Nail The Recruiting Process Podcast

Welcome to the Nail The Recruiting Process Podcast, a podcast to help you realize your dream of wearing a college jersey. Join author and college basketball coaching vet Jared Zeidman as he navigates you through every step of the recruiting process. Podcasts will include deep dives into the data that drives decision making at the collegiate level, as well as interviews with coaches, athletes and impactful members of the sports community. Each podcast will focus on a component of GEAR - the equipment you'll need every day to compete at the next level. GROWTH ORIENTED: Utilize a mindset of continuous improvement that is contagious on the recruiting trail. ENGAGED: Lock in on your process and network with coaches in a manner that leaves lasting impressions. AWARE: Navigate the recruiting landscape with a deep understanding of your strengths, limitations and needs for the perfect fit. READY: Develop a winning attitude that prepares you for the physical, mental and emotional challenges college athletes face. If you're ready to grow, we're ready to go! Thanks for tuning in to the NTRP podcast.

Hiking a Mountain One Step at a Time — A Conversation with Cornell Head Coach Emily Garner 09/16/2025

Hiking a Mountain One Step at a Time — A Conversation with Cornell Head Coach Emily Garner Jared here. This week is the season finale of the NTRP Podcast, and I’m joined by Emily Garner, Head Coach of Cornell Women’s Basketball, for a wide-ranging conversation on what it really takes to build a program in one of the most competitive and academically demanding conferences in the country. Coach Garner’s journey has unfolded almost entirely at elite academic institutions—first as a player at Lafayette, then as a recruiting coordinator at Army, later as the Head Coach at Trinity College (CT), and now leading Cornell. This path has given her a deep perspective on what it means to balance athletics with academics at the highest level, and why that balance shapes not only the recruiting process, but the culture she strives to build every day. Coach Garner dives deep into what it takes to both perform and lead at the high-academic level. It’s a conversation that largely focuses on what it takes from an athlete - both mentally and physically - to navigate the building phase in one of the toughest conferences in the women’s game. For recruits and their families, there’s so much to take from this episode. Coach Garner shares what she values most when evaluating players, how she teaches her team AND staff to separate who they are from what they do, and why learning to manage failure—rather than fearing it—is a skill that can define her players in every room they walk into, not just the gym. This episode offers a very rare window into the mindset of a leader building not just a team, but a lasting culture in one of the most academically and athletically competitive environments imaginable. You won’t want to miss it. ______ Download the NTRP x Athlete Narrative Recruiter App: To obtain more information about my coaching services or to check out the book, visit Have a question that you’d like answered by me or a guest? Have an idea for an episode topic? Have no suggestions but just want to say hello? Email me at RecruitingGEAR@gmail.com Follow me on social media! Instagram - @NailTheRecruitingProcess TikTok - @JaredTheCoach /episode/index/show/9a08fd72-c515-4cce-a071-3c5efbff61a7/id/38243140

Constructing a Culture Beyond the Court — A Conversation with Sacred Heart University Head Coach Anthony Latina 09/09/2025

Constructing a Culture Beyond the Court — A Conversation with Sacred Heart University Head Coach Anthony Latina Constructing a Culture Beyond the Court — A Conversation with Sacred Heart University Head Coach Anthony Latina Jared here. This week I’m joined by Anthony Latina, Head Coach of Sacred Heart Men’s Basketball, for a conversation that looks at culture in its fullest sense—not just within the team, but across an entire campus community. Coach Latina has spent 20 years with the Pioneers, and I can’t wait for you to hear the way that his time there changed how he frames success. It isn’t only about wins or even player development—it’s about building a program where his athletes are visible, engaged, and valued as leaders on their campus. We talk about the intentional steps he and his staff take to connect players to the broader community, and why he believes that buy-in off the court strengthens buy-in on it. Throughout the conversation, Coach Latina explains how culture has to be lived daily: through accountability, shared responsibility, and finding ways for players to make a positive impact wherever they are. He dives into what it means to sustain that culture over years, not just seasons, and how much of recruiting inside of this framework comes down to identifying athletes who embrace those values in addition to being talented enough to play at the D1 level. Everyone says they want to be a part of a great team culture. Well, this is what building and sustaining it actually looks like. So take notes. ______ Download the NTRP x Athlete Narrative Recruiter App: To obtain more information about my coaching services or to check out the book, visit Have a question that you’d like answered by me or a guest? Have an idea for an episode topic? Have no suggestions but just want to say hello? Email me at RecruitingGEAR@gmail.com Follow me on social media! Instagram - @NailTheRecruitingProcess TikTok - @JaredTheCoach /episode/index/show/9a08fd72-c515-4cce-a071-3c5efbff61a7/id/38149580

