Episoder
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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
02:00 – June 15th is a day, not a verdict
03:30 – The stories we let June 15th mean about us
04:30 – Making decisions ahead of time
06:00 – Disappointment isn't defeat
07:00 – You didn't fail, you just guessed wrong
08:00 – Evaluating yourself by actions, not outcomes
09:30 – The small wins worth celebrating
11:00 – Drops in a bucket: why success is inevitable
13:30 – What to remember if June 15th doesn't go your wayConnect with Susan:
Check out the website: www.nxtvb.com
Follow on Instagram + TikTok: @hey.susankQuick shoutout to our podcast sponsor University Athlete. The only volleyball-exclusive recruiting platform used by 95% of college coaches. It’s where athletes get seen, get evaluated, and get recruited. Plus it's free and only takes a couple of minutes to activate your profile.
Click the link below to claim your free profile.
CLAIM YOUR FREE PROFILE HERE
If you decide you want to upgrade to the All-Access pass be sure to use the code ‘NXTVB30’ to save 30% on your yearly membership.
Subscription boxes are all the rave (we get it, they are FUN!) and we’ve developed one for the recruiting process that comes with 1:1 support in our new Set for Success Membership!
Every Month as Member You Get to Choose from One of the Following for Support:
🖥️ 1:1 ADVISING CALL with either Sonja, Jessie or Susan from the NXTVB team.
🎥 HIGHLIGHT FILM professionally produced and done for you.
🗣️ OUR TARGETED TAKE with detailed feedback on one specific part of your process, so it's worth your time and effort!
😎 PLUS SEASONAL OFFER... -
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
05:00 – PB&J: passion, bravery, and joy
08:30 – The Power 4 chase vs. finding real fit
13:00 – Inside the recruiting call
17:30 – Doing your homework before you dial
19:00 – Personality, presence, and being yourself
23:30 – D1 vs. D3 recruiting timelines
26:00 – Qualifying coach interest before you wait
28:30 – June 15th, rushed offers, and the camp economy
33:00 – Roster limits and the fifth-year shiftConnect with Ben and Nancy:
Instagram: Wesleyan University Volleyball
Website: Wesleyan University Volleyball
Instagram: Fairfield Volleyball
Website: Fairfield VolleyballConnect with Susan:
Check out the website: www.nxtvb.com
Follow on Instagram + TikTok: @hey.susankQuick shoutout to our podcast sponsor University Athlete. The only volleyball-exclusive recruiting platform used by 95% of college coaches. It’s where athletes get seen, get evaluated, and get recruited. Plus it's free and only takes a couple of minutes to activate your profile.
Click the link below to claim your free profile.
CLAIM YOUR FREE PROFILE HERE
If you decide you want to upgrade to the All-Access pass be sure to use the code ‘NXTVB30’ to save 30% on your yearly membership.
Subscription boxes are all the rave (we get it, they are FUN!) and we’ve developed one for the recruiting process that comes with 1:1 support in our new Set for Success Membership!
Every Month as Member You Get to Choose from One of the Following for Support:
🖥️ 1:1 ADVISING CALL with either Sonja, Jessie or Susan from the NXTVB team.
🎥 HIGHLIGHT FILM professionally produced and done for you.
🗣️ OUR TARGETED TAKE with detailed feedback on one specific part of your process, so it's worth your time and effort!
😎 PLUS SEASONAL OFFER... -
Manglende episoder?
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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.
