The Recruit Grind

The Recruit Grind

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The Recruit Grind episodes

  • Everything You Need to Know About Camps and Which Ones You Need to Go To

    Summary
    The conversation covers the different types of camps, including institutional camps and non-institutional camps. Institutional camps are run by college football programs and are usually held on campus or at satellite locations. Non-institutional camps include elite camps, showcases, combines, and private camps. Attending institutional camps provides the opportunity to get in front of college coaches and showcase your skills. Non-institutional camps offer exposure, skills development, and educational opportunities. The Recruit Grind Combine Showcase is a low-cost camp that aims to provide access and opportunities for athletes. Registration is open to everyone.

    Takeaways

    • There are two types of camps: institutional camps and non-institutional camps.
    • Institutional camps are run by college football programs and provide the opportunity to get in front of college coaches.
    • Non-institutional camps offer exposure, skills development, and educational opportunities.
    • The Recruit Grind Combine Showcase is a low-cost camp that aims to provide access and opportunities for athletes.

    Chapters

    00:00 - Introduction and Overview

    01:42 - Types of Camps: Institutional Camps

    06:03 - Types of Camps: Non-Institutional Camps

    14:44 - Benefits of Non-Institutional Camps

    26:27 - Recruit Grind Combine Showcase

    33:02 - What to Expect at the Showcase

    35:19 - Registration and Conclusion

    Find more great content to help you get recruited at www.recruitgrind.com 

    I get it, podcasts can be long at times. If you want to see some quick highlights from each episode as well as some great recruiting tips, follow us on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter (@therecruitgrind).

    And remember, don't stop GRINDING! 

    37 min
  • The GRINDHOUSE: Coach Kurt Taufa'asau talks NMMI Football & More

    Summary
    Kurt Taufa'asau shares his journey from playing football at New Mexico Military Institute and the University of Wyoming to getting a shot in the NFL and transitioning to coaching. He highlights the importance of relationships and networking in the football industry and the challenges of making it to the professional level. Kurt's story is a testament to the opportunities and growth that can come from pursuing a passion for the game. Coach Kurt Taufa'asau discusses his unique path into coaching and the challenges of transitioning from high school to college coaching. He highlights the recruiting process at the New Mexico Military Institute (Nimi) and emphasizes the benefits of the structured environment and the strong relationships built within the program. Coach Taufa'asau shares his recruiting pitch and invites potential recruits and their families to visit Nimi. He also offers advice to recruits, emphasizing the importance of hard work and commitment. The conversation concludes with a discussion of the upcoming season and a message of gratitude.

    Takeaways

    • Building relationships and networking are crucial in the football industry.
    • Making it to the professional level requires perseverance and a strong support system.
    • Transitioning from playing to coaching can provide new opportunities and a chance to stay involved in the game.
    • The journey of a football player is filled with challenges and unexpected twists, but it's important to embrace the process and learn from every experience.

    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction and Background
    02:53 Starting at New Mexico Military Institute
    07:51 Transition to University of Wyoming
    12:53 Playing in the NFL
    31:35 Stepping into Coaching
    33:04 Transitioning to the College Level
    36:41 Recruiting at Nimi
    44:23 The Unique Experience of Nimi
    50:48 Recruiting at Nimi (Continued)
    56:04 Advice for Recruits
    01:04:26 Upcoming Season and Closing Remarks


    Find more great content to help you get recruited at www.recruitgrind.com 

    I get it, podcasts can be long at times. If you want to see some quick highlights from each episode as well as some great recruiting tips, follow us on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter (@therecruitgrind).

    And remember, don't stop GRINDING! 