Training the Mind — A Conversation with David Hitz, Founder of The Neuro Pro 08/26/2025

Training the Mind — A Conversation with David Hitz, Founder of The Neuro Pro Jared here. This episode, I’m joined by David Hitz, founder of The Neuro Pro, for a conversation that pulls back the curtain on how mindfulness and breathwork are becoming a competitive edge for athletes. David has worked with athletes and professionals at all levels to unlock performance through the brain’s ability to rewire itself—what science calls neuroplasticity. We talk about what that actually looks like in training, why so many young athletes struggle with confidence and emotional control, and how something as simple as learning to breathe with intention can reset the body and mind in high-pressure moments. But this interview is not just grounded in theory. David shares practical tools athletes can use right away, from handling nerves before a big game to developing routines that build resilience over time. We dive into why identity matters so much in sport, how athletes can reframe mistakes in the moment, and what separates those who truly grow from those who get stuck in frustration. For recruits and parents, this episode is a reminder that development isn’t just on the court. The best athletes learn to manage their inner game—how they focus, how they recover, and how they respond when things go sideways. This conversation is an introduction on how to train the mind with the same seriousness you train the body, and I hope you get as much out of it as I did. ______ Download the NTRP x Athlete Narrative Recruiter App: To obtain more information about my coaching services or to check out the book, visit Watch the episode to see examples of the breathing techniques: https://youtu.be/Snifu0z2glA Have a question that you’d like answered by me or a guest? Have an idea for an episode topic? Have no suggestions but just want to say hello? Email me at RecruitingGEAR@gmail.com Follow me on social media! Instagram - @NailTheRecruitingProcess TikTok - @JaredTheCoach /episode/index/show/9a08fd72-c515-4cce-a071-3c5efbff61a7/id/37970895

The Science Behind the System - A conversation with Nichols College Head Coach Dan Nagle 08/19/2025

The Science Behind the System - A conversation with Nichols College Head Coach Dan Nagle Jared here. This week I’m joined by one of my oldest basketball buddies Dan Nagle, Head Coach at Nichols College, for a cannonball dive into one of the most unique styles of basketball you’ll see at the college level. Nichols runs “The System,” a high-octane, relentless approach built on pace, pressure, and both shooting and subbing in volume. He’s in the middle of a program re-build at Nichols, who are fresh off their winningest season in more than 15 years. So to say the least, he’s on to something. So much of my advice to young recruits is centered around them developing further awareness, and this interview provides endless opportunities to develop greater awareness about how college coaches analyze the game at the next level. We talk about what it really takes to build buy-in for such a demanding style, why it requires a special type of player, and how it challenges athletes to think differently about their roles. From conditioning and mindset to embracing freedom within structure, Coach Nagle lays out why playing in The System can be so rewarding for some, and so challenging for others. Beyond X’s and O’s, this conversation gets at the heart of recruiting. What kind of player thrives in this environment? What mistakes do recruits make when they underestimate the demands of a style like this? And how do coaches evaluate who truly has the character, toughness, and adaptability to succeed when the game looks nothing like what most high school players are used to? For athletes and parents, this episode is a reminder that not every program looks the same—and that finding the right fit sometimes means embracing something bold, different, and outside the box. Enjoy! ______ Download the NTRP x Athlete Narrative Recruiter App: To obtain more information about my coaching services or to check out the book, visit Have a question that you’d like answered by me or a guest? Have an idea for an episode topic? Have no suggestions but just want to say hello? Email me at RecruitingGEAR@gmail.com Follow me on social media! Instagram - @NailTheRecruitingProcess TikTok - @JaredTheCoach /episode/index/show/9a08fd72-c515-4cce-a071-3c5efbff61a7/id/37881295

The Snow Standard — A Conversation with Snow College Head Coach Andrew May 08/12/2025

Relationships, Development, and Trusting Your Journey — A Conversation with NIU Head Coach Jacey Brooks 08/05/2025