Chapters00:00 – Meeting Ben & Nancy
03:30 – Daily life as D1 vs. D3 head coaches
08:00 – Time commitment and season length
13:00 – Internships, summers, and balance
18:00 – Why burned-out athletes don't perform
24:00 – The athletes who thrive in both gyms
29:00 – Where D1 and D3 recruiting overlaps
33:30 – Strength, conditioning, and the fifth-year shift
37:00 – Choosing nursing, pre-med, and other rigorous majors
44:00 – Building a winning cultureConnect with Ben and Nancy:
Instagram: Wesleyan University Volleyball
Website: Wesleyan University Volleyball
Instagram: Fairfield Volleyball
Website: Fairfield VolleyballConnect with Susan:
Check out the website: www.nxtvb.com
Follow on Instagram + TikTok: @hey.susankQuick shoutout to our podcast sponsor University Athlete. The only volleyball-exclusive recruiting platform used by 95% of college coaches. It’s where athletes get seen, get evaluated, and get recruited. Plus it's free and only takes a couple of minutes to activate your profile.
Click the link below to claim your free profile.
CLAIM YOUR FREE PROFILE HERE
If you decide you want to upgrade to the All-Access pass be sure to use the code ‘NXTVB30’ to save 30% on your yearly membership.
Subscription boxes are all the rave (we get it, they are FUN!) and we’ve developed one for the recruiting process that comes with 1:1 support in our new Set for Success Membership!
Every Month as Member You Get to Choose from One of the Following for Support:
🖥️ 1:1 ADVISING CALL with either Sonja, Jessie or Susan from the NXTVB team.
🎥 HIGHLIGHT FILM professionally produced and done for you.
🗣️ OUR TARGETED TAKE with detailed feedback on one specific part of your process, so it's worth your time and effort!
😎 PLUS SEASONAL OFFER... -
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
03:30 – Why she chose Division II
06:00 – Getting overlooked in recruiting
08:00 – Her path to playing professionally
10:00 – Confidence and proving yourself
13:00 – Her recruiting experience
16:00 – What makes Division II unique
20:00 – Academics, facilities, and balance
23:30 – Earning two college degrees
29:00 – Transitioning to pro volleyball
32:00 – Differences at the pro level
36:00 – Life playing overseas
41:00 – Finding the right fit
47:00 – Final advice for athletes
Connect with Kenzie:Instagram: @kenziefoley08
Tik Tok: @kenziefoley08
Connect with Susan:
Check out the website: www.nxtvb.com
Follow on Instagram + TikTok: @hey.susankQuick shoutout to our podcast sponsor University Athlete. The only volleyball-exclusive recruiting platform used by 95% of college coaches. It’s where athletes get seen, get evaluated, and get recruited. Plus it's free and only takes a couple of minutes to activate your profile.
Click the link below to claim your free profile.
CLAIM YOUR FREE PROFILE HERE
If you decide you want to upgrade to the All-Access pass be sure to use the code ‘NXTVB30’ to save 30% on your yearly membership.
Subscription boxes are all the rave (we get it, they are FUN!) and we’ve developed one for the recruiting process that comes with 1:1 support in our new Set for Success Membership!
Every Month as Member You Get to Choose from One of the Following for Support:
🖥️ 1:1 ADVISING CALL with either Sonja, Jessie or Susan from the NXTVB team.
🎥 HIGHLIGHT FILM professionally produced and done for you.
🗣️ OUR TARGETED TAKE with detailed feedback on one specific part of your process, so it's worth your time and effort!
😎 PLUS SEASONAL OFFER... -
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
01:45 – Fewer roster spots at top programs
08:15 – The talent trickle-down effect
11:30 – Why high academic D3s may benefit
19:30 – The growing value of junior college
23:00 – A higher level of college volleyball
26:30 – How the transfer portal may evolve
28:30 – The future of the student-athlete model
32:30 – International recruiting implications
34:30 – Final thoughts on the future of recruitingConnect with Susan:
Check out the website: www.nxtvb.com
Follow on Instagram + TikTok: @hey.susankQuick shoutout to our podcast sponsor University Athlete. The only volleyball-exclusive recruiting platform used by 95% of college coaches. It’s where athletes get seen, get evaluated, and get recruited. Plus it's free and only takes a couple of minutes to activate your profile.
Click the link below to claim your free profile.
