Advertise on podcast: The Next Level Training Soccer Podcast with host Aaron Byrd and Jeff Suffolk

The the 2026 Series leading up to the World Cup, Aaron and Jeff are searching for the common threads amongst the most influential youth soccer coaches in America. On today's podcast, we have Cam Baker, USSF A Licensed MLS Next Academy Directory at Midwest United in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

In Episode 44, Jeff and Aaron talk about the impact of the Pygmalion Effect as a coach and as a parent.

Probably the most controversial podcast questions we've encountered. Tune in for hot takes on the cost of youth sports and Aaron and Jeff's thoughts on big mistakes parents and players are making.

Happy 2026! This is a huge year for American Youth Soccer and we're here for all of it. We're kicking off the season with live questions and diving into the impact of the next 12 months on the future of American development. Buckle Up! It's going to be a wild year!

Every team has talented players. Every club boasts about their "skilled" roster. But why do so many technically gifted players never reach their potential while others with less natural ability become champions? In this episode, Aaron Byrd and Jeff Suffolk challenge the obsession with winning at all cost in American youth soccer and make the case that character - not talent - separates good players from great ones.

Hall of Famer, Aaron Byrd and dad coach extraordinaire Jeff Suffolk have a pre-turkey dinner and dive into some hot questions from parents about technically skilled coaches, spending time in the gym and other takes.  They explore the concept of becoming the five people who are closest to you. Jeff gives us a story time tale from the Alaskan oceans and Aaron introduces us to the pro training group. 

In this episode, we have CEO of Tosch.ai, Shawne Robinson, on the podcast to talk about the power of data when in the recruiting process. It's a brand new tool to empower players and parents along a journey that is confusing, intense and mostly decided on gut decisions.  

In Episode 38, Aaron and Jeff dive into the concept of ranking coaches, what's the most important quality in a coach, how to rig rankings and Turkey 3v3 Dream Teams. There's a lot of nuggets to find in this episode on believing in your players and providing an environment to thrive.

The boys talk about club fees, training grounds limitations, pickleball and how to thrive through winter training.

It's more than kicking a ball into the back of the net, it's the fabric of our lives, it's our family time, our purpose. Aaron and Jeff talk Major Awards, what level of training is right for your player and the purpose of life...which is of course futbol.

Juan Carlos Morales, the first American coach to work in Spain's División de Honor, breaks down the myths about European soccer development and reveals why the "free soccer in Europe" narrative isn't reality. We dive deep into the technical training differences between Spanish academies and American youth programs, exploring why Spain produces world-class players while the US struggles to develop technical talent. Plus, Juan Carlos makes the case for why promotion and relegation in American youth soccer would revolutionize competition and player development across the country.

End-of-season soccer drama is in full swing - tensions are high, everyone is down on their team/coach/players/sidelines, and parents are already shopping for new teams. Your Individual Development Plan meetings are coming up and you better know what to say, because the grass isn't always greener on the other side. Learn how to navigate the chaos, handle the tough conversations, and wind down your season without setting the world on fire.

Aaron and Jeff dive into what's for dinner...or breakfast. Want your kids to eat a little healthier? Have them tune in. And also, Aaron talks accountability and gets a few customer service experiences off his chest. Enjoy!

In Episode 32, Aaron and Jeff focus on the mental side of the game, growth mindset and the role of the modern coach.

On Episode 31, we invite Professional Poker Player turned dad coach, James Davis on to the NLT Podcast. He is trying to answer the question, "If it's possible for an uncoordinated 12 year old to catch and pass many of his peers with no prior soccer experience essentially with YouTube videos and a 100 sqft area in an unfinished basement, can this formula be refined and replicated for other players? Does an even better formula exist?