Podcasts about atlanta mission

Welcome back to another episode of the unSeminary podcast. We're talking with Tensley Almand, President and CEO of Atlanta Mission, the largest and longest-running provider of services for people experiencing homelessness in the Atlanta metro area. Founded in 1938 as a soup kitchen during the Great Depression, Atlanta Mission now operates four campuses, serving over 800 men, women, and children nightly through programs that provide housing, recovery support, and Christ-centered transformation. How do you lead through complexity while staying true to your calling? Tensley shares leadership lessons from his transition from church ministry to leading a $20 million nonprofit—insights that apply to every pastor or church leader navigating growth, complexity, or change. Moving beyond shelter to transformation. // While many think of Atlanta Mission as only an emergency shelter, over 60% of its beds are dedicated to long-term transformational programs that address root causes of homelessness. The yearlong program includes counseling, trauma recovery, life skills, and vocational training. Clients complete a four-week “Next Steps” program focused on relational, emotional, and workplace health. The results are remarkable: 70% of graduates maintain stable housing and employment a year later. Learning to lead by listening. // When Tensley stepped into his CEO role, he faced the challenge of succeeding a leader who had guided the organization from crisis to stability. Rather than arriving as the expert, Tensley began as what he calls the “Chief Question Officer.” He met with every employee to ask four key questions: What's right? What's wrong? What's missing? What's confusing? The responses revealed a clear need for strategic focus. Building clarity and focus. // Using that input, Tensley led a yearlong process to create a strategic roadmap—a seven-year plan that defines the organization's mission, values, and measurable outcomes. When there's clarity in an organization, saying ‘no' becomes easy and saying ‘yes' becomes difficult. The new strategy gave Atlanta Mission a unified framework for decision-making, with every initiative measured against the same mission. Measuring what matters. // Data fuels care. In order to better track client progress, the team at Atlanta Mission built dashboards, measuring not only how many people they serve but how lives are changing. When graduation rates dipped from 70% to 45%, they discovered the cause wasn't program failure but economic change. That same approach can transform church leadership. Churches measure nickels and noses, but what if we measured progression—how many first-time guests become group members, or how many volunteers grow into leaders? Partnership through presence. // Atlanta Mission thrives through partnerships with churches across the city. Tensley explains that relational poverty—people lacking healthy connections—is as debilitating as material poverty. Rather than only focusing on “do for” service projects, he encourages churches to create “be with” opportunities: hosting birthday parties, sharing meals, or building relationships with families at Atlanta Mission. Encouragement for leaders. // Reflecting on his own journey, Tensley reminds church leaders who feel stretched or uncertain that often you’ll overestimate what you can accomplish in 90 days, but underestimate what you can do in a year or two. Take time to listen, build unity, and stay faithful in the process. Over time, that faithfulness becomes transformation—both in the people you lead and in yourself. To learn more about Atlanta Mission, visit atlantamission.org or email to connect or schedule a visit. Thank You for Tuning In! There are a lot of podcasts you could be tuning into today, but you chose unSeminary, and I'm grateful for that. If you enjoyed today's show, please share it by using the social media buttons you see at the left hand side of this page. Also, kindly consider taking the 60-seconds it takes to leave an honest review and rating for the podcast on iTunes, they're extremely helpful when it comes to the ranking of the show and you can bet that I read every single one of them personally! Episode Transcript Rich Birch — Hey friends, welcome to the unSeminary podcast. I am so glad that you have decided to tune in. We’ve got a real honored to have an incredible guest on today’s episode. We’ve got Tensley Almand with us. He is the president and CEO of Atlanta Mission. Rich Birch — Now, if you don’t know Atlanta Mission, I’m not sure where you’ve been. You really should know. This organization was founded in 1938 as a soup kitchen to feed men who were displaced by the Great Depression. And they just keep chugging along. They do incredible work. They now serve Metro Atlanta’s largest homeless population and bring hope in the face of homelessness, poverty, and addiction. Rich Birch — Prior to serving at Atlanta Mission, he was in vocational ministry for 20 plus years, the last 12 of those, as we were just saying in the pre-call. He said, felt like he had the the best job in the world, was a lead pastor at Decatur City Church, one of the eight Atlanta City, Atlanta area campuses of North Point Ministries. Tensley, welcome. So glad you’re here. Tensley Almand — Man, so good to be here. Thanks so much for having me. I’ve been looking forward to this conversation. Rich Birch — No, this is going to be good. I’m excited. Why don’t you kind of fill in the picture? Tell us a little bit more of your background and tell us a bit more about Atlanta Mission, that kind of thing. Just help set the table. Tensley Almand — Yeah, so I’m a native Atlantan. I grew up here, born and raised just north of the city. Yeah. Only child. Parents still live north of the city in the same town that I grew up in. Rich Birch — Nice. Tensley Almand — My wife and I, we have four kids. We have been married now, just celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary… Rich Birch — Congratulations. That’s great. Tensley Almand — …which makes me feel old, but it’s it’s it’s all good. So four kids, three boys, little girl, they’re all just amazing, doing great things and in their worlds. We live over in city of Decatur. So ah for those that don’t know, just kind of just right outside of downtown Atlanta. So we feel like we’re living in the heart of the city. Rich Birch — Cool. Tensley Almand — Like you said, I spent 20 plus years on the church side of ministry, which you had told younger me that that was going to be my future, I probably would have laughed at you. Grew up in a family that church just frankly, wasn’t that important to us. My mom gets mad if I say I didn’t grow up in a Christian home, um, which, you know, looking back, I think is really true. I just grew up in a home that we didn’t feel like the church was for us. Rich Birch — Right. Tensley Almand — And so, um, after, you know, meeting Jesus in college, giving my life to him, which is a whole nother really cool story, started down the path towards ministry. And eventually several years into that kind of looked up and thought, I don’t know what I’m doing. Like I’m working at these churches that I don’t even want to attend. Tensley Almand — Like remember this very pivotal meeting in my life where our pastor asked us, he’s like, if I didn’t pay you to go to church here, is this the church you would attend? Rich Birch — Yes. Tensley Almand — And every one of us said no. Rich Birch — Oh, gosh. Oh, my goodness. Tensley Almand — And they were all okay with it. Rich Birch — Oh, no. Tensley Almand — And I just like something broke in me. Rich Birch — Oh, no. Oh, no. Yeah. Tensley Almand — And I remember going home and I told my wife, I was like, I can’t do this anymore. Rich Birch — Right. Tensley Almand — And so I started the process of just trying to find a job. But the problem is I’ve genuinely felt called by God to ministry. And so God used that to, to lead us down the path of starting Decatur City Church. And, um, our whole dream was just to create a church that people who didn’t like church would love to attend. Tensley Almand — And so, which is really cool. Again, it’s probably a whole other episode, but really cool because we got to do that in one of the most unchurched cities in Atlanta. 