Li & Me
Hosted by Megan · EN
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.
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26episodes
Episodes
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Episode 36: Matteo Masucci — Building Better Players Through Development, Mindset & Innovation
3d ago00:40:09Tap to summarizeIn Episode 36 of The Soccer Ladder, Megan and Liam sit down with Matteo Masucci, founder of Juventus Academy Los Angeles, entrepreneur, coach, and creator of innovative AI-powered coaching technology.Born and raised in Italy, Matteo shares his journey from professional soccer and sports science to building one of the premier youth development environments in the United States alongside Alessandro Del Piero. He offers valuable insight into player development, technical training, decision-making, and what today's players and parents should really be focusing on. In this episode we discuss:⚽ The biggest differences between European and American youth soccer⚽ Why individual development should come before team trophies⚽ What players ages 12–15 should focus on during key growth years⚽ The impact of physical growth on coordination and performance⚽ Why technical skills should be developed before soccer IQ⚽ What defines a strong midfielder in today's game⚽ Common mistakes ambitious soccer parents make⚽ The importance of 1v1 play and shooting development⚽ How neuroscience influences player decision-making⚽ The future of AI in coaching and player developmentLearn more:⚽ Juventus Academy Los Angeles📲 Instagram: @juventusacademyla⚽ Zone360 AI📲 Instagram: @zone360.aiFollow:📲 Matteo Masucci: @Matteo_masu📲 Juventus Academy Los Angeles: @juventusacademyla📲 Juventus Academy Phoenix: @juventusacademyphoenix📲 Layout HM MLS Next: @layouthmlsnext📲 Zone360 AI: @zone360.ai📲 Alessandro Del Piero: @alessandrodelpiero📲 N10 Los Angeles: @n10losangelesFollow The Soccer Ladder:📲 Instagram: @meganlinkeofficial📲 Instagram: @liamlinke18🎙️ Subscribe for more conversations with elite players, coaches, and leaders shaping the future of the game. ⚽️🔥
Transcribe →Episode 35: Tab Ramos — World Cups, Youth Development, & The Future of American Soccer
2w ago00:21:28Tap to summarizeIn Episode 35 of The Soccer Ladder, Megan and Liam sit down with soccer legend Tab Ramos.A three-time FIFA World Cup player, Olympian, former U.S. U-20 Men’s National Team Head Coach, and MLS Head Coach, Tab shares lessons from decades at the highest levels of the game.In this episode we discuss:⚽ Playing in three FIFA World Cups⚽ What players ages 12–15 should focus on right now⚽ Why technical ability and ball mastery still matter most⚽ The realities of pay-to-play soccer⚽ Early vs. late developers⚽ What separates elite midfielders from everyone else⚽ Expectations for the United States at the next World Cup⚽ The vision behind the U.S. National Soccer SchoolLearn more:⚽ U.S. National Soccer School Goalkeeper Talent Identification Eventshttps://www.usnationalsoccerschool.com/talent-identification-eventsU.S. National Soccer School Goalkeeper Talent Identification Events⚽ U.S. National Soccer SchoolFollow:U.S. National Soccer School Official Website📲 Instagram: @tabramosofficial📲 Inside American Soccer: @insideamericansoccerhttps://www.usnationalsoccerschool.com/Follow The Soccer Ladder:📲 Instagram: @meganlinkeofficial📲 Instagram: @liamlinke18🎙️ Subscribe for more conversations with elite players, coaches, and leaders shaping the future of the game.
Transcribe →Episode 34 | Janine Willis (Soccer in the Streets)
4w ago00:18:48Tap to summarizeA conversation on access, opportunity, and using soccer to change communities.HostsMeganLiamAbout This EpisodeIn Episode 34 of The Soccer Ladder, we sit down with Janine Willis, former Canadian Women’s National Team player and Board of Directors member for Soccer in the Streets (@soccerstreets).From her journey playing at Princeton and with the Canadian National Team to now helping lead one of the most impactful soccer nonprofits in the country, Janine shares how soccer can become a vehicle for access, mobility, mentorship, and community transformation.We dive into Atlanta’s pay-to-play challenges, youth development, mental health, social-emotional learning, and how Soccer in the Streets is creating safe spaces where every child can thrive. In This Episode Janine Willis’ journey from Canada to the collegiate and national team level Growing up playing on boys teams due to limited girls infrastructure Playing Division I soccer at Princeton University Transitioning from soccer into law school and life after sport Why identity outside of soccer matters for young athletes The realities of pay-to-play and the participation gap in youth soccer Why Atlanta ranks among the highest in income inequality How Soccer in the Streets is using soccer to create opportunity Inside the organization’s “Station Soccer” initiative near MARTA transit stations How public transportation access impacts youth participation Bringing soccer directly into underserved schools and communities The importance of social-emotional learning in youth sports Trauma-informed coaching and mentorship