    1 hr 7 min
  • NIL & Recruitment Reinvented: Discussing GMs in College Sports

    Summary
    The conversation explores the idea of having a general manager (GM) in college football to handle NIL negotiations and recruitment. The challenges of advancing in coaching and the responsibilities that come with higher positions are discussed. The need for a GM to handle NIL deals is highlighted, along with the challenges of fulfilling these deals. The perspective of coaches on players seeking their own NIL deals is examined. The role of a facilitator for NIL deals is explored, as well as the possibility of implementing a collective cap for NIL deals. The chapter concludes with advice for high school athletes on standing out in the recruiting process. The conversation covers challenges faced by student-athletes, the controversy surrounding the EA Sports NCAA Football game, the distribution of money in the game, coaches' time and family, and the benefits of having an NIL program.

    Takeaways
    Student-athletes face challenges such as limited class options and living accommodations that may affect their ability to pursue their desired degree.
    The controversy surrounding the EA Sports NCAA Football game revolves around the distribution of money to players. The $600 offered to players seems low compared to the revenue generated by the game.
    Coaches often spend more time with their athletes than with their own families, highlighting the sacrifices they make for their profession.
    Having an NIL program in place can provide opportunities for student-athletes to benefit from their name, image, and likeness while also allowing them to build relationships with coaches and navigate the recruiting process more effectively.

    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction and Background
    02:24 The Need for a General Manager in College Football
    06:16 The Challenges of Advancing in Coaching
    09:08 The Role of a General Manager in College Football
    13:20 The Challenges of Fulfilling NIL Deals
    21:58 The Role of a Facilitator for NIL Deals
    27:39 Implementing a Collective Cap for NIL Deals
    29:20 Managing Scholarships and NIL Deals
    31:45 Standing Out as a High School Athlete
    37:22 Challenges for Student-Athletes
    45:28 Controversy Surrounding EA Sports NCAA Football Game
    59:04 Distribution of Money in the Game
    01:04:10 Coaches' Time and Family
    01:08:20 Benefits of Having an NIL Program

    Find more great content to help you get recruited at www.recruitgrind.com 

    I get it, podcasts can be long at times. If you want to see some quick highlights from each episode as well as some great recruiting tips, follow us on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter (@therecruitgrind).

    And remember, don't stop GRINDING! 

    1 hr 15 min
  • Mastering the Mental Game with Riley Jensen: Strategies for Athletes

    Summary
    Riley Jensen, a mental performance coach and former football player, discusses the importance of resilience, positive self-talk, and focusing on strengths in the recruiting process and in life. He emphasizes the value of football in building confidence, character, and the ability to handle pressure. Jensen also highlights the need for individuals to control the controllables, manage stress, and make decisions based on personal happiness. He encourages athletes to avoid comparison and to embrace their unique strengths and abilities. In this conversation, Funaki Asisi discusses the power of body language and emotions, the importance of self-awareness and controlling reactions, and the impact of awareness in sports psychology. He also reflects on Travis Kelsey's reaction and the need for public apology. Asisi emphasizes the importance of controlling reactions to influence outcomes and the impact of reactions on others. He discusses the power of a million small reactions and the role of momentum in football and life. Finally, he shares the purpose of his book 'Pure Unadulterated Guts' and the value of tools for personal growth.

    Takeaways
    Football builds resilience, character, and the ability to handle pressure.
    Focus on controlling the controllables and managing stress in the recruiting process.
    Avoid comparison and embrace your unique strengths and abilities.
    Positive self-talk and body language can have a significant impact on confidence and performance. Body language and emotions can have a significant impact on communication and performance.
    Self-awareness is crucial in sports psychology and personal growth.
    Controlling reactions can influence outcomes and build momentum.
    The impact of reactions extends beyond oneself and can affect others.
    Tools and resources can help individuals improve their reactions and achieve their goals.

