Explore every episode of the podcast NXTVB
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 57: Hidden Truths of D1 Volleyball Recruiting from 3 Dads (Part 2) | 24 Sep 2026 | 00:31:23 | |
How much should parents actually be involved in their daughter’s volleyball recruiting process? In Part 2 of Susan’s conversation with three dads of 2028 Division I commits, the conversation shifts from what happened during recruiting to what it was really like to navigate the process as a parent. The dads share the roles they took on behind the scenes, from managing spreadsheets, emails, film, travel, and school research to helping their daughters think through what they actually wanted in a college experience. They also get candid about the harder part: knowing when to stop coaching, listen more, manage their own stress, and give their daughters space to simply be teenagers. They also talk about what happens after the commitment, why June 15th does not define an athlete, and the importance of running your own race instead of comparing your recruiting journey to someone else’s. The conversation closes with practical advice for looking beyond brand-name schools, evaluating where an athlete realistically fits, and using tools like Massey Ratings and virtual campus tours to discover programs families may otherwise overlook. If you’re a parent wondering how to support your daughter without taking over her recruiting journey, this episode offers an honest look at what these dads learned along the way. Chapters 00:00 – Welcome back to Part 2 01:20 – What role should dads play in recruiting? 03:20 – Helping your athlete figure out what she really wants 05:20 – When being the coach gets in the way of being dad 07:40 – Protecting time for athletes to just be kids 08:35 – Who was actually the most stressed? 12:30 – What the dads will miss about recruiting 15:45 – What happens after your athlete commits? 17:30 – Final advice for parents navigating recruiting 19:20 – June 15th does not define your athlete 21:45 – Stop chasing only the brand-name schools 23:00 – Using Massey Ratings to find the right competitive fit 27:20 – Using virtual campus tours to narrow your list
Jason Wender Matthew Delaney Brett Baatrup Connect with the Players: Amaya Simon: @amayaclassof2028 Carolina Delaney: @carolinadelaneyvb Liv Wender: @livwendervolleyball Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| Bonus Episode: Wrigley Field Was Bigger Than the Slippery Court | 15 Sep 2026 | 00:30:52 | |
What was it actually like to be inside Wrigley Field for one of the most talked-about volleyball events of the year? In this bonus episode, Susan takes you behind the scenes of her experience at the Wrigley Field volleyball matches in Chicago. From attending Mizzou’s practice and getting media access to watching the matches from field level, Susan shares what she saw firsthand and what the experience was really like inside the stadium. She talks about the unique challenges of playing volleyball outdoors, the elevated court, the atmosphere inside Wrigley, and what was happening from a fan’s perspective when court conditions eventually stopped play. Susan also shares what stood out to her about the athletes and their willingness to adapt, help find solutions, and make the most of an incredibly unusual situation. But this episode is about more than what went wrong. Susan reflects on what it meant to see more than 40,000 volleyball fans show up for an event like this and how far the sport has come from the days when she had to record Olympic volleyball on VHS in the middle of the night just to watch it. Was everything perfect? No. But Susan believes there’s a lot the volleyball world can learn from Wrigley and even more to be excited about when it comes to where the sport is headed. Chapters 00:00 – Why Susan went to Wrigley Field Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 56: Hidden Truths of D1 Volleyball Recruiting from 3 Dads (Part 1) | 10 Sep 2026 | 00:36:18 | |
What does the volleyball recruiting process actually look like from the parent side? In Part 1 of this two-part conversation, Susan sits down with three volleyball dads whose daughters recently committed to Division I programs in the class of 2028. Each came into volleyball with experience in other sports, and each quickly discovered that college volleyball recruiting operates very differently. They share what surprised them most about the process, what happened when June 15th arrived, and just how quickly calls, emails, offers, and decisions started moving. They also talk about college camps, visiting campuses early, building and narrowing a target school list, and trying to understand where their daughters realistically fit within the national recruiting landscape. Susan also breaks down why recruiting can feel so subjective in volleyball, why measurable stats only tell part of the story, and why gaining clarity early can help families spend their time, energy, and resources more strategically. If you’re a parent trying to understand what may be coming next in your daughter’s recruiting process, this episode gives you an honest look at what these families learned while going through it in real time. Chapters 00:00 – Susan’s recruiting support and Volleyball Recruiting School About the Guests: Jason Wender Matthew Delaney Brett Baatrup Connect with the Players:
Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 55: Inside Mizzou Volleyball with Dawn Sullivan: Recruiting, Culture & Wrigley Field | 03 Sep 2026 | 00:46:15 | |
What does an SEC head coach really look for when evaluating recruits? In this episode, Susan sits down with University of Missouri head coach Dawn Sullivan to talk about recruiting, culture, and what she’s building at Mizzou. Dawn shares why talent is only one piece of the evaluation process and what she notices about an athlete’s competitiveness, resilience, communication, coachability, and how they respond when things don’t go their way. They also dive into how Dawn rebuilt Mizzou’s roster, the role the transfer portal has played in the program, and why finding the right people and creating genuine relationships are at the center of her recruiting philosophy. Dawn gives athletes and parents a behind-the-scenes look at the things college coaches may be evaluating that recruits don’t always realize. Then the conversation heads to Wrigley Field. Dawn shares how Mizzou was selected for the SEC-Big Ten Challenge, how the team has prepared to play outdoors, and what she hopes fans see when Mizzou takes the court on one of volleyball’s biggest stages. Whether you’re navigating recruiting or simply excited about where college volleyball is headed, this episode offers an inside look at what it takes to build a program where talent, culture, and the right fit all matter. Chapters 00:00 – Why this Mizzou conversation is special About the Guest: Dawn Sullivan is the head coach of Mizzou Volleyball, where she has quickly helped reestablish the Tigers as a contender in the SEC. Sullivan took over the program in December 2022 and led Mizzou to back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances in her first two seasons, including a run to the Sweet 16 in 2024. She was named SEC Coach of the Year in her first season and AVCA Central Region Coach of the Year in 2024. Now entering her fourth season at Mizzou, Sullivan has compiled a 57–33 record with the Tigers and recently signed a contract extension through the 2029 season. Before Mizzou, Sullivan spent five seasons as the head coach at UNLV, where she built the Rebels into one of the Mountain West's top programs. She went 109–38, led UNLV to five straight postseason appearances, two Mountain West championships and the 2021 NIVC Championship, while earning Mountain West Coach of the Year honors twice. Prior to UNLV, Sullivan spent 13 seasons on staff at Iowa State. A former All-American at Kansas State, she helped lead the Wildcats to four straight NCAA Tournament appearances as a player and was inducted into the Kansas State Athletics Hall of Fame in 2016. Connect with Dawn:
Link to the book: Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 54: Your Volleyball Career Can Build More Than a Resume with Bella Bergmark (Part 2) | 27 Aug 2026 | 00:43:11 | |
What if volleyball could help you build opportunities that last long after your playing career ends? In Part 2 of Susan’s conversation with professional volleyball player Bella Bergmark, they shift the conversation off the court and into NIL, social media, personal branding, and what athletes can start building while they’re still playing. Bella shares how she went from being skeptical of social media to growing an audience, working with brands, and creating income through content. She explains why athletes don’t need a massive following to get started, what brands are actually looking for, and how sharing her own experiences with burnout and mental health helped her connect with thousands of other athletes. They also get practical about overcoming the fear of posting, staying consistent, approaching brands, working with agencies, and creating content that fits into an already busy athlete schedule. More than anything, Bella and Susan explore how athletes can use the opportunities available today to build skills, income, relationships, and a personal brand that can create more options when their playing career eventually ends. Chapters 00:00 – Building opportunities beyond volleyball About the Guest: Bella Bergmark is a professional volleyball player and coach originally from San Francisco. She played her undergraduate volleyball at UC Berkeley before transferring to the University of Texas, where she won two national championships. Since turning pro, Bella has competed across three professional seasons — in Puerto Rico, France, and most recently with LOVB Austin, where her team won the league championship last season. Beyond competing, Bella runs volleyball clinics around the country each year and coaches athletes online through her program, the Bergmark Performance Academy, offering personalized film review and 1-on-1 coaching for players looking to take their game to the next level. She's also active on social media, sharing volleyball tips, strength and conditioning content, and volleyball humor with her audience. Off the court, she lives with her dog Freyja and her cat Mochi. Connect with Bella: LOVB Website: https://www.lovb.com/teams/lovb-austin-volleyball Instagram:@bella.bergmark Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 53: From Overlooked Recruit to National Champion with Bella Bergmark (Part 1) | 20 Aug 2026 | 00:28:11 | |
