About this episode
Every athlete dreams of going D1, but what does it actually take, and what does life really look like once you get there? In this episode of the NXTVB Podcast , Susan breaks down the realities of playing Division I volleyball, from the five-month grind of the season to the hidden time commitments no one talks about. She also explains the differences between Power 4 programs, Top 50 schools, and mid-majors, and why understanding these categories is crucial when building your recruiting target list. You’ll learn how scholarships really work at the Division I level, the impact of roster limits and NIL changes, and why finding the right fit matters more than chasing labels. Whether you’re an athlete, parent, or coach, this episode will help you make more informed decisions in the recruiting process. Chapters 00:00 – Welcome + why lived experience shapes perspective 02:00 – The hidden benefits of being a D1 athlete 04:30 – What athletes and families often overlook 06:00 – Season length: D1 vs D2, D3, NAIA, JUCO 09:00 – The reality of time commitments and “voluntary” activities 11:30 – Academic balance and course scheduling during season 13:45 – Who thrives at D1 vs who may prefer D2/D3 16:00 – Power 4 conferences explained (and why it’s no longer Power 5) 18:30 – Why Top 50 programs matter as much as conference labels 21:00 – Mid-majors and realistic recruiting targets 23:00 – Susan’s own recruiting story (from waiting to full ride) 27:30 – How to build a smart target list: reach, targets, and safeties 30:00 – Scholarships explained: full rides, splits, and roster limits 34:00 – New NCAA changes: more flexibility, more packages, NIL impact 37:00 – The truth about financial offers — and why fit still matters most 39:20 – Final takeaways for athletes and parents Click here for a discount on our go-to, and the hands-down best and most affordable Recruiting Tool + Software we recommend every baller has to increase her efficiency in all that she does 👉🏼 PRODUCTIVE RECRUIT Want to support your baller in getting her process started and have an experienced volleyball recruiting advisor walk her through it? Enroll in RECRUIT READY: LAUNCH 🚀 Need help getting unstuck in the recruiting process? Apply for a RECRUITING INTENSIVE. Are you the DIY type? Purchase the GETTING STARTED ACTION PLAN (*note this does not come with Recruiting Software OR 1:1 support) Connect with Susan: Check out the website: www.nxtvb.com Follow on Instagram: @hey.susank P.S. If you’re an athlete with big goals, a parent who wants to support the journey, or a coach who cares deeply about your players, this podcast was made for you. Hit subscribe and come grow with us.