CLAIM YOUR FREE PROFILE HERE
If you decide you want to upgrade to the All-Access pass be sure to use the code ‘NXTVB30’ to save 30% on your yearly membership.
Subscription boxes are all the rave (we get it, they are FUN!) and we’ve developed one for the recruiting process that comes with 1:1 support in our new Set for Success Membership!
Every Month as Member You Get to Choose from One of the Following for Support:
🖥️ 1:1 ADVISING CALL with either Sonja, Jessie or Susan from the NXTVB team.
🎥 HIGHLIGHT FILM professionally produced and done for you.
🗣️ OUR TARGETED TAKE with detailed feedback on one specific part of your process, so it's worth your time and effort!
😎 PLUS SEASONAL OFFER... -
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
01:15 – What the Prep Club is designed to do
02:30 – Why telling your story matters
04:30 – Meet Jesse and Desi
07:00 – What coaches notice during recruiting calls
08:45 – The idea behind an elevator pitch
10:00 – Common first-call questions
12:00 – How to answer confidently
14:00 – Giving coaches insight into who you are
15:45 – Confidence vs. sounding cocky
17:15 – Final thoughts on the Prep ClubConnect with Susan:
Check out the website: www.nxtvb.com
Follow on Instagram + TikTok: @hey.susankQuick shoutout to our podcast sponsor University Athlete. The only volleyball-exclusive recruiting platform used by 95% of college coaches. It’s where athletes get seen, get evaluated, and get recruited. Plus it's free and only takes a couple of minutes to activate your profile.
Click the link below to claim your free profile.
CLAIM YOUR FREE PROFILE HERE
If you decide you want to upgrade to the All-Access pass be sure to use the code ‘NXTVB30’ to save 30% on your yearly membership.
Subscription boxes are all the rave (we get it, they are FUN!) and we’ve developed one for the recruiting process that comes with 1:1 support in our new Set for Success Membership!
Every Month as Member You Get to Choose from One of the Following for Support:
🖥️ 1:1 ADVISING CALL with either Sonja, Jessie or Susan from the NXTVB team.
🎥 HIGHLIGHT FILM professionally produced and done for you.
🗣️ OUR TARGETED TAKE with detailed feedback on one specific part of your process, so it's worth your time and effort!
😎 PLUS SEASONAL OFFER... -
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
01:00 – How many athletes coaches evaluate
03:00 – Narrowing down the recruiting funnel
05:00 – What makes athletes stand out
07:00 – The role of film, camps, and communication
09:00 – Why transparency matters in recruiting
10:30 – What athletes are doing right
12:00 – The role of parents in the process
14:00 – How to approach camps strategically
16:00 – Why camp experience matters
18:00 – Evaluating talent across divisions
20:00 – The overlap between D1, D2, and D3
23:00 – What coaches look for in the right fitBook Mentioned: Kids These Days: Effective Strategies for Coaching Gen Z and Beyond
Connect with Andrew:
Website: https://gonyuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball
Instagram: @nyuwomensvolleyConnect with Chad
Website: https://goslugs.com/sports/womens-volleyball
Instagram: @ucsc_wvbConnect with Susan:
Check out the website: www.nxtvb.com
Follow on Instagram + TikTok: @hey.susankQuick shoutout to our podcast sponsor University Athlete. The only volleyball-exclusive recruiting platform used by 95% of college coaches. It’s where athletes get seen, get evaluated, and get recruited. Plus it's free and only takes a couple of minutes to activate your profile.
Click the link below to claim your free profile.
CLAIM YOUR FREE PROFILE HERE
If you decide you want to upgrade to the All-Access pass be sure to use the code ‘NXTVB30’ to save 30% on your yearly membership.
Subscription boxes are all the rave (we get it, they are FUN!) and we’ve developed one for the recruiting process that comes with 1:1 support in our new Set for Success Membership!
Every Month as Member You Get to Choose from One of the Following for Support:
🖥️ 1:1 ADVISING CALL with either Sonja, Jessie or Susan from the NXTVB team.