Bella Bergmark’s volleyball journey is proof that being overlooked early does not mean you are behind. In Part 1 of this conversation, Susan sits down with Bella to talk about the path that took her from being a developing recruit in the Bay Area to UC Berkeley, the University of Texas, two national championships, and eventually a professional volleyball career. Bella opens up about changing positions during recruiting, dealing with performance anxiety, redshirting at Cal, navigating the disruption of COVID, and reaching a point where she knew she wanted more from her volleyball experience. She shares what pushed her to enter the transfer portal, how quickly Texas came calling, and what it was like stepping into a gym filled with All-Americans and competing for a role on a championship team. They also talk about the coaches who believed in Bella before she fully believed in herself, learning to trust the process, and how taking a chance on herself ultimately opened the door to a career she never imagined when she was a high school athlete. Today, Bella has played professionally in Puerto Rico, France, and with LOVB Austin, where her team won the league championship last season. If you’ve ever felt overlooked, behind, or unsure where your recruiting journey is headed, Bella’s story is a powerful reminder that your first opportunity does not have to be your final destination. Chapters 00:00 – From an overlooked recruit to Cal 04:20 – Bella’s recruiting journey and position change 07:35 – Arriving at Cal and fighting for playing time 12:25 – When volleyball stopped feeling fun 16:40 – Deciding to enter the transfer portal 20:05 – Why Bella took the chance on Texas 23:15 – The coach who believed in her 25:15 – Building belief and detaching from outcomes 28:15 – From college volleyball to playing professionally
Bella Bergmark is a professional volleyball player and coach originally from San Francisco. She played her undergraduate volleyball at UC Berkeley before transferring to the University of Texas, where she won two national championships. Since turning pro, Bella has competed across three professional seasons — in Puerto Rico, France, and most recently with LOVB Austin, where her team won the league championship last season. Beyond competing, Bella runs volleyball clinics around the country each year and coaches athletes online through her program, the Bergmark Performance Academy, offering personalized film review and 1-on-1 coaching for players looking to take their game to the next level. She's also active on social media, sharing volleyball tips, strength and conditioning content, and volleyball humor with her audience. Off the court, she lives with her dog Freyja and her cat Mochi. Connect with Bella: LOVB Website: https://www.lovb.com/teams/lovb-austin-volleyball Instagram:@bella.bergmark Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 52: The Recruiting Tool Every Volleyball Family Should Know About | 06 Aug 2026 | 00:37:29 | |
Most volleyball families spend hours researching schools, tracking coaches, copying emails, and trying to stay organized throughout the recruiting process. But what if there was a better way? In this episode, Susan sits down with Mike, founder of RallySend, to talk about how a simple goal of helping his own daughter navigate recruiting turned into one of the most innovative tools available for volleyball athletes today. With a background in product development at Snapchat and years in the tech industry, Mike shares how he applied technology to solve some of the biggest pain points families face during recruiting. Beyond the software itself, this conversation explores why volleyball is experiencing incredible momentum, what professional volleyball in the United States means for the next generation of athletes, and why the recruiting process should be about finding the right fit, not simply getting an offer. Whether you're just beginning your recruiting journey or already reaching out to college coaches, this episode is packed with practical insights that can save you time, reduce stress, and help you approach recruiting with more confidence. Chapters 00:00 – Meet Mike and RallySend About the Guest: Mike Su is a volleyball dad, serial entrepreneur, and founder of RallySend.com, the premier tool for streamlining athlete outreach to college coaches. Mike is also a minority owner of the San Francisco Signal, LOVB's newest expansion team. With a 25+ year career as a product executive at companies like Snap, mitú, and Upworthy, he now focuses his expertise on solving the recruiting grind. When he's not building RallySend or editing highlights for his daughter Kylie (2028 scrappy libero with a 4.36 GPA *hint hint* ), he is involved with his local church, Defy Ventures, and Rideback Rise. He lives in Los Angeles with his wife, three kids, and their dog, Boogie. Connect with Mike: Website: www.rallysend.com Instagram: @getrallysend @biggiesu Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 51: Why This D1 Coach Keeps Practice Under Two Hours (Part 2) | 30 Jul 2026 | 00:37:26 | |
What if practice was something your daughter actually wanted to show up for? In Part 2 of her sit-down with University of Nevada head coach Jason Borchin, Susan goes deep into the coaching philosophy and practice model Jason has spent years refining, first at Cal Poly and now at Nevada. This one is a masterclass in what a healthy, high-performing college volleyball environment can actually look like. Jason walks through how his team lifts for 30 to 40 minutes right before practice, why he ditched the traditional dynamic warmup and pepper drill in favor of letting his athletes self-direct their warmup, and why he refuses to run practices longer than two hours. He explains how giving athletes ownership over their own development, from what they choose to work on before practice, to what they stay after for, to what they eat, has become the center of his coaching philosophy. He also shares the simple challenge he gives every player: "Give me two days a week where you stay after 10 minutes and work on something." Susan and Jason then get into the concept of "enough-ness" and why celebration motivation is more sustainable than pushing yourself from a place of lack. Jason shares how becoming a dad, working alongside Cal Poly head coach Caroline Walters, and lots of self-reflection shaped the kind of coach he wants to be, and the kind of coach he would want his own kids to one day play for. He closes with what drew him to Nevada, from Lake Tahoe and ski mountains 15 minutes from campus, to state-of-the-art facilities, to a tight-knit community he can't wait to build a program around. If your daughter is trying to figure out what a healthy college volleyball environment actually looks like, this episode is a must-listen. Chapters 00:00 – Welcome back to Part 2 About the Guest: Jason Borchin is the head coach of the University of Nevada Women's Volleyball program, named to the role in December 2025 after helping lead Cal Poly to a historic Cinderella run to the NCAA Tournament Sweet 16. Over nine seasons at Cal Poly, he served as recruiting coordinator and associate head coach, helping the Mustangs win back-to-back Big West titles and earn multiple NCAA Tournament appearances. Prior to Cal Poly, Jason coached at Notre Dame and Sacramento State, and he brings 18+ years of coaching experience across the intercollegiate, high school, and club levels. He and his wife Jessie (who advises athletes at NXTVB) have three young children. Connect with Jason: Nevada Wolf Pack Volleyball: @nevadavolleyball Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 50: The Right Kid Beats the Best Athlete | 23 Jul 2026 | 00:31:37 | |
What actually separates the athletes who get offered from the ones who don't? For the 50th episode of the podcast, Susan sits down with a good friend and one of the most talked-about names in college volleyball right now: Coach Jason Borchin. Jason was the associate head coach and recruiting coordinator at Cal Poly during their Cinderella Sweet 16 run in 2025, and just weeks later, he was named the head coach at the University of Nevada. Jason takes us behind the scenes of the whirlwind that was Cal Poly's postseason: upsetting #5 BYU and #4 USC as an unseeded team, interviewing for the Nevada job the Monday after the tournament ended, and uprooting his family with three young kids in tow. He shares what made the Cal Poly team so magical, from a culture of celebration and authenticity to the philosophy that "the right kid beats the best athlete," and why letting players be fully themselves is what unlocks the confidence to win. The second half of the conversation is a masterclass in recruiting. Jason walks through what actually separates athletes at the finish line of a coach's target list, the "genuine interest hack" that gets him to invest more time watching a recruit, and why copy-paste emails get ignored while a personal, well-researched email can move an athlete up the board. He also shares what it looks like when an athlete is willing to wear her heart on her sleeve, and why that vulnerability is often the difference between an offer and a pass. If your daughter is on a college coach's radar (or trying to be), this episode is exactly what she needs to hear. Chapters 00:00 – Celebrating 50 episodes with Coach Jason Borchin About the Guest: Jason Borchin is the head coach of the University of Nevada Women's Volleyball program, named to the role in December 2025 after helping lead Cal Poly to a historic Cinderella run to the NCAA Tournament Sweet 16. Over nine seasons at Cal Poly, he served as recruiting coordinator and associate head coach, helping the Mustangs win back-to-back Big West titles and earn multiple NCAA Tournament appearances. Prior to Cal Poly, Jason coached at Notre Dame and Sacramento State, and he brings 18+ years of coaching experience across the intercollegiate, high school, and club levels. He and his wife Jessie (who advises athletes at NXTVB) have three young children.
