The Player Development Pod presented by Beyond the Field

Alumni relations isn't broken but it is changing.In this episode, I close out the 12 Days of Player Development by tackling alumni relations in a portal-happy world. With athletes transferring more than ever, programs are being forced to rethink alumni identity, engagement, and connection.You'll hear:Why alumni relations still matter deeplyHow to define alumni in today's landscapeThe importance of short-term but intentional engagementWhat current players must commit toHow to support graduates immediately after they leaveThis episode is for player development professionals, athlete engagement staff, coaches, and administrators navigating the new reality of college sports.BOOK - Get YOUR copy of the Beyond The Field Player Development Guide: https://amzn.to/3TtnaA8 2026 Player Development Summit - https://www.btfprogram.com/pdsummit2026 Player Development Summit Sponsorship - https://forms.gle/vPucKVKaZmTVcLDq9Player Development Newsletter → https://substack.com/@btfprogram

Player development can transform your program. Period.In Day 11 of the 12 Days of Player Development, I break down 8 specific ways player development improves culture, leadership, communication, alignment, and sustainability in sports organizations.This episode is for:Coaches feeling stretched thinAthletic directors seeking long-term stabilityPrograms tired of constant distractions and turnoverWe cover:Culture and accountabilityPlayer-led leadershipReducing noise and dramaContinuity through changeCoach burnout preventionBetter information flowWhole-building alignmentIf you want a program that develops people and elevates performance, this episode is for you.BOOK - Get YOUR copy of the Beyond The Field Player Development Guide: https://amzn.to/3TtnaA8 2026 Player Development Summit - https://www.btfprogram.com/pdsummit2026 Player Development Summit Sponsorship - https://forms.gle/vPucKVKaZmTVcLDq9Player Development Newsletter → https://substack.com/@btfprogram

Most sports management students graduate without ever hearing about player development. That is a problem.In this episode, I explain:Why player development is missing from most curriculaWhat the role truly looks like day to dayWho should pursue it and who should notThe challenges behind the scenesWhy this role is growing faster than everI also share why I wrote The Player Development Guide and how it serves as a blueprint for students, professionals, and departments preparing for the future of sports.If you care about people more than titles and impact more than credit, this episode is for you.

International athletes are changing the landscape of college and professional sports.In this episode of the Player Development Pod, I dive into international athlete development and the skills international student athletes gain through intentional player development.You will learn:Why development must start with the athlete's future goalsHow shared belonging increases engagement and trustWhy communication and feedback are non negotiableWhat international athlete growth means for the future of sportI also reflect on seeing Chu Godrick take the field with the Kansas City Chiefs and why moments like that reinforce the importance of development beyond the field.BOOK - Get YOUR copy of the Beyond The Field Player Development Guide: https://amzn.to/3TtnaA8 2026 Player Development Summit - https://www.btfprogram.com/pdsummit2026 Player Development Summit Sponsorship - https://forms.gle/vPucKVKaZmTVcLDq9Player Development Newsletter → https://substack.com/@btfprogram

If you are an assistant in player development and your goal is to become a Director, this episode will give you clarity on what actually matters.In Day 8 of the 12 Days of Player Development, I walk through what I would focus on if I wanted to go from assistant to director in one year.This is not about rushing the process.It is about preparing for the responsibility that comes with leadership.We talk about:Why being inside the building is your biggest advantageHow mastering your role creates leverage and trustWhat assistants need to understand about organizational structureHow mentorship accelerates readinessWhy thinking like a director before you become one mattersIf you are serious about developing people and elevating programs, this conversation will help you evaluate where you are and what to do next.BOOK - Get YOUR copy of the Beyond The Field Player Development Guide: https://amzn.to/3TtnaA8 2026 Player Development Summit - https://www.btfprogram.com/pdsummit2026 Player Development Summit Sponsorship - https://forms.gle/vPucKVKaZmTVcLDq9Player Development Newsletter → https://substack.com/@btfprogram

Alignment is one of the most overlooked responsibilities in player development.In this episode of the 12 Days of Player Development, Edward Jones II breaks down how alignment through communication shapes the athlete experience across an entire program.With so many departments influencing athletes, misalignment can quietly derail culture, trust, and effectiveness. This episode introduces a simple but powerful framework to keep everyone moving in the same direction.In this episode, you will learn:What alignment actually looks like in player developmentWhy connection is the foundation of trustHow to communicate strategically with internal and external stakeholdersWhy collaboration turns departments into teammatesA real story that shows how collaboration creates buy-inWhether you work in college athletics, high school sports, professional sports, or are preparing for a player development role, this episode will help you lead with clarity and intention.BOOK - Get YOUR copy of the Beyond The Field Player Development Guide: https://amzn.to/3TtnaA8 2026 Player Development Summit - https://www.btfprogram.com/pdsummit2026 Player Development Summit Sponsorship - https://forms.gle/vPucKVKaZmTVcLDq9Player Development Newsletter → https://substack.com/@btfprogram

Most coaches and player development professionals have asked this question:“How are you doing?”And most of the time, the answer is the same:“I'm good.”In this episode, I break down 11 simple questions that unlock real, meaningful conversations with athletes and help you move beyond surface-level check-ins.Drawing from my experience as a Director of Player Development at the University of Houston, the University of Kansas, and Baylor University, I share the exact questions I used to build trust, encourage reflection, and guide athletes toward growth.You'll also learn the Present → Past → Future question framework, a simple approach that helps athletes:Open up emotionally in the momentReflect on experiences and build identitySet goals, take accountability, and create visionWhether you're a coach, player development professional, administrator, or someone who works closely with athletes, this episode gives you practical tools you can use immediately.Why “How are you?” often shuts conversations downHow to ask better questions that athletes actually answer11 questions that build trust and accountabilityHow to use follow-up questions to keep conversations goingHow intentional conversations create long-term impactIn This Episode, You'll Learn:Why “How are you?” often shuts conversations downHow to ask better questions that athletes actually answer11 questions that build trust and accountabilityHow to use follow-up questions to keep conversations goingHow intentional conversations create long-term impactBOOK - Get YOUR copy of the Beyond The Field Player Development Guide: https://amzn.to/3TtnaA8 2026 Player Development Summit - https://www.btfprogram.com/pdsummit2026 Player Development Summit Sponsorship - https://forms.gle/vPucKVKaZmTVcLDq9Player Development Newsletter → https://substack.com/@btfprogram

