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 23: Perseverance, Purpose & Building Community Beyond the Game with Mike Chabala
In this inspiring episode of The Soccer Ladder, we sit down with Mike Chabala (@michaelchabala) — former Houston Dynamo defender, two-time MLS Cup Champion, and founder of @sphere.club — to explore the full-circle journey from professional athlete to purpose-driven entrepreneur. ⚽️
From playing in Europe at just eight years old, to earning his way onto one of the best teams in MLS history, to now creating a global movement through Sphere, Mike’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and heart.
He shares what it truly takes to stay committed through the highs and lows of the professional game — and how that same discipline can be applied to business, wellness, and life.
Key Takeaways:
🌍From Europe to the MLS: Mike’s unconventional start — moving abroad alone at age 8 — and how early adversity shaped his mindset.
💪Perseverance through setbacks: The reality of not playing for four years in the league and what kept him committed to his dream.
⚽️Advice for youth players: Why technical mastery, daily discipline, and a relentless work ethic matter more than talent alone.
🧠Building community through Sphere: How he transformed his love of soccer and fitness into Sphere, a global fitness movement blending sport, wellness, and connection.
💡Life after the game: Redefining success beyond the field through entrepreneurship and personal growth.
💬Favorite Quote
“It’s always about what you do when nobody’s watching — not what you do at practice when everyone’s there.”
🔗 Connect with Mike & Sphere
📸 Instagram: @michaelchabala
| @sphere.club
🌐 Website: www.sphere.club
⚽️ Connect with The Soccer Ladder
🎧 Listen to Episode 23 of The Soccer Ladder wherever you get your podcasts.
Hosted by @meganlinkeofficial & @liamlinke18
Follow the show: @thesoccerladder