Nevada Wolf Pack Volleyball: @nevadavolleyball Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 49: How to Help Your Athlete Bounce Back From a Bad Day | 16 Jul 2026 | 00:39:21 | |
What's the first thing you should say when your daughter comes home from a camp, tryout, or tournament totally deflated? In this episode, Susan shares a simple but powerful tool she learned in her life coaching certification called the Ratings Game. It's a set of scaled questions parents and coaches can use to help an athlete process a tough day without spiraling into "I'm not good enough" thinking. Susan walks through exactly how the tool works, from asking your daughter to rate her performance from 1 to 10, to the crucial follow-up question of "Why isn't it a 1?" that gently gets her focused on what she actually did well. She also shares how to handle the "I don't know" answer, how to reflect her thinking back to her, and a reframe on motivation she calls "gas car vs. electric car," why celebration motivation is faster and more sustainable than being hard on yourself. If you're holding space for an athlete chasing a big goal, this episode gives you a script you can use the very next time she comes to you upset. Chapters 00:00 – Behind the scenes at Girls Junior Nationals Follow Coach Desi on Instagram: @thisiscoachdesi Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 48: Driver or Victim? Taking Ownership of Your Recruiting Process | 09 Jul 2026 | 00:18:39 | |
Are you actively choosing your recruiting process, or quietly letting it happen to you? In this episode, Susan builds on the last two conversations and gets into one of the biggest reasons recruiting timelines look so different from athlete to athlete: different goals create different timelines. She walks through a spectrum she sees almost every athlete fall somewhere on, from the very specific athlete who knows exactly what she wants to the more open-minded athlete who's willing to explore, and explains why neither path is right or wrong, just different. Susan shares her own story of holding out for a Top 25 or Pac-10 program as a 16-year-old recruit, why she sat on offers from schools that didn't match her vision, and what made the wait worth it. She also tells the story of a former club athlete who chose to commit to the first offer she received from her dream conference, and how having a little specificity with an open mind made for one of the smoothest recruiting processes Susan has seen. She closes with a powerful reframe: in your recruiting process, you are the driver, not the victim. If you're not getting interest from the schools you want, you get to decide whether to double down, adjust your list, or become the athlete who's good enough for the goal. Leaning into desire rather than fear is what changes everything. Chapters 00:00 – Why timelines feel like a verdict (and shouldn't) Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 47: Stop Comparing, Start Driving Your Own Recruiting Journey | 02 Jul 2026 | 00:19:49 | |
What if your recruiting journey was never supposed to look like anyone else's? In this episode, Susan continues the post-June 15th conversation with one of her favorite analogies for recruiting: the road trip. She walks through what would happen if 100 families started in San Francisco with the same goal of getting to New York City, and why none of them would arrive in the same way, on the same day, or in the same vehicle. She explains why recruiting is actually even more unpredictable than that, since athletes aren't even starting from the same place, driving the same car, or trying to reach the same destination. Susan digs into the comparison trap that's stealing confidence from so many families, why looking at your bestie's journey is still just a snapshot you can't fully see, and how the spectrum between very specific and very open-minded athletes creates very different timelines (and why neither is wrong). She closes with a powerful reminder that every successful recruiting story has one thing in common: the athlete kept moving. If you've been quietly comparing yourself to teammates, classmates, or strangers on social media, this episode is the windshield-shift you need. Chapters 00:00 – Borrowing belief when you can't quite believe it yourself Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 46: What June 15th Actually Reveals (and What It Doesn't) | 25 Jun 2026 | 00:30:12 | |
What if June 15th wasn't a verdict, but a flashlight? In this follow-up to last week's episode, Susan goes deeper on what June 15th actually reveals and how athletes and families can make sense of what they saw (or didn't see) once the day passed. Through two memorable analogies, a tunnel and a big box with multiple doors, she paints a clear picture of what's actually happening behind the scenes of the recruiting process and why most athletes are still in the middle of their journey, not at the end. Susan walks through why the days before June 15th feel like walking through a dark tunnel, sharing a personal story about taking her three young sons through an abandoned train tunnel in Truckee. She explains how June 15th is essentially the lights coming on in the middle of that tunnel, finally giving families clarity on how far they've come, what's ahead, and what direction to go next. She also calls out the social media trap that makes a small percentage of athletes feel like the majority, and offers a "Bill Nye, not Judge Judy" approach to assessing what the day actually revealed. If June 15th didn't unfold the way your family hoped, or you're trying to figure out what to do with the information you now have, this episode will help you reset, reassess, and move forward with clarity. Chapters 00:00 – The power of being a little delusional Click HERE for the link to NXTVB Support Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 45: Why June 15th Doesn't Decide Your Recruiting Future | 11 Jun 2026 | 00:15:12 | |
What if June 15th wasn't a verdict on your future, but just one date on a much longer calendar? With June 15th approaching, Susan goes solo to reframe how athletes and families are thinking about the most hyped-up day in volleyball recruiting. She breaks down what June 15th actually is (and isn't), why most athletes won't have a dramatic recruiting breakthrough on that single day, and the silent stories athletes start telling themselves when the day doesn't unfold the way they imagined. Drawing on a concept from her mentor Brooke Castillo, Susan walks through how to make decisions ahead of time about who you want to be, how you want to show up, and what you'll focus on whether things go well or not. She also offers a powerful reframe for any athlete who's been measuring her worth by outcomes instead of actions, and shares the drops-in-a-bucket framework that reminds you why your success in this process is inevitable as long as you don't give up. If June 15th has been weighing on your family, this episode is the deep breath you didn't know you needed before opening day. Chapters 00:00 – What June 15th actually is Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 44: The Truth About Recruiting Calls, Fit, and Chasing D1 (Part 2) | 04 Jun 2026 | 00:35:17 | |
What separates a recruiting call that lands an offer from one that gets quietly forgotten? In this episode, Susan welcomes back Ben and Nancy Somera, the married coaching duo leading programs at Wesleyan University (Division III) and Fairfield University (Division I). This time, they go deeper into what's actually happening behind the scenes of the recruiting process, from the chase for the "D1 label" to the phone calls that often decide who gets an offer. Ben and Nancy break down what real fit looks like, why "going D1" shouldn't be the driving force behind any recruit's decision, and what athletes can learn from the difference between a winning program and a losing one. They walk through the recruiting calls coaches actually want to have (and the questions that waste everyone's time), the personality cues they pick up on, how their timelines differ at the D1 and D3 levels, the rushed-offer culture around June 15th, and what the new roster limits and fifth-year eligibility rules really mean for the next few recruiting classes. If you're heading into June 15th, prepping for your first call with a college coach, or trying to figure out if you're chasing the right schools, this conversation is a must. About the Guests: Ben and Nancy Somera bring a unique perspective to the college volleyball world, having coached together at the Division I level before now leading successful programs at different divisions in Connecticut. Nancy is the head coach at Fairfield University, where she has quickly built one of the top mid-major programs in the country with multiple MAAC Championships and NCAA Tournament appearances. Ben is the head coach at Wesleyan University, where he has turned the Cardinals into a national Division III contender with multiple NESCAC titles and consistent NCAA Tournament success. Together, the Someras have decades of coaching experience across Division I and Division III volleyball and are widely respected for their ability to build winning cultures, develop athletes, and navigate the evolving recruiting landscape. Their perspective on talent overlap between divisions, recruiting, and what truly creates a great college experience makes for an insightful and timely conversation for athletes and families alike. Chapters 00:00 – Why winning culture matters Connect with Ben and Nancy: Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 43: D1 vs D3 Volleyball, A Coaching Couple's Honest Take (Part 1) | 28 May 2026 | 00:44:37 | |
What if everything you've been told about the gap between D1 and D3 volleyball is missing the bigger picture? In this episode, Susan sits down with Ben and Nancy Somera, a married coaching duo leading programs at two different division levels. Ben is the head coach at Wesleyan University (Division III), and Nancy is the head coach at Fairfield University (Division I). Together, they offer a rare side-by-side look at what coaching, recruiting, and competing actually look like at each level. Ben and Nancy break down the real differences (and surprising similarities) between D1 and D3 volleyball, from season length and summer commitments to practice intensity, major restrictions, and the perceived talent gap between divisions. They also share how they build winning cultures without burning their athletes out, where their recruiting actually overlaps, and why finding a coach who supports your full college experience may matter more than the division letter on the jersey. If you've ever assumed D1 and D3 are worlds apart, this episode will give you a more honest, behind-the-scenes look at how recruiting really works. About the Guests: Ben and Nancy Somera bring a unique perspective to the college volleyball world, having coached together at the Division I level before now leading successful programs at different divisions in Connecticut. Nancy is the head coach at Fairfield University, where she has quickly built one of the top mid-major programs in the country with multiple MAAC Championships and NCAA Tournament appearances. Ben is the head coach at Wesleyan University, where he has turned the Cardinals into a national Division III contender with multiple NESCAC titles and consistent NCAA Tournament success. Together, the Someras have decades of coaching experience across Division I and Division III volleyball and are widely respected for their ability to build winning cultures, develop athletes, and navigate the evolving recruiting landscape. Their perspective on talent overlap between divisions, recruiting, and what truly creates a great college experience makes for an insightful and timely conversation for athletes and families alike. 00:00 – Meeting Ben & Nancy Connect with Ben and Nancy: Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 42: D2 to Pro Athlete - There's More Than One Way | 21 May 2026 | 00:53:00 | |