It's Day 5 of the 12 Days of Player Development.One of the biggest challenges in player development is getting athletes to show up to programming when it is not mandatory. This episode answers a real question from Jessie Martinez, who works with high school athletes at IMG and attended the 2025 Player Development Summit.Ed breaks down how he approached non mandatory programming at the collegiate level and shares practical strategies that consistently increased attendance without forcing buy in.In this episode, you will learn:• Why programming fails when it is built around staff priorities instead of athlete needs• How to use language and framing to increase attendance• Why food, timing, and perceived value matter• How to involve coaches so attendance becomes cultural• Why focusing on the middle group of athletes matters more than chasing everyone• How parents and former players can support engagementThis episode is especially helpful for player development professionals, coaches, administrators, and anyone responsible for off the field programming.This is part of the 12 Days of Player Development series, where Ed answers real questions with real experience.As always, go create generational impact. Don't wait. Create it today.

Day 4 of the 12 Days of Player Development focuses on how to effectively use data for intentional programming.In this episode, Ed shares a real example from his time at the University of Houston where simple, player driven data led to one of the most successful career development programs he has ever implemented.Instead of relying on complex analytics or overbuilt systems, Ed explains how understanding player behavior, listening to what athletes actually want, and using practical data points can drive real engagement and impact.This episode covers:Why most player surveys failHow to collect meaningful data without overcomplicating itHow to turn player input into high impact programmingWhy data should guide decisions, not replace judgmentIf you work in player development, athlete engagement, or leadership, this episode will help you rethink how you use data to serve athletes better.

Day 3 of the 12 Days of Player DevelopmentCan player development actually help teams win games?In this episode, Ed Jones II breaks down 8 clear and practical ways player development directly impacts on-field success. This is not theory. These are real systems, behaviors, and habits Ed implemented while working in college football at Houston, Kansas, and Baylor, including during a Big 12 Championship season.You will learn how mindset, responsibility, leadership, mentorship, communication, effort, learning, and critical thinking all translate from off-the-field development into better execution, better decision-making, and better performance when it matters most.This episode is especially valuable for:Coaches who want an edge beyond scheme and strategyAdministrators evaluating the role of player developmentPlayer development professionals looking for language that resonates with coachesAnyone who believes winning starts with peoplePlayer development is not extra.It is an advantage.Listen in, take notes, and share this episode with someone who still thinks off-the-field work does not impact on-field results.As always, create generational impact and win on and off the field.BOOK - Get YOUR copy of the Beyond The Field Player Development Guide: https://amzn.to/3TtnaA8 2026 Player Development Summit - https://www.btfprogram.com/pdsummit2026 Player Development Summit Sponsorship - https://forms.gle/vPucKVKaZmTVcLDq9Player Development Newsletter → https://substack.com/@btfprogram

It's Day 2 of the 12 Days of Player Development.In this episode, Ed Jones II speaks directly to coaches who do not have a Player Development Lead and explains why this role is no longer optional in today's athletic programs.Drawing from his experience in player development at the University of Houston, the University of Kansas, and Baylor University, Ed breaks down what a Player Development Lead actually does and how this role supports coaches, strengthens culture, develops players beyond sport, and reconnects alumni to the program.In this episode, you will learn:How a Player Development Lead gives coaches their time backWhy culture strengthens when people feel seenHow intentional and holistic programming helps players grow into the adults coaches say they want them to beWhy alumni and former player engagement matters more than most programs realizeEd also shares his definition of player development and explains why having one person singularly leading these efforts creates clarity, consistency, and long-term impact.If you are a coach carrying parent communication, culture, alumni engagement, player issues, and everything else on your plate, this episode will help you understand why player development changes everything.BOOK - Get YOUR copy of the Beyond The Field Player Development Guide: https://amzn.to/3TtnaA8 2026 Player Development Summit - https://www.btfprogram.com/pdsummit2026 Player Development Summit Sponsorship - https://forms.gle/vPucKVKaZmTVcLDq9Player Development Newsletter → https://substack.com/@btfprogram

Welcome to Day One of the 12 Days of Player Development.Over the next 12 days, I will be breaking down real world player development topics that impact athletes, coaches, staff, and programs at every level. Each episode focuses on an area of player development that often goes overlooked but plays a major role in long term success.In this episode, I walk through five warning signs your program needs player development. These are not small issues. They are signals that show up when programs are stretched, misaligned, or missing intentional support systems.We cover:Cultural instability and why it happensAcademic red flags and accountability gapsDisconnected former players and alumni breakdownsThe absence of transition planning for athletes after sportStaff overload and why coaches cannot do everythingIf you are a coach, administrator, or professional responsible for developing people, this episode is for you.Make sure you check back daily during the 12 Days of Player Development for new episodes, videos, and insights.As always, go create generational impact.BOOK - Get YOUR copy of the Beyond The Field Player Development Guide: https://amzn.to/3TtnaA8 2026 Player Development Summit - https://www.btfprogram.com/pdsummit2026 Player Development Summit Sponsorship - https://forms.gle/vPucKVKaZmTVcLDq9Player Development Newsletter → https://substack.com/@btfprogram