Opening circles, closing circles, and teaching values like grit and joy Creating pathways beyond playing through referee and coaching development Building community ecosystems through soccer programming Key Takeaways✔ Soccer should be accessible to every child ✔ Development is about building the whole person, not just the player ✔ Identity outside of sport matters for long-term well-being ✔ Community and mentorship can change the trajectory of a child’s life ✔ The game can create economic and social mobility when barriers are removedNotable Mentions: Princeton University Canadian Women’s National Team MARTA transit system in Atlanta Station Soccer initiative Social-emotional learning in sports Pay-to-play barriers in youth soccer Connect:Soccer in the Streets 📸 Instagram: @soccerstreetsNonprofit organization equipping Atlanta’s youth through soccer programming, building connections, and providing safe spaces where every child can thrive.🎙 Hosted by @meganlinkeofficial & @liamlinke18 🎧 Listen now on The Soccer Ladder
Transcribe →Episode 33 | Jose Angulo (New York Cosmos, USL MVP)
May 700:15:49Tap to summarizeA conversation on player pathways, local talent, and building the next generation through community.HostsMegan LiamAbout This EpisodeIn 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 disciplinedNotable 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 ConnectJose Angulo 📸 Instagram: @j_anguloNew York Cosmos 📸 Instagram: @nycosmos 🔗 https://t.mtrbio.com/nycosmos🔗 www.nycsomos.comPelé 📸 Instagram: @pele 🔗 www.pelebrand.com🎙 Hosted by @meganlinkeofficial & @liamlinke18 🎧 Listen now on The Soccer Ladder
Transcribe →Episode 32 | Dr Marc Bubbs (Performance Nutritionist, ProBio Nutrition)
Apr 2300:32:31Tap to summarizeA conversation on fueling youth athletes, building longevity, and mastering the fundamentals of performance.HostsMeganLiamAbout This EpisodeIn 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 repeatedlyNotable Mentions Canada Basketball U.S. Men’s National Team Under Armour Elite athletes across multiple sports Youth athlete development systems ConnectDr Marc Bubbs 📸 Instagram: @Drbubbs 🌐 Website: www.drbubbs.comProBio Nutrition 🌐 Website: www.drbubbs.com (Co-Founder @probionutrition)🎙 Hosted by @meganlinkeofficial & @liamlinke18 🎧Listen now on The Soccer Ladder
Transcribe →Episode 31 | Jozy Altidore (USMNT Veteran, Sogility)
Apr 200:25:07Tap to summarizeA conversation on development, pressure, longevity, and building the next generation of players.HostsMegan LiamAbout This EpisodeIn 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 winsNotable Mentions Jozy Altidore — USMNT Veteran Red Bulls / MetroStars development pathway U.S. Youth National Team system European club experience (Spain) Sogility training ecosystem ConnectJozy Altidore 📸 Instagram: @jozyaltidoreSogility: 📸 Instagram: @sogility ⚽ Technology-Driven Soccer Training #TrainDifferentGetBetterFor more on Sogility:www.sogility.comSogilityGO: 📸 Instagram: @SogilityGO 📱 Interactive app + smart rebounder 🏠 Train at homeFor more on SogilityGO: www.sogilitygo.com🎙 Hosted by @meganlinkeofficial & @liamlinke18 🎧 Listen now on The Soccer Ladder
Transcribe →Episode 30 | Jesús Pérez (USMNT Assistant Coach)
Mar 400:27:35Tap to summarizeA behind-the-scenes look at elite preparation, mindset, and what young players can learn from the highest level of the game. About This EpisodeIn 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 EpisodeHow 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 coexistConnectJesús Pérez 📸 Instagram: @jpp_71U.S. Men’s National Team 📸 Instagram: @usmntMauricio Pochettino 📸 Instagram: @pochettino🎙 Hosted by @meganlinkeofficial & @liamlinke18 🎧 Listen now on The Soccer Ladder
Transcribe →Episode 29 | Dan Motchman (Elite Performance Chef)
Feb 1100:34:44Tap to summarizeA 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 EpisodeIn 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 EpisodeHow 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 & ExperienceDan has worked with athletes and organizations at the very highest level, including:Current ClientsAnthony 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 ClientsChelsea FCWilliams Racing Formula 1 TeamRomeo LaviaRuben Loftus-CheekArmando BrojaCarney ChukwuemekaDavid Adeleye (Boxing)Lewis CapaldiSophie TurnerConnectDan Motchman 📸 Instagram: @chef_danmotchmanMegan Linke 📸 Instagram: @meganlinkeofficialLiam Linke: 📸 Instagram: @liamlinke18
Transcribe →Episode 28 | Amir Lowery (Open Goal Project, District of Columbia FC)
Jan 1500:27:45Tap to summarizeIn 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 HighlightsAmir’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 TakeawayTrue 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 MoreAmir 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.
Transcribe →Episode 27 | Jeroen Chantrain (Royal Antwerp FC, RSC Anderlecht)
Jan 800:24:59Tap to summarizeIn 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 HandlesJeroen 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
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