    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction and Shoutout to Pure Energy Solar
    01:20 Appreciation for Football and the Recruiting Process
    04:02 Riley Jensen's Background and Career Path
    05:27 Riley Jensen's Work as a Mental Performance Coach
    07:53 The Importance of Making Career Changes
    08:17 The Influence of a Friend's Advice
    09:43 Overcoming Challenges and Taking Risks
    10:38 The Impact of Positive Support and Encouragement
    12:32 The Value of Junior College in Football
    13:52 The Benefits of Playing Football
    16:17 The Importance of Hustling and Working Hard
    17:29 The Role of Resilience in Football
    18:54 The Pressure and Mental Challenges in Football
    19:44 The Impact of Football on Confidence and Self-Talk
    21:38 The Challenges and Rewards of Broadcasting
    22:29 The Importance of Preparation and Focus in Broadcasting
    23:51 The Influence of Football on Confidence and Self-Talk
    25:18 The Need for Resilience and Growth in Society
    26:42 Applying Football Lessons to Other Areas of Life
    28:34 The Impact of Football on Identity and Character
    29:33 Managing Stress and Pressure in the Recruiting Process
    30:59 Controlling the Controllables in the Recruiting Process
    32:50 The Power of Positive Self-Talk and Body Language
    35:13 Choosing a School Based on Personal Happiness
    37:34 Avoiding Comparison and Focusing on Strengths
    39:55 Overcoming Negative Self-Talk and Building Confidence
    47:27 The Power of Body Language and Emotions
    48:50 Self-Awareness and Controlling Reactions
    49:46 The Importance of Awareness in Sports Psychology
    50:39 Travis Kelsey's Reaction and Building Awareness
    5

    Find more great content to help you get recruited at www.recruitgrind.com 

    I get it, podcasts can be long at times. If you want to see some quick highlights from each episode as well as some great recruiting tips, follow us on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter (@therecruitgrind).

    And remember, don't stop GRINDING! 

    1 hr 17 min
  • Junior College Football with Trever McFalls at Snow College

    Summary
    Coach Trever McFalls shares his journey from high school to college football, including his recruiting experience and decision to attend Southern Utah University. He discusses the challenges of starting the recruiting process late and the importance of sending out film early. Coach McFalls also talks about his transition from playing to coaching, his time at Utah State, and his current role at Snow College. He highlights the differences in recruiting at different levels and the importance of graphics in the recruiting process. In this part of the conversation, Funaki Asisi discusses the different options for high school athletes looking to play college football, including choosing between Division 2, Division 3, and Junior College. He emphasizes the importance of Junior College in player development and the opportunities it provides for athletes to improve their skills and gain exposure. Funaki also reviews the recruitment process at Snow College and highlights several standout players from their recent recruiting class, including Viliami Fifita, Damien Nelson, Mataira Brown, Daeqwan Snider, and Damien Otukolu. In this conversation, the guest shares advice and insights for recruits going through the college football recruiting process. He emphasizes the importance of patience and finding what you truly want out of the experience. The guest also highlights the need to take control of your own future and dedicate yourself to achieving your goals. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the level of commitment required to pursue a career in football.

    Takeaways

    • When choosing between Division 2, Division 3, and Junior College, athletes should consider factors such as scholarship offers, financial support, and long-term goals.
    • Junior College can be a valuable stepping stone for athletes looking to improve their skills and gain exposure before transferring to a four-year institution.
    • The recruitment process at Snow College focuses on finding athletes with potential and a strong work ethic, regardless of their current skill level.
    • Standout players from Snow College's recent recruiting class include Viliami Fifita, Damien Nelson, Mataira Brown, Daeqwan Snider, and Damien Otukolu. Be patient and find what you truly want out of the college football recruiting process.
    • Take control of your own future and handle the recruiting process with determination.
    • Seek out information and guidance to understand what it takes to play high-level football.
    • Dedicate yourself fully to your goals and be willing to make sacrifices.