Ed shares lessons learned from his own interview experiences across multiple universities, explains what coaches and administrators are really listening for, and teaches you how to prepare the right way without giving away your entire playbook.• Why listening is the hidden advantageHow to listen beyond coach speak and recognize the mission, expectations, and values being communicated publicly long before your interview.• How to research like a professionalThe exact research process that separates amateurs from serious candidates, including the role, the coach, the university, the conference, the city, and the student athlete development structure.• How to plan without oversharingWhy you should never give away your full plan, how to offer surface level solutions that show strategic thinking, and how to identify pain points that help you stand out.Ed also shares a story about how missing a key research detail once cost him a Chief of Staff opportunity and why preparation and precision matter more than ever in today's coaching landscape.Whether you are actively interviewing or preparing for the future, this episode will help you walk into your next opportunity with confidence, clarity, and purpose.In this episode, you will learn:• Why listening is the hidden advantageHow to listen beyond coach speak and recognize the mission, expectations, and values being communicated publicly long before your interview.• How to research like a professionalThe exact research process that separates amateurs from serious candidates, including the role, the coach, the university, the conference, the city, and the student athlete development structure.• How to plan without oversharingWhy you should never give away your full plan, how to offer surface level solutions that show strategic thinking, and how to identify pain points that help you stand out.Ed also shares a story about how missing a key research detail once cost him a Chief of Staff opportunity and why preparation and precision matter more than ever in today's coaching landscape.Whether you are actively interviewing or preparing for the future, this episode will help you walk into your next opportunity with confidence, clarity, and purpose.BOOK - Get YOUR copy of the Beyond The Field Player Development Guide: https://amzn.to/3TtnaA8 2026 Player Development Summit - https://www.btfprogram.com/pdsummit2026 Player Development Summit Sponsorship - https://forms.gle/vPucKVKaZmTVcLDq9Player Development Newsletter → https://substack.com/@btfprogram

In this episode, I walk you through the five player development interviews I had at three different universities and the lessons each one taught me. From getting unexpectedly interviewed in my high school office by Tom Herman, to breaking down my entire job on the spot for Todd Orlando, to being moved back into my true lane by Major Applewhite, to gaining creative freedom with Les Miles, to navigating misalignment at Baylor, every interview shaped my understanding of this profession.If you work in player development, want to break into the role, or are trying to figure out your next career move, this episode will give you a behind the scenes look at what these interviews are really like, what coaches pay attention to, and the biggest lessons I learned along the way.BOOK - Get YOUR copy of the Beyond The Field Player Development Guide: https://amzn.to/3TtnaA8 2026 Player Development Summit - https://www.btfprogram.com/pdsummit2026 Player Development Summit Sponsorship - https://forms.gle/vPucKVKaZmTVcLDq9Player Development Newsletter → https://substack.com/@btfprogram

Coaching transitions are one of the most stressful periods inside any football program. The public sees rumors, headlines, job openings, and contract numbers. But inside the building, coaches are dealing with real pressure. Contract insecurity. Family stress. Social media noise. Expectations from fans and boosters. And the emotional weight of knowing their future can change overnight.In this episode, I break down what coaching staffs actually go through during transition seasons and how player development professionals can support them in meaningful and impactful ways.You'll learn:• Why coaching pressure is far deeper than wins and losses• How contract insecurity affects entire families• The role social media plays in increasing staff anxiety• How unrealistic expectations create internal tension• What player development can do to stabilize the building• The four most important ways to support coaches during uncertainty• How communication, reminders, heads up moments, and encouragement build trust• Why supporting coaches' families strengthens the entire program• Real stories from my time at multiple universities navigating transitionsWhether your coach is on the hot seat, being recruited by other programs, or your building is full of rumors, this episode gives you the real, unfiltered look at how to be a stabilizing force when everything feels unsteady.If you work in player development or athlete development, this is an episode you'll want to replay and take notes from.BOOK - Get YOUR copy of the Beyond The Field Player Development Guide: https://amzn.to/3TtnaA8 2026 Player Development Summit - https://www.btfprogram.com/pdsummit2026 Player Development Summit Sponsorship - https://forms.gle/vPucKVKaZmTVcLDq9Player Development Newsletter → https://substack.com/@btfprogram

The coaching carousel is spinning again, and today we are breaking down a part of college football that most people never see. When a head coach gets hired, there is a clear order in how the staff is built. After working at Houston, Kansas, and Baylor, I have lived this process in real time.In this episode, I walk you through the actual hiring sequence that takes place behind the scenes. From the front office to operations to strength staff to coordinators to position coaches and finally the support staff and player development roles, there is a rhythm to this process that matters for your timing, your strategy, and your career decisions.If you work in player development, recruiting, operations, or you are trying to break into the profession, this episode gives you the insight you need to understand what is really happening when a new coach takes over a program.In this episode you will learn:• Why the front office is always hired first in the revenue sharing era• Why operations sets the foundation for the entire program• The role the strength staff plays during winter training and culture building• When coordinators are hired and why they shape the identity of the team• Why position coaches come next once the salary pool is set• When the final wave of support staff and player development roles actually happens• How to time your outreach during coaching transitions so you are not too early or too lateThis is a must listen if you want to understand the backstage mechanics of staff building in college athletics. The better you understand the hiring order, the better you can navigate your own opportunities.-BOOK - Get YOUR copy of the Beyond The Field Player Development Guide: https://amzn.to/3TtnaA8 2026 Player Development Summit - https://www.btfprogram.com/pdsummit2026 Player Development Summit Sponsorship - https://forms.gle/vPucKVKaZmTVcLDq9Player Development Newsletter → https://substack.com/@btfprogram

