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 33 | Jose Angulo (New York Cosmos, USL MVP)
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A conversation on player pathways, local talent, and building the next generation through community.
Hosts
Megan
Liam
About This Episode
In Episode 33 of The Soccer Ladder, we sit down with Jose Angulo (@j_angulo), Scout and Manager of Youth Partnerships for the New York Cosmos (@nycosmos).
A North Jersey native from Paterson, Jose Angulo’s journey through the local soccer scene led him to a professional career — where he was named USL Championship MVP. Today, he’s giving back to the game by identifying talent, building pathways, and strengthening relationships between clubs and communities across New Jersey.
We also touch on the legacy of Pelé (@pele) and the lasting impact the Cosmos brand has had on the global game.
In This Episode
- Jose Angulo’s journey from Paterson, NJ to the professional level
- What it takes to stand out in the New Jersey soccer landscape
- The transition from player to scout and youth development leader
- How the New York Cosmos identify and develop talent
- The importance of local pipelines and community relationships
- What scouts are actually looking for in young players
- Why exposure alone isn’t enough — and what really separates players
- The role of mindset, consistency, and coachability
- How youth clubs can better connect with higher-level opportunities
- The balance between development and competition
- The long-term vision for soccer growth in North Jersey
Key Takeaways
✔ Your environment matters — but your habits matter more
✔ Exposure doesn’t guarantee opportunity — preparation does
✔ Relationships in soccer open doors
✔ Development pathways are not one-size-fits-all
✔ The best players are consistent, coachable, and disciplined
Notable Mentions
- New York Cosmos legacy and global impact
- Pelé’s influence on the club and the sport
- Growth of soccer in North Jersey
- Youth-to-pro development pathways
Connect
Jose Angulo
📸 Instagram: @j_angulo
New York Cosmos
📸 Instagram: @nycosmos
🔗 https://t.mtrbio.com/nycosmos
🔗 www.nycsomos.com
Pelé
📸 Instagram: @pele
🔗 www.pelebrand.com
🎙 Hosted by @meganlinkeofficial & @liamlinke18
🎧 Listen now on The Soccer Ladder