Relationships, Development, and Trusting Your Journey — A Conversation with NIU Head Coach Jacey Brooks Jared here. This week, I’m joined by Jacey Brooks, Head Coach of Northern Illinois Women’s Basketball. We have a candid conversation about development, decision-making, and how to navigate the recruiting process with clarity—especially when you're struggling to make decisions. Coach Brooks has just about seen it all in her coaching journey. She’s served as an assistant and associate head coach at the D1 level, she built a nationally ranked program at the D3 level, and she’s even mentored high-level AAU athletes. Her perspective from both sides of the table gives her a unique lens on the recruiting process—one grounded in honesty, patience, and a belief that the right choice always matters more than the quickest one. We talk about how she evaluates players beyond the stat sheet, why so many recruits misread the process early, and what she wishes every high school athlete and family understood about long-term development. She even walks through how her staff balances recruiting from the portal and high school ranks, and why she feels it’s not more important to ever to have deep and meaningful relationships with her players. Coach Brooks also shares the non-negotiables that drive her culture, how she empowers players through accountability, and why the advice she gives to recruits today isn’t all that different from what she needed to hear herself as a player. Podcast descriptions are meant to be short. But frankly, this description doesn’t even scratch the surface of our deep conversation about real relationships and how those relationships help you navigate some of the hardest decisions you will make. If you're trying to understand what real buy-in looks like, or you're helping someone figure out what matters most in the recruiting process, this conversation offers a thoughtful look at how college coaches see the big picture—on the floor and off it. ______ Download the NTRP x Athlete Narrative Recruiter App: To obtain more information about my coaching services or to check out the book, visit Have a question that you’d like answered by me or a guest? Have an idea for an episode topic? Have no suggestions but just want to say hello? Email me at RecruitingGEAR@gmail.com Follow me on social media! Instagram - @NailTheRecruitingProcess TikTok - @JaredTheCoach /episode/index/show/9a08fd72-c515-4cce-a071-3c5efbff61a7/id/37689930

Standards, Accountability, and Decision making - A Conversation with Saint Francis Head Coach Luke McConnell 07/15/2025

Standards, Accountability, and Decision making - A Conversation with Saint Francis Head Coach Luke McConnell Jared here. This episode, I’m joined by Luke McConnell - Head Coach at Saint Francis University - for a conversation that blends program-building, personal growth, and the mindset that manufactured one of the most improbable Conference Championship runs of the 2024-2025 season. He walks through how Saint Francis found its identity late in the season, bought into one another, and played their best basketball when it mattered most, culminating in the first NCAA Tournament appearance for St. Francis in 34 years. Coach McConnell goes through the nuts and bolts of some of the most important decisions that drove winning, including his team’s late-game philosophy—why they don’t use timeouts in certain crunch time situations—and how that trust gets built in practice, film, and repetition. When we turn to the player development piece, Coach McConnell explains why decision-making and spacing are at the heart of how he teaches the game. You won’t want to miss how this plays into the way he evaluates recruits ability AND character. Of note, Coach McConnell took the reins of a program he’d been part of for over a decade—just weeks after becoming a first-time father. We talk not only about what the position means to him, but also how his leadership lens is impacted by the arrival of his baby daughter. This is a “look under the hood” episode with tons of ideas that both players and coaches can easily apply to their own practices. And it's coming from someone who’s taken the journey from GA to Head Coach at his alma mater. If you’re a recruit, parent, or coach looking to understand what development really looks like at the college level, this one’s worth your time. ______ Support the O’Donnell Family: Download the NTRP x Athlete Narrative Recruiter App: To obtain more information about my coaching services or to check out the book, visit Have a question that you’d like answered by me or a guest? Have an idea for an episode topic? Have no suggestions but just want to say hello? Email me at RecruitingGEAR@gmail.com Follow me on social media! Instagram - @NailTheRecruitingProcess TikTok - @JaredTheCoach /episode/index/show/9a08fd72-c515-4cce-a071-3c5efbff61a7/id/37417865

Bonus Pod: A tour of the NTRP/AN Recruiter App with Athlete Narrative VP David Hitz 07/08/2025

Bonus Pod: A tour of the NTRP/AN Recruiter App with Athlete Narrative VP David Hitz Episode: Behind the App — How Athlete Narrative is Changing the Game with David Hitz In this bonus episode of The Nail the Recruiting Process Podcast, we’re stepping off the court and into the digital side of recruiting. With the live evaluation season in full swing and coaches on the road, I wanted to give athletes and families a deeper look into a tool that aims to level the playing field: the Athlete Narrative Recruiter app. I’m joined by David Hitz, VP of Operations at Athlete Narrative, for a walkthrough of how the platform works—and why it’s built differently. We talk about why so many recruiting services miss the mark, how this app empowers athletes to own their outreach, and how it helps them do in 30 seconds what used to take 15 minutes: clean, customized, emails that open doors. David and I also dig into: The origin of the app, born from real parents trying to help their kids navigate recruiting The Radar Page—a personalized athlete landing page that becomes your digital resume How the app pulls from your Radar to draft a tailored email, and then hands full control to you for final edits inside your own email Why personalization still matters—and how the app helps athletes do it faster How email tracking, contact management, and in-app research tools help athletes stay organized, informed, and strategic Why this tool is about ownership, not automation—and how it keeps athletes at the center of the process If you're a player or parent overwhelmed by outreach, or just looking for a smarter, more efficient way to connect with college coaches, this episode is a must-listen. You’ll not only hear the why—but you’ll also get a full walkthrough of the how. 🎯 And don’t forget—listeners can now sign up for the Nail the Recruiting Process version of the Athlete Narrative Recruiter app and get 2 months for just $20. Link in the episode description. ______ Take the video tour of the NTRP/AN Recruiter app: https://youtu.be/8sk_EuOsmKs Download the NTRP x Athlete Narrative Recruiter App: To obtain more information about my coaching services or to check out the book, visit Have a question that you’d like answered by me or a guest? Have an idea for an episode topic? Have no suggestions but just want to say hello? Email me at RecruitingGEAR@gmail.com Follow me on social media! Instagram - @NailTheRecruitingProcess TikTok - @JaredTheCoach /episode/index/show/9a08fd72-c515-4cce-a071-3c5efbff61a7/id/37336155

