College and Career Clarity: Recent Episodes

Lisa Marker Robbins

If you are overwhelmed with the college-bound journey, confused by how much things have changed, or frustrated by having more questions than answers, then College and Career Clarity is the compass you need, when you need it most. Weekly episodes with Lisa Marker-Robbins and her guests provide families with strategic guidance to resource your student to make informed choices that align with their passions, purpose, and potential future. You’ll be informed to be able to have intentional & productive family conversations grounded in guidance and broken into actionable steps to move from overwhelmed and confused to motivated, clear, and confident about your teen’s future.

View Details

The college essay that asks, "Why this major?" is about far more than getting into college.

In this solo episode, Lisa Marker-Robbins explains why this common admissions prompt reflects a question students will continue answering throughout internships, scholarship applications, graduate school, networking conversations, and future careers.

Drawing from years of coaching students and families, Lisa explores what colleges are hoping to learn through this common application question. She also explains why the answer can shape far more than a college application, offering perspective for parents and students preparing for the decisions ahead.

In this episode, Lisa and Julia discuss:

  • Why the "Why This Major?" essay extends far beyond college admissions
  • How colleges evaluate the evidence behind a student's decisions
  • The role career exploration plays in choosing a major with confidence
  • How parents can help students clarify their direction through better conversations

Key Takeaways:

  • Strong applications come from students who can point to classes, volunteer work, hobbies, job shadows, informational interviews, internships, or other experiences that demonstrate they explored their interests before choosing a major.
  • Students don't need to know exactly what they'll do for the next 40 years, but they should be able to explain why their chosen major is the best next step based on what they've learned so far.
  • Organizing a student's story around past exploration, present reasoning, and future direction creates stronger college essays while also preparing them for internships, scholarship applications, networking conversations, and future job interviews.
  • Parents can reduce pressure by replacing quizzes and debates with conversations that help students explain why a major fits them, especially when considering common default choices like business, nursing, or engineering.

“No job's a good job if it doesn't align with who they are as a person.” – Lisa Marker-Robbins

Episode References:

  • Get your questions answered live: https://flourishcoachingco.com/qa
  • Learn more about Launch Career Clarity at https://flourishcoachingco.com/course

  • 057 College Admission by Major with Andy Borst: https://flourishcoachingco.com/057

Sign up for my free webinar August 5, 2026, at 7:30 PM EST. Click the link to reserve your spot: https://flourishcoachingco.com/qa

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

Choosing a college is about far more than rankings, majors, and graduation rates.

Lisa Marker-Robbins sits down with Dr. Julia Lapan from the University of Virginia to explore what families should look for in a college experience that helps students build confidence, explore career possibilities, and prepare for life after graduation.

In this episode, Lisa and Julia discuss:

  • What separates colleges that produce strong career outcomes from those that leave students to figure it out themselves
  • Why self-awareness should come before choosing a major or pursuing internships
  • How to look beyond college rankings and employment statistics when comparing colleges
  • How UVA’s Arts and Sciences College embeds "career ecosystem" design throughout the four-year experience for all students

Key Takeaways:

  • Career exploration grows through conversations, small experiences, and personal projects or artifacts, not one defining opportunity.
  • Self-awareness should be foundational and built early, guiding choices about majors and internships.
  • Families should look beyond rankings and career outcomes to understand how a college supports career development across campus. Career services matter, but are only one part of the picture.
  • Parents can best support the process by asking thoughtful questions, encouraging exploration, and giving students the confidence to make their own decisions.

“It's never too early to begin planning for one's life and career. It is also never too late.” – Julia Lapan

About Julia Lapan: Julia Lapan is the inaugural Executive Director of Career Design & Discovery at the University of Virginia's College and Graduate School of Arts & Sciences. With more than 20 years of experience in higher education, she previously served as Assistant Dean at UVA's School of Engineering and Applied Science, where she integrated career design into the first-year engineering curriculum. She holds a doctorate and master's degree from UVA and a bachelor's degree in psychology from the College of the Holy Cross.

Episode References:

  • Get your questions answered live: https://flourishcoachingco.com/qa
  • Learn more about Launch Career Clarity at https://flourishcoachingco.com/course
  • Sample Birkman Report Available at: https://flourishcoachingco.com/birkman
  • Fortune 100 CEO self-awareness study: https://www.forbes.com/sites/victorlipman/2013/11/18/all-successful-leaders-need-this-quality-self-awareness/

  • 212 How to Choose a College That Delivers Career ROI, with Jeff Selingo: https://flourishcoachingco.com/212

Sign up for my free webinar August 5, 2026 at 7:30 PM EST. Click the link to reserve your spot: https://flourishcoachingco.com/qa

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: THE CAREER IDENTIFICATION COMPASS: How To Be Certain Your 15 To 25 Year Old is On The Right Path to Launch With Confidence–Not Confusion: flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Julia:

Website: https://college.as.virginia.edu/people/julia-lapan

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julialapan/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

Many families eliminate strong career options long before a student has enough information to make a confident decision.

In this solo episode, Lisa Marker-Robbins challenges the belief that career planning should follow one clear, predictable path and introduces a broader way to think about career exploration.

Drawing on years of coaching families and the Birkman Method, Lisa explains why students often eliminate promising career options too early. Through her daughter Sydney's path from considering teaching and therapy to finding a career in sales, she shows how looking beyond job titles can lead to stronger career decisions.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

  • The limitations of viewing career planning as a single, linear path
  • Career ecosystems and the value of exploring overlapping job families
  • Better questions that lead to stronger career conversations and decisions
  • Using self-awareness, values, and career assessments to uncover unexpected career fits

Key Takeaways:

  • Instead of ruling out an entire career path, pay attention to the responsibilities, work environment, and values that feel like a good fit, then use those patterns to explore related roles.
  • Replace conversations about choosing the "right" career with questions about what feels energizing, what feels draining, and which environments and values stand out.
  • Sydney's career exploration shows how combining the Birkman assessment with academic strengths, aptitudes, and personal values can reveal career fits that aren't obvious from an initial list of matches, ultimately leading her to a career in sales.
  • Start with job families to narrow the field, then explore where different career areas overlap to uncover opportunities that traditional, linear career planning often misses.

“The first one of the big mistakes we make is trying to put our kids into a box on a linear path.” – Lisa Marker-Robbins

Episode References:

  • Job Families Sample with Birkman Report: https://flourishcoachingco.com/jobs
  • Learn more about Launch Career Clarity at https://flourishcoachingco.com/course
  • Sample Birkman Report Available at: https://flourishcoachingco.com/birkman

  • 059 Career Close-Up: Accounting Doesn’t Have to be Boring with Jim Vogt https://flourishcoachingco.com/059

  • 235 The Career Lens Most Parents Never Consider https://flourishcoachingco.com/235

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: THE CAREER IDENTIFICATION COMPASS: How To Be Certain Your 15 To 25 Year Old is On The Right Path to Launch With Confidence–Not Confusion: flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

Helping a young person choose a career starts with asking better questions, not having every answer.

In this solo episode, Lisa Marker-Robbins challenges the common ways families approach career planning and introduces a fresh perspective that expands possibilities for teens, college students, and young adults.

Rather than focusing on majors, prestige, or job market predictions, Lisa explains why looking at the type of work a person is wired to enjoy creates stronger long-term career confidence. She also shares practical ways parents can shift from feeling responsible for finding the right answer to becoming a trusted thinking partner as their child explores future opportunities.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

  • A broader way to think about career planning that goes beyond majors and job titles
  • Why preparing for life after graduation requires a different mindset than preparing for graduation
  • How self-awareness can uncover career paths that fit a person's natural strengths
  • The role parents can play in encouraging exploration instead of rushing decisions

Key Takeaways:

  • Parents and high schools often focus on passions, academic strengths, job outlook, or prestige, but those factors alone create an incomplete picture when helping a young person choose a career.
  • Organizing career exploration around the U.S. Department of Labor's job family framework helps students identify the type of work that fits their natural wiring instead of committing too early to a specific major or profession.
  • Career clusters can help students choose classes and educational pathways, while job families encourage a longer-term view of career fit and adaptability as occupations continue to evolve.
  • Parents can reduce pressure by asking thoughtful questions, encouraging exploration before commitment, and helping their child recognize recurring patterns in their interests and strengths instead of trying to provide all the answers.

“Families often think that what they really want is a major... What you really want is a confident path to the future.” – Lisa Marker-Robbins

Episode References:

  • 221 The #1 Predictor of Your Child’s Career Success (It’s Not What You Think) https://flourishcoachingco.com/221

  • Job Families Sample with Birkman Report: https://flourishcoachingco.com/jobs
  • Learn more about Launch Career Clarity at FlourishCoachingCo.com/course

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: THE CAREER IDENTIFICATION COMPASS: How To Be Certain Your 15 To 25 Year Old is On The Right Path to Launch With Confidence–Not Confusion: flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

Time has a way of speeding up, especially when major decisions about school, careers, and independence are on the horizon.

In this solo episode, Lisa Marker-Robbins encourages parents to pause for a mid-year career clarity check, helping families assess where teens, college students, and young adults stand before the next milestone arrives.

She walks through four key stages families face when preparing to launch their young person into adult independence while explaining why direction requires intention rather than waiting for time to solve uncertainty. Along the way, Lisa shares practical questions and conversation strategies to help families build confidence, foster greater ownership, and prepare for the second half of the year.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

  • How career clarity changes across the different stages of a young person's development
  • The common patterns that leave families feeling behind as major milestones approach
  • Why intentional planning matters more than waiting for maturity or time to create direction
  • Ways parents can encourage greater ownership while preparing students for increasing independence

Key Takeaways:

  • (04:14) Milestone #1: High School Years — Students need more than a plan after graduation. They need to understand why they're choosing a particular path and ensure their decisions align with long-term career goals.
  • (09:00) Milestone #2: Around Age 20 — By this stage, families should look for evidence of intentional progress rather than assuming maturity alone will create direction or career momentum.
  • (13:52) Milestone #3: The First Career Search — Landing a career requires more than credentials. Young adults need the self-awareness and communication skills to explain the value they bring to an employer.
  • (19:09) Milestone #4: The Launch Line — Parents can best support independence by leading conversations with empathy and curiosity while encouraging greater ownership instead of stepping in to solve every problem.

“Lead the discussion with questions and curiosity, not with directives or orders.” – Lisa Marker-Robbins

Episode References:

  • Learn more about Launch Career Clarity at FlourishCoachingCo.com/course

  • 169 The Hidden Impact of College Major Selection on Admissions with Rick Clark: https://flourishcoachingco.com/169

  • 212 How to Choose a College That Delivers Career ROI, with Jeff Selingo: https://flourishcoachingco.com/212

  • 221 The #1 Predictor of Your Child’s Career Success (It’s Not What You Think): https://flourishcoachingco.com/221

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: THE CAREER IDENTIFICATION COMPASS: How To Be Certain Your 15 To 25 Year Old is On The Right Path to Launch With Confidence–Not Confusion: flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

Many parents assume confidence comes before action, but Lisa Marker-Robbins explains why that belief often keeps young people stuck.

In this solo episode, she explores why teens, college students, and young adults are more likely to pursue opportunities and explore career paths when they feel supported rather than fully prepared.

Drawing on stories from her own life and observations from working with over 4,000 families, Lisa breaks down the common roadblocks that appear during career development and the factors that help students move forward. She shares a practical framework built around support, tools, and community to help young people build courage and take the next step.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

  • Common misconceptions about confidence and why they often hold young people back
  • The challenges that arise when students move from career research to real-world action
  • Practical ways to make networking, career conversations, and outreach feel less intimidating
  • How to use support systems and community to help build the courage to take the next step

Key Takeaways:

  • Confidence is built through action, not preparation alone, which means students do not need to feel ready before reaching out to professionals, exploring career paths, or pursuing new opportunities.
  • Young people are more likely to take courageous steps when they have mentors, coaches, or trusted guides who can offer encouragement, direction, and examples from their own experience.
  • Practical resources such as email templates, conversation guides, and structured frameworks help reduce uncertainty and make career exploration feel far less overwhelming.
  • Parents should consider whether they are investing in career development with the same level of intention they often bring to academics, athletics, and other extracurricular activities, since every student will eventually enter the workforce.

“Young people don't become courageous because they suddenly feel ready; they become courageous because they feel supported.” – Lisa Marker-Robbins

Episode References:

  • Learn more about Launch Career Clarity at FlourishCoachingCo.com/course

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: THE CAREER IDENTIFICATION COMPASS: How To Be Certain Your 15 To 25-year-old is On The Right Path to Launch With Confidence–Not Confusion: flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

Career exploration often starts with enthusiasm but stalls at the exact point where clarity is supposed to take shape.

In this solo episode, Lisa Marker-Robbins shares a pattern she has observed after helping thousands of families, from those who have no idea where to start to those who believe they're checking all the right boxes: young people rarely get stuck because they lack information.

Instead, the biggest roadblock appears when it's time to move beyond assessments and online research into real-world career validation. Lisa explains why this stage feels difficult for teens, college students, and young adults. Using a personal continuous glucose monitor (CGM) experiment as an analogy, she illustrates the difference between awareness and validation and previews why courage becomes the next essential step in the career development process.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

  • The hidden challenges that emerge after an initial career interest takes shape
  • Why career confidence is built differently than most families expect
  • The role discomfort plays in major life and career decisions
  • How parents can better interpret periods of stalled progress

Key Takeaways:

  • Whether families are just beginning the career conversation or feel they're doing everything right, the validation stage is where many students and young adults lose momentum.
  • A student's willingness to complete assessments and research careers is often evidence of engagement, which means stalled progress is more likely tied to discomfort with the next step than a lack of motivation.
  • Real career confidence is built through validation experiences such as informational conversations, job shadows, internships, part-time work, and other forms of firsthand exposure that test assumptions against reality.
  • Awareness comes from gathering information, but confidence grows when ideas are tested in real-world situations and assumptions are replaced with firsthand experience.

“If you skip steps, you skip results, and that's where things fall apart.” – Lisa Marker-Robbins

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: THE CAREER IDENTIFICATION COMPASS: How To Be Certain Your 15 To 25 Year Old is On The Right Path to Launch With Confidence–Not Confusion: flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

Success in school, college, and work often depends on skills that many young people are never formally taught.

In this episode, Lisa Marker-Robbins talks with Katie Azevedo about the executive function systems that help students and young adults stay organized, follow through on responsibilities, and build independence.

In this episode, Lisa and Katie discuss:

  • Why executive function skills become more important as responsibilities increase
  • Common habits that keep students overwhelmed and behind on responsibilities
  • How task management and time management work together to support independence
  • Ways parents can model organization and planning in everyday life

Key Takeaways:

  • School portals help students see assignments, but they don't provide a way to manage project steps, study sessions, or responsibilities outside the classroom.
  • Chronic procrastination, missed deadlines, and last minute scrambling are often signs that a student lacks a reliable system for capturing and tracking tasks.
  • Effective task management starts by gathering commitments from school, work, activities, family responsibilities, and other sources into one trusted location.
  • Summer offers a lower pressure environment to practice organization and follow through, making the transition into a new school year, semester, or job much smoother.

“The two biggest skill deficits that are holding professionals back are a lack of task management and a lack of time management systems.” – Katie Azevedo

About Katie Azevedo: Katie Azevedo, M.Ed., is the founder of SchoolHabits.com, the creator of the Executive Function Journal, and the host of the Learn and Work Smarter Podcast.

With a Master's Degree in Special Education and nearly 20 years of teaching experience, Katie specializes in the intersection between ADHD and academics. She runs a private executive function coaching business and an online course, SchoolHabits University, where she helps students and professionals learn and work better.

Episode References:

  • Assignment Management Power System: https://www.assignmentmanagementsystem.com/
  • Executive Function Journal: https://www.executivefunctionjournal.com/
  • #159 Study Strategies to Beat Your Teen’s Mid-Year Slump with Katie Azevedo: https://flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/159-study-strategies-to-beat-your-teens-mid-year-slump-with-katie-azevedo/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: THE CAREER IDENTIFICATION COMPASS: How To Be Certain Your 15 To 25 Year Old is On The Right Path to Launch With Confidence–Not Confusion: flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Katie:

Podcast: Learn and Work Smarter: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/learn-and-work-smarter/id1719881389

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schoolhabits/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SchoolHabits

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SchoolHabitsKatie/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katie-azevedo/

Website: https://schoolhabits.com/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

What if the biggest mistake in college admissions is trying to impress colleges instead of helping them understand who you are?

In this episode, Lisa Marker-Robbins sits down with Susan Knoppow to discuss what admissions officers are actually looking for, why applicants often miss the point of essay prompts, and how a strong process leads to stronger essays.

In this episode, Lisa and Susan discuss:

  • How colleges evaluate applicants beyond grades and test scores
  • The importance of supplemental essays
  • Balancing authenticity with strategy in the application process
  • Managing the essay process without unnecessary pressure

Key Takeaways:

  • Many applicants spend too much time trying to sound impressive when admissions officers are more interested in whether they answer the question and reveal something meaningful about themselves.
  • Personal statements are most effective when they focus on character and personal growth, while supplemental essays often provide evidence of fit, direction, preparation, and interest in a specific major or institution.
  • Students do not need extraordinary accomplishments or dramatic stories to stand out. What matters more is self awareness, authenticity, and a clear understanding of their goals.
  • A structured process that includes reflection, brainstorming, drafting, revising, and a realistic timeline can lead to stronger essays and less stress for both students and parents.

“The lower the stakes, the better the student actually performs.” – Susan Knoppow

About Susan Knoppow: Susan is the CEO and co-founder of Wow Writing Workshop, where she created the Wow Method, a simple, ten step process for writing college essays used by thousands of students, counselors, and educational consultants. A former executive speechwriter and copywriter, she is also a published poet and essayist. She holds a BA in Psychology from the University of Michigan and an MFA in Writing from Vermont College.

Episode References:

  • Download Susan's free 10 Step College Essay Writing Guide: https://wowwritingworkshop.com/flourish
  • Explore admission by major at all 50 state flagship universities: https://courses.flourishcoachingco.com/majors

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: THE CAREER IDENTIFICATION COMPASS: How To Be Certain Your 15 To 25 Year Old is On The Right Path to Launch With Confidence–Not Confusion: flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Susan:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wowessayexperts

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wowwriting

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wowwritingworkshop

Website: https://wowwritingworkshop.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanknoppow/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

What if the biggest summer mistake isn't doing too much, but doing too little with the extra time available?

In this solo episode, Lisa Marker-Robbins explains why families who treat summer as a time to simply relax often reach Labor Day feeling behind, highlighting the difference between rest and rejuvenation and showing how intentional action can help students build confidence, momentum, and direction for what comes next.

Lisa also shares practical strategies to help teens and young adults gain self-awareness, explore future possibilities, build momentum, and enter the fall with greater clarity, confidence, and direction.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

  • Seasonal habits and their long-term emotional impact
  • The relationship between unstructured time, responsibility, and personal growth
  • How young adults respond to uncertainty and expectations
  • Creating sustainable momentum during periods of transition

Key Takeaways:

  • Unstructured summertime often leads to drift rather than progress, causing many teens and young adults to fall into inconsistent routines, shift their sleep schedules, spend more time on screens, postpone responsibilities, and reach Labor Day feeling anxious about what comes next.
  • While rest helps students recover from the demands of the school year, rejuvenating activities that are life-giving and momentum-building, such as learning new skills, exploring interests, building relationships, and gaining career exposure, are often what create energy, confidence, and forward progress.
  • What looks like a lack of motivation is often a lack of clarity, as many young people feel overwhelmed by expectations from themselves, their families, and their peers, leaving them unsure where to begin and afraid of making the wrong choice.
  • Confidence is usually the result of action, with self-awareness, intentional exploration, networking, and real-world experiences helping students build clarity, motivation, and direction as they take meaningful steps toward future goals.

“Families often are sitting there waiting for that motivation first, but momentum is what will create the motivation.” – Lisa Marker-Robbins

Episode References:

  • Ready for a different outcome this fall? Start with this free video today: https://courses.flourishcoachingco.com/clarity

  • 228 Why Capable Kids End Up Stuck in Miserable Jobs: https://flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/228-why-capable-kids-end-up-stuck-in-miserable-jobs/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: THE CAREER IDENTIFICATION COMPASS: How To Be Certain Your 15 To 25 Year Old is On The Right Path to Launch With Confidence–Not Confusion: flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

What if the biggest challenge facing young adults isn’t a lack of opportunity, but a lack of intentional direction early on?

In this episode, Lisa Marker-Robbins explores how delayed self-awareness and career exploration can leave capable young adults feeling stuck despite outward success. Using the story of Molly, a 26-year-old HR professional, she illustrates how adult responsibilities gradually shape career decisions and limit flexibility over time.

She also shares how intentional exploration, real-world exposure, and confidence-building can help young adults gain clarity earlier and avoid feeling successful on paper but deeply unfulfilled in reality.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

  • How delayed self-awareness can lead to career dissatisfaction
  • How do adult responsibilities gradually reduce career flexibility
  • Building confidence through networking and real-world exploration
  • Using intentional time to create clarity and momentum

Key Takeaways:

  • Many young adults feel trapped in careers that no longer fit because they made major decisions in the teen years before fully understanding themselves, making later pivots emotionally and financially difficult.
  • Adult responsibilities like income expectations, location, relationships, routines, work-life balance, and community ties gradually reduce career flexibility and make once-possible paths feel less realistic.
  • Waiting for clarity without intentional action often creates more confusion, while restarting, “paying dues” again, or returning to school can feel much harder once adult responsibilities begin stacking up.
  • Informational interviews, networking, and intentional exploration can help young adults discover better-fitting opportunities while also building confidence, resilience, and professional initiative.

“It’s not about forcing certainty. It’s about helping them understand themselves, explore, and validate within a real systematic framework so that they can gain early traction.” – Lisa Marker-Robbins

Episode References:

  • 013 The Many Advantages of a Gap Year with Holly Bull: https://flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/13-the-many-advantages-of-a-gap-year/

  • 062 Gap Year: Is it a better freshman start?: https://flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/062-gap-year-is-it-a-better-freshmen-start/

  • Turn confusion into career clarity—and give your teen direction and you peace of mind with Launch Career Clarity®: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/course/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: THE CAREER IDENTIFICATION COMPASS: How To Be Certain Your 15 To 25 Year Old is On The Right Path to Launch With Confidence–Not Confusion: flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

What if the biggest obstacle to a young adult’s independence isn’t lack of support, but too much of the wrong kind?

In this episode, Lisa Marker-Robbins explores the subtle ways well-meaning parents can unintentionally undermine ownership and agency as their teens and young adults prepare for life after high school or college.

She explains why certain parenting habits can leave young adults struggling to confidently make grounded decisions for themselves, while sharing practical ways families can stay involved without taking over through healthier conversations around future planning, real-world exploration, and responsibility-driven confidence building.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

  • Balancing support and independence during the transition into adulthood
  • Common parenting behaviors that affect confidence and decision-making
  • Building ownership and agency through guided responsibility
  • Creating healthier family dynamics around future planning and career direction

Key Takeaways:

  • Over-directing young adults may bring quick decisions and short-term relief, but it limits their sense of ownership, agency, and confidence, often increasing dependence on others.
  • Stepping back too much or avoiding hard conversations also fails to build independence, since young adults still need guidance, accountability, and support; without it, they may feel lost, delayed, or resentful.
  • Outsourcing responsibility entirely can be harmful when parents assume schools, counselors, or others will manage the process, instead of staying engaged as a source of perspective and steady support.
  • A healthier approach balances guidance with responsibility: offering structure and expectations while allowing young adults to act, make mistakes, sit with discomfort, and gradually build the confidence to decide for themselves.

“Support is not the problem. The problem is, when support replaces ownership, there should be people in the car, the right people, and when there are, your child should still be the one driving.” – Lisa Marker-Robbins

Episode References:

  • 226 What Your “On Track” Child Might Be Missing https://flourishcoachingco.com/226

  • Turn confusion into career clarity—and give your teen direction and you peace of mind with Launch Career Clarity®: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/course/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: THE CAREER IDENTIFICATION COMPASS: How To Be Certain Your 15 To 25 Year Old is On The Right Path to Launch With Confidence–Not Confusion: flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

What if students who seem “on track” are actually headed in the wrong direction?

In this solo episode, Lisa Marker-Robbins challenges the traditional focus on grades, college acceptance, and achievement, revealing why these milestones often create a false sense of progress. She explains how families unintentionally prioritize the wrong finish line, leading students to graduate without clarity, confidence, or real-world readiness.

Through powerful examples and practical insight, she outlines how early self-awareness, intentional career exploration, and real-world validation can help students build true momentum toward a successful and independent future.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

  • Why students who appear successful can still feel lost after graduation
  • How common definitions of success in school can unintentionally mislead families
  • The hidden influence of expectations coming from parents and institutions
  • What it actually takes to build clarity and confidence before choosing a path

Key Takeaways:

  • It is entirely possible for a student to follow the expected path, earn strong grades, and attend a great college, yet still reach graduation without a clear direction because none of those steps required them to truly understand themselves or their future.
  • Many families feel reassured by steady progress through school milestones, but that sense of progress can be misleading when those achievements are not connected to a larger goal like long-term independence and career fit.
  • Students often commit to majors or career paths based on what feels right in the moment, and only later realize the mismatch when they encounter real-world constraints or limitations that force them to reconsider.
  • Clarity comes from doing the deeper work early, including understanding personal strengths and preferences, exploring options with intention, and testing those interests in real environments before making decisions that are harder to reverse later.

“If we don't define the finish line early enough, young people will still move forward, but they'll just move forward with something that may not be a fit.” – Lisa Marker-Robbins

Episode References:

  • Turn confusion into career clarity—and give your teen direction and you peace of mind with Launch Career Clarity®: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/course/

  • 221 The #1 Predictor of Your Child’s Career Success (It’s Not What You Think) https://flourishcoachingco.com/221

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: THE CAREER IDENTIFICATION COMPASS: How To Be Certain Your 15 To 25 Year Old is On The Right Path to Launch With Confidence–Not Confusion: flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

What if the real college major deadline isn’t when applications are submitted, but when students should be prepared to demonstrate direction?

In this solo episode, Lisa Marker-Robbins explains why college-bound students need to be ready to show direction by August 1, when applications open, and majors must be selected. She breaks down why waiting creates pressure, why students end up guessing, and what families should do now to avoid rushed decisions.

She then shares practical strategies and a student example, showing how self-awareness, filtering options by fit and strengths, and real-world exploration can help students build confidence and make more informed decisions early.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

  • Early preparation and timing expectations for college application readiness
  • The importance of personal clarity in academic and career decisions
  • How admissions teams evaluate demonstrated evidence of fit
  • Structural limits within universities that affect major flexibility

Key Takeaways:

  • August 1 is best understood as a readiness milestone rather than a strict deadline, marking when applications open, and students are expected to show evidence-based direction for a chosen major.
  • Admissions increasingly look for alignment between a student’s experiences and intended field, so clarity and demonstrated interest matter more than last-minute choices.
  • The idea that majors are easy to switch is often misleading. A 2024 Flourish Coaching study found only 8 percent of state flagship universities allow unrestricted switching of majors, with most imposing limits based on requirements or capacity.
  • A structured approach that begins with self-awareness, narrows options based on fit, and includes real-world testing helps students build confidence and make more intentional decisions before application season.

“When you're waiting on time to help it figure itself out, that doesn't remove the decision; waiting just delays it, and as you delay it, you raise the stakes.” – Lisa Marker-Robbins

Episode References:

  • Turn confusion into career clarity—and give your teen direction and you peace of mind with Launch Career Clarity®: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/course/
  • Credential Value Index https://credentialvalueindex.org

  • 214 “You Can Be Anything”: Why This Advice Backfires with Your Young Person https://flourishcoachingco.com/214

  • 169 The Hidden Impact of College Major Selection on Admissions with Rick Clark: https://flourishcoachingco.com/169

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: THE CAREER IDENTIFICATION COMPASS: How To Be Certain Your 15 To 25 Year Old is On The Right Path to Launch With Confidence–Not Confusion: flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

What if the moment your child finally feels “clear” is actually the moment they’re most at risk of making the wrong decision?

In this solo episode, Lisa Marker-Robbins challenges the assumption that clarity means readiness, explaining how early feelings of direction are often mistaken for true certainty. She breaks down why this sense of relief can lead families and students to rush decisions before doing the deeper work required for confidence.

Through real coaching stories and a powerful analogy, Lisa reveals how untested clarity can quietly derail long-term outcomes. She ultimately offers a more intentional approach to exploration and validation so young people can make decisions they can trust.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

  • Emotional signals and how feelings of relief or early progress influence decision-making
  • Exploration processes and the stages involved in discovering career direction over time
  • Validation methods and why multiple real-world experiences are necessary before committing
  • Social dynamics, familiar relationships, and broader networks in shaping career perceptions

Key Takeaways:

  • Early clarity often mirrors the relief of making initial progress, as seen with Maggie, and like losing the first 25 pounds in a 100-pound weight-loss journey, it feels encouraging but does not mean the full process is complete.
  • John and Mary both acted on limited early signals by making quick decisions after minimal exposure, showing how even the right actions, like informational interviews or job shadowing, can lead to poor outcomes when not done extensively.
  • Interactions with familiar people, such as Mary speaking with her uncle, can lead individuals to borrow confidence from the relationship itself rather than critically evaluating the actual work, which makes broader and less personal connections more valuable for accurate insight.
  • Pressure and urgency push people into reactive decision-making states, which increases the likelihood of rushing the process, skipping validation steps, and ultimately having to revisit and redo major decisions later on.

“Speed, it can feel good in the moment, but it often costs you a lot of clarity later on.” – Lisa Marker-Robbins

Episode References:

  • Episode #032 Your College List: Financial Fit with Dr. Abigail Sussman https://flourishcoachingco.com/032

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: THE CAREER IDENTIFICATION COMPASS: How To Be Certain Your 15 To 25 Year Old is On The Right Path to Launch With Confidence–Not Confusion: flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Dr. Tracy discuss:

  • The growing importance of human connection in building confidence, identity, and life direction
  • The impact of loneliness and social disconnection on younger generations
  • How networking and relationships influence career opportunities and success
  • Practical ways to build meaningful connections through conversation, curiosity, and presence

Key Takeaways:

  • Connection is not just social; it plays a central role in building confidence, shaping identity, and helping people figure out their direction, especially at a time when nearly half of people globally report feeling lonely.
  • The opportunities that change your trajectory rarely come from your closest circle, but from weaker, more distant connections who expose you to new information and paths, which is why they so often lead to jobs and new opportunities.
  • You don’t need experience, accolades, or “value” to network. Genuine curiosity and the willingness to ask are often enough to open doors, especially since people are naturally wired to help.
  • The fastest way to become memorable in any interaction is to shift focus outward; strong listening and thoughtful questions consistently outperform trying to impress, and make others feel seen.

“People really love to help, and sometimes your asking is actually such a gift to them.” – Dr. Tracy Brower

About Dr. Tracy Brower: Dr. Tracy Brower is a PhD sociologist studying community, happiness, and the future of work and life. She is a Global 50 Thinker and the award-winning author of three books: Critical Connections, The Secrets to Happiness at Work, and Bring Work to Life. She is the vice president of workplace insights with Steelcase and a senior contributor to Forbes and Fast Company. She is a Top 101 Experience and Engagement Influencer, and her work has been translated into 25 languages, while her TEDx talk has been viewed 8.6 million times.

Episode References:

  • Build a standout LinkedIn profile and start making meaningful connections here: https://flourishcoachingco.com/linkedin
  • Critical Connections by Tracy Brower, PhD https://a.co/d/059dcuAh

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: THE CAREER IDENTIFICATION COMPASS: How To Be Certain Your 15 To 25 Year Old is On The Right Path to Launch With Confidence–Not Confusion: flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Dr. Tracy:

Twitter: https://x.com/TracyBrower108

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tlb108/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tracybrowerauthor

LinkedIn: Lhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/tracybrowerphd/

Website: https://tracybrower.com/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa, John, and Andrew discuss:

  • Apprenticeships are expanding beyond traditional trades into diverse modern industries
  • Blending education with real-world work through earn-and-learn pathways
  • Rising demand for soft skills alongside technical knowledge
  • The shift toward flexible career paths and lifelong learning

Key Takeaways:

  • Apprenticeships now span fields like healthcare, cybersecurity, advanced manufacturing, and AI, allowing individuals to earn while gaining experience and often avoiding student debt.
  • Employers prioritize communication, critical thinking, and professionalism over pre-existing technical expertise.
  • Apprenticeships offer a strong return on investment with lower education costs, higher retention, and greater long-term earnings.
  • Entry into competitive programs depends heavily on attitude, behavior, and interpersonal skills from the first interaction, not just academics.

“Apprenticeship….is the very highest ROI that you could possibly find because the level of investment that you're putting in as an individual isn't as high as it would be with a four-year university.” – John Loyack

“The power of having job shadowing or work-based experience, just going on site and seeing what a job or career may actually look like, will go a long way.” – Andrew Gardner

About John Loyack and Andrew Gardner: John Loyack is the Vice President of Economic Development for the North Carolina Community College System, leading ApprenticeshipNC, BioNetwork, Customized Training, and the Small Business Center Network. He supports statewide workforce and business needs across 58 colleges and 100 counties and serves on the NC Apprenticeship Council and NC MEP Advisory Board.

Andrew Gardner is the Associate Vice President of Workforce Strategies for the North Carolina Community College System, leading workforce alignment, industry partnerships, and career-connected education. He previously led workforce programs at Montgomery Community College focused on employer training and access.

Episode References:

  • NCCareers: https://nccareers.org/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: THE CAREER IDENTIFICATION COMPASS: How To Be Certain Your 15 To 25 Year Old is On The Right Path to Launch With Confidence–Not Confusion: flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with John Loyack and Andrew Gardner:

John’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johncloyack/

Twitter: https://x.com/NCCommColleges

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nccommcolleges

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nccommunitycolleges/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

What if the biggest predictor of your child’s future success isn’t their grades, college, or intelligence, but how well they truly understand themselves?

In this solo episode, Lisa Marker-Robbins explores this counterintuitive idea, revealing that deep self-awareness is the foundation for long-term success. She unpacks what self-awareness actually looks like in real life and why so many young people and adults struggle to develop it.

Through practical examples and coaching insights, Lisa shows how misalignment between identity and decisions leads to frustration, stagnation, and career dissatisfaction. She ultimately offers a clear path for helping young people build clarity and confidence before making life-shaping choices.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

  • The role of self-awareness in long-term personal and career success
  • The disconnect between aspiration and authentic identity in decision-making
  • Common external pressures influencing young people’s career choices
  • Strategies for guiding young people toward clarity and aligned decisions

Key Takeaways:

  • Deep self-awareness is identified as the strongest predictor of long-term success
  • Self-aware individuals make consistently aligned and informed decisions based on how they are actually wired.
  • Many young people mistake interest, curiosity, or fascination for true ability, which leads them toward paths that they cannot sustain due to mismatched cognitive, emotional, or skill-based demands.
  • Without self-awareness, individuals tend to chase what looks impressive or is socially rewarded, which often results in dissatisfaction, career misalignment, and eventually feeling stuck in roles that do not fit them.
  • Developing self-awareness requires honest reflection, guided conversations, and structured tools like the Birkman personality assessment rather than keeping every possible path open without direction.

“Aspiration, without the awareness, is going to lead to misalignment.” – Lisa Marker-Robbins

Episode References:

  • Launch Career Clarity Course https://flourishcoachingco.com/course
  • Sample Birkman Report Available at: flourishcoachingco.com/birkman

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: THE CAREER IDENTIFICATION COMPASS: How To Be Certain Your 15 To 25 Year Old is On The Right Path to Launch With Confidence–Not Confusion: flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and President Hernandez discuss:

  • Early career integration in college education
  • Embedding real employer projects and simulations directly into classroom learning
  • Reimagining traditional general education with interdisciplinary, skills-based studio work
  • Combining structured pathways with built-in flexibility

Key Takeaways:

  • Starting in a career-focused major from day one allows students to gain relevant skills immediately, making them competitive for internships as early as their first year and enabling them to graduate with multiple real-world experiences already completed.
  • When students actively perform real tasks in class rather than only learning theory, they build confidence, accountability, and practical skills much faster, which directly impacts how prepared they feel to enter the workforce.
  • Employers are increasingly prioritizing demonstrated, applied skills and real-world experience over GPA alone, reflecting a shift highlighted in the conversation rather than a universal rule across all employers.
  • A flexible curriculum structure with built-in space for co-ops, internships, and exploration allows students to pursue opportunities like full-time work experiences or additional credentials without extending their time in college.

“Go out and try something. Don't just read about it. Go out and do it.” – Alex Hernandez

About Alex Hernandez: Alex Hernandez is the tenth president of Champlain College, a private independent college in Burlington, VT, renowned for its innovative approach to getting students Champlain Ready: Ready for work, Ready for life, Ready to make a difference.

Prior to Champlain, Alex was the Dean of the School of Continuing and Professional Studies and Vice Provost of Online Learning at the University of Virginia. He was also a leader in K-12 education, working as a teacher, administrator, and partner of a national foundation.

He is a fierce advocate for education opportunity, access, and innovation, and lives in Burlington, Vermont, with his wife Michelle and has twin sons in college.

Episode References:

  • Learn about Champlain College: https://www.champlain.edu/academics/learning-approach/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: THE CAREER IDENTIFICATION COMPASS: How To Be Certain Your 15 To 25 Year Old is On The Right Path to Launch With Confidence–Not Confusion: flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Alex:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/champlainedu/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/school/champlainedu/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChamplainEdu/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

There are more than 23,000 career credentials available today—so how do you know which ones are worth pursuing?

In this episode, Lisa Marker-Robbins breaks down how families and young professionals can cut through the noise using the Credential Value Index, a data tool created by the Burning Glass Institute that analyzes thousands of certifications across industries.

Lisa explains why credentials should never be chased randomly and how they can be used strategically to validate career fit, build skill capital, and accelerate career opportunity. She also shares seven essential questions to ask before investing time or money into any credential.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

  • The growing role of career credentials in building employability and skill capital
  • How data tools can help evaluate the real value of workplace certifications
  • Strategies for helping young people gain career clarity before investing in education
  • Using credentials as both career exploration tools and advancement accelerators

Key Takeaways:

  • The Credential Value Index, developed by the Burning Glass Institute, analyzes 23,000+ non-degree certifications from over 2,000 providers, giving users data on wage gains, job access, labor demand, top employers, and related roles so they can evaluate which skills actually improve career outcomes.
  • Credentials should not be pursued randomly; they should follow a career filter based on self-awareness and realistic career directions, because browsing thousands of credentials without direction can overwhelm people and lead to decision paralysis.
  • Strategic certifications can serve two different purposes: testing whether a career path truly fits by experiencing the skills involved, or strengthening an existing direction by adding skills that improve employability and advancement potential.
  • Before investing time or money in any certification program, individuals should evaluate factors like goals, skill relevance, labor market demand, transferability, cost in time/energy/money, and whether the credential would still move them forward even without a salary increase.

“Credentials are not about replacing degrees… they’re about signaling skills to employers.” – Lisa Marker-Robbins

Episode References:

  • Credential Value Index https://credentialvalueindex.org
  • #214 “You Can Be Anything”: Why This Advice Backfires with Your Young Person https://flourishcoachingco.com/214

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: THE CAREER IDENTIFICATION COMPASS: How To Be Certain Your 15 To 25 Year Old is On The Right Path to Launch With Confidence–Not Confusion: flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Dr. Sajita discuss:

  • Digital well-being in an increasingly screen-based and AI-driven world
  • The benefits and risks of artificial intelligence and digital tools for young people’s learning and development.
  • Parenting strategies for guiding children and teens toward healthier technology habits
  • Privacy, safety, and behavioral risks within the modern digital ecosystem and social media environment

Key Takeaways:

  • Digital well-being means using technology in ways that support mental and physical health, especially for young people.
  • The digital ecosystem includes many devices and apps, so focusing only on phones won’t solve issues.

  • Parents should focus on sleep, relationships, school, offline hobbies, and positive online learning, not just screen time.

  • Is my child physically healthy and getting enough sleep?

  • Are they connecting well socially with family and friends?

  • Are they engaged with school and achieving their goals?

  • Are they pursuing hobbies and interests beyond screens?

  • Are they having fun and learning when they use digital media?

  • Families should use AI as a thinking aid, protect personal information, and encourage teens to share less online.

“[Technology] can help your work productivity, but it can also doom your career and future if you're not careful.” – Dr. Sajita Setia

About Dr. Sajita Setia: Dr. Sajita Setia is a physician and evidence-based educator dedicated to helping families and schools raise resilient, balanced young people in a world of constant screens. As an expert in digital wellbeing and youth online safety, she transforms cutting-edge research into practical strategies for parents, preteens, and teens. Through evidence-based coaching, curriculum design, and community- and parent-centred education, Sajita equips the next generation to thrive in a connected world with balance and confidence.

Episode References:

  • American Academy of Pediatrics 2026 policy update referencing the “digital ecosystem.”: https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/157/2/e2025075320/206129/Digital-Ecosystems-Children-and-Adolescents-Policy
  • Meta’s Internal Research by Jonathan Haidt et. al.: https://metasinternalresearch.org/
  • Lisa’s LinkedIn Profile Builder and Guide: https://flourishcoachingco.com/linkedin

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: THE CAREER IDENTIFICATION COMPASS: How To Be Certain Your 15 To 25 Year Old is On The Right Path to Launch With Confidence–Not Confusion: flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Dr. Sajita:
Website: www.sajitasetia.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sajita-setia/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrSajitaSetia
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsajitasetia/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sajita.setia/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this continuation of her series unpacking common phrases we say to young people about careers, Lisa Marker-Robbins tackles the well-known advice, “Find a job you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life.” She explains how this inspirational soundbite, while poetic, creates unrealistic expectations about what work should feel like.

Drawing on research about grit and her experience supporting families through career decisions, Lisa reframes what sustainable career satisfaction actually looks like. This episode challenges adults to shift the narrative so young people are prepared not just for inspiration, but for the normal friction and growth that meaningful work requires.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

  • The unintended consequences of common career advice given to young people
  • The role of grit, resilience, and sustained effort in long-term career development
  • Managing expectations about job satisfaction and professional alignment
  • Reframing cultural narratives around passion, purpose, and meaningful work

Key Takeaways:

  • Telling young people they should never feel like they are working if they choose the right job creates unrealistic expectations and causes them to interpret normal fatigue, conflict, or difficulty as proof they made the wrong choice.
  • The 75 to 80 percent rule provides a healthier standard for alignment, meaning that if most of the work feels energizing and meaningful over time, the remaining portion represents normal trade-offs rather than failure.
  • It can take up to a full year to feel grounded and competent in a new role, so early discomfort is often part of the growth process and not a signal to quit.
  • Long-term fulfillment comes from committing to meaningful work through friction and challenge, because expecting some difficulty builds resilience, while expecting constant enjoyment leads to shame and job hopping.

“Work will always require effort. The goal is finding that the effort is worth it and it's meaningful.” – Lisa Marker-Robbins

Episode References:

  • #214 “You Can Be Anything”: Why This Advice Backfires with Your Young Person: https://flourishcoachingco.com/214
  • #215 Why “Follow Your Passion” Is Bad Career Advice—and What To Say Instead: https://flourishcoachingco.com/215
  • #216 Why “That Job Hasn’t Been Invented Yet” Can Keep Kids Stuck: https://flourishcoachingco.com/216
  • Angela Duckworth on grit: https://angeladuckworth.com/qa/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: THE CAREER IDENTIFICATION COMPASS: How To Be Certain Your 15 To 25 Year Old is On The Right Path to Launch With Confidence–Not Confusion: flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this solo episode, Lisa Marker-Robbins challenges one of the most well-intentioned but counterproductive phrases adults often say to young people: “The job you’ll end up doing hasn’t even been invented yet.” Drawing on her work with 15–25-year-olds and their families, Lisa explains why this advice can unintentionally create paralysis rather than progress.

She reframes the conversation around transferable skills, personal “through lines,” adaptability, and lifelong learning. Most importantly, she offers language shifts that replace vague reassurance with clarity, agency, and forward momentum.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

  • The unintended consequences of common career advice given to young people
  • How transferable skills provide stability in a rapidly evolving job market
  • Understanding personality wiring and “through lines” as anchors in career development for all ages
  • Shifting career conversations with your family from prediction and passivity to action and agency

Key Takeaways:

  • When young people hear “your job hasn’t been invented yet,” they often internalize that planning is pointless and effort can wait, which leads to disengagement, procrastination, over-research without follow-through, or even fight-flight-freeze responses instead of forward movement.
  • Even though job titles and roles evolve, the capability to do meaningful work compounds over time; the skills built in school, early jobs, and early decisions travel forward and remain relevant long after specific titles change.
  • Identifying lifelong personal “through lines”—what energizes or drains them, the types of problems they enjoy solving, preferred environments and teams, and values that matter—gives young people a stable internal compass even when external circumstances shift.
  • Career momentum is created through action, not prediction; making informed next steps rooted in present self-awareness builds traction and adaptability, whereas waiting for certainty or trying to forecast the future stalls progress.

“Momentum comes from action, not prediction.” – Lisa Marker-Robbins

Episode References:

  • 214 “You Can Be Anything”: Why This Advice Backfires with Your Young Person: https://flourishcoachingco.com/214

  • 215 Why “Follow Your Passion” Is Bad Career Advice—and What To Say Instead: https://flourishcoachingco.com/215

  • Credential Value Index from Burning Glass Institute: https://www.credentialvalueindex.org/
  • BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) Occupational Outlook Handbook: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: THE CAREER IDENTIFICATION COMPASS: How To Be Certain Your 15 To 25 Year Old is On The Right Path to Launch With Confidence–Not Confusion: flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this solo episode, Lisa Marker-Robbins continues her series unpacking well-meaning career advice that unintentionally backfires. Following her previous episode challenging the phrase “you can be anything,” Lisa now tackles another cultural staple: “follow your passion.”

She explains that this advice often creates pressure, paralysis, and self-doubt rather than motivation, and why passion is rarely the starting point for clarity. Instead, she offers a more grounded, process-driven path—one where competence builds confidence, and confidence can grow into genuine passion over time.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

  • The unintended consequences of well-meaning career advice
  • How confidence and passion actually develop over time
  • The difference between curiosity, competence, and career alignment
  • Reframing conversations to reduce pressure and increase clarity

Key Takeaways:

  • Telling young people to “follow your passion” often creates paralysis because it suggests there is one permanent, obvious calling they should already know, when in reality, clarity develops gradually through experimentation and skill building.
  • Passion is rarely the starting point. Instead, increasing competence builds internal confidence, confidence fuels enjoyment, and that enjoyment can eventually ignite genuine passion.
  • A passion does not have to become a career. While the average adult will spend an average of 95,000 hours working, many passions can and should live outside the workday in evenings, weekends, and vacations.
  • Better career conversations focus on identifying tasks and environments that bring energy, exploring what someone is curious enough about to improve at, and asking what they are willing to keep working on even when it feels hard, embracing the powerful word “yet” to normalize growth and long-term development.

“Confidence and possibly passion will be built through competence, not the other way around.” – Lisa Marker-Robbins

Episode References:

  • Episode 213, Confidence Blueprint: Setting Your Young Person Up for Success with Jennifer Gershberg: https://flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/213-confidence-blueprint-setting-your-young-person-up-for-success-with-jennifer-gershberg/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: THE CAREER IDENTIFICATION COMPASS: How To Be Certain Your 15 To 25 Year Old is On The Right Path to Launch With Confidence–Not Confusion: flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this solo episode, Lisa Marker-Robbins challenges one of the most common and well-intentioned phrases adults use with young people about their future: “You can be anything.” Drawing on years of career coaching experience and thousands of Birkman personality assessment results, she explains why this advice often increases pressure, cognitive overload, and paralysis rather than building confidence and taking action.

Lisa reframes future planning around alignment, limits, and energy rather than limitless possibilities. The episode kicks off a multi-part series focused on replacing well-meaning but harmful advice with language that actually helps young people move forward.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

  • The gap between intention and impact in how adults talk about futures and possibilities
  • Why unlimited possibilities can undermine motivation instead of creating confidence
  • How personal limits and energy patterns influence decision-making and forward movement
  • What supportive conversations look like when the goal is clarity rather than certainty

Key Takeaways:

  • Telling young people “you can be anything” creates cognitive and emotional overload, increasing fear of making the wrong choice and often causing shutdown, avoidance, or disengagement rather than action.
  • Everyone has real cognitive limits and distinct energy patterns, and acknowledging what drains versus energizes someone helps remove ill-fitting options and creates clarity instead of failure.
  • Progress comes from aligning choices with personal wiring—using frameworks such as get-tos vs. have-tos, energy awareness, and past task preferences—rather than keeping every option on the table.
  • When adults model their own imperfect decision-making, mistakes, and ruled-out paths, they normalize informed choices and give young people permission to move forward without needing certainty.

“Progress begins to come from alignment, not this unlimited choice.” – Lisa Marker-Robbins

Episode References:

  • Sample Birkman Report Available at: flourishcoachingco.com/birkman
  • Get the Flourish Weekly Newsletter: https://flourishcoachingco.com/newsletter

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: THE CAREER IDENTIFICATION COMPASS: How To Be Certain Your 15 To 25 Year Old is On The Right Path to Launch With Confidence–Not Confusion: flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Jennifer discuss:

  • How real confidence is built through skills rather than personality or bravado
  • The decline in foundational academic and communication skills
  • The relationship between anxiety, ambiguity, and skill development in young people
  • What parents can realistically do at home to help young people become capable, confident adults

Key Takeaways:

  • Test anxiety is usually caused by weak study methods and a lack of preparation, and it improves significantly when students learn how to study, manage time, and approach different types of exams effectively.
  • Confidence comes from knowing you can rely on yourself in uncomfortable situations, which is built through competence in studying, communication, decision-making, and follow-through, not reassurance or positive thinking.
  • Imposter syndrome should be normalized and reframed as a sign of growth and high achievement, especially when students are entering new environments like college, internships, or early careers.
  • Parents can actively coach confidence by helping their kids speak clearly and concisely, reduce filler words and rambling, use physical presence when communicating, and take action even when fear is present.

“New experiences are supposed to feel uncomfortable….because this is literally how growth occurs.” – Jennifer Gershberg

About Jennifer Gershberg: Jennifer Gershberg is a campus and keynote speaker, course creator, and former University of Maryland professor. Through her campus programs, keynotes, trainings, and online courses, she helps prospective and current college students build confidence and competence by teaching the fundamental skills needed for academic and professional success. While on the faculty at the University of Maryland, she earned multiple teaching awards, including the Allen J. Krowe Award for Teaching Excellence, and has been featured on podcasts such as Caviar Dreams and Tuna Fish Budget. Jennifer attended Cornell University and the George Washington University Law School. She is known for her deep commitment to student wellbeing and her being “nurturing but tough—exactly what students need.”

Episode References:

  • The Defining Decade by Meg Jay: https://www.amazon.com/Defining-Decade-Your-Twenties-Matter/dp/0446561754
  • Sample Birkman Report Available at: flourishcoachingco.com/birkman

  • 041 Nursing Program Admissions with Jon Rice: https://flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/041-nursing-program-admissions/

  • Learn more about Jennifer’s course, Welcome to College, at: https://flourishcoachingco.com/incoming

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: THE CAREER IDENTIFICATION COMPASS: How To Be Certain Your 15 To 25 Year Old is On The Right Path to Launch With Confidence–Not Confusion: flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Jennifer:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jgtalksorg/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jg.talks
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100087748141924
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-gershberg-99bb409b/
Website: https://www.jgtalks.org/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

The Defining Decade: Why Your Twenties Matter and How to Make the Most of Them Now

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Jeff discuss:

  • Why college prestige alone no longer guarantees strong early career outcomes — and what matters more instead
  • How internships, micro-credentials, and co-ops now function as proof of employability
  • How parental decision-making and assumptions about higher ed are shifting post-2008
  • Where higher education still falls short in delivering hands-on learning and the durable skills students need

Key Takeaways:

  • Since the 2008–2009 recession, UCLA data shows the primary reason for attending college flipped from “learning” to “getting a job,” shifting students toward business/STEM and prompting colleges like Denison and Wake Forest to invest in career centers and experiential learning. Families benefit from a career-first college planning approach.
  • Research with Burning Glass Institute shows skills + internships sharply reduce underemployment across every major, making internships the strongest hedge against post-grad drift. Students who wait will be at a disadvantage.
  • Co-op campuses (Cincinnati, Drexel, Northeastern, RIT) embed mandatory work experience, but students still need agency to secure roles, and early credentials can accelerate access to internships.
  • As AI reshapes the workforce, liberal arts colleges must intentionally layer durable skills and hands-on learning, with programs like Denison Edge illustrating how institutions can bridge academic learning with employer skill demands.

“[Liberal arts colleges] need to lean into the durable skills that will last a lot longer than the degree.” – Jeff Selingo

About Jeff Selingo: Jeff Selingo has written about colleges and universities for more than 25 years and is a New York Times bestselling author of four books. His latest, Dream School: Finding the College That’s Right for You (September 2025), draws on more than two years of research and a survey of some 3,000 parents to give families permission to think more broadly about what signals a “good” college and then the tools to discover their dream school. He is also the author of Who Gets In & Why: A Year Inside College Admissions, named one of the New York Times’s 100 Notable Books of the Year in 2020.

A regular contributor to The Atlantic, The New York Times, and The Wall Street Journal, Jeff is a special advisor to the president and professor of practice at Arizona State University. He writes the biweekly newsletter Next and co-hosts the podcast Future U. He lives near Washington, D.C., with his family.

Episode References:

  • Dream School, by Jeff Selingo: https://a.co/d/fiNRi1i

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: THE CAREER IDENTIFICATION COMPASS: How To Be Certain Your 15 To 25 Year Old is On The Right Path to Launch With Confidence–Not Confusion: flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Jeff:
Twitter: https://x.com/jselingo
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jselingo/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JeffSelingo/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffselingo/
Website: https://jeffselingo.com/
Books: https://jeffselingo.com/books

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

Lisa Marker-Robbins argues that course scheduling is more than fulfilling academic requirements — it’s a strategic signal of direction, fit, and readiness. Through her lens as a master career coach, she reframes learning as a lifelong tool for validation, confidence, and momentum.

In this episode, she walks high school students, college students, and graduates through how to use classes, credentials, and real-world experiences to stand out in both admissions and hiring. Her approach emphasizes intentional choices that lower anxiety and open opportunities at every stage of early adulthood.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

  • How course scheduling can signal direction in college, career, and life
  • The role of intentional learning during high school, college, and early adulthood
  • Using credentials, experiences, and course choices to build employable skills and a strong resume
  • Reframing education as lifelong, exploratory, and strategic rather than obligatory

Key Takeaways:

  • For High School Families (01:16): Intentional course selection can validate career interests or demonstrate fit to colleges/employers using tools like dual enrollment, industry credentials, and credit flex options.
  • For College Students (09:32): Students should protect space in their schedules to pursue real-world experiences (internships, research, projects) and short-course credentials (e.g., Coursera) that employers increasingly prioritize over second majors.
  • For Graduates Not In School (11:37): Clarity can be regained post-graduation by treating job postings as signals for what skills or credentials to pursue next, and by viewing learning as lifelong rather than tied to a classroom.
  • Universal Relevance (14:44): Scheduling choices—whether in high school, college, or adulthood—act as competitive career signals that lower anxiety, build momentum, and shape future options when done with intention.

“Getting unstuck is often going to start with learning something new.” – Lisa Marker-Robbins

Episode References:

  • 169 The Hidden Impact of College Major Selection on Admissions with Rick Clark https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/169

  • LinkedIn Guide https://flourishcoachingco.com/linkedin
  • Launch Career Clarity Course https://flourishcoachingco.com/course
  • Flourish Coaching Newsletter https://flourishcoachingco.com/newsletter
  • BYU Online High School https://is.ce2.byu.edu/#/
  • Coursera https://coursera.org

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: THE CAREER IDENTIFICATION COMPASS: How To Be Certain Your 15 To 25 Year Old is On The Right Path to Launch With Confidence–Not Confusion: flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

Lisa Marker Robbins has spent decades helping young people navigate the messy space between high school and career, and she’s seen that landscape shift. College still matters, but alignment matters more than ever—and families increasingly want a steady strategy, not just more information.

In this episode, Lisa makes the case for a career-first approach and shows how clarity can reduce pressure, calm households, and open more meaningful pathways. Her practical insights explain why diverse career options are on the rise and why community support matters now more than ever.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

  • Why College and Career Clarity originally focused on college, and what prompted a thoughtful shift toward career fit
  • How “college capable” does not always mean “college aligned” and why that distinction matters more than ever
  • What it means to begin with the end in mind by leading with career fit instead of default pathways
  • How focusing on fit and alignment reduces pressure and emotional overwhelm for families

Key Takeaways:

  • Many college-capable teens are opting for alternative paths because college no longer guarantees alignment or meaningful career fit.
  • Reverse-engineering career fit before choosing a pathway reduces emotional pressure for families and improves long-term outcomes.
  • Post-COVID families and schools increasingly seek structure without pressure, honest conversations, and community-based support rather than independent decision-making.
  • Lisa plans to introduce more solo episodes, shorter formats, and ongoing touchpoints so listeners can engage more personally, gain clarity at their own pace, and feel supported rather than isolated during a challenging season for teens and young adults.

“College does still matter, but see, here's what I am seeing: a growing number of families within our community, that ability, college ability, college aptitude, doesn't equal alignment.” – Lisa Marker-Robbins

Episode References:

  • Is a College Degree Worth It?: https://www.wsj.com/opinion/is-a-college-degree-worth-it-f7753b32
  • Dream School: Finding the College That's Right for You by Jeffrey Selingo: https://www.amazon.com/Dream-School-Finding-College-Thats/dp/1668056208
  • Join the newsletter to get weekly clarity tools, insights, and family conversation prompts straight to your inbox: flourishcoachingco.com/newsletter

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

None

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and JJ discuss:

  • Rethinking post-high school pathways and expanding what counts as a successful career beyond the traditional four-year college path
  • The role of curiosity, exposure, and hands-on experiences in meaningful career exploration
  • The growing need for skilled and technical workers across multiple industries
  • Supporting young people in finding aligned career paths without stigma or judgment

Key Takeaways:

  • Parents and educators can use the same exploration tactics typically used for college-bound students, such as campus visits, informational interviews, and employer outreach, to explore skilled careers through community colleges, apprenticeships, unions, and employer-led training programs.
  • Many high-demand, high-paying careers in construction, manufacturing, supply chain, energy, transportation, facilities operations, and media production do not require a four-year degree yet still offer advancement, entrepreneurship, and long-term stability.
  • Early and repeated exposure starting in elementary and middle school helps normalize skilled careers by showing how interests like sports, music, entertainment, and technology rely on behind-the-scenes technical and trade-based roles.
  • Focusing first on developing a concrete skill, such as welding, carpentry, sound engineering, plumbing, or video production, allows careers to evolve organically into leadership roles, business ownership, storytelling, or adjacent industries over time.