70% of the people who live in Decatur ah don’t go to a church. And Decatur, for those who don’t know, small little town right outside of a big city. Rich Birch — Right. Tensley Almand — But literally, there’s over 600 churches in that town. So we used to say all the time, nobody wakes up on Sunday wondering where a church is. They just wake up wondering if church is for them. Rich Birch — Right, right. Tensley Almand — And so that’s, that’s the thing we tried to solve. Right. Rich Birch — Right. Tensley Almand — And so did that for 12 years, thought I would do that with my whole life. Just an amazing season. And then God called me out of there to Atlanta Mission. And so for those who don’t know, and we can get into that story here if you want to, but, for those who don’t know, Atlanta mission, like you said, it’s the largest and longest running provider of services… Rich Birch — Wow. Tensley Almand — …for men, women, and children experiencing homelessness in our city. So for perspective, what that means is on any given night, we’ll have about 800 men, women, or children who are staying with us. Rich Birch — Wow. Wow. That’s a significant operation. That’s, that’s incredible. Tensley Almand — It’s a significant operation. Rich Birch — Yeah. Tensley Almand — It represents that in our city, that represents about 35 to 40% of all the shelter beds in Atlanta. Rich Birch — Wow. Wow. Tensley Almand — So that’s, it’s a, it’s pretty remarkable opportunity that we do that across three campuses in downtown Atlanta. Rich Birch — Okay. Tensley Almand — One for men, two for women and children. Rich Birch — Yeah. Tensley Almand — And then we have this really cool drug and alcohol addiction facility out near Athens, which is about an hour outside of town, on 550 acre farm that is just beautiful ah for men who are in recovery from addiction. Rich Birch — Wow. Oh my goodness. Huh. Tensley Almand — So yeah. Rich Birch — Yeah. That’s, that’s incredible. i’m I’m glad you started with the kind of community size that you’re you’re serving. That’s, that’s amazing. Give me a sense of the operation from like a, you know, total number of staff, other kinds of metrics. Like I’m just trying to, I know, you know, you’re not a kind of person that’s going to brag about that kind of stuff, but just trying to help people kind of place, because this is a significant operation, friends. Atlanta Mission is it’s a world-class organization doing great work and honored to have you on this the show. But people might not be ah kind of aware of the the scale of it. Give us a bit more sense of that. Tensley Almand — Yeah, no, it’s a, it’s a good question. I appreciate you asking. Cause yeah, I definitely don’t, I don’t want to, I don’t like going there, but… Rich Birch — Yes. And it’s even just, it’s a funny thing to, it’s a funny thing to even like, it’s like, well, we’re really good. It’s like, it’s like, well, yeah, it’s a tough thing you’re doing. So it’s like, man, it’s a weird thing to kind of try to but get ah your arms around. How, how do we talk about this? Yeah. Tensley Almand — Yeah. So let me kind of give you scope and then let me talk a little bit about what we’re doing. So scope is ah we’re we’re about a $20 million dollars a year organization. Rich Birch — Yep. Yep. Tensley Almand — And so just like every church out there, that means, you know, we start July as the start of our fiscal year and we start at zero… Rich Birch — Yep. Tensley Almand — …and then we go and raise $20 million dollars… Rich Birch — Right. Tensley Almand — …to meet the need of our expenses. And we do that through mainly private and and corporate donations. And so… Rich Birch — Yep. Tensley Almand — …we’re almost a hundred percent privately funded this year. Rich Birch — Oh, wow. Tensley Almand — We, we, we took our very first government grant. Rich Birch — Huh. Tensley Almand — But I mean, it’s a $250,000 grant, which is not insignificant, but on the scope of 20 million. So that kind of gives everybody an idea. So you’re talking about, uh, you know, thousands of donors who come alongside of us to partner with us, which is just amazing. Rich Birch — Yeah. Amazing. Yeah. Tensley Almand — We serve about 800 men, women, and children, like I said, Rich Birch — Yeah. Tensley Almand — And we have right at about 180 staff… Rich Birch — Wow. Tensley Almand — …who are who are either you know full-time equivalents basically here with us. And that’s across four different campuses. So we’re essentially like a multi-site operation. So I’m sitting here at my office today, which is basically our mission support center. Rich Birch — Yeah. Tensley Almand — So your accounting, HR, development team, all of your infrastructure, and we support the work that’s happening all over our city. Rich Birch — Right. Tensley Almand — And then we also have three thrift stores across Northeast Georgia that’s included in that head count. Rich Birch — Wow. Tensley Almand — And so a little bit of that 20 million that I was telling you about that that revenue comes from sales as well. And so, so yeah, it’s pretty broad organization. And then what we do, a lot of people think about you know Atlanta Mission, especially here in our city, and they just think emergency shelter. Rich Birch — Right. Tensley Almand — Certainly what we do. But of those 800 beds, roughly only 40% of those go towards emergency shelter. And so if you… Rich Birch — Oh, really? OK. Tensley Almand — Yeah. And so if you show up at our door and you just need safety, security, stability, um, you’re just trying to like get off the street… Rich Birch — Right. Tensley Almand — …we have a program called Find Hope… Rich Birch — Yep. Tensley Almand — …and it’s a 30-day program. You can stay with us rent free 30 days. You know, bed meals, showers, really, really, really, really low expectation on those clients. Rich Birch — Right. Tensley Almand — It’s just like, hey, we’re here to meet your needs. Rich Birch — Yeah, that’s cool. Tensley Almand — The other 60% of our beds go towards what we call our transformational model… Rich Birch — Okay. Tensley Almand — …where we provide complete wraparound services. It’s about a year long program. Rich Birch — Wow. Tensley Almand — You show up and we’re going to try to help you get healthy relationally, physically, emotionally, spiritually, vocationally. We’ve got counselors, we’ve got advocates, we’ve got social workers. You have a whole team… Rich Birch — Right. Tensley Almand — …that works with you, walks with you for a year… Rich Birch — Wow. Tensley Almand — …depending on really your core traumas, what’s caused your homelessness. And our main goal, our mission is to transform through Christ the lives of those who are experiencing homelessness, poverty, and addiction. Tensley Almand — And so what we want to do, what that means to us is over the course of that year, Um, we want to give you the tools to identify your traumas, understand those traumas and ultimately break the cycles so that you don’t ever have to come back to our doors again. We we tell our clients, we love you, but we don’t ever want to see you again. Like this is just like, like, how do we… Rich Birch — Yes. Yes. This was a phase of your life, hopefully, right? Tensley Almand — Yeah. Rich Birch — That’s the goal. Tensley Almand — How do we end that for you? And so our program goes through all the counseling, all the services, and it wraps up in a vocational training program we call Next Steps that… Rich Birch — Wow. That’s amazing. Tensley Almand — …that gives our clients the soft skills they need to not just get a job. Because here’s here’s what’s really cool. You you would get this. Our clients are really good at getting jobs. But like so many people out there, we’re terrible at keeping a job. Rich Birch — Right. Right. Right. Yes. Tensley Almand — Like people don’t know the skills needed to like keep a job. Like how do you manage conflict? Rich Birch — Right, right. Tensley Almand — What do you do with that boss who’s just overbearing? How do you have normal workplace