The Turning Point (PT: 2) — The Home Stretch of Year One with the Canisius Women’s Basketball Coaching Staff 07/02/2025

The Turning Point (PT: 2) — The Home Stretch of Year One with the Canisius Women’s Basketball Coaching Staff Jared here, and I’m going to put it simply: I’ve never heard a coach publicly share the types of stories you’re about to hear in this episode of the podcast. We continue our deep dive with Tiffany Swoffard, Head Coach of Canisius Women’s Basketball, as she reflects on the most pivotal stretch of her first season. If Part 1 was about laying the foundation, Part 2 is about testing it. This is where the values she preached in preseason collided with real adversity—and the story of how what followed changed the trajectory of the entire year. Follow Coach Swoffard and her staff through a 3 game losing streak that put their backs against the ropes and their postseason hopes on the line. Learn about the breaking point that the team experienced, and how the staff responded. And prepare to be amazed by the sacrifice of one senior leader that propelled the team forward down the stretch. We explore how true accountability—naming your role in a loss, then owning your words and actions—can actually build trust when it's delivered with care and consistency. This wasn’t just about strategy—it was about clarity, communication, and the daily work of culture. In the second half of the episode, the entire Canisius coaching staff jumps on. They share the inside story of the staff’s own growth through the season, what they look for in recruits now, and how the experience shaped their standard going forward. This isn’t a recap of games—it’s a case study in leadership, player development, and the real work behind building a Division I program. For players, parents, and coaches looking to understand how college basketball really works when no one’s watching—this is a must-listen. ______ Download the NTRP x Athlete Narrative Recruiter App: To obtain more information about my coaching services or to check out the book, visit Have a question that you’d like answered by me or a guest? Have an idea for an episode topic? Have no suggestions but just want to say hello? Email me at RecruitingGEAR@gmail.com Follow me on social media! Instagram - @NailTheRecruitingProcess TikTok - @JaredTheCoach /episode/index/show/9a08fd72-c515-4cce-a071-3c5efbff61a7/id/37249155

Building the Foundation (PT: 1): A behind the scenes look at year one at Canisius University with Head Coach Tiffany Swoffard 06/24/2025

Building the Foundation (PT: 1): A behind the scenes look at year one at Canisius University with Head Coach Tiffany Swoffard Jared here, and this one is not going to be your standard interview with a basketball coach. In the first of a two-part episode, I am joined by Canisius University Head Coach Tiffany Swoffard. But to put it more accurately, I WAS joined by Coach Swoffard for the entirety of the 2024-2025 season, in order to provide listeners with a behind-the-scenes look at what it really means to build a Division I program from the ground up. We captured the challenges, breakthroughs, and foundational moments that come with leading an almost entirely new roster with no shared on-court history. In this episode, Coach Swoffard shares what it’s looked like to prioritize growth over outcomes, why culture fit matters more than talent in recruiting, and how she’s helped her players shift from simply hearing praise to embracing feedback. She talks about what it means to teach the why behind every decision, why her staff treats non-conference games as preparation for March, and how intentional habits—not results—are the foundation for long-term success. More than anything, she reflects on what it means to lead a group that chose her—how she’s worked to earn their trust, hold them accountable, and build something sustainable. This episode is a rare, honest glimpse into the process of building a Division I culture from scratch, and what it takes to lead with clarity, conviction, and care. If everything above isn’t enough to convince you to tune in, here’s an important fact that drives the interview: Coach Swoffard’s way works. Canisius was picked to finish dead last in the MAAC in her first year, and her Griffs instead finished tied for 6th. Coach Swoffard’s vision, style, and teachings propelled the shockingly fast growth of a team that had extremely limited D1 playing experience. So, you’re going to want to hear about how she puts it all together. If you’re a recruit hoping to understand what D1 basketball actually demands—or a coach who knows that success is built well before the wins—this is one you don’t want to miss. ___ Download the NTRP x Athlete Narrative Recruiter App: To obtain more information about my coaching services or to check out the book, visit Have a question that you’d like answered by me or a guest? Have an idea for an episode topic? Have no suggestions but just want to say hello? Email me at RecruitingGEAR@gmail.com Follow me on social media! Instagram - @NailTheRecruitingProcess TikTok - @JaredTheCoach /episode/index/show/9a08fd72-c515-4cce-a071-3c5efbff61a7/id/37117805