“Develop the skill and then be open to where it takes you.” – JJ Owen

About JJ Owen: JJ Owen is the Executive Director of the Skilled Careers Coalition, leading efforts to reframe skilled trades as high-purpose, high-pay careers and connect Gen Z to construction, manufacturing, and technical fields. A strategist and coalition builder, he has focused on field building, systems change, and grassroots engagement. At the Movember Foundation, he grew the U.S. movement to over one million participants and $130M raised. He later held senior partnership roles at Warner Bros. Discovery and AT&T, helping create The Achievery, a media-backed education platform. Raised in California, he now lives in Orange with his wife, two daughters, and Labradors Calvin and Hobbes.

Episode References:

  • Sample Birkman Report Available at: flourishcoachingco.com/birkman

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with JJ:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skillsjam/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3rss-C99wJSN6JUtPA8A9A/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skilled-careers-coalition/ & https://www.linkedin.com/in/jjowen4/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theskillsjam

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Annie discuss:

  • Career planning when chronic health conditions or physical disabilities affect daily functioning
  • Self-advocacy and accommodations across education, training, and employment
  • Aligning career choices with realistic capacity and long-term sustainability
  • Using real-world experiences and conversations to validate career fit

Key Takeaways:

  • College provides a structured environment where students can learn to articulate how their condition affects them, practice requesting accommodations, and build confidence navigating formal systems they will later encounter in the workplace.
  • Accommodations support access but do not eliminate essential job functions, making it critical to assess whether the physical, cognitive, and stamina demands of a role can be met consistently over time.
  • Hands-on validation through internships, clinicals, job shadows, and informational interviews reveals the lived reality of a job in ways that academic requirements alone cannot.
  • Sustainable career planning requires honest conversations about energy limits, recovery time, and quality of life, rather than defaulting to paths that are technically possible but personally draining.

“You have to be comfortable talking about your condition and your needs.” – Annie Tulkin

About Annie Tulkin: Annie Tulkin is the CEO and Founder of Accessible College, as well as an educator, author, and public speaker. She is an expert in college preparation and transition for students with physical disabilities and health conditions, and has worked in the disability field for her entire professional career. She holds degrees from DePaul University and the University of Wisconsin–Madison, was a Peace Corps Volunteer and Fulbright Fellow in Mongolia, and resides in Silver Spring, MD, with her husband and daughter.

Episode References:

  • Job Accommodation Network (JAN): https://askjan.org/
  • Diabetes Link (formerly College Diabetes Network): https://thediabeteslink.org/
  • Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation: https://www.christopherreeve.org/

  • 099 Navigating College with Physical Disabilities and Health Conditions with Annie Tulkin: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/099-navigating-college-with-physical-disabilities-and-health-conditions-with-annie-tulkin/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Annie:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/accessiblecollege/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/accessiblecollege/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annie-tulkin-3b66b719/
Website: https://accessiblecollege.com/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Rick discuss:

  • How a student’s choice of future intended major impacts their college admissions chances
  • The role of holistic review in determining “Fit To Major” (FTM)
  • The challenges students face when trying to change majors after admission
  • Why flexibility is essential in the college application process

Key Takeaways:

  • Colleges often evaluate whether a student’s academic choices and extracurricular activities align with their intended major, so applying without evidence of interest in that field can weaken an application, even at schools that do not directly admit by major.
  • Some universities, particularly for highly competitive majors like computer science and business, have strict policies that prevent or limit students from switching into these programs after enrollment, making initial major selection a critical decision.
  • Admissions officers look for patterns of demonstrated interest in their major, expecting engineering applicants to take advanced math and science courses or business applicants to show entrepreneurial involvement, which helps determine if a student is truly prepared for their chosen major.
  • Students who remain open to alternative entry pathways—such as summer admissions, starting at a different campus, or transferring later—increase their chances of reaching their academic and career goals, even if they don’t initially get into their first-choice program.

“The more kids can put themselves in a position where they have choices and options, the better off they’re going to be.” – Rick Clark

About Rick Clark: Rick Clark is Georgia Tech’s inaugural Executive Director for Strategic Student Access, leading efforts to expand enrollment, access, and affordability. Previously, he spent 15 years as AVP and Executive Director of Undergraduate Admission, strengthening Tech’s brand, academic profile, and enrollment. He serves on national councils, including NACAC’s Committee on Leadership in College Admission, and speaks at U.S. embassies on higher education. Rick is the creator of the GT Admissions blog, co-author of The Truth About College Admission, and co-host of its podcast. A native of Atlanta, he holds degrees from UNC-Chapel Hill and Georgia State and has worked at Georgia State, The McCallie School, and Wake Forest University.

Episode References:
• Blueprint to Understanding Admissions by Major: https://flourishcoachingco.com/majors
• The Truth about College Admission by Brennan Barnard & Rick Clark: https://www.amazon.com/Truth-about-College-Admission-Together/dp/142143637X
• The College Admissions Process Podcast by John Durante: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-college-admissions-process-podcast/id1608682810

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Rick:
Twitter: https://x.com/Clark2College
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/raclarkatl/
The Truth about College Admission Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-truth-about-college-admission/id1649349413

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

The Truth about College Admission: A Family Guide to Getting In and Staying Together

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Brian discuss:

  • Strategies for maximizing college scholarships given by the institutions
  • The difference in merit vs. need-based financial aid
  • The role of GPA and standardized testing, ACT, and SAT, in scholarship awards
  • Colleges with merit scholarship grids where students can know the amount they can earn for good grades and scores
  • Transparency of college financial aid policies

Key Takeaways:

  • Merit aid is often more predictable than need-based aid because many colleges offer fixed scholarships based on GPA and ACT and SAT scores, making it easier to estimate college costs.
  • Skipping standardized tests can cost students thousands in scholarships, as many schools that are “test-optional” for admission still require test scores for merit aid or reduce the award if applying test-optional.
  • At some universities, it is possible to calculate the number of additional correct answers on the ACT that a student needs to raise their merit aid award, making test prep a highly valuable investment.
  • Over 90% of scholarship money comes directly from colleges rather than private sources, meaning that researching a school's financial aid policies is more effective than chasing small external scholarships.

“When the airplane is going down, you put the mask on yourself first—you first, your kids second. The merit aid from the school is the 'putting your mask on yourself'… after that, if a kid has free time, definitely apply to some of the outside scholarships.” – Brian Eufinger

About Brian Eufinger: Brian Eufinger is the President of Atlanta-based Edison Prep and has tutored over 14,000 students for a combined 35,000+ hours on the SAT, PSAT, and ACT over the past two decades.

Episode References:

  • Merit Aid Grids: https://meritaidgrids.com/
  • Student Email Template: How to Get Clear Answers About College Merit Aid https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/merit

  • 042 Will grade inflation hurt your teen with Brian Eufinger? https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/042

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Brian Eufinger:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/edisonpreptutoring/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/edisonprep

Website: https://www.edisonprep.com/

Email: brian@edisonprep.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eufinger/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EdisonPrepTutoring

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Amy discuss:

  • Identifying personality traits, interests, and work styles for career exploration
  • Factors influencing long-term career satisfaction and professional fulfillment
  • The research and validation behind data-driven career assessments
  • The relationship between career clarity, education choices, and financial outcomes

Key Takeaways:

  • The Birkman Assessment identifies career matches by analyzing multiple personality dimensions—not just interests but also work styles and environmental needs—against a database of professionals who have remained satisfied in their roles for at least seven years.
  • Unlike quick career quizzes, Birkman undergoes rigorous psychometric validation every 10 years to ensure its results remain reliable and predictive, distinguishing it from assessments that lack scientific backing.
  • Low career matches do not mean a job is impossible; they indicate potential challenges, such as a workplace culture mismatch or a need for unique approaches to succeed, which may require further research through job shadowing, informational interviews, or skill development.
  • Career clarity minimizes costly education mistakes by helping students avoid unnecessary degree changes or career pivots, ensuring that the time, money, and effort invested in college align with long-term satisfaction and job retention.

“With Birkman, we're able to say, ‘Hey, even if you're good at it, that doesn't mean you're interested in it.’ Interest with Birkman means it is fulfilling, motivating, and energizing.” – Amy Shepley

About Amy Shepley: Amy Shepley, granddaughter of Dr. Roger W. Birkman and daughter of Sharon Birkman, has over 20 years of experience in corporate teams and organizational behavior.

Episode References:

  • Episode 43: College Major Identification with the Birkman Method with Sharon Birkman: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/043-college-major-identification-with-the-birkman-method/
  • O*NET OnLine: https://www.onetonline.org/
  • BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) Occupational Outlook Handbook: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/
  • SOC (Standard Occupational Classification) System: https://www.bls.gov/soc/
  • Sample Birkman Report Available at: flourishcoachingco.com/birkman

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Amy:Website: http://birkman.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amyshepley/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Jackie discuss:

  • How personal storytelling shapes identity and confidence in young people
  • The role of a signature talk in strengthening communication and self-awareness
  • Using life experiences to build clarity and purpose
  • The way real-life opportunities and service experiences help youth grow passions and purpose

Key Takeaways:

  • Young people learn their core values and purpose by identifying the message they would share if given five minutes to speak to the world, strengthening their sense of worth and supporting mental health.
  • A “signature talk” begins with exploring personal successes and failures, turning those experiences into a library of stories that can be used in interviews, essays, and meaningful conversations.
  • Preparing a signature message teaches youth to identify a problem they deeply relate to, explain how they solved it, and offer insights that could help others—building confidence, leadership, and independence.
  • Colleges increasingly value authentic, self-aware applicants who demonstrate impact and growth, and storytelling practice helps teens articulate purpose and meaningful experiences more effectively.

“When they begin to understand what life's lessons have taught them and how it's shaped them to who and why they are, everything changes for them.” – Jackie Bailey

About Jackie Bailey: Jackie Bailey, The International Conversation Coach, helps clients speak with significance, triumph over trauma, and champion challenges. Founder of The Speak Feed Lead Project, she’s coached hundreds to share their stories on major stages.

Episode References:

  • Subscribe to Lisa’s newsletter for weekly tips: flourishcoachingco.com/newsletter
  • Download a Sample Birkman Report: https://flourishcoachingco.com/birkman
  • TEDx program: https://www.ted.com/about/programs-initiatives/tedx-program

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).flourishcoachingco.com/video Connect with Jackie:Website: http://www.jackiebailey360.com/
Podcast: In the Groove with Todd and Jackie: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/in-the-groove-with-todd-and-jackie/id1830625612
Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Jackie-Bailey/author/B0BSRGSM6K
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackie-bailey-4532287/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Andrea discuss:

  • Navigating family dynamics when college students return home for holidays and extended breaks
  • Balancing student independence with household expectations during time at home
  • Communicating effectively with teens and college students to reduce conflict around schedules, curfews, and responsibilities
  • Supporting student identity development and deeper conversations during the transition home

Key Takeaways:

  • Parents should set expectations early—before the student comes home—about rest needs, schedules, and non-negotiable family commitments.
  • Curfew conversations work best when approached collaboratively, using “horizontal parenting” to negotiate reasonable times and communication.
  • Students may return with new beliefs, identities, and peer relationships, so families should create space for deeper conversations and respond with curiosity rather than judgment.
  • Parents should avoid tasks like laundry or over-caretaking, as these can unintentionally undermine the student’s developing independence.

“Colleges are ready to welcome messy, unfinished, unbaked, totally underbaked students. And those first couple of years are about figuring out who they are.” – Andrea Malkin Brenner

About Andrea Malkin Brenner: Dr. Andrea Malkin Brenner is the President of AMBrenner, LLC and Founder of the Talking College™ brand, a speaker and college transition educator with 25 years as a “college insider.”

Episode References:

  • Use Andrea’s Talking College Cards to spark meaningful family conversations about college transitions: https://www.ambrenner.com/shop
  • Subscribe to Lisa’s newsletter for weekly tips to connect with your teen or young adult: flourishcoachingco.com/newsletter

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Andrea:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andreamalkinbrenner/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ambrennerllc

Website: https://www.ambrenner.com/ & https://talkingcollege.com/

Book: How to College: What to Know Before You Go (and When You're There) by Andrea Malkin Brenner and Lara Hope Schwartz: https://www.amazon.com/How-College-Before-Youre-There/dp/1250225183

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-malkin-brenner-phd-135b43178

Email: andreamalkinbrenner@gmail.com

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

How to College: What to Know Before You Go (and When You're There)

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Kami discuss:

  • How curiosity shapes the development of lifelong learners who can adapt and grow over time
  • Why box-checking habits weaken authentic engagement with learning
  • What project-based learning offers as a bridge between interests and academics
  • The role family culture plays in nurturing natural curiosity and supporting ongoing personal growth

Key Takeaways:

  • Box-checking driven by grades and pressure drains curiosity and leaves young people unprepared for real college, career, and life demands.
  • Real-world projects like building a skate park or creating community signage reveal how project-based learning blends civic knowledge, physics, planning, and passion.
  • Curiosity grows at home through natural conversations that connect everyday life, current events, and reading into meaningful learning.
  • A teen’s lost love of learning often shows up as ongoing frustration or disengagement whenever school is mentioned.

“We have to change the messages that we're sending, and the message of lifelong learning is that learning happens everywhere, all the time.” – Kami Wanous

Episode References:

  • Sample Birkman Report
  • Pails by Chris Brady
  • The Truth About College Admission Workbook

  • 169 The Hidden Impact of College Major Selection on Admissions with Rick Clark

  • Check your family’s learning culture in minutes — take Kami’s Love of Learning Launch Pad quiz
  • Take the free Career Planning Readiness Quiz

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Kami:

Website: https://www.thefreedomscholar.com/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/TheFreedomScholar & https://www.facebook.com/groups/216184786279733

IG: https://www.instagram.com/thefreedomscholar

YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtJpXKtndYS9rrP98KcvDEw

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kami-wanous-14117723a

Homeschool Success: https://www.thefreedomscholar.com/podcast

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

Pails: 20 Years from Now, What Will You Wish You Had Done Today?

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Ethan discuss:

  • Managing setbacks and academic struggles in demanding college programs
  • The importance of resilience, networking, and real-world experience in career development
  • How communication and soft skills enhance technical education and employability
  • Navigating college, internships, and professional growth with persistence and adaptability

Key Takeaways:

  • When traditional learning methods don’t meet your needs, explore alternative or online options—Ethan improved his calculus mastery by finding a better-fit online course structure and learning tools.
  • Consistent networking, maintaining an updated LinkedIn, and initiating connections early can turn future opportunities into incoming offers rather than uphill pursuits.
  • Getting involved in professional or student organizations and taking on leadership or mentoring roles provides real-world experience and the confidence employers value.
  • Communicating clearly, asking for help, and staying persistent after failure are core habits that separate long-term achievers from those who stall after a single obstacle.

“You just have to keep pushing and saying, 'I want it. I’m going to get it.'” – Ethan Zellner

About Ethan Zellner: Ethan Zellner is an Honors Student-Athlete at Bradley University pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. A driven and hands-on learner, he currently serves as the 2025–2026 Captain of the ASCE Concrete Canoe Team, where he leads design and materials testing for national competitions. Ethan has gained professional experience as a Civil Engineering Intern at WSP, contributing to EV charging site development and permitting. Known for his persistence, problem-solving mindset, and strong communication skills, Ethan embodies the balance of technical excellence, teamwork, and resilience that defines the next generation of engineers.

Episode References:

  • 027 Differences between Engineering & Engineering Technology Majors & Jobs

  • Find your direction with the Launch Career Clarity Course at FlourishCoachingCo.com/course.

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

Connect with Ethan:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ethan-zellner/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

Two hundred episodes strong—and this celebration goes deeper than a milestone. Lisa Marker-Robbins is joined by Vicki Weisbrod and Kayla Lane for an honest, energizing conversation about what’s really holding young people back and how you can help them move forward with clarity and confidence. You’ll leave inspired, recharged, and ready to guide the next generation toward purpose and possibility.

In this episode, Lisa, Vicki, and Kayla discuss:

  • The emotional push and pull between parents and young people during the launch years
  • The growing confidence gap in professional communication and real-world readiness
  • Shifting career pathways and the increasing value of non-traditional education routes
  • Fostering resilience, self-awareness, and intentional progress toward independence

Key Takeaways:

  • Parents’ stress often mirrors their kids’ uncertainty, and recognizing that shared overwhelm helps both sides find calm and momentum.
  • Modeling confident communication in small ways—like outreach, networking, and follow-up—helps young people take ownership without parents taking over.
  • Many students are now making informed choices to pursue trades, alternative training, or intentional pauses, showing that success comes in many forms beyond college.
  • Building self-awareness early and giving young people space to make mistakes fosters genuine confidence, resilience, and long-term independence.

“There’s just not as much resilience with young people, and they fear that that ‘no’ is the end-all be-all.” – Vicki Weisbrod

“It’s amazing how quickly the shift happens whenever you finally understand yourself.” – Kayla Lane

About our Guests:

  • Vicki Weisbrod is a Flourish Coaching Career Coach and veteran school counselor who built Bishop Fenwick’s career advising program from the ground up, pioneering the use of the Birkman assessment to enhance career and college readiness.
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-weisbrod-640b31131/
  • Kayla Lane is the Executive Assistant and Client Support at Flourish Coaching, where she pairs her healthcare background with strong organizational and client support skills to guide families through their college and career journey.
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayla-lane-362b7014b/

Episode References:

  • The Defining Decade by Meg Jay: https://www.amazon.com/Defining-Decade-Your-Twenties-Matter/dp/0446561754’
  • Ep#196 5 Must-Know Hiring Trends & How They Impact Your Student with Christine Rigby-Hall: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/196-5-must-know-hiring-trends-how-they-impact-your-student-with-christine-rigby-hall/
  • Learn how to help your teen move from uncertain to unstoppable at

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

The Defining Decade: Why Your Twenties Matter and How to Make the Most of Them Now

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Stephen discuss:

  • How to turn a passion for sports into a career off the field
  • Building connections that open doors and gain experiences through sports internships
  • What roles are in high demand in the sports and entertainment ecosystem
  • Balancing passion, education, and hustle

Key Takeaways:

  • Careers in sports extend far past the playing field, including roles in marketing, analytics, media, and sponsorships. Exploring these options early helps uncover where passion and talent meet.
  • Networking remains the most powerful tool in the sports industry. Relationships, mentorships, and proactive outreach often lead to opportunities more effectively than cold applications.
  • Real-world exposure sharpens direction and builds credibility. Internships in high school or college, whether loved or disliked, shape clearer career decisions later on.
  • A well-rounded education supports success, but determination and experience matter most. Aligning values with career goals ensures long-term fulfillment in this dynamic field.
  • There are more entry points at agencies working on brand partnerships, sponsorships, and influencer deals than at leagues and teams.

“The three most important words in sports: Relationships. Relationships. Relationships.” – Stephen Master

About Stephen Master: Professor Stephen Master has over 25 years of leadership experience in sports marketing and media. He has taught at NYU since 2004, offering courses on Sports Sponsorship, Media, and the Business of Sports Betting. He founded the Sports Biz Boot Camp, a college-prep program introducing high school students to the business of sports, and co-founded Amaze Media Labs, a podcast company producing shows for brands like DraftKings, BetMGM, Ford, and Facebook.

As head of Master Media Advisors, he supports startups and advises investors in sports, entertainment, and gaming. Previously, he led Nielsen’s Global Sports Group, co-founded its eSports practice, and launched the FANALYTICS platform—featured in major outlets like The New York Times, ESPN, and Bloomberg. Earlier in his career, he held leadership roles at the NFL, Octagon, and NBA. Stephen earned his B.A. from the University of Michigan and his MBA from Northwestern.

Episode References:

  • 169 The Hidden Impact of College Major Selection on Admissions with Rick Clark

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Stephen:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-master-95957712/
Website: https://www.stern.nyu.edu/faculty/bio/stephen-master

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa, Dave, and Mike discuss:

  • How career direction and college major alignment influence scholarship success
  • The role of personal narrative and authenticity in admissions and financial aid
  • Strategies for early scholarship searching and intentional college preparation
  • How real-world experiences and self-awareness shape stronger college and scholarship applications

Key Takeaways:

  • When applying for scholarships, students with a clear personal narrative tied to their future major consistently outperform those who list achievements without direction.
  • Most universities factor “fit to major” (FTM) into admissions and aid decisions, with some high-demand majors (like nursing or computer science) closed to later transfers.
  • Starting early—in both scholarship applications and career exploration—reduces stress, expands opportunities, and allows time for authentic experiences that strengthen applications.
  • Real-world experiences, like internships or organizing community projects, not only clarify interests but also provide concrete material for compelling essays and scholarship submissions.

“Students that I’ve worked with, even when they’re applying to general scholarships, are still having success by having that personal narrative that relates to their future college major.” – Dave Peterson

“Authenticity should inform every aspect of the admissions process.” – Mike Bergin

About our Guests:
Dave Peterson is the founder of Scholarship GPS, a leading scholarship strategist.

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • Email: dave@nodebtcollege.com
  • Podcast

Mike Bergin is the founder of Chariot Learning, an ACT Certified Educator, and co-host of the Tests and the Rest podcast.

  • Website
  • LinkedIn
  • Podcast

Episode References:

  • Download a Sample Birkman Report
  • The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey
  • Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) form
  • Lisa’s Launch Career Clarity online course

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Anita discuss:

  • The growing trend of students choosing business as a “default” or undecided major
  • The value of real-world work experiences for high school and college students exploring business
  • What competitive business school admissions officers truly look for beyond academics
  • How reflection, course choices, and extracurriculars shape clarity and college readiness for business majors

Key Takeaways:

  • Students should pursue any kind of job or small business experience—from babysitting to retail—to build basic professional and business skills early.
  • Reflection on experiences is essential for college essays and interviews; students who articulate what they learned stand out more than those who list achievements.
  • Highly selective programs expect applicants to demonstrate problem-solving and awareness of real-world, local business issues, not just academic excellence.
  • Choosing challenging coursework like Calculus and exploring available business electives in high school can strengthen both preparedness and application competitiveness.

“What I see from a lot of students is that what helps them get away from being undecided is actually those real-world experiences, whether it's in the summer or after school.” – Anita Doddi

About Anita Doddi: Anita has spent her career helping students get where they’re trying to go, beginning with her early days as an academic adviser at the University of Chicago. She’s guided hundreds of students through admissions, with many accepted to top universities, including the University of Michigan, Cornell, UPenn, Columbia, and all the UC schools.

Episode References:

  • Shoe Dog by Phil Knight: https://www.amazon.com/Shoe-Dog-Memoir-Creator-Nike-ebook/dp/B0176M1A44
  • Explore the Flourish Coaching “Majors” Resource to access the spreadsheet, sample email, and video guide at flourishcoachingco.com/majors

  • 185 From “Little Jobs” to Big Wins: Internship Strategies That Work with Ramon Santillan: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/185-from-little-jobs-to-big-wins-internship-strategies-that-work-with-ramon-santillan/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Anita:
Website: https://collegewise.com/counselors/anita-doddi

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anita-doddi-26949062/

Email: anitag@collegewise.com

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

Shoe Dog

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Christine discuss:

  • Shifting hiring timelines and employer decision-making in today’s job market
  • Growing importance of skills-based hiring and micro-internships
  • Influence of artificial intelligence on entry-level roles and required skills
  • Continued power of networking and accessing the hidden job market

Key Takeaways:

  • The average job search now takes three to six months, as companies add more interview rounds and assessments before extending offers.
  • Skills-first hiring means candidates should highlight real-world experiences—like micro-internships, portfolios, and certifications—not just degrees.
  • AI is reshaping entry-level work, with 78% of hiring managers expecting AI-driven layoffs, but it is also creating new roles in data analysis and AI integration; learners should take AI courses (free or paid) and demonstrate use cases in portfolios.
  • Over 70% of jobs are never posted publicly, making networking and referrals through LinkedIn or family connections essential to finding opportunities.

“Show, don’t tell, and proof beats promises.” – Christine Rigby-Hall

About Christine Rigby-Hall: Christine Rigby-Hall is the founder of GradLanding, a career coaching practice that helps college students and early career professionals secure internships and launch into the job market with confidence.

Christine also partners closely with parents, helping them understand the hiring landscape and how to support their student without adding pressure. Her approach blends practical strategies with encouragement, giving young professionals the skills and confidence to stand out in a competitive market.

She holds a Master’s in Counseling from Springfield College and a Coaching Certification from Columbia University.

Episode References:

  • Build a standout LinkedIn profile that gets noticed—grab your free LinkedIn Profile Builder at flourishcoachingco.com/LinkedIn

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Christine:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gradlanding/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GradLanding

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/GradLanding/100095337640629/

Website: https://www.gradlanding.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinemsnyder & https://www.linkedin.com/company/gradlanding/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Brooke discuss:

  • The role of modern manners in building confidence and career readiness
  • How social, physical, and relationship etiquette shape professional connections
  • Strategies for networking, job shadows, and informational interviews
  • The influence of parents, mentors, and micro-habits in developing these skills

Key Takeaways:

  • Students should use simple conversation techniques—like making an observation and asking a question, or “throwing the ball back”—to create natural, balanced dialogue.
  • First impressions matter: attire, language, and physical manners (handshake, eye contact, putting away your phone, appropriate clothing) often determine how seriously others take you.
  • Adults are more likely to grant favors and mentorship opportunities to teens and young adults than older people, making this the ideal stage of life to ask for informational interviews, job shadows, or introductions.
  • Parents and mentors should approach teaching manners with a growth mindset, praising progress, modeling skills, and helping young people practice consistently until they feel natural.

“Physical manners can go a long way, and oftentimes they’re not noticed until they’re not done.” – Brooke Romney

About Brooke Romney: Brooke Romney is a writer, speaker, and community builder who is committed to sharing real life with a hopeful twist.

She is the best-selling author of four books: 52 Modern Manners for Today's Teens, Volumes 1 and 2, 52 Modern Manners for Kids, and I Like Me Anyway: Embracing Imperfection, Connection, and Christ.

She recently launched a new game, Do You Even Know Me?, to help families connect and have fun together.

Meaningful connection with family, friends, strangers, and God is where she finds purpose and joy.

Episode References:

  • Grab the free LinkedIn Profile Guide at flourishcoachingco.com/linkedin to help your student create a standout profile and start building their network with confidence.

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Brooke:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brookeromneywrites/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brooke-romney-9724a2100/
Website: https://brookeromney.com/welcome/

Shopify: https://082dc6.myshopify.com/

Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Brooke-Romney/author/B08L8WQN6C

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa, Dr. Gangelhoff, Dr. Alaina, and Melissa discuss:

  • Shifts in the music industry and its evolving future
  • Educational pathways for aspiring musicians
  • Building independence, resilience, and clarity for young creatives
  • Family roles and perspectives in supporting artistic career choices

Key Takeaways:

  • Parents’ fears often stem from only imagining extremes—either starving artists or Grammy winners—yet most successful musicians build stable, thriving lives between those two points.
  • Gap years can be powerful when structured with clear goals and intentionality, but they risk becoming wasted time if the expectations of the student and their parent aren’t aligned.
  • Modern musicians must learn to independently create, release, network, and generate income streams before labels or gatekeepers will take notice.
  • Many college music programs lag behind industry realities, leaving students to seek entrepreneurial, production, and tech skills elsewhere to stay competitive.

“The thing that is always going to be in demand is creativity, interpretation, and emotion, and AI can't replace all of that, and artists have all of those things.” – Dr. Christine Gangelhoff “Sometimes the parents’ reason for thinking about a gap year, or the child’s reason for bringing it up, may not be aligned, and that’s when you get that messy kind of wasted year.” – Dr. Alaina Johnson “The more we train our young adults and our young musicians to be entrepreneurial, creative problem solvers, the better they will be in this ever-changing industry.” – Melissa Mulligan

About our Guests:

  • Dr. Christine Gangelhoff
    • Website: https://mysoundpath.com/
    • LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/christine-gangelhoff-4b89b324
  • Dr. Alaina Johnson
    • Website: https://parentingtalent.com/
  • Melissa Mulligan
    • Website: https://www.mastermindroad.com/
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-mulligan-3ab018142/

Episode References:

  • How to Raise an Adult by Julie Lythcott-Haims

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

How to Raise an Adult: Break Free of the Overparenting Trap and Prepare Your Kid for Success

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Ilana discuss:

  • Mother-daughter dynamics in shaping career confidence and identity
  • The unconscious transmission of attitudes about work, relationships, and self-worth
  • Navigating the tension between supporting and controlling children’s career paths
  • The role of self-awareness and open conversation in healthy career development

Key Takeaways:

  • Daughters absorb far more from how mothers navigate work, relationships, and confidence than from the advice they are given outright.
  • Holding too tightly to a fixed idea of who a daughter should become can quietly undermine her ability to build true career confidence.
  • Paying attention to the language you use about your job and your life helps prevent unintentional patterns of negativity or self-doubt from passing on to your children.
  • Sharing the full, unpolished story of your own career choices—including pivots, regrets, and proud moments—gives your child permission to make different decisions without guilt.

“The real trick is for daughters and for us to recognize our own strengths and weaknesses and separate ourselves enough from mom that we could see ourselves.” – Ilana Levitt

Episode References:

  • Download a Sample Birkman Report: https://flourishcoachingco.com/birkman
  • Sample The Seven Stories Exercise: https://careercenter.lehigh.edu/sites/careercenter.lehigh.edu/files/Seven%20Stories%20Exercise.pdf
  • New York Times: 25 Questions to Bring You Closer to Your Mom: https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2025/05/09/well/mothers-day-questions.html

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Ilana:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatsmomthebook/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatsmomthebook/
Book: What's Mom Still Got To Do With It?: https://www.whatsmomthebook.com/
Take the quick quiz to find out which daughter type from What’s Mom Still Got To Do With It? fits you best!LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ilanatolpinlevitt/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Dave discuss:

  • Strategies for applying to scholarships throughout all four years of high school
  • Building and refining a personal narrative that connects past experiences to future goals
  • The role of family involvement and culture in long-term scholarship success
  • National, local, and organizational scholarship opportunities are available at different grade levels

Key Takeaways:

  • Students should begin applying for scholarships as early as freshman year, even if it’s only one every other month, to gain experience and confidence.
  • Juniors should focus on refining their personal narrative while taking advantage of exclusive, high-value scholarships that become available only in 11th grade.
  • Seniors benefit from applying to both large national scholarships and smaller local ones, since the practice alone increases their success rate.
  • Families should create a culture of consistent scholarship preparation by keeping resumes, LinkedIn profiles, and application databases updated after milestones.

“Students with the strongest personal narrative won the most scholarships… the students whose parents were involved in the process also won more scholarships.” – Dave Peterson

Episode References:

  • 128 Winning College Scholarships: Expert Tips with Dave The Scholarship Coach

  • 161 Boost Your Teen’s Personal Narrative Before Applications with Dave Peterson

  • 169 The Hidden Impact of College Major Selection on Admissions with Rick Clark

  • Learn about Dave’s Scholarship Course and get the FREE preview here
  • Download the detailed scholarship timeline organized by grade level

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Dave:Twitter: https://x.com/DaveTheScholar1
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100080949485476
Email: dave@nodebtcollege.com
The Scholarship GPS Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-scholarship-gps-podcast-your-directions-to-a/id1617874078

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa, Dr. Corbin, and Catie discuss:

  • Mentorship as a driver of growth and opportunity
  • The mutual responsibilities within mentor–mentee relationships
  • Early guidance shaping confidence and career direction
  • Paying forward lessons learned through mentoring others

Key Takeaways:

  • Mentorship offers students personalized support, creating opportunities that money alone cannot provide.
  • Advocating for oneself and asking for help early—whether in high school classrooms or college —can build the confidence needed to persist in challenging subjects.
  • Successful mentorship is not about rigid schedules but about mentees taking initiative, showing preparedness, and seeking guidance when it’s most needed.
  • Recognition can follow when students demonstrate leadership by mentoring younger peers, developing rigorous learning systems, and fostering strong academic communities.

“If you're a scientist in the STEM field, and you've never mentored anybody… I promise that any effort and time you spend mentoring will be rewarding, both for your mentee and for you.” – Dr. Karen Corbin
“Mentorship has always been a really important aspect of my life, and I do think something I'm very good at is advocating for myself and asking for help.” – Catie Kean

About Dr. Karen Corbin and Catie Kean:
Dr. Karen Corbin is an Associate Investigator at the AdventHealth Translational Research Institute. Since August 2024, she has mentored Catie Kean through the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation, supporting her academic journey and professional development.

Catie Kean is a 2024 Astronaut Scholar with the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation and a recent graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Biotechnology. She earned an Honorable Mention for the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program and will begin her PhD in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology at the University of Colorado Boulder in August 2025.

Episode References:

  • Explore more resources to support students’ growth and clarity by visiting the free tools
  • Join ASF’s Mentorship Program to support the newly announced 2025 Astronaut Scholars and help shape the future of science

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

Connect with the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astroscholarfdn/?hl=en
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AstroScholarFdn/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/astronaut-scholarship-foundat

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and René discuss:

  • The wide range of career opportunities available in aviation, beyond being a pilot
  • The growing demand for aviation professionals due to industry growth and retirements
  • Barriers and opportunities for women in aviation careers
  • Ways for students and families to explore aviation early without costly commitments

Key Takeaways:

  • Over 1.5 million new jobs are expected to be added to the aviation industry in the next decade, spanning roles from pilots and mechanics to drone specialists and meteorologists, creating opportunities that extend far beyond the cockpit.
  • With 80% of mechanics and 20% of airline pilots expected to retire in the next 10 years, the industry faces an urgent need for new talent and massive knowledge transfer to keep operations safe and sustainable.
  • Aviation mechanics, who can enter the field through associate’s degrees or trade programs, often start at $70,000–$80,000 a year and can grow into six-figure salaries, offering a strong career path without requiring a costly four-year college degree.
  • Early exposure through programs like the EAA Young Eagles, discovery flights at local airports, and virtual career fairs provides teens and young adults with a low-cost, hands-on opportunity to determine if aviation sparks their passion before committing to a training pathway.

“One of the things that I notice about people who are successful in aviation is that they’re passionate about it. So I would say if you’re a person that wants something that you can be all in with… great choice.” – René Banglesdorf

Episode References:

  • Occupational Outlook Handbook: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/
  • Young Eagles program (EAA – Experimental Aircraft Association): https://www.eaa.org/eaa/youth/free-ye-flights

  • 130 Pathway to Becoming a Pilot: Admissions and Career Insights with Penny Linsenmayer

  • Rene’s podcast and aviation career opportunities are at flourishcoachingco.com/aviation

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with René:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/renebanglesdorf/
Facebook: https://www.instagram.com/renebanglesdorf/
Website: https://renebanglesdorf.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rene-banglesdorf-15bb8527/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Zack discuss:

  • Understanding the difference between everyday anxiety and an anxiety disorder
  • The role of technology and social media in contributing to Gen Z anxiety
  • Evidence-based treatment approaches, including exposure therapy
  • Parenting strategies to support anxious teens without reinforcing fear

Key Takeaways:

  • Anxiety can be defined as an overestimation of threat and an underestimation of one’s ability to cope, and it becomes a disorder when it causes significant dysfunction in daily life.
  • Technology use often serves as a “medication” for uncertainty, providing short-term relief but contributing to worsening anxiety, with research suggesting decreased youth alcohol use but no mental health improvement.
  • Accommodations, such as parents completing tasks for anxious teens, can unintentionally reinforce fears; asking guiding questions helps youth build coping skills.
  • Exposure therapy works by gradually confronting fears until they become manageable or are disproven, reducing avoidance and increasing confidence.

“Fear and anxiety have an incredibly important role to play in our lives. It’s not all bad. It’s not a negative emotion, but it is an emotion that requires some understanding and some skill to address.” – Zack Schafer

Episode References:

  • The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt: https://www.amazon.com/Anxious-Generation-Rewiring-Childhood-Epidemic/dp/0593655036
  • Dopamine Nation by Dr. Anna Lembke: https://www.amazon.com/Dopamine-Nation-Finding-Balance-Indulgence/dp/152474672X
  • SPACE Treatment by Dr. Eli Lebowitz: https://www.spacetreatment.net/
  • BePresent App: https://www.bepresentapp.com/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret). flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Zack:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mountainvalleytreatmentcenter/
Website: https://mountainvalleytreatment.org/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zack-schafer-a6026b108/
Fear Less Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/
Email: zschafer@mountainvalleytreatment.org

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness
Dopamine Nation: Finding Balance in the Age of Indulgence

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Jaime discuss:

  • Understanding the role of impacted majors and prerequisites
  • The critical importance of aligning majors with career goals early
  • Navigating the complexities of college transfers
  • Financial planning and its impact on educational choices

Key Takeaways:

  • Over one-third of undergraduates transfer colleges, and without early planning around majors, prerequisites, and credit alignment, they risk losing time, money, and progress.
  • Students in impacted majors like Computer Science, Business, Nursing, and Engineering must complete strict, school-specific prerequisites, so they should map overlapping requirements across multiple target schools.
  • While some parents fear transferring will hurt their job or graduate school prospects, employers usually see only the final degree, and graduate programs value applicants who can explain a well-reasoned shift.
  • Before committing to a college—whether first-time or transfer—use FAFSA estimators to gauge real costs, research transfer scholarships, and compare prerequisite overlaps to avoid financial strain and lost credits.

“Most employers aren’t looking for whole transcripts to see your collection of credits. They’re just looking for the final outcome.” – Jaime Smith

About Jaime Smith: Jaime Smith is a Certified Educational Planner specializing in college transfer, online learning, homeschooling, and supporting neurodiverse learners. A longtime transfer student advocate, she earned a Post-Master's Certificate in Transfer Leadership and Practice from the University of North Georgia with the National Institute for the Study of Transfer Students in 2023. She holds a BA in Linguistics from UC Berkeley, an MA in TESOL, an MSEd in eLearning, and a certificate in College Counseling.
Founder and CEO of Online G3—an independent online program for gifted and twice-exceptional K–12 students—Jaime continues to teach English. A California native now in Oregon, she lives with her husband and pet bunny. Her daughter, a former homeschooler turned transfer student, is now in grad school.

Episode References:

  • 140 Avoiding the Pitfalls of College Transfers with Jaime Smith

  • The Truth about College Admission by Brennan Barnard and Rick Clark
  • Enter to win a free copy of The Complete Guide to College Transfer at flourishcoachingco.com/transfer through August 31.
  • Order The Complete Guide to College Transfer on Amazon starting August 26 to get the full roadmap for navigating college transfers
  • Explore school-by-school data on competitive and impacted majors at flourishcoachingco.com/majors to make smarter application choices.

Get Lisa'

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

The Truth about College Admission: A Family Guide to Getting In and Staying Together

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Jack discuss:

  • How authenticity influences a student’s journey through high school and college admissions
  • Making intentional academic and extracurricular choices instead of chasing prestige
  • Personal growth through adversity and how it can translate into advocacy and leadership
  • Using entrepreneurship to solve real-world problems in the college admissions process

Key Takeaways:

  • Crafting a college application around a meaningful personal narrative—especially one rooted in overcoming adversity—can create a clear and compelling through-line that ties together academics, extracurriculars, and long-term interests.
  • Prioritizing activities that genuinely excite you, rather than selecting them to impress others, leads to more fulfilling experiences and naturally stronger, more authentic application materials.
  • Letting go of lower-impact commitments, even those you once valued, can open up time and energy to go deeper into areas where your skills, passions, and long-term potential align most powerfully.
  • Seeking out immersive experiences, such as internships or independent projects, helps translate personal interests into tangible accomplishments while also shaping a clearer vision for future academic and career decisions.

“If you love what you're doing, you won't get tired. If you love what you're doing, you're going to be excited to wake up every day the next morning.” – Jack Goldstein

About Jack Goldstein: Jack Goldstein is from Portland, Oregon, and is heading to the University of Pennsylvania in the fall to commence his pursuits down the pre-law track. He is also the co-founder of Quadzio, a startup that will change the way the college tour process takes place. Passionate about advocacy and student empowerment, Jack aims to bridge gaps in access and authenticity within higher education. His work is driven by a belief that meaningful connections and lived experience should shape how students choose where to learn.

Episode References:

  • Subscribe to the free College & Career Clarity newsletter at flourishcoachingco.com/newsletter for weekly tips, insights, and expert strategies straight to your inbox.

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Jack:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/quadzioofficial/

Website: https://quadzio.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jack-goldstein-023661303/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Joanna discuss:

  • Exploring alternatives to the traditional college timeline
  • The evolving role of parents in post-secondary decision-making
  • Emotional and psychological challenges facing college-bound teens
  • The importance of preparation and intentional planning for life after high school

Key Takeaways:

  • College readiness is less about academic performance and more about whether a student can live independently, manage their time without reminders, handle stress in healthy ways, and recover from inevitable challenges like failure or rejection.
  • Choosing to delay college in favor of a well-planned year of work, volunteering, or self-directed learning through platforms like Coursera can give students the clarity, maturity, and practical skills they often need but didn’t gain during high school.
  • When a student shows signs of burnout, struggles with mental health, or has never had to navigate real consequences on their own, it’s usually a sign that stepping back from school to focus on personal growth is the healthier long-term decision.
  • Families who agree in advance on how they’ll stay in touch, what success looks like during the first semester, and how financial support will be tied to progress tend to create stronger trust and smoother transitions into adulthood.

“College is an experience out of the home for the first time... If your child has never had the opportunity to experience any adversity... that's going to be tremendously harder for them when they land on a college campus.” – Joanna Lilley

About Joanna Lilley: Since 2016, Joanna Lilley of Lilley Consulting has been helping young adults (18+) find mental health, substance use, and wellness resources. Joanna dedicates herself to working solely with emerging adults who unravel in college or aren’t thriving in adulthood. She also hosts the Success is Subjective podcast.

Episode References:

  • 020 Teaching Your Teen “How to College”: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/20-teaching-your-teen-how-to-college/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Joanna:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LilleyConsultingLLC/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-lilley-ma-ncc-12546566/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LilleyConsulting/featured

Website: https://lilleyconsulting.com/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Ramon discuss:

  • The importance of real-world work experience in building employable skills
  • How to approach job searching and internships with a strategic mindset
  • The unique challenges and strengths of neurodivergent students in career development
  • Why traditional career services often fall short in preparing students for the real job market

Key Takeaways:

  • Applying to hundreds of jobs (e.g., 500+) with a generic resume rarely yields results; students must instead craft targeted, high-quality applications with a strong business case for themselves.
  • Any job, including so-called “little” ones like lifeguarding or concessions, teaches transferable skills—such as teamwork, responsibility, and pressure management—that employers value and belong on a resume.
  • Students should proactively connect with professionals on LinkedIn and through school-specific portals to build relationships with potential employers early.
  • For neurodivergent students, building confidence involves reframing perceived weaknesses as strengths and learning not only how to interview but also why each step in the process is important, thereby fostering independence and long-term career success.

“I don’t want you starting your networking when you’re 30. I want you to start when you’re 21.” – Ramon Santillan

About Ramon Santillan: Ramon Santillan is the founder of PersuasiveInterview.com. Before he was an Interview & Negotiation Coach, he was a tax consultant for the world’s biggest accounting firm, the world’s biggest oil driller, and the founder of his own tax practice.

Ramon teaches professionals how to be more charismatic, feel and look more confident, shows them the right way to sell themselves during interviews and client meetings, and negotiate their salaries to what they deserve. He has been quoted by U.S. News & World Report, CBS, Yahoo!, CareerBuilder.com, Chicago Tribune, and many others as an interviewing and salary negotiation expert.

Ramon is a graduate of UT’s Red McCombs School of Business, a graduate of the FBI’s Citizen Academy, a Certified Corporate Trainer, and has served as Historian, Vice President, and President for the ALPFA Houston Chapter. He is a husband of one, father of two, and friend of many.
He loves reading—tell him about your favorite book and he’ll add it to his Amazon wishlist.

Ramon also enjoys writing about himself in the third person. He thinks it’s fun.

Episode References:

  • A free step-by-step guide to building a Student LinkedIn Profile: flourishcoachingco.com/linkedin
  • Handshake/CareerConnect: https://joinhandshake.com/

  • 164 Unlocking Neurodiversity & Career Planning Success with Rebecca Whittaker Matte: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/164

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Kolby discuss:

  • Challenges young adults face when transitioning from school to meaningful work
  • How parental involvement influences early career outcomes
  • Shifts in modern job search strategies and market expectations
  • Role of communication, curiosity, and empathy in career conversations

Key Takeaways:

  • Parents often misinterpret their child’s job search struggles as laziness when, in reality, outdated strategies and a broken formula of “work harder = success” demand a shift toward empathy, curiosity, and tactical guidance.
  • With student-to-career counselor ratios at colleges averaging 1,900:1 and most of those professionals rooted in academia, colleges are structurally unequipped to offer relevant, personalized career direction, making parental support and external coaching essential.
  • Asking young adults what problems they want to solve, rather than what job they want to do, reframes career planning around motivation and impact, leading to more aligned and fulfilling professional choices.
  • Employers prioritize real-world experience—such as internships, leadership roles, volunteering, and personal storytelling—far above GPA, meaning students who diversify their experiences outside the classroom stand out more than those who focus solely on academics.

“Effort does not equal success. So give your kid a little bit of credit... it's rarely more of anything that makes the change for a young professional, it is the how.” – Kolby Goodman

About Kolby Goodman: Kolby Goodman is a nationally recognized career expert, keynote speaker, and founder of The Job Huntr, a coaching and consulting firm that has helped over 4,000 clients get hired, paid, and promoted. With more than a decade of experience in talent acquisition and employee development, Kolby delivers powerful training on hiring strategy, onboarding, and career growth. He is the author of Employed by Graduation and a trusted voice featured on ABC, CBS, NPR, HuffPost, and LinkedIn Learning.

Episode References:

  • 179 Music Career Myths: What Parents Need to Know with Melissa Mulligan

  • The Truth about College Admission by Brennan Barnard & Rick Clark
  • Conversation prompts for parents to guide career clarity

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Kolby:
Website: https://www.kolbygoodman.com/ & https://www.employedbygraduation.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kolbygoodman/
Book:

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

The Truth about College Admission: A Family Guide to Getting In and Staying Together

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Jyoti discuss:

  • Evaluating college programs for women pursuing STEM degrees
  • The impact of institutional culture and faculty representation on female STEM persistence
  • The role of clubs, communities, and scholarships in STEM success for women
  • Tools and strategies for in-depth college research for female STEM students

Key Takeaways:

  • Female representation among STEM faculty and mentors significantly improves persistence and confidence in women students by providing relatable role models actively involved in research and mentorship.
  • Programs and colleges that intentionally prioritize gender equity through hiring, admissions goals, and targeted initiatives can offer a more welcoming and empowering environment for women pursuing STEM fields.
  • Supportive ecosystems such as student clubs, professional organizations, and gender-focused learning communities create a vital sense of belonging and peer encouragement that helps women navigate male-dominated disciplines.
  • Early and intentional exposure to hands-on STEM experiences, from middle school through college internships and fellowships, is essential in nurturing both curiosity and long-term career success for young women in science and engineering.

“Having women role models to look up to for younger women makes it a little less intimidating.” – Jyoti Jain

About Jyoti Jain: Jyoti found her passion for college counseling while helping her own child through the college admissions process and decided to pursue a Certificate in Career Planning and College Counseling from UC Berkeley Extension.

She specializes in STEM, Engineering, and the Pre-Med track. She believes that college is all about fit and is excited about empowering students in discovering their unique STEM journeys.

Episode References:

  • 123 College Institutional Priorities: Understanding Who Gets In with Aly Beaumont

  • 132 Computer Science and STEM Admissions Tips with Jyoti Jain

  • Common Data Set Initiative
  • The College Finder Fifth Edition by Dr. Steven R. Antonoff

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Jyoti:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jyoticollegeconsultant
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaincollegeconsulting/
Website:

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Brianne discuss:

  • Navigating unspoken rules in the modern workplace
  • Building emotional intelligence and soft skills for career growth
  • Adapting to emerging technologies like AI in career planning
  • Overcoming generational biases and workplace stereotypes

Key Takeaways:

  • To succeed in both interviews and long-term career growth, young professionals must focus on developing strong communication abilities, demonstrate consistent curiosity, and embrace self-driven learning rather than relying solely on technical expertise.
  • Gen Z faces invisible hurdles in the workforce, such as being penalized for frequent job changes, perceived entitlement, and lack of industry experience, all of which can hurt their credibility before they even have the chance to prove themselves.
  • Understanding and applying emotional intelligence—through self-awareness, emotional regulation, and empathy—can significantly enhance workplace relationships and leadership potential, often more than mastering technical tasks.
  • Confidence in advocating for oneself during salary negotiations and career conversations comes from deliberate preparation, including practicing responses, understanding personal financial needs, and learning to communicate value with clarity and assertiveness.

“Action is what builds confidence... the worst thing you can do is sit there and wait for the quote, unquote, right time.” – Brianne Rush

About Brianne Rush: Brianne Rush is the founder of The Independence Lab, where she helps Gen Z women transition from college to careers with confidence. She climbed the ladder fast—going from intern to managing editor in one year, and from employee to VP in just four. But her success didn’t come from following the traditional rules. Instead, she learned how to decode unspoken workplace dynamics, challenge outdated norms, and advocate effectively for herself. Recognized by platforms like Forbes, SUCCESS, and Women We Admire, Brianne is dedicated to unlocking career growth for a new generation.

Episode References:

  • ChatGPT: https://chatgpt.com/
  • Coursera: https://www.coursera.org/
  • The Defining Decade by Meg Jay: https://www.amazon.com/Defining-Decade-Your-Twenties-Matter/dp/0446561754
  • Lisa’s Free LinkedIn Profile Guide: https://flourishcoachingco.com/linkedin
  • Brianne’s Free Career Playbook eBook: https://theindependencelab.com/playbook

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Brianne:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

The Defining Decade: Why Your Twenties Matter and How to Make the Most of Them Now

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Jeremy discuss:

  • Navigating the tension between building a career and staying connected with family
  • Developing intentional family habits to foster communication and connection
  • Mentorship and parenting as parallel paths of leadership and influence
  • The evolving dynamics of parent-child relationships over time

Key Takeaways:

  • Regularly engaging in open-ended, judgment-free conversations—such as a structured “questions game” with mutual vulnerability—can significantly strengthen emotional connection, trust, and communication within families.
  • By identifying and committing to a few foundational priorities (like faith, family meals, and academic responsibility), families can create a value-based structure that helps manage time and reduce overwhelm amid hectic schedules.
  • Proactively setting boundaries, building routines, and reassessing time investments can help parents transition from guilt-driven reactions to intentional presence and sustained connection with their children.
  • Incorporating diverse mentorship sources—like books, podcasts, and public figures—alongside personal storytelling empowers parents and teens to grow through both external insight and lived family wisdom.

“There is room for everything, so long as your priorities are in line.” – Jeremy Hill

About Jeremy Hill: Jeremy is a recognized expert in the private debt industry. Since founding JB Capital in 2003, the company has become a leading reference for capital placement and advisory services in the U.S. and Canadian lower middle markets. Under his leadership, JB Capital has raised and advised on approximately $1 billion in capital for growth companies across a broad range of industries. Known for his acuity in creating innovative solutions to complex situations, his strong track record of success has enabled him to build an extensive network of partners that includes leading commercial banks, alternative investment managers, and global advisory firms. He is also a guest contributor to CNBC and Bloomberg, and provides ongoing financial advice and board leadership to several well-known growth companies.

Episode References:

  • 002 Julie Lythcott-Haims on How to Raise an Adult: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/002-how-to-raise-an-adult/

  • How to Raise an Adult by Julie Lythcott-Haims: https://www.julielythcotthaims.com/how-to-raise-an-adult
  • Start better conversations with your teen—get weekly connection-building prompts at flourishcoachingco.com/newsletter

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Jeremy:
Instagram:

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Jennifer discuss:

  • AI as a formal academic major and how it intersects with other disciplines
  • Strategies for aligning student strengths and interests with suitable college majors
  • How to assess readiness and fit for AI-related college programs and careers
  • Cultivating adaptable, future-proof skills in a rapidly changing tech landscape

Key Takeaways:

  • While only a dozen U.S. universities currently offer formal AI majors, these programs are rapidly evolving and can be categorized into technical, interdisciplinary, or business-oriented tracks, with new offerings emerging every year.
  • Pursuing an AI degree means committing to rigorous foundational coursework in advanced math (like calculus and linear algebra), computer science (such as algorithms and data structures), and electives in machine learning, ethics, and human-centered disciplines.
  • Students unsure about committing to AI can gain clarity and assess fit by engaging in real-world experiences like hackathons, data-driven research projects, or intensive summer programs such as PROMYS, which challenge problem-solving and data interpretation skills.
  • Even if a formal AI major isn’t available, students can still prepare effectively for AI careers by strategically choosing AI-related electives within computer science or data science programs that align with their interests and long-term goals.

“Don’t think about AI-proof skills. Think about future-proof skills, because whatever the field, whatever the time, whatever the place, learning those skills that transcend a specific discipline is what will take you forward.” – Dr. Jennifer Stephan

About Dr. Jennifer Stephan: Dr. Jennifer Stephan has held various roles across top colleges and universities, including professor, academic dean, and board of admissions member. She holds a BS degree in electrical engineering from Johns Hopkins University and an MS and a PhD in electrical and computer engineering from Carnegie Mellon University. She is currently the Dean of Academic Advising and Undergraduate Studies for the School of Engineering at Tufts University and the founder of Lantern College Counseling, where she offers college admissions services, college success coaching, and expert support grounded in her proprietary Deep-Fit™ approach, developed through decades of experience.

Episode References:

  • Jennifer’s Blog, Best Colleges for Artificial Intelligence (AI) Majors
  • Unlock the Truth about Admission by Major
  • Episode #172 Building Math Confidence for Better Career Options with Ben Orlin

  • 149 Boosting STEM Student Success Through Math Contests with Vida John

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting thems

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Melissa discuss:

  • The misconceptions and realities of pursuing a music career
  • The value and limitations of majoring in music at college
  • How parents can support teens responsibly pursuing creative paths
  • Building sustainable and financially secure careers in the arts

Key Takeaways:

  • Majoring in music is often unnecessary, and sometimes unhelpful, for students pursuing contemporary music careers, who instead benefit more from learning entrepreneurial skills like music production, video editing, and social media marketing.
  • Many successful musicians build income through diverse streams like collaboration, licensing, freelance production, and music business work, not just from their music.
  • Early hands-on experience in music production, collaboration, and entrepreneurship helps students determine whether a professional music career is right for them before committing to a college major or expensive program.
  • A helpful question to guide college decisions is: "What are you hiring a college to do for you?" Focusing on outcomes like networking or skill-building rather than simply pursuing prestige.

“You do not need a piece of paper, or an institution, or anyone's permission to become great at your craft. Become an entrepreneur and launch yourself.” – Melissa Mulligan

About Melissa Mulligan: Melissa Mulligan is a renowned vocal and music career coach who has guided platinum-selling, award-winning, and touring artists, including Jack from AJR, Chelsea Cutler, Jeremy Zucker, and Aria Lisslo, the 2024 John Lennon Songwriter Award winner. With decades of experience, she has coached talent across genres, from Emmy-winning performers to pop-punk legends. Melissa is the founder of Music Career Mastermind, a global coaching collective of top-tier producers, songwriters, and music industry experts. Through this initiative, she helps indie artists and aspiring professionals build authentic, sustainable careers in music while getting recognized for their most unique creative work.

Episode References:

  • Register now for Real Talk: Mapping Music Careers and College Paths — a four-person expert panel featuring Melissa Mulligan, Lisa Marker Robbins, Dr. Christine Gangelhoff, and Dr. Elena Johnson: flourishcoachingco.com/music

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Melissa:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/music_career_mastermind

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mymmvs/

Website: https://www.mastermindroad.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-mulligan-3ab018142/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and David discuss:

  • Evolving expectations in college admissions
  • Challenges in assessing academic readiness amid grade inflation, and how some colleges are responding
  • Increased reliance on standardized, verifiable academic indicators
  • Strategic adjustments needed for competitive application success

Key takeaways:

  • Colleges increasingly expect students to submit AP exam scores for each AP class listed on transcripts to verify true academic mastery beyond inflated grades.
  • Objective academic benchmarks—like AP exams, competitions, and certifications from Schoolhouse.world—are filling the gap left by discontinued SAT Subject Tests.
  • Students without AP access, including those in under-resourced schools or homeschooling, can use Schoolhouse.world or CLEP exams to demonstrate subject proficiency.
  • The selectivity of a student’s intended major—not just the college—can significantly affect how much weight objective academic data carries in admissions.

“Now, when you take an [AP] class in high school, an A in that course does not necessarily reflect content mastery anymore, and college admissions officers will even say this.” – David Blobaum

About David Blobaum: David Blobaum is a nationally recognized expert on standardized exams and college admissions. He graduated from the University of Chicago with honors from both the college and his major. He is the managing partner at Summit Prep, a supplemental education company specializing in SAT and ACT tutoring. He also serves on the Board of Directors for the National Test Prep Association and is its Director of Outreach. In that role, he has helped educate families on testing and admissions through over seventy TV interviews, podcast appearances, and published op-eds.

Episode References:

072 Summer is the Key to Academic Success https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/072

100 Can You Really Trust What Colleges Say Matters in Admission? https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/100

142 SAT, ACT, and Test-Optional Admissions https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/142

057 College Admission by Major with Andy Borst https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/057

149 Boosting STEM Student Success Through Math Contests with Vida John https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/149

042 Will grade inflation hurt your teen? https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/042

018 How to Get Freshman Year Free https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/018

Schoolhouse.world: https://schoolhouse.world/
Modern States: https://modernstates.org/
The Nation's Report Card | NAEP: https://nces.ed.gov/nationsreportcard/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with David:
Website: http://summitprep.us/
Youtube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCUAS5Ayzj6evxDqoNieGkqg
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-blobaum/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/summit-prep-llc

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Tara discuss:

  • Navigating cultural, generational, and personal differences through intercultural competence
  • Building self-awareness as the foundation for meaningful cross-cultural understanding
  • Creating opportunities for teens to develop global and human skills in everyday contexts
  • Connecting intercultural experiences to long-term success in education, careers, and relationships

Key Takeaways:

  • Intercultural competence includes understanding one’s cultural values and norms and using that awareness to interpret and empathize with others’ differences, not just across nations but including neurodiversity, socioeconomic background, and generational gaps.
  • Teens can gain intercultural skills without traveling abroad by participating in local experiences such as taking inclusive classes, hosting exchange students, or attending language immersion camps.
  • Intercultural learning is most effective when combined with intentional reflection or mentorship to help teens make meaning from their experiences and apply the lessons in other contexts.
  • Skills developed through intercultural experiences — like empathy, emotional intelligence, and flexibility — are increasingly valued by colleges and employers and can significantly enhance a teen’s college application and workplace readiness.

“Developing intercultural competence, a big piece of it is developing self-awareness — like, who am I? What groups am I a part of? How have those shaped my values, my thinking, my interests?” – Tara Harvey

About Tara Harvey: Tara Harvey, Ph.D., is a highly regarded specialist in intercultural teaching and learning in higher education. In 2016, Tara founded True North Intercultural LLC to provide high-quality professional development to higher education faculty, staff, and institutions, helping them better navigate cultural differences and facilitate students’ intercultural learning (at home and abroad). Tara is also in an intercultural marriage and the mom of two teens.