🎥 HIGHLIGHT FILM professionally produced and done for you.
🗣️ OUR TARGETED TAKE with detailed feedback on one specific part of your process, so it's worth your time and effort!
😎 PLUS SEASONAL OFFER... -
What does the recruiting process actually look like from a Division III coach’s perspective?
In Part 1 of this conversation, Susan sits down with Chad Koenegstein, Head Coach (UC Santa Cruz), and Andrew Brown, Head Coach (NYU), to talk about their journeys into coaching and what makes the Division III experience unique. They share how recruiting has evolved, including the impact of technology and increased access to information. You’ll hear why recruiting feels more overwhelming than ever for both athletes and coaches, and how today’s process requires more ownership from athletes.
Chad and Andrew also give insight into the collaborative nature of Division III recruiting, how coaches support each other behind the scenes, and why relationships matter. If you’re trying to better understand recruiting and navigate it with more clarity, this episode will give you a strong foundation.Chapters
00:00 – Meet Chad and Andrew
03:00 – Coaching backgrounds and career paths
07:00 – Why relationships and reputation matter in recruiting
09:30 – How recruiting has changed over time
12:00 – The role of technology in recruiting
15:30 – Why Division III is more collaborative
18:00 – How coaches support each other behind the scenes
22:00 – Why recruiting feels more overwhelming than ever
25:00 – The importance of ownership in the recruiting process
27:30 – Why athletes need to be proactive
30:00 – Using technology and AI in recruitingConnect with Andrew:
Website: https://gonyuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball
Instagram: @nyuwomensvolleyConnect with Chad
Website: https://goslugs.com/sports/womens-volleyball
Instagram: @ucsc_wvbConnect with Susan:
Check out the website: www.nxtvb.com
Follow on Instagram + TikTok: @hey.susankQuick shoutout to our podcast sponsor University Athlete. The only volleyball-exclusive recruiting platform used by 95% of college coaches. It’s where athletes get seen, get evaluated, and get recruited. Plus it's free and only takes a couple of minutes to activate your profile.
Click the link below to claim your free profile.
CLAIM YOUR FREE PROFILE HERE
If you decide you want to upgrade to the All-Access pass be sure to use the code ‘NXTVB30’ to save 30% on your yearly membership.
Subscription boxes are all the rave (we get it, they are FUN!) and we’ve developed one for the recruiting process that comes with 1:1 support in our new Set for Success Membership!
Every Month as Member You Get to Choose from One of the Following for Support:
🖥️ 1:1 ADVISING CALL with either Sonja, Jessie or Susan from the NXTVB team.
🎥 HIGHLIGHT FILM professionally produced and done for you.
🗣️ OUR TARGETED TAKE with detailed feedback on one specific part of your process, so it's worth your time and effort!
😎 PLUS SEASONAL OFFER... -
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:
Check out the website: www.nxtvb.com
Follow on Instagram + TikTok: @hey.susankQuick shoutout to our podcast sponsor University Athlete. The only volleyball-exclusive recruiting platform used by 95% of college coaches. It’s where athletes get seen, get evaluated, and get recruited. Plus it's free and only takes a couple of minutes to activate your profile.
Click the link below to claim your free profile.
CLAIM YOUR FREE PROFILE HERE
If you decide you want to upgrade to the All-Access pass be sure to use the code ‘NXTVB30’ to save 30% on your yearly membership.
Subscription boxes are all the rave (we get it, they are FUN!) and we’ve developed one for the recruiting process that comes with 1:1 support in our new Set for Success Membership!
Every Month as Member You Get to Choose from One of the Following for Support:
🖥️ 1:1 ADVISING CALL with either Sonja, Jessie or Susan from the NXTVB team.
🎥 HIGHLIGHT FILM professionally produced and done for you.
🗣️ OUR TARGETED TAKE with detailed feedback on one specific part of your process, so it's worth your time and effort!
