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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23episodes
Episodes
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Episode 33 | Jose Angulo (New York Cosmos, USL MVP)
2w ago00:15:49Tap 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)
4w ago00:32:31Tap 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
Transcribe →Episode 26: The Exchange FC (Grassroots to Pro Pathways)
Jan 200:21:36Tap to summarizeLocal Football, Access, and the Future of the American Player PathwayIn 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 HighlightsWhy some of the most gifted players grow up playing with no lines, no shoes, and no formal fields — yet possess elite instinctsHow access, not talent, is often the biggest barrier in U.S. youth soccerThe importance of lower-level entry points connected to elite academiesWhy free, local training programs in parks and city spaces matterHow clubs like New York Red Bulls and New York City FC can identify talent earlier through community presenceWhat makes the Red Bull system so unique — structure, consistency, and a unified philosophyThoughts on MLS teams, player development, and who’s standing out locally right nowA candid look at who has the brighter future: Red Bulls or NYCFC?🔍 Topics We ExploreGrassroots soccer vs. elite academy environmentsInner-city programs as scouting pipelinesCreating sustainable access without sacrificing standardsEuropean development influence on American systemsWhy structure and identity matter at every level of a clubThe long-term impact of investing in community football👥 Hosts & GuestHost:🎙 Megan Linke – @meganlinkeofficialCo-hosted normally with her son Liam (Red Bulls Academy), who was at school for this episodeGuest:⚽️ Exchange FC – @theexchangefcLocal football media voice covering the culture, players, and stories shaping the game from the ground up🎧 Listen NowAvailable 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.
Transcribe →Episode 25 | Haley McCutcheon (Orlando Pride, NWSL)
Dec 1800:29:51Tap to summarizeThis 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.🎙️ GuestHaley McCutcheon Instagram: @hayhanson Orlando Pride: @orlpride NWSL: @nwsl⚽ What We Talk AboutHaley’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 TakeawaysIf 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 + FollowGuest: @hayhanson Team: @orlpride League: @nwslPodcast: @thesoccerladder⚽ HostsMeg Linke Instagram: @meglinkeofficialLiam Linke Instagram: @liamlinke18
Transcribe →🎙️ Episode 24: Grit, Versatility & Showing Up When It Counts — with Bryan Jordan
Nov 1300:28:18Tap to summarizeThis 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 coverFrom 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 hitsYouth/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 guestsYou’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.ConnectGuest: Bryan Jordan — Instagram @bj_6 Hosts: @meganlinkeofficial & @liamlinke18 Show: @thesoccerladder • Listen wherever you get podcasts
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