Episode References:

  • Tara’s Blog, Intercultural Experiences for Teens: https://www.truenorthintercultural.com/blog/intercultural-experiences-for-teens

  • 160 How World Languages Open Doors with Dr. Karyn Koven: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/160

  • 135 Transformative Cultural Abroad Experiences for Teen Personal Growth with Johnny Tock: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/135

  • Concordia Language Villages: https://www.concordialanguagevillages.org/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Tara:
Website: https://www.truenorthintercultural.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taraaharvey/
Email: tara@truenorthinter

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Phil discuss:

  • The increasing competitiveness of college admissions and how students can stand out
  • College affordability challenges and emerging solutions for middle-income families
  • How military-affiliated education pathways like Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) are evolving in today's landscape
  • Strategic early planning in high school to align students with admissions and career opportunities

Key Takeaways:

  • Pursuing ROTC scholarships can significantly increase a student's chances of admission at selective colleges by placing them in a smaller, less competitive applicant pool with added institutional incentives.
  • ROTC programs can drastically reduce or eliminate the financial burden of college, with full-tuition scholarships, summer stipends, and guaranteed high-paying jobs post-graduation.
  • Starting as early as 9th grade, students should build a competitive ROTC profile by demonstrating academic strength, physical fitness, leadership, and a consistent interest in service.
  • With the potential reduction in need-based financial aid at elite institutions due to shifting federal funding, ROTC offers a strategic alternative for middle-income families seeking affordability without compromising on school quality.

“If you're an ROTC student, you can get nearly all of your college paid for.” – Phil Black

About Phil Black: Phil Black has built a remarkable 30-year track record that includes roles as a Division I college athlete, Navy SEAL officer, Goldman Sachs investment banker, entrepreneur, firefighter, and two-time Shark Tank contestant. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Yale and an MBA from Harvard Business School.

For the past 12 years, he’s helped hundreds of students gain admission to service academies, ROTC programs, and top-tier colleges. His twin sons are graduating from Yale (Navy ROTC), one son is at the U.S. Naval Academy, and his youngest is a high school sophomore.

Episode References:

  • Phil’s ServeWell Academy ROTC Blog Posts: https://www.servewellacademy.com/blog?tag=rotc

  • 144 Military Service Academy Majors & Career Paths with Phil Black: https://flourishcoachingco.com/144

  • 091 How ROTC Programs Train Future Officers & Help Pay For College with Lisa Rielage: https://flourishcoachingco.com/091

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Phil:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/servewell_academy

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philipablack/

Website: https://www.servewellacademy.com/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Alison Slater discuss:

  • Mastering college interviews as a tool for standing out in competitive admissions
  • Building confidence and communication through intentional interview prep
  • Navigating different formats and policies of college interviews
  • Applying interview skills to scholarships, internships, and future jobs

Key Takeaways:

  • Starting interview prep in junior year helps students take advantage of early opportunities, including summer interviews and scholarship deadlines that may come before applications.
  • Building a personal elevator pitch and identifying 3–5 core values allows students to answer questions with clarity and purpose across interviews and essays.
  • Practicing out loud and doing mock interviews with someone objective improves delivery, boosts confidence, and helps uncover forgotten strengths.
  • AI can support interview prep and school research, but the interview itself remains a valuable, real-time moment for students to show authenticity and create a personal connection.

“Interview prep is a combination of preparing the skills that you need... and doing the self-reflection to be able to speak about your experiences eloquently.” – Alison Slater

About Alison Slater: Alison attended Bucknell University and worked in selective college admissions for fifteen years. Interviews were her favorite part of the college application process, but she found they often became missed opportunities when students arrived nervous or unprepared. Now, Alison helps students make strong impressions by preparing thoughtfully and approaching each interview with a clear plan.

Episode References:

  • 170 AI and College Essays: What Families Need to Know with Susan Knoppow: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/170

  • 173 The Top 3 Scholarship Essays That Win Money with Leia LeMaster Horton: https://flourishcoachingco.com/173

  • Alison’s Practice Interview Questions: https://static1.squarespace.com/static/6680dabe235f54454a61cb47/t/67e1d8b1e9be040252804a25/1742854322162/Common+Interview+Questions.pdf

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Alison:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/interviewprepllc/

Website: http://www.interviewprepllc.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alison-slater/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/interview-prep-llc/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Stephen discuss:

  • Entrepreneurial mindset development for comprehensive student growth
  • Career readiness beyond traditional educational frameworks
  • Soft skills as critical professional success indicators
  • Family's strategic role in cultivating adaptive thinking skills

Key Takeaways:

  • Entrepreneurial skills can be intentionally developed through a framework of four interconnected pillars: growth mindset, grit, redefining failure, and seeking opportunities, all of which reshape how students approach challenges and growth.
  • Embedding student-run business experiences within schools creates a powerful learning model that equips students with practical skills, teamwork, and real-world problem-solving beyond traditional academics.
  • The idea of “follow your passion” is misleading, as true passion is cultivated through skill-building, consistent practice, and long-term commitment.
  • Crafting a clear family mission and defined core values empowers teens with resilience and a decision-making framework for navigating personal and professional challenges.

“We're not just churning out entrepreneurs. We are helping students think like entrepreneurs. So, this was about compiling, condensing, and then really synthesizing.” – Stephen Carter

About Stephen Carter: Stephen Carter is the Director of Entrepreneurship at Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy, where he oversees a nationally recognized program with fifteen elective courses, a full certificate track, and six supporting student-run businesses.
Stephen is also the founder of Seed Tree Group, where he works with K-12 Christian schools to develop entrepreneurial programs based around the model of redemptive entrepreneurship.
His mission is to develop the entrepreneurial mindset in all learners, so they are radically transformed to impact their lives. His book, Teaching the Entrepreneurial Mindset, details the impact made on learners when they are given real-world, practical skills and a clear path to success.
Episode References:
Grit by Angela Duckworth: https://angeladuckworth.com/grit-book/
Carol Dweck on How Growth Mindsets Can Bear Fruit in the Classroom: https://www.psychologicalscience.org/observer/dweck-growth-mindsets
Career Development Readiness Quiz: https://flourishcoachingco.com/quiz

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Stephen:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seedtreegroup
Website: http://seedtreegroup.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-carter-seedtree/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Leia discuss:

  • Strategies for crafting effective scholarship essays
  • How early planning influences scholarship success
  • Understanding the types of scholarships available
  • Maintaining consistency and organization throughout the scholarship process

Key Takeaways:

  • Focusing on three core essays—the personal statement, community impact, and scholarship impact—addresses six of the ten most common prompts, saving time and enhancing application quality.
  • Starting the personal statement by December of junior year gives a competitive edge for early scholarships and time to refine it for both scholarships and college applications.
  • Consistent community involvement, like volunteering or leading initiatives, boosts chances of winning scholarships, especially local ones that value impact over academics.
  • Students who establish a weekly scholarship routine, applying consistently and tracking deadlines while tailoring core essays, are more likely to win multiple awards without feeling overwhelmed.

“If they start December of junior year, they have a year and a half to really learn how to do it well, consistently, once a week….So if they learn at home and contribute toward college, they'll keep earning scholarships. What I've seen: if mom and dad pay for everything, the students just stop.” – Leia LeMaster Horton

About Leia LeMaster Horton: Leia LeMaster Horton, founder of Horton Test Prep and an experienced educational consultant, specializes in SAT, ACT, and CLT test prep. With a passion for helping students achieve their dream scores and secure financial aid, she has guided hundreds in improving their test results. A classical educator with over 20 years of experience, Leia focuses on key strategies, shortcuts, and formulas for success. Her commitment goes beyond test scores, helping students earn scholarships and excel academically.

Episode References:

  • Lisa’s Career Advising Course: https://flourishcoachingco.com/course
  • Leia’s Free E-book Download: https://flourishcoachingco.com/scholarship-ebook
  • Scholarship Course:
    • President Coolidge Scholarship https://coolidgescholars.org
    • Distinguished Young Women Scholarship https://www.distinguishedyw.org/scholarships

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret). flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Leia:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leialemasterhorton/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hortontestprep/
Website: https://www.hortontestprep.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leia-lemaster-horton-m-ed-test-prep-professional-25917138/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Ben discuss:

  • The impact of math confidence and mindset on educational and career paths
  • How math anxiety can steer students away from valuable opportunities
  • The importance of data literacy and real-world applications of math
  • Strategies for building confidence and persistence in learning math

Key Takeaways:

  • Developing math confidence hinges more on persistence, curiosity, and the ability to ask questions than on natural speed or accuracy, enabling students to thrive across diverse fields beyond traditional STEM.
  • Concepts like calculus, though often abstract in the classroom, are deeply tied to real-world thinking in areas like economics and business, where understanding small changes leads to big insights.
  • Recognizing the range of math intensity required across different careers—from basic data literacy to complex statistical modeling—helps students avoid limiting their options due to unnecessary fear or avoidance.
  • Students who shift their mindset from avoiding difficulty to embracing challenge build essential problem-solving and resilience skills that serve not only in academics but throughout their careers and lives.

“To be able to look at something that you're struggling with and say, 'I am struggling with this, and I know that, and I'm not going to stop until I get it.' It can be a hard mindset switch to make, but it's sort of an all-powerful one.” – Ben Orlin

About Ben Orlin: Ben Orlin loves math and cannot draw. He is the author of four badly drawn books, including Math with Bad Drawings, which has sold over 100,000 copies worldwide. He has taught middle school, high school, and college math. He lives in the Twin Cities with his wife, their two daughters, and his lifelong fervor for desserts.

Episode References:

  • 119 How to Change Your College Major Successfully with Kaci Kortis: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/119

  • 027 Differences between Engineering & Engineering Technology Majors & Jobs: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/027

  • Download a Sample Birkman Report: https://flourishcoachingco.com/birkman
  • Change Is the Only Constant: https://www.amazon.com/Change-Only-Constant-Wisdom-Calculus/dp/0316509086
  • Math for English Majors: https://www.amazon.com/Math-English-Majors-Universal-Language/dp/0762499818

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Ben:
Instagram: https://instagram.com/mathwithbaddrawings
Facebook: https://facebook.com/mathwithbaddrawings
Website: https://mathwithbaddrawings.com

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

Change Is the Only Constant: The Wisdom of Calculus in a Madcap World
None

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Amanda discuss:

  • A holistic admissions review that looks beyond grades and test scores
  • Writing authentic, personal essays that reflect a student’s true identity
  • Strategically crafting supplemental essays to show university fit and motivation
  • Preparing for campus visits to gather insights for stronger applications

Key Takeaways:

  • Application readers carefully evaluate every part of a submission, typically spending 5 to 30 minutes depending on the depth, creativity, and authenticity demonstrated.
  • Essays generated by AI are often easily recognized by admissions professionals; they tend to be generic and impersonal, lacking the student’s genuine voice and lived experience.
  • Strong supplemental essays require in-depth research into a university’s distinctive programs, faculty, and opportunities—showing a thoughtful and specific connection beyond surface-level familiarity.
  • Capturing impressions immediately after a campus visit—including personal reflections, standout moments, and detailed program insights—provides rich, authentic content for compelling “Why Us?” essays.

“Have fun with [the college essays]. Be creative. It truly is the creative ones that are fun.” – Amanda Leszczuk

About Amanda Leszczuk: Amanda Leszczuk recently retired from Mariemont High School after 19 years as Director of College and Career Counseling, where she created their college and career program. Over her 35-year education career, she has helped thousands of students across districts with the college application process, including essays. Involved in organizations like the Ohio Association for College Admissions Counseling and serving on admissions boards at four universities, she has contributed to her field and presented at conferences. Now an independent educational consultant, she also teaches the Post-Secondary Career Planning and College Advising course at the University of Cincinnati, helping aspiring counselors set up their college programs. Amanda has read many college essays, including evaluating university applications, and provides students with tips to improve their essays.

Episode References:
How to Find College Supplemental Essays: https://flourishcoachingco.com/find-essays
Common App Essay Prompts: https://www.commonapp.org/apply/essay-prompts

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Amanda:
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-d-leszczuk-a9152454
Email: amandaleszczuk@gmail.com

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Susan discuss:

  • How AI impacts the essay-writing process for students
  • Mistaken beliefs about what makes a strong application essay
  • Crafting essays that truly reflect a student's voice and experiences
  • Helpful strategies and tools that can assist in writing a strong college essay

Key Takeaways:

  • AI should not be used to generate or refine college essays. It can assist with research, but all information must be verified, and the writing must be entirely the student's own.
  • Admissions officers value essays that show a student's true personality and experiences over overly polished or generic ones. They seek real people who will contribute to the college community, not just applicants with strong credentials.
  • Essays should reflect the voice of a 17 to 18-year-old. Unnecessarily formal or complex language can make an essay feel inauthentic; clear and honest communication is more important.
  • Rather than focusing on structure or a single moment, strong essays thoughtfully respond to the prompt, offering meaningful personal insights that reveal the student's true character.

“You don't have to create a persona that you think will be appealing to your reader. You need to answer the question and show who you really are.” – Susan Knoppow

About Susan Knoppow: Focused, incisive, and creative, Susan can turn the most daunting writing challenge into a series of simple steps; she conceptualized and developed the Wow Method for teaching writing.

A former executive speechwriter and copywriter, Susan is also a published poet and essayist. She holds a BA in Psychology from the University of Michigan and an MFA in Writing from Vermont College.

When she's not running Wow, Susan likes to garden, cook, and go on adventures with her husband and their dog, Luna. She has three adult children who are all talented creative writers as well.

Episode References:

  • College Essay Resources from WOW https://flourishcoachingco.com/essays

  • 066 Everything You Think You Know About College Essays Is Wrong with Susan Knoppow: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/066

  • Says Who? by Anne Curzan: https://www.amazon.com/Says-Who-Kinder-Funner-Everyone/dp/0593444094

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Susan:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wowessayexperts/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wowwriting
Website: https://wowwritingworkshop.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanknoppow/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Rick discuss:

  • How a student’s choice of future intended major impacts their college admissions chances
  • The role of holistic review in determining “Fit To Major” (FTM)
  • The challenges students face when trying to change majors after admission
  • Why flexibility is essential in the college application process

Key Takeaways:

  • Colleges often evaluate whether a student’s academic choices and extracurricular activities align with their intended major, so applying without evidence of interest in that field can weaken an application, even at schools that do not directly admit by major.
  • Some universities, particularly for highly competitive majors like computer science and business, have strict policies that prevent or limit students from switching into these programs after enrollment, making initial major selection a critical decision.
  • Admissions officers look for patterns of demonstrated interest, expecting engineering applicants to take advanced math and science courses or business applicants to show entrepreneurial involvement, which helps determine if a student is truly prepared for their chosen major.
  • Students who remain open to alternative entry pathways—such as summer admissions, starting at a different campus, or transferring later—increase their chances of reaching their academic and career goals, even if they don’t initially get into their first-choice program.

“The more kids can put themselves in a position where they have choices and options, the better off they’re going to be.” – Rick Clark

About Rick Clark: Rick Clark is Georgia Tech’s inaugural Executive Director for Strategic Student Access, leading efforts to expand enrollment, access, and affordability through key partnerships. Previously, he spent 15 years as AVP and Executive Director of Undergraduate Admission, strengthening Tech’s brand, academic profile, and enrollment. He serves on national councils, including NACAC’s Committee on Leadership in College Admission, and speaks at U.S. embassies on higher education. Rick is the creator of the GT Admissions blog, co-author of The Truth About College Admission, and co-host of its podcast. A native of Atlanta, he holds degrees from UNC-Chapel Hill and Georgia State and has worked at Georgia State, The McCallie School, and Wake Forest University.

Episode References:

  • Blueprint to Understanding Admissions by Major: https://flourishcoachingco.com/majors
  • The Truth about College Admission by Brennan Barnard & Rick Clark: https://www.amazon.com/Truth-about-College-Admission-Together/dp/142143637X
  • The College Admissions Process Podcast by John Durante: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-college-admissions-process-podcast/id1608682810

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Rick:
Twitter: https://x.com/Clark2College
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/raclarkatl/
The Truth about College Admission Podcast:

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

The Truth about College Admission: A Family Guide to Getting In and Staying Together

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Elliot discuss:

  • How to identify truly student-centered colleges beyond marketing claims
  • The impact of well-connected campus services on student success
  • Why experiential learning is essential for career readiness
  • The hidden challenges of higher education that students and families should know

Key Takeaways:

  • Colleges with one-stop shops simplify administrative challenges by consolidating financial aid, registration, and advising services into a single location, reducing confusion and delays for students.
  • Libraries that function as academic support hubs provide students with integrated resources like writing centers, tutoring, research support, and maker spaces, ensuring easy access to essential learning tools.
  • Experiential learning centers are crucial because hands-on experiences like internships, co-ops, and industry certifications (e.g., HubSpot, Salesforce) offer more career value than additional majors or minors.
  • While well-designed campus apps can streamline student services, too many uncoordinated digital tools create confusion, making it harder for students to navigate resources effectively.

“Experiential learning is one of these great opportunities where one plus one makes 11—it's because you build skills but also a network...you're talking to real people with real problems that you get experience solving, and then—through that work—those projects become part of your portfolio.” – Elliot Felix

About Elliot Felix: Elliot Felix is an author, speaker, teacher, father, and consultant to over 100 colleges, using his design background to improve campus spaces, support services, and technology.

Over 20 years, he has spoken at SxSW Edu, taught innovation courses, and worked with top universities like Carnegie Mellon, MIT, NYU, NC State, and UVA, improving the experience of over 1,000,000 students.

His work appears in Fast Company, Forbes, and The Chronicle of Higher Education. His book How to Get the Most Out of College (2022) earned a blue star from Kirkus Reviews, calling it “A knowledgeable, enthusiastic guide packed with strategies and encouragement.”

His upcoming book, The Connected College: Leadership Strategies for Student Success, arrives in early 2025.

Episode References:

  • Episode #068 How to Get the Most Out Of College with Elliot Felix

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Elliot:

Twitter: https://x.com/elliotfelix

TikTok: http://www.tiktok.com/@elliot_felix

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcP8dIfoC28OJH7rgdCKmmA

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elliotfelix/

Website: https://www.elliotfelix.com/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Amy discuss:

  • Identifying personality traits, interests, and work styles for career exploration
  • Factors influencing long-term career satisfaction and professional fulfillment
  • The research and validation behind data-driven career assessments
  • The relationship between career clarity, education choices, and financial outcomes

Key Takeaways:

  • The Birkman Assessment identifies career matches by analyzing multiple personality dimensions—not just interests but also work styles and environmental needs—against a database of professionals who have remained satisfied in their roles for at least seven years.
  • Unlike quick career quizzes, Birkman undergoes rigorous psychometric validation every 10 years to ensure its results remain reliable and predictive, distinguishing it from assessments that lack scientific backing.
  • Low career matches do not mean a job is impossible but indicate potential challenges, such as a workplace culture mismatch or a need for unique approaches to succeed, requiring further research through job shadowing, informational interviews, or skill development.
  • Career clarity minimizes costly education mistakes by helping students avoid unnecessary degree changes or career pivots, ensuring that the time, money, and effort invested in college align with long-term satisfaction and job retention.

“With Birkman, we're able to say, ‘Hey, even if you're good at it, that doesn't mean you're interested in it.’ Interest with Birkman means it is fulfilling, motivating, and energizing.” – Amy Shepley

About Amy Shepley: Amy Shepley, granddaughter of Dr. Roger W. Birkman and daughter of Sharon Birkman, has over 20 years of experience in corporate teams and organizational behavior. Throughout her tenure at Birkman, she has worked globally to enhance The Birkman Method and solve modern workplace challenges. In 2019, she founded Percepte, consulting Fortune 500 companies on leadership, team effectiveness, and change management. In 2022, she returned to Birkman International as president, bringing her passion for innovation in organizational success. She holds an undergraduate degree in psychology and an MBA from Tulane University.

Episode References:
Episode 43: College Major Identification with the Birkman Method with Sharon Birkman: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/043-college-major-identification-with-the-birkman-method/
O*NET OnLine: https://www.onetonline.org/
BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) Occupational Outlook Handbook: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/
SOC (Standard Occupational Classification) System: https://www.bls.gov/soc/
Sample Birkman Report Available at: flourishcoachingco.com/birkman

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Amy:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amy.shepley/
Website: http://birkman.com/
Email: ashepley@birkman.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amyshepley/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Dr. John discuss:

  • Navigating the college admissions process thoughtfully
  • How colleges handle financial aid, scholarships, and what you can do to know the true college costs
  • Building a college list based on fit, not prestige
  • Crafting a strong personal story in your teen’s application through essays, interviews, and extracurriculars

Key Takeaways:

  • Use the Net Price Calculator on college websites to estimate tuition costs instead of relying on sticker prices or general assumptions.
  • Pre-med and pre-law are not official majors; students can choose any field that matches their strengths while completing required prerequisites.
  • Visit colleges during sessions to understand campus life, talk to current students, and attend major-specific programs.
  • AI can assist with brainstorming, but essays must reflect personal authenticity, as admissions officers can identify AI-written work, and some schools disqualify it.

“AI is a great tool to help you with many things, but AI does not replace the essence of who you are. The only person that can really describe you in detail is you.” – John Durante
About Dr. John Durante: Dr. John Durante has dedicated over 30 years to education as both a teacher and administrator. Since 2010, he has served as the principal of Syosset High School, playing a key role in its recognition as one of the top high schools in the country. After helping his own daughters navigate their college journeys, he launched The College Admissions Process Podcast in 2022, which has become a valuable resource for students, parents, and college counselors.

Episode References:

  • Net Price Calculator Center: https://collegecost.ed.gov/net-price
  • College Navigator: https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/
  • College List Building Tutorial: https://courses.flourishcoachingco.com/college-list-building-tutorial-2025
  • Common App Essay Prompts: https://www.commonapp.org/apply/essay-prompts
  • Wow Writing Workshop: https://wowwritingworkshop.com/
  • Grammarly: https://www.grammarly.com/
  • The previous episodes with Dr. John Durante: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/141 & https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/156
  • The College Admissions Process Podcast https://www.collegeadmissionstalk.com/
  • John’s episodes with Michael Usino: https://www.collegeadmissionstalk.com/temple-university-michael-usino-college-admissions-process-college-application-higher-education-admissions-criteria-college-essays-campus-visits-recommendation-letters-application-deadlines-application-tips/ & https://www.collegeadmissionstalk.com/aspiring-nursing-students-College-Admissions-Nursing-Education-School-of-nursing-Nursing-Programs-Nursing-Careers-Nursing-Tips-Medical-school-Insights-temple-university/
  • The previous episode with Jon Rice: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/041-nursing-program-admissions/
  • The previous episode with Jaime Smith: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/140-avoiding-the-pitfalls-of-college-transfers-with-jaime-smith/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
flourishcoachingco.com/vid

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Brian discuss:

  • Strategies for maximizing college scholarships given by the institutions
  • The difference in merit vs. need-based financial aid
  • The role of GPA and standardized testing, ACT and SAT, in scholarship awards
  • Colleges with merit scholarship grids where students can know the amount they can earn for good grades and scores
  • Transparency of college financial aid policies

Key Takeaways:

  • Merit aid is often more predictable than need-based aid because many colleges offer fixed scholarships based on GPA and ACT and SAT scores, making it easier to estimate college costs.
  • Skipping standardized tests can cost students thousands in scholarships, as many schools that are “test-optional” for admission still require test scores for merit aid or reduce the award if applying test optional.
  • At some universities, it is possible to calculate the number of additional correct answers on the ACT a student needs to raise their merit aid award, making test prep a highly valuable investment.
  • Over 90% of scholarship money comes directly from colleges rather than private sources, meaning that researching a school's financial aid policies is more effective than chasing small external scholarships.

“When the airplane is going down, you put the mask on yourself first—you first, your kids second. The merit aid from the school is the 'putting your mask on yourself'… after that, if a kid has free time, definitely apply to some of the outside scholarships.” – Brian Eufinger

About Brian Eufinger: Brian Eufinger is the President of Atlanta-based Edison Prep and has tutored over 14,000 students for a combined 35,000+ hours on the SAT, PSAT, and ACT over the past two decades. A founding board member of the National Test Prep Association, he is frequently invited by school districts across the Southeast to lead out-of-state ACT boot camps. Brian is passionate about tracking test-optional admissions data and sharing strategies for reducing college costs through merit aid and scholarships. He regularly speaks on test prep, college admissions, and scholarships at PTSA meetings, webinars, and education podcasts.

Episode References:

Merit Aid Grids: https://meritaidgrids.com/
Student Email Template: How to Get Clear Answers About College Merit Aid https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/merit

042 Will grade inflation hurt your teen with Brian Eufinger? https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/042

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Brian Eufinger:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/edisonpreptutoring/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/edisonprep
Website: https://www.edisonprep.com/
Email: brian@edisonprep.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eufinger/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EdisonPrepTutoring

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Rebecca discuss:

  • Shifting from a deficit-based to a strengths-based model for career development for neurodiverse students
  • The importance of self-awareness in career planning and decision-making
  • How experiential learning enhances career exploration and job fit for all students
  • Challenges and strategies for neurodiverse students pursuing STEM careers

Key Takeaways:

  • Traditional education focuses on the deficits of neurodiverse students, but they thrive by recognizing strengths through tools like Myers-Briggs, Gardner’s Multiple Intelligences, CliftonStrengths, and the Birkman Assessment that both Rebecca Matte and Lisa use.
  • The Birkman Assessment identifies both behavior and workplace needs, helping students find roles where they thrive and avoid poor job fits.
  • As seen in Landmark College’s NSF grant program, experiential learning and mentorship guide students through outreach, projects, and internships to explore careers before committing. This approach can benefit all students.
  • Interdependence is crucial for neurodiverse professionals, as recognizing strengths and weaknesses helps them find complementary partners for better teamwork and career satisfaction.

“If you know yourself, you can find your compatible work partners and more readily identify and name the traits of someone with whom you might work.” – Rebecca Whittaker Matte

About Rebecca Whittaker Matte: Rebecca Whittaker Matte, M.S., is an Associate Professor of Education at Landmark College in Putney, Vermont, with nearly 30 years of experience in neurodiversity and learning disabilities. She holds a B.A. in English from the University of New Hampshire and an M.S. in Human Service Administration from New England College. A certified consultant for the Birkman Method and Gallup CliftonStrengths, as well as an ICF Certified Coach, she is a long-standing advocate of strengths-based approaches. As a co-principal investigator on the National Science Foundation’s Access to Innovative Education in STEM grant, she develops programming and mentorship to support low-income, neurodivergent students while also caring for her ill-mannered rescue dog and staying active as she ages.

Episode References:

  • Episode #043 College Major Identification with the Birkman Method: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/043-college-major-identification-with-the-birkman-method/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Rebecca Whittaker:

Website: https://www.landmark.edu/

Email: rmatte@landmark.edu

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-whittaker-matte/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Megan discuss:

  • Understanding the role of a school counselor
  • The benefits of independent educational consultants (IECs)
  • Collaboration between school counselors and Independent Educational Consultants
  • How families can get support navigating college admissions based on their budget

Key Takeaways:

  • Many school counselors manage an average caseload of 400+ students, handling not just college advising but also mental health crises, IEP/504 plans, scheduling, and graduation requirements, making it essential for families to stay proactive in communication.
  • IECs provide individualized guidance, helping students stay on track with applications while also reducing parent-student tension by acting as an external mentor and neutral advisor.
  • Many students do not absorb key college planning information the first time it is presented, making it crucial for parents to reinforce messages and for students to engage with multiple sources, whether through school counselors, IECs, or self-research.
  • Families of all budgets can access valuable college resources, including free podcasts, social media content, webinars, and local scholarship panels. At the same time, IECs often provide affordable hourly consultations or specific services like essay coaching.

“[Your school counselor’s letter] is the story behind your transcript, and it’s the story behind your letters of recommendation.” – Megan Rose

About Megan Rose: Megan Rose is a dedicated independent educational consultant with a background as both a high school social studies teacher and a school counselor at one of New Jersey’s top public high schools. With over 18 years of experience in education, she has guided hundreds of families through the college application process. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Education from the University of Maryland and a Master of Science in Educational Counseling from Monmouth University. As a fully licensed school counselor and an active member of IECA, NACAC, and SACAC, Megan remains committed to helping students find the right college fit while upholding the highest professional standards.

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Megan:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/collegesolutionswindermere/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CollegeSolutionsWindermere/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megan-h-rose/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Cindy discuss:

  • Summer programs as a college & career exploration tool
  • Enhancing college applications through summer experiences
  • The rise of STEM programs & growing competition
  • Choosing the right summer program & avoiding misleading claims

Key Takeaways:

  • Deadlines for selective summer programs are often in January or early February, with some as early as November and a few extending into April. Families should plan ahead to secure a spot.
  • Most summer programs on prestigious college campuses do not improve admission chances, and many are run by third-party companies rather than the universities themselves.
  • Students should document their experiences in real-time, either through journaling or voice memos, to capture meaningful reflections that can later strengthen college essays.
  • A handful of colleges indirectly favor applicants who attend their summer programs, but this is rarely advertised publicly. Independent educational consultants (IECs) may have insider knowledge of which programs provide an admissions edge.

“If you took the summer off, didn’t explore that interest, applied to that major at a college specializing in it—then found out you didn’t like it… now you’re a year or two in, money spent, and thinking—wait, I want to change my mind. For me, the biggest value is confirming interests or ruling them out.” – Cindy McCormick

About Cindy McCormick: Cindy McCormick is a dedicated college advisor who helps high school students find their best-fit universities. With degrees from UCLA and certifications from UC Santa Barbara and UC San Diego, she brings extensive expertise. Before founding CMCA, she taught in New York and California and later specialized in college applications and essay writing. She also coached competitive STEM teams, guiding students to global championships. As a mother of five, a Gifted and Talented educator, and an autism specialist, Cindy values each student’s unique journey, ensuring personalized and impactful advising.
Episode References:

  • Common App: https://www.commonapp.org/
  • Wow Writing Workshop: https://wowwritingworkshop.com/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Cindy:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cmcollegeadvising/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cmcollegeadvising

Website: http://www.cindymccormickcollegeadvising.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cindy-mccormick-cmca/

Email: cindy@cmcollegeadvising.com

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Dave Peterson discuss:

  • The role of personal narratives in college applications and scholarships
  • Winning strategies beyond academics and extracurriculars
  • The importance of future-oriented thinking for scholarship and college admission success
  • Fixing common mistakes students make and misconceptions about what matters most

Key Takeaways:

  • Organizations offering scholarships, including colleges, expect a return on investment (ROI), whether through goodwill, marketing, or future impact stories. Applicants should align their personal narrative with the scholarship provider’s mission.
  • Up to 90% of scholarship applications are disqualified simply because students fail to follow directions, such as formatting requirements or subject line instructions in emails.
  • While past academics and activities matter, they serve only as indicators of future success. Winning essays focus on how the student will make an impact, not just what they’ve done.
  • Many families mistakenly believe scholarships are only for high school seniors, but students can apply as early as grade school and continue throughout college.

“Basically, when you're applying for a scholarship, you're applying for kind of a job… you have to approach it as if you are applying for a job.” – Dave Peterson

About Dave Peterson: Dave is a father who wanted to ensure his son would not be burdened by student loan debt. However, he realized he had not saved enough money for his son's college education. So, he devised a plan for his son to earn scholarships. As a result, Dave's son graduated from college without any debt, having earned approximately $100,000 in scholarships. They paid only $1,500 for his son's entire college experience, including tuition, room, board, books, and fees. Dave now shares his knowledge about how to earn scholarships through his business, Scholarship GPS.

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Dave Peterson:

Learn about Dave’s Scholarship Course and get the FREE preview here: https://flourishcoachingco.com/scholarshipGPS

Twitter: https://x.com/DaveTheScholar1

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100080949485476

Email: dave@nodebtcollege.com

The Scholarship GPS Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-scholarship-gps-podcast-your-directions-to-a/id1617874078

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Dr. Karyn Koven discuss:

  • Importance of language study in education and future opportunities
  • Flexible and innovative alternatives for world language learning
  • College admissions considerations for world language persistence
  • Emerging credentials like the Global Seal of Biliteracy

Key Takeaways:

  • Persisting in language studies through high school and beyond can differentiate students in college admissions, especially since many students drop language studies early.
  • Innovative platforms like Language Bird offer flexible, personalized, and accredited language learning options, accommodating students with busy schedules or unique interests.
  • The Global Seal of Biliteracy certifies proficiency in languages and can be used on college applications, resumes, and LinkedIn profiles, validating skills for both academic and professional purposes.
  • American Sign Language (ASL) is the second most popular language at Language Bird and is widely accepted as a world language for college admissions.

“Persisting in the language that you choose in high school...can differentiate you from a lot of students.” – Dr. Karyn Koven

About Dr. Karyn Koven: Dr. Karyn A. Koven, Founder and CEO of LanguageBird®, has over 20 years of experience in curriculum development, college counseling, teaching, and building global university partnerships. A former high school administrator, counselor, and teacher, she has helped thousands of students gain top university admissions and visited over 100 colleges worldwide.

Seeing a gap in online world language education, Dr. Koven founded LanguageBird to provide live, one-on-one instruction, emphasizing real-time interaction for language mastery. LanguageBird offers high-quality, college-preparatory courses accessible anywhere. Dr. Koven earned her undergraduate degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a doctorate in Educational Leadership from UCLA.

Episode References:
Global Seal of Biliteracy: https://theglobalseal.com/
Common Data Set Initiative: https://commondataset.org/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Dr. Karyn Koven:
Website: https://www.languagebird.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/languagebird/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@languagebird
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/languagebird
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LanguageBird/
Twitter: https://x.com/Language_Bird
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karynkoven/
Email: kkoven@languagebird.com

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Katie Azevedo discuss:

  • The mid-year academic slump and its impact
  • The role of task and time management systems in student success
  • Shifting from passive to active learning
  • Guiding teens to take ownership through the right questions and tools

Key Takeaways:

  • Students often face three interconnected struggles mid-year: increased stress and overwhelm, poor academic performance, and low motivation. Addressing these issues requires concrete strategies.
  • Effective study habits rely on using active recall techniques (e.g., self-quizzing) instead of passive methods like re-reading notes, which can be misleadingly unproductive.
  • A combination of task management (breaking down assignments and responsibilities) and time management (creating a realistic schedule that includes downtime) is crucial for reducing stress and increasing productivity.
  • Parents can evaluate whether their teens are studying effectively by asking about their methods and encouraging practices like explaining concepts aloud or making flashcards, rather than merely reviewing materials.

“Motivation is temporary, and it’s really neat when it shows up, but we can’t count on it showing up…we need to rely on systems and strategies for when motivation doesn’t show up to the party.” – Katie Azevedo

About Katie Azevedo: Katie Azevedo, M.Ed., is a private executive function coach specializing in helping students and adults master learning and productivity strategies. With a master’s degree in special education, she focuses on supporting individuals with ADHD, ASD, and other learning challenges, working seamlessly alongside IEPs when needed. Since 2006, Katie has coached thousands of students on executive functions, study skills, test preparation, and writing, from grade 6 through graduate school. A mother of two, she balances her passion for teaching with a love of running, organization, and simplicity.

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Katie Azevedo:

School Habits University: https://www.schoolhabitsuniversity.com/

School Habits: https://schoolhabits.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schoolhabits/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SchoolHabits

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathryn-azevedo/

The Learn and Work Smarter Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/learn-and-work-smarter/id1719881389

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this special third-anniversary episode, Lisa steps into the guest chair with Doug Sandler, host of The Nice Guys on Business podcast. She reflects on the challenges, triumphs, and lessons that shaped her journey from high school teacher to transformative career coach and her mission to guide teens toward fulfilling futures. This episode offers a personal look at why Lisa believes clarity and the right guidance can make all the difference.

In this episode, Lisa and Doug discuss:

  • The evolution of college and career guidance
  • The impact of self-awareness on career success
  • Challenges in navigating modern educational and vocational pathways
  • Entrepreneurial growth, transitions, and building sellable businesses

Key Takeaways:

  • Many competitive college programs require students to declare specific majors during the application process, which can permanently close off certain career paths if not chosen early, emphasizing the need for informed decision-making.
  • The Birkman Method Personality Assessment provides a unique insight into both behavior and expectations, making it a powerful tool for aligning personal strengths with educational and career paths.
  • Careers in the trades, such as plumbing and electrical work, offer substantial financial and professional rewards, challenging the outdated perception that only college degrees lead to success.
  • Beginning career and college planning as early as sophomore year in high school allows students to explore their interests, identify potential obstacles, and ensure that choices align with long-term goals and aspirations.

“One of the myths that we bust around here is that kids can't figure it out, but with intention and by devoting a little bit of time and resources to it, they can. It is very figure-outable.” – Lisa Marker Robbins

About Doug Sandler: Doug Sandler is a podcast producer, author of Nice Guys Finish First, and co-founder of Turnkey Podcast Productions.

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Doug Sandler:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/doug-sandler/

The Nice Guys on Business Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nice-guys-on-business/id966086057

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Ann discuss:

  • The role of grades and GPA as a fundamental aspect of college admissions
  • Differentiating weighted versus unweighted GPA systems and their significance in the college admissions process
  • The value of understanding high school profiles and how they influence college application reviews
  • Finding a balance between academic ambition and emotional well-being in the high school years

Key Takeaways:

  • Colleges universally prioritize high school transcripts as the core admission criteria, focusing on both the GPA and the rigor of courses taken, as supported by National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) data.
  • A high school profile contextualizes GPA, course availability, and rigor to admissions officers, making it a crucial document for families to review early in high school.
  • Weighted GPAs, which add extra value for advanced classes, offer a clearer picture of academic rigor; students can explore tools like RecalculateMyGPA.com.
  • Striving for academic challenge should be done thoughtfully, aligning with personal strengths and goals to avoid burnout while ensuring well-rounded involvement in extracurriculars.

“Colleges don’t want kids who just have their nose down in a book. They want kids who are adding to their community and involved in extracurriculars. So that's why I'm really passionate about building that career awareness alongside that self-awareness as early as 10th grade.” – Ann LaFemina

About Ann LaFemina: Ann LaFemina is a lifelong educator with extensive experience in college admissions and counseling. She began her career supporting college-bound students in Long Island, New York, and later became an adjunct professor. After moving to Florida in 2008, Ann established a private consulting practice and led the college counseling program at Cardinal Mooney High School, where she earned the 2022 Outstanding Service Award. Specializing in diverse majors, she now provides personalized counseling as part of the JRA Educational Consulting team.

Episode References:

  • Re-calculate Your GPA the Same Way as Most Colleges: https://recalculatemygpa.com/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Ann LaFemina:

Email: ann@jraec.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlotte-ann-lafemina

JRA Educational Consulting: https://www.jraeducationalconsulting.com/

Winter Park College Consultants: https://www.winterparkcollegeconsultants.com/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Dr. John discuss:

  • Importance of understanding college admissions processes, including test-optional policies and supplemental essays
  • Role of financial considerations in determining college fit and navigating institutional aid policies
  • Strategies for demonstrating interest and aligning applications with college-specific priorities
  • Insights into creating balanced college lists to reduce stress and improve outcomes for families

Key Takeaways:

  • Using tools like the Common Data Set and Net Price Calculator provides crucial data about admissions rates, financial aid, and institutional priorities, enabling more informed decision-making.
  • Demonstrating interest, even for colleges that don’t officially track it, strengthens applications by improving supplemental essays and showing alignment with institutional missions and values.
  • Need-blind versus need-aware admissions can significantly influence outcomes; families should discuss financial constraints early and utilize FAFSA and CSS Profile for financial planning.
  • Many highly competitive schools have institutional priorities that may be beyond an applicant's control, such as geographic diversity or specific skill sets, emphasizing the need for balanced college lists.

“Don't be afraid to ask the questions, because I always say, every question that you don’t ask—frankly, the answer is no, or you’re not going to find out any information. So, you might as well ask the questions.” – Dr. John Durante

About Dr. John Durante: Dr. John Durante has dedicated over 30 years to education as both a teacher and administrator. Since 2010, he has served as the principal of Syosset High School, playing a key role in its recognition as one of the top high schools in the country. After helping his own daughters navigate their college journeys, he launched The College Admissions Process Podcast in 2022, which has become a valuable resource for students, parents, and college counselors.

Episode References:
Dr. Durante's new book "Straight from the Admissions Office": https://a.co/d/gHZe0wl
Book Giveaway: flourishcoachingco.com/colleges (Enter before January 19)
The College Admissions Process Podcast https://www.collegeadmissionstalk.com/
The previous episode with Dr. John Durante: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/141
How to Find the Common Data Set for Colleges: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/blog/demonstrated-interest-how-to-find-it-on-the-common-data-set/
Episode on Demonstrated Interest: https://flouriscoachingco.com/052
Episode on Institutional Priorities: https://flourishcoachingco.com/123

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Dr. John:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-durante-ed-d-248b35143/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa discusses:

  • Trends in highly competitive majors like computer science, nursing, engineering, and business
  • The importance of aligning high school coursework and extracurricular activities with the intended major
  • The differences between liberal arts colleges and universities in admissions by major.
  • Three categories of how colleges handle admissions by major: direct admission, mixed approach, and applying to the university as a whole.

Key Takeaways:

  • Most universities, even those that don't admit directly to a major, still consider a student's intended major in the admissions process
  • Only 4 out of 50 state flagship universities take a truly open approach to not pressing students on their intended major
  • Universities are looking for alignment between the applicant and what they’re looking to major in (even if they don’t admit students directly to a major).
  • Using well-crafted questions and templates, families can gather the info they need to build a realistic, strategic college list.

“I want to emphasize to my listeners the need for early planning and informed decision-making while our kids are still at home under our roof because once they step foot on campus, the colleges are not communicating with the parents…Your student has to fully engage and take advantage of the resources on campus. And I’ve found that the quality of resources vary from needs improvement to really fantastic.” – Lisa Marker Robbins

Episode References:

  • #123 College Institutional Priorities: Understanding Who Gets In with Aly Beaumont
  • #057 College Admission by Major with Andy Borst
  • Other Podcast Episodes: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/
  • Live Masterclass: https://courses.flourishcoachingco.com/nostress
  • The College Admissions Process Podcast: https://www.collegeadmissionstalk.com/

Ensure Your Teen's Success: Learn the Untold Truth About College Major-Specific Admissions:

Gain exclusive insights into admissions by major at all 50 state flagship universities. Our comprehensive research reveals which colleges require students to apply to a specific major, where it's easy to change majors, and where your teen's options may be limited.

https://flourishcoachingco.com/majors

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

https://flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Andy discuss:

  • Why some universities require students to apply directly to a major and how that affects admission chances.
  • How demand, faculty, and resources impact the number of students accepted into certain majors (like Computer Science).
  • Understanding why some programs aren’t open for major changes later, making the first choice critical.
  • When can your teen choose a second college major.
  • What to ask during campus visits to understand how majors shape admissions and graduation timelines.

Key Takeaways:

  • There is a school that is the right fit for every student, and it will take some research.
  • Universities and colleges have institutional priorities, including where students are applying from and what major they are applying for.
  • Trying to “game” admissions with a different major first often backfires.
  • Colleges are looking for future, happy alumni who can get a degree in a program that they're interested in and move on to talk about great things that they did at the university.
  • Highly competitive programs (often called restricted majors) are not available to transfer into after admissions.

"I don't like denying students; I want to find students who are most likely to do well on our campus and who are most likely to be impacted by admission to our institution." – Andy Borst

About Andy Borst:

Andy Borst is the Vice Provost for Enrollment Management at the University of Georgia (UGA). Formerly, when he was on our podcast, he was the Director of Undergraduate Admissions at the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, responsible for recruiting, admitting, and enrolling new freshmen and transfer students. Before joining the University of Illinois, he served in the same position at Western Illinois University from 2011 to 2016. Andy has also served on the Admissions Practices committee for the Illinois Association of College Admissions Counseling, which reviews and enforces ethical standards for college admissions in the State of Illinois. He earned a B.S. from Buena Vista University, an M.B.A. from St. Ambrose University, and a Ph.D. in Higher Education and Student Affairs from the University of Iowa.

Episode References:

  • Launch College & Career Clarity Course
  • UIUC Tool on Majors
  • #041 Nursing Program Admissions with Jon Rice

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Sharon discuss:

  • What sets the Birkman Method apart is different from other assessments for college and career clarity.
  • How your teen can use the Birkman as a starting point to understand themself - not just academically, but also to their environment and others.
  • How narrowing options can increase confidence and lead to more satisfying career choices.
  • Why focusing on the “next first step” rather than a “forever future” can ease the pressure when planning for college and beyond.

Key Takeaways:

  • Birkman is unique because it pinpoints the motivations behind behaviors without burdening students with multiple questionnaires.
  • Our needs and expectations are like the roots of a tree - they ground us and influence our personal health and well-being.
  • Things you enjoy during personal time are just as crucial as work for long-term fulfillment.
  • The Birkman system funnels all career possibilities into fewer select paths so your teen has options that are most likely to work for them.

“It's a broad world out there of career opportunities. If you look at your top three or four percentiles of interest, those are going to be excellent cues about a healthy direction for you to head, whether it's something that you do on the side that makes you happy, or whether it's included in your day job.” – Sharon Birkman

Episode Reference:

Is now the right time for your teen's College Major and Career Planning? flourishcoachingco.com/quiz

About Sharon Birkman: Sharon Birkman began her role as Birkman International’s President and CEO in 2002, becoming Chairman in 2022. As the daughter of company founder and influential industrial-organizational psychologist, Dr. Roger W. Birkman, Sharon cultivated her deep expertise in human perception and organizational behavior through her lifelong interest in The Birkman Method. Before succeeding Dr. Birkman as CEO, Sharon served in several roles including VP Corporate Relations, Training, and Career Coaching. Sharon’s leadership has been instrumental in ushering in a new era of product development, technology, and training initiatives during a time of unprecedented growth. In this period, Sharon and the business have been recognized with a multitude of awards. These include EY’s Entrepreneur of the Year in 2016, the Women President’s Organization’s Mary Lehman MacLachlan Award for Economic Empowerment in 2017, Houston’s Best and Brightest Places to Work For from 2014-2019, National Best and Brightest Places to Work For (2014-2018), the Houston Business Journal’s Women Who Mean Business Award in 2017 and 2018, and as a Houston Power 50 Woman Leader in 2018.

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Sharon:

Website: https://birkman.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharon-birkman-fink/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa, Keith, and Tejas discuss:

  • The value of student-led experiences and internships for your teen.
  • Building teen confidence, developing professional skills while still in high school, and using experiences to gain clarity about future careers.
  • The importance of your student getting involved in extracurriculars early in high school.
  • How to DIY opportunities through school-business partnerships for your teen.

Key Takeaways:

  • During your student’s freshman year, let them get used to the rigors of high school and encourage them to figure out how they want to get involved at school.
  • Confidence is a skill your teen will build through practice and pushing themself outside their comfort zone. The more your teen stretches, the more their confidence will grow.
  • Sometimes, an internship will confirm that the path is the right fit for your teen. But even if they find it is not the right fit, that is equally valuable.
  • As proficiency increases, passion also tends to increase in equal measure. Passion can grow with proficiency.

“It is really valuable for the student as a person and pushing them outside their boundaries and getting uncomfortable and all those things. But it's also valuable for the resume, the application, and building those experiences that make you who you are, and you can find those wherever you are.” – Keith Koehne

About Keith Koehne: Keith Koehne has always wanted to have the greatest impact on the greatest number of students possible. He has a passion for leadership and connecting education with business leaders for the benefit of students. He is honored to serve as the Executive Director of the INTERalliance of Greater Cincinnati, whose mission is to fill the regional IT talent pipeline by inspiring, developing, and retaining exceptional high school students.

Episode References:
Tips for Sending Student Emails that Get a Reply: https://flourishcoachingco.com/email

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with INTERalliance:
Website: https://interalliance.org/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-interalliance-of-greater-cincinnati/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/interalliancegc/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/interalliance/
Mastodon: https://mastodon.social/@interalliancegc/
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/interalliance.org

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Vicki discuss:

  • How your teen’s school, you (as the parent), and your teen can work together to drive your student’s career development.
  • The right time for your student to begin thinking about their future career path.
  • Why your teen should be considering careers, not just college majors.
  • The difference between career development and career advising.

Key Takeaways:

  • Most school counselors have a caseload too great to also take on career counseling. They also are not trained to handle that aspect of counseling.
  • By November 1 of your teen’s senior year, they are starting to apply to colleges.
  • 42 of 50 state flagship universities require students to either apply directly to a college major or list their intended major in the application.
  • Career development is a lifelong process.
  • You do not want to wait until your student is in college to start career advising. Once they are there, some majors will no longer be available to them, and you cannot make them go to the career advising office.

“We as parents force, not on purpose, but force an agenda onto our kids. I think the school becomes this objective third party to kind of take care of business, so to speak.” – Vicki Weisbrod

About Vicki Weisbrod: Vicki Weisbrod is a detail-oriented school counselor who has been consistently praised as a forward-thinking student advocate by her colleagues and administration. Over the course of her 17-year career, she created an extensive counseling program from ground zero focusing on the college search and selection process. Seven years ago, she partnered with an organization to be the first greater Cincinnati high school to offer the Birkman assessment to their juniors. The program has evolved to include in-depth career exploration modules for all of their students. This

process has created a more thorough approach to the college counseling that their

team provides. In her tenure at Bishop Fenwick, she has sought opportunities to

grow their community whether it is through their counseling program or for the

greater good of the school.

Episode References:

  • #120 Experiential Learning: Unlocking Your Teen’s Career Path with Drews Mitchell
  • #040 Building Motivation & Stress Tolerance for Happy Teens

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Cheryl discuss:

  • Strategies to help coach your teen without becoming a helicopter parent.
  • How to identify when helping your teen is actually hurting them.
  • Why your teen needs to learn to fix things on their own before they reach high school graduation.
  • Transitioning from a parenting to a coaching role in your child’s life.

Key Takeaways:

  • Remind your teen of the wins that they had before they got to the big challenges they are facing.
  • When you helicopter parent your teen through high school, you prevent them from learning vital life skills they will need when they get to college and beyond.
  • In college, parents cannot call the financial aid office, professors, dean, or any other office for or about your student, even if you are paying tuition.
  • Helicopter parenting is not about your child. It is about you, the parent. Let your teen live their life, and go do those things you feel you’re missing out on for yourself.

“If you keep making these decisions for your kids, if you keep diving in and fixing everything, not only are you not giving them the skills they need, but I really believe it sends a message that you don't have any faith in them.” – Cheryl Pankhurst

About Cheryl Pankhurst: With an illustrious career spanning over 25 years as a Special Education Specialist, Cheryl has dedicated her life to understanding and supporting teenagers facing unique challenges.

Through her transformative journey, Cheryl discovered her true calling – to uplift and empower not only teens with diagnoses but every young person navigating the complexities of adolescence. Her groundbreaking podcast, 'Teen Minds Redefined,' serves as a sanctuary for parents seeking guidance and wisdom on the rollercoaster ride of raising teenagers. Through this journey Cheryl has discovered that the “guidance” for parents starts with themselves. In order to raise our humans to be their true authentic selves, we must start living and speaking our own truth. It’s not them; it’s you. That is the good news, it begins with us and as we gain new insights, shift our perspective find the joy and calm within us, it causes the “ripple effect” to the people we love and care about. Beyond her professional endeavours, Cheryl is also a devoted Mom of two beautiful humans, a daughter and a life partner. As a lifelong Yogi addicted to doing the inner work, speaking her truth, and shining her light, Cheryl strives to embody the values she preaches, inspiring others to live their true authentic selves.

Episode References:
Email Guide: flourishcoachingco.com/email

146 Overcoming Student Procrastination with Michelle McAnaney, the College Spy

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Cheryl:
Website: https://cherylpankhurst.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cheryl.a.pankhurst/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cheryl.a.pankhurst
Linked: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cheryl-ann-pankhurst-1b611855
Podcast: Teen Minds Redefined: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYv9FQy1X43wwoYg0zF8zAJw6-nCpHMAk

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Vida discuss:

  • How math contests can be a strategy for STEM-focused teens providing an edge with college applications and other opportunities.
  • Enhancing problem-solving and critical thinking skills through math contests.
  • How to get involved in math competitions, how contests work, and the best ways to prepare.
  • What you and your teen need to know about test prep, expectations, and acceleration.

Key Takeaways:

  • Sports are excellent, but they are not the only competition available to your teen. Participating in mathematics competitions, science olympiads, essay contests, or other academic competitions can help your teen to better understand their academic subjects.
  • Due to high school grade inflation, external measures are often a better assessment of your student’s academic achievement.
  • Finding AMC math test locations can be difficult, but the test is open to anyone to try.
  • Academically talented students attend both state schools and elective colleges.

“I like it a lot because it does double duty. It helps them demonstrate their skills while they're in high school and get into the colleges that they want to get into. But then further, it helps them succeed once they get there.” – Vida John

About Vida John: Vida John is an expert on math competitions for students of all ages. A graduate of Stanford University School of Engineering, after working in technical fields and at start-ups, she retired to homeschool her daughters with an emphasis on rigorous academic instruction. With both kids attending Stanford, she returned to teaching students who are studying math at Art of Problem Solving and preparing them for math contests.

Episode References:

American Mathematics Competition: https://maa.org/student-programs/amc/
Math Kangaroo: https://mathkangaroo.org/mks/
American Regions Math League: https://arml3.com/
The Art of Problem Solving: https://artofproblemsolving.com/
AIME: https://artofproblemsolving.com/wiki/index.php/American_Invitational_Mathematics_Examination

098 How Your Teen Can Benefit from an Honors College with Sylvia Borgo

142 SAT, ACT, and Test-Optional Admissions: What Parents Need to Know with David Blobaum

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Vida:

Website: https://mathproblemsolvingskills.wordpress.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vidajohn/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mathproblemsolvingskills

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa discusses:

  • The ideal time to start career development with your student and why it’s a lifelong process starting in the early years.
  • The powerful ways early self-awareness will benefit your student.
  • Strategies for overcoming common obstacles for your teen to move forward in confidence.
  • Free resources that are available to support your teen's career advising before making critical decisions about their future.
  • How the Birkman® assessment and Launch Career Clarity® provide a structured roadmap for success

Key Takeaways:

  • Students will be in school approximately 16,000 hours from Kindergarten to Senior Year. On average, they will work 82,000 if they work after graduation until age 65 making career alignment critical to thrive in life
  • It is never too late to work on career development and advising, but there is an ideal time to start.
  • Starting early is for the best.; If your teen has already hit Sophomore year, it is go time!
  • Instead of looking at your teen as difficult or unmotivated, step back and ask if they are overwhelmed and need more support.
  • Your teen would likely rather hear advice from someone other than you, such as a coach, teacher, or mentor.
  • There are a lot of misconceptions and job fields that teens are unaware of, so it is important to research and explore.

“Career development is not a one-and-done. It's really important that we take two views of this. It's a long game - a marathon, not a sprint. But more importantly, that we start early, even in middle school, ninth grade, actually even younger.” – Lisa Marker Robbins

Episode References:

  • Is it the right time for College Major and Career Planning? https://flourishcoachingco.com/quiz
  • Bureau of Labor & Statistics Student Resources: https://bls.gov/k12/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Lauren discuss:

  • Different legal field career paths beyond litigation and the courtroom.
  • What a day in the office of a non-litigating lawyer looks like.
  • Essential skills and qualities needed for success and enjoyment as an attorney.
  • Valuable advice for high school students and those in college contemplating a legal career.

Key Takeaways:

  • In any area of law, reading and writing will be a constant throughout the work.
  • Your teen must have a STEM or engineering background to be a patent attorney.
  • Lawyers can choose the areas they practice that match their strengths. Not all family law is divorce law; if high-emotion conflict is not your teen’s strength, they can choose to practice law and avoid litigation.
  • Being a lawyer often requires a lot of sitting, focusing, reading, writing, and critical thought. If your teen is high energy, they will need to learn to manage that.
  • There are internships and jobs that students as young as high school can do at the courts or in law firms to help them decide if the law is a good fit while building their resume.

“Anyone who's interested in a career in the law, just know you can do it. It is challenging, but you can do it. You can get through it, and there are some really wonderful career opportunities on the other side of law school.” – Lauren McClain

About Lauren McClain: Attorney Lauren McClain focuses her legal practice on adoption law, third-party reproduction law, and Guardian Ad Litem representations. She is a distinguished member of the prestigious Academy of Adoption and Assisted Reproduction Attorneys. Lauren McClain earned her Juris Doctorate (JD) from Indiana University College of Law, Bloomington, IN in 2005. She also graduated magna cum lade degree from Purdue University in 2002. She is a biological and adoptive mother and enjoys spending her free time with her husband and four daughters.

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Lauren:

Website: https://laurenmcclainlaw.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-mcclain-5247185/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Michelle discuss:

  • The real reasons behind student procrastination.
  • Discovering which of the three types of procrastinators your teen is.
  • Practical strategies to help your teen overcome procrastination hurdles.
  • How to differentiate feelings from facts to accomplish important tasks on time.

Key Takeaways:

  • Procrastination is often not from a place of laziness. It is often a form of avoidance of a negative mood, particularly ones associated with a task.
  • Behaviors that are rewarded tend to be repeated.
  • It is better to be proactive in catching and mitigating procrastination behaviors as early as possible. Procrastination has a snowball effect that will worsen things when the stakes are high.
  • If you don’t understand why your student is procrastinating, it can be difficult to know which strategies to best help them overcome it.

“When you're feeling better because you're avoiding a task, you are more likely to continue to avoid the task which can lead to chronic procrastination.” – Michelle McAnaney

About Michelle McAnaney: Michelle McAnaney is the founder of The College Spy, a full-service independent educational consulting firm that assists students and families across the US and internationally with the college selection and application process. Prior to founding The College Spy, Michelle was a school counselor and educator for more than 15 years, including serving as the Director of Guidance at two high schools, an adjunct college professor, and a GED tutor. Michelle holds a master’s degree in school counseling and a bachelor’s degree in human development. She completed UC Irvine’s certificate program in educational consulting and is an MBTI (Myers-Briggs Type Indicator) Certified Practitioner and an NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming) Master Practitioner. Michelle visits many colleges each year so that she has first-hand knowledge of the colleges and universities her clients will be considering.

Episode References:
College Planning Timeline https://flourishcoachingco.com/timeline

040 Building Motivation & Stress Tolerance for Happy Teens https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/040

023 College Visit Tips from the College Spy https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/23-college-visit-tips-from-the-college-spy/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Michelle:
Twitter: https://x.com/thecollegespy
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecollegespy/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thecollegespy/
Website: https://thecollegespy.com/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa, Jeff, and Jennie discuss:

  • The different types of early college applications and what they each mean.
  • Navigation strategies and deadlines for early applications.
  • Which students will benefit from early applications, and which might not.
  • What the data really says about early application acceptance rates.

Key Takeaways:

  • Because Early Decision (ED1 and ED2) is a binding contract that the student, parent, and high school counselor sign stating the student will enroll if admitted, only one early decision application can be submitted.
  • Most colleges do not give an admission advantage for early action.
  • Single Choice Early Action and Restricted Early Action are two names for the same thing. Read the fine print carefully as the rules vary greatly by school.
  • Just because ED is available does not mean it is the right decision for everyone. If your teen isn’t in love with a school or is relying on financial aid, it is likely not the right choice.

“The data is not the reason why you should make your decision about where to apply ED. There are a number of reasons that I think are more important. Particularly, is this a school that you love more than any other school on your list?” – Jeff Levy

About Jeff: Jeff, an educational consultant since 2007 in Los Angeles, works with students worldwide. With over 20 years in the film and TV industry, he brings unique insights into creative and professional success. He's visited 300+ colleges, ensuring thorough knowledge of programs and campuses before making recommendations.

