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.
For more follow us along @liandmeinnyc on YouTube and Instagram
*Don't forget to give us a review below
27episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Episode 7: Turning Setbacks into Stepping Stones with Heath Pearce
Apr 10, 202500:29:25Tap to summarizeIn this week’s episode of The Soccer Ladder, we sit down with Heath Pearce—a seasoned pro who’s played in the MLS, Germany’s Bundesliga, and earned 35 caps with the U.S. Men’s National Team. Heath unpacks his journey from breaking his leg at age 16 to turning pro, what he’s learned from being cut, benched, and doubted—and how those moments shaped his mentality and career.Whether you’re a player, coach, or parent, this episode is packed with powerful mindset shifts, real talk about the emotional ups and downs of soccer, and tactical advice for navigating the complex journey from youth soccer to the pro level.In This Episode We Cover:Heath’s journey through MLS, Bundesliga, and the U.S. National TeamHow to mentally handle setbacks like injury, being benched, or being cut from a teamThe importance of having short-, mid-, and long-term goalsWhy working backwards from your dream (and staying flexible) is the key to longevityTurning frustration with coaches into motivation and leadershipThe Red Bull System, club culture, and how it shapes the modern gameCreating space for youth to stay in love with the game—even if they don’t go proWhat parents can do to cultivate a soccer culture that supports long-term developmentWhy curiosity is your competitive edge as a player—and how to develop it dailyAdvice for young athletes: being uncomfortable, setting micro-goals, and staying curiousKey Quote: "A coach can make a player’s career—but they should never break it. Unless you let them." – Heath PearceDon’t Miss This If: You’re navigating the pressures of competitive youth soccer, trying to go pro, or supporting a young athlete and want honest, experienced insight on what it really takes. 📲 Follow us here: 🔹 Instagram: @heathpearce For Soccer: www.forsoccer.com🔹 Megan linke : @liandmeinnyc🔹Liam: @Liamlinke93Follow on YouTube: YouTube: @liandmeinNYC Listen on Apple, Spotify & all major platforms.👇 Tune in now and learn what it really takes to climb the soccer ladder. #TheSoccerLadder #YouthSoccer #MLS #SoccerParenting #HeathPearce #SoccerPodcast #RedBullAcademy #PlayerDevelopment #SoccerCulture #SoccerJourney #SoccerGoals
Transcribe →Episode 6: Beyond the Game with Charlie Rugg – From MLS Cup to Life After Soccer
Apr 3, 202500:26:43Tap to summarizeThis week on The Soccer Ladder, we’re joined by former LA Galaxy striker Charlie Rugg—a standout athlete turned artist who shares his incredible soccer journey from small-town sports to winning an MLS Cup and beyond. ⚽🎨Charlie opens up about:Growing up playing multiple sports and why that made him a better soccer playerHis early success as an All-American and first-round MLS draft pickThe harsh transition from college to professional soccer—and what he wishes he had done differentlyHonest reflections on setbacks, self-belief, and the importance of being more than just an athleteWhy watching the game is the most underrated tool for young playersHow life outside of soccer can actually make you better on the pitchPlus, Charlie gives practical, real-talk advice to youth players (and parents!) about pressure, passion, and pursuing big dreams without losing your identity.Whether you’re an aspiring pro or navigating the youth soccer world with your family, this episode is packed with wisdom, heart, and perspective you won’t find anywhere else.🎧 Listen now to hear why Charlie says, “Don’t set your sights too low. Dream big—on AND off the field.”🎧 Available now on Apple, Spotify, and everywhere you listen to podcasts.📲 Follow us here: 🔹 Charlie Rugg: @goodgamecharles🔹 Megan linke : @liandmeinnyc🔹Liam: @Liamlinke93
Transcribe →Ep 5: Navigating College Soccer & Beyond with Coach John Velasco
