College recruiting is more complex than ever — and most families are starting with the wrong information. In this special two-day School Talks radio feature on WJR 760 AM Detroit (aired February 14–15), host Dr. Robert Livernois sits down with recruiting expert Matt Rogers of CoachMattRogers.com to break down the realities of the modern college athletics journey. Coach Matt’s section begins at the 12:50 mark of the podcast.
Drawing from 15+ years of experience working with more than 7,000 families, Matt addresses the biggest misconceptions about recruiting — including scholarship myths, the truth about Division III opportunities, and why cost assumptions about public vs. private schools often lead families in the wrong direction.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
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When student-athletes should start the recruiting process (and why sophomore year matters)
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The first steps every family should take, including research, self-assessment, and weekly coach communication
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How to realistically evaluate your athlete’s level by watching D1, D2, D3, NAIA, and JUCO competition live
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The three traits that separate athletes who successfully transition to college sports
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Why coaches want to hear directly from the athlete — not the parents
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How families can support their athlete without adding pressure or unrealistic expectations
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Healthy ways to build confidence through competition, resilience, and a “control what you can control” mindset
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Best practices for social media in recruiting — and what college coaches actually look for
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Why successful recruits communicate with 50–100 college programs to learn their true value
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How to navigate today’s landscape of NIL and the Transfer Portal with perspective and purpose
Matt also explains the philosophy behind his book, Significant Recruiting: The Playbook for Prospective College Athletes, and the companion Recruit’s Journals — designed to help families take ownership of the process, build confidence, and make informed decisions based on fit, development, and long-term success.
Whether your child dreams of playing Division I or simply wants the right college experience, this conversation provides practical, honest guidance to help families focus on what matters most: finding a place where the athlete can grow, contribute, and become the best version of themselves.
For more resources — including books, sport-specific Recruit’s Journals, weekly blogs, podcasts, recruiting courses, and free family strategy sessions — visit CoachMattRogers.com.
Keywords: college recruiting podcast, high school athlete recruiting, NCAA recruiting advice, NIL and transfer portal, recruiting tips for parents, student-athlete recruiting strategy, college sports scholarships, Division I II III recruiting, NAIA recruiting, youth sports recruiting guidance, Coach Matt Rogers, School Talks WJR.