About Jennie: Jennie, a Certified Educational Planner, holds degrees from Northfield Mount Hermon School, Skidmore College, and Framingham State, with additional certification from UC Irvine. Active in her professional associations, she's visited over 500 schools to understand their cultures. Jennie compiles critical admission and financial aid resources and presents them globally, co-founding a virtual roundtable for new consultants to help others reach their full potential.

Episode References:
Early and Regular Decision Acceptance Rates: https://lookerstudio.google.com/u/0/reporting/60d2d60b-ce9c-400d-84e6-2f8576af18fd/page/p_92z1mm9d7c?s=oCkDSl5aSI8

123 College Institutional Priorities: Understanding Who Gets In with Aly Beaumont

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Jeff & Jennie:
Website: bigjeducationalconsulting.com

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Phil discuss:

  • Understanding the unique options available to students of military academies.
  • The diverse majors and career paths that are offered through the service academies.
  • Career paths, both military and civilian, for military academy graduates.
  • Early preparation for success at military service academies.

Key Takeaways:

  • If your student is smart, athletic, and/or interested in leadership, keeping their mind open to military service academies or the ROTC can give them more options.
  • Military officers are essentially the managerial layer of the military as an organization. About 15% of personnel fall into this category.
  • While military service academies may seem like the right financial fit, there are more requirements to get in, and there is a five-year commitment upon graduation.
  • The Naval Academy and Air Force Academy are very tech and STEM-focused. The Merchant Marine and Coast Guard academies are more certification-focused. However, these are not the only majors available.
  • Military service academies are not an automatic road to front-line heavy combat.
  • Your student should understand the opportunity costs for attending the academies. They should understand and ask themselves: if you don't get the community that you want, are you going to be okay with it?

“There are almost infinite options to be ‘away from combat’ if that's what they want to do. If you're a SEAL or you're a Marine or an Army infantry officer, you're electing to do that, you're not being forced to do that.” – Phil Black

About Phil Black: Over the past 30 years, Phil Black has built a record of unique accomplishments including: Div I college athlete, Navy SEAL Officer, Goldman Sachs Investment Banker, bootstrap entrepreneur, 2X Shark Tank contestant, firefighter, husband, and father of four sons. He earned a Bachelor's Degree from Yale University and an MBA from Harvard Business School.

Over the past 12 years, Phil has helped hundreds of students get into service academies, ROTC programs, and highly-selective traditional colleges. He has two sons who attend Yale on Navy ROTC scholarships, one son at the Naval Academy, and one son still in high school.

Episode References:
Westpoint Academy: westpoint.edu/academics/majors-and-minors
US Air Force Academy: academyadmissions.com/why/majors
US Naval Academy: usna.edu/Academics/Majors-and-Courses/index.php
US Merchant Marine Academy: usmma.edu/academics
US Coast Guard Academy: uscga.edu/academics/majors

070 Military Service Academies with Lisa Rielage

091 How ROTC Programs Train Future Officers & Help Pay For College with Lisa Rielage

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Phil:
Website: servewellacademy.com
Instagram: instagram.com/servewell_academy
YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCnhprNormPGjq6vRzvmpL4g

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Beth discuss:

  • Update on the recent delays in the 2024 FAFSA financial aid application.
  • Navigating the college funding process more efficiently without being dependent on FAFSA outcomes.
  • How to navigate financial aid filing deadlines for high school seniors and returning college students.
  • Strategies to reverse engineer college affordability and align your teen’s college choices with your family’s financial realities.

Key Takeaways:

  • There are excellent reasons to complete both the FAFSA and the CSS Profile, regardless of your income.
  • Schools evaluate households not only for need-based financial aid but also for merit-based financial aid and admission.
  • Filling out the FAFSA and CSS Profile does not mean your student is required to use the student loans for which they qualify.
  • The CSS Profile is more in-depth than the FAFSA. Filling out the CSS Profile in mid-October will prepare your family for FAFSA completion in mid-December.
  • When you complete financial aid applications between 10 and 45 days after they open, you’ll be near the front of the line for awards.
  • The CSS Profile gives families with multiple students in college more financial options than the FAFSA does with the recent FAFSA changes.

“If you're waiting for a government form to answer [if you can go to college], that isn't a plan. You can know that well in advance of completing those forms and you should.” – Beth Walker

Episode References:
FAFSA Site: https://studentaid.gov/apply-for-aid/fafsa/filling-out
CSS Profile Site: https://cssprofile.collegeboard.org/

About Beth Walker: Beth V. Walker is an openly obsessed, chronically consumed, notable nerd, regarding all things college. She routinely reduces families' out-of-pocket college expenses, saving them 25% - 50% on the cost of college.

Having spent 25 years as a wealth advisor, Beth understands the cash flow intensity of the college years, the impact paying for higher education has on current lifestyle and future retirement, and the challenges families face before, during, and after campus drop off. Beth has written two books – Never Pay Retail for College (2017) and Buying College Better (2024) and has created the MAGIC Method for giving families complete confidence in their choice of school.

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Beth:
Website: https://centerforcollegesolutions.com/
Book: https://www.amazon.com/Buying-College-Better-Complete-Confidence/dp/B0D3BF2LG2/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/centerforcollegesolutions/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/centerforcollegesolutions/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/center-for-college-solutions/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and David discuss:

  • Understanding how colleges use ACT and SAT scores in admissions.
  • Breaking down common myths about test scores and test-optional admissions.
  • How grade inflation impacts your teen’s GPA and admissions chances.
  • The latest policies for ACT, SAT, AP, and IB exams.
  • How much focus and time your teen should commit to test preparation.

Key Takeaways:

  • ACT scores are at a historical low. Currently, a score of 18 is the 50th percentile.
  • Test scores are more predictive of success in college than the high school grades.
  • In the absence of SAT Subject Tests, and especially when a school wants to be test-flexible, they're using AP exam scores more in admissions. For example, the University of California (UC) schools call themselves ACT and SAT test-free, but they do use AP and IB exam scores in their admissions process.
  • In general, if admissions officers see an AP class on your teen’s transcript, they will want to see an AP exam score to go with it.

“My best advice would be to try and learn the topics and skills that are most useful for succeeding in high school, in college, and beyond. And SAT and ACT scores are honestly a very good measure of how prepared a student is on that content.” – David Blobaum

About David Blobaum: David Blobaum is a nationally recognized expert on standardized
exams and college admissions. He is a graduate of the University of Chicago and has devoted himself to helping students reach their potential on the SAT and ACT and, more broadly, to help them succeed through education. In addition to leading Summit Prep, he is on the Board of Directors for the National Test Prep Association and serves as its Director of Outreach to help highlight how academic standards can help students, schools, and society.

Episode References:

  • Common Data Set Video: https://flourishcoachingco.com/cds

  • 060 Say Goodbye to the Paper SAT Test

  • 072 Summer is the Key to Academic Success with David Blobaum

  • 100 Can You Really Trust What Colleges Say Matters in Admission? with Rebecca Stuart-Orlowski, David Blobaum, and Becky Priest

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with David:
Website: https://summitprep.com/
Website: https://davidblobaum.com/
Twitter: https://x.com/SummitPrep_
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/summit_prep/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and John discuss:

  • Identifying the controllables and the non-controllables during your teen’s college application process.
  • What your teen should include on the college application to ensure they are accurately representing themself.
  • What should be included on your teen’s activities list in their application.
  • The accessibility of admissions representatives.
  • Tips for writing college essays.

Key Takeaways:

  • Colleges want to know first whether your teen can handle the work once they’re on campus.
  • The admissions reps look at your student’s transcript in the context of their high school - meaning what is offered, how your student challenged themself, and how they performed.
  • Anything not included on the application is left up to the admissions rep to speculate as to why it was left off. Make sure to include things like family situations, jobs, and medical challenges, that would explain why your student’s grades or activities might look different than expected on the application.
  • Essays should add something new to your student’s application beyond what is included in their transcript and activities list.
  • There are over 4000 schools in the US, and there is something for everyone. However, not every school is going to be the right fit for your student. Be mindful of what the right fit is for your teen, not anyone else.

“Don't reach out to ask anything that's easily accessible on their website. You want to be mindful of reaching out with a question where you're showing them that you put a little bit of thought into it that you, you know, research their website, perhaps you went on a tour, and you have a follow-up question.” – John Durante

About John Durante: Dr. John Durante has been an integral part of the Syosset school community since 1994, serving initially as a teacher of world languages and assistant principal before assuming the role of Principal at Syosset High School for over 14 years. Throughout his distinguished career, Dr. Durante has been honored with numerous awards, including the prestigious Best Principal on Long Island accolade from the Bethpage Federal Credit Union in 2016. He is also a recipient of the esteemed PTA Founders Day Award and Jenkins Award, reflecting his unwavering commitment to educational excellence.

For more information about "The College Admissions Process Podcast" or to listen to the insightful episodes, please visit www.collegeadmissionstalk.com or contact Dr. John Durante at: collegeadmissionstalk@gmail.com.

Episode References:

057 College Admission by Major with Andy Borst

123 College Institutional Priorities: Understanding Who Gets In with Aly Beaumont

John’s Podcast: https://www.collegeadmissionstalk.com/
Start with Why by Simon Sinek: https://simonsinek.com/books/start-with-why/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with John:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-durante-ed-d-248b35143/
Website: http://www.collegeadmissionstalk.com/
Email: collegeadmissionstalk@gmail.com

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Jaime discuss:

  • How to prevent unplanned future transfers for your teen.
  • What a “planned transfer” is, when it might make sense, and when it won’t work.
  • Common reasons why over ⅓ of undergraduate students transfer.
  • Articulation agreements between colleges that can benefit transfers.

Key Takeaways:

  • More than ⅓ of undergraduate students transfer at some point. It should not be a hush-hush topic. Transferring is not shameful.
  • Planning to start at a community college should not be stigmatized. Amazing community colleges exist, and their successful graduates do amazing things in our communities.
  • If your student’s only reasons for transferring are social, consider other options within their current school first. Transferring will not usually solve the problem, but changing roommates or joining clubs might.
  • When applying to school, your student is not looking for a school they can get into; they are also looking for a school they can graduate from with a degree—that’s the ultimate goal.
  • Reach out to admissions offices and transfer specialists. Your student should ask questions and do their research.

“If you have a student who's not really sure what they want to study, it is much cheaper to explore different options and different kinds of majors at a community college than it is to go all in at a four-year university on a major you're not sure about and then have to pivot later.” – Jaime Smith

About Jaime Smith: Jaime Smith, M.A., MS.Ed., is a Certified Educational Planner with 25 years of experience in the field of education. After many years of teaching English at the middle, high school, and college levels, Jaime turned to online education and founded a virtual K-12 supplementary education program, OnlineG3.com, where she continues to teach gifted and twice-exceptional homeschooled students. As a college advisor, Jaime specializes in transfer admissions, application essays, homeschoolers, neurodiverse learners, and other non-traditional applicants. In 2023, she completed a Post-Master's Certificate in Transfer Leadership and Practice at the University of North Georgia in collaboration with the National Institute for the Study of Transfer Students, and is a fervent advocate for transfer support. She blogs about transfer credit and admissions at https://www.transfersavvy.com and is working on her first book, a guide to college transfer, due to be published in the fall of 2025.

Episode References:

119 How to Change Your College Major Successfully with Kaci Kortis

Transfer Savvy Resources: https://transfersavvy.com/transfer_statistics/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Jaime:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/transfersavvy
Website: https://transfersavvy.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaime-smith-cep/
Email: jaime@transfersavvy.com

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Lee discuss:

  • Why it’s a myth your teen’s college application needs 10 extracurriculars.
  • Creative ways to demonstrate leadership beyond traditional titles.
  • Ideas for furthering your teen’s leadership experiences, whether they’re just starting high school or beginning their college application process.
  • How to think about your teen’s activities list as newspaper headlines.
  • The importance of doing an extracurricular audit for your teen.

Key Takeaways:

  • Your student does not need to have 10 separate activities. Admissions counselors understand certain activities, such as sports, take more time than others. They will want to show leadership, not just time-filling activities.
  • Your teen does not need to have played a sport to be a compelling candidate on their application.
  • Understanding the categories on the Common App for the activities. This will help your student see that they’ve done more than they often think they have.
  • No activity is worthless if your teen learned something. But not every activity needs to be continued if it doesn’t resonate, doesn’t lead to your student’s future career, or they don’t enjoy it.
  • Leadership is a lifelong pursuit, not just during your student’s high school career.

“When we look at those activities, we want to show and not tell. We want to know that 10 doesn't mean 10, and we want to be able to just account for what we did in our free time.” – Lee Norwood

About Lee Norwood: Lee Norwood is a dedicated professional committed to helping students successfully navigate the college admissions process As the owner of AnnapolisCollegeconsulting.com and the founder of collegesharks.com, Lee brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her award-winning consulting practice.
Lee Norwood is a trusted partner for families seeking guidance on the college admissions journey, and she is committed to helping students find their authentic voices and identify growth opportunities that align with their passions. as they pursue their higher education goals.

Episode References:

Lee’s Leadership Video: https://flourishcoachingco.com/leadership
Leveling the Playing Field: https://www.levelingtheplayingfield.org/
Common App: https://commonapp.org/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Lee:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/collegesharks

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/collegesharks

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AnnapolisCollegeConsulting/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annapoliscollegeconsulting/

Website: https://annapoliscollegeconsulting.com/

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@collegesharks

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa, Lisa, Abby, and Stefanie discuss:

  • Busting myths about your teen’s personal statement on their college application.
  • If your teen should write about personal hardships.
  • How to focus on being authentic, not being unique.
  • The four-question rubric your teen needs to address when writing their essay.
  • The role of parents in allowing their teen to make the decisions about their essay topic.

Key Takeaways:

  • Your teen is unique and has the opportunity to write about those things that matter to them, even if they have not had a lot of hardship in their life.
  • If overcoming a hardship or challenge is part of your teen’s identity, it may be the right thing to write about. This will not be the case for every student.
  • Your student’s essay should be very clear about who they are. It doesn’t have to be perfect, but it does need to be understandable.
  • Kids have a lot of great stories, but they want to ensure they tell the right stories that share their strengths and portray them correctly. Not every great story is a great story for what colleges want to know.
  • The four questions your student should consider are: what motivates you, what are you thinking about, how do you interact with others, and how do you solve problems?
  • Your student’s essay should be easy to write. Find a topic that is easy for them to write about and if it isn’t easy, it may not be the right topic.

“They don't want to see something that's too polished, and if they see something too polished, they're going to put it aside. You write your story and it will come through. And that's really powerful.” – Stefanie Forman

About Lisa Bleich: Lisa Bleich is the Founder and CEO of College Bound Mentor, LLC and the author of Surviving the College Application Process: Case Studies To Help You Find Your Unique Angle For Success She cohosts the College Bound Mentor podcast. She mentors students from all over the world on the college application process, graduate school and careers helping them uncover their strengths and develop a personal plan for success. Lisa holds a BA in European Cultural Studies with French minor from Brandeis University and an MBA from Harvard Business School. She lives in New Jersey with her husband. Her three daughters have all successfully survived the college application process and beyond!

Episode References:

Johns Hopkins Essays that Worked: https://apply.jhu.edu/college-planning-guide/essays-that-worked/

084 How to Write the “Why this Major” College Essay with Lisa Marker Robbins

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with College Bound Mentor:

Website: https://collegeboundmentor.com/

Email: info@collegeboundmentor.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CollegeBoundMentor

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/collegeboundmentor/

Podcast: https://collegeboundmentor.com/category/podcast/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqLGZJznS73b9oh3NAVPd7Q

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Tovah discuss:

  • The nuisance stressors your teen has to handle every day.
  • Building resilience in the face of uncertainty.
  • What it means to be a buffer for your child.
  • Parenting styles that have been beneficial or harmful to building resiliency in teams.
  • Why you have to work on yourself to build resiliency in your children and teens.

Key Takeaways:

  • Stressors happen to your teen every single day. Helping them through these nuisance stressors will help them build the resilience to handle any stressor.
  • As a child’s arousal to the stressor increases, the parent tunes in to the child to connect with them in what they need. Over time, your child will learn to manage that stress on their own because they know they are not alone.
  • Holding healthy boundaries helps your children build resilience. Boundaries can come from a gentle place of care and communication and aren’t harmful. Children need their parents to make the hard decisions and hold those boundaries.
  • Building resilience in your child begins with you.

“It’s so important that parents be forgiving of themselves because it is in this relationship that our teens learn how to succeed, however, you want to define success, and resilience is part of that success.” – Dr. Tovah Klein

About Dr. Tovah Klein: Tovah P. Klein, Ph.D. is a psychology professor at Barnard College, Columbia University; Director of the Center for Toddler Development; and author of Raising Resilience: How to Help Our Children Thrive in Times of Uncertainty and How Toddlers Thrive: What Parents Can Do Today for Children Ages 2-5 to Plant the Seeds of Lifelong Success. In her roles as a researcher and professor and in direct care with parents and children for over thirty years, Klein has helped to define what every child needs to thrive, regardless of their life situations. Working worldwide with programs addressing the needs of children, she is highly sought after as a developmental expert on a range of timely topics and an advisor to children’s media and organizations, including National Geographic Kids, AppleTV+, The Children’s Museum of Manhattan, the Hunts Point Alliance for Children, Room to Grow, and Ubuntu Pathways South Africa.

Episode References:

040 Building Motivation & Stress Tolerance for Happy Teens with Ned Johnson https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/040-building-motivation-stress-tolerance-for-happy-teens/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Tovah:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tovahklein
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/howtoddlersthrive
Website: https://www.tovahklein.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tovah-klein

Preorder her latest book, releasing 09/03/2024, at: https://www.tovahklein.com/books

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Mollie discuss:

  • The biggest uncertainties students and parents have around theater and other performing arts majors.
  • The distinction between getting a BA or a BFA while in school and beyond.
  • Practical skills that students learn when majoring in theater.
  • Starting early in the admissions process for theater and performing arts majors.
  • The monetary investments required to best prepare for performing arts majors.

Key Takeaways:

  • BA majors are liberal arts majors that work similarly to any other BA, like history or English, and are great for students who want a traditional college experience.
  • When students are still deciding which path to take, they should consider their desired college experience.
  • Many campuses have a student-run theater that your student can get involved with even if they aren’t a theater major. It will require some sleuthing to know what is available at each college or university.
  • Visiting campus is vitally important for theater majors and performance arts majors. Your student will want to meet the faculty and start building those connections even before they’re on campus as a student.
  • Musical theater is more competitive and rare as a major than other theater majors. Its admissions rate is about 2%.

“Knowing that you're a good fit with the program and with the faculty is really, really invaluable, especially when it comes around to the audition process.” – Mollie Reznick

About Mollie Reznick: Mollie began her career as a college counselor nearly 15 years ago when she joined her mother’s successful consulting practice. She then worked and volunteered at several different New York City schools and non-profit organizations, helping some of the city’s most underserved students with the college process, before finding her way to Collegewise in 2022. While she enjoys working with a broad array of students, as a former theatre major, Mollie has a soft spot for working with aspiring theatre majors (and those interested in the visual and performing arts).

Episode References:
131 Exploring Liberal Arts Colleges: Benefits and Fit with Anne Ingersoll https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/131-exploring-liberal-arts-colleges-benefits-and-fit-with-anne-ingersoll/
130 Pathway to Becoming a Pilot: Admissions and Career Insights with Penny Linsenmayer https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/130-pathway-to-becoming-a-pilot-admissions-and-career-insights-with-penny-linsenmayer/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Mollie:
Website: https://collegewise.com/
Email: mollier@collegewise.com

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Johnny discuss:

  • The pressures students are under from all directions.
  • How parents can recognize when their students are struggling and how to help them.
  • Culturally immersive programs and how they can burst the bubble students are living in.
  • Creating change with important life experiences for your student.
  • Learning valuable life skills during transformational experiences.

Key Takeaways:

  • Students are pressured from all directions by family, peers, society, culture, teachers, and more. Many students don’t know that they can go down alternate paths than those they feel prescribed for them.
  • Struggles will be unique to each student and will look different for each of those students.
  • Travel can provide your student with a break from the turmoil of everyday life, allowing them to figure out who they are and what matters most to them.
  • There are more opportunities than people realize, and life is a marathon, not a sprint. Cultural experiences allow students to see some of the opportunities that they may not have known about otherwise.
  • Being college-capable and being college-ready are two different things.

“Exposing our young folks, especially those who don't have a lot of world experience, to art, history, music, food, community, language, all of those things, is medicine for the soul.” – Johnny Tock

About Johnny Tock: Johnny is a licensed professional counselor with over 15 years experience working within a variety of therapeutic environments for teens and young adults. His experience includes: a treatment program specifically focused on internet and video game addiction, a therapeutic boarding school, group homes, a wilderness program, community mental health facilities, and a high school directly affected by trauma. Through individual, group, and family therapy, he helped guide his student’s experiences in an effective way that elicited substantial growth and identity development.

Johnny strongly believes that relationship-building and connection are the most important part of creating change and growth. His passion and strength can be seen in his relationships with students, colleagues, and referring professionals through heightened communication, follow-through, and positivity.

Episode References:

013 The Many Advantages of a Gap Year https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/13-the-many-advantages-of-a-gap-year/

062 Gap Year: Is it a better freshmen start? https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/062-gap-year-is-it-a-better-freshmen-start/

Dots Excercise: flourishcoachingco.com/dots

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Johnny:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spain_abroad/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ExperienceSpainAbroad

Website: https://www.spainabroad.com/

Email: johnny@spainabroad.com

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Matthew discuss:

  • Common misconceptions regarding the cost and accessibility of private colleges.
  • Advantages of private colleges many do not know about.
  • How to understand and evaluate a college’s mission and values.
  • Recognizing financial aid opportunities and understanding the true costs and benefits of private colleges.

Key Takeaways:

  • Even if a school is faith-based, that does not mean every student is part of that religion. Students grow, and the best conversations are had when hard questions are asked.
  • Look at the About Page of colleges and universities. What they say and don’t say will tell you a lot about that institution’s priorities, values, and mission.
  • Your student should get their feet on campus before they enroll. While virtual resources are great, visiting should be a priority before enrolling.
  • Very few families will pay the full price of tuition at private schools.
  • Many of the smaller, private institutions operate like a village where there are activities throughout the day that lead to deeper relationships and community involvement that may not be available at larger universities.

“Private institutions typically will be more focused on mission and have a values orientation to the work that they do that ties in the curriculum, but also the structures of the institution. It's important for students and families to explore what an institution is about.” – Dr. Matthew Ward

About Dr. Matthew Ward: Matthew Ward, Ph.D., Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Success is responsible for strategic enrollment management and student success at California Lutheran University. Ward leads a division of more than 180 employees including the offices of admission, academic services, financial aid, athletics, analytics, and marketing. Involved in several national organizations related to enrollment management, marketing, and Hispanic higher education, he has authored papers and chapters and provided thought leadership on enrollment strategy, marketing higher education, building campus diversity and equity, and becoming a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI).

Ward teaches “Policy Development and Political Influences in Education” and “Administration in Higher Education” for the Ed.D. in Higher Education Leadership program at Cal Lutheran.

A former visiting scholar at Centro de Investigación y Docencia Económicas (Center for Economic Research and Teaching) in Mexico City, he earned a master’s degree and a doctorate in International Studies from the University of Miami.

Episode References:

111 Mythbusting In-State v. Out-of-State Universities with Cristiana Quinn

115 Making the Final College Decision with Marni Levine

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Matthew:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-ward-75a10b/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Jessica discuss:

  • The three types of college support services for neurodiverse students.
  • Recognizing what support services your student used in high school including invisible supports they may need to be successful.
  • How to assess the quality of disability services at colleges.
  • Preparing your neurodiverse teen for independence and self-advocacy.

Key Takeaways:

  • Learning differences, from dyscalculia to autism to ADHD and so many more, are on a wide spectrum, and each student has different needs. You will want to identify what was most important for your student’s success.
  • The invisible support structures are those not on an IEP. They may look like medication support, parent monitoring of school work, or even waking your student in the morning.
  • It is a team approach to support your student in high school with written and invisible structures. It should also be a team approach to understanding what is key to your student’s success going into college.
  • By ADA regulations, all colleges that receive federal financial aid must provide basic support. But if your student needs more coordinated or structured support, you will want to seek that out during the college search process.
  • The admissions office does not speak with the accessibility office - you and your student should speak to those support offices directly.

“You have to understand that that IEP does not go to college, so it will not look the same. High schools have to ensure success. Colleges only have to ensure access.” – Jessica Nelson

About Jessica Nelson: Although Jessica didn’t initially set out to work in college admissions after earning her B.A. in Speech Communications from Miami University (OH) and M.A. in Interpersonal Communication from the University of Iowa, a temporary position as an admissions counselor at Eckerd College in St. Petersburg, FL, turned into a career spanning over 16 years in college admissions and college counseling, including a stint as an application reader at Georgia Tech.

Over the years, Jessica has become a trusted expert working with students with learning differences and helping them find colleges where they can thrive.

Jessica is currently a college counselor with Collegewise, one of the largest private counseling companies in the United States. Collegewise’s 70 admissions experts help students identify the best possible school they can flourish in while also bringing a sense of calm and joy to the college application process. When not working with students, Jessica lives in southern Vermont with her spouse, two kids, two cats, and a flock of backyard chickens.

Episode References:
Resource Library: https://collegewise.com/resources
Wiser Notes: The Collegewise Blog: https://go.collegewise.com/
Upcoming Collegewise Webinars & Seminars: https://collegewise.com/seminars

47 The Neurodivergent College-Bound Journey with Eric Endlich

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Jessica:
Website: collegewise.com/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Jyoti discuss:

  • Strategies for applying to Computer Science Majors and related STEM majors.
  • STEM majors that are alternatives to computer science that may be a better fit for your teen.
  • The importance of demonstrating intellectual curiosity, problem-solving skills, and community impact in college applications.
  • The differences between Mathophile, Discoveror, Innovator, and Implementor in their career

Key Takeaways:

  • Most students who say they want to major in computer science do not understand what the major actually entails.
  • For STEM fields, admissions officers are looking for intellectual curiosity and problem-solving skills. Passion projects can help your student to demonstrate this during their admissions process.
  • When applying to Computer Science, those students who are looking at CS in interdisciplinary ways, such as within the fields of finance or health care, stand out from other applicants.
  • The engineering technology curriculum has a hands-on component, and the math level is lower than that of an engineering curriculum.

“For STEM fields - engineering fields, computer science - the admissions officers looking for that intellectual curiosity and those problem-solving skills. I would say a student needs to really start exploring early on and look for those interdisciplinary research projects are based on their interests.” – Jyoti Jain

About Jyoti Jain: Jyoti has a Master’s in Chemistry from Baylor University and an MBA in Hospitality and Marketing from Golden Gate University. She is an active member of Western Association of College Admissions Counseling (WACAC) and professional member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA).

She found her passion for college counseling while helping her own child through the college admissions process and decided to pursue a certificate in Career Planning and College Counseling from UC Berkeley Extension. Through extensive research and college visits, Jyoti has developed a deep understanding of a college's culture, educational philosophy, and academic programs specializing in STEM, Business, and Premed tracks. She believes that college is all about fit and is excited about working with students to find their best match.

Episode References:

057 College Admission by Major with Andy Borst

027 Differences between Engineering & Engineering Technology Majors & Jobs

125 Colleges Share How Admissions by Major Works with Lisa Marker Robbins

127 Showcasing Your Teen’s Character & Curiosity to Colleges with Liz Krider

College Wise STEM Guide: https://go.collegewise.com/stem-guide
USC Viterbi Grand Challenges: https://viterbiadmission.usc.edu/challenges/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Jyoti:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jyoticollegeconsultant
Website: https://jaincollegeconsulting.com/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Anne discuss:

  • The benefits of liberal arts colleges and how to determine if they might be a good fit for your teen.
  • How liberal arts colleges differ from larger research universities.
  • Misconceptions about liberal arts colleges.
  • Helping your teen understand their learning style to determine the right type of school for them.

Key Takeaways:

  • There are considerably more small liberal arts colleges in the US than there are big research universities.
  • Many families rule out liberal arts colleges because they haven’t heard of them. But until a student steps foot on the campus and has clarity about their college major, it is hard to know if it will be a great fit.
  • Don’t rule out liberal arts colleges until you have more information. There are opportunities available at smaller institutions that aren’t available at larger schools.
  • Visiting colleges and universities of various sizes, even if it isn’t the schools your teen is considering, can help them understand more about the type of school they are looking for.

“There are a lot of really great opportunities at liberal arts colleges; we just have to take that next step to do a little bit more investigation and, hopefully, set foot on a campus or two before you completely rule them out.” – Anne Ingersoll

About Anne Ingersoll: I am passionate about helping high school students and their families peacefully and successfully navigate the complex world of college admissions. This process is filled with much anxiety (and a touch of ego) but my goal is to remove that anxiety and focus on what's best for the student.
I began my college consulting work in 2001 at a private firm in Louisville, Kentucky, where I spent over four years as an independent college counselor.
Originally from Mishawaka, Indiana, I attended Butler University, earning a degree in Telecommunication Arts with a concentration in Japanese and Secondary Education. I earned my Masters in Education in 2009 from the University of St. Mary (KS). I have attended annual NACAC conferences and have served on the leadership team for GPACAC (Great Plains Association of College Admission Counseling).

Episode References:

098 How Your Teen Can Benefit from an Honors College with Sylvia Borgo
086 Advice for High School Athletes About Playing in College with Dave Morris
022 The College Bound Student Athlete Process
115 Making the Final College Decision with Marni Levine

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Anne:

Instagram: instagram.com/collegeboundassociatesllc

Facebook: facebook.com/CollegeBoundAssociates

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/anne-ingersoll-94618334

Website: collegeboundassociates.com

Email: anne@collegeboundassociates.com

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Penny discuss:

  • Different pathways for your teen to become a pilot
  • The unique college application process for professional flight majors.
  • Planning for unexpected costs with the path to aviation.
  • Medical requirements and certifications that help and hinder potential pilots.

Key Takeaways:

  • Your student can fly solo by age 16 and earn their private pilot license at age 17.
  • If your student majors in professional flight at a university or community college, they will be able to get their license with fewer flying hours by having done the FAA-approved curriculum through a college program.
  • Flying is not for everybody - not everyone is comfortable in small planes or even in the air. Figure out if your teen can handle it before applying to professional flight majors.
  • ADHD, wearing corrective lenses, or colorblindness are not immediate disqualifiers, but they can complicate the medical approval process requiring a longer amount of time
  • Start early! This is a pathway that requires a lot of additional time, steps, and expense.

“Make sure that you can get a class one medical. The college programs are all going to require you to show up with a class one medical or evidence that you can get it. You have to have that to fly commercially, and colleges don't want you investing a ton of time and money in a degree that's never going to pan out for you on the career side.” – Penny Linsenmayer

About Penny Linsenmayer: Penny is an independent educational consultant based in Texas. She's the co-founder of Pathway Admissions, LLC and is a professional member of IECA, a member of IECA's Subcommittee on Affordability, and a member of NACAC and TACAC. Her niche areas of specialization include a focus on affordability and aviation admissions.

Episode References:
R-ATP Approved Institutions: faa.gov/pilots/training/atp/media/Institutional_Authority_List.pdf
FAA Airman Medical Examiner: faa.gov/pilots/amelocator
HIMS Airman Medical Examiners (needed for mental health-related reviews): faa.gov/pilots/medical_certification/media/hims-ames.pdf
FAA-approved Neuropsychologists: faa.gov/ame_guide/media/FAA_Neuropsychologists.pdf
FAA-approved institutions for air-traffic control programs: faa.gov/jobs/students/approved-air-traffic-collegiate-training-initiative-cti-schools

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Penny:
Instagram: instagram.com/pathwayadmissions
Facebook: facebook.com/pathwayadmissions
Facebook Group: facebook.com/groups/RaisingAviationTeens
Website: pathwayadmissions.com
Email: penny@pathwayadmissions.com

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Lorna discuss:

  • Skills that will help your teen make connections and be a better candidate for college and career.
  • While students want more clarity on career paths, why they are feeling overwhelmed, and how they can be helped.
  • How students can take advantage of industries connecting with young talent earlier than ever before.
  • Tips for balancing your teen’s self-discovery while still providing guidance.
  • Steps for ruling out interests early before investing significant time and money.

Key Takeaways:

  • Great organizations are working to connect young people with businesses that are looking to solve real-world problems.
  • It is never too soon for young people to make connections with businesses and organizations.
  • Companies understand that technical skills can be taught, but human skills, soft skills, and durable skills are key to success in your teen’s future career.
  • Students can earn certificates and credentials while in high school that are accepted by colleges and universities, as well as helping with their future careers.
  • Knowing what your student doesn’t want to do is as important, if not more so, than what they do want to do. Even experiences that don’t turn out how they want or expect are valuable learning opportunities.

“Yes, you can participate in things that you love and are passionate about. And that doesn't detract from the fact that you can also be preparing to become this adult, the future self that you want to be and that will be happy and fulfilled while you're doing these things.” – Dr. Lorna Bryant

About Dr. Lorna Bryant: Dr. Lorna Bryant is the Head of Career Solutions for Pearson Virtual Schools. Lorna is a dedicated educator who has spent her 25+ year career working to identify and create the best educational and postsecondary options for children regardless of geographic, socio-economic, or other circumstances. As the first woman in her family to receive a high school diploma, Lorna understands the power of connections and relationships in setting young people on the path to successful and fulfilling careers. Facilitating those connections and relationships has been Lorna’s primary professional focus for the past decade. As a parent and an educator, Dr. Bryant has a particular interest in the needs of twice-exceptional students and has worked as a consultant in this field, presenting to school districts, state departments of education, and advocacy groups.

Episode References:

120 Experiential Learning: Unlocking Your Teen’s Career Path with Drews Mitchell

002 Julie Lythcott-Haims on How to Raise an Adult

Coursera: https://www.coursera.org/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
https://flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Lorna:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorna-bryant-6768696/
Website: https://connectionsacademy.com/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Dave discuss:

  • How Dave’s son graduated from college debt-free by earning over $50,000 in scholarships
  • The three main categories of scholarships.
  • How to uncover private scholarships.
  • A step-by-step guide for your teen to become a better scholarship applicant.
  • Why you should begin looking for scholarships as soon as your student is entering high school (or no later than the beginning of their junior year).

Key Takeaways:

  • Merit scholarships are offered by colleges and universities based on your student’s talents and achievements.
  • Need-based scholarships are entirely based on a family’s income and assets. Many families are surprised that they don’t qualify for these scholarships.
  • Private and outside scholarships are offered by third parties, often private companies or philanthropic organizations. Many students will find more success with these scholarships than with others as they do not have the same requirements as a merit or need-based scholarship.
  • Students can begin earning scholarships well before their senior year. Your student can also apply for scholarships throughout college.

“You should not rely on merit aid if you want your student to get through school debt-free or with as little student loan debt as possible. Now, you want to take advantage of it when it's there, but you definitely want to look at the other two categories, the need-based if you qualify (most people don't), so that leaves the private scholarships. And that's where a lot of people are just missing the boat.” – Dave Peterson

About Dave Peterson:
Dave Peterson, aka Dave The Scholarship Coach, is a father who was scared to death at the thought of paying for his son's college degree, and even more worried about his son being burdened with student loans. So, he educated himself on the world of scholarships and coached his son to win nearly $100,000 in scholarships. Now his son is a debt-free college graduate!

Dave also has a podcast and blog called "Your Daily Scholarship," where he features scholarship opportunities and interviews with experts from the college-prep landscape.

Episode References:
The Scholarship GPS Podcast - High-Value Extracurriculars For College Admissions & Scholarship Success
CCC #123 College Institutional Priorities: Understanding Who Gets In with Aly Beaumont
CCC #100 Can You Really Trust What Colleges Say Matters in Admission? with Rebecca Stuart-Orlowski, David Blobaum, and Becky Priest
College Planning Timeline: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/timeline
Scholarship GPS: https://flourishcoachingco.com/scholarshipgps

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Dave:
Twitter: twitter.com/DaveTheScholar1
Instagram: instagram.com/davethescholar1
Facebook: facebook.com/profile.php?id=100080949485476
Newsletter: nodebtcollege.substack.com
Podcast: nodebtcollege.podbean.com
Website: nodebtcollege.com

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Liz discuss:

  • How your teen can showcase their character and curiosity to stand out to colleges and universities.
  • How to evaluate your teen’s comfort zone bandwidth.
  • Steps for expanding your teen’s comfort zone.
  • Practical strategies for identifying problems that matter to your teen and turning them into a passion project.

Key Takeaways:

  • The two values colleges most seek in students are character and curiosity. These encompass traits such as resilience, personal growth, integrity, and responsibility.
  • Colleges will tell your student what they’re looking for on their website. It may not be as clear as a GPA or test score number, but the questions they ask on the application give you insight into what they’re seeking.
  • Learning from failure is a good thing in the eyes of college admissions officers. It demonstrates character growth and the pursuit of open-ended endeavors.
  • When your teen embarks on an open-ended project, that can be the catalyst for your student’s character growth.

“My advice to students in trying to think about evidence of their character and curiosity is to really practice uncertainty.” – Liz Krider

About Liz Krider: Known affectionately as “Dr. Liz,” she is founder of Passion Progress, a boutique consulting firm that helps high school and college students find purpose through projects. She is nationally recognized for her work on projects, which have become the “differentiator” for college admissions for high school students and for internship placements for undergraduates. She is the creator of the Impact Symposium, an in-person, live event where high school students present their community impact and research projects through TED-style talks. Dr. Liz has mentored hundreds of high school and college students over the past 20 years both inside and outside of the classroom. Her students have matriculated to the following universities: Stanford, Yale, Cornell, Brown, Georgetown, Duke, UC Berkeley, UCLA, Johns Hopkins University, Rice, Tufts, University of Notre Dame, NYU, Purdue, and many other top 75 colleges.

She holds a PhD in Chemistry from Caltech and has extensive experience in academic research for pre-college/college students, science policy, mentorship, and STEM education. Her career began in academic research and science policy at California Institute of Technology (Caltech) where she distinguished herself as an asset to research institutions wanting to translate their value to elected officials, policymakers, and donors. Author of scientific publications, teacher, and community volunteer, Dr. Liz is the recipient of numerous awards for her scientific, teaching, and advocacy work.

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Liz Krider:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-krider-ph-d
Website: passionprojects.net

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Sam discuss:

  • How Jewish students can find the right college fit and connect with Jewish life on campus.
  • The different levels of Jewish community engagement exist on campuses.
  • Encouraging your teen to understand what is important and truly matters to them around their faith and practices.
  • Using resources like Hillel International to uncover key strategies to help your teen find a supportive community and thrive academically and socially.

Key Takeaways:

  • Many students can and should be prepared that their relationship to their faith may change in their life. That could also be a product of their surroundings.
  • Hillel can help your student find the hub of Jewish life at their school and can help to compare student life at different schools.
  • Parents, allow your student to reach out and email the schools and organizations themselves.
  • Colleges love diversity and want teens to share their authentic selves. They want to create communities with different voices and perspectives. Don’t be afraid to share what matters to you.

“If it's important to you, and if it's authentic to understanding who you are, how you have evolved as a person, and your lived experiences, yes, the colleges want to hear about that. That is welcomed on college campuses. They do want to create communities of students who have different backgrounds and insights and perspectives, and your voice is valid as long as that's the story that you want to share.” – Sam Joustra

About Sam Joustra: Sam Joustra came to Collegewise after working in college admissions for ten years at three different institutions. She attended Goucher College as an undergraduate, and worked in admissions at Hampshire College, Vanderbilt University, and the University of Michigan. She loves applying her experience on the other side of the desk to her work with students, helping them choose the schools that are the best fit and helping them navigate the admissions process.

Episode References:

115 Making the Final College Decision with Marni Levine

Hillel International: https://www.hillel.org/
Tips for Sending Student Emails that Get a Reply: flourishcoachingco.com/email
College Wise Guide: Finding the Best-Fit College for Jewish Students: https://go.collegewise.com/finding-the-best-fit-college-for-jewish-students-white-paper

067 Who Should Consider Catholic Colleges with Dean Kilgour and Joyce Masek

076 Who Should Consider Christian Colleges with Jeremiah Gonia

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
https://flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Sam:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samjoustra/
Website: https://collegewise.com/
Email: samj@collegewise.com

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa discusses:

  • Using the clues from colleges to guide your family and manage expectations.
  • Understanding the differences in the two categories of colleges: liberal arts colleges and universities.
  • The role major-specific admissions plays at the two kinds of colleges.
  • The three categories of admissions by major that are found at universities and how it affects your teen being admitted.

Key Takeaways:

  • Liberal arts colleges focus on a solid undergraduate education and typically have smaller enrollment. Most are private and have few graduate degrees.
  • 73% of college students are attending public state universities.
  • Universities are looking for alignment between the applicant and what they’re looking to major in (even if they don’t admit students directly to a major).
  • Colleges and universities are looking for well-rounded classes. They expect students to have some level of career interest going into college.

“I want to emphasize to my listeners the need for early planning and informed decision-making while our kids are still at home under our roof because once they step foot on campus, the colleges are not communicating with the parents…Your student has to fully engage and take advantage of the resources on campus. And I’ve found that the quality of resources vary from needs improvement to really fantastic.” – Lisa Marker Robbins

Episode References:

  • #123 College Institutional Priorities: Understanding Who Gets In with Aly Beaumont
  • #057 College Admission by Major with Andy Borst
  • Other Podcast Episodes: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/
  • Live Masterclass: https://courses.flourishcoachingco.com/nostress
  • The College Admissions Process Podcast: https://www.collegeadmissionstalk.com/

Ensure Your Teen's Success: Learn the Untold Truth About College Major-Specific Admissions:

Gain exclusive insights into admissions by major at all 50 state flagship universities. Our comprehensive research reveals which colleges require students to apply to a specific major, where it's easy to change majors, and where your teen's options may be limited.

https://flourishcoachingco.com/majors

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

https://flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Heather discuss:

  • The behind-the-scenes of how admissions processes work at large universities.
  • What it means when the college says they do a “holistic review” and how your teen will be evaluated.
  • Why your student should give context to any weaknesses on their application
  • The importance of aligning your student’s activities with their intended major.
  • Ways to maximize your teen’s chance for success by utilizing the entire application.

Key Takeaways:

  • Your student should focus on their college applications in the summer before their senior year. Waiting until fall can be more chaotic and stressful once school is back in session.
  • The responsibility is on your student to give everything they needed on the application. Admissions readers don’t typically have the time to look up or ask for additional information or clarification.
  • Most admissions readers at large research universities will spend fewer than 10 minutes on your teen’s application.
  • Your student should take advantage of the Additional Information section to give context for any questions about their application. This is not another essay section and should be answered clearly and concisely.

“Most of the time, I do think the application captures what it needs to capture. If there is something - a gap, or a red flag, or a dip, or something crucial to understanding who you are as a student, that is not captured anywhere else - [the Additional Information is] where that can come into play.” – Heather Parry

About Heather Parry: Prior to starting Parry College Counseling, Heather worked in admissions and recruiting for a range of universities and graduate programs, including Western University of Health Sciences and the University of Washington, among others. Over the years, Heather has read thousands of freshman, transfer, and international applications; interviewed hundreds of students for admission; and networked with admissions counselors and professionals across the country.

Episode References:

  • Blueprint to Understanding Admissions by Major: flourishcoachingco.com/majors

  • 057 College Admission by major with Andy Borst

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

https://flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Heather:

Website: http://www.parrycc.com/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Aly discuss:

  • Common institutional priorities of colleges that drive admissions decisions for your teen.
  • Factors colleges consider beyond GPAs, test scores, extracurricular activities, and more (all outside of your student’s control).
  • Why where to apply and when to apply affect if your teen gets admitted.
  • What impacted majors are and how they can affect your student.
  • Clues colleges give about their institutional priorities and how you can find them.

Key Takeaways:

  • Colleges are more concerned about creating a graduating class as a whole than about your student specifically.
  • Students learn better when they are learning with people who are not exactly like them.
  • An impacted major at one college is not the same at another. You can utilize sites like College Navigator to understand how many students are graduating in a particular major.
  • It’s not the size of the school, it’s what your student does there that makes it feel bigger or smaller.
  • Being more selective does not make a school better; it just makes them more selective.

“This is a highly charged process these days. It's very emotional for families. It's very stressful for families. It's not a personal process. The reality is, this isn't really about you. This is really about what colleges need to create this diversified class.” – Aly Beaumont

About Aly Beaumont: Aly is the founder of Admissions Village, a family-focused, affordable, one-on-one college guidance consultancy. Aly and the Admissions Village team are deeply committed to making the college admissions process less stressful, and their success with this objective can be measured by both the growing number of referrals they receive as well as the repeat business of family siblings. Aly is also a founder and advisor to The College T, a website developed during the pandemic that connected high school students with college students and recent graduates so that first-hand information and experiences could be shared.

Episode References:
Video Resource: College Major Enrollment: How to Check Numbers Before You Choose: flourishcoachingco.com/blog/college-major-enrollment-how-to-check-numbers-before-you-choose
Aly’s Blog: It’s Not You, It’s Them admissionsvillage.com/blog/it-is-not-you-its-them
College Navigator: nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator

098 How Your Teen Can Benefit from an Honors College with Sylvia Borgo

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
https://flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Aly:
Website: https://www.admissionsvillage.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/admissionsvillage/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063556394346

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa, Amy, and Mike discuss:

  • How to know if your teen could benefit from test prep or can go at it alone.
  • What to look for when assessing the quality of different test prep options.
  • The differences between working with independent tutors and working with Big Box Companies.
  • Advice for your family on best practices for reaching goal scores.

Key Takeaways:

  • Preparing for a test is like learning anything else - most people need a teacher, coach, or tutor to learn best and prepare.
  • Utilizing official test preparation materials is an important part of preparing for standardized exams. They are the best for understanding how your student will likely perform on the exam.
  • School counselors cannot endorse any particular test prep tutors, but they may still have individuals they could recommend based on the experience of their students and word of mouth.
  • While you vet your student’s test prep provider, they also vet your student’s willingness and motivation.

“One of the values of a good test prep person or expert is they make the process more efficient, they make it more effective. And that goes a long way with students who are busy and looking for results as quickly as possible.” – Amy Seeley

About Amy Seeley:
Amy Seeley, a formally certified and licensed secondary education teacher, received her degree from John Carroll University. She began her career in test preparation in 1994 working for Princeton Review. After gaining valuable knowledge and experience as a part-time tutor, she turned that passion into a career with Townsend Learning Centers.

About Mike Bergin:
After 30 years of experience in every aspect of standardized test preparation, Mike Bergin knows what works in test prep and what doesn’t. A nationally recognized leader in test prep, Mike founded Chariot Learning in 2009 to deliver on the promise of what truly transformative, individualized education can and should be. Besides overseeing Chariot Learning’s national programs, Mike is an ACT Certified Educator who trains teachers across the country to implement critical skills and college and career readiness standards.

Episode References:
Tests and the Rest Podcast, The Reality of Grade Inflation: gettestbright.com/the-reality-of-grade-inflation
Lisa on Tests and the Rest, Strategies for Selecting a College Major on Time: gettestbright.com/strategies-for-selecting-a-college-major-on-time

060 Say Goodbye to the Paper SAT Test with David Blobaum

015 Unplanned Career Paths with Mike Bergin

061 COVID Impact on College Admissions with Amy Seeley and Cristiana Quinn

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Amy & Mike:
Website: testsandtherest.com
Amy’s Website: seeleytestpros.com
Mike’s Website: chariotlearning.com
Roots2Words: roots2words.com
Test Prep Tribe: facebook.com/groups/testpreptribe

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa, Tony, and Wilson discuss:

  • The critical role of getting involved in research and gaining experiences can play for students of all ages
  • The importance of student initiative and resilience in shaping successful future opportunities for your teen.
  • The fascinating career path of NASA astronaut and Space Shuttle Pilot, Tony Antonelli
  • How to teach your teen email and LinkedIn etiquette to help connect them to people and opportunity.

Key Takeaways:

  • It’s okay for students to be afraid - if a challenge is in the path of the thing you want to accomplish, you can push through to find success.
  • People who love their job and like teens will step up and give your student time to talk about careers, but your student needs to ask.
  • There are many paths to becoming an astronaut - it’s not a one-path career. The same might be said for your student’s passion. Support those passions.
  • Encourage your teen to jump at many opportunities they’re presented with. If it doesn’t work out, something else will present itself.
  • Your teen doesn’t need to go to an Ivy League school to qualify for significant opportunities. Opportunities can be found anywhere.

“It’s not where you start. It’s not what you struggle with. It’s whether or not you’re willing to put in the hard work to just push through your challenges.” – Tony Antonelli

About Tony Antonelli: Tony serves as a mentor and scholarship selection committee member for the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation. He is a retired Astronaut, Naval Aviator, and Test Pilot.

Tony graduated with a BS in Aeronautical & Astronautical Engineering from MIT in 1989 and a Master of Science in Aeronautical & Astronautical Engineering from the University of Washington in 2002.

Tony has accumulated over 4,700 flight hours in over 40 different kinds of aircraft and has completed 273 carrier-arrested landings. He is a Distinguished Graduate of the US Air Force Test Pilot School (Navy Exchange Pilot).

Tony joined NASA in 2000 as a pilot astronaut candidate. A veteran of two space flights, Tony logged 24 days, 3 hours, 57 minutes, and 35 seconds in space.

Tony retired from NASA in July 2015 and worked for six years at Lockheed Martin in various Executive roles.

About Wilson Turner: Wilson is a 2022 Astronaut Scholar who graduated from the University of Chicago with degrees in Molecular Engineering and Chemistry. He currently works as a launch engineer for SpaceX, where he works on the design, build, and testing of launchpad systems to support Starship - history's largest and most powerful rocket.

Episode References:
Astronaut Scholarship Foundation: astronautscholarship.org
Student LinkedIn Guide: flourishcoachingco.com/linkedin
Student Email Guide: flourishcoachingco.com/email

091 How ROTC Programs Train Future Officers & Help Pay For College with Lisa Rielage

008 A NASA research scientist’s geology career pathway

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Tony:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tony-antonelli-36690290

Connect with Wilson:
Instagram: instagram.com/turnerwr

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Drews discuss:

  • What experiential learning is, and how your student can engage in these types of opportunities.
  • The importance of beginning career conversations in middle school.
  • Different types of experiential learning (and the varying commitment levels each requires).
  • The power of asking “Tell me more?” and giving your student the reins to take control of their experiential learning.

Key Takeaways:

  • Consider both interests and aptitudes when helping your teen to unlock potential career paths.
  • Start laying the foundation to build awareness for your student as young as sixth grade.
  • Your student should be leading as you are assisting and supporting.
  • There are many ways for students to explore different experiences from job shadowing, to volunteering, to after-school experiences, or a high school internship, and so many more. If the opportunity doesn’t seem to exist, just ask because that can open doors for your student.

“There are so many neat ways for families to engage in the opportunities to see and experience the real world. And I love the fact that this can be looked at from an awareness piece, it can be from an exploration piece, it can be from a planning piece, it can be from a doing piece.” – Drews Mitchell

About Drews Mitchell: Drews Mitchell earned an MA in School Counseling from Xavier University and has been serving as a counselor since 2007. His responsibilities have included the development and implementation of career-related awareness and assessment systems, group practice as well as counseling for both students and clients as well as their families. Mitchell, a National Career Development Association (NCDA) Certified Career Counselor, enjoys the process of helping others to find success using Career Construction Counseling and cognitive-behavioral techniques. He recently presented at the 2023 NCDA Global Conference about experiential learning and will present again in 2024 about cultivating hopefulness. His memberships include Chi Sigma Omega, Omicron Delta Kappa, the NCDA, the Ohio Career Development Association, the Ohio Association of College Admissions Counseling, and the Ohio Career Development Association.

Episode References:

Student LinkedIn Guide: https://flourishcoachingco.com/linkedin
CareerOnestop https://www.careeronestop.org/
Roadtrip Nation: https://roadtripnation.com/
Common Data Set: https://commondataset.org/
Occupational Outlook Handbook: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/
The Birkman Assessment: https://birkman.com/the-birkman-method

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

https://flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Drews:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/LovelandPaths

Twitter: https://twitter.com/VisionCareers4U

Website: https://www.visioncareercounseling.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drews-mitchell-72b86551/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Kaci discuss:

  • Having early conversations on college majors with your teen and with the intent to listen.
  • Exploring university resources that help students who are unsure of their path.
  • Thinking about the full student and what to consider as they think about their major.
  • If it’s possible for all students to change their major after enrollment.

Key Takeaways:

  • Many, but not all, colleges have exploratory studies majors. Students and their families need to be wise consumers and do their own research on whether this is a good path.
  • The length of time in college can be extended if a student changes their major. Working with an advisor can assist your student to the best path forward.
  • Some majors are more difficult than others to get into and may require certain coursework before admittance.
  • Talk about values with your teen. Talk about interests with your teen. Let them talk and listen to what they have to say instead of directing what you want for them.

“Starting the conversation early, having the conversation looking at majors, using resources to start that conversation, those are all great things to start. And that way the student knows the conversation is open with their parent, and they can continue as they look at colleges.” – Kaci Kortis

About Kaci Kortis: Kaci Kortis currently serves as an Advising Director at a large university in Cincinnati. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Education and a Master's degree in School Counseling. Her professional journey includes roles in the education department of a museum and teaching high school social studies, before starting her transition to working in higher education. Over the course of her 12-year tenure in higher education, Kaci has assumed various roles, including advising exploratory students, transfer students, and those undergoing major changes in their academic paths. Throughout her career, her primary objective has been to guide each student in discovering their best-fit major and path forward. In her current capacity, she oversees a team of major change advisors and works to streamline complex university processes to enhance the student experience.

Episode References:

078 5 Essential Questions to Ask Colleges Before Submitting Applications https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/078-5-essential-questions-to-ask-colleges-before-submitting-applications-with-lisa-marker-robbins/

FREE Blueprint to Understanding Admissions by Major https://flourishcoachingco.com/majors

College Major Enrollment: How to Check Numbers Before You Choose https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/numbers

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
https://flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Kaci:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kacikortis/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Chris discuss:

  • What occupational therapy is and the different patient groups it benefits.
  • Various preparatory paths students can consider in high school and college as they consider OT or similar fields.
  • How to curate experiences, like job shadows, to discover if OT is the right path for your teen.
  • Resources for finding the right accredited OT school and taking advantage of extracurricular opportunities during the undergraduate years.

Key Takeaways:

  • Job shadowing is critical for deciding between speech therapy, physical therapy, and occupational therapy.
  • OT school prerequisites vary, so students must research the requirements for each school they are considering.
  • OT doctoral programs are very intensive three-year programs with no summers off.
  • Finding a work-life balance and not taking work home is an adjustment for new occupational therapists.

“When you’re in college, really take advantage of every opportunity that you can. Just jump in and join different clubs and doing things that spark your interest will really allow you to find what you have a passion for and what you want to do.” – Chris Robbins

About Chris Robbins: Chris is an occupational therapist working at UCHealth Memorial Hospital Central, a level 1 trauma center, in Colorado Springs, CO. Chris, her husband Marty, and their dog Cooper moved to Colorado in 2023 after Chris graduated with her doctorate degree in occupational therapy from Kettering College in Dayton, Ohio. Her undergraduate degrees are in biology and neuroscience with minors in Spanish and disability studies from Miami University. In her free time, Chris enjoys hiking, running, going to ballet class, and trying new coffee shops!

Episode References:

  • #113 Optometry Career Close-Up with Ted McElroy, O.D. https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/113-optometry-career-close-up-with-ted-mcelroy-o-d/
  • List of ACOTE Programs: https://acoteonline.org/all-schools/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

https://flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Kristina discuss:

  • Strategies for striking the balance between parental involvement and teen independence.
  • How to listen to and validate your teen's aspirations before giving advice.
  • Why parents need to have honest discussions about their college budget and their financial realities.
  • The importance of highlighting your student’s voice and ownership during the application process.

Key Takeaways:

  • You do not want to project your experiences, achievements, or failures on your student. They need to live their independent life, not your life vicariously.
  • If you believe your teen is wrong, you can still validate and empathize with them before redirecting them to more constructive thoughts and behavior.
  • It’s possible to help your students see the throughlines of their desires by asking why, without telling them your thoughts.
  • There are ways for you to talk to your student about college budget and finances without them knowing every detail of how much you make.
  • While the journey is the student’s it’s still possible for the parent to play an important, supportive role.

“Support has to be authentic and genuine from the parent, meaning if you're going to support your child in terms of their life, their outcomes, all those things, they have to feel that it's true.” – Kristina Dooley

About Kristina Dooley: Kristina L. Dooley is a Certified Educational Planner (CEP) and founder of Estrela Consulting, an Ohio-based independent educational consulting firm. Kristina has more than 20 years of experience working with students from around the world, navigating the complex college and school search processes. A first-generation college student, she graduated from Hiram College (B.A.) and Kent State University (M.A.).

In addition to her work with students, Kristina is an instructor for the University of California Irvine teaching College Consulting Resources, and also serves as a faculty member of the IECA Summer Training Institute for aspiring educational consultants.

Kristina is the Past President of the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA), and holds membership in AICEP, NACAC, and the Ohio and International Associations for College Admission Counseling (OACAC & IACAC). In her free time, Kristina volunteers for Beyond Type 1 and JDRF, and serves as a mentor for College Now Greater Cleveland. She resides in Northeast Ohio with her husband and their 13-year-old triplets.

Episode References:
Free Video: How to guide your teen to choose the right major, college, & career flourishcoachingco.com/course

048 Building Motivation & Stress Tolerance for Happy Teens with Ned Johnson

062 Gap Year: Is it a better freshmen start?

013 The Many Advantages of a Gap Year with Holly Bull

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Kristina:
Instagram: instagram.com/estrela_consulting
Facebook: facebook.com/EstrelaConsulting
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kristinadooley
Website: estrelaconsulting.com

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode Lisa and Deborah discuss:

  • How to guide your teen through college and career discernment.
  • The crucial role self-awareness through ongoing reflection and family conversations.
  • Types of real-world experiences that allow teens to explore interests and develop skills.
  • Supporting, not leading, your teen through their journey of building professional connections and independence.

Key Takeaways:

  • No matter how many resources your student’s school has, work still needs to be done at the family level, especially around self-awareness.
  • “Knowing thyself” is the purpose of education. It is about more than just a final destination; it is rather the accumulation of wisdom, truth, and beauty.
  • Integrate deeper questions into the regular rhythms of life.
  • Invite your teen to have curiosity conversations with those in the fields they are interested in. This will help them develop their imagination and identify potential avenues for internships and other networking opportunities.
  • Encourage your teen to explore opportunities they are interested in. They might like it, they might not, and that’s fine! Self-awareness is not a linear discovery process.
  • Teach your teen to see the throughline of what they enjoy and who they are. No matter how many occupations they may have, who they are and how they show up does not change.

“Helping students understand that part of this discernment process and knowing who they are is not done in isolation. They need to look to the wise elders around them that can speak truth and can give them some perspective.” – Deborah Allen

About Deborah Allen: Deborah Allen has been in education as both parent and professional for over 25 years. Her broad experience includes serving as a humanities instructor at both the high school and collegiate level, thesis coach, academic and career adviser, creating college counseling departments for private and public classical schools, and serving as a consultant for the Society for Classical Learning.