Mar 27, 202500:49:04Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Soccer Ladder, we sit down with John Velasco, Assistant Men’s Soccer Coach at Temple University, to explore the journey from youth soccer to college — and even the pro level. From growing up in Plainfield to coaching at every level of the game, John's insight is invaluable for players and parents alike navigating the modern soccer landscape.We talk about: John’s journey as a player and how an early injury changed his pathThe evolution of U.S. Soccer and the opportunities in today’s academy systemHow the college recruiting process really works (and what coaches are looking for)The traits every D1 athlete needs: time management, coachability, and mental resilienceWhy development isn’t linear — and how to thrive through setbacksThe truth about highlight reels, TikTok, and getting noticedWhy your GPA can be a game-changer when it comes to scholarshipsThe role of mentorship, holistic development, and being more than just a playerWhether you’re a parent trying to support your child’s dream, or a young athlete chasing the next level, this episode is packed with the kind of advice you won’t want to miss.🎧 Available now on Apple, Spotify, and everywhere you listen to podcasts.📲 Follow us here: 🔹 John Velasco: @Johnsebastian_🔹 Megan linke : @liandmeinnyc🔹Liam: @Liamlinke93Temple Men's Soccer: https://owlsports.com/sports/mens-soccer/roster/coaches/john-velasco/5182#TheSoccerLadder #YouthSoccer #CollegeRecruiting #SoccerPodcast #JohnVelasco #TempleUniversity #D1Soccer #SoccerParents #SoccerJourney #AthleteMindset
Transcribe →EP 4: From 12-Year-Old Prodigy to Champion: Greg Garza on Resilience, Pressure & The Path to Success
Mar 20, 202500:47:11Tap to summarizeGuest: Greg Garza – Former MLS & Liga MX Champion, U.S. National Team Player, Co-Founder of Beyond Goals MentoringIn this episode, we sit down with Greg Garza, a player whose career has taken him across Brazil, Mexico, Portugal, and the U.S., winning championships in both MLS and Liga MX. Greg shares his incredible journey from moving to Brazil at just 12 years old to competing at the highest levels of professional soccer.But what’s even more fascinating is what he’s doing now—helping the next generation of players navigate the highs and lows of the soccer journey through Beyond Goals Mentoring.💡 In this episode, you’ll learn: ✅ What it’s like to leave home at 12 to pursue a professional soccer career ✅ The biggest differences between playing in Brazil, Mexico, and the U.S. ✅ Why hunger, resilience, and leadership matter more than talent ✅ How to handle pressure in high-stakes matches ✅ What separates elite youth players from those who fall off the path ✅ Why coachability, body language, and attitude are game-changersGreg’s insights go beyond soccer—this episode is packed with valuable lessons about adversity, mindset, and personal growth.⚡ If you’re a young player, parent, or coach, this episode is a must-listen!🎧 Listen now! 📲 Follow us here: 🔹 Greg Garza: @gmgarza🔹 Beyond Goals Mentoring: @beyondgoalsmentoring🔹 Megan linke : @liandmeinnyc🔹Liam: @Liamlinke93#TheSoccerLadder #Podcast #GregGarza #BeyondGoalsMentoring #SoccerMindset #PlayerDevelopment #YouthSoccer #EliteAthleteMindset
Transcribe →Ep. 3: A Conversation with Julian Valerio of Fundamental Ball Academy
Mar 13, 202500:29:45Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Soccer Ladder, we sit down with Julian Valerio, founder of Fundamental Ball Academy, to talk about youth player development, soccer IQ, strength training, and the importance of a well-rounded approach to the game. With a rich soccer background, including playing at a high level in the U.S. and abroad, Julian shares his insights on what it takes for young athletes to elevate their game and stand out.⚽ What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Julian’s soccer journey from a D3 All-American to a Hall of FamerThe role of soccer IQ and how young players can develop their game awarenessHow strength, conditioning, and flexibility impact player performanceThe importance of nutrition, rest, and recovery for long-term successWhy mindset, attitude, and coachability are key factors in player developmentHow young players can handle pressure, adversity, and setbacks in the gameThe difference between playing for fun vs. playing to go pro🔹 Memorable Moments:✔️ Julian’s insights on soccer development today vs. when he was growing up✔️ Why effort and attitude are the two things players can control✔️ His perspective on balancing training volume with quality and recovery✔️ The importance of playing freely, making mistakes, and learning from them✔️ His advice for young players and parents navigating academy soccer🎧 If you’re a soccer parent or a young athlete looking to level up, this episode is packed with valuable insights you won’t want to miss!👉 Subscribe, rate, and review the podcast! Let us know what resonated with you the most.📲 Follow Julian Valerio & Fundamental Ball Academy:🔹Julian Valerio: (@)🔹 Megan- (@liandmeinnyc)🔹 Liam: (@Liamlinke93)And if you want more on Liandmeinnyc go to our website here
