23: Why Waiting Until College to Build NIL Is a Mistake

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.Chapters00:00 – Why this NIL conversation matters02:00 – Rebecca’s volleyball and NIL journey04:30 – What NIL actually is (and what it’s not)07:00 – Why athletes shouldn’t wait until college to think about NIL10:00 – Common social media mistakes athletes make13:00 – Why follower count doesn’t equal opportunity16:00 – Storytelling, voiceovers, and building real connection19:30 – What brands actually look for in NIL partnerships22:30 – Why local brands are a great starting point25:00 – Confidence, fear, and showing up before you feel ready28:00 – Being seen vs being marketable31:00 – How NIL can benefit both the athlete and the program34:00 – Final advice for athletes and parents navigating NILTo learn more about working with Rebecca to build your athlete's following organically 👇🏼EMAIL [email protected]:Rebecca on Instagram @rebeccaamartinezGigi Artiles on Instagram @gigi.artilesConnect 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...