What if the “best” recruiting path isn’t the one everyone else is chasing? In this episode, Susan sits down with professional volleyball player Kenzie Foley to talk about her journey from Division II volleyball to playing professionally overseas in Germany. Kenzie shares why she chose the Division II route over lower-level Division I opportunities, how she found the right fit during recruiting, and why focusing on growth and development mattered more to her than labels. They also discuss misconceptions around the different college divisions, balancing academics and athletics, and the importance of choosing a path that aligns with your goals. Kenzie also opens up about transitioning to the professional level, adapting to the overseas game, and the mindset that helped her continue proving herself at every stage of her career. If you’ve ever questioned whether there’s only one “right” path in recruiting, this episode is a reminder that success can look a lot of different ways. About the Guest: Kenzie Foley is a professional volleyball player whose journey has been anything but linear. What once felt like rejection became redirection when her indoor collegiate volleyball career at St. Cloud State University ended sooner than expected. Instead of walking away from the sport, Kenzie took a leap of faith into beach volleyball at the University of Central Arkansas, a decision that unexpectedly led her back to the indoor game and ultimately to the start of her professional career in Germany’s Bundesliga. Through every setback, injury, and change of plans, Kenzie has learned that difficult moments often lead to the opportunities we are meant for all along. Her story is a reminder that success doesn’t always happen the way we imagine, but sometimes unfolds even better. Chapters 00:00 – Kenzie’s volleyball journey Instagram: @kenziefoley08 Tik Tok: @kenziefoley08 Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 41: What the 5-Year Eligibility Rule Means for Volleyball Recruiting | 14 May 2026 | 00:39:44 | |
What could happen to volleyball recruiting if college athletes are given five full years of eligibility? In this episode, Susan breaks down the NCAA’s proposed “5 years to play 5” rule and shares seven major ripple effects she believes could reshape the future of volleyball recruiting. From fewer roster spots at top programs to the growing importance of Division III and junior college opportunities, Susan walks through how the recruiting landscape could become more competitive and more strategic for families navigating the process. She also explains how roster limits, the transfer portal, international recruiting, and the rise of older, more experienced college athletes may impact recruiting timelines and opportunities for future classes. This episode is not meant to create fear or panic, but instead help families think ahead, better understand the bigger picture, and make more informed recruiting decisions moving forward. Chapters 00:00 – Understanding the proposed 5-year rule Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| Bonus Episode: June 15th Prep Club Preview | 12 May 2026 | 00:18:50 | |
June 15th is a major milestone in volleyball recruiting, but most athletes spend years preparing physically without ever learning how to confidently handle conversations with college coaches. In this bonus episode, Susan gives families a behind-the-scenes look inside her June 15th Prep Club, a guided experience designed to help athletes feel calm, prepared, and confident going into recruiting conversations. You’ll hear part of a private Prep Club podcast episode featuring certified life coach Desi McPhail and former Division I athlete Jesse Borkin. Together, they break down why telling your story matters, how athletes can speak confidently about themselves without feeling awkward, and what coaches are actually looking for during recruiting calls. They also discuss common first-call questions, how to prepare thoughtful responses, and why confidence and self-awareness can help athletes stand out in the recruiting process. If your athlete is part of the class of 2028 and preparing for June 15th, this episode will help you better understand how to approach the process with more clarity and confidence. ENROLL IN THE JUNE 15th PREP CLUB HERE Chapters 00:00 – Why June 15th feels so important Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 40: How the Recruiting Process Actually Works from a Coach’s Perspective (Part 2) | 30 Apr 2026 | 00:36:55 | |
What does recruiting actually look like from the moment a coach sees your name to a final decision? In Part 2, Susan continues her conversation with Chad Koenegstein and Andrew Brown, breaking down how the Division III recruiting process works behind the scenes. They walk through the recruiting funnel, from crowded inboxes to narrowing down a class, and explain how coaches evaluate athletes, the role of visits, and why timing matters. You’ll also hear what athletes are doing well, what makes coaches’ jobs harder, and how being proactive with camps can help you stand out. Chad Koenegstein is the head coach at UC Santa Cruz and a former Colorado College assistant who helped lead three NCAA Tournament teams and coached eight All-Americans. Andrew Brown is the head coach at NYU, where he has built one of the top Division III programs with multiple NCAA Tournament runs and back-to-back Final Four appearances. Chapters 00:00 – Where recruiting starts: the inbox Book Mentioned: Kids These Days: Effective Strategies for Coaching Gen Z and Beyond Connect with Andrew: Website: https://gonyuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball Connect with Chad Website: https://goslugs.com/sports/womens-volleyball Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 39: Inside Division III Recruiting and What Coaches Are Really Looking For (Part 1) | 23 Apr 2026 | 00:36:14 | |
What does the recruiting process actually look like from a Division III coach’s perspective? Chapters 00:00 – Meet Chad and Andrew Connect with Andrew: Website: https://gonyuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball Connect with Chad Website: https://goslugs.com/sports/womens-volleyball Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 38: You Don't Need the Whole Plan to Get Recruited | 16 Apr 2026 | 00:14:00 | |
If you’ve been trying to approach recruiting like a step-by-step checklist, this episode will challenge the way you think about the process. In this episode, Susan shares a powerful analogy that reframes recruiting as a road trip instead of a fixed plan. Athletes and families often want the exact steps and a guaranteed path, but in reality, recruiting is about direction, not perfection. Susan breaks down why trying to map out every step can actually create more stress and confusion, and how focusing on the next move builds momentum and clarity over time. She also explains the role of a “copilot” in the recruiting process, and how the right guidance can make the journey smoother without taking away ownership from the athlete. For parents, this episode offers a helpful shift in perspective on how to best support your athlete without becoming the backseat driver, and why your role matters more than you think. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or stuck in the recruiting process, this episode will help you simplify your approach, build momentum, and keep moving forward. Chapters 00:00 – Intro 00:45 – Recruiting isn’t a step-by-step process 01:45 – Why planning everything creates stress 02:30 – Direction over perfection 03:45 – Focus on the next step 04:15 – The role of a recruiting guide 05:45 – Action creates clarity 07:00 – What this means for athletes 08:00 – What this means for parents 09:30 – Why outside support helps 11:00 – Parents as the fuel, not the driver 12:30 – What actually helps families most 13:30 – Final takeaway: keep moving Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 37: Keegan Cook from Minnesota Volleyball - Recruiting Insights for the class of 2028 and Rising Prospects (Part 2) | 09 Apr 2026 | 00:28:58 | |
What if waiting in the recruiting process could actually create more opportunities? In Part 2 of this conversation, Susan continues her discussion with Keegan Cook, head coach at the University of Minnesota, to break down how timing impacts recruiting opportunities for the class of 2028 and rising prospects. Keegan explains why recruiting can feel inconsistent and how factors like the transfer portal, international athletes, and roster needs influence when opportunities open up. He shares why uncommitted athletes can become more valuable later in the process and why waiting may actually work in your favor. They also discuss how scholarship structures have evolved, why programs hold spots for the right player, and what happens after an offer is extended. If you’re feeling pressure to commit early, this episode will help you approach decisions with more clarity and confidence. Guest: Keegan Cook Keegan Cook is the head coach of the University of Minnesota volleyball program and one of the most respected voices in the college game when it comes to recruiting and player development. Since taking over in 2022, he’s led the Gophers to three straight NCAA Tournament appearances, including a Sweet 16 run, while earning AVCA Region Coach of the Year honors. Prior to Minnesota, Cook built a powerhouse at the University of Washington with multiple Pac-12 titles, a Final Four appearance, and consistent national success. With experience across club, mid-major, and Power 5 levels, as well as involvement with USA Volleyball, he brings a well-rounded perspective on how the recruiting process works and how it’s evolving for today’s athletes and families. Chapters 00:00 – Why timing matters in recruiting Connect with Keegan: Instagram: @gophervb Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 36: Keegan Cook from Minnesota Volleyball Chats June 15th and Recruiting Timelines (Part 1) | 02 Apr 2026 | 00:30:29 | |