n this mega episode of The Player Development Pod, Ed Jones breaks down the full reality of the coaching carousel. You will hear the truth about firings, transitions, uncertainty, and what it looks like when the entire industry starts moving all at once.Ed shares insider lessons from his time in player development at Houston, Kansas, and Baylor, including:• How staff members experience the emotional highs and lows when coaches are hired or fired• The pressure and instability families and support staff face behind the scenes• How to support coaches during chaotic transition windows• The three survival rules every player development professional must know• The real hiring order when a new coach takes over a program• Ed's personal interviews at three different universities and the lessons each one taught him• How to navigate being retained, being reassigned, or being let go• A bonus section with three key tips for anyone interviewing in player developmentIf you have ever wondered what really happens during coach firings, buyouts, and full staff shakeups, this episode lays it all out with honesty and lived experience.Stay tuned for information about the 2026 Player Development Summit in Detroit, and do not forget to grab your copy of The Player Development Guide on Amazon.This is the most comprehensive look at the coaching carousel you will find anywhere. Tune in and level up.-BOOK - Get YOUR copy of the Beyond The Field Player Development Guide: https://amzn.to/3TtnaA8 2026 Player Development Summit - https://www.btfprogram.com/pdsummit2026 Player Development Summit Sponsorship - https://forms.gle/vPucKVKaZmTVcLDq9Player Development Newsletter → https://substack.com/@btfprogram

In today's episode of the Player Development Pod, I take you inside one of the wildest seasons of my career: the year I worked for college football's most wanted head coach, Tom Herman, at the University of Houston.You've heard me talk about coaching hot seats.But what happens when your coach is the opposite… the coach every major program wants?I pull back the curtain on what it's really like when your head coach shows up on every shortlist, every rumor thread, every message board, and every “next job” report for an entire season. From beating Oklahoma in the opener to navigating constant speculation, recruiting chaos, shifting staff dynamics, and the emotional toll it took on players and parents… this was a year unlike any other.You will hear:• What it feels like working inside a program when your coach is the most sought-after name in the country• How rumors affect trust, culture, recruiting, and team focus• The moment the “breaking news” hit the screen at our Thanksgiving team dinner• What players really felt when the move became real• Why I wish I had told Coach Herman I wanted to follow him• Lessons every player development professional should know when their coach becomes a targetThen I break down the five practical steps to stabilize and support your team through distraction, uncertainty, or transition so your players stay locked in and finish strong.If you work in player development, recruiting, operations, or support, and your coach is on every “next job” list… this episode gives you the strategies and perspective you need right now.Developing People. Elevating Programs.BOOK - Get YOUR copy of the Beyond The Field Player Development Guide: https://amzn.to/3TtnaA8 2026 Player Development Summit - https://www.btfprogram.com/pdsummit2026 Player Development Summit Sponsorship - https://forms.gle/vPucKVKaZmTVcLDq9Player Development Newsletter → https://substack.com/@btfprogram

What do you do when your head coach is on the hot seat and the entire building feels it?In this episode, Ed Jones II takes you inside the real pressure of a hot seat season in college football. Using his experience from the 2018 University of Houston season, he shares what it is actually like to work in player development or support staff when the rumors start, the tension grows, and everyone in the building is trying to figure out what their future looks like.This is not the version fans see online.This is the version people inside the building live through.Ed walks through the emotional weight, the financial uncertainty, the shifting relationships, and the quiet panic that staff members deal with when their job security is tied to a decision they cannot control. He shares how players respond, how families react, and how he personally prepared for the possibility of being let go even while still trying to serve the athletes he cared about.You will hear:• What it feels like when your building changes overnight• The role Football Scoop, rumors, and buyout dates play in the tension• How players experience fear, confusion, and frustration during a hot seat year• Why support staff often carry the heaviest financial impact• What player development must do to stabilize the locker room• The behind the scenes realities that never make headlines• The exact steps Ed took to protect his family and stay present for his athletesThis episode is for anyone in player development, coaching, support staff, administration, or anyone who wants to understand the real human side of college football.It is honest.It is vulnerable.It is real.And it might prepare you for a moment you did not expect.BOOK - Get YOUR copy of the Beyond The Field Player Development Guide: https://amzn.to/3TtnaA8 2026 Player Development Summit - https://www.btfprogram.com/pdsummit2026 Player Development Summit Sponsorship - https://forms.gle/vPucKVKaZmTVcLDq9Player Development Newsletter → https://substack.com/@btfprogram

After three straight years of weekly episodes and months of producing multiple episodes every week, the Player Development Pod finally took a much needed break. Today, we are officially back and ready to bring even more clarity, direction, and support to everyone serving in the player development space.In this comeback episode, Ed Jones II shares why the reset mattered, what changed during the break, and what you can expect from this new season of the show. From deeper dives into real player development scenarios, to international conversations, to behind the scenes insight on the 2026 Player Development Summit in Detroit, this season will be the most impactful yet.If you work with athletes, lead a program, or want to grow in the player development field, this episode sets the tone for everything coming next.In this episode:• Why the break was necessary• Lessons learned from stepping away• What to expect in this new season• Upcoming series on coaching transitions• Why support staff face a different reality than head coaches• The return of guests and international voices• Behind the scenes of the 2026 Summit• How to tap into all the new content and resourcesBOOK - Get YOUR copy of the Beyond The Field Player Development Guide: https://amzn.to/3TtnaA8 2026 Player Development Summit - https://www.btfprogram.com/pdsummit2026 Player Development Summit Sponsorship - https://forms.gle/vPucKVKaZmTVcLDq9Player Development Newsletter → https://substack.com/@btfprogram

