6: The Story Behind NXTVB: How I Found My Way Back to Volleyball

This is the episode that explains it all. Why volleyball. Why mindset. Why Susan.In this heartfelt solo episode, Susan opens up about the real journey behind the NXTVB Podcast and coaching platform. From resigning from a top club director role to almost starting an interior design business—and how a trip to Magnolia, a mindset breakthrough, and a $21K life coaching investment led her right back to volleyball.You’ll hear how Susan’s own experiences as a D1 athlete, coach, mom, and entrepreneur shaped her passion for helping girls not only get recruited—but also become the version of themselves who can thrive in life at the next level.This is the full-circle moment, and the foundation of everything NXTVB stands for.Chapters:00:00 – From Dallas to Waco: how Joanna Gaines sparked this story02:00 – Why Susan almost became an interior designer03:30 – Resigning from her dream volleyball job during COVID06:00 – When the weight loss journey led to a mindset breakthrough08:45 – Discovering coaching tools that changed everything10:30 – The turning point: student-athlete mental health in the headlines12:00 – The moment Susan knew she needed to help athletes13:45 – The $21K life coaching certification (and why it was worth it)15:30 – How her academic background tied into athlete development18:00 – Why she didn’t end up working in athletic departments19:30 – Coaching, club roles, motherhood, and staying in the game21:00 – Why mindset work and recruiting go hand in hand23:30 – The mission of NXTVB: it’s not just about getting recruited24:30 – The real reward: becoming the version of you who can do hard things26:00 – What to expect on this podcast moving forwardConnect with Susan:Check out the website: www.nxtvb.comFollow on Instagram + TikTok: @hey.susankwww.rallysend.comLooking 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.