If you’ve ever felt like the recruiting process suddenly speeds up and everything happens at once, this episode will help you understand why. In Part 1 of this conversation, Susan sits down with Keegan Cook, head coach at the University of Minnesota, to talk through how the current recruiting timeline actually works and what’s changed over the years. They break down the June 15th rule, why communication is so limited before that date, and why everything can feel so overwhelming once it opens up. Keegan shares what recruiting looked like before these rule changes, how the process has evolved, and what college coaches are navigating behind the scenes. You’ll also learn why camps have become such a big part of recruiting and how families can better understand what’s happening during this phase. If you’re trying to make sense of June 15th and the overall recruiting timeline, this episode will give you important context and clarity. Guest: Keegan Cook Keegan Cook is the head coach of the University of Minnesota volleyball program and one of the most respected voices in the college game when it comes to recruiting and player development. Since taking over in 2022, he’s led the Gophers to three straight NCAA Tournament appearances, including a Sweet 16 run, while earning AVCA Region Coach of the Year honors. Prior to Minnesota, Cook built a powerhouse at the University of Washington with multiple Pac-12 titles, a Final Four appearance, and consistent national success. With experience across club, mid-major, and Power 5 levels, as well as involvement with USA Volleyball, he brings a well-rounded perspective on how the recruiting process works and how it’s evolving for today’s athletes and families. Chapters 00:00 – Intro and why recruiting feels overwhelming right now 01:30 – Meet Keegan Cook and his perspective on recruiting 04:00 – The biggest issue: limited communication before June 15th 08:30 – How recruiting used to work vs. now 12:30 – Why June 15th changed everything 16:00 – The “floodgates” effect and rising pressure on athletes 19:00 – Why camps have become such a big part of recruiting 22:00 – The gap between June 15th and official visits 24:00 – How families are trying to read interest without communication 26:00 – Why recruiting feels rushed and exhausting Connect with Keegan: Instagram: @gophervb Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 35: Understanding University Athlete: What Evaluations Actually Mean (Part 2) | 26 Mar 2026 | 00:31:51 | |
What does it actually mean when you see an “evaluation” on your University Athlete profile? Guest: Corie Murphy Corie Murphy is the Director of Operations at University Athlete (UA), a platform used by college coaches across the country to organize and evaluate athletes in the recruiting process. A former collegiate volleyball player at Eastern Washington and assistant coach at the University of Idaho, Corie has spent more than two decades working at the intersection of technology and college athletics. Through her work with University Athlete, she helps develop tools that allow college coaches to track prospects, manage evaluations, and recruit more efficiently throughout the year. Chapters 00:00 – What a University Athlete “evaluation” actually is 01:00 – The different tools coaches use to evaluate players 02:00 – How recruiting tags work behind the scenes 03:00 – Ratings, notes, and internal evaluations 04:30 – Why athletes see evaluation activity 06:00 – Can coaches see each other’s notes? 07:00 – Why an evaluation doesn’t always mean recruiting interest 08:30 – What patterns athletes should actually look for 10:00 – What makes a helpful athlete profile 11:30 – The importance of accurate contact information 13:00 – New AI matching features coming to UA 15:00 – How clubs may use UA in the future 20:00 – Do Power 4 coaches use UA? 22:00 – What to do if a coach says no 24:30 – The one thing every athlete should do on their UA profile Connect with Corie: Website: www.universityathlete.com Instagram: @universityathlete Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 34: Clearing the Air on University Athlete: How College Coaches Use It (Part 1) | 19 Mar 2026 | 00:32:41 | |
If you’ve ever wondered why college coaches spend so much time on their phones at volleyball tournaments, this episode will help you understand what they’re doing. In Part 1, Susan sits down with Corie Murphy from University Athlete (UA) to talk about how the platform works and why it has become an essential tool in college volleyball recruiting. Guest: Corie Murphy Corie Murphy is the Director of Operations at University Athlete (UA), a platform used by college coaches across the country to organize and evaluate athletes in the recruiting process. A former collegiate volleyball player at Eastern Washington and former assistant coach at the University of Idaho, Corie has spent more than two decades working at the intersection of technology and college athletics. Through her work with University Athlete, she helps develop tools that allow college coaches to track prospects, manage evaluations, and recruit more efficiently throughout the year. Chapters Connect with Corie: Website: www.universityathlete.com Instagram: @universityathlete Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 33: Planning on Going to Camps This Summer? Listen to This Before You Sign Up | 12 Mar 2026 | 00:12:43 | |
Join Susan for a valuable taste of a lesson you get inside the Volleyball Recruiting School membership. College volleyball camps can play a role in the recruiting process, but many families sign up for them without fully understanding how coaches actually use them. In this episode, Susan shares a sneak peek from one of the lessons inside Volleyball Recruiting School, where she breaks down how to think strategically about camps. Rather than treating camps as something you simply “have to do,” Susan explains how they fit into the bigger recruiting picture and why being intentional about where you spend your time and money matters. You’ll learn the different types of volleyball camps, how coaches view them from the recruiting side, and the key questions families should ask before signing up. Susan also walks through how camps can help athletes build connections with programs, gain clarity about potential schools, and move forward in the recruiting process when used strategically. If camps are part of your recruiting plan this year, this episode will help you think about them in a smarter and more informed way. Chapters 00:00 – A sneak peek inside Volleyball Recruiting School Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 32: If You Want To Get Recruited, Make It Easy For The Coach | 05 Mar 2026 | 00:17:23 | |
What does it actually mean to “make it easy for a college coach” during the recruiting process? In this episode, Susan breaks down one of the most important principles families often overlook: college coaches are extremely busy, and athletes who make their lives easier stand out immediately. From how you share film to the way you structure your emails and profiles, small details can make a big difference in how coaches evaluate and remember you. Susan explains why organization, clarity, and follow-through build trust with coaches and how these habits can separate athletes in a crowded recruiting landscape. If your goal is to get on a coach’s radar and stay there, this episode will help you understand how to present yourself in a way that makes coaches want to keep watching. Chapters 00:00 – The recruiting rule: make it easy for the coach 01:00 – Why coaches protect their time 02:30 – The role trust plays in recruiting decisions 04:00 – What “making it easy” actually looks like 06:00 – Sharing film and making it easy to evaluate 08:00 – Email communication that coaches appreciate 10:30 – Small details that build credibility 13:30 – A look inside the Recruit Ready system 16:00 – Final recruiting takeaway Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 31: Is It the Goal… Or Your Timeline? | 26 Feb 2026 | 00:31:49 | |
You say you want to play volleyball in college. But what if the real thing stressing you out isn’t the goal… it’s the timeline you attached to it? In this episode, Susan unpacks one of the biggest hidden pressures in recruiting: the belief that it should have happened by now. For the Class of 2026 and 2027 especially, watching other athletes commit can create a quiet panic — even when you’re doing everything “right.” Susan breaks down the two biggest sources of recruiting frustration: timelines and expectations. She explains why timing is often just a guess, why attaching your confidence to a date creates unnecessary pressure, and how to shift your focus back to what you can actually control. She also dives into a deeper question: are your expectations rooted in desire… or fear? Because the difference between those two changes everything. If recruiting has started to feel heavy, uncertain, or discouraging, this episode will help you reset. You only need one aligned yes. And your time is coming — even if it’s not on the schedule you imagined. Chapters 00:00 – The ultimate goal: you only need one aligned “yes” 01:30 – Why recruiting feels frustrating (Classes of ’26 & ’27) 02:30 – The Timeline Trap: why timing creates pressure 05:30 – What you can control vs. what you can’t 07:00 – Expectations layered onto the goal 08:30 – Desire vs. fear: where your expectations come from 11:30 – Are you limiting yourself to one specific outcome? 13:30 – Division, location, academics — what really matters? 16:15 – What happens when you drop the timeline 18:30 – The “drops in the bucket” mindset 22:00 – The Celebration Game: building confidence through small wins 23:30 – “Your time is coming — and it’s always on time” 25:00 – Recruiting is more than strategy 27:30 – Final reflection: timelines, expectations, and choosing from desire Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 30: The Game of ‘General Interest’ in VB Recruiting - And What it Really Means | 19 Feb 2026 | 00:12:51 | |
If you’ve heard the phrase “general interest” from a college coach and walked away confused or unsure what it actually means, this episode is for you. In this bonus episode, Susan breaks down what “general interest” really means in Division I volleyball recruiting, why coaches use this language, and how families should interpret it without jumping to conclusions. Susan explains the realities of recruiting timelines, NCAA communication rules, and the difference between top-prospect recruiting and the experience most athletes will actually have. She also clarifies what coaches can and can’t say before June 15 — and why silence or vague language doesn’t mean your athlete isn’t being evaluated. This episode is designed to give you the behind the scenes info with context to help families better understand what really goes on in recruiting. Chapters 00:00 – Why this conversation matters + the June 15 hype Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 29: How to Make the Most of College Camps at Clubs | 12 Feb 2026 | 00:30:38 | |