When Jessica Gray finished her panel at the 2025 Player Development Summit, she turned to me and said, “We need this in Detroit.” That single moment sparked the movement that led to the 2026 Player Development Summit being hosted in the Motor City.In this episode, Keionna Banks sat down with Jessica Gray, the Senior Director of Player Engagement for the Detroit Lions, to unpack what it truly means to develop humans first. Jessica shares her leadership philosophy built on empathy, accountability, and authenticity. She opens up about the boundaries that protect her energy, the lessons that shaped her approach, and how she continues to build programs that transform lives beyond the field.From the Lions' Rookie Readiness Program to her candle business that fills her creative cup, Jessica's story is proof that purpose and balance can coexist in leadership. She reminds us that you don't need to be perfect to have impact, you just need to be present, intentional, and honest with yourself.If you're passionate about player development, leadership, or building systems that care for the person behind the athlete, this conversation will inspire you to think beyond the title, beyond the moment, and beyond the field.The Player Development Guide → https://amzn.to/3TtnaA8Player Development Accelerator Assessment → https://edward-jones-po11g9mt.scoreapp.comIs Your Program Player Development READY? → https://edward-jones-0amn1dyi.scoreapp.comPlayer Development Newsletter → https://substack.com/@btfprogram100 Tips of Player Development → https://beyond-the-field-player-development.kit.com/09c6129dc1Player Development 101 → https://beyond-the-field-player-development.kit.com/pd101

In this special episode, I am announcing the location of the 2026 Player Development Summit, and it is official. We are headed to Detroit, Michigan.Before revealing the city, I take a moment to thank everyone who helped make the 2025 Player Development Summit in Kansas City such an incredible success. From the Brain Tank and volunteers to the speakers, sponsors, and attendees, you made history by helping us host our first in-person Summit.In this episode, I share the full story behind the 2026 decision. We looked at four finalist cities: Atlanta, Houston, Las Vegas, and Detroit. Each city had its strengths, but Detroit stood out for its grit, pride, and resilience. These are the same values that define player development.You will hear why Detroit is the perfect city to host the next Summit, how it aligns with the Beyond The Field mission of Developing People and Elevating Programs, and what is next for this growing movement.I also talk about how you can get involved as a sponsor, speaker, or attendee and why the 2026 event is set to be bigger than ever.

We sat down with Dr. Melissa Weinsz right after her session at the 2025 Player Development Zone in Kansas City. As the Director of Player Engagement for the Kansas City Chiefs, Dr. Weinsz is not only a local leader but also one of only a handful of women in the NFL to hold this role.In our conversation, Dr. Weinsz opens up about her journey from Ohio to Florida, LSU, and now Kansas City. She shares how she has helped reshape programs, guided NIL strategy when it was brand new, and restructured athlete development initiatives.Here's what you'll hear in this episode:Why being a woman in this space is a superpowerHow Dr. Weinsz finds balance and wellness through community, CrossFit, and faithThe importance of trust, confidentiality, and “being quick to love but slow to share”Why player engagement requires both nurturing instincts and strong professional presenceWhat Beyond the Field means to her personally and why she believes it is the premier platform for this workDr. Weinsz reminds us that leadership is not always about being the loudest voice in the room. Sometimes it is the quiet strength and authenticity that changes lives.If you are a current or aspiring player development professional, or simply someone navigating leadership in challenging spaces, this episode will leave you with practical wisdom and renewed encouragement.

Transitions are part of every journey—whether you're graduating, changing jobs, or facing unexpected challenges. In this episode of The Player Development Pod, Dr. Jamil Northcutt, Deputy Director at Athletes.org and CEO of Strategic Transitions Advisors, shares powerful insights from the Beyond the Field Summit on how to navigate change with clarity and confidence.We dive into:Why building hedges (boundaries) protects your health, relationships, and financesHow core values reduce stress and guide your decisionsWhy cultivating competence in new areas helps you thrive in transitionThe importance of perseverance and not giving up when life gets toughDr. Northcutt reminds us that life moves in seasons, and even in difficult moments, change may be working in your favor.

After three years of nonstop content — over 200 episodes, nearly 100 hours of conversations, and a growing community that just crossed 1,000 subscribers — it's time for a pause.In this episode, I share why I'm taking a strategic break from the Player Development Pod. This is not the end. It's a chance to step back, reset, and prepare for the next level of growth.You'll hear:The real reason I need this pauseHow I'm preparing Beyond the Field for what's nextWhy the systems that got us here won't get us to the futureWays you can stay connected during the break (book, newsletter, assessments, email)What you can expect when I return refreshed and readyThis break is about more than rest — it's about building the structure that allows Beyond the Field to scale, serve athletic departments, and make the Player Development Summit bigger than ever.Thank you for your support and trust. This is just a pause, not the end. When I come back, I'll be ready to serve you and your programs on an even greater level.Developing People. Elevating Programs.-The Player Development Guide → https://amzn.to/3TtnaA8Player Development Accelerator Assessment → https://edward-jones-po11g9mt.scoreapp.comIs Your Program Player Development READY? → https://edward-jones-0amn1dyi.scoreapp.comPlayer Development Newsletter → https://substack.com/@btfprogram100 Tips of Player Development → https://beyond-the-field-player-development.kit.com/09c6129dc1Player Development 101 → https://beyond-the-field-player-development.kit.com/pd101

College athletics feels more transactional than ever — transfers, NIL deals, and short stints define the current landscape. But here's the truth: you can still be transformational, even if you only have athletes for a short period of time.In this episode, I break down the three questions every player development professional, coach, or leader must help their athletes answer:Who am I as a person? (Identity beyond sport)Who am I as a leader? (The impact I want to have)What are my personal and professional interests? (Dreams that last after the final whistle)These questions may seem simple, but if you guide athletes through them, even six months in your program will leave a lifelong imprint.We'll talk about practical ways to build initiatives, conversations, and programming around these questions — and how you can stay transformational in a transactional era.