    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction and Excitement
    02:03 High School Recruiting Experience
    05:26 Choosing Southern Utah University
    07:24 The Recruiting Process and Celebrating Signings
    09:13 Starting Late in the Recruiting Process
    10:38 Transitioning to College and Position Changes
    16:51 Coaching Career Begins at Juan Diego High School
    20:41 Moving to Snow College and Coaching Tight Ends
    25:57 Transitioning to Director of Football Operations
    29:14 Coaching at Utah State and Transitioning to Snow College
    36:48 Recruiting Differences at Different Levels
    40:12 Importance of Graphics in Recruiting
    45:21 Recruiting at the Junior College Level
    45:51 Choosing between D2, D3, and Junior College
    52:34 The Importance of Junior College in Player Development
    56:55 Recruiting and Evaluating Players at Snow College
    59:16 Viliami Fifita: Offensive Lineman from Skyridge High School
    01:02:34 Damien Nelson: Offe

    Find more great content to help you get recruited at www.recruitgrind.com 

    I get it, podcasts can be long at times. If you want to see some quick highlights from each episode as well as some great recruiting tips, follow us on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter (@therecruitgrind).

    And remember, don't stop GRINDING! 

    1 hr 35 min
  • Decoding All the 'Shirts' in College Sports

    Summary

    In this episode, Naki discusses the positive side of gray-shirting and the benefits it can offer in terms of development and preparation. He then explains the concept of red-shirting and the eligibility clock, highlighting the reasons for red-shirting and its advantages. Naki also clarifies the terminology used for different stages of redshirt years. Additionally, he covers other types of shirts, such as medical red-shirt, blue shirt, pink shirt, green shirt, and the COVID shirt. The episode concludes with Naki encouraging listeners to reach out for guidance and wishing them luck on signing day.

    Chapters

    00:00 - Introduction and Positive Side of Gray-Shirting
    03:40 - Red-Shirting and Eligibility Clock
    08:09 - Advantages of Red-Shirting
    09:35 - Understanding Redshirt Terminology
    12:02 - Other Types of Shirts: Medical Red-Shirt, Blue Shirt, Pink Shirt, Green Shirt, and COVID Shirt
    18:23 - Conclusion and Signing Day

    Find more great content to help you get recruited at www.recruitgrind.com 

    I get it, podcasts can be long at times. If you want to see some quick highlights from each episode as well as some great recruiting tips, follow us on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter (@therecruitgrind).

    And remember, don't stop GRINDING! 

    21 min
  • Advice For Walk-ons

    Summary

    This conversation discusses the experience of being a walk-on player in college football and provides advice for those considering this path. The conversation covers topics such as the recruitment process, the meaning of preferred walk-ons, changes in treatment for walk-ons, perks and support for walk-ons, earning a scholarship as a walk-on, and financial considerations for walk-ons. It also explores opportunities for walk-ons to make money through platforms like AthletesTV. The conversation emphasizes the importance of hard work, dedication, and taking advantage of available resources.

    Takeaways

    • Each recruiting experience is different, and it's important to focus on the opportunity to play where you want to play.
    • A preferred walk-on spot is essentially a walk-on spot with no extra perks.
    • The treatment for walk-ons has improved over the years, with many programs offering similar resources and support to scholarship players.
    • Earning a scholarship as a walk-on usually requires sticking with the program for a minimum of three years and demonstrating exceptional dedication and performance.
    • As a walk-on, it is crucial to excel academically, be the first one in and the last one out, and take advantage of all available resources.
    • Financial considerations can be challenging for walk-ons, but there are options such as financial aid, scholarships, and opportunities for making money through platforms like AthletesTV.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Background

    01:01 The Recruitment Process

    03:05 Understanding Preferred Walk-Ons

    04:24 Changes in Treatment for Walk-Ons

    06:13 Perks and Support for Walk-Ons

    07:38 Earning a Scholarship as a Walk-On

    08:25 Advice for Walk-Ons

    12:48 Financial Considerations for Walk-Ons

    13:38 Opportunities for Walk-Ons to Make Money

    15:49 Final Thoughts and Conclusion

    Find more great content to help you get recruited at www.recruitgrind.com 

    I get it, podcasts can be long at times. If you want to see some quick highlights from each episode as well as some great recruiting tips, follow us on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter (@therecruitgrind).