Culture, Clarity, and the Meep Mentality — with Fairfield WBB Assistant Coach Blake DuDonis 06/10/2025

Culture, Clarity, and the Meep Mentality — with Fairfield WBB Assistant Coach Blake DuDonis Jared here, and this week I’m joined by Fairfield Assistant Coach Blake DuDonis. Blake is one of my favorite minds (and also one of the most outstanding communicators) in college basketball. During Blake’s time as an assistant under coach Carly Thibault-Dudonis, Fairfield has become a force in mid-major D1 basketball, winning back-to-back MAAC championships and recently earning an invitation to USA Basketball’s 3x3 Nationals. We dive deep into how Fairfield has built a culture rooted in trust, role clarity, and honest coaching. This includes the staff’s use of real data to define roles and guide player development. On the subject of roles, prepare for a thorough look at their now-famous "Roadrunner" position group, and how their staff balances hard coaching, real relationships, and gold old fashioned meep. Blake then walks me through Fairfield’s unexpected 3x3 USA Basketball experience— from the invite, to the prep work, to the discovery that Fairfield’s style translated beautifully to the 3x3 game, to the takeaways from the experience. This retrospective ends with a must-hear take from Coach Blake himself on why 3X3 is such an untapped tool for development at every level of the sport. I close my chat with Blake with some “real talk amongst friends” about the recruiting process, and it’s worth listening to every second if you’re a PSA or parent who wants to stay competitive in a rapidly changing recruiting landscape. If you’re trying to understand what fit looks and feels like, how elite college programs think, or what really makes a recruit stand out—this episode will answer your questions and then some. _____ : Have a question that you’d like answered by me or a guest? Have an idea for an episode topic? Have no suggestions but just want to say hello? Email me at RecruitingGEAR@gmail.com Follow me on social media! Instagram - @NailTheRecruitingProcess TikTok - @JaredTheCoach /episode/index/show/9a08fd72-c515-4cce-a071-3c5efbff61a7/id/36943940

Episode: International 3X3 Mastery, and the Final Push — with Team Canada’s Katherine Plouffe 06/03/2025

Inside the Evaluation Process with Wisconsin-River Falls Head Coach Shelby Lyman 05/27/2025

Inside the Evaluation Process with Wisconsin-River Falls Head Coach Shelby Lyman Inside the Evaluation Process with Wisconsin-River Falls Head Coach Shelby Lyman Jared here. In this week’s episode, we’re pulling the curtain all the way back. I’m joined by Coach Shelby Lyman, head coach at Wisconsin-River Falls. Together, we’re going to walk you through literally every part of an evaluation of a prospective college athlete. If you’ve ever wondered how college coaches decide who they’re watching, what they’re watching for, and how they follow up—this is the episode for you. We break down what it looks like from a coach’s perspective during live recruiting periods, from what gets an athlete on their radar, to what actually leads to a roster spot or scholarship offer. When it comes to areas of expertise, Coach Lyman brings a rare combination of experiences to the table. She had an exceptional playing career at Cornell, she’s coached at both the D1 and D3 levels, and she is also coaching an AAU team during UWRF's offseason. Everything she is telling you on this podcast is EXACTLY what she is telling her team of 16U athletes who aspire to play college ball themselves. We also talk about the strategic side of building a roster at the D3 level—how finances, culture, and growth opportunities play a role—and why the top of Division III isn’t just competitive, but comparable to some scholarship programs. If you're a recruit, parent, or coach trying to REALLY understand how college staffs evaluate talent, fit, and long-term potential—this episode is a must-listen. ____ Download the NTRP x Athlete Narrative Recruiter App: To obtain more information about my coaching services or to check out the book, visit Have a question that you’d like answered by me or a guest? Have an idea for an episode topic? Have no suggestions but just want to say hello? Email me at RecruitingGEAR@gmail.com Follow me on social media! Instagram - @NailTheRecruitingProcess TikTok - @JaredTheCoach /episode/index/show/9a08fd72-c515-4cce-a071-3c5efbff61a7/id/36728580

Coaching with Purpose in a Changing Game — with BU Head Coach Joe Jones 05/20/2025

