In this episode of The Soccer Ladder, we're honored to be joined by the iconic Shep Messing — former U.S. Olympic goalkeeper, New York Cosmos star, broadcaster, and lifelong ambassador of the game. Known for his time alongside legends like Pelé and Beckenbauer, Shep brings not only decades of soccer experience but also unfiltered wisdom, powerful stories, and refreshing perspective on what the game is truly about.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
- The surprising truth: Shep didn’t start playing soccer until age 16
- How cross-training in multiple sports helped shape his unique path
- What it was really like to play with Pelé — on and off the field
- The moment that changed everything: Saving three penalty kicks to keep Pelé’s final season alive
- Why Shep believes American youth soccer is overcoached and under-inspired
- Lessons from Harvard to the Olympics — and how he learned to play with heart, not pressure
- Why goalkeepers need technique over exhaustion and the key to mastering reactions
- Shep’s powerful take on parents in youth soccer: "Drop them off and go get a coffee"
- What he really thinks about skipping college to go pro
- Locker room stories, Vaseline pranks, and a moment with Muhammad Ali
Key Takeaways:
- There’s no one-size-fits-all path in soccer — and Shep proves that sometimes the most unconventional journeys make for the best stories
- Creativity, courage, and joy are essential to growing as a player
- Mistakes are part of the game; it's how you respond that defines your character
- Let kids fall in love with the game on their terms
- Stars grow in teams, not solo. Whether you're a parent, coach, or player — it's all about the bigger picture
Quotes We’re Still Thinking About:
- "Dream big and never quit."
- "Every time someone yells what to do, it takes away your ability to think."
- "If you're good enough, they'll find you."
- "You can't let one setback define you."
This episode is filled with inspiration, honesty, and stories you won't hear anywhere else. Whether you're a player, parent, coach, or fan — this one's for you.
📲 Follow us here:
🔹 Instagram: @shepmessing
🔹 Megan linke : @liandmeinnyc
🔹Liam: @Liamlinke93
Follow on YouTube:
YouTube: @liandmeinNYC
Listen on Apple, Spotify & all major platforms.
🎧 Listen now to Episode 8 of The Soccer Ladder — streaming wherever you get your podcasts.
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