Bonus Episode: Get to Know Michelle from Prep Dig CA (IG Live Replay)

What does it really take to get noticed in the volleyball world—and what happens behind the scenes of the videos, write-ups, and rankings? In this special bonus episode, Susan sits down with Michelle Gardner, PrepDig California scout, writer, and volleyball superfan, to talk about what it’s like to be on the front lines of athlete exposure.They dive into everything from social media tips and Instagram bios to tournament prep, content creation, and the power of visibility beyond your highlight reel. Whether you're a parent, player, or coach, this episode is packed with insights on how to stand out—and how Michelle’s storytelling-first approach is making a difference for athletes nationwide.Chapters:00:00 – Meet Michelle: How she got into volleyball + PrepDig 03:00 – From athlete to scout: Michelle’s unique journey 05:30 – Building visibility for athletes who often get overlooked 08:45 – Content strategy: How she captures, edits, and posts so much 12:00 – A day in the life at a tournament 15:00 – What makes her write-ups different (and why coaches care) 18:00 – How she stays energized and organized at 12-hour events 21:00 – What athletes don’t realize about getting featured 24:00 – Tips for athletes from smaller towns or low-profile clubs 26:30 – Why Instagram bios matter more than you think 28:00 – Should your recruiting profile be private? (Hint: no) 31:00 – How to practice interview skills + what not to say 35:00 – Warm-up mindset + how to stand out on the bench 38:00 – No perfect path: Why everyone’s recruiting journey is different 42:00 – The impact of female representation in volleyball media 47:00 – How to support PrepDig and stay visible year-roundWhat You’ll Learn:What college coaches are really looking forWhy having a volleyball Instagram is useless if it's privateHow to use your warm-ups, social media, and personality as recruiting toolsWhy storytelling—and not stats—is what separates great athletesThe real behind-the-scenes life of a volleyball content creatorConnect with Michell on IG:  @prepdigca and @coachable247 Visit: www.prepdig.comConnect 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...