Leveraging the Transfer Portal and Building a Conference Champion with the UMASS Dartmouth Corsairs 05/06/2025

A 360 look at high-level men’s basketball recruiting with Jon Soch of Suited Scouting 04/29/2025

A 360 look at high-level men’s basketball recruiting with Jon Soch of Suited Scouting Jared here, and today I’m joined by Jon Soch — one of the most respected young scouts in men's basketball. Through his work with Suited Scouting, Jon has built deep connections with Division 1 college programs and NBA teams, specializing in evaluating the very best prospects across North America. We dive into what recruitment actually looks like behind the scenes — from realizing what “hard work” ACTUALLY looks like, to visualizing the concept of “stealing” recruitment. You’ll also learn what separates the top of a scout’s recruiting list from the rest of the pack, including strategies that coaches use to find (and prioritize) the best fits as well as the toughest and most prepared athletes. In the second half of the episode, I ask Jon to assess my teaching practices, and it results in a back and forth about the transfer portal that you will not want to miss. Be ready to learn A LOT about why mentorship and planning is so important, as well as how to find the right mentor for you. Whether you’re navigating high school recruitment, eyeing a transfer, or just trying to understand the evolving demands of high-level basketball, this conversation is packed with real-world insights that I truly believe you won't find anywhere else. If you want to know what it really takes to earn a spot at the next level, you don’t want to miss this one. __________ Learn more about Jon: Contact Jon with questions via email at btjonsoc@gmail.com Download the NTRP x Athlete Narrative Recruiter App: To obtain more information about my coaching services or to check out the book, visit Have a question that you’d like answered by me or a guest? Have an idea for an episode topic? Have no suggestions but just want to say hello? Email me at RecruitingGEAR@gmail.com Follow me on social media! Instagram - @NailTheRecruitingProcess TikTok - @JaredTheCoach /episode/index/show/9a08fd72-c515-4cce-a071-3c5efbff61a7/id/36362855

Building Resilience with Mental Performance Coach Kristin Tullo 04/22/2025

Season 2 Preview 04/20/2025

Episode 18: The Season 1 Finale 11/05/2024

Episode 17: Interview with Columbia WBB Head Coach Megan Griffith 10/29/2024

Episode 16: Interview with Marshall WBB Head Coach Juli Fulks 10/22/2024

Episode 15: Hard Work and Resilience with Motivational Speaker and Basketball Coach Cornell Thomas 10/16/2024

Episode 15: Hard Work and Resilience with Motivational Speaker and Basketball Coach Cornell Thomas Jared here, and this week we close out our 3-part series on the “how.” I’m joined by Cornell Thomas, a motivational speaker, author, and basketball coach. Cornell is here to talk about his incredible journey to a professional basketball contract after not picking up a basketball until age 16. You read that correctly. You’re going to learn about how a kid who did not play basketball until he was a junior in high school became a dominant athlete. The word of the day is “resilience,” And Cornell Thomas is going to show you how far resilience and a strong work ethic can take you. Be ready to take some important notes on mental toughness, the power of showing up consistently, and why belief is the key to success both on and off the court. After Cornell shares his story - which is going to wow anyone with a pulse - I put him on the hot-seat about the recruiting process. You’re going to want to stick around to hear the practical advice he has for young athletes, especially when it comes to self-awareness and gratitude. The insights you’re about to hear are not just inspiring, they’re also actionable. Most of you have a HUGE head start on Cornell; you simply have to execute his gameplan. Now strap in and give that gameplan a listen. For more about Cornell: Follow on TikTok: @cornellthomas96 Follow on IG: @cornellthomas34 Learn more about Cornell’s books and speaking engagements: Cornell’s AAU program - Crossroads Basketball: ________________ Have a question that you’d like answered by me or a guest? Have an idea for an episode topic? Have no suggestions but just want to say hello? Email me at RecruitingGEAR@gmail.com To obtain more information about my coaching services or to check out the book, visit Follow me on social media! Instagram - @NailTheRecruitingProcess X (Twitter) / TikTok - @JaredTheCoach /episode/index/show/9a08fd72-c515-4cce-a071-3c5efbff61a7/id/33491692

Episode 14: Developing Basketball Skills with Rod Middleton and Tony Watson of Pro Training Basketball 10/08/2024