conversations? Rich Birch — Yes. Tensley Almand — And so we have a ah four week training program that gives our clients those skills. And what we’re finding is that for the clients who go all the way through our program, 70% of those who graduate our program, they still have a house or a living situation a year later. Rich Birch — Wow. Tensley Almand — And they are maintaining that job a year later. Rich Birch — Wow. That’s incredible. Tensley Almand — And so it’s just been a remarkable, remarkable journey. And so we’ve got some transitional housing in there… Rich Birch — Yep. Tensley Almand — …where you graduate our program, you stay with us, we help you save up and and we help you find an apartment. And then when you’re ready financially and you’re you’re stable, we help you move into that that apartment. Tensley Almand — And what’s really cool, probably one of my favorite things is for alumni is that year after you graduate, you get a retention coach with us and they walk with you. And they just help you navigate life because, man, when you’ve stayed somewhere for a year and then you kind of come back in and you’re like, oooh, the pressures of the world are on me. That first year is so tough. Rich Birch — So hard. Yeah. Tensley Almand — Yeah. Yeah. Rich Birch — Well, that’s cool. I appreciate you sharing that. and And yeah, even church leaders that are listening in, um man, ah there whether if you’re in the Atlanta area, you definitely should reach out to Atlanta Mission. Rich Birch — But even in your neighborhood, like there are, this is why you shouldn’t be trying to invent this yourself as a church. There are these are incredibly complex issues that you know when I heard all of the the different things you’re doing to surround people, try to help them, um that’s that’s inspiring. That’s amazing. Rich Birch — Well, I’d love to pivot and talk about kind of your experience as you’ve transitioned in, like some try to extract some leadership lessons. It’s been said that one of the first things that leaders do is define reality or gain clarity for their for their organization. Rich Birch — When you first started early on in your role, what were you listening for or look for that told you, maybe there’s some areas here that just aren’t very clear? What did you see as you were, you know, we got to bring some more clarity in the organization? Were there things you kind of saw that that made you think, oh, we maybe this is some areas we need to gain some better clarity as an organization? Tensley Almand — Yeah, no, absolutely. And I think, you know, every leadership transition is different. One of the advantages I had is that what my predecessor was leaving me was so much different than what he inherited. Rich Birch — That’s good. Tensley Almand — And so he inherited an organization that was in crisis. He handed me an organization that was thriving. But, that organization really was, and he was, and it’s it’s all kind of wrapped up in our story, is that it was time for him to retire. It was time for him to move on. And so the whole organization was asking what’s next. And so that’s, that’s one advantage I had is that there was this collective, like, well, like what what is next for us? That was helpful. Tensley Almand — The other advantage I had, and I did not think this was an advantage. But, you know, I, I came out of church ministry. I didn’t know how to lead a nonprofit. I didn’t know anything about homelessness. Rich Birch — Right. Tensley Almand — Tensley Almand — I didn’t know much about social services. And so, yeah I truly believe God called me into this, but I couldn’t come in like an expert. Rich Birch — Right. Tensley Almand — And so I literally was forced to, my I tell people my door said CEO, but I think I was really the chief question officer. I mean, my my first year… Rich Birch — Help me understand. Help me understand. Tensley Almand — …was, yeah, asking questions. I can I can vividly remember our clinical director coming into my office and saying, hey, we’ve got this massive clinical decision that we need to make and there’s this and this and this. And you know and then like trying to leave that way. What do you think we should do? And I’m like… you’re the clinical director. Like, what do what do you mean? Rich Birch — Yes. Tensley Almand — But that was again, and this is and he would say this if he was sitting here, my predecessor had an organization that was in crisis. And so every decision had to center on him. And I needed to come in and teach our team how to have a decentralized leadership. How like, hey, look you’re the clinical director I’m going to support you, I’m to remove obstacles for you. But if I have to make clinical decisions, we’re we’ve got a really big problem because I’m not qualified to make that decision. Tensley Almand — And so um really pushing leadership down… Rich Birch — yeah Tensley Almand — …asking a lot of questions, understanding what we do. And so that was that was a huge advantage that that i think a lot of people probably, they can like I did, they they think about the things that are stacked against them. To me, it’s like you don’t know anything about the space. That’s a big obstacle. Rich Birch — Right. Tensley Almand — Well, maybe lean into those obstacles because it’s a really good way to to get underneath the hood. And so it forced me to ask questions, forced me to listen. And then what I did is I I truly went on a just a listening tour. Rich Birch — That’s good. Tensley Almand — I set up a meeting, I think, with every employee of our organization. Rich Birch — Wow. Wow. Tensley Almand — And I asked everybody what’s right, what’s wrong, what’s missing and what’s confusing. Rich Birch — Huh. Tensley Almand — And I still have that notebook. Rich Birch — Right. Tensley Almand — I mean, my assistant like cataloged answers for days. Rich Birch — Right. Tensley Almand — And what was so cool to me was that without having the same language, almost everybody in the organization identified the same rights, wrongs, missings and confusions. And so I was able to then take that and really come back to our senior team and say, hey, what should we do about this? Like we all… Rich Birch — Right. Tensley Almand — We all agree this is a problem. like What should we do do? And I think a colleague of mine, I remember walking into his office and he had this drawing on his board. I’m like, what is what is that? He’s like, well, is how I feel about our organization. I remember it was ah it was a circle. Rich Birch — Yeah. Tensley Almand — And all the arrows were pointed in every direction around the circle. And he’s like, that’s us. Like, we’ve got the right idea… Rich Birch — Right. Tensley Almand — …but everybody’s pulling in a hundred directions to try to figure out how to do that idea. Rich Birch — Wow. Tensley Almand — and I said, man, we need to take that circle and get all those arrows on one side. Cause if we can collectively pull… and that just kind of became our quest. And so we took all those answers and, you know, basically the the big thing was, um you know, and I don’t know where I learned this, but I feel like when there’s clarity in an organization, ‘no’ is really easy and ‘yes’ is is really difficult. It’s like really easy to say no. Rich Birch — That’s good. Tensley Almand — And what I found at Atlanta Mission was we were just saying yes to everything. And the reason we were saying yes to everything is because there was no strategy, there was no clarity. Rich Birch — That’s good. Tensley Almand — And so we took that first year and a half, wrote our strategic plan, identified who we want to be and why we want to be that. And then what would it look like to be that organization? And so we just kind of built it backwards. And that’s the journey we’ve been on now for the last four years since I’ve been here. Rich Birch — Wow. That’s, ah yeah, that’s incredible. I love that that feeling. In fact, i I took over a nonprofit ah kids camp and much smaller scale than what you’re running. But I remember those early days where there yeah people are looking at you and and and there is this sense of like, okay, so like you