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 26: The Exchange FC (Grassroots to Pro Pathways)
Local Football, Access, and the Future of the American Player Pathway
In Episode 26 of The Soccer Ladder, Megan sits down for a solo-hosted conversation with the voice behind @TheExchangeFc a platform deeply rooted in local football culture and grassroots storytelling.
With Liam at school for the day, this episode becomes a deep dive into the local soccer ecosystem, access to the game, and how untapped talent across the U.S. could change the future of American soccer if given the right opportunities.
This conversation challenges the traditional pay-to-play model and explores what real inclusion, early access, and community-based development could look like.
🎙 Episode Highlights
Why some of the most gifted players grow up playing with no lines, no shoes, and no formal fields — yet possess elite instincts
How access, not talent, is often the biggest barrier in U.S. youth soccer
The importance of lower-level entry points connected to elite academies
Why free, local training programs in parks and city spaces matter
How clubs like New York Red Bulls and New York City FC can identify talent earlier through community presence
What makes the Red Bull system so unique — structure, consistency, and a unified philosophy
Thoughts on MLS teams, player development, and who’s standing out locally right now
A candid look at who has the brighter future: Red Bulls or NYCFC?
🔍 Topics We Explore
Grassroots soccer vs. elite academy environments
Inner-city programs as scouting pipelines
Creating sustainable access without sacrificing standards
European development influence on American systems
Why structure and identity matter at every level of a club
The long-term impact of investing in community football
👥 Hosts & Guest
Host:
🎙 Megan Linke – @meganlinkeofficial
Co-hosted normally with her son Liam (Red Bulls Academy), who was at school for this episode
Guest:
⚽️ Exchange FC – @theexchangefc
Local football media voice covering the culture, players, and stories shaping the game from the ground up
🎧 Listen Now
Available on all major podcast platforms.
Follow along for more conversations focused on development, mindset, access, and the real path to the top of the game.