Episode 14: Developing Basketball Skills with Rod Middleton and Tony Watson of Pro Training Basketball Jared here, and it’s time for part two of our three part “how to get better’ series. I’m joined by Tony Watson and Rod Middleton of Pro Training Basketball. Rod and Tony both played DI ball at UB and both went on to be professional players in Europe. They’ve also been training young hoopers for more than a decade and are here to dive deep into what it really takes to play at the next level. This episode is minute-for-minute the most informative basketball discussion I’ve ever been a part of. We break down the non-negotiable skills every high school athlete should be working on, what everyday workouts should include, and what “hard work” actually looks like. Most importantly, you’ll learn what most high school athletes get wrong about their training sessions, and how to fix it. High school athletes and parents are going to want to have a pen ready, because there’s a lot to take note of here. The Pro Training guys also teach you exactly how to avoid the traps of social media basketball hype, focusing instead on consistent fundamentals and skills that will actually help you grow as a player. Regardless of the competitive level you are aiming for, you’re about to come away with tools that will help you elevate your game, set realistic goals, and stand out to college coaches. This episode is packed with practical advice and real-world experience from two professionals who’ve been through it all. Interview with Tony and Rod begins at 17:15. Follow the links below for way more information from Pro Training Basketball Instagram and TikTok: @ProfectYourGame Pro Training HQs: The Hooper’s Handbook: The most incredible collection of workout drills you will find, literally anywhere: ________________ Have a question that you’d like answered by me or a guest? Have an idea for an episode topic? Have no suggestions but just want to say hello? Email me at RecruitingGEAR@gmail.com To obtain more information about my coaching services or to check out the book, visit Follow me on social media! Instagram - @NailTheRecruitingProcess X (Twitter) / TikTok - @JaredTheCoach /episode/index/show/9a08fd72-c515-4cce-a071-3c5efbff61a7/id/33379402

Episode 13: Getting Stronger with “Project Pure Athlete” Strength Coach Chase Skinkis 10/02/2024

Episode 13: Getting Stronger with “Project Pure Athlete” Strength Coach Chase Skinkis Jared here. And today, we focus on getting stronger. I’m joined by Chase Skinkis of Project Pure Athlete. We dive into his unique story of how he transformed his body and his game after college, leveraging a combination of his passion for basketball and an engineering-based approach to physical improvement. You’ll learn the science behind improving athleticism from a world-reknowned dunker with 4-foot vertical (this is not a typo). You’ll also hear about how Chase’s commitment to strength and conditioning opened previously unimaginable doors for him, including “behind the scenes” work with NBA slam dunk contest participants. Throughout the episode, we cover the essential principles of strength and conditioning for high school athletes. Chase breaks down the importance of injury prevention, the benefits of strength training, and why young athletes should start dynamic stretching and hitting the weightroom early. In his own words; “it was never about dunking, it was about getting better at basketball.” The dunking is fun, but this is about the work it takes to become a stronger, more resilient athlete. This episode is packed with valuable insights on how to maximize your potential through proper training, goal-setting, and hard work. Tune in to learn from one of the best in the business! Follow the links below for more on Coach Chase! Instagram: @JumpGuyChase Dunk Highlights: Project Pure Athlete: https://projectpureathlete.com ________________ Have a question that you’d like answered by me or a guest? Have an idea for an episode topic? Have no suggestions but just want to say hello? Email me at RecruitingGEAR@gmail.com To obtain more information about my coaching services or to check out the book, visit Follow me on social media! Instagram - @NailTheRecruitingProcess X (Twitter) / TikTok - @JaredTheCoach /episode/index/show/9a08fd72-c515-4cce-a071-3c5efbff61a7/id/33301167

Episode 12: Recruiting Process Mythbusting with Coach Allison Roberts 09/24/2024

Episode 12: Recruiting Process Mythbusting with Coach Allison Roberts Jared here, and today, I’m joined by Coach Allison Roberts, an expert in the field of college volleyball recruiting and the founder of "How to Get Recruited.” Now, you may be wondering why I’m so excited to have a volleyball recruiting specialist on my basketball recruiting podcast. Boy, am I happy you asked! Coach Allison and I have gotten to know one another over the past year, and we realized that the volleyball and basketball recruiting spaces have a TON in common. We use this podcast to dive into these similarities and address the universal challenges high school athletes face as they try to find their dream college. Before Coach Allison started her company, she was a former college athlete AND college coach. You’ll learn what it was like for Coach Allison to navigate her recruiting process without much guidance, and how some small assumptions nearly threw a huge wrench in her experience. In addition to a metric ton of advice for high schoolers and their families, this episode is also bookended by some mythbusting. We tackle common misunderstandings about college athletics, specifically about the different competitive divisions and what athletes should really be looking for. Get ready for an hour of invaluable tips on how you can take control of your recruiting journey, reach out to coaches with confidence, and make smart decisions that will set you up for success both on and off the court. You’re definitely going to want to find Coach Allison after listening, so here’s all the info you need: Instagram/TikTok - @HowToGetRecruited X (Twitter) - @HTGRecruited ________________ Have a question that you’d like answered by me or a guest? Have an idea for an episode topic? Have no suggestions but just want to say hello? Email me at RecruitingGEAR@gmail.com To obtain more information about my coaching services or to check out the book, visit Follow me on social media! Instagram - @NailTheRecruitingProcess X (Twitter) / TikTok - @JaredTheCoach /episode/index/show/9a08fd72-c515-4cce-a071-3c5efbff61a7/id/33180582