If it feels like every club suddenly announced a college camp at the same time, you’re not imagining it. In this episode of the NXTVB Podcast, Susan breaks down the growing trend of college camps hosted at clubs and explains how they fit into the volleyball recruiting process. She shares why these camps can be a valuable use of time and resources when approached strategically. Susan walks through why college coaches like these camps, how NCAA rules influence them, and what families should consider before signing up. She also explains how athletes can maximize the experience, advocate for themselves, and stand out even when things don’t go perfectly. This episode is designed to help families make informed, confident decisions. Chapters 02:00 – Why college camps at clubs have exploded 04:00 – Why these camps can be valuable for recruiting 06:00 – NCAA rules and how they influence camps 09:00 – What families should evaluate before signing up 13:00 – Camp size, coach access, and court placement 17:00 – Club reputation and how it affects the experience 21:00 – How to maximize a college camp strategically 25:00 – Emailing coaches before and after camp 29:00 – Self-advocacy and navigating challenges at camp 33:00 – How to stand out regardless of court or role 37:00 – Final guidance for athletes and parents Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 28: The Mental Skills That Keep Athletes at the Top (Part 2) | 03 Feb 2026 | 00:35:09 | |
What happens when talent is no longer the differentiator? In Part 2 of this deep-dive conversation, Susan and Sonja shift from big-picture mindset to the specific mental tools elite athletes use to perform under pressure and sustain success at the highest levels. Sonja shares firsthand experiences from professional volleyball and Team USA, where every athlete in the gym is talented — and mental skills become the deciding factor. From visualization and internal dialogue to handling pressure and staying present, this episode gives athletes practical insight into what mental training really looks like at the top. They also discuss why mindset work isn’t about “thinking positive,” how confidence is built over time, and what coaches are actually evaluating when watching athletes compete. If your athlete struggles with pressure, consistency, or confidence when the stakes rise, this episode offers clarity and direction. Chapters 00:00 – Welcome back to Part 2 01:30 – What separates athletes when talent is equal 04:00 – Handling pressure at the highest levels 07:00 – Visualization as a performance tool 10:00 – Internal dialogue and self-talk 13:00 – Staying present when mistakes happen 16:00 – Confidence vs consistency 18:45 – Emotional regulation during competition 21:30 – What coaches notice mentally during matches 24:00 – Why mindset isn’t motivation 26:30 – Burnout vs longevity 29:00 – Mental habits elite athletes repeat 31:30 – Final advice for athletes and parents 46:30 – Final advice for athletes and families Connect with Sonja: Instagram: @_sonjaanderson Bio on Website: https://nxtvb.com/about Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 27: Why Talent Isn’t Enough — The Mindset That Separates Elite Athletes (Part 1) | 29 Jan 2026 | 00:30:16 | |
Talent might open the door, but mindset determines who stays. In Part 1 of this powerful conversation, Susan sits down with Sonja Anderson to unpack what actually separates athletes who rise to the top from those who stall out, even when talent levels are similar. Sonja’s journey spans every level of the game — from small-town high school volleyball to Division I All-American, 12 years playing professionally overseas, and competing with Team USA on the international stage. What kept her evolving wasn’t just skill, but the mental framework she built along the way. Together, Susan and Sonja explore how mindset develops across each stage of an athlete’s career, why confidence alone isn’t enough, and how athletes can learn to adapt when the game gets harder and the margins get smaller. This episode is essential listening for athletes who want longevity in the sport — and for parents who want to understand what truly supports growth beyond physical ability. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to the mindset conversation 01:30 – Sonja’s early volleyball journey 04:30 – Moving from small environments to elite competition 07:30 – When talent stops being the separator 10:00 – The mental shift required at higher levels 13:00 – Confidence vs mental durability 16:00 – Learning to adapt as the game gets faster 18:45 – Why discomfort signals growth 21:30 – What breaks athletes mentally as competition increases 24:00 – Parental support vs pressure 26:30 – Why mindset must evolve with skill Connect with Sonja: Instagram: @_sonjaanderson Bio on Website: https://nxtvb.com/about Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 26: Same Division, Different Experiences — Are You Built for Ivy, Mid-Major, or Power Four? (Part 2) | 22 Jan 2026 | 00:28:57 | |
In Part 2, Susan and Meredith move from experience to decision-making.They unpack how recruiting actually works across Ivy League, mid-major, and Power Four programs — including timelines, academic expectations, scholarships, financial aid, NIL, and rev share. Meredith explains the Ivy League academic index, why recruiting timelines move differently, and common misconceptions that cause families to rule out options too early. They also compare needs-based aid and scholarships, and explain why “more money” doesn’t always equal a better fit. This episode gives families clarity and language to make smarter, more grounded recruiting decisions — without panic, pressure, or comparison. Chapters 00:00 – Which athletes thrive in different D1 environments 03:00 – Power Four athlete traits vs Ivy League athlete traits 06:00 – Independence, pressure, and compartmentalization 09:30 – Recruiting priorities beyond volleyball skill 12:00 – Evaluating potential vs current level 14:30 – The Ivy League academic index explained 18:00 – Recruiting timelines and calculated risks 21:00 – Common Ivy League misconceptions 23:30 – Financial aid vs athletic scholarships 27:00 – Why Ivy League schools may be more affordable than expected 30:30 – Power Four scholarships, rev share, and NIL 34:00 – NIL vs rev share explained simply 37:30 – Choosing based on values, not hype 40:30 – “Would you still go there without volleyball?” 43:30 – Why recruiting is a marathon, not a sprint 46:30 – Final advice for athletes and families Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 25: Same Division, Different Experiences — Inside D1 Volleyball (Part 1) | 15 Jan 2026 | 00:22:55 | |
Division I volleyball isn’t one experience — and treating it like it is can lead families down the wrong path. In Part 1 of this two-part conversation, Susan sits down with Meredith Schamun, a Division I coach who has coached at the Ivy League, mid-major, and Power Four levels. Meredith brings a rare, behind-the-scenes perspective on what actually separates these environments beyond the label of “D1.” They break down how time commitments, training windows, academic priorities, and daily expectations differ across Ivy League and Power Four programs — and why many athletes are surprised by what Division I really demands. This episode helps families zoom out and understand the landscape before making assumptions about where an athlete will truly thrive. Chapters 00:00 – Why Division I is not one experience 02:00 – Meredith’s coaching journey across D1 environments 05:00 – How Ivy League volleyball compares to other D1 programs 08:15 – Time commitments: Ivy League vs Power Four 11:00 – Summer training and reporting differences 14:00 – Shorter seasons and limited training windows 17:00 – What surprises athletes most about Ivy League volleyball 20:30 – Power Four expectations and daily demands 23:30 – Adjusting as a freshman at a Power Four program 26:30 – Travel, holidays, and life balance 29:30 – Independence and self-management at each level 33:00 – Who tends to thrive in Ivy League environments 36:30 – Who thrives in Power Four environments 39:30 – Pressure, expectations, and culture differences Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 24: Why I Charge What I Charge: How I Think About Recruiting Support | 08 Jan 2026 | 00:30:55 | |
In this episode, Susan pulls back the curtain on something she rarely explains publicly: how she thinks about pricing, value, and the different levels of recruiting support at NXT VB. Fresh off a D3 high-academic camp weekend that reminded her why she loves this work, Susan shares the heart, intention, and ethics behind every “container” she offers, from free Instagram content, to Volleyball Recruiting School, to high-touch, long-term support. This episode is about transparency. It’s about trust. It’s about helping families understand what they’re actually paying for when they invest in recruiting support — and why pricing isn’t just about access, but also about sustainability, care, and results. If you’ve ever wondered why recruiting support is priced the way it is, how to choose the right level of help, or what ethical support should look like in this space, this conversation will bring clarity. Chapters 00:00 – Why Susan felt called to record this episode 01:00 – This episode is not coming from defensiveness 02:15 – Reputation, credibility, and why transparency matters 03:00 – Understanding “containers” and levels of support 03:30 – Container #1: Free content (Instagram, podcast, freebies) 05:00 – Why Instagram is a living resume, not an A-to-Z system 06:15 – The limits of free content and algorithm reality 06:30 – Container #2: Volleyball Recruiting School 07:45 – Why structure, timing, and curation matter 08:45 – Why this offer works best for freshmen and sophomores 09:45 – What families are really paying for in low-ticket education 10:45 – Container #3: Mid-ticket support (Recruit Ready Launch & Intensives) 12:00 – Evaluation, relativity, and finding true “fit” 13:15 – Why recruiting efficiency matters for athletes 14:30 – Highlight films, second opinions, and integrated support 15:45 – Container #4: Set for Success (high-touch, long-term support) 17:00 – Why advocacy is reserved for this level 18:30 – Trust with college coaches and protecting credibility 20:00 – Why Susan does not charge per call 21:15 – Avoiding dependency and empowering families instead 22:00 – Supply, demand, burnout, and sustainability 23:15 – Why NXT VB intentionally stays small 24:30 – Team values, trust, and who supports athletes behind the scenes 25:30 – How offers evolve without compromising values 26:15 – Education over pressure, clarity over fear 27:00 – Final reflections on trust, time, and intention Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 23: Why Waiting Until College to Build NIL Is a Mistake | 01 Jan 2026 | 01:00:33 | |