😎 PLUS SEASONAL OFFER... -
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
01:00 – When uncommitted athletes gain value
03:00 – The “hot and cold” recruiting cycle
05:00 – Transfer portal and shifting opportunities
07:30 – Why waiting can open more doors
10:00 – Scholarship trends and roster strategy
12:30 – Rethinking the scarcity mindset
15:00 – Changes in scholarship structure
17:00 – The value of academics in recruiting
18:30 – What happens after an offer
21:00 – Communication after an offer
23:00 – Making decisions with clarity
24:30 – The myth of the perfect fit
26:00 – Final advice and future outlookConnect with Keegan:
Instagram: @gophervb
Connect with Susan:
Check out the website: www.nxtvb.com
Follow on Instagram + TikTok: @hey.susankQuick shoutout to our podcast sponsor University Athlete. The only volleyball-exclusive recruiting platform used by 95% of college coaches. It’s where athletes get seen, get evaluated, and get recruited. Plus it's free and only takes a couple of minutes to activate your profile.
Click the link below to claim your free profile.
CLAIM YOUR FREE PROFILE HERE
If you decide you want to upgrade to the All-Access pass be sure to use the code ‘NXTVB30’ to save 30% on your yearly membership.
Subscription boxes are all the rave (we get it, they are FUN!) and we’ve developed one for the recruiting process that comes with 1:1 support in our new Set for Success Membership!
Every Month as Member You Get to Choose from One of the Following for Support:
🖥️ 1:1 ADVISING CALL with either Sonja, Jessie or Susan from the NXTVB team.
🎥 HIGHLIGHT FILM professionally produced and done for you.
🗣️ OUR TARGETED TAKE with detailed feedback on one specific part of your process, so it's worth your time and effort!
😎 PLUS SEASONAL OFFER... -
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:
Check out the website: www.nxtvb.com
Follow on Instagram + TikTok: @hey.susankQuick shoutout to our podcast sponsor University Athlete. The only volleyball-exclusive recruiting platform used by 95% of college coaches. It’s where athletes get seen, get evaluated, and get recruited. Plus it's free and only takes a couple of minutes to activate your profile.
Click the link below to claim your free profile.
CLAIM YOUR FREE PROFILE HERE
If you decide you want to upgrade to the All-Access pass be sure to use the code ‘NXTVB30’ to save 30% on your yearly membership.
Subscription boxes are all the rave (we get it, they are FUN!) and we’ve developed one for the recruiting process that comes with 1:1 support in our new Set for Success Membership!
Every Month as Member You Get to Choose from One of the Following for Support:
🖥️ 1:1 ADVISING CALL with either Sonja, Jessie or Susan from the NXTVB team.
🎥 HIGHLIGHT FILM professionally produced and done for you.
🗣️ OUR TARGETED TAKE with detailed feedback on one specific part of your process, so it's worth your time and effort!
😎 PLUS SEASONAL OFFER... -
What does it actually mean when you see an “evaluation” on your University Athlete profile?
In Part 2 of Susan’s conversation with Corie Murphy from University Athlete, they break down one of the most misunderstood parts of the platform: coach evaluations. Athletes often assume an evaluation means strong recruiting interest, but the reality is more nuanced. Corie explains how college coaches use tags, ratings, notes, and internal evaluations to organize their recruiting process.
Susan and Corie also discuss what athletes should actually pay attention to on their profile, how coaches track prospects over time, and why consistent engagement matters more than a single data point. If you’ve ever wondered what those numbers and notifications really mean, this episode will give you a clearer picture of how coaches use University Athlete in 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 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:
Check out the website: www.nxtvb.com
Follow on Instagram + TikTok: @hey.susankQuick shoutout to our podcast sponsor University Athlete. The only volleyball-exclusive recruiting platform used by 95% of college coaches. It’s where athletes get seen, get evaluated, and get recruited. Plus it's free and only takes a couple of minutes to activate your profile.
