Diego Pavia: The Zero-Star Mindset That Built an SEC Leader

Deebo Samuel On NFL Training, Mindset & Giving Back In Spartanburg

On this episode of The Turf Powered by D1, Deebo Samuel returns to his hometown of Spartanburg, South Carolina, to host a free youth camp and share his story of growth, resilience, and elite performance in the NFL. From his training philosophy and weekly offseason routine to the importance of recovery, coaching influence, and building the right support system, Deebo breaks down what it really takes to stay at the highest level. He opens up about lessons learned from high school to the pros, the evolution of his training approach, and how he maintains longevity while competing in the league. He also reflects on playing for the South Carolina Gamecocks, San Francisco 49ers and Washington Commanders, the importance of belief and mentorship, and why giving back to the next generation of athletes is so important to him. This episode is all about mindset, gratitude, and the grind behind greatness—straight from one of the NFL’s most dynamic playmakers.

Jon Gruden on Coaching, Culture & Building Tough Athletes

Super Bowl-winning coach Jon Gruden joins The Turf: Powered by D1 for a wide-ranging conversation on what really builds great athletes—and great teams. Gruden dives into why the weight room is the foundation of leadership and mental toughness, how coaches can elevate their communication and energy (“juice”), and the traits he values most in players beyond just talent. He also shares real-world advice for parents navigating today’s youth sports landscape—from NIL pressure to postgame conversations in the car—and explains why effort, execution, and passion matter more than hype or exposure. Plus, Gruden reflects on the mentors who shaped his career, the importance of surrounding yourself with driven people, and why team sports remain one of the best paths to discipline, resilience, and long-term success.

Diego Pavia: The Zero-Star Mindset That Built an SEC Leader

In this episode of The Turf: Powered by D1, Diego Pavia shares how he went from overlooked, zero-star recruit to leading the Vanderbilt Commodores football to historic success. From backyard drills in New Mexico to the JUCO grind at New Mexico Military Institute, Pavia breaks down the mindset that helped him beat the odds. He dives into the importance of family, faith, and blocking out outside noise—plus what it really takes to earn your opportunity and stay ready when it comes. Now training for the NFL Draft, Pavia also gives a behind-the-scenes look at his daily grind, evolving training approach, and what he’s doing to prove he belongs at the next level. Whether you're an athlete, coach, or parent, this episode is packed with real insight on development, resilience, and what separates competitors from winners.

Clif Marshall: The Combine Mindset — Efficiency, Identity & Earning Your Shot

What does it take to succeed at the NFL Combine — and make an NFL roster? On this episode of The Turf: Powered by D1, Will Bartholomew talks with D1 senior director of coaching and pro athlete training Clif Marshall about the training, mindset, and preparation behind the biggest job interview in football. Clif breaks down how athletes improve their 40 time through efficiency, manage performance anxiety, and prepare physically and mentally to perform when it counts. He also shares what NFL scouts really evaluate beyond testing numbers — including character, consistency, and coachability. You’ll learn: 1. How to improve speed and combine performance 2. Why efficiency matters more than raw talent 3. What NFL teams ask about you behind the scenes 4. How to train, recover, and prepare like a pro 5. Why your identity and relationships matter beyond football Whether you’re an athlete, parent, or coach, this episode delivers practical insights for performing at the next level.

On3 CEO Shannon Terry: Why Youth Sports Matter More Than Ever

On3 and Rivals CEO Shannon Terry joins The Turf: Powered by D1 to share why he believes youth sports are the foundation of athletic development, leadership, and lifelong relationships. Terry discusses the importance of multi-sport participation, honest evaluations, and education for families navigating recruiting. He also breaks down NIL realities, the challenges facing college athletics, and how trust and transparency can help athletes, parents, and coaches make better decisions in an increasingly complex sports landscape.