    And remember, don't stop GRINDING! 

    18 min
  • Transfer Portal? or Is The Grass Greener Where You Water It?

    Summary
    In this episode, Naki discusses the transfer portal and provides insights and advice for college athletes considering making a jump. He emphasizes the importance of playing time and having game film to showcase skills to potential coaches. Naki also highlights the significance of self-awareness, academic progress, and mental health in making transfer decisions. He advises athletes to research programs and contact coaches before entering the portal. Naki also explores the perspective of coaches and the challenges of molding transfer student-athletes. He concludes by reminding listeners that the grass is greener where you water it and shares research on transfer success rates.

    Takeaways

    • Having playing time and game film is crucial for college athletes considering transferring.
    • Self-awareness and taking responsibility for playing time are important factors to consider.
    • Academic progress and eligibility should be evaluated before making a transfer decision.
    • Researching programs and contacting coaches can provide valuable information and opportunities.
    • Mental health and passion for the sport should be considered when contemplating a transfer.
    • Coaches face challenges in molding transfer student-athletes.
    • The grass is greener where you water it, and transfer success rates vary.


    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction and the Importance of Being Educated on the Transfer Portal
    01:13 The Importance of Playing Time and Having Game Film
    03:03 The Rarity of Succeeding Without Game Film
    04:02 Self-Awareness and Taking Responsibility for Playing Time
    05:27 Considering Academics and Progress Towards Degree
    06:36 The Importance of Research and Contacting Coaches
    09:35 The Focus on Mental Health and State of Mind
    12:27 Reflecting on Personal Attitude and Habits
    17:05 Considering Scholarship Status and Financial Implications
    18:27 Evaluating Passion and Enjoyment for the Sport
    19:38 The Perspective of Coaches on Transfer Student-Athletes
    25:26 The Grass is Greener Where You Water It
    26:26 Research on Transfer Success Rates
    27:26 Conclusion and Invitation for Discussion

    Find more great content to help you get recruited at www.recruitgrind.com 

    I get it, podcasts can be long at times. If you want to see some quick highlights from each episode as well as some great recruiting tips, follow us on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter (@therecruitgrind).

    And remember, don't stop GRINDING! 

    29 min
  • So You Want to Be An Athlete? - A Brandin Bryant Story

    Summary
    The conversation covers the journey of a football player from Omaha, Nebraska, who overcame challenges and setbacks to pursue his dream of playing in the NFL. The chapters explore topics such as the football scene in Omaha, the importance of self-belief, the decision to attend a junior college, the transfer to FAU, highlights of the college career, transitioning to the NFL, and opportunities with the Seahawks and Jets. This conversation covers Funaki Asisi's journey through various football teams, including the Detroit Lions, CFL, Cleveland Browns, Buffalo Bills, Houston Texans, Miami Dolphins, and New York Giants. He also discusses his experience self-publishing a children's book and offers advice for recruits. In this conversation, Funaki Asisi discusses the importance of film study and having a clean social media presence for athletes. He emphasizes the need for athletes to not only showcase their highlights but also demonstrate their skills in different plays and situations. Funaki also highlights the significance of maintaining a professional image on social media, as college coaches often check athletes' profiles. Additionally, he shares his personal experience of sitting in recruiting meetings and witnessing how social media can impact a player's evaluation. The conversation concludes with Funaki encouraging listeners to learn from his story and navigate their own journeys more smoothly.

