Landon Donovan - USMNT Soccer Star + Author

Landon Donovan - USMNT Soccer Star + Author

From The Courageous Podcast with Ryan Berman by Ryan Berman

April 1, 2026 · 39 min · Episode 261

About this episode

Landon Donovan discusses his memoir and the challenges he faced both on and off the soccer field.

For years, Landon Donovan—the face of U.S. soccer and one of the most decorated players in the sport’s history—was defined by what he did on the field. In this conversation with Ryan, he shares the story behind his new book, Landon: A Memoir, and what it took to finally tell the truth about his life off the pitch. He reflects on the pressure of carrying expectations, the complicated relationship with his father, and the quiet struggles that existed alongside a historic career. They talk about why opening up about mental health was the hardest part of writing the book, and how his definition of success has shifted from achievement to impact. Donovan also looks ahead to what matters now, from fatherhood to his mission to reshape youth sports in America.

People in this episode

Host: Ryan Berman

Guest: Landon Donovan

Topics covered

  • soccer
  • mental health
  • fatherhood
  • youth sports
  • success
  • personal growth

Keywords

  • Landon Donovan
  • USMNT
  • memoir
  • mental health
  • youth sports
  • success
  • fatherhood

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Landon: A Memoir

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