Deborah, founder of Athena College and Vocational Coaching, is a certified college counselor through NACCAP, who holds a BA in Communications from University of Florida, an MA in Humanities from California State, and a Professional Certification in Human Resource Development from University of Georgia, with post-graduate work at University of Dallas. She is a Highlands Battery Ability consultant.

Deborah and her family currently reside in Annapolis. In her spare time, Deborah enjoys volunteering as a master gardener and watershed steward, reading poetry, and traveling.

Episode References:
Ep 115 Making the Final College Decision with Marni Levine: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/115-making-the-final-college-decision-with-marni-levine/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
https://flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Deborah:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-allen-80005b139/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Marni discuss:

  • How to approach your teen’s final college enrollment decision from campus visits to financial considerations.
  • Key questions your student should ask themself when they’re stuck deciding between their final school choices.
  • Approaching how to navigate and leverage unexpected financial aid opportunities.
  • Alternative options to the standard college or university path that may be a better fit for your teen.
  • Navigating the complexities of choosing the right college along with your student’s best-fit major.

Key Takeaways:

  • In a typical year, students need to make a college decision by May 1. In 2024, some schools are pushing that date back to June 1 due to the FAFSA delays.
  • It is fine to apply to a school that your student has not visited, but they do not want to enroll in and attend a school that they haven’t seen for themselves. The best way to do so is the admitted student days in the spring.
  • Only 8 of the 50 state flagship universities don’t admit students directly to their major.
  • There are benefits to attending a “foundation school” that offers generous merit aid. Opportunities come at the top of the class: students, your professors will know you, and they’re more likely to recommend you for research, internships, and jobs.
  • Schools cannot take away their “yes” admission decision, so ask for what your student needs. Worst case, the school says no.

“Always ask and always do the research because the ultimate goal is to get a job. While college is fun, and it's a growth experience and a learning experience, it is about being able to come out an adult and you need to know that you've got about a degree that has value to you.” – Marni Levine

About Marni Levine: As an independent educational consultant, I have helped hundreds of families over the last 15 years by guiding them along the college admissions journey.
Most importantly, using the skills I learned as an Advertising/Public Relations major at Boston University and my love of storytelling, I’ve created a comprehensive program to help high school students develop a unique picture of who they are so that they can find and be admitted to the perfect fit college where they will shine!
Mentor, Professional Member IECA, Avid Reader, Dog Lover, Mom (and now Grammy) I am best known to all as COLLEGE MARNI!

Episode References:
How to Find College Majors Enrollment Numbers www.flourishcoachingco.com/numbers
College Navigator Search: www.collegenavigator.gov

062 Gap Year: Is it a better freshmen start? https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/062-gap-year-is-it-a-better-freshmen-start/

013 The Many Advantages of a Gap Year with Holly Bull https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/13-the-many-advantages-of-a-gap-year/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
https://flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Marni:
Website: https://www.collegemarni.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/collegemarni_/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marni.h.levine
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marni-levine-52b39015a

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Jess discuss:

  • Looking at school profiles can help you and your student better understand how their school uses GPA.
  • Understanding how colleges recalculate GPAs and how your student can use GPA calculators to better grasp their standing.
  • Identifying the five core classes that most colleges use to generate the recalculated GPA used in admissions and what grades won’t matter on the transcript.
  • Why grade inflation is a huge problem, including the inability of colleges to interpret a transcript accurately.

Key Takeaways:

  • GPA is not standardized across high schools, so colleges recalculate it. They typically only use core academic classes from 9-11 grade.
  • Weighted GPAs are not very meaningful since every school calculates them differently. Focus on unweighted core GPA. Grade inflation is also a major issue, making GPAs less reliable indicators of college readiness.
  • Colleges and universities do not typically see senior-year grades because of the timing of application deadlines.
  • While a weighted GPA or inflated grade might feel good to your teen or you, it does not help with college applications or add meaning to transcripts.

“A GPA is a grade point average. When you finish sophomore year with a 3.1, you're not actually going to be able to increase that GPA significantly by the end of junior year. That should not deter you from trying really hard to increase your GPA.” – Jess Chermak

About Jess Chermak: Jessica Chermak is an Independent Educational Consultant with over a decade of experience in academia and helping students navigate the college admissions process. She graduated from Chapman University with a BA in Psychology, and was awarded the SMART Scholarship to attend the University of Denver for an MA in Forensic Psychology. She is a Certified Educational Planner, a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Professional Member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association, and has served on the board of the College Consultants of Colorado.

Episode References:
Arizona State University GPA Calculator: registrar.asu.edu/grades-and-records/gpa-calculator

042 Will grade inflation hurt your teen? flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/042-will-grade-inflation-hurt-your-teen/

110 How to Know if College is Still Worth It flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/110-how-to-know-if-college-is-still-worth-it/

University of California Required Courses and Grades admission.universityofcalifornia.edu/admission-requirements/freshman-requirements/subject-requirement-a-g.html

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Jess:
Website: virtualcollegecounselors.com/
Email: info@virtualcollegecounselors.com
X: twitter.com/VirtualCollegeC
Instagram: instagram.com/virtualcollegecounselors/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/virtual-college-counselors/
Facebook: facebook.com/TheVirtualCollegeCounselors
YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UC9IMV1yWMBhLBhJ68zwaNlA

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Ted discuss:

  • What optometrists do and how they help people enhance their quality of life.
  • Essential skills and qualities for those who will have a long and successful optometrist career
  • Understanding the path from high school to graduate school for optometry.
  • The competitive nature of optometry school and the state-specific regulations aspiring optometrists must navigate.

Key Takeaways:
Optometrists work with all ages, including infants, to catch any vision issues.

  • Ophthalmology and Optometry have different but equally rigorous requirements. Optometrists work closely with Ophthalmologists for advanced eye care needs.
  • Optometry school is very competitive; strong grades in science courses are important. Consider taking sciences outside of just biology, physics, and chemistry beginning in high school if available.
  • Laws regarding what optometrists can do vary by state, so research where your teen may want to practice. Don’t rely on your student’s advisor to know everything; students should do their own research.

“If you’re planning on doing this, do it because you love it. Optometry is not going to make you rich. Medicine is not going to make you rich. There is never a job they will pay you enough to do. It is about doing it because you care about people, and you want to take care of people.” – Ted McElroy, O.D.

About Ted McElroy, O.D.: Ted McElroy, OD, founded his practice, Vision Source Tifton, in 1994 in Tifton, GA. In 2004 he served as the Georgia Optometric Association President and in 2016 as President for SECO International. Ted was the recipient of the 1997 GA Optometric Association’s (GOA) Young Optometrist of the Year, the 2005 GOA Optometrist of the Year, the 2009 GOA Bernard Kahn Award Recipient, and the 2022 GOA Georgianne Bearden Excellence in Leadership Award.

Ted enjoys speaking to optometric students on the joys of private practice and assisting aspiring practice owners. He has served on the Speaker’s Bureaus for Alcon, CibaVision, and VSP and is currently on the Speakers Bureau for Vision Source. He is an administrator for Vision Source and serves on the Administrator Advisory Board. Ted is an author published in Invision and Optometric Management, and has also served on the Optometric Management editorial board. He currently serves SECO International as the Chair for the MedPRO 360 committee, the Business Education Program of SECO International. Ted co-hosts the Eyecode Media Podcast with Drs. Chris Wolfe and Aaron Werner.

Episode References:

005 Advice for Students Considering Medicine and Healthcare Careers https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/5-healthcare-careers/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
https://flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Ted:
Website: https://visionsource-tiftonfamilyeyecare.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tedmcelroyod/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Jackie discuss:

  • The most significant overhaul of the SAT to date.
  • Exploring the new version of the SAT with a focus on the digital format, timing, and structure.
  • Insight as to whether the digital SAT better aligns with modern teens than paper testing.
  • The revamped SAT and how it compares to the ACT.

Key Takeaways:

  • With many universities, including Dartmouth and Yale, returning to requiring test scores, understanding SAT and ACT options is paramount for parents and students preparing to tackle the college admissions process.
  • Jackie found that more high school students are interested in learning about the SAT and improving their scores.
  • The students are adapting to new technologies, and many are ready for online testing. This opens conversations with parents and students about whether the online SAT or paper ACT is best for their student.
  • Part of test prep is not just learning the test but learning how to use digital tools.

“Even with the lack of information, it is a very easy test to navigate given it has consistent topics across the board.” – Jackie Pollina

About Jackie Pollina: Jackie co-founded J&J Test Prep, a test prep company that specializes in both SAT and ACT prep. J&J Test Prep offers private tutoring, intensive classes, and shorter-term classes (crash courses).

Jackie also co-founded No B.S. SAT Prep, an on-demand SAT prep platform for the new digital SAT. This platform boasts 200+ videos, 1700+ practice questions, and mimics all technological features of the digital SAT.

Jackie is a social media star: she runs @testpreptips, a test prep-oriented TikTok account with around 300,000 followers.

Episode References:

090 Should my teen take the Online ACT? with Adam Snoza https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/090-should-my-teen-take-the-online-act-with-adam-snoza/

060 Say Goodbye to the Paper SAT Test with David Blobaum https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/060-say-goodbye-to-the-paper-sat-test/

Desmos Calculator https://help.desmos.com/hc/en-us/articles/4406040715149-Getting-Started-Desmos-Graphing-Calculator
Bluebook: https://bluebook.collegeboard.org/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
https://flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Jackie:
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@testpreptips
Website: https://jjtestprep.com/contact
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jjtestprep/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jjtestprep

Connect with Lisa:
Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Cristiana discuss:

  • Families often default to in-state for financial reasons, but out-of-state can sometimes provide better financial and academic opportunities.
  • Why many schools are increasing the number of out-of-state students admitted.
  • Misconceptions that misguide families when considering where to apply to college.
  • The financial implications and academic opportunities available for students at different institutions.

Key Takeaways:

  • Private or out-of-state schools may have better financial aid opportunities than your in-state public universities.
  • In many regions of the country, tuition discounts are available in neighboring states.
  • Some college majors will require your student to attend school out of state or in a different region.
  • Admitting more out-of-state students brings diversity that might not be there otherwise.

“The biggest mistake families make is to look at sticker price.” – Cristiana Quinn

About Cristiana Quinn: Cristiana Quinn has been an independent college admission advisor for more than 15 years. To date, she has worked with more than 500 students and visited over 150 colleges and universities in the U.S., Canada, and Europe. Cristiana is a member of the National Association for College Admission Counseling and the New England Association for College Admission Counseling. She graduated from the Wheeler School in Providence RI, holds a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Vermont where she is a member of the UVM Foundation Leadership Council. She also holds a Master's in Education from the University of Massachusetts and completed the coursework for a Certificate in College Counseling from UCLA.

Episode References:
Free College List Building Tutorial: https://flourishcoachingco.com/list
Forbes Article, America’s Flagship Universities Are Turning Away From In-State Students (Jan 26, 2024) https://www.forbes.com/sites/michaeltnietzel/2024/01/26/americas-flagship-universities-are-turning-away-from-in-state-students/
Higher Ed Data Stories, First-year student (freshman) migration, 2022 https://www.highereddatastories.com/2024/01/first-year-student-freshman-migration.html
Big Future College Search Tool: https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/college-search/filters
College and Career Clarity Ep 61: COVID Impact on College Admissions https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/transcripts/61-covid-impact-on-college-admissions-transcript/
College and Career Clarity Ep 87: Why Applying Early to Your College Of Choice Could be a Strategic Win with Julie Kelsheimer https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/087-why-applying-early-to-your-college-of-choice-could-be-a-strategic-win-with-julie-kelsheimer/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
https://flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Cristiana:
Website: https://collegeadvisorsllc.com/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa discusses:

  • Why Americans have lost faith in the value of college.
  • How to know if college is worth it for your student.
  • Strategies for understanding your family’s reasons for your teen going to college.
  • Identifying various career avenues and identifying the most suitable path for your child’s success.

Key Takeaways:

  • What might work for one of your children may not work for all of them. Make the college decision one child at a time.
  • The cost of college is rising. Like all significant investments, be a good steward and understand where and how you should spend.
  • Begin with the end in mind - college is a path to a career, not the be-all and end-all for your student.
  • Many employers are now equally or more focused on skills rather than degrees.
  • It is never too late to take the next step, find alignment, and make an informed decision about your student’s college journey.

“College capable does not mean college required. It’s okay to embrace being college-curious or career-committed. To do so is beginning with the end in mind.” – Lisa Marker Robbins

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

https://flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Cindy discuss:

  • How to make the most of summer for college-bound teens.
  • If pay-to-play programs are worth the investment for your student.
  • No-cost, meaningful summer enrichment options.
  • When to start making summer plans (and how to ensure your student doesn’t miss their crucial deadlines).

Key Takeaways:

  • Some summer programs have application deadlines in December, January, or even earlier.
  • Your student does not need to pay for programs to make their summer an authentic, enriching experience. With a little creativity, there are DIY options they can do that will give them a great experience.
  • Talk about what your student loves to do and discuss what they get to do, not what they have to do. There are ways to turn their interests into a learning and exploratory experience.
  • Pay-to-play programs do not guarantee your teen admittance at the college hosting the programs.
  • Try to balance the important downtime, pay-to-play, and DIY summer learning opportunities. They all offer different experiences and can help your student in different ways.

“Plan ahead. You do you, but think ahead about how you can take advantage of what you love and what you want to explore, then go out and just do something! Don’t languish!” – Cindy McCormick

About Cindy McCormick: Some people are lucky enough to have a career doing EXACTLY what they were born to do - Cindy is one of them. As a lifetime educator, she thrives on guiding high school students along their paths to college. She has her B.A. in Sociology & Diversified Liberal Arts, a California teaching credential, and a Master's in Education all from UCLA; an Instructional Writing Certificate from UC Santa Barbara; and a College Counseling Certificate from UC San Diego. Before college advising, she taught school in New York and California and then specialized as an essay coach for a college advising company.
Beyond teaching, Cindy led students on competitive STEM teams and worked with teens as an Eagle Scout project coach. At conferences and professional forums, Cindy shares her experience and knowledge with colleagues by presenting on various subjects, including tailoring counseling approaches to students' learning styles, producing summer application & essay workshops, and developing a comprehensive and impactful college advising curriculum.

Episode References:
Cindy’s list of curated summer programs: https://cindymccormickcollegeadvising.squarespace.com/summer-enrichment
Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
https://flourishcoachingco.com/video
Connect with Cindy:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cmcollegeadvising/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cmcollegeadvising
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cindy-mccormick-cmca/
Website: https://www.cindymccormickcollegeadvising.com/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Shara discuss:

  • Looking at social work careers in both macro and micro settings.
  • The educational and licensing path to becoming an LCSW.
  • The three tracts of a Social Work Master’s program.
  • Tips for preparing, taking, and succeeding on the licensure exams.

Key Takeaways:

  • Social workers work in every aspect of life, from birth to death, with individuals, organizations, and governments.
  • To qualify for an LCSW, your student would need a Master’s in Social Work. An undergraduate degree in social work is not required, though it can help build foundational knowledge and set them up for success in the graduate program.
  • Begin with the end in mind when considering social work as a college path and career, as it will take additional time in school, which costs more.
  • A doctorate is not required to work in social work unless your student ultimately wants to work in research or academia.

“When people hear social workers, they think of just child welfare. And we do so much more than that - you can find us in every facet of society.” – Shara Ruffin

About Shara Ruffin: Shara is an independently licensed clinical social worker and former psychotherapist from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She holds a Bachelor's degree in social work from Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania and a Master's degree in social work from Howard University School of Social Work. Shara has specializations in grief, personality disorders, family trauma, compassion fatigue, military counseling, mindfulness meditation, ADHD, and anxiety. Shara is a board-certified mental health Provider.

Shara is also a 5x-Amazon Best-Seller of a social work journal called, “90 Days of Prayer”. She is the author of her second best-selling social work journal “90 Days Of Inspiration”, which is a study companion for social workers taking their licensing exam.

Currently, Shara is the Founder and CEO of a consulting company called "Journey To Licensure". Her company combines wellness, clinical supervision, and professional development coaching to support social workers through licensure examinations. Shara's company "Journey To Licensure" was featured in Business Insider. Shara is also a LinkedIn Advisor and was most recently awarded "Top 15 LinkedIn Expert in Philadelphia in 2023.”

Episode References:
Community and Social Service Occupations: https://www.bls.gov/soc/2018/major_groups.htm#21-0000

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
https://flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Shara:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SharaRuffin
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shararuffin/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/journeytolicensure
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgN8adZqV-VOhFXXB15IOrw

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Natalie discuss:

  • Why everyone should face their inner critic.
  • Ways in which the inner critic shows up in teens and young adults.
  • Building the muscle of resiliency.
  • Strategy tools for silencing your teen’s inner critic.

Key Takeaways:

  • Having an inner critic is normal, but it does need to be addressed so the negative thoughts do not become your teen’s beliefs and actions.
  • It is important to tackle the mindset before tackling the inner critic. Building up the mindset and resiliency is the foundation.
  • Remind your teen that courage looks like confidence to an outsider. They should do things scared, and it will become easier in time.
  • Trial and error is the key to your student learning how to silence their inner critic. What works for one person will not necessarily work for someone else.

“It is the people who overcome setbacks that become successful in this world.” – Natalie Borrell

About Natalie Borrell: Natalie is a school psychologist and an academic life coach for teenagers. She and her team of coaches help tweens and teens build their confidence, get grades that they are proud of, and reduce their stress.

Episode References:

  • Think Up App: https://thinkup.me/
  • Life Success For Teens Masterclass: https://www.lifesuccessforteenswebinar.com/

Get Lisa's free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

https://flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Natalie Borrell:

Website: https://lifesuccessforteens.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifesuccessforteens/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LSFTcommunity/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Vince discuss:

  • The three different types of admissions interviews.
  • Benefits of participating in a college admissions interview.
  • How your student can demonstrate interest and show their voice to the interviewer.
  • Steps to prepare for admissions interviews.

Key Takeaways:

  • Typically, your student must have their college application submitted before they can interview.
  • Most admissions interviews are currently being done via Zoom. However, if it is in person and the interview is at someone’s house, do not allow your student to go alone.
  • Not all colleges and universities will do interviews. Don’t rely solely on the common application to know what the schools require and what is available to your student.
  • Be proactive and plan ahead. Your student will want to check their student portal and email regularly, as interview opportunities that were not available before may appear there.

“One of the ways I tell students to prepare is to always have five reasons they are applying to the school: three of them connected to their major interest, and two of them can be anything else unique to that school.” – Vince Garcia

About Vince Garcia: Vince is the co-founder and owner of Q&A College Admissions. A graduate of Occidental College, he has worked in college admissions, college counseling, and scholarship selections with students of all abilities since 1989.

In 2003, he created the nation’s first college admissions boot camp. During the college counseling application boot camp, high school seniors completed the Common Application, wrote admissions essays, developed a college admissions strategy, produced activity and achievement summaries, and practiced interview techniques. Vince has expertise in admissions in engineering, health, science, mathematics, athletics, learning differences, and the visual and performing arts. He has extensive training in college admissions as well as college counseling training through the Harvard Summer Institute on Colleges Admissions.

He has visited over 300 colleges in the US and abroad. Supported The Posse Foundation, College Summit, and The LA Gay and Lesbian Center

9 YEARS OF SCHOLARSHIP/FELLOWSHIP SELECTIONS
Dalai Lama Fellowship, National Merit Scholarship Corporation, The Point Foundation, and The Schwartzman Scholars

TECHNOLOGY
Co-founder and Creator of LikeLive, an online interviewing tool for colleges and universities. Created The Point Foundation Scholarship Application Website and Selection Tool.

Episode References:

052 Demonstrated Interest: How It Can Help Guide Your College Search: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/052-demonstrated-interest-how-it-can-help-guide-your-college-search/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
https://flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Vince:
Website: https://qacollegeadmissions.com/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Julie discuss:

  • Understanding your student’s goals before enrolling in Advanced Placement (AP) or Dual Enrollment (DE) courses.
  • Why your teen’s AP exam score matters more to colleges than their grade in the AP class.
  • How to know what your student’s desired colleges will accept for college credit.
  • Exploring academic, college major, and career interests through DE and AP courses.

Key Takeaways:

  • AP courses are standardized nationally, and they have a set curriculum as designated by the College Board. DE courses vary depending on where you live and how the DE course is being conducted.
  • Some selective colleges and universities do not grant credit for AP or DE courses but recognize them as preparation for college.
  • AP exams have a standard cost for taking the exam. DE course costs vary by state.
  • Admissions officers will consider what a student chooses to take with what choices are available to them. Your student will not be penalized if their high school has limited AP and DE choices.

“The key is knowing what your school district offers, sanctions, and has available to you.” – Julie Spak

About Julie Spak - Educational Consultant, Career Coach & Independent College Counselor:
Since 1985, Julie has been connecting students to their futures in her work as a College Admissions Officer, Financial Aid Officer, and Honors Program Counselor at the University of New Hampshire, where she received her M.Ed in Counseling and BA in Communication and English. Julie also worked as a School Counselor, so she knows how to help students and families from “both sides of the desk.” She is a past president of the New Hampshire School Counselors Association and a member of the Pennsylvania School Counselors Association and National College Advocacy Group (NCAG). Julie is Birkman certified. Working as a Career Coach & Educational Consultant combines all of her passions of helping students learn about their strengths and finding the best-fit college major and institution while keeping finances in mind. Julie’s coaching produces a stand-out college application and accelerates the career search during college and beyond.

Julie lives in suburban Philadelphia with her husband and two active teen boys, where there is never a dull moment!

Episode References:
College List Building Tutorial: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/list

018 How to Get Freshman Year Free with David Vise https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/18-how-to-get-freshman-year-free/

054 High School Course Selection Tips with Julie Spak https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/054-high-school-course-selection-tips/

069 The Ins and Outs of AP Courses with Megan Rose https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/the-ins-and-outs-of-ap-courses-with-megan-rose/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
https://flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Julie:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-spak-97093910/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Christine discuss:

  • When your student should begin developing their foundation for those application requirements if they are considering performance arts majors.
  • The transferable skills of students with a music or other performing arts major.
  • The commitment required for co-majors, double majors, and minors, and how they can ease student or parent concerns about performing arts majors.
  • How the statistics around performing arts and other arts careers can be misleading.

Key Takeaways:

  • Performance arts majors require extensive auditions, portfolios, and essays beyond regular college applications.
  • Preparing early (sophomore/junior year) is key for performance arts majors.
  • Many myths exist around performance arts majors being "starving artists" - many develop multiple income streams.
  • BA vs BM degree offers different flexibility for performance arts students.
  • Performance arts skills (time management, communication, collaboration) are transferable to other careers like medicine or law.

“For those students that are high achievers, I always tell the parents they're going to be fine no matter what they do. These are people that are motivated, they're driven, they're focused - that's more important than what you major in.” – Dr. Christine Gangelhoff

About Dr. Christine Gangelhoff: Dr. Christine Gangelhoff is an educational consultant who specializes in guiding students and parents through the rigorous and competitive performing arts college application process. As a first-generation college student with a passion for music, she forged her own path, finding innovative ways to fund her education and establish a successful career in the field of her dreams. She earned four degrees from colleges with renowned music programs – including Yale University – all funded through scholarships, grants, and student loans. Her career includes a diverse array of pursuits and achievements including work as a professor of music, performer, recording artist, arts administrator, published author and scholar, and educational and career consultant. She has a passion for helping young students to establish academic and career paths to achieve their musical goals and pursue their dreams.

Episode References:

029 Decision Coaching Tips for College Bound Families with Kirsten Parker

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
https://flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Christine:
Website: https://mysoundpath.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soundpathconsulting/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mysoundpath

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Beth discuss:

  • The changes to federal financial aid are set to begin in 2024.
  • Why parents should wait 10-15 days before applying with the new FAFSA application.
  • How to take back your family’s financial power and not rely solely on the government formula for your student’s education budget.
  • Strategies to handle the uncertainty of the college financial aid application process.
  • Shifting the paradigm so your family doesn’t end up college-poor.

Key Takeaways:

  • If your student’s chosen college has a hard deadline for the FAFSA application, ask them if they have any grace periods on that deadline. Many deadlines can be more flexible than families realize.
  • A known error in the formula in the 2024 federal financial aid application will result in many students and families receiving less aid this year than they will next year.
  • Government aid is only one piece of the financial puzzle and should not be the main indicator of financial direction for your student’s college experience.
  • Think about college like buying a house - your student will want to be clear on their must-haves and their nice-to-haves and understand the difference between those when making a decision.

“We can’t let the government formula dictate how we’re going to spend money…It’s only one piece of the puzzle, but it shouldn’t be driving the bus.” – Beth Walker

About Beth Walker: Beth is the author of Never Pay Retail for College. She is a mom on a mission, protecting parents during their most emotionally and financially vulnerable phase of life. Beth is all about helping other moms and dads create better futures - for the students heading off to college and the parents they leave behind.

Beth’s new book, Buy College Better (out in August 2023), will detail her formula for successfully
“buying” college while saving tens of thousands of dollars on the overall cost of getting kids on their path to a better future.

Beth’s college FICO® score philosophy has helped parents maintain their current lifestyle and stay on track for retirement while sending their kids to schools that provide that “right fit” education.

Beth is the founder of the Center for College Solutions, Senior Financial Specialist for Strategies for College, and a Wealth Advisor for Carson Wealth.

Episode References:

009 How Smart Parents Find the Right School for the Right Price with Beth Walker

046 How to Recession Proof Your College Bound Journey with Beth Walker

085 Upcoming Changes to Federal Financial Aid with Beth Walker

FAFSA Application: https://studentaid.gov/
College List Building Challenge: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/list

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
https://flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Beth:
Website: https://www.centerforcollegesolutions.com/
Email: beth@centerforcollegesolutions.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/centerforcollegesolutions.com/about/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/collegefundingcoaches/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

Although it can sometimes seem like it, admissions officers aren’t in the business of crushing your teen’s dreams. They want to make things possible for as many students as possible, and that’s where a college major-based admissions process can come into play. Each university can only accommodate a certain number of students in each program, so this type of application can help admissions staff focus on the students that are truly interested in the major and most likely to thrive.

When it comes to schools that admit by major, you might be surprised to learn that certain majors at these schools might be restricted to your student applying only as a 12th grader. For instance, if your child wants to study Computer Science at UIUC, they can only be admitted as a freshman or a transfer from another school. Your student must work in high school to identify a college major that aligns with their wiring.

Andy warns not to try to take a shortcut into these highly competitive majors by applying for a different major in the hopes of transferring into your student’s desired field later. Trying to game the system isn’t wise. In these cases, your teen will be better off attending a different university where they have an assured start in their top choice major.

Of course, this kind of application process can feel unfair to your high schooler who is just on the cusp of adulthood. That’s where the Flourish Coaching course Launch Career Clarity comes in. Our online course with live support aims to help your teen discover the right college major, so your teen finds the right college and has more favorable outcomes.

Highlights
What is college admission by major
What majors are among the most popular and, therefore most competitive
How do restricted majors eliminate options for many high school students
When can your teen choose a second college major
Question to ask colleges about admission by major

About Andy Borst:
Andy Borst is the Director of Undergraduate Admissions with responsibility for recruiting, admitting, and enrolling new freshmen and new transfer students to the university. Prior to joining the University of Illinois, he served in the same position at Western Illinois University from 2011 to 2016. Andy serves on the Admissions Practices committee for the Illinois Association of College Admissions Counseling, which reviews and enforces ethical standards for college admissions in the State of Illinois. He earned a B.S. from Buena Vista University, an M.B.A. from St. Ambrose University, and a Ph.D. in Higher Education and Student Affairs from the University of Iowa.

Episode References:
Launch College & Career Clarity Course
UIUC Tool on Majors
Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
https://flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode Lisa and Susan discuss:

  • What admissions officers really want your teen to write about in their personal statement
  • Why your student shouldn’t look at online sample essays
  • A good plan of attack for essays over the summer so your child finishes on time

Key Takeaways:

  • It is important for your student to know that a college essay is not just a writing assignment but an opportunity to show their best qualities and characteristics that enable them to reflect as well.
  • If you want to show a sample essay to your student, you also need to consider the entire application to avoid imitation and repetition and so to understand how the essay supports the rest of the application.
  • The student must understand the prompt well and maintain momentum in order to achieve a successful and effective college application essay.

“The real prompt is the schools want to know something about a student beyond what they’ve done. They’re looking for insight into their best qualities and characteristics.” – Susan Knoppow

About Susan Knoppow: Susan Knoppow is the CEO of Wow Writing Workshop. Wow teaches students and educational professionals a simple, step-by-step process for writing effective college essays so students can stand out and tell their stories. Susan and her business partner Kim Lifton are members or affiliates of the Michigan Association of College Admission Counseling (MACAC), the National Association of College Admission Counseling (NACAC), the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA), and the Higher Education Consultants Association (HECA). They write and speak regularly to high school, parent, and professional groups about the role of the college essay within the competitive admissions world.

Episode References:

Launch College & Career Clarity Course
Marni Levine Ep 065- https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/065-how-your-teen-can-get-admitted-to-the-college-they-love-with-marni-levine/
Andy Borst Ep 057- https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/057-college-admission-by-major/
Free E-Book: How To Write An Effective College Application Essay: https://wowwritingworkshop.com/free-student-book/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret). https://flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Susan:
Website: Wow Writing Workshop - Your College Essay Experts Blog: susanknoppow.wordpress.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanknoppow/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa, Rebecca, David, and Becky discuss:

  • A critique of the information and misinformation of the latest NACAC Annual Survey of Colleges.
  • The role of ACT and SAT scores even beyond the admissions process.
  • The impact of Institutional Priorities in the admission of students.
  • Colleges have differing expectations for various majors, including highly competitive majors.
  • Whether the ability to pay affects students’ admission rates.

Key Takeaways:

  • To understand what schools seek for admissions, the common data set is more important than the NACAC survey for the colleges your student is considering.
  • The survey does not reflect admission by major but is critical for your student to understand.
  • College is more than just getting in; it is also about affording college.
  • Test-optional admissions help the most wealthy students and the least wealthy students. It hurts those in the middle class the most.
  • Institutional priorities, like the ability to pay, influence admission but are not covered in the survey.

“We always have to take these surveys with a grain of salt. I encourage families to do their homework, to work with professionals, or to work closely with their school counselor to really understand the nuances of college admissions because until things change, it continues to be very opaque.” – Rebecca Stuart-Orlowski

About Becky Priest: Becky Priest is the College Counselor at The Cambridge School, where she has overseen the design and build-out of their college counseling program. She also has over 20 years of college financial aid experience at all levels. She is currently serving on the Classic Learning Test’s Board of Academic Advisors.

About David Blobaum: David Blobaum is a nationally recognized expert on standardized exams and college admissions. He graduated from the University of Chicago with honors. He co-founded and runs 1Summit Prep and he is the Director of Outreach for the National Test Prep Association.

About Rebecca Stuart-Orlowski: Rebecca Stuart-Orlowski has been an educational consultant specializing in profoundly gifted, 2E, advanced STEM, and homeschooled students for 11 years. She has a Specialized Certificate in College Counseling, a BA in Communicative Disorders, and 2 teaching credentials, Multiple Subjects w/ a Multicultural Emphasis & Communicatively Handicapped. She taught deaf, deaf/blind, LD, and 2E students for 4 years. She’s a member of IECA, cochair of the IECA Homeschool Affinity Group, and a member of NACAC and WACAC.

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Rebecca:
Facebook: facebook.com/OrlowskiCollegeConsulting
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rebeccastuartorlowski
Email: r.orlowski.consulting@gmail.com

Connect with David:
Website: davidblobaum.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/david-blobaum/
X: twitter.com/David_Blobaum

Connect with Becky:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/becky-priest-458b204b
Website: cambridgeclassical.org

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Annie discuss:

  • The Disability Tax teens with physical disabilities and health conditions face as they begin their college journey.
  • Differences in accommodations and support for your student college.
  • How a college technically complying with federal law is different from being 100% accessible for all students and what your teen should consider.
  • The adulting skills your student will need to learn regarding their health conditions.

Key Takeaways:

  • The ADA provides for reasonable accommodations. However, those can look different at different universities and colleges and even between programs at the same university or college.
  • There is no perfect college for all students with similar disabilities. The right fit is the one the student chooses after having done the necessary research.
  • Of the schools surveyed by United Spinal, only 16 colleges and universities were 100% physically accessible. Understanding the level of accessibility can be very important for your student and their needs.
  • Manage your expectations - surprises will pop up in college.

“The ADA, the Americans with Disabilities Act, also applies to the workplace. So when your student is seeking accommodations in college, that's a good training ground for thinking about what their needs might be later on once they graduate college and go into the workplace.” – Annie Tulkin

About Annie Tulkin: Annie Tulkin is the Founder and Director of Accessible College, as well as an educator, author and public speaker. She is an expert in the area of college preparation and transition for students with physical disabilities and health conditions. Annie was the Associate Director of the Academic Resource Center at Georgetown University for nearly 6 years. Annie has worked in the disability field for her entire professional career including positions as a Regional Disability Coordinator for Humanitas, Inc. working on the Job Corps disability support contract for The Department of Labor, and as a Project Specialist with the Association of University Centers on Disabilities (AUCD) where she worked with both the National Service Inclusion Project (NSIP) and University Centers of Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD) Technical Assistance projects.

Episode References:
Accessible College partnership with the Reeve Foundation
Navigating the Transition to College with Paralysis
United Spinal: Wheels on Campus-20 wheelchair-friendly campuses guide
Perkins School for the Blind-College Readiness Resource Center
How Can Students with Health Conditions Successfully Navigate the College Transition?
Job Accommodation Network

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
https://flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Annie:
Website: accessiblecollege.com/
Twitter: twitter.com/AcssCollege
Facebook: facebook.com/accessiblecollege
Instagram: instagram.com/accessiblecollege/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annietulkin-3b66b719/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Sylvia discuss:

  • Why Honors Colleges should not be an afterthought as your student is making their college list.
  • What an Honors College is and how it differs from an Honors Program.
  • Benefits of being in an Honors College.
  • Differences in application processes for Honors Colleges.

Key Takeaways:

  • Honors Colleges are intentional about building community, not just academically but also socially.
  • Many Honors Colleges intend to simulate small, top-tier liberal arts private college curricula at a lower price.
  • Honors Colleges are often a great fit for students interested in a challenge, in an interdisciplinary course of study, and have many different passions.
  • There are additional requirements for students in an Honors College. There is no single, correct way to do college, and these additional requirements may not be for your student even if they academically qualify.

“There is no one way to do college. If you choose an Honors College, great! If you choose to do Robotics League and marching band, but not the Honors College, if you decide that you're going to graduate in three years, fantastic! Everything is perfectly fine on the table; you can consider whatever is best for you.” – Sylvia Borgo

About Sylvia Borgo: Sylvia is an independent educational consultant based in California who works with students and families who want to simplify the college prep and admissions journey by bringing structure to the process. Her student-centered approach guides students through research and conversations to help them make informed choices for their best-fit college.

Episode References:

  • Complimentary College List Challenge: www.FlourishCoachingCo.com/challenge
  • Episode 052: Demonstrated Interest: How It Can Help Guide Your College Search

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret). https://flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Sylvia:

Website: www.djeducationalconsulting.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dj_educationalconsulting

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/djeducationalconsulting

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa discusses:

  • How your student can demonstrate to colleges the reasons behind their choice of college major.
  • Actions your student can take in high school to have confidence in their future major decision and share their story with colleges.
  • Options outside your high school to take the right classes.
  • Thinking more broadly about how your teen can gain valuable extracurricular experiences.

Key Takeaways:

  • Students spend most of their time in the classroom - they should take the right classes that align with their future major of interest and fit their academic level.
  • Don’t let the options at your student’s high school limit your student’s narrative.
  • There are ways for your student to create their own extracurricular activities if options at their school are limited.
  • Many high schools offer internships in your community - your teen can also talk to local businesses regarding potential internship opportunities outside of their high school.

“No matter when you're listening to this, it is not too late to dig in and start doing the work now. Once you've done the work, it's time to demonstrate it when you get to senior year, and you're ready to apply to college.” – Lisa Marker Robbins

Episode References:

College and Career Clarity Episodes:

  • #57 - College Admission by Major with Andy Borst
  • #69 - The Ins and Outs of AP Courses with Megan Rose
  • #93 - The Homeschoolers Guide to Standardized Testing: AP, PSAT, ACT, SAT, and CLT with Leia LeMaster Horton
  • #5 - Advice for Students Considering Healthcare Careers with Luisa Rabe
  • #28 - What extracurriculars should your teen pursue? with Lisa Marker Robbins
  • #84 - How to Write the “Why this Major” College Essay with Lisa Marker Robbins
  • BYU Online High School - https://hs.byu.edu/

Drews Mitchell - https://www.linkedin.com/in/drews-mitchell-72b86551/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
https://flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Andrea discuss:

  • Struggles parents have in the transition between being a high school parent and a college parent.
  • Start the transition by finding out where your college-bound student has room to grow.
  • The areas of college readiness beyond academics.
  • Supporting students as they transition and build resilience.

Key Takeaways:

  • Start parenting your college-bound student as a college student, even while they’re still in high school.
  • Parents and teenage students will often have different worries - it is essential to compare those concerns and understand what work can be done while your student is still in high school.
  • Your student should assess themselves in their study skills, reading skills, and other academic skills. Understanding where they are can help prepare them for more complex skills in college.
  • Ask your student to come to you with not only their problem but also a possible solution (even if it is just a draft). You can brainstorm it together, but problem-solving is an essential adult skill.

“Families need to take a step back, and students need to take a step up. This is a time for students to become their own fixers.” – Dr. Andrea Brenner

About Andrea Brenner: Dr. Andrea Malkin Brenner is the President of AMBrenner, LLC, and Founder of the Talking College™ card brand. She’s a speaker and college transition educator who brings 25 years as a “college insider” to her presentations for high school and college audiences.

Andrea is co-author of How to College: What to Know Before You Go (and When You’re There) (Macmillan, St. Martin’s Press), a student-facing book that guides high school graduates through their transition to college. She is the creator of the Talking College™ card decks, which provide insider tips and discussion prompts for college-bound students and their parents/guardians.

Dr. Brenner was a sociology professor at American University for 20 years, teaching classes to undergraduate students. Andrea also served as the Creator and first Director of the university’s first-year transition course, as Director of Undergraduate Studies for the Department of Sociology, and as the Faculty Director of the University College Program.

Episode References:

020 Teaching Your Teen “How to College”: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/20-teaching-your-teen-how-to-college/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
https://flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Andrea:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/andreambrenner
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andreamalkinbrenner/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ambrennerllc/
Website: https://ambrenner.com/
Talking College™ Cards: https://www.ambrenner.com/shop

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Wendy discuss:

  • Accommodation strategies for your student - both no-brainers and more unique options.
  • Why documentation of accommodations (official and unofficial) is critical.
  • How the new VP of Accommodations for ACT made it easier to get accommodations.
  • What the accommodation application process looks like.

Key Takeaways:

  • In notes from teachers, ask them to leave off the flattery and stick purely to the facts of what accommodations were given.
  • If your school counselor is referencing their ten-plus years of experience, that’s great, but gently remind them the process changed for the positive in 2020.
  • For the ACT, registering your student for the exam is going to kick off the accommodation application process.
  • Lack of documentation is the biggest reason for denial of accommodation. There should also be an underlying story connecting those documents.

“Start getting letters from the teachers or making sure that you're saving the notes from your teacher meetings because all of that documentation is showing a history of struggle, even if it's not officially notated on a 504, IEP, or learning plan.” – Wendy Raynor

About Wendy Raynor: Wendy has been tutoring college admissions exams for over 13 years. Her tutoring journey began unexpectedly but changed her life forever. She has helped hundreds (if not thousands) of neurodiverse students become successful on these exams. In 2016, she began WRH College Prep which focuses on preparing neurodiverse students for the ACT. In 2019, she became a founding member of the National Test Prep Association and quickly became recognized as the industry leader in standardized test accommodations. Wendy lives outside of Atlanta with her dog, She-Ra, and cat, Cringer.

Episode References:

  • ACT Test Dates: https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/registration.html
  • Accommodations Simplified: A Guide to Understanding SAT® and ACT® Accommodations:
    https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CLNJBT29?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_XVX2PYNJGNG4N5G5VZBB

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

https://flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Wendy:

Website: https://wrhcollegeprep.com/

Website: https://accommodations-simplified.com/

Upcoming Book: Accommodations, Simplified!

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Keely discuss:

  • How coaching can help improve your life, your parenting skills, and your family.
  • Systems and processes for navigating raising teens.
  • Suggestions for committing to intentional family meetings with teenagers.
  • Intentionality in small conversations and finding time to empower your teenagers.

Key Takeaways:

  • Coaches can give you a third-party perspective on what you are doing right and where you might need to make some changes to improve.
  • Carve out time toward the end of the week when you can have a family meeting or otherwise connect with your teenagers when they aren’t tired and bogged down by school and other obligations.
  • Make family meetings fun, and you’ll get things done!
  • Coaches can teach you and your teenagers to find agency and autonomy.

“With teenagers, that consistency piece of just keep showing up even when there is resistance (because that's one of the hardest things to learn in parenting a teenager, and people want to give up because it gets hard). And if you stick with it, like everything else, they come to look forward to it as their quality time.” – Keely Ng

About Keely Ng: Keely Ng has been in marketing and sales for over 20 years. In 2019, Keely founded Idea Tree Marketing, a marketing agency that helps businesses grow and scale by defining a clear brand message and implementing proven marketing and sales strategies to win more business.

Keely became a Certified Storybrand Guide in 2018 and utilizes the framework to drive growth for her clients.

Prior to the inception of Idea Tree, Keely was an independent marketing consultant for 10 years serving financial services, consulting, real estate, and eCommerce clients. In her corporate career, Keely worked in marketing and sales for such renowned brands as Vivendi Universal, Groupe Danone, and Million Dollar Baby.

Keely graduated from Union College in Schenectady NY with a BA in Economics. She is the proud mother of 2 children and is an avid runner, meditator, and cook. I give you, Keely Ng!

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret). https://flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Keely:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ideatreemarketing

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IdeaTreeMarketing19/

Website: https://www.ideatreemarketing.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keely-carr-ng-8300172/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Leia discuss:

  • Ways your homeschooler can communicate their test scores with potential colleges and universities.
  • Why dual enrollment courses may be the right option for your student.
  • The importance of taking the PSAT, SAT, and/or ACT, and when your student should start preparing for those exams.
  • What your student should know about the CLT test.

Key Takeaways:

  • Your student does not need to take the AP course to take the AP exam - as long as they know the material and get a 4 or 5 on the exam, your student can showcase that on their transcript.
  • Your student should avoid having over 30 credit hours going into college as they will no longer be seen as a freshman. Most of the highest financial aid and many scholarships are only available to first-year freshman students.
  • Even if the school your student is considering is test-optional, taking standardized tests often opens doors for scholarships for which they may not otherwise be eligible.
  • No matter the type of college your student is attending, you will want to consider testing.

“Keep in mind the question really isn't when to start test prep. The question is when should your student reach their highest score ever on both of those exams PSAT and SAT/ACT - and that is October of their junior year.” **– Leia LeMaster Horton

About Leia LeMaster Horton:** Leia LeMaster Horton, M.Ed. founded Horton Test Prep and helps students earn full tuition scholarships by raising their test scores. Students become prepared and confident test takers ready to conquer the ACT, CLT, and SAT exams. Leia classically homeschooled for 18 years, and her three children earned full tuition and merit-based scholarships valued at over $316,000. Since then, she’s helped countless others do the same. Leia’s passion is to help students understand that they can LEARN ANYTHING.

Episode References:
Classic Learning Test https://www.cltexam.com/
Episode #018 How to Get Freshman Year Free https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/18-how-to-get-freshman-year-free/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
https://flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Leia:
Website: www.hortontestprep.com
Email: info@hortontestprep.com
To schedule a free “Test Prep Journey That Earns Scholarships” consultation call, use this link: https://calendly.com/hortontestprep/30min?month=2023-02
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leialemasterhorton/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hortontestprep
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leia-lemaster-horton-m-ed-the-scholarship-expert-25917138/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Stephanie discuss:

  • Reasons your student might consider community college instead of or before transitioning to a 4-year university.
  • Advantages of a community college and reasons your student should invest time in a visit to the campus.
  • Differences between community colleges, regional campuses, and technical colleges.
  • The correct verbiage you need to ask the right questions of the colleges and universities your student is looking into.

Key Takeaways:

  • Community colleges are not lesser colleges. They are, however, tailored to the community that the school is in.
  • Community colleges are 2-year colleges, and the credits earned transfer to 4-year colleges. Your student will want research to ensure the community college will support their desired career path, as it may not be the case for all future majors.
  • Career and technical degrees are not lesser degrees. Your student would be learning their livelihood in 2 years and can make a great living in those jobs.
  • There are many organizations your student can engage with at community colleges. Regardless of the size of the school, there are engagement and scholarship opportunities that are often overlooked.

“You are welcome on the community college campus. There are people there waiting to answer your questions. Don’t be shy, don’t be scared - step on campus, find an office, and they will direct you to the right place to get your questions answered. It might change your life.” – Stephanie DuguidAbout Stephanie Duguid: As the founder of Do Good Leadership, Dr. Stephanie Duguid is a motivational speaker, educational consultant, leadership & success coach, radio show host, and author who strives to help individuals become intentional in developing goals, purposeful in reaching their full potential and helps to solve challenges. Her primary focus is helping Women in Education develop leadership skills and confidence in 90 days to enter their ideal leadership role (current or future).

Episode References:
Episodes About How to Prepare Teens to Thrive in College:

020 Teaching Your Teen “How to College”: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/20-teaching-your-teen-how-to-college/

088 Executive Function Skills for College Success with Lauran Kerr-Heraly: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/088-executive-function-skills-for-college-success-with-lauran-kerr-heraly/

068 How to Get the Most Out Of College with Elliot Felix: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/068-how-to-get-the-most-out-of-college-with-elliot-felix/

Get Lisa's complimentary on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
https://flourishcoachingco.com/video

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Lisa discuss:

  • Why your student shouldn’t write off a ROTC program in college, even if they did in high school.
  • How an ROTC program at a public university is different from the military academies.
  • The competitive nature of the ROTC scholarship requirements and how they vary between the branches.
  • Avoiding procrastination - how your student can prepare and understand the requirements in advance.

Key Takeaways:

  • Your student does not need to attend a specific military academy to participate and qualify for an ROTC program.
  • Not every college has an ROTC unit. If your student is interested in participating, they will want to make that a factor in their college list.
  • Each branch of the military has its own ROTC program - their applications and units are distinct. Each branch also has a scholarship program.
  • It is more common for colleges to have one of the ROTC programs, but not all three. If your student is considering multiple branches, there are often crosstown programs, so they will want to do their research in advance.

“Don’t be afraid of the ROTC unit staff. They are not only there to train the college cadets and midshipmen that are in the unit, but also to talk to interested students. They want to communicate what their program is like, they want to answer questions because they know the message isn't out there.” **– Lisa Rielage

About Lisa Rielage: Lisa Rielage is an Independent Educational Consultant and the founder of Admissions Decrypted. She graduated from the Naval Academy, served as a Naval Academy admissions liaison, and is also a military spouse. Because she has decades of experience with the military, she is a go-to resource for students interested in military college programs.
Episode References:**

  • Army ROTC School Search
  • Air Force ROTC College Locator
  • Navy ROTC Schools list
  • Admissions Decrypted FB
  • #070 Military Service Academies with Lisa Rielage
  • Lisa Rielage on LinkedIn

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
https://courses.flourishcoachingco.com/howtoguideyourteen-free-training

Connect with Lisa:
Website: https://admissionsdecrypted.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisarielage/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AdmissionsDec

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Adam discuss:

  • The upcoming rollout for the national test date Online ACT and what it means for students.
  • What your student can expect to be different between the online and paper ACT.
  • Tools, both digital and physical, to use while prepping for and taking the Online ACT.
  • Pros and cons of the Online ACT versus paper testing.

Key Takeaways:

  • There are many unpredictable pieces with the online ACT which doesn’t serve students well.
  • The Online ACT will have limited availability as it is rolled out starting in December 2023 and into 2024.
  • Many testing strategies that work for the paper ACT do not translate to the Online ACT.
  • If your student is taking the Online ACT at a different school, they do not necessarily know what size screen, if there is a mouse or a trackpad, or what other technologies will be available.

“We're not talking about what you're capable of, we're talking about what is best suited for the learners and what is best for a testing environment. I think having a student that has practice with ACT paper, then throwing them in the digital would be a fair assessment of the tool overall.” – Adam Snoza

About Adam Snoza: Adam Snoza graduated from Creighton University and was a high school English teacher for nine years in both public and private schools. He has spent 15 years in ACT test prep. He is the owner of Aim High Test Prep in Omaha, NE and is also the lead instructor and curriculum developer, authoring his own 350-page instructional Manual.

Adam is a trainer for ACT's Instructional Mastery program (AIM) in all five certification areas, co-authored the Official ACT Mathematics Guide 2nd ed. and the ACT Official Guide, and has been a presenter for the National Test Prep Association (NTPA) and will present at the upcoming Upper Midwest ACT State Conference.

Episode References:

  • Computer Based ACT Practice Tests https://cloud.e.act.org/cbt-for-international
  • Episode #60 Say Goodbye to the Paper SAT Test https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/060-say-goodbye-to-the-paper-sat-test/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

https://courses.flourishcoachingco.com/howtoguideyourteen-free-training

Connect with Adam:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AimHighTestPrep

Website: https://www.aimhightestprep.com/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Beatrice discuss:

  • How the CSS Profile differs from the FAFSA for getting college financial aid.
  • Which colleges use the CSS Profile.
  • Why it’s important to establish a college budget as early as your student’s sophomore year.
  • Reasons why you should complete the CSS Profile and apply for other financial aid opportunities regardless of your family income.
  • What materials to gather before sitting down to complete the CSS Profile.

Key Takeaways:

  • While not historically the case, a greater number of public colleges and universities are choosing to use the CSS profile to gather more information about your student and family to award scholarships, grants, and loans.
  • There can be strategies around income and assets to make your student’s CSS profile look more preferred.
  • The special circumstances box is key when filling out the CSS profile if your financial situation has changed in the last two years.
  • To not miss out on financial aid, assume the financial aid is due when the application is due. This will ensure your student does not miss the deadlines for financial assistance.

“It is a time to have a real consciousness about these $1,000 here and $1,000 there - it's a huge amount of money.” – Beatrice Schultz **About Beatrice Schultz: Beatrice Schultz, CFP® is the owner of Westface College Planning.

For over 25 years, Beatrice Schultz, CFP® and Westface College Planning have been working with families to design college financial plans that help minimize out-of-pocket expenses, maximize aid eligibility, and navigate the paying for the college process.

Beatrice has a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from Queen’s University in Canada and a Masters in Management from Boston University – Vrije Universiteit Brussels, Belgium.

Beatrice is also the owner of Westface Financial Advisory and Westface Financial & Insurance Services. Westface College Planning, Westface Financial Advisory and Westface Financial and Insurance Services are trade names of Paceline, LLC, a registered investment advisory firm.**

Episode References:
List of CSS Profile Schools: https://profile.collegeboard.org/profile/ppi/participatingInstitutions.aspx
Episode #046 How to Recession Proof Your College-Bound Journey: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/046-how-to-recession-proof-your-college-bound-journey/
Episode #085 Upcoming Changes to Federal Financial Aid with Beth Walker: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/085-upcoming-changes-to-federal-financial-aid-with-beth-walker/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
https://courses.flourishcoachingco.com/howtoguideyourteen-free-training

Connect with Beatrice:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beatricekschultz/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WestfaceCollegePlanning/
Website: https://westfacecollegeplanning.com/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Lauran discuss:

  • The 4 (surprising) categories of executive function skills every student needs for success.
  • Why executive functioning skills are more important than the standard high school education leads you to believe.
  • Tips for how parents and families can set their teen up to learn these skills for a successful transition to college.
  • Tips for creating open avenues of communication with your students to set them up for happiness.

Key Takeaways:

  • Students spend a lot of time studying inefficiently. Managing time effectively is critically important.
  • The four S’s of executive function skills: scholastic, study, social, and sensibility.
  • As a parent, once your student is in college, your student’s information cannot be given to you without signing a FERPA release, and even then it is not your place to be checking in with your student’s professors. That is the student’s responsibility.
  • The demands on a high school student do not match up with their current executive function skills…and it isn’t their fault.
  • Notice what your student is doing well, and help them learn the skills that they may be struggling with.

“The right skills are one of the most important things you can do for them. Because after they get into college, they are kind of on their own, but they still need you. Open warm communication is really important. And then scaffolding as much as possible so that you can set them up to not only be successful, but happy because that's what we want.” – Lauran Kerr-Heraly

About Lauran Kerr-Heraly: Lauran Kerr-Heraly is an award-winning educator and author who has dedicated her career to transforming lives through education. She is a Professor of History and Innovation Fellow at Houston Community College. She earned her Ph.D. in History and Women’s Studies at the University of Houston and her research focuses on Black women medical doctors. She is the winner of the Texas State Historical Association’s Randolph B. “Mike” Campbell Award, Houston Community College’s Teaching Excellence Award, and NISOD Teaching Excellence Award. Lauran developed her program Altering Course to empower families to achieve success in college

Episode References:
Executive Function Infographic: https://www.alteringcourse.com/infographic
Goal Setting for Students: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/blog/goal-setting-for-students/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
https://courses.flourishcoachingco.com/howtoguideyourteen-free-training

Connect with Lauran:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alteringcourse/
Website: https://www.alteringcourse.com/

Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Julie discuss:

  • Explaining the menu of college application early options for your student.
  • What it means for an early decision acceptance to be binding.
  • How applying to public versus private institutions changes Early Action and Early Decision applications.
  • Strategizing on your student’s applications.

Key Takeaways:

  • Early Decision 1 (ED1) applications are typically due in early November - these are binding. If admitted, your teen must go and withdrawal other applications from other colleges. Early Decision 2 (ED2) applications are typically due in early January - these are also binding.
  • Single Choice Early Action (SCEA) is non-binding, but super restrictive in where else the student can apply. These schools do not allow students to apply ED anywhere or early action to any other private universities (but they still can apply EA to public universities).
  • REA (Restricted Early Action) is similar to SCEA - it’s non-binding but restrictive. High school students cannot apply anywhere else ED, but they can apply early action to other institutions.
  • Just because a school offers early decision, does not mean it is the right decision for every student. Do your research.

“The type of person that should consider ED1 is somebody that feels really strongly about that school. ‘This is where I want to go, I'm showing you where I want to go.’ That gives them an edge, but then also, ‘I have really prepared myself to send you a competitive application.’” **– Julie Kelsheimer

About Julie Kelsheimer:** Julie is a College Admissions Advisor through Great Minds Advising, which is the remotely-based college advising wing of the tutoring company Westchester Prep, located just outside of New York City. Julie educated middle schoolers and high schoolers in the private realm for over ten years, and she spent 7 years as a university professor. Julie has enjoyed working with high schoolers (and the occasional 7th or 8th grader!) on assessing and diligently working towards their college goals. Because Julie has worked with students at the high school level and at the university level, she offers a unique perspective surrounding what it takes to be a competitive college applicant, as well as a thriving college student.

Episode References:
How to Find the “Common Data Set”: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/blog/demonstrated-interest-how-to-find-it-on-the-common-data-set/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
https://courses.flourishcoachingco.com/howtoguideyourteen-free-training

Connect with Julie:
Instagram: https://instagram.com/greatmindsadvising
Facebook: https

Connect with Lisa:

Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-marker-robbins/

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Dave discuss:

  • The lucrative nature of college athletics.
  • How coaches and a ready-made set of peers can support their student-athletes.
  • Creating a holistic college fit for your student-athlete.
  • Who to talk to about your student’s major and sport to understand time conflicts.

Key Takeaways:

  • Only 5% of high school athletes go on to continue in college sports. But that number is deceptive because many do not want to continue and there is more opportunity than it may seem for your student who does want to continue in athletics.
  • Because of associations built during athletics, those students tend to be more invested alum than other students.
  • There are elite programs in every division of college athletics, and non-elite programs within every division. Just because a school is a D1 does not make it a more elite program.
  • Ask questions at the college level in advance, both of the coaches and the program directors of your student’s major.

“There's one guy whose job is 100% to determine whether you can play Ohio State, you should email him. If he ignores you, that's your answer.” – Dave Morris

About Dave Morris: Dave Morris, College Athletic Advisor's founder, and CEO, has spent more than two decades helping prospective soccer student-athletes find their 360° fit in college: academically, athletically, socially, and financially. His expert guidance supports students as they navigate the diverse, rapidly evolving world of college sports.

This includes facilitating connections with college coaches, developing application materials including essays, negotiating athletic scholarships or financial aid offers, and making informed decisions on committing to a college where the student can truly excel. As a coach, educator, and college administrator with experience at every NCAA level, high school, and in elite sports clubs, Dave’s insight and understanding of the recruiting landscape are truly unique. He is a member of the IECA, NACAC, PNACAC and a graduate of the University of Michigan in Asian Studies, with a master’s degree in Sports Management from Frostburg State University (MD). Today, Dave lives with his wife, Sharon, and daughter, Sydney, in Tumwater, Washington.

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
https://courses.flourishcoachingco.com/howtoguideyourteen-free-training

Connect with Dave:

Website: https://collegeathleticadvisor.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CAACoachDave

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/college_athletic_advisor/

YouTube:

Connect with Lisa:

Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-marker-robbins/

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Beth discuss:

  • The changes to NEED based financial aid for students attending college in 2024 or later.
  • Why the changes are being made to the FAFSA application.
  • The goal of making higher education more accessible to those who need financial help.
  • Different financial aid forms: FAFSA versus the CSS Profile.
  • Taking back control as consumers of college education.

Key Takeaways:

  • Every family is unique and has different financial needs. Understanding the application processes and changes is key to knowing what is best for your family.
  • The Student Aid Index is how the college is going to look at your student’s household for aid eligibility, not specifically what the student is expected to pay.
  • Families with 2 or more students in college at the same time will see their costs increase based on the FAFSA alone.
  • This is a student-centered process. There needs to be an integration between the student, their desired path, and affordability.

“There's a strong belief that more schools are going to use the CSS Profile this year because that does offer the discount for multiple kids.” – Beth Walker
About Beth Walker: Beth is the author of Never Pay Retail for College. She is a mom on a mission, protecting parents during their most emotionally and financially vulnerable phase of life. Beth is all about helping other moms and dads create better futures - for the students heading off to college and the parents they leave behind.

Beth’s new book, Buy College Better (out in August 2023), will detail her formula for successfully “buying” college while saving tens of thousands of dollars on the overall cost of getting kids on their path to a better future.

Beth’s college FICO® score philosophy has helped parents maintain their current lifestyle and stay on track for retirement while sending their kids to schools that provide that “right fit” education.

Beth is the founder of the Center for College Solutions, Senior Financial Specialist for Strategies for College, and a Wealth Advisor for Carson Wealth.