got to tell us where we’re going. What is the thing we’re doing next? Like and it’s easy to like… the easy thing is, let’s try this. Let’s try that. Let’s do a bunch of different things. And that can lead to that pulling, those hundred different, you know, it’s lots of activity, but it’s not focused. Tensley Almand — Yeah. Rich Birch — And trying to get everybody on a kind of a shared page of or shared picture of what the future looks like, man, that’s great through this, this process of kind of we’re going to do a strategic plan over a year. What, what would you, what would you say to a leader that is feeling the pressure of like, Hey, I want to define the future now, as opposed to that feels like a step back. We’re going to year and a half and define this stuff. What would you say to a leader? Why should we slow down? Talk us through why that, how that benefited now that you’re on the other side of all that. Tensley Almand — Yeah, I think the first thing I would say is it’s it’s totally worth it. I mean, it it was hard. It was challenging. It it does feel like a step back. But I don’t know how to step forward without without clarity, you know. Rich Birch — Right. Tensley Almand — And that’s, you said at the beginning, I got to ah got to be one of the campus pastors at North Point Community Church for years. I can remember Andy always saying, The beauty of North Point wasn’t that we got to start with a blank page, just that we started on the same page. Rich Birch — That’s good Tensley Almand — And I just think that like that, that is always set with me. And so when I when I started here, I realized like, hey, I don’t I don’t get the luxury of a blank page. I mean, this organization has been around since 1938. You know, when I when I started Decatur City, it was so easy because I just told everybody what we were doing and why we were doing it and there was nothing else we were doing. Rich Birch — Right. Tensley Almand — And so it was just like… But here it’s like, OK, if I can’t get to a blank page, the best thing I can do is we’ve got to get on the same page… Rich Birch — Right. Tensley Almand — …or else we’re just we’re going to spin our tires. And, and you know, I think I’ll I’ll this story probably sums it up and maybe somebody can relate to this. I have a monthly breakfast with our board chair and our vice chair. And the very first breakfast I went to in this role, it was my predecessor’s last breakfast and my first. And so we’re all so it’s him, it’s me and it’s a board chair a vice chair, all of which have been around this organization 3x the amount of time I had at that point, I had been there like three days. Rich Birch — Yes. Yes. Couple weeks. Tensley Almand — And and we got this email the night before the breakfast, and it was from a developer. And they were offering $14 million dollars for the piece of property that my office sits on, which is a widely underused piece of property… Rich Birch — Right. Tensley Almand — …that we’ve always kind of wrestled with, like, what do we do with this thing? Rich Birch — Right. Tensley Almand — $14 million dollars. Rich Birch — Yes. Tensley Almand — That’s almost our entire year’s budget. Rich Birch — Yes. Tensley Almand — And I remember showing up to this breakfast with this LOI and I asked the question, should we take it or should we not? Rich Birch — Right. Tensley Almand — And nobody could answer my question. Rich Birch — Wow. Wow. Tensley Almand — Nobody knew if it was a good idea to take $14 million dollars or to walk away from $14 million dollars Rich Birch — And if that group doesn’t know, nobody else in the organization is going to know, right? Tensley Almand — And that’s exactly what I said. I was like, if you don’t know, and I don’t know… Rich Birch — Yeah. Yes, exactly. Tensley Almand — …nobody knows. Rich Birch — Yes, yes, yes. Tensley Almand — And so I started with that small group and I said, hey, would you give me the freedom to to take however long it takes for us to make sure we can answer that question? Rich Birch — Yeah, that’s good. Tensley Almand — And so in our first board meeting, I raised my hand and I just said, hey guys, I know I’m new, I know I just started. But I shared the story and I said, hey, we have to be able to answer questions like this. Or we’re never going to get anywhere. We may do a lot of good things, but we are going to have no idea if we did the best thing. Rich Birch — Right, right. That’s good. That’s good. So kind of double clicking on that, continuing to kind of focus in on this. You know, there are churches, organizations that will do the strat plan or roll. We go away for the big retreat. We come up with the new value statements. It’s got great strategy on paper. But it doesn’t end up translating into practice. What are you doing at the mission to try to make sure that we’re going from that wasn’t just a great document that’s like in a nice book somewhere, but it’s actually rolling out. Maybe give us some examples of that. And what are those kind of rhythms, cadences, all that? How how are you making that happen? Tensley Almand — Yeah, it’s wish I could really tell you we’re crushing it in this area. It’s this is a new habit for us. Rich Birch — Sure. Sure. Good. Tensley Almand — And so we’re I’m four years in. We just finished our first full fiscal year under our new strategy. And so I can tell you what we’ve learned. Rich Birch — Hey, that’s good. Yeah, good. Tensley Almand — One, once you get it built you have to start small. We, I wish I could remember the exact number, I think as a senior team we committed and told our board we were going to do 392 new initiatives or something in year one, you know. Rich Birch — Wow. Right. Tensley Almand — And this is a seven-year plan… Rich Birch — Yes. Tensley Almand — …we’re like we got almost for it and I think we got 100 through of the 392. Rich Birch — Right. Tensley Almand — And we celebrated like crazy at the end of the year because it was like, that’s 100 things that were all in alignment that we’d never done before. We learned so much. So, start small. Tensley Almand — The other thing is we built our plan. And I was I was very intentional about this because of what you just said. I did not want another notebook that was going to sit on my shelf. And so our strategic plan is really a strategic roadmap. And what I have told our board, what I’ve told our staff is I want an organization that knows how to think. Rich Birch — That’s good. Tensley Almand — And our our plan is really a roadmap for how we should think. It’s not overly prescriptive in necessarily what that means. Because it’s it’s designed to take us all the way through 2030. Rich Birch — Right. Tensley Almand — Well, I have no idea what’s going to happen between now and 2030. Rich Birch — Right. Right. Tensley Almand — But I do know that if what we said we want to accomplish, we’re accomplishing, however that looks, by 2030, we’re on the right track. And so that would be the other thing is just like, I would build, I wouldn’t make it so prescriptive that it tells you like, Hey, next week you’re doing this. And the week after… It needs to teach the organization how to think, how to act so that the person who’s brand new on the front line, if I’m not in the room, they don’t need to spend any time going like what, what would Tensley want me to do? They just, this is who we are as an organization. It’s how we think. Tensley Almand — And then we at a senior level and then we pushed it all the way down to our organization. We built a meeting cadence around it. Rich Birch — Nice. Tensley Almand — And so we have our senior team meets once a week. Rich Birch — Yeah. Tensley Almand — That’s my six direct reports and plus my admin. Rich Birch — Yeah. Tensley Almand — And we, one, so we do that on Tuesday morning, one, the first Tuesday of the month is a strategy meeting. We talk all about the strategic plan. That’s like a, how how are you doing and your department doing towards what you said you were gonna do? Rich Birch — That’s good. Tensley Almand — And we have a dashboard to measure that against. And then the next Tuesday is an operations meeting. And it’s