The Soccer Ladder with Li & Me is a podcast dedicated to guiding young soccer players on their journey to the professional level. Hosted by Megan Linke, a dedicated soccer mom with deep connections in the sport, the show features interviews with professional players, coaches, and industry experts. Each episode explores personal stories, challenges, and insights into the pathways from youth soccer to the pro ranks, offering valuable advice for aspiring athletes and their families.
Ep 1: From Academy to Pro – A Journey with Serge Ngoma of the New York Red Bulls
In 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 level.
Ep 2: Episode Title: From the NFL to New Adventures – A Conversation with Vernon Davis
In 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.⚽
Ep 3: Developing the Complete Player – Conversation with Julian Valerio of Fundamental Futbol Academy
In this episode of The Soccer Ladder, we sit down with Julian Valerio, founder of Fundamental Futbol 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.
Ep 4: From 12-Year-Old Prodigy to Champion: Greg Garza on Resilience, Pressure & The Path to Success
In this episode of The Soccer Ladder, 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.
Ep 5: Navigating College Soccer & Beyond with Coach John Velasco
In 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.
This 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. ⚽🎨
In 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.
In 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.
In 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 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.
That’s why I’m so honored to be featured on @iheartradio @xensams, airing this Saturday at 9PM EST on @wor710– The Voice of New York, and Sunday on Traverse TV at 1PM EST + YouTube at 2PM EST.
This week on The Soccer Ladder, we’re joined by the incredible Larrys Mabiala @mynameislarrys)—former PSG Academy player and Portland Timbers pro, now author of Soccer Dreams to Reality. We dive into his journey from juggling a ball in a tiny Paris apartment to signing a professional contract at just 17.
Ep 12: From Player to Pro Developer: Inside Belgium’s Elite Training with Alessio Carlone
In this episode of The Soccer Ladder, we sit down with Alessio Carlone, a former professional footballer and co-founder of FPD Academy in Genk, Belgium. Alessio shares his inspiring journey from signing his first pro contract at 16, navigating international club moves, and ultimately being forced to retire early due to a genetic heart condition. But Alessio didn’t stop there—he channeled his passion into building a next-level training academy that focuses on both the technical and human development of players.
That’s why I’m so honored to be featured on @iheartradio @xensams, airing this Saturday at 9PM EST on @wor710– The Voice of New York, and Sunday on Traverse TV at 1PM EST + YouTube at 2PM EST.
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