    Takeaways

    • Believing in yourself is crucial to achieving your goals.
    • Junior college can provide opportunities for players who may have been overlooked by larger programs.
    • Adversity and setbacks can be overcome with determination and a positive mindset.
    • The more versatile a player is, the more valuable they become in the NFL. Hard work and dedication are essential for success in football and in life.
    • Believe in yourself and your goals, even when others doubt you.
    • Academic success is just as important as athletic success.
    • Opportunities can arise unexpectedly, so always be prepared.
    • Self-publishing can be a viable option for sharing your story or ideas. Athletes should focus on film study and showcase their skills in various plays and situations.
    • Maintaining a clean and professional social media presence is crucial for athletes.
    • College coaches often check athletes' social media profiles during the recruiting process.
    • Learning from personal mistakes and overcoming adversity can lead to a smoother journey in sports.


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Background
    02:15 Football in Omaha, Nebraska
    05:12 Believing in Yourself
    08:25 Choosing the JUCO Route
    09:48 Transferring to FAU
    15:30 Highlights at FAU
    27:16 Transitioning to the NFL
    31:06 Opportunities with the Seahawks and Jets
    42:55 The Hardest Workout with the Detroit Lions
    47:13 Choosing the CFL over the NFL
    51:28 Joining the Cleveland Browns
    54:14 Transition to the Buffalo Bills
    58:20 Signing with the Houston Texans
    01:03:07 Training Camp with the Miami Dolphins
    01:06:26 Playing for the Buffalo Bills Again
    01:10:20 Transition to the New York Giants
    01:19:22 Writing a Children's Book
    01:21:15 Self-Publishing the Book
    01:23:04 Advice for Recruits
    01:24:32 Importance of Film Study and Social Media Presence
    01:26:28 Creating a Personal Brand on Social Media
    01:27:25 Overcoming Adversity and Learning from Mistakes

    Go to Amazon and Buy Brandin's book TODAY!: https://amzn.to/3RWNRfq

    Find more great content to help you get recruited at www.recruitgrind.com 

    I get it, podcasts can be long at times. If you want to see some quick highlights from each episode as well as some great recruiting tips, follow us on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter (@therecruitgrind).

    And remember, don't stop GRINDING! 

    1 hr 29 min
  • NIL Deals and Taxes: What Every Student Athlete Must Know

    Summary

    In this conversation, Funaki Asisi interviews his mother, June Asisi, who is a tax consultant. They discuss the importance of taxes for student athletes, particularly in the context of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals. June explains that any income over $600 is taxable and advises student athletes to request a 1099 form from businesses they work with. She also highlights the benefits of creating a business entity, such as an S-Corp, and the importance of reporting all income to avoid tax fraud. June emphasizes the need for financial education for student athletes and the shortcomings of the education system in teaching life skills.

    Takeaways

    Student athletes should be aware that any income over $600 is taxable and should request a 1099 form from businesses they work with. Creating a business entity, such as an S-Corp, can provide tax benefits for student athletes. It is important to report all income and expenses accurately to avoid tax fraud. Financial education is crucial for student athletes, as the education system often fails to teach important life skills, including taxes. Foreign student athletes may have different tax considerations and should seek guidance from tax professionals. Transferring schools can have tax implications, as student athletes may need to pay taxes in multiple states.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and the Importance of Taxes
    03:00 Recruiting Process and Tax Considerations
    10:08 Handling NIL Deals from a Tax Perspective
    18:27 Reporting Income and Tax Requirements
    20:43 Filling Out a 1099 and Understanding Write-Offs
    25:11 Creating a Business Entity and Tax Benefits
    27:30 Avoiding Tax Fraud and Seeking Help
    35:29 Importance of Financial Education for Student Athletes
    38:19 The Need for Life Skills Education
    41:14 Tax Considerations for Foreign Student Athletes
    43:34 Tax Implications of Transferring Schools
    45:00 Closing Remarks and Gratitude

    Find more great content to help you get recruited at www.recruitgrind.com 

    I get it, podcasts can be long at times. If you want to see some quick highlights from each episode as well as some great recruiting tips, follow us on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter (@therecruitgrind).

    And remember, don't stop GRINDING! 

    48 min

About The Recruit Grind

From the publisher's feed

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