just like, hey, what are what are we working on? We can’t live at 50,000 feet all the time. Rich Birch — Right. Tensley Almand — Let’s get down to 1,000 feet or whatever it is. Rich Birch — Yeah. Tensley Almand — And so we have that operations cadence. And then the third meeting is kind of like a catch-all, like, hey, what you know what needs to happen? And then our last meeting of the month is a monthly ministry review with the entire, not just my direct reports, but all the managers that sit under my direct reports. Rich Birch — Oh, that’s cool. Tensley Almand — And they lead that meeting. I listen in that meeting. And I get to hear what’s happening at every campus, what’s going on. And I get to hear how people are implementing or not implementing the strategy. Rich Birch — Right. Tensley Almand — And then the very next meeting, if you’re keeping up, is then our strategy meeting. Rich Birch — Yes. Tensley Almand — So then I’m like, hey… Rich Birch — Here’s some stuff I heard. Tensley Almand — …tell me more about this. Rich Birch — Yeah. Yeah. Yes. Tensley Almand — Or I didn’t hear like, Hey, I thought we were working on this. Why is that not happening? And so we have dashboards. Rich Birch — Yeah, yeah. Tensley Almand — We’ve never had those before. We have data that we can follow. We have metrics we’ve identified as a, as a team, our wins. And so it’s like, Hey, how are we tracking towards those wins and just have created a layer of accountability that didn’t exist probably three years ago. Rich Birch — Yeah, that’s good. Let’s talk a little bit more about the data thing. I’ve, or data thing. We, I’ve, I’ve said with younger leaders, you know, spreadsheets are the language of leadership. Like you’re going to have to get used to this stuff. This is just… Tensley Almand — Yep. Rich Birch — …this is how we care for people at scale is, is that is what it looks like. So data can either inspire or intimidate. How do you track outcomes? How do you, how do you how have you seen, you know, data over this last year actually change behavior and move things, improve care, better outcomes, all that kind of stuff. Talk us through what, cause you know, what we measure can get, can, you know, steer us in the wrong direction or steer us in the right direction. Help, help us think through that. As we’re thinking about what numbers should we pay attention to? Tensley Almand — Yeah. So again, when I started, that was a big question I had. So if you were to look at our numbers, you would see that we serve, you know, let’s, these are rough, but right at about 3000 people a year come through our doors. Rich Birch — Okay. Tensley Almand — Right. Which is huge. Rich Birch — Yep. Tensley Almand — You’re like, man, that’s amazing. Well, then I, as I walk you through that, by the time you get to the end of our vocational training a year later, we may graduate like 400. And then 70% of those 400 are still doing well the the next year. And so, you know, on paper, you’re like, man, is that good? Rich Birch — Right. Yes. Tensley Almand — Like that, that there’s a lot of attrition there. Rich Birch — Right. Tensley Almand — Like should, is, is, are we fail… And that was, again, when I started, that was a question nobody could answer for me is, Hey, is that good? Rich Birch — Right. Tensley Almand — And so even backing up before we built our strategy, our senior team spent so much time defining our outcomes. And we had all of these statements, you know, but it was like we want somebody to be healthy vocationally. Tensley Almand — It’s like, okay, what does that mean? Crickets in the room. Rich Birch — Yes. Tensley Almand — Wait, if you don’t know what it means and I don’t know what it means, does the person who’s leading that program know what it means? Better question: does the person who’s receiving our services know if they’ve actually achieved help in that area? Tensley Almand — And so we went through, defined all of those terms so that there was a clear outcome to it… Rich Birch — Right. Tensley Almand — …so that we could then measure it. And then we built both a one-page dashboard that our senior team could look at at a high level. So I could I can open this dashboard on any Monday morning. It’s just in Tableau, so nothing super you know exciting. Rich Birch — Yep. Yep. Tensley Almand — And I can just see, i can see progression through our program. I can see healthy exits. We’ve defined what are healthy exits. I can see, ah you know, are people getting stuck? That was a big thing we were we were learning is like, people are just getting stuck in our program and we’re committing to somebody. You’re going to be at this phase of the program 30 days. Well, then they spend 60 days. Rich Birch — Right. Tensley Almand — And what we were finding. We were, so this, this probably long winded way of saying this, but what we, we didn’t know what was happening or why it was happening and it felt good. But you know, you’re like, I don’t know. Tensley Almand — And so what we were finding is it’s like, Hey, so that’s an example. Like, somebody gets stuck in our program. We promised them 30. It takes 60. All of a sudden, we were able to track that, hey, there’s a certain amount of fallout rate at this stage of the program. Why is that happening? Oh, people are stuck. They’ve been here too long. Rich Birch — Right. Tensley Almand — We got to fix that. And so it it enabled us to know what needed to be fixed and and not fixed. Rich Birch — Yeah, that’s good. Tensley Almand — And probably the the best real-time example of that is just recently. So I keep telling you the 70% number of graduates are successful. That’s kind of our historical data. Rich Birch — Yep. Yep. Tensley Almand — Well, this year, that number fell for the first time ever. It’s gotten better every year. Rich Birch — Wow. Tensley Almand — This year it fell and it fell like dramatically. And this is one of those I don’t like to talk about it because it doesn’t look good. Rich Birch — Interesting. Yes. Tensley Almand — I mean, like it fell down to almost like 45, 50 percent. Rich Birch — Oh, wow. Tensley Almand — You’re like, what’s happening? Rich Birch — Almost inverse. Yeah, yeah. Wow. Tensley Almand — Exactly. And so at first, you’re like, our program is no good. We got rewrite our program. Well, thankfully, we had been tracking all of the kind of whys and we understood what was happening in people’s lives. And what we have found out is no, like the economy shifted. You can’t get a job in 30 to 60 days anymore. Rich Birch — Interesting. Tensley Almand — And so a gate in our program is when you graduate, you have 60 days to get a job. If you don’t get a job, you can’t move into our transitional housing because if we just allow you to stay, beds back up and then more people can’t get in. Tensley Almand — Well, our clients then would stop taking our advice and stop waiting for a good job. And at day like 50, they would just go get that job that doesn’t pay well. Rich Birch — Ohhh. Tensley Almand — And they knew it wasn’t going to be a career builder job. It was just going to keep them sheltered. Rich Birch — Right, right. Tensley Almand — And so it was our our like metrics were actually driving a behavior we didn’t like. Rich Birch — That’s interesting. Tensley Almand — And so we’re in the process now of like, hey, we’ve got to change this. The length of time it takes to get a job now takes longer. and Rich Birch — Right. Tensley Almand — The job market’s more you know fierce right now. Rich Birch — Right. Tensley Almand — And so we don’t want nothing against these types of jobs. We don’t necessarily want our client leaving to go get a job at McDonald’s Rich Birch — Right. Tensley Almand — But for them, leaving it to go get a job at McDonald’s versus not having a place to stay, I’ll take the McDonald’s job… Rich Birch — Right. Yes. Tensley Almand — …even though I know I’m only going to be there three months. Rich Birch — Right. Right. Tensley Almand — And so it was throwing off all of our numbers and it’s because we were incorrectly driving a behavior that we don’t want to drive. So. Rich Birch — Wow. That’s cool. That’s a great, very