Episode References:

009 How Smart Parents Find the Right School for the Right Price with Beth Walker

046 How to Recession Proof Your College Bound Journey with Beth Walker

032 Your College List: Financial Fit with Dr. Abigail Sussman

List of CSS Profile Schools
Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
https://courses.flourishcoachingco.com/howtoguideyourteen-free-training

Connect with Beth:
Website: https://www.centerforcollegesolutions.com/
Email: beth@centerforcollegesolutions.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/centerforcollegesolutions.com/about/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/collegefundingcoaches/

Connect with Lisa:

Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-marker-robbins/

View Details

In this episode, Lisa discusses:

  • What supplemental college essays are and what is required of your teen
  • Most common topics for supplemental college essays.
  • How your student’s past activities and desired future link to their chosen major and how to communicate this to the colleges.
  • Strategies for writing multiple versions of the “why this major” essay.

Key Takeaways:

  • Most supplemental essays are shorter than the 650-word personal statement. The average supplemental essay is a max of 250 words, but it can vary from 25 words to 500 words.
  • Colleges want to know that your student is making an intentional choice and know that your student is a fit for them.
  • Your student should include things from their past such as personal experiences, classes, hobbies, community service, extracurricular activities, informational interviews about careers, internships, paid work, and internships that are relevant to their choice of major.
  • Colleges also want to understand that your student knows the connection between their major and their desired future career.

“When you’re writing an essay, remember, it is quality over quantity, regardless of length.” – Lisa Marker Robbins

Episode References:

  • Video Resource, How to Find College Supplemental Essays for Applications: www.flourishcoachingco.com/college-essays
  • Episode #078, 5 Essential Questions to Ask Colleges Before Submitting Applications: www.flourishcoachingco.com/078
  • Free On Demand Video, How to guide your teen to choose the right major, college, & career: www.flourishcoachingco.com/video

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

https://courses.flourishcoachingco.com/howtoguideyourteen-free-training

Connect with Lisa:

Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-marker-robbins/

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Barak discuss:

  • Life skills, not just higher scores, gained from the SAT/ACT test prep.
  • How tutoring prepares students for their life’s adventure.
  • Opening doors and doing good through test prep.
  • The very real skills gained during the journey of test prep.

Key Takeaways:

  • Be more positive with your student, it will help to remove the frustration and help them cultivate a growth mindset.
  • Everyone should be a teacher. If you are a parent, you are a teacher. If you are an adult out in the world, you are a teacher.
  • It is not just about the score - it is also about the life skills your student is developing.
  • Escapism is the killer of adventure in life. Lean into each challenge and approach it with a constructive mentality and you will create an amazing foundation for your life’s journey.

“Everybody's story is unique. Everybody's life is an adventure. Everything is serendipity. And that's what we're here to do is to prepare people for the adventure of life.” – Barak Moore

About Barak Moore: Barak Moore is a professional SAT/ACT tutor who has created a unique method for achieving some of the most efficient score improvements in the industry. Barak is a graduate of Princeton University and is the former Director of the Princeton Review of NJ. He has been a consultant to leading educational organizations such as McGraw-Hill, the UN, IBM, and the World Bank. Thousands of his students have gained acceptance to America's top colleges, including every Ivy League university.

Episode References:

  • 080 Steps to Crush Teen Stress and Bring Relief with Dr. Ben Bernstein

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

https://courses.flourishcoachingco.com/howtoguideyourteen-free-training

Connect with Barak:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barakmooretutor/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/baraktutor

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barakmoore/

Email: barakmoore@gmail.com

Connect with Lisa:

Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-marker-robbins/

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Wendy discuss:

  • What are the types of unexpected circumstances they may derail college planning?
  • When facing unexpected family challenges during the college-bound process, what does (and doesn’t) change.
  • Identifying support for your student when the unexpected strikes your family.
  • Building a well-balanced college list that fits your student’s circumstances (both current and possible).
  • Being proactive, preparing documents, and tracking appropriate financials.

Key Takeaways:

  • Many people in your student’s sphere of influence can assist your student, often free of charge, to make their college goals happen when circumstances change.
  • Share what you are going through - people will step up, on your behalf, to point you and your student in the right direction.
  • No matter what happens, you want your student to have options.
  • Look at staying within the budget. As parents, don’t co-sign loans - you need to be able to take care of your own financials and retirement.

“The more proactive you are, it serves you better. There’s a lot of things colleges can do that we don’t necessarily know about until we have reached out.” – Wendy Briley
About Wendy Briley: Wendy is an Independent Educational Consultant who has been in private practice for 7 years. In 2019 she founded the nonprofit organization College Consultants Care which provides free college application assistance to students affected by cancer.

Episode References:

  • 036 How to know if a college is giving their best price https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/036-how-to-know-if-a-college-is-giving-their-best-price/

  • 046 How to Recession Proof Your College Bound Journey

  • https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/046-how-to-recession-proof-your-college-bound-journey/

  • 032 Your College List: Financial Fit https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/032-your-college-list-financial-fit/

  • 009 How Smart Parents Find the Right School for the Right Price https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/9-how-smart-parents-find-the-right-school-for-the-right-price/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
https://courses.flourishcoachingco.com/howtoguideyourteen-free-training

Connect with Wendy:
Website: https://collegeconsultantscare.org/

Connect with Lisa:

Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-marker-robbins/

View Details

In this episode Lisa and Susie discuss:

  • When to really start diving deep into your student’s college search.
  • Focusing on the high school experience before pushing the college experience.
  • The importance of spending time on the college website.
  • Utilizing the various social media platforms to learn more about colleges.

Key Takeaways:

  • To know which college your student wants to attend, they first need to know why they want to attend.
  • Utilizing Google Sheets to organize your student’s college lists with all their information is completely free and keeps everything in one place.
  • Some schools are more welcoming to those who are undecided about their major going into college. If your student is unsure of what they want to major in, that should be a factor they are considering.
  • Plot your student’s college fair strategy - they can be overwhelming if you go in unarmed.

“The statistics are pretty grim in that most kids don't spend much time on the college website. And it's really invaluable information because this is where college puts out everything they believe in and everything they offer.” – Susie Watts
About Susie Watts: I am a college consultant and author with 30 years of experience. I have written many articles and blogs on college admission and will be publishing my new book, "Beyond the GPA: How to Give Your Student an Edge with College Admission" on Amazon on August 1st. I assist students with building a college list, creating compelling essays and applications, understanding the complexities of paying for college, and how to navigate the college admission process.

Episode References:
BigFuture.org
CollegeNavigator.gov
A step-by-step guide to building a Student LinkedIn Profile: https://pages.flourishcoachingco.com/linkedin-guide/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
https://courses.flourishcoachingco.com/howtoguideyourteen-free-training

Connect with Susie:
Website: https://collegedirection.org/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/yourcollegepro
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susiewatts/

Connect with Lisa:

Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-marker-robbins/

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Ben discuss:

  • The biggest challenge for teens and the best predictor of student success.
  • Understanding the true definition of your teen’s stress.
  • How your teen (and you!) can learn to be calm, confident, and focused in the face of stress.
  • Helping your student when they say they are not stressed, but you think they are.
  • How to foster agency in your student.

Key Takeaways:

  • Self-definition is one of the most difficult things for teenagers (and everyone). The current education systems do not teach individuality and society does not give people the experience early enough to be able to define who they are.
  • Ideal stress is a bell curve. Too much or too little and performance decreases, but some stress is required for your student to perform at their best.
  • Life is going to happen and it will be filled with challenges. Stress comes with how people react to those situations.
  • Parents can help their teens get through stressful situations by reminding them of other situations where they have overcome something challenging.

“When you approach life’s challenges, whether it’s the ACT, a college interview, or somebody getting sick, you can approach it in a calm and confident and focused way. You're not struggling with it, you're not wishing it were different, you are just dealing with it as it is.” – Dr. Ben Bernstein

About Dr. Ben Bernstein: Ben Bernstein is a senior psychologist and educator specializing in top performance. Known as the “Stress Doctor,” he is the author of four books on how stress affects performance: Test Success (2009), A Teen’s Guide to Success (2014); Stressed Out! for Parents (2015); and Crush Your Test Anxiety (2018). His forthcoming book, The Threefold Path to Optimal Living, will be released in 2024. His monthly blog posts on the Psychology Today website regularly receive thousands of hits.

‘Dr. B’ is a performance coach for Academy Award, Tony Award, and Pulitzer Prize winners. His client list includes dentists and dental specialists, CEOs, business owners, athletes, attorneys, physicians, parents, opera singers, and actors. He lectures worldwide, live and online, to audiences of business executives, professors, parents, and healthcare professionals.

Episode References:
Episode #040 Building Motivation & Stress Tolerance for Happy Teens with Ned Johnson

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
https://courses.flourishcoachingco.com/howtoguideyourteen-free-training

Connect with Ben:
Website: https://www.drbyourbest.com/
Books: https://www.drbyourbest.com/store/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drbyourbest/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/drbyourbest
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrBYourBest/
Email: drb@drbyourbest.com

Connect with Lisa:

Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-marker-robbins/

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Jennifer discuss:

  • Pros and cons of universities versus colleges (and how each might work better for your student).
  • Review your student’s college list, recognizing what is different, and understanding what options your student will have at each school.
  • Using experiences and extracurricular activities to understand what careers and majors fit.
  • College and major flexibility for engineering different degrees.

Key Takeaways:

  • Use the college list process to learn and educate yourself about your student and their desires, not just about the schools.
  • The essay questions asked by admissions give an insight into what is important to the college or university.
  • Starting early can only help, but it is not a cure-all. As your student moves through maturity they will grow and change.
  • Your student needs to do their homework to understand the requirements of the college major and make sure they fit in with the needs of your student.

“It's great when students are doing things that interest them, not because it's impressive to an admissions officer, but because it's something that's genuine and born from within and they care about. That's when we all shine the most.” – Jennifer Stephan

About Jennifer Stephan: Dr. Jennifer Stephan, Ph.D., has spent her entire career helping young adults achieve their academic and personal goals through her roles as a professor, academic dean, alumni interviewer, independent educational consultant, and parent.

Jennifer holds a BS degree in electrical engineering from Johns Hopkins University and an MS and a Ph.D. in electrical and computer engineering from Carnegie Mellon University.

After completing her doctorate, Jennifer spent over two decades at Wellesley College; fourteen years as a professor of computer science, followed by eight years as a class dean. In 2016, Jennifer moved to Tufts University, where she currently serves as the Dean of Academic Advising and Undergraduate Studies for the School of Engineering.

In addition to her formal roles on college campuses, Jennifer is an independent educational consultant. At Lantern College Counseling, Jennifer specializes in mentoring young students preparing for careers in STEM program admissions, including those interested in computer science and engineering.

Episode References:
College Essays: flourishcoachingco.com/college-essays
Episode #058 Navigating the Competitive Landscape of Computer Science Admissions with Jennifer Stephan
Episode #057 College Admission by Major with Andy Borst

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).
https://courses.flourishcoachingco.com/howtoguideyourteen-free-training

Connect with Jennifer:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferstephan/

Connect with Lisa:

Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-marker-robbins/

View Details

In this episode, Lisa discusses the five questions:

  • Does your college or university admit directly to the major, college, or division?
  • Are there any majors that are restricted to first-year freshman applicants? If so, what are they?
  • What is the process for changing majors within a college or division? And, are there any saturated majors where capacity is fairly limited?
  • What is the process for changing majors between a college or division?
  • For what majors is it difficult to graduate in four years if you do not start in that major as a freshman?

Key Takeaways:

  • Just because a college or university allows a change to your major does not mean the path is open for all applicants. There may be a process or the choices for majors to change into may be limited.
  • The majors that the college is known for can be difficult to switch into at many schools.
  • The real, average cost of the fifth year of college is over $68,000. Encourage your family to set your student up to finish within those four years.

“You really need to be reading the fine print on these admission policies and understand the direction that your student is taking and the implications for that.” – Lisa Marker Robbins

Episode References:

  • College and Career Clarity Episode 57 - College Admission by Major with Andy Borst
  • College and Career Clarity Episode 41 - Nursing Program Admissions with Jon Rice
  • Upcoming College and Career Clarity Episode 79 - How to Build the Right College List for Engineering Majors with Jennifer Stephan
  • Free Video - https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/video

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

https://courses.flourishcoachingco.com/howtoguideyourteen-free-training

Connect with Lisa:

Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-marker-robbins/

Connect with Lisa:

Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-marker-robbins/

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Scotti discuss:

  • Why many students’ struggles appear in high school and after, rather than in younger grades.
  • Where families can start when their student is struggling.
  • Opportunities outside of high school for students to find success quickly and boost confidence.
  • Collaborative problem-solving with students and educators for student success.

Key Takeaways:

  • Every student finds success on their own timeline.
  • As a parent, your emotions do not matter in your child’s struggle. Your child is smart and has their own strengths and has their own path. It may look different from your path or what you want for them.
  • Lead with and lean into your student’s strengths when talking about struggles.
  • Learning does not equal classroom learning. That is only one path of learning and there is more than one path to thriving and career success.

“I think that a different kind of learning can be very, very valuable, especially for kids who struggle in school, because they often feel very unsuccessful, and not confident in their ability to learn and grow. To give them an opportunity that better fits their learning style or their interests is a place where they can shine and grow in their own way.” – Scotti Weintraub
About Scotti Weintraub: Scotti Weintraub has dedicated more than 17 years to supporting other parents. She’s an accomplished community organizer and presenter who now specializes in helping other parents find the knowledge and resources they need to help their kids succeed when they’re struggling at school. When her own kids struggled and she couldn’t find the roadmap she wanted, Scotti channeled her inner researcher and got to work. With Reframe Parenting, she’s sharing her hard-won successes and strategies with parents to save both time and heartache. Reframe's bottom line? Every kid is amazing and deserves to succeed.

Episode References:
Episode #062 Gap Year: Is it a better freshman start? https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/062-gap-year-is-it-a-better-freshmen-start/
Episode #013 The Many Advantages of a Gap Year https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/13-the-many-advantages-of-a-gap-year/
Episode #047 The Neurodivergent College-Bound Journey https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/47-the-neurodivergent-college-bound-journey/
Episode #071 School Discipline and College Admissions with Hanna Stotland https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/071-school-discipline-and-college-admissions-with-hanna-stotland/

Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How to guide your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret) https://courses.flourishcoachingco.com/howtoguideyourteen-free-training

Connect with Scotti:
Website: https://www.reframeparenting.com/
Email: scotti@reframeparenting.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reframeparenting/

Connect with Lisa:

Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-marker-robbins/

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Jeremiah discuss:

  • The nuances of the student experience at Christian colleges and universities.
  • The evolution of Christian colleges.
  • Majors that are commonly found at Christian universities and combined programs to meet your career goals.
  • The student experience for students of all faiths when attending a Christian college.

Key Takeaways:

  • Not all Christian universities are part of the CCCU. There are other options for finding additional Christian colleges and universities around the country.
  • No two schools are alike, especially in Christian Universities. Do your research to find what works for your student and your family.
  • Do your homework - many Christian colleges have majors that can support your student’s career goals, even if they are more of a niche major or require utilizing a combined program with another university.
  • Christian colleges and universities fall along the whole spectrum of aspects, from size to student life to majors. If your student is interested in a Christian college, there are likely options out there that fit their goals.

“I encourage families to visit colleges, there's a wide range. Then ask the hard questions. That's what we're here for. That's what is going to be most beneficial as they're going through that process and finding ways for them to further flourish.” – Jeremiah Gonia

About Jeremiah Gonia: I have worked in Higher Education for almost 9 years and worked within various roles in college admissions ranging from campus visit coordinator to my current role as the Associate Director for Undergraduate Admissions at Asbury University. In addition to my role as an Enrollment Counselor, I work alongside various offices on campus including our Financial Aid office, Registrar, Provost Office, Student Life, and Athletics. I am a current member of NACCAP, NACAC, and KYACAC organizations.

Episode References:
Searchable Map of CCCU Colleges https://www.cccu.org/institution-map/
College Navigator: collegenavigator.gov
Christian College Fairs https://www.naccap.org/page/Fair_Locations
Niche: https://www.niche.com/

Take Lisa’s free quiz “Is your teen ready for coaching?” here- https://quiz.tryinteract.com/#/608984a7a898980017089b21/q/1

Connect with Jeremiah:
Website: https://asbury.edu/
Jeremiah’s Contact Page: https://www.asbury.edu/about/directory/jeremiah-gonia/

Connect with Lisa:
Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-marker-robbins/

Connect with Lisa:

Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-marker-robbins/

View Details

In this episode, Lisa and Cathy discuss:

  • Creating a responsible, not perfect, college list.
  • Reconciling what actions parents can do and what is the students’ responsiblity.
  • Defining success as a family for better communication.
  • Merit-based and need-based scholarships.

Key Takeaways:

  • College is different from when parents were in school than it is now. It is even wildly different just from pre-COVID to post-COVID college admissions.
  • Define success as a family so everyone is communicating in the same language before you begin building your student’s college list.
  • Have a budget in mind before your student starts looking at college campuses.
  • There is a mindset around the financial aspect of college education. Think of in-state tuition as your tuition discount.
  • When looking at colleges, establish the emotional parameters, but you can’t argue with the data on what the schools are looking for and their institutional priorities.

“It's like many relationships in business, you get the money conversation done, and then you know where to go from there. A lot of parents don't think of it that way because it is an emotional purchase. I've never met a parent that doesn't think their child deserves the absolute best, and so defining best is crucial to the relationship.” – Cathy Copeland Titus

About Cathy Copeland Titus: Cathy entered the higher education field as the founder and CEO of a multi-platform educational technology company designed to provide university enrollment managers with unique student candidate data. After years of supporting colleges on the yield side of the equation, she exited the company and enrolled in a certification program in admissions at the University of California Davis to begin helping students and families find their best college options.

Cathy joined Strategies For College in the spring of 2020 as an Admissions Advisor and continues to manage a small group of students each year. She also is VP, of Strategic Initiatives and spearheads the SFC Consortium, home of the List Hero software.

Episode References:
Episode #009 How Smart Parents Find the Right School for the Right Price https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/9-how-smart-parents-find-the-right-school-for-the-right-price/

Episode #046 How to Recession-Proof Your College-Bound Journey
https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/046-how-to-recession-proof-your-college-bound-journey/

Episode #061 COVID Impact on College Admissions
https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/061-covid-impact-on-college-admissions/

Take Lisa’s free quiz “Is your teen ready for coaching?” here- https://quiz.tryinteract.com/#/608984a7a898980017089b21/q/1

Connect with Cathy:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathycopelandtitus/
Website: https://strategiesforcollege.com/

Connect with Lisa:
Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-marker-robbins/

Connect with Lisa:

Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-marker-robbins/

View Details

In this episode Lisa and Kim discuss:

  • Secrets of admissions that might surprise students and their families.
  • The myths and confusion surrounding the admissions essay.
  • How to be genuine while writing the admissions essays.
  • Understanding the questions being asked, answering the prompt, and not thinking about what other people want.

Key Takeaways:

  • When your student is starting to build their network, first, they should try to be interested before they try to be interesting.
  • In 2023, admissions advisors do not spend time talking about ChatGPT and AI. They have bigger fish to fry, such as the affirmative action conversations happening in the Supreme Court this summer.
  • There are no specific traits that college admissions advisors are looking for in every student. They are looking to get to know your student better and more genuinely.
  • Regardless of the question, encourage your student to answer the prompt and stay true to who they are.

“With the college essay, there is so much garbage out there. And so many myths. And so many people don't understand that it's not that big of a thing. You just have to answer the question, show a little bit of insight, and help these people understand who you are. That is it.” – Kim Lifton

About Kim Lifton: Perceptive, resourceful, and curious, Wow President and Co-founder Kim Lifton can get a story out of anyone; she helped create the brainstorming process used in the Wow Method. Kim’s articles on the college essay appear regularly in print and on the web, and her work has been featured in a variety of newspapers, magazines, and online publications. Kim is a former newspaper reporter and corporate communications manager with a BA in Journalism from Michigan State University.

Episode References:
Get Your Copy of Kim’s Book here: https://wowwritingworkshop.com/free-student-book/
Listen to Episode 57 with Andy Borst here: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/057-college-admission-by-major/

Take Lisa’s free quiz “Is your teen ready for coaching?” here- https://quiz.tryinteract.com/#/608984a7a898980017089b21/q/1
Connect with Kim:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/WowWriting
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wowwriting/
Website: https://wowwritingworkshop.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimlifton/

Connect with Lisa:
Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-marker-robbins/

Connect with Lisa:

Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-marker-robbins/

View Details

In this episode Lisa and Megan discuss:

  • The importance of teaching your kids to think about thinking from a young age.
  • Recognizing the difference between what actually happens and the narrative our brain tells around the same event.
  • The difference harnessing the power of thought can make in parenting your teen.
  • The power of flipping statements into questions and interrogating the narrative.

Key Takeaways:

  • All behavior is driven by thinking. If you can teach your teenagers how to change their mindset and externalize their thinking, you will give them better tools for success.
  • As humans, people take action based on what they think. If a negative story is being told about facts, it can wear on relationships over time.
  • The first step to changing your mindset, both for yourself as a parent and for your teenager, is identifying the stories that are being told around the events that are happening.
  • If kids are going to make good decisions, they need to be resilient and brave and learn to take risks. They can increase their bravery by interrogating the stories that they are telling themselves.

“If we can teach our kids how to think about their thinking and objectify it as something outside of themselves, then they can make better decisions, and, ultimately, the stories that are running their life are conscious instead of unconscious.” – Megan Hyatt Miller

About Megan Hyatt Miller: Megan Hyatt Miller is the President and Chief Executive Officer at Full Focus and the co-host of the popular business podcast, Lead to Win. She is also Michael’s oldest daughter. As the architect of Full Focus’s standout culture, she is committed to helping her team win at work and succeed at life, while also delivering phenomenal results to their customers. Under her leadership, Full Focus was named as one of Inc. Magazine’s Best Workplaces for 2020, which ranks the top companies in America for their employee engagement. When she’s not taking the company to new heights, she’s fully present at home with her husband Joel, and five kids in Franklin, Tennessee.

Episode Resources:
Check out Megan’s Book Mind Your MindsetI here: https://fullfocusstore.com/collections/books/products/mind-your-mindset

Take Lisa’s free quiz “Is your teen ready for coaching?” here- https://quiz.tryinteract.com/#/608984a7a898980017089b21/q/1

Connect with Megan:
Website: https://fullfocus.co/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megan-hyatt-miller-51ab12211/
Podcast: https://fullfocus.co/podcasts/
Books: https://fullfocusstore.com/collections/books

Connect with Lisa:
Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-marker-robbins/

Connect with Lisa:

Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-marker-robbins/

View Details

In this episode Lisa and David discuss:

  • Statistics that will change the way you look at your student’s school breaks.
  • How to use school breaks for students’ success.
  • The profound impact reading has on a student’s academic success.
  • Helping students to increase their reading speed and comprehension.

Key Takeaways:

  • Between 1st and 5th grade, roughly 24% of what wealthy students learned was during the summer. For non-wealthy students, many had a reverse slide during that same time period.
  • Taking away the student’s instant gratification and teaching them to practice delayed gratification will positively impact their education.
  • Get your student hooked on books. It doesn’t matter what they’re reading as long as they are reading. It is the most essential skill to develop for academic success in all subjects.
  • If all your teen can do is read at the library, that is an amazing advantage for their education.

“Not only does reading ability helps students in English but again, it helps them in history, it helps them in biology, it will even touch upon and improve a student's math ability.” – David Blobaum

About David Blobaum: David Blobaum is a nationally recognized expert on the SAT and ACT. He is a graduate of the University of Chicago, and, in 2013, he and a former classmate started Summit Prep, a tutoring company with locations in Bernardsville and Summit, NJ that specializes in SAT and ACT tutoring. He is on the Board of Directors for the National Test Prep Association and serves as the organization's Director of Outreach to help highlight how academic standards can help students, schools, and society.

Episode References:
Get Your FREE Reading Assessment here: https://flourishcoachingco.com/read
Launch College & Career Clarity Course
Launch College and Career Clarity Facebook Community
Freshman Year For Free with Modern States: https://modernstates.org/freshman-year-free/
Take Lisa’s free quiz “Is your teen ready for coaching?” here- https://quiz.tryinteract.com/#/608984a7a898980017089b21/q/1

Connect with David Blobaum:
Website: https://summitprep.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/summitprep_
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/summit_prep/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SummitPrepNJ/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-blobaum000/

Listen to our previous episode with David here:
The Digital SAT https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/060-say-goodbye-to-the-paper-sat-test/

Connect with Lisa:
Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-marker-robbins/

Connect with Lisa:

Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-marker-robbins/

View Details

In this episode Lisa and Hanna discuss:

  • Categories of student misconduct from minor to major.
  • The evolution of misconduct by students (and how COVID rapidly changed some of those bad decisions).
  • Your teen’s obligation to disclose misconduct during the college admissions process (or not).
  • How your student can tell the truth, explain their story, and understand how colleges will perceive misconduct on applications.

Key Takeaways:

  • Young people will find boundaries to push against and they will test those boundaries, even if they're physically under their parent’s watch. This is normal and natural.
  • Students should have a wider and deeper set of college options as they build their college list if misconduct has been an issue.
  • On new campus visits, encourage students to look at their likely list and to be more open-minded when they may be harder for the college to admit.
  • The most important thing when writing admissions essays or applications is telling the truth. There is no such thing as the whole truth, but don’t try and hide the information.
  • Expulsion does not need to be the end of anybody’s education. There are many alternate paths forward. Any high school decision will never be the end of a student’s life or education.

“If there is any perception that you're blaming third parties for bad choices that you made, that is a very, very bad impression to leave. This is about you taking ownership for your decisions.” – Hanna Stotland
About Hanna Stotland: Hanna Stotland, JD flunked out of high school, got a G.E.D., and went on to graduate from Harvard College and Harvard Law School. For 24 years, she has served students facing the hardest college and law school admissions problems: six of the “Varsity Blues” families; hundreds of students accused of sexual misconduct; would-be students emerging from prison; even a victim of the Sarah Lawrence cult. The last two years produced an explosion of novel cases involving academic dishonesty during remote learning, misuse of social media, and violation of Covid protocols. She has advised countless students making serious character & fitness disclosures on both law school and bar applications. From 2008-2013, she was a career counselor for law students at Northwestern University School of Law and at Harvard Law School. She frequently serves as an expert witness in admissions-related litigation. Her recent professional presentations include conferences of the Independent Educational Consultants Association, the Higher Education Consultants Association, ten regional ACACs, and Families Advocating for Campus Equality. She has also been featured in the New York Times, Newsweek, CBS News, PBS, and WNYC.

Take Lisa’s free quiz “Is your teen ready for coaching?” here- https://quiz.tryinteract.com/#/608984a7a898980017089b21/q/1

Connect with Hanna:
Website: https://hannastotland.com/
Email: hanna@hannastotland.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hanna.stotland
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hanna-stotland-jd-84959013/

Connect with Lisa:

Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-marker-robbins/

View Details

In this episode Lisa and Lisa discuss:

  • What a military service academy is and how the experience differs from that of a traditional college.
  • The different college majors are emphasized at each military service academy.
  • What leadership looks like for applicants (and it’s not about the job title).
  • Requirements for military service academy applications and nominations.

Key Takeaways:

  • When graduating from a service academy, your student will graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree and be commissioned into a branch of the military according to where you attended.
  • Early in high school, students want to start thinking about their choices if they are considering attending a military service academy. This will give teens a chance to modify their runway and make changes to their habits as needed.
  • Academics are the single biggest part of the application, but military service academies are also looking at athletics and leadership.
  • Apply to every nomination the student is eligible for. The process will likely be different depending on each nominator.

“You're not going to get through the military service academy curriculum with all of the co-curricular responsibilities without being a master of time management, and if you're not a master of time management coming in, you will be going out.” – Lisa Rielage

About Lisa Rielage: Lisa is the founder of Admissions Decrypted. She graduated from the Naval Academy, served as a Naval Academy Blue and Gold Officer, and is a military spouse. With decades of experience, she is a go-to expert for students interested in military college programs.

Take Lisa’s free quiz “Is your teen ready for coaching?” here- https://quiz.tryinteract.com/#/608984a7a898980017089b21/q/1

Connect with Lisa:

Website: https://admissionsdecrypted.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisarielage/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AdmissionsDecrypted

Blog: https://admissionsdecrypted.com/blog/

Connect with Lisa:

Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-marker-robbins/

View Details

In this episode Lisa and Megan discuss:

  • Navigating the AP exams from sign-up through the exam season.
  • The myth of the magic number of AP courses to take in high school.
  • If your student should risk getting a B in a harder course of interest in instead of playing it safe with only A classes when choosing your high school courses.
  • Deciding whether you want to take the AP e exam and which scores to report to colleges.

Key Takeaways:

  • As early as 8th grade, be aware of what AP classes your high school offers. The course offerings and policies not only vary regionally but also between high schools even within the same district.
  • The student is only held responsible for pursuing the rigor that is available to them. If the AP classes are not available to you, it is not a big deal and colleges won’t look negatively on that.
  • Choose the AP courses that will assist your teen in their future career and college major. Do not take every single class available. Of those you do take, you do not have to take the exam for every course.
  • Speak to the teacher and the school counselor. AP courses are college-level courses but also vary in difficulty. Some students may be ready for an AP course during freshman year, others may not be until later.

“Do not let the fear of the AP exam stop you from taking a rigorous class.” – Megan Rose

About Megan Rose: I moved to Florida in November of 2019 from New Jersey, where I was a social studies teacher for 15 years and a school counselor for three at one of the top public high schools in the state. As a school counselor, I assisted hundreds of families with the college application process. From the search for a student's "dream school” to finalizing their enrollment, I have dealt with all the paperwork in between and take pride in streamlining the application process for both students and parents. I am a fully licensed school counselor and a member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association, National Association for College Admission Counseling & the Southern Association for College Admission Counseling. With a Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Education from the University of Maryland and a Masters of Science in Educational Counseling from Monmouth University, I recognize the lifelong benefits that choosing the right school provides.

Episode References:

  • College and Career Clarity Episode #054 High School Course Selection with Julie Spak

Take Lisa’s free quiz “Is your teen ready for coaching?” here- https://quiz.tryinteract.com/#/608984a7a898980017089b21/q/1

Connect with Megan:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/collegesolutionswindermere/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CollegeSolutionsWindermere/

Instagram: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megan-h-rose/

Connect with Lisa:

Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-marker-robbins/

View Details

In this episode Lisa and Elliot discuss:

  • The importance of trying new things before college.
  • Changing the mindset from where to go to college to how to go to college.
  • How to encourage your high schooler to know themselves.
  • Instilling resiliency in your children of any age.

Key Takeaways:

  • Think about your college experience as something you design to fit your personality and dreams. Design your college experience to what you love, don’t just drift through aimlessly.
  • Do a bunch of stuff! Curate experiences, both good and bad, to figure out what you do like, what you don’t like, and everything in between.
  • Nothing you try is a waste of time - every failure tells you just as much about yourself as successes do.
  • With a bit of research before a college tour, you can tailor your experience to what you want out of college, not just the general information given to all students.

“Before you get to college, you want to test lots of things out, whether it's an instrument, a club, a sport, an internship, or something career-related. See what's resonating. You’re trying to help students find their people, find their place, find their path, and that doesn't happen by accident.” – Elliot Felix

About Elliot Felix: Elliot Felix is an author, speaker, teacher, father, and consultant to more than a hundred colleges and universities. He uses his background in design to make college work for all students by improving the spaces they learn and live in, the support services they rely on, and the technology they use. Over the last 20 years, he has spoken at SXSW Edu, taught courses on innovation, and worked with top universities like Carnegie Mellon, MIT, NYU, NC State, and the University of Virginia. Brightspot Strategy, the education consulting company he founded in 2011 was acquired by Buro Happold in 2020 and has improved the experience of more than 1,000,000 students. You can find his work in Fast Company, Forbes, and The Chronicle of Higher Education. His book How to Get the Most Out of College was published in January 2022 by Alinea Learning. He lives in Minneapolis with his son Theo, daughter Nora, and wife Liz.

Episode References:
Book Giveaway! https://kingsumo.com/g/cxjdoe/college-career-clarity-how-to-get-the-most-out-of-college-book-contest
College and Career Clarity Episode #034 Overcoming College Major Confusion - https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/podcast/034-overcoming-college-major-confusion/

Take Lisa’s free quiz “Is your teen ready for coaching?” here! https://quiz.tryinteract.com/#/608984a7a898980017089b21/q/1

Connect with Elliot:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/elliotfelix
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elliotfelix/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elliotfelix/
Website: https://www.elliotfelix.com/
How to Get the Most Out of College Book: https://www.elliotfelix.com/book
How to Get the Most Out of College Podcast: https://www.elliotfelix.com/podcast
Email: hello@elliotfelix.com

Connect with Lisa:

Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-marker-robbins/

View Details

In this episode, Lisa, Dean, and Joyce discuss:

  • Differences between secular colleges and catholic colleges
  • What sets the student’s experience at a Catholic University apart from other schools
  • The experience of non-Catholic students attending a Catholic school
  • Unity is more observed than differences in a catholic college that are open to students of different backgrounds and faiths
  • It is beneficial for students who are engaged in a diverse college community with diverse opportunities

“There's this general commitment to serving the greater community, both your campus community, the local community, around your school, and even the global community just as far as extending the student's talents and seeing what is out there and where they're greatly needed.”

- Joyce Masek

About our guest Dean Kilgour:

Dean Kilgour serves as the Assistant Vice President for Strategic Enrollment Initiatives at Mount Saint Mary’s University, Los Angeles. He is responsible for managing strategic priorities, initiatives, and process improvements for the Enrollment Division in order to support the MSMU strategic plan.

About our guest Joyce Masek:

Joyce Masek leads the National CCAA's national office as executive director. Joyce earned both her bachelor's and master's degrees from Boston College, another National CCAA member school.

Take Lisa’s free quiz “Is your teen ready for coaching?” here: https://quiz.tryinteract.com/#/608984a7a898980017089b21/q/1

The National Catholic College Admission Associates: https://www.catholiccollegesonline.org/

Connect with Dean Kilgour:

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dean-kilgour-20bb509

Connect with Joyce Masek:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Catholiccolleges/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nationalccaa

Twitter: https://twitter.com/NCCAA1

Connect with Lisa:

Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-marker-robbins/

Hashtags for Social

#collegemajors #collegeadmissions #collegecounseling #careercoaching #careercounseling #parentsofteens #teenlifecoach #catholiccolleges

Connect with Lisa:

Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-marker-robbins/

View Details

In this episode Lisa and Susan discuss:

  • What admissions officers really want your teen to write about in their personal statement
  • Why your student shouldn’t look at online sample essays
  • A good plan of attack for essays over the summer so your child finishes on time

Key Takeaways:

  • It is important for your student to know that a college essay is not just a writing assignment but an opportunity to show their best qualities and characteristics that enables them to reflect as well.
  • If you want to show a sample essay to your student, you also need to consider the entire application to avoid imitation and repetition and so to understand how the essay supports the rest of the application.
  • The student must understand the prompt well and maintain the momentum in order to achieve a successful and effective college application essay.

“The real prompt is the schools want to know something about a student beyond what they’ve done. They’re looking for insight into their best qualities and characteristics.” - Susan Knoppow

About our guest Susan Knoppow:Susan Knoppow is the CEO of Wow Writing Workshop. Wow teaches students and educational professionals a simple, step-by-step process for writing effective college essays so students can stand out and tell their stories. Susan and her business partner Kim Lifton are members or affiliates of the Michigan Association of College Admission Counseling (MACAC), the National Association of College Admission Counseling (NACAC), the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA), and the Higher Education Consultants Association (HECA). They write and speak regularly to high school, parent and professional groups about the role of the college essay within the competitive admissions world.

Take Lisa’s free quiz “Is your teen ready for coaching?” here- https://quiz.tryinteract.com/#/608984a7a898980017089b21/q/1

Links mentioned in this episode:

Launch College & Career Clarity Course

Free E-Book: How To Write An Effective College Application Essay https://wowwritingworkshop.com/free-student-book/

Connect with Susan:

Website: Wow Writing Workshop - Your College Essay Experts

Blog: susanknoppow.wordpress.com

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanknoppow/

Connect with Lisa:

Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/

Facebook:

Connect with Lisa:

Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-marker-robbins/

View Details

In this episode Lisa and Marni discuss:

  • How you and your student can stay positive and be celebrating when decisions come in
  • Keeping a realistic perspective on the likelihood of getting into each college
  • Why proper college major planning is key to success
  • Prioritizing your teen’s mental health through the college-bound journey
  • What tasks you as the parent should do (and shouldn’t)

Key Takeaways:

  • It is a source of pride for you to know your child has been admitted to the college and major of your choice, where your teenager will excel, be given opportunities, and learn a lot.
  • The best way of keeping perspective on the likelihood of getting into college is to truly dig into data.
  • It is important for your student to be clear on their reason for entering college, which is anything from a fun adulting experience to opportunities to develop skills to being credentialed for a future job
  • Parental pressure and expectations must be managed for students to be empowered.
  • As a parent, your honesty through engaging in real conversations and showing great career counseling support is essential to know your teen is on the right path.

“Whatever the idea is, that is your child's journey. Be proud, celebrate them, and be proud of yourself to pat yourself on the back.” - Marni Levine

About Marni:

Marni is a Mentor and Professional Member of IECA. She is an independent educational consultant who has helped hundreds of families by guiding them along the college admissions journey. The skills she learned as an Advertising/Public Relations major at Boston University, equipped her for creating a comprehensive program to help high school students develop a unique picture of who they are so that they can find and be admitted to the perfect fit college where they will shine.

Take Lisa’s free quiz “Is your teen ready for coaching?” here- https://quiz.tryinteract.com/#/608984a7a898980017089b21/q/1

Links mentioned in this episode:

Launch College & Career Clarity Course

Episode #042 Will grade inflation hurt your teen?

Episode #053 ACT Data & the Story It Tells for Your Student

Connect with Marni:

Website: https://www.collegemarni.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marni-levine-52b39015a

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/collegemarni_/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marni.h.levine

Hashtags for Social

#collegemajors #collegeadmissions #collegecounseling #careercoaching #careercounseling #parentsofteens #teenlifecoach

Connect with Lisa:

Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-marker-robbins/

View Details

In this episode Lisa and Ryan discuss:

  • The six essential traits of successful entrepreneurs
  • How teenagers can test the waters of entrepreneurship now
  • Is college necessary and beneficial for entrepreneurship
  • What do entrepreneurs need to succeed?

Key Takeaways:

  • Our desire to take wisdom, our learnings, and lessons from leaps, guides better start-ups and a better life.
  • The six essential traits of an entrepreneur in the making are visionary, driven, passionate, problem solver, risk taker, and responsible.
  • Entrepreneurs need mentors and a learning environment where they can meet other people like them to succeed.
  • Knowing thyself is the first step for teens and young adults to take as they explore the real world of entrepreneurs with the support of their parents.

“The number one predictor of future success for those CEOs was not socio-economic background, it wasn't where they went to college, or if they went to college. It was how well they knew themselves. Self-awareness is the best predictor of future success.”

- Ryan Henry

About Ryan:

Ryan is a 3rd generation entrepreneur who grew up in a family business with a ‘family of businesses’ that involved shoe stores, lumber yards, real estate, and life insurance. His passion is helping fellow entrepreneurs, learn how to use the E-Leap Roadmap to start a better start-up, implement EOS and live the EOS Life. Ryan is committed to mastering his craft as the Visionary of E-Leap and as an EOS Implementer.

Take Lisa’s free quiz “Is your teen ready for coaching?” here- https://quiz.tryinteract.com/#/608984a7a898980017089b21/q/1

Links mentioned in this episode

Launch College & Career Clarity Course

Launch College and Career Clarity Facebook Community

Gino Wickman Presentation at Spring Arbor University

Entrepreneur-in-the-Making Assessment

Connect with Ryan Henry:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanhenry/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryanhenryeos/?hl=en

Website: https://www.eosworldwide.com/ryan-henry

Email: ryan@e-leap.com

Connect with Lisa:

Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-marker-robbins/

Hashtags for Social

#collegemajors #collegeadmissions #collegecounseling #careercoaching #careercounseling #parentsofteens #teenlifecoach

View Details

Is it really challenging for homeschooled students to get admitted to college? Regardless of whether the student attended a public, private, or homeschool, as long as they have strong communication skills, the student will be fine. In this episode, Rebecca Stuart-Orlowski shares how to positively present homeschooled students through the college application process.

HIGHLIGHTS:

  • Strong communication skills by both the parent and student are essential for homeschooled families
  • How to overcome barriers for homeschooled students applying to college
  • Special considerations in the college application process for homeschool families
  • Advice for college-bound homeschools families around test-optional policies
  • What families with 10th and 11th graders can do to make the future application process easier

Meet Our Guest

Rebecca Stuart-Orlowski has a Specialized Certificate in College Counseling from UCSD, a BA in Communicative Disorders from SDSU, and two active teaching credentials: Multiple Subjects w/ a Multicultural Emphasis and Communicatively Handicapped. She taught deaf, deaf/blind, LD, and twice-exceptional students for four years in Chula Vista and San Diego, and was an educational consultant for a small private Catholic PSP (Private Satellite Program) for three years. She has been an IEC since August 2012.

Long before Rebecca moved into her career as an IEC, she was honing her communication skills that currently serve her so well. Rebecca performed professionally as a jazz dancer for over 20 years for the likes of The Beach Boys, Bill Gates and Microsoft, and Visionary Dance Theatre, where she was a choreographer, teacher, and soloist. Her final choreographic piece can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AJ85xnwK0as Performing and interacting with professionals from all backgrounds lends itself well to her job as an IEC.

Rebecca is a professional member of IECA, co-chair of the IECA Homeschool Affinity Group, and a member of NACAC and WACAC. She is the parent of two Davidson Young Scholar Alums and presented at a Davidson Young Scholar Summit on 2E children in 2021. Each fall, she speaks to homeschoolers and their parents on the topic of homeschooling and college admissions for her local homeschool co-op. She has been independently homeschooling for 25 years and will graduate with her third and last child in June 2023. She specializes in gifted/2E, STEM, creative, homeschooled, and transfer students.

Listen on…the Flourish Site, Spotify, Apple, Google, Amazon Music, Stitcher, or your favorite platform.

“College & Career Clarity with Lisa is so helpful!” ← Is that you? If so, please consider rating and reviewing my show so I can resource more families and eliminate overwhelm. Thank you!!

Links mentioned in this episode:

Launch College & Career Clarity Course

Launch College and Career Clarity Facebook Community

Rebecca on LinkedIn

Access the episode transcript here.

View Details

Is the gap year for your teen? While only about 1% of American high school students currently take a gap year, the wildly popular custom in Europe is on the rise in the United States. Gap years can help your teen learn about the world, and different types of people, gain confidence and mature a little bit before they step onto a college campus.

EPISODE NOTES
March is the perfect time to talk about the gap year option, even if your teen is younger and isn’t gearing up for their freshman year of college quite yet. There are many reasons a graduating high school senior might opt for a gap year – a break from formal education and disappointment in their college acceptances are just two of the possible reasons.

A gap year is when a high school senior who intends to enroll in college decides to take a year off. About 20% of European students do this, compared to about 1.2% of American students. Students in the U.S. should consider this as an option because it can have great outcomes. While you might be concerned that a gap year would lead to your teen not making it to college, research shows about 90% of students who do take a gap year end up heading to college. The other 10% may discover that college isn’t the best path for them.

One university, Middlebury College, is a big supporter of the gap year, and they suggest your teen apply to colleges in their senior year of high school, and if they decide to take a gap year, they can defer for a year. Some 89% of colleges and universities in the U.S. have a deferment policy. Double-check that the colleges they’re applying to will allow this - there are some exceptions for those on waitlists.

The key to a successful gap year is to ensure the pause in your teen’s education is intentional. The Gap Year Association conducted a survey of students who took a gap year, and their most valuable experiences included learning how to interact with people from different backgrounds, people from other countries, and people different from themselves. Your teen can gain confidence and maturity from this character-building experience.

Links mentioned in this episodeLaunch College & Career Clarity Course

Launch College and Career Clarity Facebook Community

Episode #013 The Many Advantages of a Gap Year

Timeline
[00:00] Introduction
[02:02] What is a Gap Year?
[03:01] Gap Year Concerns
[04:48] When do you figure out that you want to do a gap year?
[08:44] What are the benefits of a gap year?
[10:43] How to design an intentional gap year
[14:01] How a gap year can be life-changing
[17:38] Four outcomes to think about
[20:23] Conclusion

View Details

As we hit the third anniversary of the COVID-19 pandemic, I’ve invited two guests, Amy Seeley and Cristiana Quinn, to discuss the effects it has had on college admissions. This includes both how students apply to college and how colleges determine who to admit. The last three years have felt like the wild west to those who work with college-bound families, so we know it feels even more so to you. Our conversation details the changes we’ve made to the advice we share with parents navigating the sometimes-bumpy road of helping their students get into college.

EPISODE NOTES:

With the rise of test-optional policies, the college admissions process has become more unpredictable for colleges, who are trying to determine which students will be successful on their campus. The average number of applications that students submit has greatly increased since 2020 and therefore colleges are inundated with applications making their job even more challenging.

On the college side, dealing with more applicants has made demonstrated interest and yield protection play a bigger role. Each college has a different idea of what they want their freshman class to look like: in-state and out-of-state students, international students, diversity, athletes, and legacy students to fill their roster. These priorities may change yearly based on leadership changes and more.
Families and colleges alike are taking more strategic approaches with early action, early decision 1 and 2, and regular decision. Early decision has become more selective since COVID, with acceptance rates dropping and more colleges filling a higher percentage of their seats during early decision. There have been new challenges in securing on-campus housing. It’s important to pay close attention to the changing rules around housing and enrollment deposit deadlines.

In addition to housing, your family ought to carefully check the admissions and financial aid pages of each school's website for important information about merit aid and other deadlines. Listen in and your family will have expert advice on reducing stress during the application process, minimizing the college list, and engaging with standardized testing despite the prevalence of test-optional policies.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Launch College & Career Clarity Course

College Admission Advisors, LLC

Seeley Test Pros

Tests and the Rest

Podcast Episodes Mentioned:

037 ACT-SAT Test Optional Admission Data

042 Will Grade Inflation Hurt Your Teen?

052 Demonstrated Interest: How It Can Help Guide Your College Search

TIMELINE:

[00:53] Intro
[02:15] Introducing The Episode Guests
[02:55] Changes To The College Application Process Post-Covid
[04:37] Admissions Changes And Their Causes
[05:08] Definition of Yield
[07:18] What Drives Yield Protection Efforts
[08:21] The Effects of Grade Inflation & Test-Optional Admissions
[12:47] How Many Schools a Student SHOULD Apply To
[13:49] College Application Best Practices
[16:23] Early Decision, Regular Decision & How They Affect Scholarships
[23:25] How Admission Fluctuations Affect Housing
[25:10] Demonstrated Interest Can Help
[26:19] Minimizing Stress Can Help
[27:55] Final Thoughts

View Details

It’s the end of an era for standardized testing. For the past 90 years, students have taken their SATs in a pencil-to-paper format. However, as ACT and SAT expert David Blobaum shares, 2023 is the final year of the paper SAT. In March 2024, the SAT will be an all-digital test and it will become adaptive. David explains what a digital-adaptive test is and gives advice for how your teen can best adapt to this change.

EPISODE NOTES
We’ll soon say goodbye to the paper SAT. Yes, you heard me correctly. 2023 is the last year of the paper SAT. The first 2024 test on March 9 will be a fully-digital test. And I'm sure you're already wondering, what does this mean to your teen's college-bound journey?

David Blobaum is a graduate of the University of Chicago and co-founder of Summit prep; his expertise is in college entrance testing.

In addition to being a digital test, the SAT will be adaptive to your teen. Each student will have the same first verbal section. Then, depending on your teen’s performance in that section, the next section will adapt based on ability. The same is true for the math portion. The good news is this means a shorter test moving from the current three-hour test to only two hours which is a win for students.

Unfortunately with any change in the middle of an academic year, the high school class of 2025, current sophomores, are caught in the crosshairs of change and will have to plan strategically. David recommends if your teen will be a junior in the 2023-24 school year and want to take the SAT instead of the ACT they should complete SAT testing by the end of 2023.

David does give some encouragement with the fact that for students doing SAT prep, the content of what is tested will remain very similar to the paper version; the major difference is the reading portion. If your teen has not completed algebra 2 before the junior year, David suggests considering the ACT instead of the SAT. One issue with the new SAT is there will be a shortage of materials to use when preparing and practicing for the SAT while the ACT has a lot of practice material available.
Will change be good? Time will tell and it will be a while before we know. In the meantime, college-bound families are encouraged to think strategically and plan ahead.

TIMELINE
[1:05] Introduction
[2:50] The end of an era with paper SATs
[4:25] Adaptive testing
[7:22] Current sophomores need to plan strategically
[13:21] Recruited athletes
[18:11] PSATs
[21:56] Parting words of advice from David
[23:30] Conclusion

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE
Get your College Planning Timeline

Launch College & Career Clarity Course

Connect with David at Summit Prep

Episode #022 The College-Bound Student Athlete

Episode #053 ACT Data and the Story It Tell for Your Student

View Details

Forensic accounting brings some excitement to the career path of accounting. My guest, professor Jim Vogt, shares it is multidisciplinary and is about much more than just accounting. In this episode, we discuss the types of students who might enjoy learning forensic accounting skills as well as the different career paths in this field. Students who show natural curiosity, perseverance, tenacity, and an analytical mind could benefit from making forensic accounting the aim of their college experience.

SHOW NOTES
In this episode of the "College and Career Clarity" podcast, Lisa Marker-Robbins talks with Jim Vogt, who teaches accounting and fraud at San Diego State University and the University of Colorado Denver. Vogt has had an exciting accounting career working with businesses in fraud protection and prevention. He talks about the multidisciplinary nature of forensic accounting and the importance of skills such as natural curiosity, perseverance, analytical thinking, and excellent communication skills.

Vogt emphasizes that forensic accounting is not just about numbers; it also involves skills in interviewing techniques and identifying if someone is being deceptive. He addresses the misconception that accounting is a boring field and shows how forensic accounting can be a great fit for those with accounting degrees, as well as those with other degrees.

While accounting is the most common and probably the best path to take for a career in forensic accounting, Vogt explains that there are other degrees and certifications that can be helpful, such as finance or business degrees, and certifications such as Certified Fraud Examiner. He also suggests that an internship or work experience can be helpful in getting a foot in the door, especially for organizations such as the FBI, which hires forensic accountants and agents with accounting degrees.

Vogt discusses the full spectrum of the career path in forensic accounting, which includes prevention, detection, investigation, and legal resolution. He notes that organizations often overlook the prevention and detection side of forensic accounting, which leads to more cases requiring investigation and legal resolution. He also mentions the broad field of forensic accounting, which includes business valuation, commercial damages, and other areas outside of fraud investigation and examination.

In terms of where forensic accountants might find work, Vogt suggests that banks and financial institutions are great places to start, as almost all of them have someone working in consumer fraud, credit card fraud, or check fraud. Other potential employers include law enforcement agencies, accounting firms, and consulting firms.
Overall, the episode provides valuable insights into the diverse and exciting field of forensic accounting and highlights the skills and attributes that are essential for a successful career in this area.

Links mentioned in this episodeLaunch College & Career Clarity Course
FBI Jobs
FBI Student Opportunities
Stay in touch with Jim on LinkedIn
AICPA Forensic Accounting

View Details

Computer science is currently one of the hottest college majors. The job opportunities are plentiful and promise a great return on your investment in your child’s college education. But demand has made CS programs competitive. Is it the right program for your child? And if so, what can your teen do to maximize their chance of being accepted? Jennifer Stephan is a university dean of academic advising and a private college counselor working primarily with STEM-focused students. She breaks down what colleges look for in teens applying to computer science programs.

EPISODE NOTES

Over the past decade and a half, the job market and economy have seen their fair share of ups and downs. As a parent, you want to know when your child graduates from college, they’ll be able to get a well-paying job in their field. This starts with choosing the right major. Studying computer science can open many doors for your student after graduation, and CS has become one of the most highly sought-after majors. Unfortunately, it is also one of the most competitive majors, with several top programs boasting admissions rates in the single digits.

Jennifer Stephan is a Dean of Academic Advising and Undergraduate Studies at Tufts University’s School of Engineering and an independent college admissions counselor. We discuss computer science as a discipline, course of study, and career to determine what kind of student is equipped to thrive in this field. Of course, a solid background in math and science is a must, but if you’ve got a creative teen on your hands, computer science might be an avenue they want to explore.

If your student has already demonstrated an interest in computer science, it’s important to help them develop a college application that will help them stand out from a crowd of other highly qualified applicants. The key is authenticity. Computer science-oriented coursework and extracurriculars are an excellent place to start. Still, to get into some of the best computer science programs, your student will need to demonstrate intellectual curiosity, creative problem-solving, and genuine interest throughout their application.

Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Launch College & Career Clarity Course

Lantern College Counseling Website

TIMELINE
[00:44] Introduction
[01:57] computer science’s popularity boom
[03:41] It’s all about creative problem solving
[06:53] The competitiveness of computer science programs
[12:09] Giving your application a strong CS fingerprint
[17:01] Demonstrate intellectual curiosity
[19:29] Considering majors outside computer science
[21:36] Pursue what you really love

View Details

At many schools, like the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, prospective students must apply to a specific major when applying to college during the high school senior year. Since this is not standard at all colleges, it can be a confusing hurdle for many high schoolers and their families - but it doesn’t have to be. What does this mean for your teen? In this episode with Andy Borst, UIUC’s Director of Undergraduate Admissions, you’ll learn how college major-based admissions works and how to set your teen up to successfully navigate the process.

EPISODE NOTES
Although it can sometimes seem like it, admissions officers aren’t in the business of crushing your teen’s dreams. In fact, they want to make things possible for as many students as they can, and that’s where a college major-based admissions process can come into play. Each university can only accommodate a certain number of students in each program, so this type of application can help admissions staff focus on the students that are truly interested in the major and most likely to thrive.

When it comes to schools that admit by major, you might be surprised to learn that certain majors at these schools might be restricted to your student applying only as a 12th grader. For instance, if your child wants to study Computer Science at UIUC, they can only be admitted as a freshman or a transfer from another school. This means it’s crucial that your student does the work in high school to identify a college major that aligns to their wiring.

Andy warns not to try to take a shortcut into these highly competitive majors by applying for a different major in the hopes of transferring into your student’s desired field later. Trying to game the system isn’t wise. In these cases, your teen will be better off attending a different university where they have an assured start in their top choice major.

Of course, this kind of application process can feel unfair to your high schooler who is just on the cusp of adulthood. That’s where the Flourish Coaching course Launch Career Clarity comes in. In our online course with live support, our goal is to help your teen discover the right college major so your teen finds the right college and has more favorable outcomes.

Links mentioned in this episode
Launch College & Career Clarity Course
UIUC Tool on Majors

Timeline
● [00:17] - Introduction
● [02:21] - How applications to individual majors work
● [06:19] - The role that capacity plays in the admissions process
● [07:07] - What do universities look for?
● [08:58] - How important are extracurriculars?
● [10:56] - Can students change majors later on?
● [14:57] - How common are restricted majors?
● [18:17] - Transparency in the process
● [21:19] - Finding your fit at Illinois

View Details

Your teen will go to college to both live and learn, so it’s important to find a campus that is a good social fit along with academic programs and financial aid offerings to match your student. How do you tell which colleges might be a good match for your high school student? In this episode, Anita Gajula, an independent college counselor, and I give you insights into finding the best home away from home for your child.

EPISODE NOTES
When your teen starts window shopping for colleges, it can be tempting to hold out for the perfect match. However, I firmly believe and teach that there are no soulmate colleges. So while the “perfect” school may not exist, there are likely many places where your child can thrive if given they give it a chance.

Anita Gajula and I arm your family with ways to start your search in this episode. Since your teen has never attended a university before, we provide guidance on how you can use their high school experience to frame their search. Asking the right questions is key to determining if a college is a good option.

Anita also shares additional strategies to guide your search like how to people-watch on campus and we list our favorite apps and platforms you can use to weed out colleges that are poor matches, along with choosing which schools to invest in a visit.

Your family will be wise to also remember that college, like many other things in life, will be what you make of it. Sometimes the right mindset can matter more than the right school. That’s why, to avoid disappointment, starting your college search knowing every school will have its quirks and drawbacks will serve your family well. Remember not to let perfect become the enemy of good!

Links mentioned in this episode:
Launch College & Career Clarity Course

Episode #031 Your College List: Social Fit

CollegeWise Website

College Search Sites:

Niche

Loper

Campus Reel

College Scoops

Timeline

[00:17] Introduction
[01:57] A campus should be your child’s home away from home
[02:49] Don’t expect perfection or a soulmate match
[04:53] Start considering colleges through the lens of the high school experience
[07:33] Start window shopping at local college campuses
[12:27] Resources for finding potential college matches
[14:31] Follow college social media accounts
[17:29] How much does social fit matter?
[21:22] Sign-off

View Details

Regardless of your family’s financial situation, the thought of paying more than necessary for college is a less-than-desirable prospect. With a variety of scholarships available to students, families of all income levels are wise to take advantage of any opportunities they can. It may feel like the odds are stacked against you and your high school student when it comes to knowing where to look for scholarships, how to apply, and whether or not it is worth your teen investing the time to apply. In this episode, my expert guest, Jennifer Finetti answers these questions and gives great advice for your family.

EPISODE NOTES

My guest Jennifer Finetti has supported over 12,000 college-bound students who are trying to figure out how to fund college. Her expertise is from her own journey with her children, the work she does with ScholarshipOwl.com, and her background in counseling and psychology. There are three types of scholarships that students can apply for, and Jennifer does a fantastic job of breaking down the three categories, as well as the advantages and downsides of each type. She provides great tips for when and how your teen should apply, as well as how to determine which applications are worth the effort. Not all scholarship opportunities are created equal.

High school can of course be a very busy and sometimes stressful period for you and your student. Jennifer believes, and I tend to agree, that it’s important for your teen to carry some responsibility for paying for their college education. Whether this means working a job and building their savings or applying for as many scholarships as they can, many students are going to have to find some way of easing the financial burden of college. This is generally true regardless of your family’s financial situation. Thankfully, there are many available funding options, so the more your student is able to get out there and find that free money, the easier it will be to find the school that will truly be their best financial fit. With thousands of 4-year universities, there is a fit for everyone regardless of your budget. I hope this episode gives you a few more tools to help you find common-sense ways to achieve your teen’s post-graduation goals.

Links mentioned in this episode

Launch College & Career Clarity Course

Launch College and Career Clarity Facebook Community

ScholarshipOwl Website

The ScholarshipOwl Community on Discord

**Find ScholarshipOwl on social channels @scholarshipowl

TIMELINE**

[2:36] Students should take some responsibility toward paying for their own college education.

[4:33] How to find a school that is a good financial fit.

[6:30] Why setting financial parameters, and staying within (or even below) your means is important from the outset.

[10:00] How students can save money and avoid taking out student loans.

[11:58] The three different types of scholarships and how to apply for them

[15:89] How much work does it take to get scholarships, and is it worth it?

[20:00] When is the right time to apply for scholarships?

[20:58] How to apply for private, external scholarships

[23:23] At what age should students start applying for scholarships?

View Details

High school course selection always feels tricky balancing the needs and wants of the student, figuring out the proper level of rigor, and understanding what colleges expect. Whether your student is picking their classes this month or the next, it’s important to have those conversations now. Whether your student’s GPA, their future college admissions, or fulfilling prerequisites for future courses, the high school curriculum they choose can have a big impact. I invited my colleague Julie Spak, an independent college counselor, to discuss the choices your teen will soon be making and how you can best support them in choosing and pursuing their future goals.

