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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27episodes
Episodes
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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
Transcribe →🎙️Episode 23: Perseverance, Purpose & Building Community Beyond the Game with Mike Chabala
Nov 600:15:28Tap to summarizeIn 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 & @liamlinke18Follow the show: @thesoccerladder
Transcribe →🎙️ Episode 22: Building Mindset, Mentorship & Momentum with Chijioke Akujuobi
Oct 1600:36:21Tap to summarizeThis 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
Transcribe →🎙Episode 21: From Belgium to the Big Leagues – Fre Frans' Global Soccer Journey
Oct 200:27:28Tap to summarizeGuest: Fre Frans, former pro defender turned coach at RWDM Brussels 📲 IG: @frefransIn 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
Transcribe →EP 10: From Pro Players to World-Class Coaches: A Global Approach to Player Development
May 8, 202500:30:36Tap to summarizeIn this special milestone episode, we're joined by former pro players and now elite-level coaches, Libor Volf and Alex Jakubov, the founders of Volf Soccer Academy. With academies across the U.S., Canada, Europe, and even Uganda, these two bring a wealth of international experience to the table.They dive deep into: ⚽ Their personal journeys from small villages and top European academies to professional contracts ⚽ The truth about early pro signings vs. going the college route ⚽ Why loving the game matters more than ever in today’s social media-driven youth sports culture ⚽ How setbacks like injuries, relocations, and mental pressure shaped their outlook and coaching philosophy ⚽ What makes a player truly stand out—spoiler: it’s not just skill ⚽ The importance of education, character, and having strong mentors ⚽ Their mission to find and nurture raw talent in underserved regions around the worldPlus, we hear heartwarming stories from their work in Uganda, the incredible connections they’ve built with top European clubs, and how one player from Canada ended up training with Borussia Dortmund—all because of passion, grit, and timing.This is more than just an episode about soccer. It’s about life, leadership, and what it really takes to make it—on and off the field. Whether you're a parent, player, or coach—this one is packed with insight you won’t want to miss.👉 Listen now and celebrate 10 episodes with us! 📲 Follow us here to stay in the loop and get bonus content:🔹 Libor Wolf: @volfsocceracademy🔹 Alex Jakubov: @alexanderjakubov 🔹 Megan Linke (Host): @liandmeinnyc🔹 Liam Linke (Co-host): @liamlinke93Websites:www.liandmeinnyc.com www.volfsoccer.us#TheSoccerLadder #YouthSoccer #PlayerDevelopment #SoccerPodcast #WolfSoccerAcademy #FuturePro #SoccerTraining #MindsetMatters #SoccerParents #ProPathways #SoccerJourney #RedBullsAcademy #MLSNext #CollegeSoccer #SoccerMomLife
Transcribe →Episode 9: Building the Dog Mentality with Coach Juan Ocampo
Apr 24, 202500:54:58Tap to summarizeIn this jam-packed episode of The Soccer Ladder, we sit down with Coach Juan Ocampo—founder of Pro Soccer Academy and mentor to some of the top youth players in the state. Known for cultivating what he calls the “dog mentality,” Coach Juan shares the real behind-the-scenes of what it takes to rise through the youth soccer system and develop not just talent, but true toughness.🔥 In this episode, we cover:Juan’s powerful journey from playing in the streets of Colombia to a professional stint with the CosmosWhy the years from 8–12 are the most important in player developmentThe difference between being good and being dominant—and how to train like a proHis no-fluff philosophy on physical and mental discipline (yes, there are pushups involved!)The #1 trait every top player has in common (hint: it's not just talent)Why the support system behind a young athlete is often what makes or breaks their careerWhat “quiet dog” energy is… and how Liam shows up with itAdvice for kids who want to go pro and for parents who want to support them without hoveringWhether you're a parent, coach, or youth athlete, this episode is packed with game-changing insight that will challenge, inspire, and level you up.🎧 Tune in now and hear how Coach Juan is helping shape the next generation of pros—one disciplined rep at a time.📲 Follow us here: 🔹Ig @coachjuan123🔹 Megan linke : @liandmeinnyc🔹Liam: @Liamlinke93Follow on YouTube:YouTube: @liandmeinNYCICoach Juan OCampohttp://prosocceracademy.net/Listen on Apple, Spotify & all major platforms.🎧 Listen now to Episode 9 of The Soccer Ladder — streaming wherever you get your podcasts.
Transcribe →Episode 8 — Legendary Stories & Real Talk with Shep Messing
Apr 17, 202500:39:43Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Soccer Ladder, we're honored to be joined by the iconic Shep Messing — former U.S. Olympic goalkeeper, New York Cosmos star, broadcaster, and lifelong ambassador of the game. Known for his time alongside legends like Pelé and Beckenbauer, Shep brings not only decades of soccer experience but also unfiltered wisdom, powerful stories, and refreshing perspective on what the game is truly about.What You’ll Hear in This Episode:The surprising truth: Shep didn’t start playing soccer until age 16How cross-training in multiple sports helped shape his unique pathWhat it was really like to play with Pelé — on and off the fieldThe moment that changed everything: Saving three penalty kicks to keep Pelé’s final season aliveWhy Shep believes American youth soccer is overcoached and under-inspiredLessons from Harvard to the Olympics — and how he learned to play with heart, not pressureWhy goalkeepers need technique over exhaustion and the key to mastering reactionsShep’s powerful take on parents in youth soccer: "Drop them off and go get a coffee"What he really thinks about skipping college to go proLocker room stories, Vaseline pranks, and a moment with Muhammad AliKey Takeaways:There’s no one-size-fits-all path in soccer — and Shep proves that sometimes the most unconventional journeys make for the best storiesCreativity, courage, and joy are essential to growing as a playerMistakes are part of the game; it's how you respond that defines your characterLet kids fall in love with the game on their termsStars grow in teams, not solo. Whether you're a parent, coach, or player — it's all about the bigger pictureQuotes We’re Still Thinking About:"Dream big and never quit.""Every time someone yells what to do, it takes away your ability to think.""If you're good enough, they'll find you.""You can't let one setback define you."This episode is filled with inspiration, honesty, and stories you won't hear anywhere else. Whether you're a player, parent, coach, or fan — this one's for you.📲 Follow us here: 🔹 Instagram: @shepmessing🔹 Megan linke : @liandmeinnyc🔹Liam: @Liamlinke93Follow on YouTube:YouTube: @liandmeinNYCListen on Apple, Spotify & all major platforms.🎧 Listen now to Episode 8 of The Soccer Ladder — streaming wherever you get your podcasts.#TheSoccerLadder #ShepMessing #Pele #RedBullAcademy #SoccerStories #YouthSoccer #MLS #GoalkeeperTips #SoccerPodcast #ParentingAthletes
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