The Soccer Ladder with Li & Me

In this episode, 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 n...

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. Larrys' path is one of grit, resilience, and generational impact. He shares the r...

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. They dive deep into:  ⚽ Their personal journeys from small villages and top European academies...

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 episode,...

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 t...

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. Whether you’re a player,...

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. ⚽🎨 Charlie opens up about: Growing up playing multiple sports and why that made him a better soccer player His early success as an All-American and first-round MLS draft pick The...

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. We talk about:  John’s jour...

Guest: Greg Garza – Former MLS & Liga MX Champion, U.S. National Team Player, Co-Founder of Beyond Goals Mentoring In 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 high...

In 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 ele...

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...

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 succee...