EPISODE NOTES

The classes your student takes in high school can have a major impact on both their high school and college careers. And there’s more to strategic course selection than just loading up on AP classes. It’s important to consider which classes will be relevant to your teen’s interests and future college major. Plus, taking a rigorous course load is only impressive on a college application if the student can handle the workload and thrive. That’s why it’s vital to really consider which classes will be best for a student’s long-term goals.

In this episode, I speak with my friend and colleague, Julie Spak, about the best ways for your family to approach selecting courses for your teen. To start, it’s always a good idea to learn as much as possible about the curriculum offered each school year - expect changes from year to year. This might mean attending informational meetings, academic fairs, or simply reading the course catalog online.

We advise once you start selecting courses, it’s important that you think about future school years as well. This means that even freshman students should consider what they want to study in their senior year. After all, they don’t want to be prevented from signing up for a vital class later because they didn’t take the prerequisites.

And if your teen will be a junior next year, it’s important to remember their senior year is not for slacking! Colleges will look at senior year transcripts, so you don’t want to skip that fourth year of math, load up on fluff, or fail to take your coursework seriously.

Ultimately, every class a student takes in high school will be important to their future. That’s why taking the course selection process seriously is so essential. Fortunately, if you need a little guidance, this episode is full of insights, tips, and tricks.

Links mentioned in this episodeLaunch College & Career Clarity Course
Launch College and Career Clarity Facebook Community
Find Julie on LinkedIn
Julie at LEAP

Timeline[0:42] Intro

[2:22] When do high schools start scheduling courses?

[3:30] Should families attend the school’s informational meetings about course selection?

[5:33] Why you should pay attention to the curriculum guides

[7:50] Plan for future semesters by taking prerequisites

[9:35] Review college websites for their high school course selection recommendations

[11:20] The common data set

[12:29] Why senior year classes are just as important

[14:50] Check the AP and dual enrollment credit policy for each college you are interested in

[17:48] The importance of senior year math classes

[21:23] Choosing when you should take an AP class

[23:39] The benefits of taking foreign language classes

[26:17] What defines a fluff class, and why should you avoid them?

[28:14] Julie’s contact information

[28:46] Wrap-up

View Details

You may have heard in the news that ACT scores dipped to a 30-year low in 2022. This episode explores the implications of the ACT test: what it measures, what it means in terms of college entrance, and how even a less-than-ideal score can serve as a roadmap to help your student find where they are to where they want to be in the future.
EPISODE NOTES:

You may have heard in the news that ACT scores dipped to a 30-year low in 2022. At the same time, many studies have shown that high school GPAs seem to have reached an all-time high as grade inflation continues to climb. What does this mean for your student, and how do you ensure they are properly equipped for the road ahead? My guest Rose Babbington currently works as the senior director for ACT state partnerships, and she has many insights to share that help simplify this often stressful and intimidating area of college readiness.

Even though the ACT gives an overall score as a metric to predict success during the first year of college, in reality, there are four separate areas contributing to the overall average, and these scores often give a more accurate assessment of what’s going on with your student’s high school achievement and future college success. ACT includes college readiness benchmark scores as well. High scores can show your student’s strengths, but consistently low scores don’t necessarily need to be a cause for dismay. In fact, they can serve as useful markers to create a successful strategy going forward. These may be identifying learning gaps in your child’s education where they may need extra support. Identifying these things early on are important ways to ensure success in college and beyond, and as it turns out, the ACT is an excellent, data-driven way to do just that.

Links mentioned in this episode:

Episode #042: Will grade inflation hurt your teen?

Launch College & Career Clarity Course

ACT Website

Gradclass 2022

TIMELINE SUMMARY

0:32: ACT scores for the class of 2020 reach a 30-year low

2:22: ACT data and its importance for students and families

11:27: High number of students not meeting college readiness benchmarks

12:18: Proponent of students starting early on the ACT test

13:03: ACT score report breaks down subject areas for improvement

14:13: The value of getting test booklets back for improvement

15:20: ACT test reflects a student's performance on a single day.

View Details

In this episode, Sylvia Borgo and I discuss how a student’s demonstrated interest in a college can create an admission advantage for your teen and how you can determine which colleges don’t care about demonstrated interest. Sylvia also shares how she advises high school students to consider the value demonstrating interest brings to their college-bound journey.
EPISODE NOTES

The second half of 10th grade is the ‘sweet spot’ for your teen to start their research on colleges, starting perhaps with schools in your area. And if your family has not started by junior year, it’s time to get hustling!

Demonstrated interest is when your teen engages with a college prior to applying. Many colleges track how much your student demonstrates interest. From a college’s standpoint, they want your student to engage as they know they are more likely to attend if admitted. Therefore, for colleges that do track demonstrated interest, your teen’s engagement with them can lead to an admission advantage. If you want to find out if a college doesn’t care or track demonstrated interest, look at the common data set, section C-7. When tracking demonstrated interest the colleges are checking whether you are engaging and responding to the communications they send, visiting their website, opening the emails they send, visiting their campus, and more. This metric helps colleges understand if you are serious about attending their institution.
Other ways for demonstrating interest include getting on the school’s mailing list, visiting the college, or meeting with a regional rep when they visit your high school. You can also have your teen write an email to the rep. They must do it themselves because the colleges can tell when the parents write the email. The colleges want to hear from your student. Your teen will get excited when they hear back from a regional rep or professor!

Alternatively, suppose your student is overwhelmed with mail after taking the PSAT. In that case, you can make it a weekly task to unsubscribe to all emails from colleges they aren’t interested in for whatever reason. From your student's standpoint, showing demonstrated interest is part of the process of making an informed decision on where to go to college.

Links mentioned in this episode
Launch College & Career Clarity Course

How-to video: Demonstrated Interest: How to find it on the Common Data Set

Get your email templates: Tips for Sending Student Emails that get a Reply

Sylvia on Instagram

DJ Educational Consulting on FB

Sylvia on LinkedIn

Timeline
[0:38] Intro
[2:43] What is demonstrated interest
[3:34] Why Colleges use demonstrated interest
[4:35] Why admissions look lower than they used to
[6:19] Ways to demonstrate interest
[8:10] Campus visits & pre-prep for regional rep visits.
[9:53] The importance of teens making the effort to reach out
[11:44] How to clear the inbox clutter from colleges
[14:13] Be intentional about what you value.
[15:59] Ways having a good understanding of the college is helpful
[17:40] When to start looking at colleges.
[19:06] Colleges that explain career paths and admission needs well
[20:56] Choosing a college is the process of making an informed consumer decision
[23:13] Keep college discussions to one day a week

View Details

We’re halfway through the academic year! That means some college-bound students and their families may feel like they’ve fallen a bit behind with their college prep. However, others might be diligently sticking to a tight timeline. Which one are you? Regardless of where you are in the process, maintaining the right approach can be key as you move forward. In this episode, I’ll give you tips for catching up, keeping up, and inspiration so that you can make timely progress with your goals and deadlines.

EPISODE NOTES

Your dreams can be an amazing source of motivation. By harnessing their power, you can be propelled down the path to accomplishing your goals. However, it’s important to not let your expectations become too rigid. Not only does life not always go according to plan, but sometimes being flexible can actually be beneficial for you and your college-bound student in the long run. That’s why approaching the college journey with an open mind is going to be key.

You never want to let your idea of what should happen to get in the way of what could happen. That means you should hold your expectations loosely and be open to changing your plan or even your goals for what comes after graduation as you learn along the way. Of course, some things, like budgets and application deadlines, are best approached firmly. So it’s essential to know when to be open-minded and when to be more rigid - I’ll give you some guidance in this episode.

College-bound conversations and work sessions are great tools to help you navigate this tricky process of preparing for higher education. Holding space to engage with your planning every week makes it easier to stay on track and keep your expectations in check. This is also a great strategy if you’re behind on your college prep because it can help you catch up and feel confident in the process. Learn from one of my client’s success stories in this episode and you’ll leave inspired!

Links mentioned in this episode

College Planning Timeline Download
Launch College & Career Clarity Course
Launch College and Career Clarity Facebook Community

TIMELINE

[0:00] Introduction
[0:37] Halfway Through the School Year Check-In
[1:55] The Importance of the Right Mindset
[3:15] Why More Information is Always a Win
[4:20] Where To Stay Firm
[5:13] Get Comfortable With Being Uncomfortable
[6:30] College-Bound Conversation
[8:57] College Planning Timeline
[10:30] Feeling Behind
[13:07] Conclusion

View Details

Covid brought about the rapid growth of SAT and ACT test-optional for college admissions, which has been great for some students. As we move past Covid, should your teen be taking the tests now? My friend Brooke Hanson from Supertutor Media Inc and SupertutorTV says in most cases yes! In this episode she shares the data to demonstrate that among top selective colleges they are accepting more students who took a test, even when those schools loudly claim to be test-optional. Listen to the episode for the inside scoop on why this once test optional supporter has reconsidered the value of testing. Her students will be taking the test and you may just discover your teen should too.

EPISODE NOTES

SupertutorTV's Brooke Hanson has been a supporter of test-optional for many years, but recently changed her mind based on data discovered from school admissions reports and her own belief in the positive mindset shift that comes from test prep and testing. There are some high school students for whom testing will always be difficult, but she still encourages taking the tests for a number of reasons. Many teens were off the hook during the pandemic because testing centers were closed, yet a growing number of schools are requiring tests again.

First there are also data-driven reasons for testing. Did you know even some test-blind schools, those which wouldn't normally look at anyone's results, will factor in scores if you were in the top 50% of applicants? Many colleges that say they are test-optional are providing an admission advantage to those with test scores. I had a previous student who unscientifically surveyed her peers in her Honors College and couldn’t find a single admitted student who applied without ACT or SAT scores at her test optional college.

Brooke gives a good reminder to consider your teen’s mindset. I think of testing like the clubs and activities from high school. They may be optional, but you wouldn't go to school and skip the activities. Students want to show they can actually do the work of college and graduate. Maybe testing has become a circus, but with Brooke's test prep and my college and career coaching, we want to set your student up to make informed decisions about their future so they don't go in blindly or leave things to chance.

Highlights * What made Brooke stop being in favor of test optional * ACT-SAT admission data from the top 200 schools * Who might benefit from test optional * How ACT-SAT testing and prep create a positive mindset shift

Links mentioned in this episodeSupertutor Media Inc. Youtube
Flourish Coaching on YouTube
College Data: Best and Worst Best for Test Optional
Supertutor Media on Insta/Twitter/Tiktok: @supertutortv
National Test Prep Association Member Directory
Launch College & Career Clarity Course
Launch College and Career Clarity Facebook Community

View Details

We all know that college is expensive, so parents don’t like the idea of their students wasting time on majors; they end up changing while trying to figure out their career path. Vicki Weisbrod is a counselor atBishop Fenwick High School in Ohio and along with her team, they are the first high school to work with Lisa in the Launch Career Clarity Course.

Find out how Lisa’s program coupled with theBirkman personality test has become a GAME CHANGER for Fenwick H.S. and helps students and parents look for college majors and careers that students can excel in according to their personal interests, values, and wiring. They discuss the importance of adding career to the conversation around future planning.

Highlights:

(2:59) The difference between roles of being a high school counselor and college counselor and how her career has changed in those roles.

(4:05) How the team works with families to address the academic, social, and emotional college and career aspects of high school.

(6:12) How they decided to add career counseling to their program in addition to college counseling.

(10:07) Vicki talks about how improving planning for college and future careers became personal for her, being a parent herself and she used the Birkman test for the first time.

(13:25) The change to college planning that took place 4 years ago at Fenwick H.S.

(16:42) How Vicki’s team feels more effective in their jobs since using the Birkman and working with Lisa.

(20:24) When is the best time to give students the Birkman test to meet them where they are?

(23:22) Advice to parents of students that don’t have these resources.

(26:29) How and when to talk to students about planning for the future.

(27:52) How to learn more about Fenwick H.S. or get in touch with Vicki.

If you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast so you never miss valuable content to help your teen.

Links mentioned in this episode:

Bishop Fenwick High School

Birkman Personality Test

Join the Launch College & Career Clarity free Facebook community

Launch Career Clarity Course

View Details

As parents, what we want the most is for our kids to lead happy lives. However, even though our hearts are in the right place, we sometimes struggle to say the right thing to help our children in moments of stress and crisis. This is especially true when it comes to parenting and motivating college-bound teens. Navigating these moments can be challenging, but my guest today, Ned Johnson, has some advice that can help. He’s literally co-authored a book on it - twice- and he has some great insights on empathy and validation, as well as strategies to help support your teen in an effective manner.

EPISODE NOTES

Ned Johnson is an expert in promoting success in teens. He’s spent thousands of hours tutoring college-bound students and helping them manage their stress and anxiety, as much as their academics. He’s also co-authored two books with William Stixrud, Ph.D., on the neuroscience behind motivating your kids and setting them up for success. So it’s safe to say, he has some pretty good insights into the subject.

Ned shares with you how to really motivate your student in an effective manner. This is something I know many parents are concerned about, especially with important future planning, standardized tests, and college applications on the horizon. Ned emphasizes how important it is to approach your teen from a place of understanding and to meet them where they are. If you don’t want your advice to fall on deaf ears, you’ll definitely want to hear what he has to say about engaging with empathy and validation.

In many situations, especially when your teen is upset, your parental instincts are going to be to offer solutions and try to make everything better as quickly as possible. However, what’s going to often be most important, is offering your teen the kind of support that they need. If you don’t know what they’re looking for in an interaction, ask them if they want to vent, brainstorm a resolution, or if something else will help. For more guidance, you should also be sure to listen to this episode, because it will offer a lot of useful neuroscience-based information and helpful advice. My conversation with Ned was really illuminating, and I truly learned new methods to help me navigate with both my clients and my own now young adult kids.

Highlights ● Why is it important to help teens feel a sense of control, especially in high school and the college-bound process
● Why putting more pressure on your high school student isn’t an effective motivation strategy
● A guide to responding with empathy and validation to get to a sustainable model of motivation
● A preview for Ned’s new chapter about helping your kids on their way to happiness

Links mentioned in this episodeBook: The Self-Driven Child

Book: What Do You Say?: How to Talk with Kids to Build Motivation, Stress Tolerance, and a Happy Home

PrepMatters Website

Twitter: @NedJohnson

TikTok: @theothernedjohnson

Instagram: @theothernedjohnson

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/TheOtherNedJohnson/

Launch College & Career Clarity Course

The Self-Driven Child: The Science and Sense of Giving Your Kids More Control Over Their Lives
What Do You Say?: How to Talk with Kids to Build Motivation, Stress Tolerance, and a Happy Home

View Details

What does the college-bound journey look like for neurodiverse students who have ADHD, Autism spectrum disorder, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, and other learning disabilities? What should parents of high school students with learning differences keep in mind as they navigate the road toward college and career? My guest in this episode is Eric Endlich, a clinical psychologist and educational consultant who has worked with his organization, Top College Consultants, serving families with neurodivergent students to create a successful college bound strategy.

EPISODE NOTES

If you have a child with learning differences, you probably already know that their path in life often looks a little different from that of their neurotypical peers. So when it comes to creating a college-bound strategy, it should come as no surprise that this is also going to require some outside the box thinking. If your child has ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, dyslexia, dyspraxia, or other learning disabilities, what can you be doing as a parent to ensure a successful journey and college experience for your student?

As a parent of a neurodivergent child, and as an independent educational consultant with decades of experience, Eric Endlich has a wealth of knowledge on the ins and outs of higher education and campus life for those with learning differences. While most schools are able to accommodate disabilities to a certain extent, some schools are able to go above and beyond with special programs designed to support students with different needs. Finding these neurodiversity-friendly colleges may be a crucial part of finding the right college fit for your family.

I love the point that Eric makes about the difference between a high school student who is college-capable and one who is college-ready. This is an important distinction, and one that even parents of neurotypical kids should keep in mind as they prepare their teen for college. Often, our teens are able to take on the demands of higher education at an academic level, but they really aren’t prepared for the experience of navigating life on their own outside the home. No matter what the unique needs of your child may be, it’s never too early to start thinking about how to get them ready for college in ways other than just academics. I hope you find this conversation to be encouraging and inspiring as you find the right college fit for the unique needs of your student.

Highlights

  • How to determine if your teen is “college ready” or “college capable”
  • Managing stress and anxiety when applying and transitioning to college
  • Available options and services in college for students with learning differences
  • Disability disclosure and ACT/SAT testing accommodations

Links mentioned in this episode

College Major & Career Planning for Neurodivergent Students

Launch College & Career Clarity Course

Top College Consultants Website

Top College Consultants Facebook

Top College Consultants YouTube

Top College Consultants LinkedIn

Autism In College

Top College Consultants Articles

View Details

Today’s uncertain financial atmosphere likely has you nervous about the future. From higher prices at the gas pump and in the grocery stores to a rapidly fluctuating stock market, families all over the country are having to make tough financial choices. Today, I am joined by two good friends of mine who work closely with college-bound families, Beth Walker, a Registered Financial Advisor, and Beatrice Schultz, a Certified Financial Planner, to discuss why college should remain on the table, and how families can help their college-bound students succeed in these challenging times.

EPISODE NOTESAre we in a recession? I’m not a financial expert, so I honestly don’t know.

I do know that these uncertain financial times we are currently living in are having a massive impact on the families of the college-bound students that I work with and as a mother, I know what it feels like to navigate the process of paying for my child’s college education without knowing for certain what the future might hold.

Today, I'm sitting down for a conversation with two of my close friends, Beth Walker, of Center for College Solutions who is a Registered Financial Advisor, and Beatrice Schultz, of Westface College Planning who is a Certified Financial Planner. Together, we give you a better understanding of the current state of the economy, what that means for us as Americans, and most importantly what that means for college-bound students and their families as they make those big decisions about where to go to school, what course of study to pursue, and of course how they are going to pay for it all.

In addition to talking about the current uncertain state of the financial markets, and what that means for your 529 savings accounts and other college financial savings options. We take a look at what your best, and safest options are for investing in your student’s future, and when is the right time to start thinking about changing the plan.

We’ll also explore the different pathways you can take to achieve the desired outcome, a four-year degree, and why it is so important to not give up on pursuing higher education even in the face of uncertain times.

You may consider your student taking a gap year, and we’ll provide you with insights on how to use that time in the most productive way if your student does choose to go that route. Your student will also want to consider the potential long-term costs of attempting to attend college part-time versus diving in and committing to working full-time toward their degree.

Join us as we discuss the importance of higher education, the multiple paths you and your student can take to help get them to the goalposts, and the long-term benefits of including your child in these financial and future planning discussions.

We all agree that there is no better way to ensure your child’s future success than to help them earn a college degree or attend a trade school. We will show you how careful planning can help you recession-proof your college planning.

Links mentioned in this episode

#002 How to Raise An Adult

#013 The Many Advantages of a Gap Year Paying for College Episodes:

#009 How Smart Parents Find the Right School for the Right Price

#018 How to Get Freshman Year Free

#032 Your College List: Financial Fit

View Details

I love being able to have people on the show who are great at what they do, and are able to share their expertise and insight with my listeners. Ali Wolfe is a professional photographer in the greater Cincinnati area and I am a huge fan of her work. In fact, she just finished up a photo shoot with us here at Flourish and I just love what she has created! In this episode, Ali shares with us what it’s like to work in a creative field, and why a college degree can be an important part of what it takes to become a good photographer.

EPISODE NOTES

While careers in STEM fields are growing all the time, it can be easy to forget to look into other areas when planning for the future, especially when it comes to artistic careers like photography or other visual arts. But if you have a teen who has artistic abilities and passions, they will benefit from hearing what Ali has to say about how to build skill as an artist. She also makes a strong case for a college degree when pursuing photography.

As Ali explains, there are so many skills to master in order to be successful in this career. There is much more to the job than having a good eye for a shot and knowing how to use the equipment. Owning, managing and growing a business requires a whole different set of skills, not to mention the ins and outs of interacting with people in a variety of ways, and building rapport and trust with clients.

Whether your teen is interested in photography specifically or simply has a more artistic bent, I hope this episode serves as an inspiration for them to follow their talents and passions, build their personal portfolio, and seek to expand their skills so they can share their gift with others as a successful artist in the future.

Links mentioned in this episodeLaunch College & Career Clarity Course

Launch College and Career Clarity Facebook Community

Ali Wolfe Photography Website

Ali Wolfe Photography Facebook

Ali Wolfe Photography Instagram

Timeline[2:53] Is it worth it to get a college degree for something like photography?

[4:29] The differences between artistic photography (or photojournalism), and commercial applications

[8:06] How to decide which type of photography to pursue

[10:10] How the photographic process works from start to finish, and why relatively little time is spent actually behind the camera.

[12:21] What skills are involved in being a photographer

[15:00] A peek into the schedule of a professional photographer

[17:55] Advice for anyone thinking of pursuing a career in photography

View Details

No matter how old you are or where you’re at in life, meeting new people and building a network can be intimidating. For young students just starting out on their journey, it can be downright terrifying. But it doesn’t have to be. In this episode, I’m speaking with Julie Crenshaw, author of the bestselling book Navigating & Avoiding Awkward Conversations,and she has some beneficial tips to share that can give your teen a confidence boost as they begin to connect with future employers and educators.

EPISODE NOTES

No matter how thorough your high school student’s college list may be or how detailed the plan is, it’s impossible to achieve any of their goals without reaching out and connecting with other people. Whether it’s emailing a college admissions officer, requesting a job shadow, or sitting for an interview, it can be scary for your teen to put themself out there. Sometimes though, as Julie reminds us, all it takes is a shift in perspective to help get rid of some of those jitters. When your student understands that the other person is just trying to get to know them, it can help your student overcome the crippling fear of judgment.

In this episode, you and your teen can explore the give and take that exists in a productive conversation. It’s not always about being interesting; you’ll want your student to also be interested in the person they are talking to, while still putting their best foot forward. Rather than feeling like they have to sell themselves, or being afraid of what might go wrong, with Julie’s advice and tips on navigating conversations and interviews your teen can be confident in their ability to express themself and determine their right path.

Highlights * What your interviewer wants teens to know before the interview * How and what to practice ahead of time * Addressing your teen’s lack of experience * What to avoid that may ruin the interview

Links mentioned in this episodeLisa’s Student Email Guide & Templates
Launch College & Career Clarity Course
Launch College and Career Clarity Facebook Community
Your Conversation Expert Website
Julie on Instagram
Julie’s Small Talk Guide

TIMELINE

[5:11] How to overcome the anxiety that comes with reaching out to new people

[10:00] Why people often have hobbies that don’t seem to align with their careers, and how talking about them with others can be a way to connect

[13:18] How to know if a certain area is actually a good fit for you.

[18:37] What not to do when making connections with people

[22:03] How to have an answer for tough questions, or questions with less-than-ideal answers

View Details

In this episode, it’s my great privilege to sit down with someone who has been a dream guest of mine for quite some time. Sharon Birkman is the former CEO of Birkman International and currently serves as the chairwoman of the board. She is the daughter of Dr. Roger Birkman, the creator of the Birkman Method. This revolutionary personality assessment harnesses the power of positive psychology to help people find their best career fit, and I personally have been using this method for more than a decade to advise over 3600 students and currently use it in my Launch Career Clarity course to help guide students to their best fit future college major and career.

EPISODE NOTES

As a parent, you are likely similar to me and want your child to grow up to be a successful and well-adjusted adult. But even more, you want them to be happy and fulfilled. After all, isn’t that the truest measure of success? But when it comes to choosing a college and career path for your teen, there seems to be an overwhelming number of different roads they could choose to follow. How can you know which one will best align with your child’s unique personality, abilities, and passions? This is where the Birkman Method is so incredibly useful.

The Birkman Method examines the psychology behind our behaviors and preferences to accurately predict a successful, reliable and fulfilling career path for students. There is no other personality tool that accurately also measures an individual’s needs and expectations of others and their environment. I have been using it for years as an essential starting point in my college major and career coaching 3-step framework for advising parents and students who want the best fit for college and beyond. That’s why I was so thrilled to be able to speak with Sharon about Birkman, how it works, how it has evolved over the years, and why it still stands the test of time.

Often, parents and even students will think they should follow a particular path because certain factors seem to indicate that it would be a good fit. For example, if a child has an aptitude for math, parents may assume that accounting would be a great career. Or if a child loves music, they should pursue their passion by becoming a musician. While these may seem like logical conclusions on the surface, there is actually a wealth of data and research that shows that this is often not the case. The Birkman assessment, coupled with my coaching, is the compass your family needs most as a starting point to remove overwhelm and make data-informed decisions for a flourishing future.

Links mentioned in this episodeTake the QUIZ: College Major & Career Planning

Launch College & Career Clarity Course

Follow Birkman on Social: @Birkman

Timeline[5:04] Birkman is unique because it’s able to pinpoint the motivations behind behaviors without burdening students with multiple questionnaires.

[9:19] Our needs and expectations are like the roots of a tree - they ground us into our lives and directly affect our personal health and well-being.

[12:00] Things that you enjoy doing in your personal time are just as important as your work

[15:13] The Birkman system allows students to funnel all possibilities down to something that is most likely to work for them long-term.

[17:27] Fewer choices means less overwhelm.

[23:33] Results tend to stand the test of time, with few to no variations. However, if the student didn’t take it seriously the first time, they may find that they get different results if they retake the test later on.

[26:28] Sharon shares a story about a young man who initially ignored his Birkman results, only to change paths a few years later.

View Details

High school grade and GPA inflation has become rampant since COVID, and families can be caught off guard when they realize that when it comes to GPA, pretty good is no longer good enough. Brian Eufinger explains how we got here and gives tips on how to best navigate your family’s college-bound journey in the current climate so your teen can avoid roadblocks when applying to college.

EPISODE NOTES

Brian Eufinger is my guest today. He is a test prep and tutoring provider for the Greater Atlanta area, and he has some shocking statistics to share with you as well as some helpful advice. While test scores are certainly important, even impressively high scores are not going to be enough for many schools if your student’s grades are not up to snuff. Like it or not, grades are the most significant factor in college admissions decisions.

The reality is that because of grade inflation, the GPA that got you as a parent into college decades ago may not even be considered passable for your high school student by today’s standards. There are many factors that have played into this, including no zero policies high school teachers must adhere to and opportunities for second chances brought about by COVID. What this ultimately means is that the bar is much higher than it used to be for what qualifies as a remarkable GPA.

But this doesn’t have to be all bad news. There is a way for you to get ahead of the curve. Ideally, you should be starting early with your young teen. If your student can begin earning high school credit in the eighth grade, that is a great way to get a leg up. If you’re already past that point, consider the core courses that your student is taking and how they affect unweighted GPA. And if they’re enrolled in any AP courses, discuss with them that taking the exam will add more value to the course in the long run.

Highlights* Why your teen’s GPA can’t be compared to yours * How grade inflation combined with AP coursework has compounded problems for GPAs * What grade compression is and how the bottom likely isn’t where you think it is * Advice that begins with students who are in 8th-grade

LinksLaunch College & Career Clarity Course

Launch College and Career Clarity Facebook Community

Edison Prep Website

Instagram: @edisonpreptutoring

Episode #037 ACT-SAT Test Optional Admission Data

Timeline[3:00] What was considered a decent GPA will no longer pass in the current college climate
[6:01] How no zero policies have contributed to grade inflation
[8:30] AP classes offer a huge bump to GPA, even when students don’t end up sitting for the test
[12:43] How inflation compresses the grading scale
[15:43] How a ranking percentile system to communicate to parents where grade inflation is affecting the individual school profile would be helpful
[17:46] Phenomenal test scores are often not enough to balance out a less-than-stellar GPA
[20:39] Students should always test, even for test-optional programs
[23:10] Covid learning loss has led to significantly lower average ACT & SAT scores

View Details

Nursing program admission is highly competitive which is reason enough to investigate closely before applying to college so your teen is making informed decisions. In this episode, you’ll learn about the different pathways to becoming a nurse, and what your family can be doing right now to secure a spot in this highly competitive and rigorous field of study.

EPISODE NOTES

Interest in nursing is sky-high, and as a result, institutions have become more and more selective in admitting students into their nursing programs. In this episode, Jon Rice shares the different pathways available to students who may be interested in pursuing a degree in this field.

Jon works in admissions at the University of San Francisco, and he has a wealth of information on the ins and outs of what it takes to get into their coveted direct-entry program as well as other programs throughout the US. I really appreciated his take on the direct entry approach. I’ll admit, I’ve often thought these types of programs seemed unnecessarily restrictive. But after hearing Jon’s perspective, I can see how they actually help set students up for success right from the start. If your high school teen is confident that they want to pursue nursing, and they’re already meeting the qualifications that these programs require, direct entry can be an excellent way to guarantee their success.

But a direct entry program isn’t the only path to a nursing career. Your student may choose to complete a pre-nursing program before entering an upper-division program. Or they may transfer credit from a community college or other four-year school to a nursing program. Jon gives us detailed insight into the pros and cons of several different approaches and paths to nursing.

There’s no denying that nursing studies are academically rigorous, and if your student is interested in this field, they will need to qualify in many different areas in order to get their foot in the door. However, this shouldn’t discourage you from pressing forward. If your teen is on the path to becoming a nurse, this episode will give you the tools you need to start planning well in advance, so that they will be able to choose the right path for them when the time comes.

Links mentioned in this episodeLaunch Career Clarity Course

Launch College and Career Clarity Facebook Community

List of Accredited Nursing Programs

First-Year Nursing Admission at USF

Connect with Jon on LinkedIn

Timeline[3:10] Although direct entry is required at many schools, it’s not intended to be restrictive.

[8:34] Pros and cons of pre-nursing versus direct entry nursing programs.

[12:52] Schools want to hear from prospective students directly, and not parents.

[14:02] Nursing is not a lottery, and you do need to be academically eligible in order to qualify.

[16:16] Qualifications for the ideal nursing student.

[20:55] Transferring as a pathway to nursing.

[24:30] Many schools are offering MSN programs for students who majored in something other than nursing.

[25:54] The importance of standardized testing for a nursing major.

View Details

As parents, what we want the most is for our kids to lead happy lives. However, even though our hearts are in the right place, we sometimes struggle to say the right thing to help our children in moments of stress and crisis. This is especially true when it comes to parenting and motivating college-bound teens. Navigating these moments can be challenging, but my guest today, Ned Johnson, has some advice that can help. He’s literally co-authored a book on it - twice- and he has some great insights on empathy and validation, as well as strategies to help support your teen in an effective manner.

EPISODE NOTESNed Johnson is an expert in promoting success in teens. He’s spent thousands of hours tutoring college-bound students and helping them manage their stress and anxiety, as much as their academics. He’s also co-authored two books with William Stixrud, Ph.D., on the neuroscience behind motivating your kids and setting them up for success. So it’s safe to say, he has some pretty good insights into the subject.

Ned shares with you how to really motivate your student in an effective manner. This is something I know many parents are concerned about, especially with important future planning, standardized tests, and college applications on the horizon. Ned emphasizes how important it is to approach your teen from a place of understanding and to meet them where they are. If you don’t want your advice to fall on deaf ears, you’ll definitely want to hear what he has to say about engaging with empathy and validation.

In many situations, especially when your teen is upset, your parental instincts are going to be to offer solutions and try to make everything better as quickly as possible. However, what’s going to often be most important, is offering your teen the kind of support that they need. If you don’t know what they’re looking for in an interaction, ask them if they want to vent, brainstorm a resolution, or if something else will help. For more guidance, you should also be sure to listen to this episode, because it will offer a lot of useful neuroscience-based information and helpful advice. My conversation with Ned was really illuminating, and I truly learned new methods to help me navigate with both my clients and my own now young adult kids.

Highlights ● Why is it important to help teens feel a sense of control, especially in high school and the college-bound process
● Why putting more pressure on your high school student isn’t an effective motivation strategy
● A guide to responding with empathy and validation to get to a sustainable model of motivation
● A preview for Ned’s new chapter about helping your kids on their way to happiness

Links mentioned in this episodeBook: The Self-Driven Child

Book: What Do You Say?: How to Talk with Kids to Build Motivation, Stress Tolerance, and a Happy Home

PrepMatters Website

Twitter: @NedJohnson

TikTok: @theothernedjohnson

Instagram: @theothernedjohnson

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/TheOtherNedJohnson/

Launch College & Career Clarity Course

Launch College and Career Clarity Facebook Community

Timeline[0:38] Introduction to Ned Johnson
[2:31] The importance of letting teens feel in control of their lives
[6:25] What’s really behind an apparent lack of motivation
[9:46]

The Self-Driven Child: The Science and Sense of Giving Your Kids More Control Over Their Lives
What Do You Say?: How to Talk with Kids to Build Motivation, Stress Tolerance, and a Happy Home

View Details

If your teen has ever been curious about forensics after a late night binging CSI or Law & Order, this episode is for your family. Not only has my guest, Antoinette Campbell, worked in crime labs for more than two decades, but she’s also the founder of a program in Philadelphia that is designed to help young people explore the field of forensic science. She’ll walk us through realities about the profession and how it compares to the TV portrayals, while also explaining how diverse the field is (spoiler: it’s more than just crime scenes!). Plus she gives some great advice for any student interested in preparing for a forensics career.

Episode NotesCrime dramas have helped inspire many teens to become interested in forensic science. While these shows are very entertaining, they don’t actually give a complete picture of the field. In this episode, my guest, Antoinette Campbell, from the Association of Women of Forensic Science, dissects what it really means to be a forensic scientist.

For instance, even though the professionals in this field use science to help solve crimes, many forensic scientists never even go near a crime scene or a corpse! There is a wide range of specialties in this career cluster, but because most people are only introduced to forensic science through TV shows, they may not be aware of all of the options. Before talking with Antoinette, I definitely didn’t realize how many possibilities there were within this discipline.

This episode is a must-listen if you have a child who has expressed interest in forensics. Antoinette walks us through the challenges of the field and what you should know before pursuing forensic science. Plus, she also gives some great insight into how teens can set themselves up for a successful career while they’re still in high school.

Highlights * How high school students can get STEM exposure at an early age * The differences from what you see on TV * The wide array of forensic science specialties * Advice for getting a job in the field

Links mentioned in this episodeLearn about Careers in Forensic Science

Accredited College Programs for Forensic Education

American Academy of Forensic Sciences Student Career Resources

Instagram @womeninforensics

Facebook @womeninforensic

Twitter @womeninforensic

Launch College & Career Clarity Course

Launch College and Career Clarity Facebook Community

Timeline[3:32] Introduction to the role of a forensic scientist

[4:24] Do you need a criminal justice degree for this field?

[5:50] Do all forensic scientists work with crime scenes?

[6:27] The forensic drug chemist specialty

[9:02] A day in the life of a forensic scientist

[12:51] What degree path should an aspiring forensic scientist take?

[14:06] Other specialties in forensic science

[16:07] The importance of networking

[18:20] The challenges of a field with limited job opportunities

[19:27] Ways for teens to start exploring science

[24:28] Where to learn more

View Details

Financial aid season is upon us yet again. However, if you’ve got a high school student who is entering college, don’t hit ‘submit’ on your FAFSA or CSS Profile applications just yet. You’ll want to be sure to listen to Stuart Siegal, founder of Financial Aid Now, for his advice on everything you need to know to maximize your child’s aid. He also offers some keen insight into common mistakes you as parents might make on the FAFSA or other forms, which can wind up costing you thousands in potential aid.

EPISODE NOTES

Like many other parents sending their first child to college, Stuart Siegal struggled to maximize the potential of his oldest’s financial aid applications. However, unlike many others, Stuart was also a licensed financial planner. So to prepare for his next children’s applications, he supplemented his existing knowledge with in-depth research to learn how to make the most of the available financial aid. Now, he uses his system, Financial Aid Now, to help other parents avoid the same mistakes he made the first time.

However, you don’t need to have the same financial background as Stuart to help your child qualify for generous financial aid (though it can certainly help understand the forms and jargon!). As I spoke with Stuart on this episode, it became clear to me that the most important thing is to simply carefully read the instructions, instead of making assumptions. It’s really easy to make mistakes, so do your own research, don’t guess if you’re unsure of how to answer a field, and ask an expert if you need more help!

Stuart gives a great overview of the many acronyms that relate to college financial aid. Everything from the FAFSA, CSS, and DRT are covered. This is a discussion anyone with high school and college-aged children can benefit from listening to. Even if your family is more affluent, there are still aid opportunities and you’ll want to learn how to make the most of it.

Highlights * Understand the process for getting financial aid * What’s the difference between the FAFSA and the CSS Profile for financial aid * Avoiding common mistakes while filing for financial aid * Learn financial aid acronyms * Learn about states that require FAFSA completion

Links mentioned in this episodeStudentAid.gov

Financial Aid Now Website

Episode 36: How To Know If A College Is Giving Their Best Price

List of CSS Profile Schools

FAFSA Website

Launch College & Career Clarity Course

Launch College and Career Clarity Facebook Community

Financial Aid Acronyms:

COA: Cost of Attendance

EFC: Expected Family Contribution

FAFSA: Free Application for Federal Student Aid

SAR: Student Aid Report

Timeline[5:00] Introduction to the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

[6:23] What is an Expected Family Contribution (EFC)?

[10:17] Common errors families make when completing the FAFSA

[16:12] Explanation of the CSS Profile

[20:02] The biggest mistake that parents make with their children’s financial aid applications

[21:32] What does DRT mean?

[23:34] The art of negotiation

[25:30] The TurboTax of financial aid applications

View Details

Covid brought about the rapid growth of SAT and ACT test-optional for college admissions, which has been great for some students. As we move past Covid, should your teen be taking the tests now? My friend Brooke Hanson from Supertutor Media Inc and SupertutorTV says in most cases yes! In this episode she shares the data to demonstrate that among top selective colleges they are accepting more students who took a test, even when those schools loudly claim to be test-optional. Listen to the episode for the inside scoop on why this once test optional supporter has reconsidered the value of testing. Her students will be taking the test and you may just discover your teen should too.

EPISODE NOTES

SupertutorTV's Brooke Hanson has been a supporter of test-optional for many years, but recently changed her mind based on data discovered from school admissions reports and her own belief in the positive mindset shift that comes from test prep and testing. There are some high school students for whom testing will always be difficult, but she still encourages taking the tests for a number of reasons. Many teens were off the hook during the pandemic because testing centers were closed, yet a growing number of schools are requiring tests again.

First there are also data-driven reasons for testing. Did you know even some test-blind schools, those which wouldn't normally look at anyone's results, will factor in scores if you were in the top 50% of applicants? Many colleges that say they are test-optional are providing an admission advantage to those with test scores. I had a previous student who unscientifically surveyed her peers in her Honors College and couldn’t find a single admitted student who applied without ACT or SAT scores at her test optional college.

Brooke gives a good reminder to consider your teen’s mindset. I think of testing like the clubs and activities from high school. They may be optional, but you wouldn't go to school and skip the activities. Students want to show they can actually do the work of college and graduate. Maybe testing has become a circus, but with Brooke's test prep and my college and career coaching, we want to set your student up to make informed decisions about their future so they don't go in blindly or leave things to chance.

Highlights * What made Brooke stop being in favor of test optional * ACT-SAT admission data from the top 200 schools * Who might benefit from test optional * How ACT-SAT testing and prep create a positive mindset shift

Links mentioned in this episodeSupertutor Media Inc. Youtube

Flourish Coaching on YouTube

College Data: Best and Worst Best for Test Optional

Supertutor Media on Insta/Twitter/Tiktok: @supertutortv

National Test Prep Association Member Directory

Launch College & Career Clarity Course

Launch College and Career Clarity Facebook Community

Timeline[01:52] Introducing my guest and good friend, Brooke Hanson from SupertutorTV

[02:52] Brook shares testing data from the top 200 US schools

[06:14] Do students want test-optional? Should they take the tests anyway?

[09:57] Many students are facing challenges taking the tests at all

[11:38] Families want to game the system, whether test-required or test-optional

[13:03] Why most of her students will still take the test

[18:51] Colleges are also playing games and trying many different strategies

[23:50] What changed Bro

View Details

With the high cost of college, don’t you wish you could pull back the curtain on college pricing to be sure you are getting their best offer for your teen? My guest, Mark Salisbury, created TuitionFit to gather information and put it into a “Kelly Bluebook” of college pricing. Whether your student is just starting to consider and visit colleges or they’ve already applied or even been excepted, the data Mark will provide you for free will help you know if you are getting a good deal or perhaps it’s worth asking for a bigger discount. Mark gathers student profiles and financial award letters to create a data set with amazing benefits for your student and their family. Price transparency means you can get the best price for higher education, so I hope you listen to the episode!

EPISODE NOTES

Did you know that only 1 in 10 freshmen pays the advertised sticker price at their university? That is just one reason why my guest Mark Salisbury created TuitionFit, a crowdfunded data set built from about 20 thousand college award letters to date. He's seen too many small colleges with high sticker prices fail to get enough students despite giving discounts to everyone who applied. By letting families like yours know what you’ll pay if your student gets into the schools they applied to, he hopes applying for college will become more like buying a house or car. After all, step number one in building a healthy college list should be figuring out your budget!

TuitionFit receives actual student offer letters, hides the personal details, and then sorts the data based on the student's academic profile, award letter, and the name of the college. That data set allows your family to compare prices, and Mark revealed to me how most families who appealed for more financial aid received a more competitive offer, all because they now had power and agency as a consumer. Mark is joined by various independent college counselors, college search professionals, and access organizations, forming the TuitionFit Collaborative to help more students.

Remember, you're the consumer when it comes to paying for college. You need information and price transparency to make wise and informed choices. Mark knows colleges build wiggle room into their pricing, and your family shouldn't have to pay more than you can afford or the college can afford to give you. Even if you're just thinking about colleges right now, TuitionFit can help you shop by price and build your preferred college list to get the best value for your money!

Highlights * Using college price transparency to build a college list with financial fit for your family * How you can know what other students with a similar academic profile are paying for the same college * Tips for negotiating a better offer than a college offered you at admission * Learn how the free Tuition Fit tool works & how your family can benefit

Meet Our GuestMark Salisbury is a nationally-renowned author, speaker, educator, and champion of college price transparency as a primary way to simplify and improve the college admissions process. His work has been highlighted by the New York Times, Forbes, NBC, The Chronicle of Higher Education, and NPR. In addition, he is a regular guest on a myriad of podcasts addressing college admissions and the higher education industry. Mark earned his Ph.D. from the University of Iowa and holds additional degrees from the University of Minnesota and the University of Kansas. Before launching the TuitionFit project (tuitionfit.org) to empower the public by crowdsourcing college price transparency, he was an Assistant Dean of Academic Affairs and Director of Institutional Research at Augustana College in Rock Island, Illinois, a Board member for the Higher Education Data Sharing Consortium.

Mark’s experience in higher education spans a quarter century at both large and small c

View Details

How well does your teen know themself? When seeking college major and career clarity, the most important thing to understand is what aligns with who your teen is. That's how they'll find careers perfectly suited for them. In this solo episode, I’m sharing about my Launch Career Clarity course, which is now available for a limited time and is only available for enrollment twice a year. My step-by-step framework helps your high school student with improving their extracurriculars, writing personal statements and essays, and comes with a lot of other useful information. Keep listening to learn how my course not only helps identify the best fit major and career but will set your student up to save time on future college applications and stand out from the crowd.

EPISODE NOTES

My Launch Career Clarity course is designed to help teens understand themself and what college majors and careers align with them, I provide my proprietary system to research careers and provide up-close experiences to get clear on what comes after graduation. I'm often asked what exactly students will gain from the course, and I always begin with confidence. Whether your teen is just entering high school, wondering if they need to visit every college on your list, or a recent graduate trying to find what's next, clarity can go a long way towards launching.

In addition to a deep dive into college majors and career insights, the additional benefits are numerous. What I teach positions students to also write a much better Personal Statement or College Essay for college applications, as well as the various other “Why My Major” and “Why Our College” essay questions. Schools care about more than just your extracurriculars, GPA, ACT, or SAT scores. They want to know students at a deeper level, and required and optional essays bring that personal voice into the application. Students need to know themselves deeply to express themselves and what they want to study in college. In my course, that's exactly what we do.

The Common App is used by nearly 1000 colleges and universities in the US. When your student completes module 4 of the course, we’ve already completed the required “activities” section in the exact required format. So in essence, your teen will kill two birds with one stone! They’ve already done the work inside Launch Career Clarity.

Highlights * Essays your student will write for college apps and how the Launch Career Clarity Course helps the process * How Lisa’s course makes completing the “Activities” section of college applications a simple copy and paste * Why your teen will know which colleges to visit and where to apply as a result of the course

Listen on…the Flourish Site, Spotify, Apple,

In September, I'm hosting my complimentary parent masterclass, four common mistakes to avoid when choosing a college major. This is the final time this year it will be offered. Join me to identify the four mistakes strategies to avoid them and the proven path to picking a major on time without limiting options. Go to flourishcoaching co.com to learn more, or grab your spot. I'll see you soon.

Join me in my complimentary September masterclass 4 common mistakes to avoid when choosing college major. I'll help your team get on the path to making informed choices that open doors as well as saving your family both time & money. For anyone who attends live, I have a special template that will empower your team when communicating with colleges. Visit flourishcoachingco.com to grab a spot before the opportunity is gone.

View Details

In this episode of College & Career Clarity, Natalie Schwartzkopf, a former student of mine who’s pursuing a chemical engineering bachelor’s degree from the University of Dayton, shares her success story. She shares invaluable insights and encouragement on how to overcome obstacles while inspiring others with her journey to college major-career clarity and successful college career.

EPISODE NOTES

Natalie’s transformative experience from high school student to a college junior all started when she worked with me on finding the “right fit.” As you know, I’m a huge proponent of ensuring the upcoming college curriculum and career trajectory fits who your teen is as a person. There are many important aspects to fit. Still, one of the most significant parts can be matching your teen’s natural talents and wiring to their future job.

Natalie did just that by utilizing a personality assessment that allowed her to see just how much activity and movement she needed in her future career. By understanding what types of environments and routines work best for her, Natalie has avoided going in the wrong direction and having to backtrack. What’s more, the importance of job shadows and career research truly hit home for Natalie. One fateful experience helped her find her college major and future career.

She took it to the next level with her internship and professional organization work, which sets Natalie apart from others. Natalie put in the work to develop impactful connections, and her future looks all the brighter for it.

With your teen getting ready for their next steps, I highly encourage you to heed Natalie’s insightful advice and start your teen’s major and career fit research now. Also, help them to remember, as Natalie expertly illustrates, that the work doesn’t stop once they’ve gotten into college. Career research should continue throughout the college experience to confirm that they’re heading down the right path.

The work does pay off, as you can see. Even after over seventy internship applications and waiting months for a reply, Natalie is seizing the learning opportunity and expanding her exposure through this fantastic experience.

Highlights * The steps in Natalie’s journey to college major and career clarity starting in high school * How the Birkman personality assessment identified attributes that helped her find her fit * The value of learning-living communities in college * Tips on getting internships and overcoming roadblocks * Different specialties of chemical engineers

Listen on…the Flourish Site, Spotify, Apple, Google,

In September, I'm hosting my complimentary parent masterclass, four common mistakes to avoid when choosing a college major. This is the final time this year it will be offered. Join me to identify the four mistakes strategies to avoid them and the proven path to picking a major on time without limiting options. Go to flourishcoaching co.com to learn more, or grab your spot. I'll see you soon.

Join me in my complimentary September masterclass 4 common mistakes to avoid when choosing college major. I'll help your team get on the path to making informed choices that open doors as well as saving your family both time & money. For anyone who attends live, I have a special template that will empower your team when communicating with colleges. Visit flourishcoachingco.com to grab a spot before the opportunity is gone.

View Details

College truly is an investment, often at least one of hundred thousand dollars and sometimes quite a bit more. As a parent, you’re willing to help your teen with this investment because you know college can set them on the path toward a successful, independent, happy adult life. A significant part of that happiness is finding the right college major that leads to a best-fit career path. In this week’s podcast, I sit down with Katie Bauer, the strategic partnership coordinator for Lakota Local Schools. We discuss how to cultivate experiences that will help your teen hone in on the right major for their future career.

EPISODE NOTES

Katie Bauer, the strategic partnership coordinator for Lakota local schools in the Greater Cincinnati, Ohio area, has worked with thousands of families throughout her career and recognizes the importance of guiding students into one of the four E’s- employment, enlistment, enrollment, or entrepreneurship - for after high school graduation. Through her work, Katie helps students figure out which track best fits them, what will take them in the right direction for their future, and how to graduate high school with a purpose.

A key component of determining the right path is providing students with up-close curated experiences. Through her work, Katie helps connect students with real-world experiences so they can evaluate careers for alignment to their personal wiring, values, and aptitudes.

In this episode, Bauer shares insights into college and career readiness that will help your teen even if your school distinct doesn’t have a “Real World Learning” initiative. You’ll leave this episode being able to help your teen curate their own experiences and have tips for them to stand out from other students.

Highlights * The WHY behind Lakota's real-world learning programming * The VALUE of any career exploration experience * How students can find these opportunities via the district or their own personal networks * The 4 E's and graduating with a purpose * How real world experiences can help your teen find their post-graduation plan * What will help your teen stand out in securing job shadows and internships

Meet Our GuestKatie Bauer’s journey to traditional K-12 education was a little bit different than most. After graduating from undergrad with a BA in Strategic Communications from THE Ohio State University, she began a career in higher education. After spending many years working in admissions, she worked on a grant program through the state of Ohio called ‘Tech Prep’, which aligned career technical education to industry certifications and early college credit. Along the way, Katie earned a Master's in Corporate and Strategic Communications from Ashland University. Through her work with the state and other programming, she learned about Lakota’s Local School District’s goals for the program to expand, and the rest is history! Bauer truly enjoys helping students learn more about themselves and

In September, I'm hosting my complimentary parent masterclass, four common mistakes to avoid when choosing a college major. This is the final time this year it will be offered. Join me to identify the four mistakes strategies to avoid them and the proven path to picking a major on time without limiting options. Go to flourishcoaching co.com to learn more, or grab your spot. I'll see you soon.

Join me in my complimentary September masterclass 4 common mistakes to avoid when choosing college major. I'll help your team get on the path to making informed choices that open doors as well as saving your family both time & money. For anyone who attends live, I have a special template that will empower your team when communicating with colleges. Visit flourishcoachingco.com to grab a spot before the opportunity is gone.

View Details

EPISODE SUMMARY

Before you head into what is likely to be a six figure investment into your child’s future, you’ll want to catch this episode with Dr. Abigail Sussman, professor at the University of Chicago, as she shares with us some of her knowledge about the psychology of money. She has some great advice on how to think about paying for college so you can avoid busting the budget and going into unnecessary debt or sacrificing other important financial priorities. 

EPISODE NOTES

Dr. Abigail Sussman is a professor of marketing at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. Her work is to study how economics and finances intersect with human psychology. It’s easy to think of money and budgeting as numbers on a page, and because of that you might forget to plan for the emotional aspect. This is especially helpful to keep in mind as you make plans to invest in your child’s future, a season which is so charged with emotion already.

If there’s one thing I’ve seen time and time again with college and career planning, it’s how easy it is for parents and families to blow the college budget when decision time comes. No matter how carefully you might plan, there is a strong likelihood that you will be tempted to pay more for a college your child loves. Often, parents end up paying extra for emotional reasons. They get broadsided by how strongly they are feeling about their child’s future, and they decide they just have to make it work, no matter what. 

Is that bad? Maybe not. 

What Abby will guide you through is seeing there is a way to plan for these things so you don’t get caught off guard when the moment comes. It really is possible to set a firm and realistic budget before you get into what she calls an emotional “hot state” - which could be at the time of application or when it comes to making that final decision. She’s got great advice to share that will help you save money on college because you know what to expect and have made rational decisions about what you and your teen want and how you’re going to get it.

Highlights* How correct mental accounting can help you plan paying for college * The reasons why smart families often blow the college (and other) budgets * Tips on how to think about “exceptional expenses” * Advice on how to make important decisions in a cold state instead of a hot state

Meet Our GuestAbigail Sussman, Professor of Marketing at The University of Chicago Booth School of Business, researches how individuals form judgments and make decisions, from underlying mechanisms to applications. She investigates questions at the intersection of psychology, economics, and finance, with the aim of improving financial well-being. Her central research examines psychological biases that can lead consumers to commit errors in budgeting, spending, borrowing, and investing. Her work has been featured in top academic journals including the Journal of Consumer Research, the Journal of Finance, and Psychological Science, as well as popular media outlets including National Public Radio, the New York Times, and the Wall Street Journal. Dr. Sussman is currently president-elect of the Society for Judgment and Decision Making and an associate editor at the Journal of Experimental Psychology: General. Her prior experience includes work at Goldman Sachs in its equity research division. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Brown University in cognitive science and economics, and a joint PhD from the psychology department and the School of Public and International Affairs at Princeton University.

Listen on…the Flourish Site, Spotify, Apple, 

View Details

EPISODE SUMMARY

My guest today is Grace Yi, who recently completed her freshman year at Boston College. During high school, Grace had a lot of stress and anxiety when it came to assessing her social fit on campus and where she should apply. In this episode, she shares how she overcame her doubts and offers advice and encouragement for you and your teen. This episode is the second of a four-part series on building your teen’s best-fit college list.

EPISODE NOTES

When looking for a college that will be a good fit, there are certain things to keep in mind that will be non-negotiable. Is it a good fit academically? Financially? How does it fit your teen’s chosen career path? But what about social needs? As we work through this series on building your teen’s unique college list, we’re going to explore how to find a social fit both before and after college life begins.

I loved getting Grace’s perspective on what college social life can be like. So often, our high schoolers get overwhelmed with all the things they need to be doing in order to be the right fit for their school. Often, classes and extracurriculars are chosen based on how they will fit into what schools are looking for. But Grace reminds us that a school should fit you as well. Social life should be fun, and it’s okay to experiment with different clubs and activities.

I’ve known Grace and her family since she was in high school, and her journey hasn’t always been an easy one. I’m so excited to be able to catch up with her now that she is on the other side, with a full year of college already behind her. We talk about some of the things she thought would be important to her that now are not such a big deal and some things she never expected.

So as you’re making your college list, don’t forget about social fit. We can get so caught up in academic and financial standards that it can be easy to overlook what a college can offer socially. Take some time to find out about the social opportunities that are available on campus, whether it be sports, clubs, Greek life (or lack of it), student groups, proximity to town or a city, etc.

I hope you enjoy this second installment in our series on creating your college list.

Highlights * How your teen can overcome a fixed, rigid mindset * Social considerations for your college list * The benefits of a Gap Year * What your teen can do once on campus to find their fit

Meet Our GuestGrace Yi is a Cincinnati native and a graduate of Saint Ursula Academy. After embracing a gap year, she’s found her home away from home at Boston College and living her best life.

Listen on…the Flourish Site, Spotify, Apple, Google, Amazon Music, Stitcher, or your favorite platform.

“College & Career Clarity with Lisa is so helpful!” ← Is that you? If so, please consider rating and reviewing my show so I can resource more families and eliminate overwhelm. Thank you!!

Links mentioned in this episodeEpisode: The Many Advantages of a Gap Year

Boston College

Saint Ursula Academy Cincinnati

Launch College &

View Details

EPISODE SUMMARY

The Four Pillars of Building a College List kicks off with finding a school with a good academic fit. In this episode, I sat down with Cyndy McDonald, a highly connected independent college counselor, to discuss how students can ensure they find the right fit before applying to college. Cyndy talked about ensuring a student gets admitted because, without that, the rest of the pillars of a college list don’t hold much weight.

When you’re a college-bound family, taking the time to research and build your high school student’s college list is a crucial part of getting admitted in the end. But what does a “good academic fit” mean? In this episode of the College & Career Clarity podcast, we find out.

EPISODE NOTES

Setting your teen up for success in college and putting together their list of colleges where they’ll apply to can be broken down into four pillars- Academic Fit, Social Fit, Financial Fit, and College Major & Career Fit. Each of these aspects is imperative to a successful college experience. Today, I sat down with Cyndy to discuss the first one on our list- academic fit.

Academic fit is all about how your student will mesh with the school when they’re on campus. Every student has different needs, so understanding your teen’s and how their ideal school admits students will help your family pick out the perfect school from the over 3,000 4-year colleges and universities.

But it’s about more than just how many students are in a class or what majors are available. There are several integral aspects of academic fit that you need to consider, both from your perspective and the perspective of the college you’re applying to. Not only do you need to find a school you want to attend, but you also need to find a school that wants you there.

Understanding your teen’s chances of “getting in” can be confusing. That’s why this episode of College & Career Clarity takes the time to really dive deep into what academic fit means and how you can apply it to decisions as your family looks at schools.

Click here for more information about building your perfect college list for any family. If you’d like to learn more about how to do great college visits, check out episode #4, Getting the Scoop on College Visits and #23, College Visit Tips fom the College Spy . And if you’d like more information about a particular school, including their admission rates, visit Peterson’s and College Board.

Keep an eye out for the next episode in the series all about Social Fit, and hear how one of my past students got out of overwhelm and her advice to your teen.

Highlights * What student-first centered college selection is * How to navigate where it’s getting harder and harder to be admitted to selective schools * How identifying “target” colleges can benefit the family * Resources for finding academic data * The top 2 academic factors for getting admitted

Meet Our GuestCyndy McDonald, CEP, is a recognized leader in both college counseling and in business. She has over thirty years of experience as a college advisor. Cyndy teaches in the UCLA online college counseling certificate program. She has consulted with college planning practices at all stages of their development- from starting out to expanding services. Cyndy serves as an active member of several professional organizations: NCAG, AICEP, NACAC, IECA, WACAC and HECA.

Listen on…the Flourish Site,

View Details

Today, we’re kicking off our August series by speaking with Kirsten Parker about how to create a solid framework for decision-making so you and your teen can move forward with confidence during the often stressful college-bound journey.

EPISODE NOTES

I’ve never done a series on the podcast before, and I’m excited my very first is focused on how to build a college list so that you know where your family should visit and where your student ultimately apply. But before you even begin this process, it’s important to take stock of your core values so your family can be intentional about your decisions going forward. That’s why I’ve invited Kirsten Parker to share her nuggets of wisdom with us on how to coach yourself and your teen through these tough and important choices.

Kirsten works as a decision coach, and while she generally works with adults, I think she has a lot to offer to you as a parent and to your teen or young adult as you all face a mountain of choices during the pivotal season of college and career selection. We talk about how to define your core values, both as an individual and as a family working together as a team. Kirsten reminds us to realize there will be bumps in the road, that we should plan for them, expect them, and not see them as failures. And she gives us a very timely reminder, especially for us overachieving types, that sometimes we need to validate how our teens are feeling and let them sit with it, rather than rushing in and trying to fix their problems right away.

I hope you enjoy listening to our conversation as much as I did having it, and I also hope you stick with us throughout the month of August as we continue our series on identifying what matters most so you can successfully build a college list.

Highlights * How your family can get clear on values before making decisions * What to do when things go wrong in the decision making process * Validation tools you can use * How to leverage intention in making decisions you can trust

Meet Our GuestKirsten helps Overthinkers trust their choices. She spent years moving her life & career forward, Yale Masters Degree in tow, feeling way more angst than certainty! Despite "success and smarts," she second-guessed big & small decisions, over-valued others' opinions & catastrophized about what could go wrong, non-stop. Coaching allowed her to finally feel calm, clear & confident – so she could feel present in her life and sure she was making the right choices – and that's exactly what she helps clients do now.