Click the link below to claim your free profile.
CLAIM YOUR FREE PROFILE HERE
If you decide you want to upgrade to the All-Access pass be sure to use the code ‘NXTVB30’ to save 30% on your yearly membership.
Subscription boxes are all the rave (we get it, they are FUN!) and we’ve developed one for the recruiting process that comes with 1:1 support in our new Set for Success Membership!
Every Month as Member You Get to Choose from One of the Following for Support:
🖥️ 1:1 ADVISING CALL with either Sonja, Jessie or Susan from the NXTVB team.
🎥 HIGHLIGHT FILM professionally produced and done for you.
🗣️ OUR TARGETED TAKE with detailed feedback on one specific part of your process, so it's worth your time and effort!
😎 PLUS SEASONAL OFFER... -
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.
Corie shares the origin of UA and explains how it evolved from a simple roster tool into the system many coaches rely on year-round. You’ll learn how coaches use it at tournaments, how they build recruiting schedules, and why athletes don’t need to send court times anymore. If you’re trying to make recruiting easier and stand out, understanding platforms like UA can give you a real advantage.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
01:00 – How UA started and why it was created
03:00 – The technology that changed recruiting at tournaments
05:30 – How college coaches used to recruit before UA
07:00 – What University Athlete actually is
08:30 – How coaches organize recruiting using the platform
10:00 – How tournament packets work
11:30 – Why college coaches are always on their phones at events
12:30 – Why athletes don’t need to email court times
14:00 – How coaches track recruits over time
15:30 – Free athlete profiles and how the database works
18:00 – What athletes should include on their UA profile
21:00 – What the upgraded UA profile shows athletes
23:30 – Messaging tools and college matching features
26:00 – How athletes can use UA strategically in recruitingConnect with Corie:
Website: www.universityathlete.com
Instagram: @universityathlete
Connect with Susan:
Check out the website: www.nxtvb.com
Follow on Instagram + TikTok: @hey.susankQuick shoutout to our podcast sponsor University Athlete. The only volleyball-exclusive recruiting platform used by 95% of college coaches. It’s where athletes get seen, get evaluated, and get recruited. Plus it's free and only takes a couple of minutes to activate your profile.
Click the link below to claim your free profile.
CLAIM YOUR FREE PROFILE HERE
If you decide you want to upgrade to the All-Access pass be sure to use the code ‘NXTVB30’ to save 30% on your yearly membership.
Subscription boxes are all the rave (we get it, they are FUN!) and we’ve developed one for the recruiting process that comes with 1:1 support in our new Set for Success Membership!
Every Month as Member You Get to Choose from One of the Following for Support:
🖥️ 1:1 ADVISING CALL with either Sonja, Jessie or Susan from the NXTVB team.
🎥 HIGHLIGHT FILM professionally produced and done for you.
🗣️ OUR TARGETED TAKE with detailed feedback on one specific part of your process, so it's worth your time and effort!
😎 PLUS SEASONAL OFFER... -
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
01:00 – Why families struggle to plan their camp strategy
02:00 – The role camps play in the recruiting process
03:30 – Why you don’t need camps to get recruited
05:00 – How camps can provide clarity and exposure
06:30 – Understanding the recruiting “funnel”
08:00 – The three main types of volleyball camps
09:00 – Camps hosted at club programs
09:45 – College camps hosted on campus
10:45 – Prospect camps vs. general camps
11:15 – Showcase style camps and evaluations
11:45 – Why strategy matters when choosing campsConnect with Susan:
Check out the website: www.nxtvb.com
Follow on Instagram + TikTok: @hey.susankQuick shoutout to our podcast sponsor University Athlete. The only volleyball-exclusive recruiting platform used by 95% of college coaches. It’s where athletes get seen, get evaluated, and get recruited. Plus it's free and only takes a couple of minutes to activate your profile.