vivid example. And there’s lots of that in the church world. I know you I know you know that. There was a church I was doing some work with last year, large church, 10,000-person church. And they were we were talking one of the numbers I obsess with my clients over is documented first-time guests, the actual number of people that come every single weekend. And I was convinced that this church was just was missing a whole bunch of first time guests. And so they were telling me about how great their, their, their assimilation numbers were. They were like, Oh, this is so great. And I was like, I just don’t believe it. I’m like, because, because if you are not capturing the number of, of documented first time guests, then yeah and you’re comparing against half of what you probably actually have coming into your church, then then every number be below that, all your integration stuff looks twice as good as it actually is. Tensley Almand — Yeah. Rich Birch — And you know that that happens in lots of places across our numbers. We’ve got to get real clear and benchmark against other people. Tensley Almand — If I could go back and if I could go back, no, no, it’s just, like I’ve often thought like, what would I do different if I was a church leader now? Rich Birch — Yeah, yeah, yeah. That’s a good question. Tensley Almand — And I would I would measure so much differently. Rich Birch — Yeah, interesting. Tensley Almand — You know, historically we’ve measured nickels and noses, right? Like how much money’s coming in and how many people are sitting in the pews. But it’s like, those are important. Rich Birch — Yeah. Tensley Almand — I wouldn’t stop measuring them, but I would pay attention to like this. I would try to find a way to measure progression, you know. Rich Birch — Yes, 100%. Tensley Almand — It’s like to your point how many first-time guests are you having okay well then of those first-time guests how many of them are actually moving to your small groups. Rich Birch — Yeah, 100%. Tensley Almand — Of those who moved your small groups do any of them ever volunteer like and and really understand the behaviors you want. And then measure to those behaviors and i think especially in a world where just church attendance looks so much so much different, we could gauge health of our churches so much more effectively if we were Rich Birch — Yeah, it’s so true. I’d love to I’d love to kind of pivot for a few minutes in a slightly different direction. Tensley Almand — Okay. Rich Birch — So we have a lot of church leaders that are listening in and I’d love to understand how Atlanta Mission partners with churches. What does that look like? How do you work together? So specifically at Atlanta misha, and then what would you, Mission, and then what would you say to churches in general? Hey, um what advice would you give now that you’re on this side of the equation of actually partnering with an organization like Atlanta Mission? How can you be kind of the best partner? How do we what are what are people on your side of the table actually looking for from a church like ours? Because I’m sure there’s all kinds of stories of like, yeah, that didn’t work well. Talk us through what that looks like, partnerships specifically, and then kind of in general, how can we be better at that? Tensley Almand — Yeah, and partnership is one of our pillars of our strategic plan. I think I think for nonprofits, especially when you’re large and you’re self-funded, you can it’s easy to get siloed. And we we fell into that category, not just with outside partners that wanted to come in and help us, but also with other service providers across the the, you know, continuum of care in our city. is It’s just it’s easy to kind of put your head down and do your own thing. Rich Birch — Right. Tensley Almand — And so this is a huge emphasis for us, mainly because it’s really woven into the vision of our organization. Our organization is a community that’s united to end homelessness one person at a time. Well, I mean, it’s like partnership has to be built into that. Rich Birch — Right. Yes, baked into it. Yeah. Tensley Almand — So what who are we to then go get siloed? Like, that’s like, wow, you can’t even accomplish what you said you wanted to do. And so um we… I’ll back into this answer by telling you one of the things we’ve discovered at Atlanta Mission is that this isn’t this, you know, this isn’t novel, but, you know, material poverty, we all know is debilitating. Relational poverty is just as debilitating as material poverty. Rich Birch — That’s so true. Tensley Almand — And what we find with our clients is that almost 100 percent obviously are struggling with some version of material poverty, but they are just relationally broken and poor. They are void of healthy relationships. And so this is this is so much where partnership comes in, because we we literally have a metric that we track of how many healthy contacts does a client have in their phone before they graduate our program. And what we were finding is I mean we were their only healthy contact. Rich Birch — Oh, wow. Tensley Almand — And it’s wait this is this is not good. And this is such a great place for churches to partner with us because we have so many opportunities that we just call we call them “be with” opportunities there’s like there’s “do for” service projects but there’s also “be with” service projects. And they’re just designed for you to establish healthy community with our clients, build relationships, throw a birthday party for somebody… Rich Birch — That’s so good. Right. Tensley Almand — …have a Christmas party at one of our shelters. Come, you know, we’re moving into the holiday season, you know, come and build gingerbread houses together with our kids who are staying with us and just create an hour in somebody’s life that’s normal. Rich Birch — Right. Tensley Almand — And I feel like churches are better at this than anybody. Our corporate partners are fantastic at the “do for” projects. They can then come in and beautify our campuses in 30 minutes in a way that none of us can. Rich Birch — Right. Tensley Almand — You know, Home Depot comes in and it’s like, we’re going to transform your landscape. Great. This is awesome. Rich Birch — Yeah, yeah. Tensley Almand — I love it. But a church can come in and just be authentic and be real and be with our clients. Rich Birch — That’s good. Tensley Almand — And you would be amazed at how different somebody’s life looks after just that hour. And so, and I think that’s a huge thing. And then what I would tell churches, I think even as a church leader, I I probably overlooked how vital we were to nonprofits. You just you know, you think it’s an hour, but you know, even the day of, you know, you wake up that morning and you’re like, they don’t really need me. Like, I don’t know. Rich Birch — Right. Tensley Almand — This is, am I not really going to make a difference? Yes, you are. Rich Birch — That’s good. Tensley Almand — You are going to make a huge difference. It is worth the hour. It is worth the drive. Tensley Almand — And we we tell people all the time, and I’ve seen this in my own life. The thing that happens at Atlanta Mission is there’s always two stories of transformation happening. There’s the story of transformation that’s happening in a client’s life. But God transforms my life every day. Rich Birch — That’s so true. Tensley Almand — And it’s that’s the part I didn’t expect, Rich, is that… Rich Birch — Right. Tensley Almand — …my life is being changed as much as anybody else’s. And so I would, I would tell a church, Hey, our clients need you. But you need this as well. Rich Birch — Yes. Yeah. Yeah. Tensley Almand — Like God’s going to do something in your life. Tensley Almand — And then the other is just, um I think, especially for really big churches, it’s easy to think like, I bet they need my expertise. It’s like, actually, that’s not like. We need your partnership. Rich Birch — Yes. Yes. Tensley Almand — You know, we, we know how to do this. Come put wind in our sails. Rich Birch — Yeah. Yeah, Tensley Almand — Come just serve, be a part of what we’re doing. Rich Birch — Yeah, it’s so good. That’s super helpful. Love love that. Well, just as we’re coming to land, any kind of final words or encouragement you’d you’d say to church leaders that are listening in today that are, you know, wrestling with maybe clarity or wrestling with some of the stuff we’ve talked about today? This has been a really fruitful conversation. Thank you for it. Tensley Almand — Yeah, I think the, you know, probably the biggest thing I would say, and I have to tell myself this all the time. I mean, I’m an entrepreneurial type A. I’m going to like, you know, go conquer the world in a day is that, you know, remind yourself, you know, more than likely what you can accomplish in 90 days is nowhere near what you think it is, you know. But what you can accomplish in a year or two years is probably way more than you ever imagined you could. Rich Birch — Right. So true Yeah, that’s good. Tensley Almand — And so just again, kind of back to the strategy thing, it takes time. It’s messy. You know, you’re going to feel like, is this worth it? It creates conflict on your team. It feels uncomfortable. We were, we were joking as a senior team the other day. There was, it was about a year where I just, every Tuesday morning, I thought I want to cancel this meeting because I just didn’t enjoy, like we were just, we were at conflict because we were… Rich Birch — Right. Yes. Tensley Almand — …hashing out who we are and why we exist and what are we going to do and why are we going to do it? Rich Birch — Yes. Tensley Almand — But now it’s my favorite hour of the week. Like, I just love it. And so, you know, I would say that… Rich Birch — That’s good. Tensley Almand — …you know, and I think, yeah, I don’t know that I have anything, you know, much more. Rich Birch — That’s good. Tensley Almand — Yeah. Rich Birch — No, that’s good. Well, I really appreciate being on the show today. Where do we want to send people if they want to connect with you or with Atlanta Mission? Where are the best places for us to send people online? Tensley Almand — Probably the easiest place is just our website, atlantamission.org. You can find everything you want to about us. If you want to know more, you can email info@atlantamission.org. And that actually goes right to my assistant and we’ll get you connected to the right person. And you can, you know, next time you’re in town, you partner with us. You can help us. You can be happy to give you a tour, show you what we do. Rich Birch — That’s great. Thanks so much, Tensley. Appreciate you being here today. Tensley Almand — Thanks.

Hear from our students and adult leaders who served with 7 Bridges to Recovery this past week!

In this episode, Jensen talks about how the work varies significantly from area to area in the Georgia Atlanta Mission, and shares a story about how the Spirit guided him and his companion to teach their friend Kathy exactly what she needed to hear. Full video now streaming on YouTube!: https://m.youtube.com/channel/UCpf3U591GeA3IA0F0ypQTrw

Jared Belsky is “living his dream job.” He is CEO and Co-founder of Acadia, an Atlanta-based digital marketing agency. He launched the company in 2021 with co-founder Sean Belnick, and hasn't looked back. Acadia serves mid-market companies including brands such as Red Roof Inn, Message Envy and Atlanta Mission. In the past two years, the company has seen its employee count grow from zero to more than 200.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Let's talk addiction, empathy, prosocial activities, relational resources, and being parental with licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor, Jolene Dalluhn! Jolene is the co-founder and Executive Director of Quest Counseling. Quest brings hope, recovery, and healing to our community by providing comprehensive, caring, and quality behavioral health treatment to each person and family seeking services. Learn more about Quest Counseling and their many treatment services at https://www.questreno.com/ Additional links from the episode: -Solace Tree's episode of Hope, NV: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5lCsaet5wQCeLWhymDrqUH?si=b88ec84d087646d9 -Jennifer Garner on why her teens aren't on social media: https://youtu.be/QZb8BLek1S8 -Jeff Foxworthy at North Point Community Church, talking about his experience at the Atlanta Mission (starts around 15:20): https://youtu.be/UZiHJ5wWkvU

Benjamin Wills is the Founder and Head of School of Peace Preparatory Academy, a Christ-centered, independent, community school. Located in English Avenue, the heart of one of Atlanta's most under-resourced communities, Peace Prep exists to educate whole children, support whole families, and provide growth and change opportunities for whole communities. He has a life-mission of following Jesus in advocating for those who have been marginalized to experience human flourishing, particularly children and families. He currently serves on the board of The Atlanta Mission, The Good Samaritan Health Center, and OaksATL Community Development and has served on a variety of visioning teams on the westside of Atlanta over the last several years. In addition to community advocacy work, he is an ordained Priest serving in the diocese Churches for the Sake of Others.  He and his wife embody their vision as they stand in the gap of advocating for children by opening their home as foster and adoptive parents. They currently live in English Avenue with their 5 children. OaksATLChasing What Matters Instagram

Hundreds of Gwinnett County kids had gifts to unwrap on Christmas morning because of one of the county's most famous sons. Rapper Offset, a Gwinnett native who rose to international fame as a member of Migos, held his first-ever toy giveaway at Central Baptist Church in Lawrenceville on Friday. This is the first Christmas since Offset's cousin and fellow Migos member, Takeoff, was killed in Houston nearly two months ago. The Toys For Nawf event offered kids a chance to get plenty of gifts, ranging from bikes and remote control cars to dolls and toy dinosaurs. Kids also got to play games, enjoy hot chocolate and other snacks and play in an inflatable obstacle course. Offset's efforts to help families enjoy Christmas did not go unnoticed by local leaders. Lawrenceville and Gwinnett County leaders presented proclamations to Offset, whose birth name is Kiari Cephus. A proclamation from the city of Atlanta was also presented to him. “(Migos) are our favorite sons,” county commission Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson said. “They put Gwinnett County on the map, and when they talk about the ‘NAWF side,' they're talking about the suburbs of Gwinnett County. They're not talking about Atlanta. They're talking about Gwinnett. Several organizations, including Central Baptist Church, Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity and the Lawrenceville Boys and Girls Club, along with local government officials partnered with Offset to stage the event. On behalf of Georgia's 3,500 cotton farming families, the Georgia Cotton Commission recently donated 12,000 pairs of socks to various homeless shelters across the state. Farmers delivered socks to the Albany Rescue Mission, the Friends Ministry in Bainbridge, Lowndes Associated Ministries to People in Valdosta, the Southwest Georgia Housing Opportunities in Columbus, The Sparrow's Nest in Athens, Cedartown United Fund, the Rescue Mission of Middle Georgia in Macon, the Atlanta Mission, the CSRA Economic Opportunity Authority in Augusta, Fair Haven in Jesup, and the Homeless Authority in Savannah. The Georgia Cotton Commission is a producer-funded organization located in Perry. The commission began in 1965. Georgia cotton producers pay an assessment enabling the commission to invest in programs of research, promotion, and education on behalf of all cotton producers of Georgia. Eight boys basketball teams head to Buford City Arena this week for the inaugural Buford Classic. Half of the field is made up of Gwinnett teams with the host Wolves being joined by Archer, Shiloh and South Gwinnett. Carrollton, Sequoyah, Walnut Grove and West Forsyth also are in the field. Shiloh opens