Listen on…the Flourish Site, Spotify, Apple, Google, Amazon Music, Stitcher, or your favorite platform.

“College & Career Clarity with Lisa is so helpful!” ← Is that you? If so, please consider rating and reviewing my show so I can resource more families and eliminate overwhelm. Thank you!!

Links mentioned in this episodeCollege List Building Challenge

Launch College & Career Clarity Course

Launch College and Career Clarity Facebook Community

Free Overthinker's Checklist: The 6 Essentials to Simplify Decisions & Get Out of Overwhel

View Details

Episode SummaryTime is your and your teen’s most valuable asset. Eventually, your teen will share on college applications how they spend their time outside of the classroom. And how that time is invested impacts if they get admitted. This solo episode is all about extracurriculars that eventually land in the Activities section of their Common Application going to the colleges. Which ones are the “good” ones? Are there any bad ones? What if you don’t have many? I hope that you can walk away from this episode with a better understanding of what gives an extracurricular activity more value for your teen and then pursue those.  

Episode NotesWe all know that extracurricular activities are important for your student’s high school experience. They help make your teen’s college application unique and interesting as well as showcase who they are, but what exactly are colleges looking for? Should your teen be signing up for anything and everything they can before senior year? What if they don’t have enough going on to fill in all spots on the application? What if they have more than ten?

In this episode, I’ll share which activities tend to have a higher value, and which you may be able to let fall by the wayside. Sometimes, quality really is better than quantity, and I am going to share with you some of the filters you can use to determine which activities will give the most bang for your buck in developing your teen and on that college app.

I will guide you into how to access and filter all the different opportunities vying for your student’s time and I have a special test I run activities through that will help inform how high the value is. It’s a super simple strategy. You’ll leave this episode inspired to think outside the box and get creative instead of simply choosing the cookie-cutter options. 

Maybe it’s time to rethink some current activities, or even develop some new ones that don’t exist yet. I believe that we should actively encourage our teens to be purposeful about their pursuits, and seek out activities that promote longevity and leadership. I hope that after you listen to this episode, you will be inspired to have family conversations to consider the coming school year with a sense of creativity and courage.

Highlights* What’s the right number of extracurricular activities for a student to have * How students showcase extracurriculars when applying to college * Considerations for teens to filter how they invest their time * Lisa’s “test” for a high-value extracurricular activity

Timeline[2:25] Put a broader lens on extracurriculars. How do you spend your time outside the classroom?

[4:35] What is a high-value extracurricular?

[5:22] Be purposeful about your pursuits, and look for longevity and leadership. Stick with it.

[8:33] Don’t stick with something if it’s not for you.

[9:50] Activities that are difficult to describe can often be higher-value extracurriculars.

[10:50] Outcomes of extracurriculars

[11:40] Many colleges expect students to pick a major before applying. Extracurriculars can help students make informed decisions.

[16:48] Challenge for the week: have an intentional conversation about how your student is spending his or her time outside the classroom.

View Details

EPISODE SUMMARY

Do you know the difference between engineering science and engineering technology? Are you aware of the variety of majors and careers available in these fields? What kind of GPA is required to qualify for these often competitive programs? Dr. Matt Franchetti joins the podcast to answer these questions for us and more, as he shares his insight and experience as Associate Dean of the Engineering College at the University of Toledo.

EPISODE NOTES

If you have a teen who loves math and has an aptitude for it, chances are they may be considering engineering as a possible major. And while students may be familiar with this field, I’ve found most parents often don’t know much about a similar field, engineering TECHNOLOGY which is different than engineering (science). That’s why I invited Dr. Franchetti to help us understand some of the ins and outs of engineering education and careers so that your teen can be better equipped to make good decisions about their future.

Dr. Franchetti serves as the Associate Dean of the Engineering College at the University of Toledo, where they take a more open, collaborative approach to admission into the program. We spend quite a bit of time discussing the differences between this model as well as the more competitive approach taken by many colleges. The traditional selective model can work well for students with a high school GPA and ACT or SAT score that fits stringent criteria, who know exactly what they want and how to get there. But this model isn’t ideal for students who may be undecided as to which field of engineering or engineering technology they want to pursue, or whose GPA and test scores don’t meet the higher standards standards.

Often, colleges will not tell you which model they follow if you ask them outright, so it’s important to ask the right questions when looking into admissions to engineering or engineering technology programs. Matt has some great tips on what to look for and which questions to ask. I believe that there is a place for every student, it’s just a matter of finding that program that will be the right fit for yours, if engineering is aligned with their wiring.

I always encourage students with an interest in STEM to consider engineering & engineering technology as a possible fields, so I’ve included some resources below to dive into with more information on available programs and careers, as well as some great engineering colleges to visit, either online or in person.

Highlights * The differences between studying engineering and engineering technology * Questions to ask of engineering college programs to find your fit * How selective, non-selective, and pre-engineering programs work * Careers in both engineering and engineering technology * Tips for students to be successful in an engineering program

Meet Our GuestDr. Franchetti is a Professor and the Associate Dean of Undergraduate Studies for the College of Engineering. He is also the Principal Investigator of the Business Waste Reduction Assistance Program, a joint effort with the Lucas County Solid Waste Management District.

Dr. Franchetti received his Ph.D. in 2003 and MBA in 2000 from The University of Toledo. He has worked as an industrial engineer and technical manager for the U.S. Postal Service in Washington DC, Pittsburgh, PA, and Columbus, OH. He is Certified Six-Sigma Black Belt from the American Society of Quality (ASQ) and has consulting and research experience with over 25 companies across the country.

Listen on…the Flourish Site, Spotify, Apple,

View Details

Episode Summary
In this episode, I’m doing something a little different and going solo! We need to be intentional when it comes to planning for the future with our college-bound kiddos. I’ll be sharing lots of ideas and resources for how to get it all done, even and especially when life gets overwhelming. By the end of this episode, you’ll be ready to sit down as a family and not just identify what needs to be accomplished in the next year, but you’ll have a plan for when so you can stay on track to beat deadlines.

Episode Notes
With Flourish and Launch, one of my main objectives is to give parents a sense of clarity as to where they’re headed with their kids, and to provide positive momentum to keep going all the way through each school year. One of the best ways to make that happen is to approach each year with a clear sense of intention.

In this episode, I will give you a step-by-step framework for planning your college-bound calendar for the next school year and beyond. Last year is behind us, and summer is well under way. Maybe you’ve started this summer still reeling from a busy and overwhelming school year. But don’t worry, it is possible to take a factual approach to planning, and knock out your to-do list bit by bit.

My hope is that you will finish out this episode feeling positive and motivated for the year ahead. I’ll also be providing some links and resources for you to use along the way. And if you stay tuned until the end of the episode, you’ll hear about a free online event that will be available later this month, July 2022 (in case you’re listening at a later date!). .

Highlights * Get a Step-by-Step framework for creating your college bound calendar * How to leverage the academic calendar at your high school * What’s magical about May 1st when it comes to college planning * How to not overwhelm your teen with college planning * An opportunity to join Lisa for a free coaching session

Listen on…the Flourish Site, Spotify, Apple, Google, Amazon Music, Stitcher, or your favorite platform.

“College & Career Clarity with Lisa is so helpful!” ← Is that you? If so, please consider rating and reviewing my show so I can resource more families and eliminate overwhelm. Thank you!!

Links mentioned in this episode
Free Zoom Workshop, Plan Your College Cound Calendar for 2022-23

Launch College & Career Clarity Course

Launch College and Career Clarity Facebook Community

College Planning Timeline

2023 AP Exam Dates

Timeline
[3:29] Hopefully by now you have a copy of the College Planning Timeline printed out and posted. If not, grab a copy of it here.

[4:41] How to begin building a Family College-Bound Calendar. Start by noting all the important dates (days off, testing dates, college visits, family events, etc.)

[8:58] How to thi

View Details

Episode SummaryIn this episode, I’m talking with Sophia Chabris about an extracurricular project she created while still a sophomore at Indian Hill High School in Cincinnati, Ohio. Now a graduate, she is headed to Boston University in the fall with a clearer vision of who she is and where she’s headed. I hope that when you hear her story, you and your teen will be inspired to create something that can help them build the skills they need to succeed, and learn more about themselves in the process.

Episode NotesSophia Chabris was a sophomore in high school when the coronavirus pandemic changed the way we go to school. As a self-described extrovert, she began to feel the pain of social isolation, not being able to hang out with friends or even to go to school in the same way she was used to. As the 2019-20 school year came to an end, she knew there would be a number of students who wouldn’t return to in-person school in the fall, and she knew there would be other kids like herself that wanted more connection. So over the summer, she came up with a way to do something about it. That’s when Corona Care Callers was born.

As the beginning of the next school year drew near, Sophia contacted her principal to pitch her program idea. We will hear her explain how helpful it was for her to have all her materials and files put together into a toolkit that was sharable and ready to go. As a former high school educator myself, I know how hard it can be for teachers and principals to implement new programs; they’re just so busy! But I believe Sophia’s thoughtful prepwork and thorough toolkit was instrumental in getting her ideas pushed through and running so quickly.

Extracurriculars are a wonderful way for our kids to learn the soft skills that they are going to need in their lives. These are the skills that are not generally taught in school or in the workplace. Sophia describes her own process of learning how to cultivate a good work ethic and communication skills. Her project required her to reach out to parents and teachers via email and text, and even tested her public speaking skills as her story went to the press!

I am so proud of Sophia, what she’s learned and accomplished, and I can’t wait to see where she is going in the future. I hope that you will be inspired by her story as well, and that you and your student will find a similar way to make their vision a reality, and to learn the skills that they can take with them throughout their lives.

Highlights * Steps to creating a high value extra curricular * Skills that grow while being entrepreneurial * Ideas for a toolkit to be successful with creating a program * How to get adults onboard with the student idea

Meet Our GuestSophia Chabris, class of 2022 at Indian Hill High School in Cincinnati, created Corona Care Callers, an organization at her high school where tenth through twelfth graders served as a personal connection for younger students isolated to online school during Covid.

In her words….

During the Stay-at-Home order in March, I was unable to see my friends and felt socially isolated. Most of my friends and family know me as a bubbly, social person but during the order I didn’t feel like myself. I realized that I was missing face to face conversations and that I couldn’t possibly be the only one!! I created this for our virtual Braves students, so that they might still feel connected with our school community!

Listen on…the Flourish Site, Spotify, Apple,

View Details

Episode SummaryIn this episode, Mandy Fontaine, former collegiate athlete and licensed school counselor, talks about the importance of a growth mindset and how understanding what a developing brain can and can’t do can significantly improve your teen’s success. She uses her training and experience to coach and educate teens about personal development and fostering the right mindset.

Episode NotesEmbracing a growth mindset needs to start young. As I speak with Mandy about her work with 16-25-year-olds, she elaborates on just how much development a young brain is still going through. She gives her tips and tricks to understanding teens’ brains from a neuroscience perspective and how self-awareness can lead to real growth and success.

Mandy showcases how working with teens to get them ready for college and life is about so much more than test prep and ensuring they know how to do laundry (though that is important). Encouraging them to grow their emotional intelligence and making room for failure are crucial aspects of teaching your teen “how to adult.”

I loved speaking with Mandy, and she provided some incredible resources for parents and coaches to learn more about a growth mindset. Because as it turns out, we need to embrace that mentality as well and are more than capable of adopting new parenting techniques.

It turns out you can teach an old dog new tricks. But, it’s best to start early, and that is Mandy’s specialty.

Highlights * Characteristics of 12 to 25 year old developing brains * How to instill a growth mindset in your child * Tips for correctly offering praise that doesn’t undermine a growth mindset * The power of using the word yet and how to do so

Meet Our GuestAs a former collegiate athlete, licensed professional school counselor, high school athletics coach, and now life & personal development coach, Mandy Fontaine is using her 20+ years of experience to empower and build confident young women through her coaching business, Girl Thriving.Over the years, Mandy found that students typically do not want to share what they are going through with their parents, may not want to talk about life’s challenges in a school setting (their social space) with their school counselor, and often think that if they see a counselor outside of school that “something is wrong with them.”To her, COACHING is a way to reach more teens and young adults in a brave space that allows them to build self-awareness, empowerment & work through life’s obstacles in a healthy way that strengthens their mental health and overall personal development.Mandy is an educator at heart, so she uses coaching techniques that are rooted in neuroscience and helps teens create new habits that empower them to “level-up” in all areas of their life; physically, mentally, emotionally & spiritually.She believes that ALL teens & young adults need a coach in their lives!

Listen on…the Flourish Site, Spotify, Apple,

I'm running a contest for the month of June! One lucky winner will receive a copy of How to College: What to Know before you go (and when you’re there). Dr. Andrea Malkin Brenner is the co-author and my guest on episode 20. The link to enter is in the show notes of episode 20. Enter to win as many times as you like in the month of June & will send our winner a signed copy of How to College in July.

Don’t forget to enter to win a signed copy of How to College before July 1 when I notify our lucky winner. The link to enter is in the show notes of episode 20, How to College with Dr. Andrea Brenner.

View Details

EPISODE SUMMARY

Today, Michelle McInerney, “The College Spy,” and an independent educational consultant, talks about making the most of your prospective college student’s campus visit. She’s visits over 40 campuses each year doing in-depth reconnaissance so that she can pass on that knowledge and help students before, during, and after their college tour.

EPISODE NOTES

There are so many options when it comes to colleges. Planning out your tours and trips when your student is making a decision will help you put each one in perspective and collect valuable information. Michelle is an expert when it comes to learning critical information about a school in just one college visit. With her years of experience and insight, her advice will provide you with the framework for enjoying a successful trip to your teen’s perspective universities.

There are four key “fits” you’ll want to ensure feel right when you and your teen are checking out prospective campuses. These tips from the College Spy will help you better understand each university you’re visiting, including its strengths, weaknesses, and environment. What’s more, Michelle’s insider tips can help you make the most of your day on campus, going beyond the guided tour.

Your teen isn’t just going to college for education. They’ll also be making friends, expanding their socio-political horizons, and living every day there. Ensuring they’ll be comfortable for the long haul is crucial to their success.

If you or someone you know has a teen soon entering college, be sure to listen to today’s episode that’ll walk you through all the steps to having a great campus visit.

While summer may not be the perfect time to visit a campus, there is much you can do to prepare for upcoming trips. Set you and your teen up for success by getting a jump on your college planning. After all, one of Michelle’s biggest tips is not to wait too long because it can put you and your teen under a lot of stress.

Check out more at thecollegespy.com. You can also find her on Twitter and through her Facebook page and groups and Instagram, which are all @thecollegespy.

TIMELINE:

[3:57] Our “College Spy” delivers her first piece of crucial advice for prospective students and families.

[6:28] How far in advance do students need to plan their trips?

[7:20] Summer visits can be a mixed bag. A populated campus can give you a better view of what life is like during the school year.

[8:44] Michelle shares the other crucial must-haves of a college visit beyond scheduling a guided tour.

[10:30] Work with our admissions counselor to see what services or experiences the colleges offer and what they can accommodate.

[12:40] What is the right age to start looking at prospective campuses? What can you do for students of certain ages to make the trip successful and memorable?

[15:20] Meeting your student where they are, and then see what else you can do with it.

[16:20] Starting earlier and being prepared can help prospective students avoid stress and enjoy smoother transitions.

[17:15] research is your friend. One small upside to the pandemic is more virtual resources to capitalize on, including campus and student-produced content.

[19:53] Support your studen

I'm running a contest for the month of June! One lucky winner will receive a copy of How to College: What to Know before you go (and when you’re there). Dr. Andrea Malkin Brenner is the co-author and my guest on episode 20. The link to enter is in the show notes of episode 20. Enter to win as many times as you like in the month of June & will send our winner a signed copy of How to College in July.

Don’t forget to enter to win a signed copy of How to College before July 1 when I notify our lucky winner. The link to enter is in the show notes of episode 20, How to College with Dr. Andrea Brenner.

View Details

We know that finding the academic and financial fit for colleges to go along with your career goals is challenging enough. And for student athletes who are considering playing in college, there’s another layer of complexity. If your teen is a student athlete, you don’t want to miss my conversation with Katie Anderson who is a private college counselor specializing in student athletes. She shares the unique process athletes need to follow and what questions your family will want to consider while you are on the college-bound journey.

Katie reveals a proven timeline guided by the NCAA and provides some important resources that might help your teen eliminate schools off of their list of prospects. You’ll learn the different athletic divisions of colleges and be confident with the rules around communication with coaches at the college level.

Her tips and tricks to keep up with school work around a busy sports schedule and how to handle co-ops, and test optional schools is pure gold! Katie will explain the different paths available to students if they aren’t able to go to a four-year college. Bottom-line: ask lots of questions…and Katie will give you the questions to ask in this episode!

Highlights* Learn when student athletes should begin the process (and what’s too early & late) * What to expect of different athlete experiences for NCAA Divisions 1, 2, and 3 as well as the NAIA * The importance of ACT & SAT scores * How to know if your teen’s intended major is doable with athletics * Advice on athletic scholarships & for full pay students

Listen on…the Flourish Site, Spotify, Apple, Google, Amazon Music, Stitcher, or your favorite platform.

“College & Career Clarity with Lisa is so helpful!” ← Is that you? If so, please consider rating and reviewing my show so I can resource more families and eliminate overwhelm. Thank you!!

Meet Our GuestKatie Andersen is a private college counselor in Dana Point, CA. She specializes in working with student-athletes to help them identify schools that are the best fit for both the 'student' and the 'athlete' as well as guiding them through the college athletic recruiting and application process. Her unique perspective is based on personal experience as a Division 1 soccer player at Duke University, alumni interviewer, college counselor, and experience working for 15 years in the software and web design industries in the United States and Europe. She received her College Counseling Certificate with distinction from UCLA Extension and is a member of IECA and HECA.

Links mentioned in this episodeNCAA Guide for the College Bound Student Athlete

College Sports

I'm running a contest for the month of June! One lucky winner will receive a copy of How to College: What to Know before you go (and when you’re there). Dr. Andrea Malkin Brenner is the co-author and my guest on episode 20. The link to enter is in the show notes of episode 20. Enter to win as many times as you like in the month of June & will send our winner a signed copy of How to College in July.

Don’t forget to enter to win a signed copy of How to College before July 1 when I notify our lucky winner. The link to enter is in the show notes of episode 20, How to College with Dr. Andrea Brenner.

View Details

Have you ever wondered why so many students who major in psychology and intend to work in the field land elsewhere in their career? I noticed this trend when I was recently interviewing candidates to work at my company and the job had nothing to do with psychology!

Dr. Robin Arthur joined me on the podcast to not only explore and answer this question but she also shares the challenges and rewards of a career in Psychology. She reveals the necessary skills and many opportunities in the field depending on a student's wiring, self awareness, and goals.

You’ll learn the pathway to being a doctor of psychology as well as alternate pathways for therapists.

Robin is very passionate about helping teens and young adults navigate mental health challenges that are always present, but more prevalent and complicated in the wake of Covid. Her current work, in addition to being a practicing psychologist, is easily accessible tools she shares so you’ll be equipped to help your teen.

Highlights * The wide variety of careers for those with a PhD or PsyD in Psychology * The often underestimated educational and extracurricular path to earn this doctoral level degree * Other career paths that credential someone for work as a therapist * Suggested extracurriculars for high school and college students interested in the field of psychology * How Dr. Arthur is helping families with adolescencents manage Covid related stresses

Listen on…the Flourish Site, Spotify, Apple, Google, Amazon Music, Stitcher, or your favorite platform.

“College & Career Clarity with Lisa is so helpful!” ← Is that you? If so, please consider rating and reviewing my show so I can resource more families and eliminate overwhelm. Thank you!!

Meet Our Guest
Dr. Robin Arthur is CEO of Transform Consulting LLC. Dr. Arthur has several decades of experience providing transformative solutions for individuals and organizations in business and healthcare nationally and internationally. Dr. Arthur worked in a pediatric practice for nine years prior to becoming a psychologist. Dr. Arthur was the Chief of Psychology at The Lindner Center of HOPE, a premier mental health hospital and was on faculty at The University of Cincinnati College of Medicine for 12 years.Her 25+ years of vast experience in working with children and families has resulted in significantly improved mental health and family relationships. She practices from a holistic and strength-based model rather than a disease model to support optimal outcomes. Dr. Arthur realizes that our children have increasing stress and anxiety and the need for parent coaching is skyrocketing. The number of providers available is a deterrent for parents. Because of this need, Dr. Arthur developed an online Masterclass, Post Pandem

I'm running a contest for the month of June! One lucky winner will receive a copy of How to College: What to Know before you go (and when you’re there). Dr. Andrea Malkin Brenner is the co-author and my guest on episode 20. The link to enter is in the show notes of episode 20. Enter to win as many times as you like in the month of June & will send our winner a signed copy of How to College in July.

Don’t forget to enter to win a signed copy of How to College before July 1 when I notify our lucky winner. The link to enter is in the show notes of episode 20, How to College with Dr. Andrea Brenner.

View Details

Are you worried about the day you drop your teen at college and leave them to “adult” on campus without you?

Dr. Andrea Malkin Brenner, sociologist and co-author of “How To College”, joins Lisa to share insights gained from her decades of work with college students at American University. By starting early while still in high school, her suggestions will help get both you and your student be ready for this major life transition.

Dr. Malkin Brenner directs your family to the many resources available to your child on campus and you’ll learn about first year experience (FYE) programs available at most universities to support your student. American University has a unique program different from other FYE’s and she’ll tell you why she create it to be different. By understanding this, you’ll know to research those outlets during campus visits and before high school graduation.

Learn why Andrea cautions against assuming a high IQ means your teen can manage campus life and what you can do to set them up for success. Using her “Talking College” card deck provides a way to put your student in the driver’s seat and put you at ease as they start college.

If you are listening to this episode in the first month it was published, you can enter to win a copy of Andrea’s co-authored book, “How to College”.

Highlights * Learn about the career field of sociology * What First Year Experience programs are and how American University’s FYE is different * Expert advice on what to do before your teen goes to college * What freshman can do to have a successful first year * The parent experience of sending your child off and how to support them * Enter to win a copy of Andrea’s co-authored book, How to College

Meet Our GuestDr. Andrea Malkin Brenner is a college transition educator and author who speaks frequently with high school students and parents on the challenges related to college transitions. She draws on her 25 years of experience as a sociology professor and college administrator, as the creator and director of American University’s first-year experience program, and as the faculty director of the college’s University College program. Andrea is the creator of the Talking College™ Card Deck, the original card deck of discussion prompts for college-bound students and their parents, and co-author of How to College: What to Know Before You Go (and When You’re There),a leading guide for college-bound high school students.

Listen on…the Flourish Site, Spotify, Apple, Google, Amazon Music,

I'm running a contest for the month of June! One lucky winner will receive a copy of How to College: What to Know before you go (and when you’re there). Dr. Andrea Malkin Brenner is the co-author and my guest on episode 20. The link to enter is in the show notes of episode 20. Enter to win as many times as you like in the month of June & will send our winner a signed copy of How to College in July.

Don’t forget to enter to win a signed copy of How to College before July 1 when I notify our lucky winner. The link to enter is in the show notes of episode 20, How to College with Dr. Andrea Brenner.

View Details

If you have a soon to be high school senior, it’s college essay time of year! Betsy Cadel joins Lisa to reveal the best way to approach writing college admission essays without the overwhelm. You’ll have her proven timeline to set you up for success and Betsy’s going to tell us what admissions officers are looking for in the essays your student writes for college applications.

You’ll learn the what essays your teen can expect to write for the colleges, and a successful way to to dive into researching and understanding what each college values.

By following Betsy’s 4 C’s framework, your student will be set up for success and to help them stand out from the thousands of other applicants in an ever increasingly competitive college admission process.

Highlights * The prompts for required college essays * The difference between resume building and character building * Get a timeline for completing essays for applications * The 4 C’s Betsy recommends having in your essays * Tips for writing a great personal statement main essay

Meet Our GuestBetsy Cadel is a college essay specialist helping high school juniors and seniors write compelling essays that pop off the page and get noticed by admissions officers.

Her supportive, fun and introspective approach is designed to increase students' chances of getting into their best-fit school while reducing stress, family tension, and feeling overwhelmed.

As a former advertising copywriter and author, she brings that marketing savvy to her role as an essay coach, positioning students so that they stand out from thousands of other applicants.

And as a parent who went through the application experience with her own son not that long ago she emphasizes mental health and keeping the process in perspective.

Listen on…the Flourish Site, Spotify, Apple, Google, Amazon Music, Stitcher, or your favorite platform.

“College & Career Clarity with Lisa is so helpful!” ← Is that you? If so, please consider rating and reviewing my show so I can resource more families and eliminate overwhelm. Thank you!!

Links mentioned in this episode

College Essay Helpers Site

Follow Betsy on Instagram, Facebook, and Tiktok

Launch College & Career Clarity Course

Launch College and Career Clarity Facebook Community

I'm running a contest for the month of June! One lucky winner will receive a copy of How to College: What to Know before you go (and when you’re there). Dr. Andrea Malkin Brenner is the co-author and my guest on episode 20. The link to enter is in the show notes of episode 20. Enter to win as many times as you like in the month of June & will send our winner a signed copy of How to College in July.

Don’t forget to enter to win a signed copy of How to College before July 1 when I notify our lucky winner. The link to enter is in the show notes of episode 20, How to College with Dr. Andrea Brenner.

View Details

Freshman year for free….what’s the catch? You’ll be delighted to find there’s no catch! Pulitzer Prize winner David Vise shares how Modern States Education Alliance’s free program has saved college students over 75 million dollars in tuition.

Modern States quality courses are taught by college professors and coupled with CLEP exams. David’s asserts this actually an easier path to college credit while in high school than AP courses and exams. With most high schools charging for AP courses and exams, it’s also less expensive! Your student can start as early as 9th grade while also reinforcing their high school course curriculum. As Lisa points out, this is like built-in free tutoring for students!

While the intent of Modern States is to increase access and affordability of higher education, it also provides your student with the opportunity to curate their experiences around their schedule and interests.

Highlights * Different paths to college credit during high school * What CLEP exams are and how they compare to AP exams * How some students can get freshman year for free * How Modern States courses help build a resume, demonstrate intellectual curiosity, and lead to college major-career clarity

Meet Our Guest

David Vise is the executive director of Modern States Education Alliance, a philanthropy dedicated to making college more accessible and affordable for all.

A Pulitzer Prize-winner, Vise spent more than 20 years as a reporter at The Washington Post. He is the author of four books, including The Google Story, a national bestseller published in more than two dozen languages.

Vise received his MBA from The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he is included on a list of 125 most influential alumni. He serves as a senior advisor at New Mountain Capital.

Listen on…the Flourish Site, Spotify, Apple, Google, Amazon Music, Stitcher, or your favorite platform.

Links mentioned in this episodeLaunch College & Career Clarity Course

Launch College and Career Clarity Facebook Community

Modern States Facebook

Modern States Twitter

Modern States Instagram

Modern States LinkedIn

Modern States Website

I'm running a contest for the month of June! One lucky winner will receive a copy of How to College: What to Know before you go (and when you’re there). Dr. Andrea Malkin Brenner is the co-author and my guest on episode 20. The link to enter is in the show notes of episode 20. Enter to win as many times as you like in the month of June & will send our winner a signed copy of How to College in July.

Don’t forget to enter to win a signed copy of How to College before July 1 when I notify our lucky winner. The link to enter is in the show notes of episode 20, How to College with Dr. Andrea Brenner.

View Details

In this episode, Lisa Marker-Robbins shares helpful ideas for your teen to keep the momentum of their college-bound journey going over the summer while still enjoying some lazy days and much-needed downtime.

This episode takes a year-by-year journey. If your student is an upperclassman, don’t fast forward just in case you missed a critical deadline in the past and need to use summer to catch-up. And you won’t want to hit “pause” once your student’s year is covered as knowing what is coming down the road is crucial to your successful planning for your family.

From ACT/SAT planning and testing to unearthing a summer reading list and learning how a summer job can benefit your child beyond just the paycheck, as well as how to start planning those future visits - it’s all here! When following Lisa’s proven framework outlined in this podcast and on her free College Planning Timeline PDF, you’ll prevent parent nagging and can thank her later!

Be application and graduation ready by listening in for tips on the journey ahead.

Highlights* A goal-setting framework that works for your student * Lisa’s College Planning Timeline * Actionable to-do list for all grades * Summer reading advice * Your family’s college budget * Common Application rollover

Listen on…the Flourish Site, Spotify, Apple, Google, Amazon Music, Stitcher, or your favorite platform.

“College & Career Clarity with Lisa is so helpful!” ← Is that you? If so, please consider rating and reviewing my show so I can resource more families and eliminate overwhelm. Thank you!!

Links mentioned in this episode:College Planning Timeline PDF

Student Goal Setting Framework

Summer Reading Suggestions from Goodreads

Kahn Academy

Occupational Outlook Handbook

Launch College & Career Clarity Course

Common App

Launch College and Career Clarity Facebook Community

If you have more questions than answers on college planning and you don't want your student to miss opportunities, using a proven timeline for planning is important. That's why I created my college planning timeline PDF for college-bound families. To get your copy, go to flourishcoachingco.com and head to the Resources page.

Don't forget to get your answers on what to do when in college planning head on over to my website, flourishcoachingco.com. Then head to the Resources page.

View Details

If your teen likes Legos, sketching, or Minecraft, they might consider a career in architecture. In this episode, friends and hosts of the “Open Plan” podcast, Emily Khalid Zand and Maria Pastorelli, are speaking about their paths which crossed while they were pursuing their Master’s of Architecture from Georgia Tech.

They’ll share about the high school experiences that helped them find alignment with their chosen careers, the differences between the “4+2” and 5-year programs, and the required parts of obtaining a professional license in architecture. You’ll also hear how some of their friends are faring in careers when they didn’t become licensed by the National Architecture Accrediting Board.

Emily and Maria explain how the curriculum differs depending on the campus and confirm how important it is to research the programs available at different schools. You might be surprised by the level of drawing skills as well as math and science aptitudes required if your child is considering a career in industry.

Highlights* How studying differs by college * The path to becoming a licensed architect * Other careers those with architecture degrees can pursue * Required art, math, and science aptitudes for success

Meet Our Guests
Emily Khalid Zand is an project manager and architectural designer at WSP USA in Philadelphia, PA. Emily currently specializes in transportation architecture and planning, notably working on Maryland Transit Authority and Chicago METRA rail projects. Emily is passionate about human-centered design that engages the community in the design process and champions their priorities.

Prior to working at WSP, Emily has worked for 5+ years in architecture industries ranging from multifamily developments to healthcare.

Outside of work, Emily is the cohost of the Open Plan Podcast. The goal of the podcast is to bring transparency to the field of architecture and inspire the next generation of designers and architects.

Emily holds a Bachelor of Science in Architecture from Temple University and a Master of Architecture from the Georgia Institute of Technology. She is an Associate member of the American Institute of Architects and a LEED Green Associate.

Maria Pastorelli is a Design & Marketing Associate at Studio SOGO and co-host of the Open Plan Podcast. She received both her B.S. in Architecture and Master of Architecture from the Georgia Institute of Technology. Originally from Brazil, she moved to Atlanta in 2014 to pursue her studies, becoming consistently involved in school leadership positions as a member of the Advisory Board and a Teaching Assistant.

Aside from her coursework, Maria was the Marketing Director of student-led organization Equity in Architecture, while also completing internships at Perkins and Will. Her early experience has been in healthcare and community-driven initiatives. She graduated with her Masters in 2020 and has been working on various multi-family, educational, and commercial projects. Additionally, Maria has gained valuable experience in Marketing and currently manages all of Studio SOGO’s online presence.

When she’s not in the office, Maria runs the Open Plan Podcast hoping to help aspiring and current students through the industry.

Listen on…

If you have more questions than answers on college planning and you don't want your student to miss opportunities, using a proven timeline for planning is important. That's why I created my college planning timeline PDF for college-bound families. To get your copy, go to flourishcoachingco.com and head to the Resources page.

Don't forget to get your answers on what to do when in college planning head on over to my website, flourishcoachingco.com. Then head to the Resources page.

View Details

Chariot Learning founder, podcast host, and test prep certification educator Mike Bergin opens up about his unplanned career path. Test prep is an example of an industry that generates billions of dollars a year but it’s not necessarily the career that Mike planned for. In my conversation with Mike, we do some deep thinking about unplanned turns on the career journey.

There’s no way anyone can figure out their entire life, especially as a young adult, right? Mike’s starting point was he liked education and knew he wanted to be a life-long learner, but he didn’t want to teach in a classroom. He’ll share with you how he was able to land on the ultimate career for him while taking jobs along the way that moved him closer to what best aligns to him. I caught some glimpses from his story early on that were pointing the way all along. You might just notice similar early hints in your teen.

We ruminate on why getting through the journey requires continuous growth while figuring out the path. And how self-awareness and curiosity is essential for your teen to get to where they can clearly see the path to a flourishing future as they launch from your home.

It was fantastic to have Mike on after being on his and Amy Seely’s podcast twice in the past! Mike and Amy’s show is linked below.

Highlights* What are unplanned career paths * Which careers need to be intentionally planned * How to find threads in your story to create self awareness and then find your career path

Listen on…the Flourish Site, Spotify, Apple, Google, Amazon Music, Stitcher, or your favorite platform.

Links mentioned in this episodeLaunch College & Career Clarity Course

Launch College and Career Clarity Facebook Community

Chariot Learning

Tests and the Rest Podcast

National Test Prep Association

If you have more questions than answers on college planning and you don't want your student to miss opportunities, using a proven timeline for planning is important. That's why I created my college planning timeline PDF for college-bound families. To get your copy, go to flourishcoachingco.com and head to the Resources page.

Don't forget to get your answers on what to do when in college planning head on over to my website, flourishcoachingco.com. Then head to the Resources page.

View Details

If your student is considering a future in business this episode is required listening. Linda Abraham leans on her experience advising students since 1994. Business Insider named her the MBA admissions consult “to know if you want to get into a top business school”. You’ll walk away understanding the differences between a business degree in undergrad or earning an MBA or other graduate degrees. And you’ll understand what timing is important.

Linda identifies important skills and traits to develop along with suggesting which extracurriculars will be helpful in both high school and college. Learn which entrance exams to concentrate on and how both GPA and scores work with the extracurriculars and work history to determine who will be admitted.

Linda share important research that determines the ROI on investing in a business school education to help determine if it’s the right path for your student.

Highlights * Considerations when deciding between business as an undergraduate major or a master’s in business administration or management * The role of academic GPA and entrance exams * Non-academic pursuits that make an applicant more desirable to universities * The timeline for MBA programs * What the financial return on investment is for business programs

Listen on…the Flourish Site, Spotify, Apple, Google, Amazon Music, Stitcher, or your favorite platform.

Links mentioned in this episodeMBA ROI Calculator

MBA Admissions Timeline graphic

MBA Admissions Timeline post

Prep for B-School: A 4-Year Guide for College Students & Recent Grads

Launch College & Career Clarity Course

Launch College and Career Clarity Facebook Community

If you have more questions than answers on college planning and you don't want your student to miss opportunities, using a proven timeline for planning is important. That's why I created my college planning timeline PDF for college-bound families. To get your copy, go to flourishcoachingco.com and head to the Resources page.

Don't forget to get your answers on what to do when in college planning head on over to my website, flourishcoachingco.com. Then head to the Resources page.

View Details

If you’ve always subscribed to the rule that students can’t take a year off after high school or they’ll lose interest in college, you might change your mind after listening to this episode. Gap year expert, Holly Bull who is president of The Center for Interim Programs, explains what she calls “Gap Time” and outlines a variety of times and lengths your student may want to consider using an interim program.

You’ll learn how gap time can lead to more mature, rested, and focused students any time, but how it can be especially helpful during Covid. The statistics she shares on how gap time impacts student success in college and what you as a parent pay for college may just leave you considering this option for your student.

Beyond the benefits of taking gap time, Holly provides numerous examples of different programs at home and abroad. Her examples will help you and your student come up with not only ideas for how gap time can be spent, but also ways to curate extracurricular experiences for your student that will develop selfawareness so they can make informed future decisions. Holly’s own experience over 30 years ago eliminated a possible career path for her before she started college.

Lisa’s weekly challenge will show you how to lean into Holly’s wisdom as a resource to better position your student whether they take a gap year or not.

Highlights Why it should be called Gap Time instead of a Gap Year * How interim programs create more successful college students who graduate earlier than their peers * Ideas for planning your own curated programs from a few hours to a year * Successfully using Gap Time to cultivate maturity and gain career clarity*

Listen on…the Flourish Site, Spotify, Apple, Google, Amazon Music, Stitcher, or your favorite platform.

“College & Career Clarity with Lisa is so helpful!” ← Is that you? If so, please consider rating and reviewing my show so I can resource more families and eliminate overwhelm. Thank you!!

Links mentioned in this episodeLaunch College & Career Clarity Course

Launch College and Career Clarity Facebook Community

Center for Interim Programs

Instagram for Center for Interim Programs

If you have more questions than answers on college planning and you don't want your student to miss opportunities, using a proven timeline for planning is important. That's why I created my college planning timeline PDF for college-bound families. To get your copy, go to flourishcoachingco.com and head to the Resources page.

Don't forget to get your answers on what to do when in college planning head on over to my website, flourishcoachingco.com. Then head to the Resources page.

View Details

Secondary education teacher Josh Morgan caught our attention when he posted about looking for female professionals and leaders he could connect with to interview about their successful careers. He had 694 comments to his LinkedIn post that asked for suggestions on who he should interview. At the time of our discussion, Josh has had 57 interviews to date which he is recording for his students learn about what a day would look like in these various careers as well as advice for students as they think about what comes after graduation. Now he’s sharing this wealth of wisdom in his own podcast, “Empowering Her”, that he hopes will make a meaningful impact on students and adults.

Josh explains why his passion project is focused on females but how anyone can benefit from the insights he’s sharing from those interviews. He also shares the common traits, themes, and advice he’s gathered from the interviews. When applied, these nuggets of wisdom will help put your teen on a successful path.

Highlights * Differences in how male and female students think about future careers * Nuggets of wisdom for students from 57 successful women professionals * What students can do now to begin moving towards career clarity * Josh’s passion project

Listen on…the Flourish Site, Spotify, Apple, Google, Amazon Music, Stitcher, or your favorite platform.

Links mentioned in this episodeLisa’s Student LinkedIn Guide

Connect with Josh on LinkedIn

Josh’s Career Interviews on YouTube

Empowering Her Podcast

Launch College & Career Clarity Course

Launch College and Career Clarity Facebook Community

If you have more questions than answers on college planning and you don't want your student to miss opportunities, using a proven timeline for planning is important. That's why I created my college planning timeline PDF for college-bound families. To get your copy, go to flourishcoachingco.com and head to the Resources page.

Don't forget to get your answers on what to do when in college planning head on over to my website, flourishcoachingco.com. Then head to the Resources page.

View Details

We visit with high school junior Kate Louagie and her Mom, Alyssa, to talk about the opportunities that Kate’s found to explore a future career in photography we get a peek into a real-life student success story. While Mom takes a back seat, Kate explains how she’s using real-world experiences to find clarity on her future path after high school graduation.

Kate shares an experience that resonates with what Lisa Marker-Robbins teaches, “Just because you can do something, doesn’t mean you should do it”. Kate’s experiences of gaining good exposure to careers and thinking deeply as well as making connections to build her network early will leave you with ideas for your own family even if your student’s interests and aptitudes differ from Kate’s.

Alyssa reveals her part in playing a supporting role while Kate takes the lead. This is a great model for conversations that families should be having at home. Be sure to check out the links below to access the tools mentioned in this episode.

Highlights * Kate’s process of interviewing for & gaining internships * How parents can make introductions for student opportunities * Parent inspiration from Alyssa on guiding, not controlling, your student’s journey * The importance of students having a resume and LinkedIn profile

Listen on…the Flourish Site, Spotify, Apple, Google, Amazon Music, Stitcher, or your favorite platform.

Links mentioned in this episodeReal World Learning at Lakota Local Schools

Ali Wolfe Photography

Student LinkedIn Guide

Launch College & Career Clarity Course

Launch College and Career Clarity Facebook Community

If you have more questions than answers on college planning and you don't want your student to miss opportunities, using a proven timeline for planning is important. That's why I created my college planning timeline PDF for college-bound families. To get your copy, go to flourishcoachingco.com and head to the Resources page.

Don't forget to get your answers on what to do when in college planning head on over to my website, flourishcoachingco.com. Then head to the Resources page.

View Details

Sending emails to strangers or acquaitances can feel risky for teens and young adults who aren’t sure what to say or how to say it. Lisa Marker-Robbins pulls a page out of the Launch College & Career Clarity Course to share with parents how you can support your student as they learn how to communicate intelligently, appropriately, and courageously with colleges as well as adults and professionals.

Lisa will lay out research proven tips to help your student write important emails, including how to start the greeting and salutation, how to research and ask questions, and what to do if you don’t see a response. This advice works in more areas than college admissions. You'll soon understand another important step for parents to move to the back seat and put the student in the driver’s seat throughout the process of launching kids into a flourishing future.

Click here to get your free Tips, Tricks, and Templates to help as you and your student plan for a successful future.

Highlights Learn what to do before* you write an email * The best opening and closing for your emails * How many questions to ask to increase your chance of getting a response * What to do if you don’t get a response

Listen on…the Flourish Site, Spotify, Apple, Google, Amazon Music, Stitcher, or your favorite platform.

Links mentioned in this episodeEmail Tips & Templates Download

Launch College & Career Clarity Course

Launch College and Career Clarity Facebook Community

If you have more questions than answers on college planning and you don't want your student to miss opportunities, using a proven timeline for planning is important. That's why I created my college planning timeline PDF for college-bound families. To get your copy, go to flourishcoachingco.com and head to the Resources page.

Don't forget to get your answers on what to do when in college planning head on over to my website, flourishcoachingco.com. Then head to the Resources page.

View Details

“Be smarter about slaying the college planning dragon!” is financial planner, Beth Walker’s advice to smart parents who want to preserve their wealth, limit college debt, or both. She joins the podcast to speak about the critical components required to begin college planning to help your student get what they need academically, socially, and emotionally. She says, “even smart families with the means to pay for college can always do better.”

Beth’s approach is with the mind of a financial planner but the heart of a parent. Her unconventional message is a game-changer for smart parents who don’t want to overpay for college and explains how to solve the college cash flow challenge. You’ll hear why it has to be a team effort and why the process is much like painting a room.She says that while it’s not necessarily fun, the outcome is worth it.

Beth Walker is the author of Never Pay Retail for College - How Smart Parents Pay for College at the Right Price. She’s been crafting the best financial tips for college students for more than a decade and created the Center for College Solutions - to take the mystery out of the process and ensure that parents never pay retail for college.

Highlights* What leads to smart, successful parents overpaying for college when they wouldn’t overpay for a home * Why successful and affluent parents should strategize paying for college * How Beth, as a financial planner, learned that the two most import aspect of college planning have nothing to do with finances * How treating college planning like a kitchen remodel or painting a room leads to a better outcome for your student

Listen on…the Flourish Site, Spotify, Apple, Google, Amazon Music, Stitcher, or your favorite platform.

Links mentioned in this episodeBeth’s book: Never Pay Retail for College

Beth’s site: Center for College Solutions

Free College Planning Timeline from Lisa

Launch College & Career Clarity Course

Launch College and Career Clarity Facebook Community

If you have more questions than answers on college planning and you don't want your student to miss opportunities, using a proven timeline for planning is important. That's why I created my college planning timeline PDF for college-bound families. To get your copy, go to flourishcoachingco.com and head to the Resources page.

Don't forget to get your answers on what to do when in college planning head on over to my website, flourishcoachingco.com. Then head to the Resources page.

Never Pay Retail for College: How Smart Parents Find the Right School for the Right Price

View Details

Could you really work at NASA even if you don’t naturally excel at math and science? Kyra Kim joins the College and Career Clarity podcast to tell us how to overcome preconceived limitations. She’s had an interesting journey from taking the LSAT while still in high school in South Korea, to now working as an earth scientist at CalTech and NASA’s Jet Propulsion Lab in California.

She tells us how she figured out what was intuitive for her and what wasn’t so she could not only choose her path but work hard to get there. Driven by an interest in human rights, Kyra explains how and why she decided on geology over law. She’ll talk about the key qualities of a research scientist and how she learned the importance of humility.

Kyra’s passion is to inspire more female students to pursue career paths in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM). She’s revealing the truth behind some of the preconceived notions of working in those fields. Even if you or your student might not be a whiz in math or science, her amazing story will open you up to new possibilities.

Highlights * Careers at NASA for both earth and space * Different career paths for geology undergraduates * How Kyra ruled out being a lawyer and found her way in high school * What lawyers do * Qualities of research scientists

Listen on…the Flourish Site, Spotify, Apple, Google, Amazon Music, Stitcher, or your favorite platform.

Links mentioned in this episode

Launch College & Career Clarity Course

Launch College and Career Clarity Facebook Community

Website - kyrakim.com

Instagram - @whatsheworetoscience

If you have more questions than answers on college planning and you don't want your student to miss opportunities, using a proven timeline for planning is important. That's why I created my college planning timeline PDF for college-bound families. To get your copy, go to flourishcoachingco.com and head to the Resources page.

Don't forget to get your answers on what to do when in college planning head on over to my website, flourishcoachingco.com. Then head to the Resources page.

View Details

Statistics are driving home the importance of managing your child’s stress at college. Dale Troy joins the College and Career Clarity Podcast to tell parents how they can help their child maneuver through the pressure and stress that can overwhelm them at college.

With a 30% dropout rate and less than 60% of students able to complete a degree within 4 years, parents are often surprised when they discover that their child wasn’t ready for living on campus. Dale tells us what signs to look for before anxiety, depression, and stress derail them and the skills you can help your child start mastering in high school in order to prepare. And her information will help parents whose kids are still in high school position them for a successful transition to college.

Dale Troy is a College Success Coach and Certified Health Coach, who helps teens successfully transition to college. Dale's coaching program provides the life-skills that students need in college to have academic and social success, as well as physical and emotional health.

Highlights * Why parents shouldn’t assume their child go have a smooth transition to college * Learn what factors Dale attributes to more college stress today and how parents contribute to this * Tips for parents to proactively set their high school student up to be successful when they get to college * What are the identifiable traits of successful college students * How to recognize if your college student is floundering when they are away from you

Listen on…the Flourish Site, Spotify, Apple, Google, Amazon Music, Stitcher, or your favorite platform.

Links mentioned in this episodeCrush College Stress website

Dale’s Parent Facebook Group, College Parent Support Community

Episode #2 on How to Raise an Adult

Full Focus Planner

Launch College & Career Clarity Course

Launch College and Career Clarity Facebook Community

If you have more questions than answers on college planning and you don't want your student to miss opportunities, using a proven timeline for planning is important. That's why I created my college planning timeline PDF for college-bound families. To get your copy, go to flourishcoachingco.com and head to the Resources page.

Don't forget to get your answers on what to do when in college planning head on over to my website, flourishcoachingco.com. Then head to the Resources page.

View Details

Things have changed so much since you decided what college and career direction to go in. In this episode, you’ll hear how the Launch Career Clarity Course can assist you to hold your child’s hand and then eventually let go of their hand as they start their journey to the future. This is an opportunity to alleviate the stress that inevitably comes along with what happens in the fall of Senior year.

You’ll go behind the scenes of the course which teaches students how to know themselves and know what careers are out there in order to find alignment with who they are, and then understand the path to get into that career. You’ll learn more about the Birkman personality assessment, what happens inside the course, and how to manage what your child can do to maximize momentum towards progress.

Hear about the proven resources that come with the course, the community you’re joining and how to prepare. Launch Career Clarity Course repels the overwhelm you and your child might be feeling during this important time in their life and you’ll feel confident that you are parenting to the best of your ability.

Highlights* Who is a great fit for Launch Career Clarity * The Birkman personality assessment coupled with coaching works * Step-by-Step through each module’s focus * What happens in a weekly “Launch Live” * Why there isn’t just one job that fits * Bonus reports customized to your student * My full-refund guarantee

Listen on…the Flourish Site, Spotify, Apple, Google, Amazon Music, Stitcher, or your favorite platform.

Links mentioned in this episodeLaunch College & Career Clarity Course

If you have more questions than answers on college planning and you don't want your student to miss opportunities, using a proven timeline for planning is important. That's why I created my college planning timeline PDF for college-bound families. To get your copy, go to flourishcoachingco.com and head to the Resources page.

Don't forget to get your answers on what to do when in college planning head on over to my website, flourishcoachingco.com. Then head to the Resources page.

View Details

For over 20 years, admissions expert, Luisa Rabe, has been working with students interested in the medical field and has helped nearly 1,000 students gain acceptance into medical schools of their choice. And when working with her a student discovers in the process that medical school isn’t for them, she helps guide them in a better direction that fits their wiring.

Luisa reveals what you’ll need to get into med school and how to discover if your teen really wants to be a scientist, healer, and educator in the medical field. You’ll learn the skills and qualities a good doctor embodies and recommended high school and college extracurriculars, college GPA and majors that are recommended for future medical school admission.

If you don’t know what her recommended “glide year” is, you’ll definitely want to consider it in your planning.

Highlights * (3:53) Other healthcare careers to consider in addition to doctor * (4:55) Students who start investigating medicine, but find it doesn’t fit * (6:40) The 5 personal skills it takes to be a doctor - does your teen have them * (8:48) What GPA does it take to get admitted to medical school & what courses matter most * (10:14) How selective are nursing programs * (11:50) What are the best majors for pre-med * (13:55) Curricular and extracurricular advice for high school students to figure out sooner rather than later if medicine is a fit * (19:15) The timeline for applying to medical school and the application process * (21:54) What the important “glide year” is

Listen on…the Flourish Site, Spotify, Apple, Google, Amazon Music, Stitcher, or your favorite platform.

Links mentioned in this episodeLuisa’s Website

Email Luisa: luisa@pruettrabe.com

Launch College & Career Clarity Course

Launch College and Career Clarity Facebook Community

Great resource for parents of ALL children

“Lisa’s podcast will give you insight on things you can do for and are doing to your children which will help them succeed and leave the nest ON THEIR OWN. The clarity this first episode gave me will change how I relate to my young adults we raised.”

If you have more questions than answers on college planning and you don't want your student to miss opportunities, using a proven timeline for planning is important. That's why I created my college planning timeline PDF for college-bound families. To get your copy, go to flourishcoachingco.com and head to the Resources page.

Don't forget to get your answers on what to do when in college planning head on over to my website, flourishcoachingco.com. Then head to the Resources page.

View Details

Moira McCollough talks to Lisa about what should be the fun part of the college-bound journey, finding a “social fit”. Her expertise is how to assess fit through the eyes of the students attending the school, not the college itself.

The college will show you the highlight real, but students will give a close-up real look at campus life and the surrounding community.

Her tips will have your family well prepared for in-person and virtual visits and she provides answers on how your family can learn what students do on a Friday night, where they can work out, the best restaurants in the area, and more.

Moira is a mom of three college students and through her own trials, errors, and successes that she shares with us, you’ll be empowered to help your student have more meaningful visits which will enable your teen to make an informed final decision on where they will call home for four years.

Her advice and own experiences with her kids will give you ideas on how to get your own student involved in campus visits in a meaningful way.

College Scoops is Moira’s platform that came out of her own experiences. She has a strong team of student interns on a variety of campuses who have curated interactive guides highlighting favorite places to eat, stay, and play around campus, for both students and parents. It’s a must have resource for families serious about assessing social fit before applying and enrolling in college.

Episode Highlights* What defines “social fit” when trying to find the right college * Advice on connecting with students already attending schools to give a better look at what it has to offer. * How to prepare for visits * Ideas for getting to know the surrounding community along with the college * Tips for making sure you don’t forget campus highlights later

Listen on…the Flourish Site, Spotify, Apple, Google, Amazon Music, Stitcher, or your favorite platform.

Links mentioned in this episodeContact Moira at: Moira@collegescoops.com

College Scoops Website

Follow on Social Media as: CollegeScoops

Otter ai

Rev App

Launch College & Career Clarity Course

Launch College and Career Clarity Facebook Community

Great resource for parents of ALL children

“Lisa’s podcast will give you insight on things you can do for and are doing to your children which will help them succeed and leave the nest ON THEIR OWN. The clarity this first episode gave me will change how I relate to my young adults we raised

If you have more questions than answers on college planning and you don't want your student to miss opportunities, using a proven timeline for planning is important. That's why I created my college planning timeline PDF for college-bound families. To get your copy, go to flourishcoachingco.com and head to the Resources page.

Don't forget to get your answers on what to do when in college planning head on over to my website, flourishcoachingco.com. Then head to the Resources page.

View Details

In this Career Close-Up episode, Mike Schuetter, a chief information security officer for a regional IT company, joins us to talk about his varied computer career path that eventually led to working in cybersecurity which wasn’t even a career field when he started college.

As a teenage boy who loved playing video games (sound familiar, parents?) Mike turned from his gaming obsession to creating video games which led to majoring in computer engineering at the University of Toledo. But he had no idea exactly where he’d land with his career in computers. Mike shares with us how a foundation was laid, tools were mastered, he tried on different computer specialties then it all came together developing into a career that truly fits him.

You’ll learn the importance of your teen getting into the room by doing some professional networking and will learn what differentiates different computer fields and how he defends computers from malicious use of technology. Even if you’ve never thought about going into computers, he advises not to take it off the list of consideration until you’ve investigated the field and he suggests what extracurriculars can be meaningful in getting hired if this is your right fit.

Highlights:* (4:21) Mike’s passions as a high school student * (5:53) The differences between computer science & computer engineering majors * (8:52) The history of cybersecurity * (10:24) What being a computer application development field is * (9:49) The importance of networking * (13:21) The field of operating system administration including Linux * (15:52) The field of cybersecurity and what they do * (18:26) How career fields develop into those we can’t even anticipate * (19:49) What your student can do now to figure out if different computer fields fit them * (21:48) Calculus coursework as it relates to achieving the necessary degree * (22:44) The differences between engineering, engineering technology, and IT * (25:29) What extracurriculars can make a student resume pop when Mike’s hiring * (27:57) Characteristics of those who thrive in cybersecurity

Links mentioned in this episode* Launch College and Career Clarity Facebook Community - Connect with Mike here! * Career information on Cybersecurity * University of Toledo * Launch College & Career Clarity Course

If you have more questions than answers on college planning and you don't want your student to miss opportunities, using a proven timeline for planning is important. That's why I created my college planning timeline PDF for college-bound families. To get your copy, go to flourishcoachingco.com and head to the Resources page.

Don't forget to get your answers on what to do when in college planning head on over to my website, flourishcoachingco.com. Then head to the Resources page.

View Details

We all know that college is expensive, so parents don’t like the idea of their students wasting time on majors; they end up changing while trying to figure out their career path. Vicki Weisbrod is a counselor atBishop Fenwick High School in Ohio and along with her team, they are the first high school to work with Lisa in the Launch Career Clarity Course.

Find out how Lisa’s program coupled with theBirkman personality test has become a GAME CHANGER for Fenwick H.S. and helps students and parents look for college majors and careers that students can excel in according to their personal interests, values, and wiring. They discuss the importance of adding career to the conversation around future planning.

Highlights:

(2:59) The difference between roles of being a high school counselor and college counselor and how her career has changed in those roles.

(4:05) How the team works with families to address the academic, social, and emotional college and career aspects of high school.

(6:12) How they decided to add career counseling to their program in addition to college counseling.

(10:07) Vicki talks about how improving planning for college and future careers became personal for her, being a parent herself and she used the Birkman test for the first time.

(13:25) The change to college planning that took place 4 years ago at Fenwick H.S.

(16:42) How Vicki’s team feels more effective in their jobs since using the Birkman and working with Lisa.

(20:24) When is the best time to give students the Birkman test to meet them where they are?

(23:22) Advice to parents of students that don’t have these resources.

(26:29) How and when to talk to students about planning for the future.

(27:52) How to learn more about Fenwick H.S. or get in touch with Vicki.

If you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast so you never miss valuable content to help your teen.

Links mentioned in this episode:

Bishop Fenwick High School

Birkman Personality Test

Join the Launch College & Career Clarity free Facebook community

Launch Career Clarity Course

If you have more questions than answers on college planning and you don't want your student to miss opportunities, using a proven timeline for planning is important. That's why I created my college planning timeline PDF for college-bound families. To get your copy, go to flourishcoachingco.com and head to the Resources page.

Don't forget to get your answers on what to do when in college planning head on over to my website, flourishcoachingco.com. Then head to the Resources page.

View Details

When is it appropriate to step in and help your college-aged kid talk to their professor, fill out a form, nail a job interview, or even cut their own meat? Julie Lythcott Haims, a former dean of freshman students at Stanford University and New York Times critically acclaimed and best-selling author of “How to Raise an Adult,” joins the podcast to talk about raising our kids to take care of themselves by using good judgment and empowering them to make their own decisions.

She believes many students are applying to too many colleges and gives her insight into the problems that “highly rejective” and other colleges are having as a result of how parents are watching their kids using the blue dot in many of the apps that tell you exactly where your teen is at any time.

Julie reveals the issues that arise when parents are afraid to let their children learn by failing and what the metrics of over-parenting are. You will be talked out of the trap that undermines your kid’s skill development. She says that chores and love are the best things you can teach your kids and you should see and accept them for who they are instead of who you think your child should be.

(4:46) Her experience at Stanford & her reaction

(7:29) Issues of safety and how it relates to parenting

(9:45) What watching your teen in an app won’t insure

(11:52) How chores matter and can foster raising adults

(13:22) The 4 parenting styles

(16:32) Advice to parents on how to help your teen find their own way to the right college

(20:52) The power of chores and love in your parenting.

Links mentioned in this episode:Julie’s Social Media handle everywhere: jlythcotthaims

Julie’s Pod (Blog)

Julie’s Website

How to Raise an Adult

Your Turn: How to Be An Adult

Julie’s TED Talk

Join the Launch College & Career Clarity free Facebook community

Launch Career Clarity Course

If you have more questions than answers on college planning and you don't want your student to miss opportunities, using a proven timeline for planning is important. That's why I created my college planning timeline PDF for college-bound families. To get your copy, go to flourishcoachingco.com and head to the Resources page.

Don't forget to get your answers on what to do when in college planning head on over to my website, flourishcoachingco.com. Then head to the Resources page.

Your Turn: How to Be an Adult
How to Raise an Adult: Break Free of the Overparenting Trap and Prepare Your Kid for Success

View Details

If you are overwhelmed with the college-bound journey, confused by how much things have changed, or frustrated by having more questions than answers, then College and Career Clarity is the compass you need, when you need it most.

Weekly episodes with Lisa Marker-Robbins and her guests, provide families with strategic guidance to resource your student to make informed choices that align with their passions, purpose, and potential future.

You’ll be informed to be able to have intentional & productive family conversations grounded in guidance and broken into actionable steps to move from overwhelmed and confused to motivated, clear, and confident about your teen’s future.

Series premiere: January 25, 2022

If you have more questions than answers on college planning and you don't want your student to miss opportunities, using a proven timeline for planning is important. That's why I created my college planning timeline PDF for college-bound families. To get your copy, go to  flourishcoachingco.com and head to the Resources page. 

Don't forget to get your answers on what to do when in college planning head on over to my website, flourishcoachingco.com. Then head to the Resources page.