13: The Real Competition in Recruiting (It’s Not Other Athletes)

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.Chapters00:00 Introduction to NXT VB Podcast00:00 – Grounded & Gritty: Kicking Off the Conversation02:00 – The Culture of Privacy in Volleyball Recruiting05:30 – The Myth of Teammates as Competition07:00 – Why Direct Competition Rarely Exists12:00 – The World’s Best Peach: Finding Your Fit14:00 – The Real Competition in Recruiting15:00 – Racing Against Time18:00 – Facing Your Toughest Opponent: Yourself22:00 – Building Belief Through Action26:00 – Shifting Focus: Time + Self Over Others27:00 – Introducing Recruit Ready Launch30:30 – Final Takeaways & Next StepsConnect with Susan:Check out the website: www.nxtvb.comFollow 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 HEREIf 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...