The Soccer Ladder with Li & Me
The Soccer Ladder with Li & Me
Podcast Description
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
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast focuses on themes such as player development, the transition from youth soccer to professional careers, and the importance of support systems and training regimens, with episodes including Serge Ngoma’s journey from academy to professional player which highlights challenges and successes within the soccer landscape.
The Soccer Ladder is a soccer media and player-development podcast hosted by Megan Linke, founder of The Soccer Ladder, with appearances from her son Liam. Through conversations with professional players, coaches and industry leaders, the show explores elite youth development, mindset, pathways and the modern game.
Megan:
@meganlinkeofficial
Liam:
@liamlinke18
Tim Howard—Everton and USMNT legend, known as the “Secretary of Defense”—joins Megan Linke for Episode 40 of The Soccer Ladder. With a record 16 saves against Belgium at the 2014 World Cup, Howard delivered one of soccer’s most unforgettable goalkeeping performances.
But what does it take to reach that level—and what should young players and their parents understand about the journey?
From his beginnings in ODP and with the MetroStars to Manchester United, Everton, and the USMNT, Tim shares his perspective on youth development, setbacks, self-doubt, and the mentality needed to keep moving forward. He also opens up about living with Tourette syndrome and navigating the sidelines as a soccer dad.
In this episode:
• How today’s academy pathway compares with Tim’s upbringing
• Why it’s difficult to predict success at 13 or 14
• When to fight for your place and when to find a new environment
• What separates young players at the highest level
• How parents can support their children without taking over
Plus, Tim answers Liam’s question about his advice for a 13- or 14-year-old dreaming of going pro—and what he would tell their parents.
Follow:
Tim Howard: @timhow1
Megan Linke: @meganlinkeofficial
Liam Linke: @liamlinke18
Subscribe to The Soccer Ladder for more insights from professional players, coaches, and leaders in soccer.
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