Click the link below to claim your free profile.
CLAIM YOUR FREE PROFILE HERE
If you decide you want to upgrade to the All-Access pass be sure to use the code ‘NXTVB30’ to save 30% on your yearly membership.
Subscription boxes are all the rave (we get it, they are FUN!) and we’ve developed one for the recruiting process that comes with 1:1 support in our new Set for Success Membership!
Every Month as Member You Get to Choose from One of the Following for Support:
🖥️ 1:1 ADVISING CALL with either Sonja, Jessie or Susan from the NXTVB team.
🎥 HIGHLIGHT FILM professionally produced and done for you.
🗣️ OUR TARGETED TAKE with detailed feedback on one specific part of your process, so it's worth your time and effort!
😎 PLUS SEASONAL OFFER... -
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:
Check out the website: www.nxtvb.com
Follow on Instagram + TikTok: @hey.susankQuick shoutout to our podcast sponsor University Athlete. The only volleyball-exclusive recruiting platform used by 95% of college coaches. It’s where athletes get seen, get evaluated, and get recruited. Plus it's free and only takes a couple of minutes to activate your profile.
Click the link below to claim your free profile.
CLAIM YOUR FREE PROFILE HERE
If you decide you want to upgrade to the All-Access pass be sure to use the code ‘NXTVB30’ to save 30% on your yearly membership.
Subscription boxes are all the rave (we get it, they are FUN!) and we’ve developed one for the recruiting process that comes with 1:1 support in our new Set for Success Membership!
Every Month as Member You Get to Choose from One of the Following for Support:
🖥️ 1:1 ADVISING CALL with either Sonja, Jessie or Susan from the NXTVB team.
🎥 HIGHLIGHT FILM professionally produced and done for you.
🗣️ OUR TARGETED TAKE with detailed feedback on one specific part of your process, so it's worth your time and effort!
😎 PLUS SEASONAL OFFER... -
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:
Check out the website: www.nxtvb.com
Follow on Instagram + TikTok: @hey.susankQuick shoutout to our podcast sponsor University Athlete. The only volleyball-exclusive recruiting platform used by 95% of college coaches. It’s where athletes get seen, get evaluated, and get recruited. Plus it's free and only takes a couple of minutes to activate your profile.
Click the link below to claim your free profile.
CLAIM YOUR FREE PROFILE HERE
If you decide you want to upgrade to the All-Access pass be sure to use the code ‘NXTVB30’ to save 30% on your yearly membership.
Subscription boxes are all the rave (we get it, they are FUN!) and we’ve developed one for the recruiting process that comes with 1:1 support in our new Set for Success Membership!
Every Month as Member You Get to Choose from One of the Following for Support:
🖥️ 1:1 ADVISING CALL with either Sonja, Jessie or Susan from the NXTVB team.
🎥 HIGHLIGHT FILM professionally produced and done for you.
🗣️ OUR TARGETED TAKE with detailed feedback on one specific part of your process, so it's worth your time and effort!
😎 PLUS SEASONAL OFFER... -
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
02:36 – What “general interest” actually means (and how letters are sent)
04:53 – Why not receiving one doesn’t eliminate D1 opportunities
07:14 – How many athletes might receive the same letter
09:29 – Why top programs are more selective with general interest
11:40 – Using this information to make informed recruiting decisionsConnect with Susan:
Check out the website: www.nxtvb.com
Follow on Instagram + TikTok: @hey.susankQuick shoutout to our podcast sponsor University Athlete. The only volleyball-exclusive recruiting platform used by 95% of college coaches. It’s where athletes get seen, get evaluated, and get recruited. Plus it's free and only takes a couple of minutes to activate your profile.
Click the link below to claim your free profile.
CLAIM YOUR FREE PROFILE HERE
If you decide you want to upgrade to the All-Access pass be sure to use the code ‘NXTVB30’ to save 30% on your yearly membership.