In this episode of The Player Development Pod, we sit down with Dr. Lacee' Carmon-Johnson, Director of Basketball Advancement for the Toronto Raptors, to talk about the future of athlete development in the NBA and beyond.Dr. Carmon-Johnson brings a wealth of experience as a former NCAA athlete, educator, career strategist, and mother of three. With her PhD in Educational Administration, she has built a reputation for designing customized programs that go deeper than basketball, helping players develop life skills, career readiness, and personal identity that lasts long after the final buzzer.In this conversation, we cover:Why holistic health and wellness are essential for athletes in a high-performance worldHow vulnerability and transparency open doors to authentic relationships with playersWhy “programs in a box” don't work and how customization creates lasting impactLessons from motherhood that have shaped her leadership with NBA athletesWhat “Beyond the Field” really means for players, professionals, and anyone building a life beyond their titleHer powerful reminder: The ball will only bounce for so long. Who will you be when it stops?This episode is a must-listen for coaches, administrators, and development professionals who want to prepare athletes not just to win in sport, but to win in life.

Every athletic program needs speakers — but not every speaker is the right fit. The wrong choice can cost thousands of dollars and leave your players uninspired. The right choice can transform the room, energize your athletes, and strengthen your culture.In this episode of The Player Development Pod, Ed Jones II — founder of Beyond the Field and author of The Player Development Guide — shares lessons learned from his time in player development at the University of Houston, Kansas, and Baylor. You'll hear real stories of speakers who landed with power, and others who completely missed the mark.We break down:The 3 questions to ask before booking any speakerWhy video proof and testimonials matter more than social media followersHow to evaluate a speaker's true lane of expertiseThe underrated way to protect your credibility with coaches and staffWhy intentional speaker selection builds long-term trust in your roleIf you're a coach, administrator, or player development professional, this episode will give you a practical framework for finding the right voices to inspire your athletes.

What happens when you transition from player development, where you work directly for a head coach, to student athlete development, where you serve the entire athletic department? The dynamics change, the expectations shift, and the role requires a new mindset.In this episode, I share the 9 critical questions I would ask every head coach before stepping into student athlete development. These questions cover personal wellness, community impact, career development, academics, recruiting, game day expectations, programming, alumni engagement, and access to the team.Instead of assuming, listening first opens doors, builds trust, and uncovers resources that strengthen both the coach and the athlete experience.Whether you are a player development professional, athletic administrator, or coach looking to better understand the role, this conversation gives you a clear roadmap to succeed in student athlete development.Tune in, take notes, and use these 9 questions to guide your next step in serving athletes.-The Player Development Guide → https://amzn.to/3TtnaA8Player Development Accelerator Assessment → https://edward-jones-po11g9mt.scoreapp.comIs Your Program Player Development READY? → https://edward-jones-0amn1dyi.scoreapp.comPlayer Development Newsletter → https://substack.com/@btfprogram100 Tips of Player Development → https://beyond-the-field-player-development.kit.com/09c6129dc1Player Development 101 → https://beyond-the-field-player-development.kit.com/pd101

One of the most common questions I get is about programming—what it looks like, how to structure it, and what actually makes it effective.In this episode, I break down the 3-Part Programming Framework I've used across youth sports, high school, college, and the pro level to create intentional, impactful programming athletes don't just attend—they remember.You'll discover:Why starting with a Talk brings clarity and sets the toneHow bringing in a Guest Speaker provides the outside expertise athletes needWhy ending with an Activity makes the program practical and actionableI even share an example from Duke Football's Leadership Week, where athletes capped off the experience with a trip to Epic Games—the creators of Fortnite—for real-world career discovery.If you've ever struggled to make your programming stick, this episode will give you a proven framework you can plug in right away.-The Player Development Guide → https://amzn.to/3TtnaA8Player Development Accelerator Assessment → https://edward-jones-po11g9mt.scoreapp.comIs Your Program Player Development READY? → https://edward-jones-0amn1dyi.scoreapp.comPlayer Development Newsletter → https://substack.com/@btfprogram100 Tips of Player Development → https://beyond-the-field-player-development.kit.com/09c6129dc1Player Development 101 → https://beyond-the-field-player-development.kit.com/pd101

In this episode of The Player Development Pod, Keionna Banks sits down with international speaker and motivator Will Baggett.We cover:Why alignment puts you in the right roomsHow to see pressure as privilege, not burdenThe importance of self-investment over self-sacrificeWhat it takes to pour into others without burning outWill has been a longtime supporter of Beyond The Field and his perspective is a reminder that true leadership is rooted in service, excellence, and consistency.Listen in and get inspired to redefine what pressure, leadership, and impact really mean.-The Player Development Guide → https://amzn.to/3TtnaA8Player Development Accelerator Assessment → https://edward-jones-po11g9mt.scoreapp.comIs Your Program Player Development READY? → https://edward-jones-0amn1dyi.scoreapp.comPlayer Development Newsletter → https://substack.com/@btfprogram100 Tips of Player Development → https://beyond-the-field-player-development.kit.com/09c6129dc1Player Development 101 → https://beyond-the-field-player-development.kit.com/pd101

In this episode of The Player Development Pod, I break down exactly how my book The Player Development Guide will transform the way you serve athletes.This isn't just another resource. It's a blueprint designed to give coaches and administrators a superpower — the ability to impact athletes holistically, both on and off the field.Here's what we'll cover:✅ How to create a real development plan for your current athletes✅ Why former athletes (alumni) are your most overlooked resource — and how to engage them✅ How to use player development to build trust with future athletes and parents during recruiting✅ The 10 core areas of player development that elevate programs beyond competitionWhether you're leading youth, high school, or college athletes, this episode will show you how to stop guessing and start building systems that last.Resources & Links:

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Player Development is not optional—it's essential.In this episode of The Player Development Pod, I break down the three main areas where a Player Development professional transforms a program:Players — creating belonging and situational awareness so every athlete feels valued.Program & Staff — supporting academics and recruiting so coaches can focus on coaching.External Relations — strengthening trust with families and alumni to build lasting culture.I share real stories from my time at Houston, Kansas, and Baylor, including how one recruiting adjustment helped land a future first-round draft pick, and how simple situational awareness calmed a nervous freshman before his first game.