Transcribe →Ep. 2: From the NFL to New Adventures – A Conversation with Vernon Davis
Mar 6, 202500:15:25Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Soccer Ladder, we welcome NFL legend Vernon Davis! As a Super Bowl champion, two-time Pro Bowler, and one of the greatest tight ends in the game, Vernon shares his incredible journey from high school football to the NFL and beyond. He talks about the mindset, work ethic, and dedication required to succeed in professional sports and offers valuable advice for young athletes dreaming of going pro.🏈 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How Vernon overcame his fears and started football in 8th gradeThe moment he realized football could be his careerHis iconic game-winning catch against the New Orleans SaintsHow he handled doubt, setbacks, and pressure at the highest levelHis NFL Draft experience and what it felt like to be a top pickHis best advice for young athletes & their parentsWhy hard work & dedication are non-negotiables for successWhat Vernon is doing after football—from real estate to acting🔹 Memorable Moments:✔️ Vernon’s inspiring mindset—how he trained, prepared, and pushed himself to greatness✔️ The power of belief, resilience, and surrounding yourself with the right people✔️ His hilarious story about being "too scared" to wear a football helmet✔️ The balance between coaching & parenting as his son follows in his footsteps✔️ His new ventures—from flipping houses to filmmaking🎧 Don’t miss this incredible conversation with one of the most inspiring athletes out there!👉 Subscribe, rate, and review the podcast—let us know your favorite takeaway!📲 Follow Vernon Davis & The Podcast: 🔹Vernon Davis: (@Vernondavis85)🔹 Megan- (@liandmeinnyc)🔹 Liam: (@Liamlinke93)And if you want more on Liandmeinnyc go to our website here
Transcribe →From Academy to Pro – A Journey with Serge Ngoma of the New York Red Bulls
Feb 27, 202500:28:29Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Soccer Ladder with Li & Me, we sit down with Serge Ngoma, a homegrown player for the New York Red Bulls, to talk about his journey from youth soccer to signing his first professional contract at just 16 years old! Serge shares his experience of moving through the Red Bulls Academy system, the challenges of balancing school and soccer, and the mindset needed to succeed at the professional sports level.⚽ What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Serge’s path from youth soccer to the New York Red Bulls AcademyThe pivotal moment when he knew soccer was more than just a gameThe role of private training, nutrition, and recovery in his developmentHow Serge dealt with injuries, setbacks, and doubts while staying focusedThe importance of a strong support system—family, faith, and mentorsHis advice for young athletes and parents navigating the soccer journeyMemorable Moments:✔️ Serge’s first Academy training invite after scoring a hat-trick✔️ Playing against top teams in England as a young player✔️ The emotional experience of making his pro debut at Red Bull Arena✔️ His biggest soccer idols and where he sees himself in five years✔️ The best piece of advice for young players & parents🎧 Tune in to hear Serge’s inspiring story, his advice for young athletes, and what it truly takes to make it in professional soccer!👉 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the The Soccer Ladder with Li & Me podcast! Let us know what you think in the comments.📲 Follow Serge Ngoma & The Podcast:🔹 Serge Ngoma: (Sergengoma_)🔹 Megan- (@liandmeinnyc)🔹 Liam: (@Liamlinke93)And if you want more on Liandmeinnyc go to our website here
Transcribe →