Subscription boxes are all the rave (we get it, they are FUN!) and we’ve developed one for the recruiting process that comes with 1:1 support in our new Set for Success Membership!
Every Month as Member You Get to Choose from One of the Following for Support:
🖥️ 1:1 ADVISING CALL with either Sonja, Jessie or Susan from the NXTVB team.
🎥 HIGHLIGHT FILM professionally produced and done for you.
🗣️ OUR TARGETED TAKE with detailed feedback on one specific part of your process, so it's worth your time and effort!
😎 PLUS SEASONAL OFFER... -
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:
Check out the website: www.nxtvb.com
Follow on Instagram + TikTok: @hey.susankQuick shoutout to our podcast sponsor University Athlete. The only volleyball-exclusive recruiting platform used by 95% of college coaches. It’s where athletes get seen, get evaluated, and get recruited. Plus it's free and only takes a couple of minutes to activate your profile.
Click the link below to claim your free profile.
CLAIM YOUR FREE PROFILE HERE
If you decide you want to upgrade to the All-Access pass be sure to use the code ‘NXTVB30’ to save 30% on your yearly membership.
Subscription boxes are all the rave (we get it, they are FUN!) and we’ve developed one for the recruiting process that comes with 1:1 support in our new Set for Success Membership!
Every Month as Member You Get to Choose from One of the Following for Support:
🖥️ 1:1 ADVISING CALL with either Sonja, Jessie or Susan from the NXTVB team.
🎥 HIGHLIGHT FILM professionally produced and done for you.
🗣️ OUR TARGETED TAKE with detailed feedback on one specific part of your process, so it's worth your time and effort!
😎 PLUS SEASONAL OFFER... -
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:
Check out the website: www.nxtvb.com
Follow on Instagram + TikTok: @hey.susankQuick shoutout to our podcast sponsor University Athlete. The only volleyball-exclusive recruiting platform used by 95% of college coaches. It’s where athletes get seen, get evaluated, and get recruited. Plus it's free and only takes a couple of minutes to activate your profile.
Click the link below to claim your free profile.
CLAIM YOUR FREE PROFILE HERE
If you decide you want to upgrade to the All-Access pass be sure to use the code ‘NXTVB30’ to save 30% on your yearly membership.
Subscription boxes are all the rave (we get it, they are FUN!) and we’ve developed one for the recruiting process that comes with 1:1 support in our new Set for Success Membership!
Every Month as Member You Get to Choose from One of the Following for Support:
🖥️ 1:1 ADVISING CALL with either Sonja, Jessie or Susan from the NXTVB team.
🎥 HIGHLIGHT FILM professionally produced and done for you.
🗣️ OUR TARGETED TAKE with detailed feedback on one specific part of your process, so it's worth your time and effort!
😎 PLUS SEASONAL OFFER... -
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:
Check out the website: www.nxtvb.com
Follow on Instagram + TikTok: @hey.susankQuick shoutout to our podcast sponsor University Athlete. The only volleyball-exclusive recruiting platform used by 95% of college coaches. It’s where athletes get seen, get evaluated, and get recruited. Plus it's free and only takes a couple of minutes to activate your profile.
Click the link below to claim your free profile.
CLAIM YOUR FREE PROFILE HERE
If you decide you want to upgrade to the All-Access pass be sure to use the code ‘NXTVB30’ to save 30% on your yearly membership.
Subscription boxes are all the rave (we get it, they are FUN!) and we’ve developed one for the recruiting process that comes with 1:1 support in our new Set for Success Membership!
Every Month as Member You Get to Choose from One of the Following for Support:
🖥️ 1:1 ADVISING CALL with either Sonja, Jessie or Susan from the NXTVB team.
🎥 HIGHLIGHT FILM professionally produced and done for you.
🗣️ OUR TARGETED TAKE with detailed feedback on one specific part of your process, so it's worth your time and effort!
😎 PLUS SEASONAL OFFER... - Vis mere