What if your athlete didn’t wait until college to build her NIL, but arrived on campus already prepared, confident, and visible? In this episode of the NXTVB Podcast, Susan sits down with Rebecca Martinez, former collegiate volleyball player, strength and conditioning coach, and social media strategist working directly with elite volleyball athletes in the NIL space. Together, they break down what NIL really looks like behind the scenes — not the highlight reels you see online, but the mindset, strategy, and consistency that actually create opportunity. This conversation is a must-listen for athletes and parents who want to understand how social media, personal brand, and confidence intersect with recruiting, college athletics, and long-term success. Chapters 00:00 – Why this NIL conversation matters 02:00 – Rebecca’s volleyball and NIL journey 04:30 – What NIL actually is (and what it’s not) 07:00 – Why athletes shouldn’t wait until college to think about NIL 10:00 – Common social media mistakes athletes make 13:00 – Why follower count doesn’t equal opportunity 16:00 – Storytelling, voiceovers, and building real connection 19:30 – What brands actually look for in NIL partnerships 22:30 – Why local brands are a great starting point 25:00 – Confidence, fear, and showing up before you feel ready 28:00 – Being seen vs being marketable 31:00 – How NIL can benefit both the athlete and the program 34:00 – Final advice for athletes and parents navigating NIL To learn more about working with Rebecca to build your athlete's following organically 👇🏼 EMAIL susan@nxtlevelvb.com Follow: Rebecca on Instagram @rebeccaamartinez Gigi Artiles on Instagram @gigi.artiles Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 22: Why Coaches Ghost Your Emails (Part 2): Target Lists, Software Issues & When to Pivot | 23 Dec 2025 | 00:19:46 | |
In Part 2 of this inbox-focused series, Susan and Jessie uncover the realities most athletes never consider when they get ghosted. From a target list that’s too ambitious, to software that prevents coaches from replying, to knowing when repeated silence means it’s time to adjust — this episode is the clearest guide you’ll find on how to course-correct your recruiting strategy. You’ll also learn how to read open rates and link clicks, how to use Productive Recruit to identify alignment, and how to write emails that coaches actually want to open. This is a must-listen for any athlete serious about building real traction in their process. Chapters 00:00 – Intro to Part 2 00:30 – The “hard truth” about aiming too high 02:00 – How to read your email traction using Productive Recruit 03:00 – When repeated ghosting means it’s time to pivot 04:40 – Why static target lists create stuck athletes 06:00 – Why D1 silence doesn’t always mean “no” 07:00 – The hidden problem with some recruiting software 09:00 – Why some emails never get delivered to a coach’s inbox 11:00 – When to keep emailing (and when to stop) 12:30 – The power of consistent email trends over time 14:00 – Why some coaches won’t reply even if they like you 15:30 – When a “no” really means stop emailing 17:00 – The right call-to-action for every email 18:00 – How to stand out in a flooded inbox 19:00 – Rapid-fire: What coaches want in an email 21:30 – Why authenticity matters more than stats 23:00 – Final advice: messy action beats perfect strategy Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 21: Why Coaches Ghost Your Emails (Part 1) | 18 Dec 2025 | 00:41:20 | |
Why do college coaches really ghost athletes in their inbox? In Part 1 of this two-part deep dive, Susan and Jessie break down the hidden reasons athletes get ignored — straight from Jessie’s firsthand experience as a former D1 athlete and partner of a long-time D1 recruiting coordinator. From understanding a coach’s year-round workload to recognizing when your target list is too ambitious, this episode gives athletes and families the honest truth about why they’re not hearing back. You’ll learn what coaches actually look for when they open their inbox, how evaluations really happen, and how to assess whether your recruiting strategy is aligned or completely off-track. If your athlete is emailing and hearing nothing but silence, this episode will change the way you approach the process. Chapters 00:00 – Welcome + intro to today’s topic 01:00 – Meet Jessie and her transfer story 04:40 – What athletes don’t understand about coaching careers 06:30 – How coaching responsibilities impact email response times 10:30 – Why being “busy” is a very real factor in ghosting 13:00 – The year-long recruiting and coaching cycle no one talks about 16:00 – Why athletes think they’re being ignored 17:00 – Reason 1: Missing key components in an email 19:00 – Reason 2: Your highlight film isn't helping you 22:00 – Reason 3: Asking for a call before you’ve earned it 25:00 – Reason 4: You're emailing too early (and NCAA rules matter) 27:45 – Reason 5: Top athletes still need to signal interest 29:00 – Why coaches almost never call athletes who never emailed them 30:40 – Different recruiting timelines for different divisions 32:00 – Why two athletes with the same ability may hear back at different times 33:30 – The mindset shift athletes need during ghosting Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 20: Inside College Volleyball Recruiting — Emails, Red Flags & Real Talk (Part 2) | 11 Dec 2025 | 00:39:44 | |
Welcome to Part 2, where Susan and three experienced college coaches dive straight into the tactical side of recruiting: emails, communication, social media, red flags, and how athletes can stand out in a crowded recruiting landscape. In this episode, Kevin, Todd, and Jessie reveal exactly what gets their attention, the mistakes that cause them to stop evaluating an athlete, what they really do with highlight videos, and how athletes can build trust through consistent communication. They also unpack showcases, timelines, parents stepping in at the wrong moments, and the difference between being seen and actually being recruitable. If your athlete wants to be noticed — and remembered — this conversation is your playbook. Chapters 00:00 – Welcome back to Part 2 01:00 – What makes a standout email to a college coach 03:45 – How often athletes should be emailing 05:30 – Red flags that instantly get athletes removed from a list 08:00 – How coaches evaluate highlight videos 11:30 – Instagram: what coaches check (and what they ignore) 14:45 – Exposure vs readiness: what families mix up 17:30 – Showcases: what actually matters 20:00 – Athlete-led vs parent-led communication 22:30 – When parents should step in 25:00 – What memorable athletes consistently do 28:00 – Real stories from past recruits 31:00 – How to stand out at tournaments 34:00 – Final advice for athletes navigating the process Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 19: The Recruiting Conversations You Never Get to Hear (Part 1) | 04 Dec 2025 | 00:38:02 | |
What do college coaches really talk about when they’re evaluating athletes? What frustrates them? What impresses them? And what actually makes a recruit stand out? In Part 1 of this rare, behind-the-scenes conversation, Susan brings together Kevin, Todd, and Jessie — three experienced college coaches with insight from both the women’s and men’s volleyball world. They share the honest, unfiltered truths most families never hear: why communication matters more than talent, why athletes often misunderstand visibility, what coaches actually notice first, and how confidence or doubt shows up long before an athlete steps on the court. If your athlete is preparing for June 15, navigating club season, or trying to get on a coach’s radar, this episode will give you clarity you can’t get anywhere else. Chapters 00:00 – Welcome back + intro to Part 1 01:30 – Meet Kevin, Todd, and Jessie 04:00 – How each coach ended up in college volleyball 06:30 – Men’s vs women’s recruiting: what’s actually different 08:00 – What coaches notice first in a recruit (and it’s not stats) 10:30 – Are athletes really “overlooked"? Coaches tell the truth 13:00 – Why athletes wait for validation — and why that hurts recruiting 15:30 – Club volleyball changes that impact recruiting 18:00 – What coaches wish every family understood 20:45 – Confidence, identity, and how athletes hold themselves back 23:30 – Social media: helpful tool or misguided distraction? 26:00 – Early red flags coaches pick up on 29:00 – Closing thoughts + preview of Part 2 Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 18: Inside D2 Volleyball — Scholarships, Transfers & Life in Balance (Part 2) | 20 Nov 2025 | 00:39:00 | |
In Part 2 of Susan’s deep-dive with national champion coaches Kim Cherniss and Danny Scott, they unpack the realities of D2 scholarships, the modern transfer landscape, and why so many athletes are finding their best fit outside of Division I. Kim and Danny explain how scholarship budgets actually work, what families often misunderstand about financial packages, and why public vs. private school cost matters more than division. They also talk openly about the transfer portal, why D1-to-D2 transfers are on the rise, and how athletes can build a college experience that balances academics, athletics, and life. If you’re a parent trying to understand scholarships — or an athlete exploring where you’ll thrive on and off the court — this episode gives practical clarity you won’t find anywhere else. Chapters 00:00 – Why D1 athletes transfer to D2 and thrive 03:00 – How to evaluate whether a school is the right fit 06:00 – The transfer portal’s impact on recruiting 08:30 – Why “sticking it out” still matters 10:00 – How D2 scholarship budgets really work 13:00 – Public vs. private schools: true cost comparison 15:30 – Life balance: D2 as the “middle ground” athletes love 18:00 – Parents: how to support without overpowering 21:00 – The importance of athlete-led communication 23:00 – “You’re the shopper” mindset shift 25:30 – Practical advice for managing scholarship conversations 28:00 – Quickfire Q&A: emails, social media, showcases & more 32:00 – Final takeaways on building the best college experience Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 17: Stop Calling D2 “Second-Best” — These Coaches Will Change Your Mind (Part 1) | 13 Nov 2025 | 00:29:52 | |
If you think Division II volleyball is “second-best,” this episode will completely shift your perspective. In Part 1 of this special two-part series, Susan sits down with national champion coaches Kim Cherniss and Danny Scott from Cal State San Bernardino to break down the real gap between D1 and D2 — and why it’s much smaller than most families think. Kim and Danny share what truly matters in the college experience, why longevity and culture outweigh “shiny logos,” and the characteristics athletes need to thrive at the Division II level. Their insights from decades of coaching are eye-opening for parents and athletes navigating recruiting with assumptions or misinformation. If your athlete is exploring different divisions — or if you’ve ever questioned what “fit” really means — this conversation is a must-listen. Chapters 00:00 – Meet Kim Cherniss & Danny Scott: national champions with decades of experience 03:00 – What makes their coaching partnership work 06:30 – Why consistency and longevity matter more than prestige 09:00 – The gap between D1 and D2: what families misunderstand 12:00 – What type of athlete thrives at the D2 level 15:00 – Real examples of athletes who found their perfect fit 18:30 – Why recruiting is about culture, not logos 20:30 – Athletes who chose D2 over D1 — and why it worked 24:00 – What coaches actually look for in recruits 28:00 – How physicality and skill differ across divisions 32:00 – Final thoughts: why D2 is far more competitive than people think Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 16: How to Build a Target School List That Gets You Seen and Responses | 28 Oct 2025 | 00:27:54 | |