Every high school coach wants to win games, but the true measure of a program is built on three groups: your incoming freshmen, your current team, and your graduating seniors/alumni.In this episode of the Player Development Pod, I break down why these three groups are the lifeline of your program and how you can strengthen each one.Here's what we cover:Incoming Freshmen: How to build your pipeline and set clear expectations from day one (and even before they arrive).Current Team: Why your current players are the proof of your culture and the best recruiting tool you have.Graduating Seniors & Alumni: The most overlooked group, and how investing in them creates long-term program credibility.I also share stories from my six years as a high school coach in Houston and my time as Director of Player Development at Houston, Kansas, and Baylor. Whether you coach football, basketball, soccer, or any sport, these principles will help you move from building teams to building legacies.-The Player Development Guide → https://amzn.to/3TtnaA8Player Development Accelerator Assessment → https://edward-jones-po11g9mt.scoreapp.comIs Your Program Player Development READY? → https://edward-jones-0amn1dyi.scoreapp.comPlayer Development Newsletter → https://substack.com/@btfprogram100 Tips of Player Development → https://beyond-the-field-player-development.kit.com/09c6129dc1Player Development 101 → https://beyond-the-field-player-development.kit.com/pd101

Every high school coach wants to make an impact — but not every coach defines what that truly means. In this episode, I break down the three questions head coaches must answer if they want to create lasting impact for their athletes:What impact do you want to make?What is your commitment level?Who will help you?These questions go beyond wins and losses. They shape how your athletes will remember you 10 years from now.-The Player Development Guide → https://amzn.to/3TtnaA8Player Development Accelerator Assessment → https://edward-jones-po11g9mt.scoreapp.comIs Your Program Player Development READY? → https://edward-jones-0amn1dyi.scoreapp.comPlayer Development Newsletter → https://substack.com/@btfprogram100 Tips of Player Development → https://beyond-the-field-player-development.kit.com/09c6129dc1Player Development 101 → https://beyond-the-field-player-development.kit.com/pd101

The Learning Process is the backbone of intentional player development. In this episode, I break down the four stages — educate, engage, equip, and experience — and show how they can transform your program and your athletes.From career fairs to internships, I share practical examples of how to apply this model so that every athlete leaves with intentional growth.

Duke Football takes the field against Elon, but behind the scenes their athletes are preparing for something even bigger.In this episode, I sit down with Dorian Jackson to talk about the Duke Futures Initiative:Why athletes should build résumés and LinkedIn profiles as freshmenHow Duke's 145,000+ alumni are helping athletes with careersWhy trial and error internships matter for playersHow pros reconnect after their careersThis is the standard for athlete development: intentional, holistic, and impactful.Resources:The Player Development Guide → https://amzn.to/3TtnaA8Player Development Accelerator Assessment → https://edward-jones-po11g9mt.scoreapp.comIs Your Program Player Development READY? → https://edward-jones-0amn1dyi.scoreapp.comPlayer Development Newsletter → https://substack.com/@btfprogram100 Tips of Player Development → https://beyond-the-field-player-development.kit.com/09c6129dc1Player Development 101 → https://beyond-the-field-player-development.kit.com/pd101

We did it — 1,000 YouTube subscribers!

⚠️ Content WarningThis episode discusses sextortion, suicide, and sensitive topics related to athlete safety and mental health. Listener discretion is advised. If you are struggling or need help, please contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in the U.S. or seek support from a trusted professional in your area.36 confirmed deaths. Countless more unreported.Sextortion is the scam that preys on young athletes — posing as girls online, manipulating them into sending explicit photos, and then blackmailing them with shame and threats.In this episode, Ed shares:His personal story of an athlete who almost fell victim.Alarming stats from Dan Wetzel's Yahoo Sports report.3 practical safeguards for parents, coaches & athletes.Why silence kills — and how to fight back.

College football's opening weekend reminded me of a conversation I had this summer. North Carolina Central just earned a big win in the MEAC–SWAC Challenge over Southern, and it's the perfect moment to highlight Darian Iverson, Player Development Coordinator at NCCU.In this short but impactful episode, Darian and I discuss:Why NCCU recruits high-character athletesHow HBCUs are doing meaningful player development with fewer resourcesThe role of alumni + community in creating opportunitiesWhy player development at the HBCU level is both needed and powerfulEven though this conversation was recorded in the summer, it's a timely reminder that what's happening off the field is just as important as what we see on Saturdays.

In this episode, I unpack one of the most common questions I get in player development: “How do I land an NFL player engagement job?”While it's a valid question, it's also a limited one. I break down why opportunities in the NFL are rare, how most staffers started in college roles, and why chasing a logo isn't the same as creating real impact.If you've ever thought the NFL was the only path to athlete development success, this episode will challenge your perspective.

When most programs launch player development, they fall into one trap: copycatting.They see what another school is doing—maybe Clemson's Paul Journey—and try to carbon copy it. But every university, every roster, and every city is unique. Copycatting leads to programs that look good on paper but fail to make a real impact on athletes.In this episode, I'll walk you through the four steps to avoid the copycat trap and build a program that's genuine to YOU and your athletes:Step 1: Define your foundation — What impact do you want to make?Step 2: Identify your resources — What's already available on campus and in your city?Step 3: Decide how you'll execute — Who's involved, how often, and what structure works best?Step 4: Put it in writing — A clear, strategic plan that earns buy-in.Whether you're a new Director of Player Development, a coach, or an administrator, this episode will help you design a program that's intentional, sustainable, and impactful.

