The Soccer Ladder with Li & Me
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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The Soccer Ladder with Li & Me
Episode 11: Soccer Dreams to Reality ft. Larrys Mabiala
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 raw truth of what it takes to go pro, the differences in development between Europe and the U.S., and the powerful lessons passed down from his father—both as a player and a man.
Whether you're a player, parent, or coach—this episode is packed with powerful perspective on mindset, development, and dreaming big without losing your grounding.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
⚽️ The difference between talent and mental resilience
📚 What the French academy system does right (and how U.S. clubs can improve) 🧠 Why the “3 D’s” (Determination, Dedication, Discipline) matter more than talent alone
📘 What inspired Larisse to write Soccer Dreams to Reality and who it’s for
🗣️ How parents and coaches can make or break a player’s future from the sidelines
🎯 When self-motivation should begin—and what happens if it doesn’t
A Few Standout Quotes:
“At 14, I wasn't just chasing a dream—I had a goal. I wasn’t leaving home for nothing.” “If soccer in Europe was pay-to-play like in the U.S., I never would’ve gone pro.” “Talent got me seen. Mentality got me signed.” “My father challenged me to juggle with my left foot—and that changed everything.”
📲 Stay Connected:
Guest: @mynameislarrys
Host: @liandmeinnyc
Co-host: @liamlinke93
🎙️ Subscribe and don’t forget to leave a review. It helps more families, coaches, and players find us!
👉 New episodes every Thursday
www.liandmeinnyc.com
His Book: Soccer Dreams to Reality
Website:
https://www.larrysrecommends.com