Before you hit “send” on another email to a college coach, pause. Do you actually know if those schools are the right fit for you athletically, academically, and personally? This episode is a little different. You’re getting a special preview of the Recruit Ready®️ Launch program, where Susan walks athletes and families through the exact steps to build a strong foundation for recruiting success. In this sneak peek, you’ll learn how to create a target school list that helps you stand out, stay consistent, and move forward with confidence. You’ll hear why most athletes get stuck in “trial-and-error mode,” what it means to think strategically, and how two simple approaches: the Strict List and the 5-20-10 Method, can completely reshape your recruiting journey. Whether you’re just getting started or trying to reboot your process, this episode helps you move from chaos to clarity, with a plan that actually works. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to NXT VB Podcast 02:00 – The biggest mistake families make when starting recruiting 05:30 – Why strategy matters more than volume 09:00 – Two proven ways to build your target list 10:00 – The “Strict List” strategy explained 15:45 – How the 5-20-10 Method maximizes opportunity 18:00 – Reading your recruiting data and pivoting with purpose 22:30 – The mindset that separates consistent athletes from burnt-out ones 23:45 – Your next steps to officially launch your recruiting journey Join the Recruit Ready®️ Launch waitlist here: stan.store/heysusank/p/rrlwait Watch the Launch Preview Video https://us06web.zoom.us/clips/share/nFbAuHekQnuEz-Gc3E0sSw Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 15: Before You Spend Another Dollar on Recruiting… You Need to Hear This | 23 Oct 2025 | 00:37:44 | |
Before you invest in another camp, showcase, or private lesson, ask yourself: Is my daughter building her own path—or am I paving it for her? In this episode, Susan helps you spot the difference between “wannabe ballers” (kids walking the golden road their parents paved) and “budding ballers” (athletes laying each brick of their journey themselves). You’ll learn the six key signs that show your athlete is ready to own her recruiting process—and what to do if she’s not there yet. This is a reality check for parents who want to support their daughters the right way: by handing them the bricks, not building the entire road. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to NXT VB Podcast 03:00 – The two kinds of athletes: wannabe vs. budding ballers 05:30 – Why parents need to stop paving the golden road 09:30 – Six things to see before investing in recruiting 10:00 – #1: She watches college volleyball 10:45 – #2: She thrives in competitive environments 12:30 – #3: She’s not afraid to watch herself play 16:45 – #4: She’s open to visiting college campuses 20:00 – #5: She’s achieving her potential in the classroom 23:15 – #6: She’s excited about her future 26:30 – The reflection moment for parents 28:15 – When to pull back and let her lead 29:30 – Introducing Recruit Ready Launch 33:00 – Why clarity comes before commitment 34:15 – Final takeaways and encouragement for parents Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 14: The Foundation Every Athlete Needs to Get Recruited | 09 Oct 2025 | 00:37:37 | |
Most families start their recruiting journey by jumping straight into action—sending emails, posting highlight reels, and signing up for every camp they can find. But without a real plan, all that effort can leave you spinning your wheels. In this episode of the NXTVB Podcast, Susan breaks down what athletes and parents often miss before trying to get “exposure.” She explains why having a solid recruiting foundation matters more than chasing visibility, and what that foundation actually looks like. You’ll see where most families go wrong and how to shift from staying busy to being effective. You’ll understand what to focus on first, how to target schools that actually fit, and what it takes to build a process that saves you time, money, and frustration. By the end, you’ll have more clarity on what needs to happen before you start chasing offers, and how to take control of your recruiting journey with purpose and direction. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to NXT VB Podcast 01:00 – Spinning Your Wheels in Recruiting 03:30 – Why Exposure Alone Isn’t Enough 06:00 – Building a Foundation That Works 08:30 – From Busy to Effective 11:00 – Targeting Schools That Actually Fit 13:30 – The Power of Having a Plan 16:00 – Avoiding the “Do It All” Trap 18:30 – Creating Clarity and Direction 21:00 – Recruit Ready Launch Invitation 23:00 – Closing Thoughts & Next Steps Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 13: The Real Competition in Recruiting (It’s Not Other Athletes) | 02 Oct 2025 | 00:34:02 | |
Every athlete worries about competition, but what if the biggest obstacle in the recruiting process isn’t another player across the net? In this week’s episode of the NXTVB Podcast, Susan breaks down one of the most overlooked truths in college recruiting: your daughter’s real competition is time and herself. From the unique culture of privacy in volleyball recruiting to why families often misjudge who their athlete is “up against,” Susan reframes what athletes and parents should actually be focusing on. You’ll learn why comparing yourself to teammates can hold you back, how to maximize the limited recruiting window, and why building belief and taking consistent action are more important than trying to be the “right fit” for every program. If you’ve ever felt stuck, behind, or unsure about how to stand out, this episode will give you the clarity and perspective to approach recruiting with confidence and strategy. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to NXT VB Podcast 00:00 – Grounded & Gritty: Kicking Off the Conversation 02:00 – The Culture of Privacy in Volleyball Recruiting 05:30 – The Myth of Teammates as Competition 07:00 – Why Direct Competition Rarely Exists 12:00 – The World’s Best Peach: Finding Your Fit 14:00 – The Real Competition in Recruiting 15:00 – Racing Against Time 18:00 – Facing Your Toughest Opponent: Yourself 22:00 – Building Belief Through Action 26:00 – Shifting Focus: Time + Self Over Others 27:00 – Introducing Recruit Ready Launch 30:30 – Final Takeaways & Next Steps Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 12: The Realities of D1 Volleyball (What No One Talks About) | 25 Sep 2025 | 00:43:23 | |
Every athlete dreams of going D1, but what does it actually take, and what does life really look like once you get there? In this episode of the NXTVB Podcast, Susan breaks down the realities of playing Division I volleyball, from the five-month grind of the season to the hidden time commitments no one talks about. She also explains the differences between Power 4 programs, Top 50 schools, and mid-majors, and why understanding these categories is crucial when building your recruiting target list. You’ll learn how scholarships really work at the Division I level, the impact of roster limits and NIL changes, and why finding the right fit matters more than chasing labels. Whether you’re an athlete, parent, or coach, this episode will help you make more informed decisions in the recruiting process. Chapters 00:00 – Welcome + why lived experience shapes perspective Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 11: Finding the Right Fit in an Unexpected Place (Real Recruiting Stories Part 3) | 11 Sep 2025 | 00:14:50 | |
Every athlete dreams of playing at the highest level — but the real win is finding the place where you can truly thrive. In this final episode of the Real Recruiting Stories mini-series, Susan shares Sally’s journey. Labeled “undersized,” Sally chased Division I dreams and, like so many athletes, would have loved to play D1 if the opportunity was there. But when the calls didn’t come, she found herself building strong connections with high-academic D3 programs instead. Then came the unexpected twist — a call from a nationally competitive Division II program. At first, it wasn’t the path she had imagined, but by staying curious and visiting with an open mind, Sally discovered that this school checked every box: academics, competition, and the chance to grow as both an athlete and a person. Her story is a reminder that while chasing D1 is a worthy goal, it isn’t the only path to success. The real measure of “making it” is finding a program where you can thrive on and off the court — even if it’s not the place you thought you’d end up. This is Part 3 — and the finale — of the Real Recruiting Stories mini-series. If you missed Emily’s or Kelsey’s stories, catch up first, then tune in for Sally’s inspiring conclusion. Chapters 00:00 – Why recruiting journeys never look the same Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||
| 10: She Decommitted… and It Changed Everything (Part 2, Real Recruiting Stories) | 02 Sep 2025 | 00:14:03 | |
In Part 2 of the Real Recruiting Stories mini-series, Susan shares Kelsey’s journey, a rollercoaster recruiting process full of setbacks, detours, and unexpected turns that ultimately led her exactly where she was meant to be. From committing to her second-choice school, to decommitting after a coaching change, to finally landing at the program she loved all along, Kelsey’s story proves that the muddy middle isn’t a sign of failure — it’s just part of the process. If you’ve ever felt stuck, uncertain, or tempted to give up, this episode will encourage you to keep going. Because, as Susan reminds us, success in recruiting always goes to the girl who wants it the most. Chapters 00:00 – The muddy middle: why recruiting rarely feels perfect 02:30 – The lake + island analogy: what the process is really like 05:00 – Why the “mud” creates doubt and second-guessing 06:15 – Meet Kelsey: her junior year recruiting journey 08:30 – First full-ride offer vs. holding out for her dream school 10:30 – Committing to her second-choice school 11:00 – When her coach left — and why she decommitted 12:30 – How roster movement creates new opportunities 13:45 – The dream school reappears (and makes an offer) 15:00 – Why the mud isn’t failure, it’s the middle 16:00 – Encouragement for athletes in the messy middle Connect with Susan: Looking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time. Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan. | |||