Episode 11: The High Academic D3 Episode with Hamilton College Head Coach Mahogany Green 09/17/2024

Episode 10: Interview with New Hampshire Assistant Coach Joe Rutigliano 08/20/2024

Episode 9 - Interview with Indiana State WBB Head Coach Marc Mitchell 08/13/2024

Episode 9 - Interview with Indiana State WBB Head Coach Marc Mitchell Jared here, and I’ll be honest, this is a special one. More than a decade ago, I decided to change careers, leave a lot of money on the table, take a huge pay cut and pursue a career in college basketball coaching. A lot of people thought I was nuts. But at that time, I obtained some supporting evidence in the form of a New York Times article about Marc Mitchell. Coach Mitchell had ZERO college coaching experience until he was 40 years-old, and went on to win a D3 National championship with FDU Florham. His story was all the proof I needed to believe that any risk would pay off if I worked hard enough. In today’s episode, I sit down with Coach Mitchell, who is now Head Coach at Indiana State. Coach Mitchell is known for his incredible ability to turn programs around, and we dive into everything it takes to build a program, including (as you can probably imagine) recruiting. We also dive deep into Mitchell’s personal journey, even discussing (and this is 100% true) the time he told FDU Florham’s administrative team - while on his job interview - that he would win a national championship there. He won the D3 National championship there four years later. Coach Mitchell shares the behind-the-scenes stories of his recruiting strategies, including the relentless pursuit of top talent and the importance of outworking other coaches when building a program. Tune in to hear insights from a coach who not only talks the talk but has proven time and again that he's willing to walk the walk, all while staying true to his values and vision. If you're passionate about coaching, leadership, or simply love a great story, this episode is for you! – – – – – – – – – – Have a question that you’d like answered by me or a guest? Have an idea for an episode topic? Have no suggestions but just want to say hello? Email me at RecruitingGEAR@gmail.com To obtain more information about my coaching services or to check out the book, visit Follow me on social media! Instagram - @NailTheRecruitingProcess X (Twitter) / TikTok - @JaredTheCoach /episode/index/show/9a08fd72-c515-4cce-a071-3c5efbff61a7/id/32558062

Episode 8: Interview with Sacramento State Head Coach Aaron Kallhoff 08/06/2024

Episode 8: Interview with Sacramento State Head Coach Aaron Kallhoff Jared here, and be advised: a HIGH ENERGY podcast is coming your way. This week, I'm joined by Aaron Kallhoff, Head Coach of Sacramento State Women's Basketball. Coach Kallhoff is known for his contagious energy, his developmental expertise and his incredible resume as a recruiter at multiple competitive levels. Put these things together, and you’ve got a must listen episode for anyone passionate about becoming a college athlete. In our conversation, Coach Kallhoff discusses his remarkable journey that started at the JUCO level both as a player AND as a coach. We delve into his coaching philosophy, his approach to recruiting and the importance of building a team culture that “only takes everyone.” We also explore some of the challenges and triumphs Coach Kallhoff has faced throughout his career. He provides a behind-the-scenes look at the realities of the collegiate level, sharing stories that highlight the importance of perseverance and staying true to one's values. In addition to all of his great coaching experience, Coach Kallhoff also has a daughter who is currently navigating the college recruiting process. Parents won’t want to miss the advice he has for them. Oh yeah, about that one small part at the end…Coach Kallhoff is dead serious about rewarding young people who are willing to take the initiative. As long as you are prepared to hear the feedback, Coach Kallhoff will watch your film. His email address is below if you want to take him up on it (and frankly, I don’t know why you wouldn’t). kallhoff@csus.edu – – – – – – – – – – Have a question that you’d like answered by me or a guest? Have an idea for an episode topic? Have no suggestions but just want to say hello? Email me at RecruitingGEAR@gmail.com To obtain more information about my coaching services or to check out the book, visit Follow me on social media! Instagram - @NailTheRecruitingProcess X (Twitter) / TikTok - @JaredTheCoach /episode/index/show/9a08fd72-c515-4cce-a071-3c5efbff61a7/id/32450642

Episode 7: The D3 Mythbusting Episode Featuring Zach Filzen and Sean Smiley 07/30/2024

Nail The Recruiting Process Podcast

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