In this episode of The Player Development Pod, I open up about two pivotal career moments when I knew it was time to leave a role I worked hard to get.From leaving Kansas for Baylor with a $40K raise to recognizing the early signs that my Baylor role was changing — these stories are filled with lessons on value, timing, and career strategy.If you're in athlete development or student-athlete support, this episode will help you navigate tough decisions with clarity.-

Career development in player development isn't just about job placement—it's about preparing athletes for a lifetime of success.In this episode, I walk you through the Professional Development Progression, a 5-step framework from The Player Development Guide (page 123) that covers:1️⃣ Documentation – resumes, cover letters, LinkedIn profiles2️⃣ Presentation – personal brand, social media presence, professional dress3️⃣ Preparation – interviews, networking, communication skills4️⃣ Compensation – salary negotiation, benefits, financial literacy5️⃣ Transformation – applying it all for long-term impactWhether you're a director, coach, or aspiring player development professional, this roadmap will help you move athletes from the playing field into thriving careers.

There are 10 core areas that can define a great player development program—and every program leader should know them.In this episode, I break down:The 10 areas of player development that impact athletes for lifeWhy starting with 3 creates the most focus and resultsHow you can use these areas to guide your program's directionWhether you're a player development professional, coach, or administrator, this episode will help you think bigger about your role and your athletes' growth.

In this episode of The Player Development Pod, I pull back the curtain on what it's really like to work for a head coach who doesn't understand player development.From being left off the schedule to having your professional growth stunted, these are the eight hard truths I've learned in my career — and what they mean for your role:1️⃣ They are either for you or against you2️⃣ They will say they get it3️⃣ They believe they're putting you in the best position4️⃣ They get territorial5️⃣ They can stunt your professional growth6️⃣ You won't be a priority on the schedule7️⃣ They won't take time to see how you impact the program8️⃣ They don't understand the value you bring as a professionalIf you're in this field, knowing these truths will help you navigate tough situations and still create impact. If you're a coach, this might change the way you lead your program.

In this episode, Edward dives deep into the why behind strategy in player development.Many programs rely on good people doing good things — but without strategy, the work lacks staying power. He shares four critical reasons why strategy is the key to sustainable and scalable impact:Player development is often misunderstoodStrategy allows for intentional impactStrategy supports data and follow-upStrategy creates opportunity for resources and support

What does true player development look like? In this episode, I share the 3 core pillars that shaped the Beyond the Field program during my time at the University of Houston, Kansas, and Baylor.From financial wellness to community outreach to real career placement—we cover it all.

For the first time ever, Beyond the Field hit the road to spend intentional time with a college football program — and our first stop was Duke University.In this reflection episode, I highlight the four biggest takeaways from my visit:1️⃣ John Battle – His journey from player to pro to Director of Player Development2️⃣ Coach Manny Diaz – A head coach who truly gets the power of off-the-field growth3️⃣ Duke Student-Athletes – Locked in, respectful, elite minds who showed up for Leadership Week4️⃣ The City of Durham – Great food, amazing people, and a true college town vibeThis was a milestone moment for Beyond the Field — the first time we've followed a program from the inside. And it won't be the last.

This is a milestone episode. For the first time on The Player Development Pod, we're joined by a head coach: Coach Manny Diaz of Duke Football.Coach Diaz dives into:The critical role player development plays in his programHow off-the-field growth leads to on-the-field resultsHis belief in holistic care for student-athletesThe incredible impact of John Battle IV's work with Duke FootballYou'll want to hear this one — a head coach who gets it. And we're just getting started.Get Your Copy of the BOOK - The Player Development Guide: https://amzn.to/4ju6ov3Player Development Newsletter: https://beyondthefield.substack.com/ Player Development Plan Course: https://btfplayerdevelopmentcourses.thinkific.com/courses/player-development-plan-beginnersAbout Ed Jones IIFounder | Educator | Culture Builder | Voice of the Player Development MovementEd Jones II is a globally respected authority in player development—known not just for what he does, but for how he builds people. With a career rooted in service, leadership, and transformation, Ed has impacted over 500 student-athletes across Power Five programs, including the University of Houston, the University of Kansas, and Baylor University, where he rose to Assistant Athletic Director.Today, he is the founder and CEO of Beyond The Field, a pioneering company that equips schools, organizations, and leaders with the structure, strategy, and soul to build intentional off-the-field experiences for athletes. Through assessments, certification programs, high-impact workshops, and strategic consulting, Ed is helping shape the future of athlete development across the country.He is also the creator of a fast-growing educational ecosystem that includes: – The Player Development Pod (200+ episodes and counting) – The Player Development Summit (the leading national event for professionals in the space) – The Player Development Newsletter (insight and strategy delivered weekly) – The Player Development Plan Course & Cohorts (a step-by-step blueprint for building programs that matter) – Three published books, including the bestselling Player Development GuideWhat sets Ed apart is his clarity. He doesn't just speak about change—he builds systems that make it possible. Ed's work sits at the intersection of education, athletics, and personal growth, and he's quickly becoming the go-to mind for departments, directors, and decision-makers who want to build better, not just louder.If you're building a program, a department, or a career in the space of athlete development, there are two types of people: – Those who have connected with Ed Jones II. – And those who are about to.Connect with Ed here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edjonesii/-PLEASE LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, AND SHARE.Let's Talk Player Development. Email me here: info@btfprogram.com Visit: https://www.btfprogram.com/ Follow:Twitter - https://twitter.com/BTF_Program Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/btf_program/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/BTFProgramLet's Talk Player Development. Email me here: edward@btfprogram.com #PlayerDevelopment #DukeFootball #CoachMannyDiaz #AthleteSupport #BeyondTheField