The Soccer Ladder with Li & Me

🎙 Episode 19 — Tristan Bowen: From First-Ever MLS Homegrown to Empowering the Next Generation

• Megan • Season 1 • Episode 19

In this episode, Megan Linke sits down with Tristan Bowen, the first-ever MLS homegrown player, who went pro at just 17 with LA Galaxy. From training alongside icons like David Beckham and Landon Donovan to launching a media brand that gives voice to the athlete journey—Tristan’s story is filled with real-world lessons for players and parents alike.

Inside the episode:

  • How Tristan’s path to LA Galaxy unfolded—and the mindset that got him there
  • Why he believes players should pursue coaching licenses early
  • His time training in Brazil and what it taught him about street-style passion
  • Mental health, self-motivation, and bouncing back from hard moments
  • How to build your own support system as a young athlete
  • Advice for parents navigating their child’s soccer path
  • The purpose behind his new platform, ⁠@aproslifemediadotcom⁠, and why athlete storytelling matters more than ever

Plus:

  • The most underrated player he’s ever played with
  • His take on Messi vs. Ronaldo
  • The one thing he wishes every young player knew
  • What Beckham was really like off the field


 Whether you’re an academy parent, youth player, coach, or soccer fan—this episode offers rare insights you won’t find anywhere else.


Guest: Tristan Bowen Instagram: ⁠@tristanbowen⁠ 

TikTok: ⁠@tristanbowenn⁠ 

YouTube: ⁠@tristanbowen⁠ 

Media Brand: ⁠@aproslifemediadotcom⁠ 

Host: Megan Linke ⁠@meganlinkeofficial⁠ 

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