Wednesday's first round with a matchup against Sequoyah, followed by Archer (8-2, No. 8 in Class AAAAAAA) against West Forsyth at 4:30 p.m. The two late games Wednesday feature South (8-2) vs. Carrollton (9-1, No. 10 in AAAAAAA) at 6 p.m., and Buford (6-3) against Walnut Grove at 7:30 p.m. Play continues with four games Thursday — semifinals are 6 and 7:30 p.m. — followed by four more games Friday, highlighted by the 7:30 p.m. championship game. Gwinnett County officials are planning to seek federal grant funding to find a new way to reduce the amount of biosolids coming out of the F. Wayne Hill Water Resources Center by turning them into fertilizer. The Gwinnett County Department of Water Resources is applying for a $21.25 million grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Fertilizer Production Expansion Program. County officials plan to use the grant funds, if they are approved to receive it, to purchase a biosolids dryer for the water resources center, which treats and cleans wastewater before returning it to the county's water source, Lake Lanier. The center has done work in the past to extract as much waste as possible to be converted into other uses. The biosolids dryer would be used to convert biosolid waste to fertilizer instead of sending it to landfills. County officials said, in addition to buying the dryer, they will use the grant funds to develop a marketing plan to sell the fertilizer.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Canton man has been sentenced to 25 years in prison in two separate cases after he was convicted of charges including rape, involuntary manslaughter, trafficking fentanyl and aggravated assault, the Cherokee County District Attorney's office announced. Nicholas Brian Gosnell, 23, pled guilty and was sentenced August 23, in total, to 25 years in prison, followed by life on probation, for two separate cases involving multiple crimes and three different victims. During the hearing, Gosnell admitted to charges of rape, involuntary manslaughter, violation of Georgia Controlled Substances Act (6 counts), trafficking fentanyl, and aggravated assault/strangulation. According to the district attorney's office, in July 2018, Cherokee Sheriff's Office deputies began investigating a drug-facilitated sexual assault. On the evening of the assault, Gosnell gave a young woman illegal drugs and later forced more intoxicants on her before raping her, prosecutors said. After an investigation that included a sexual assault exam, forensic extractions, DNA testing, and witness interviews, CSO deputies arrested Gosnell for rape. In September 2020, the Cherokee Multi-Agency Narcotics Squad received information that Gosnell, who had been released on bond over the state's objection, was selling narcotics. After CMANS initiated an investigation, undercover agents purchased drugs from Gosnell, which field-tested positive for fentanyl. A search warrant at Gosnell's home resulted in CMANS finding 36 oxycodone pills, fentanyl patches, 224 alprazolam pills, other pills, and $28,000 in cash. When agents forensically examined Gosnell's cell phone, they found texts from John O'Connell, 40, who had consumed drugs containing fentanyl and died on Aug. 19, 2020. O'Connell's death had previously been ruled an accidental overdose, but after reviewing these texts, CMANS began investigating this death as a homicide. A father and daughter from Canton were killed in a crash on Knox Bridge Highway Thursday, the Cherokee Sheriff's Office reported. According to the sheriff's office, deputies were dispatched to a four-vehicle crash at about 11:30 a.m. Thursday on Knox Bridge Highway near Scott Hudgens Drive in Canton. The crash is still under investigation, but according to the sheriff's office preliminary indications are that a Ford F150 truck traveling east crossed the center line and struck a Nissan Armada traveling west. A man who was driving the Armada and his daughter who was in the back seat were killed, authorities said. His wife and juvenile daughter were transported to Wellstar Kennestone Hospital with non-life threatening injuries. The father and daughter were Chris Mynes, 52, and Alivia Mynes, 18, of Canton, the sheriff's office reported Friday.  The driver of the F-150, a 24-year-old from Canton, was also transported to Wellstar Kennestone Hospital with non life threatening injuries. No other injuries were reported. A grand jury has formally charged a Woodstock man with armed robbery after authorities say he held another man at gunpoint and stole his money. According to his indictment filed November 14, Oswaldo Ruiz-Garcia, 24, is charged with two counts of armed robbery, four counts of aggravated assault and two counts of possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony. Per his arrest warrant filed August 19 by the Woodstock Police Department, he is charged with holding a man at gunpoint and stealing $200 and a wallet from him between 10:10 and 10:20 p.m. August 19. Last Wednesday, he was in the Cherokee County jail without bond. He has an arraignment scheduled December 9, according to court documents. An indictment is a formal charge of felony offenses, and defendants are assumed innocent until proven guilty.   Cherokee Thanksgiving gave about 2,400 meals Thursday to families in Cherokee and Pickens County, an organizer of the event said. La Catrina Tacos & Margaritas was the host for the event this year. Restaurant staff from both La Catrina and Williamson Bros. Bar-B-Q in Canton prepared the meals and volunteers assembled them and sent them out for delivery. This year's event was originally planned to be held from Williamson Bros. Bar-B-Q in Canton, which has helped provide food in the past, but moved to La Catrina after a fire shut down the restaurant earlier this month. The Cherokee Thanksgiving meal this year was chicken, rice, green beans, dressing and gravy, a roll and a sugar cookie. Additional trays of chicken rice green beans rolls and cookies were donated to Atlanta Mission for the homeless. Over 200 volunteers contributed to the effort, now in its 30th year, Cherokee Thanksgiving coordinator Cheryl Mosley said. "A huge shout out and thank you to La Catrina restaurant in Canton for hosting us this year. In addition to providing meals old friendships were renewed and new friendships were made among the volunteers," she said The Rotary Club of Woodstock recently served a homemade Thanksgiving feast to residents of Colbert Square Senior Housing. The annual Thanksgiving dinner is a longtime favorite tradition for the club. To connect with the club or for more information visit their Facebook page. Cherokee County nonprofits and other charities across the state are participating in GA Gives on Giving Tuesday, which is today. Held the Tuesday following Thanksgiving, Giving Tuesday is an international day of giving to follow the traditional shopping days of Black Friday and Cyber Monday. GA Gives, hosted by the Georgia Center for Nonprofits, invites people to donate to their favorite charities in the state through their website, GAgives.org. The platform is free to nonprofits, and they can use it year-round to raise funds through custom profile pages. Participating Cherokee County organizations include Cherokee Theatre Company, Reeling in Recovery and Service League of Cherokee County Georgia. Last year's GA Gives on GivingTuesday campaign helped raise a total of $27,147,800 for Georgia nonprofits through more than 180,000 donations. Since its founding in 2012, the GA Gives movement has rallied over 556,000 individual contributions and raised more than $90 million for the nonprofits working to create positive and lasting change throughout Georgia. #CherokeeCounty #Georgia #LocalNews           -          -          -          -          -          -          The Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast is local news for Woodstock, Canton, and all of Cherokee County. Register Here for your essential digital news.             This podcast was produced and published for the Cherokee Tribune-Ledger and TribuneLedgerNews.com by BG Ad Group     For more information be sure to visit https://www.bgpodcastnetwork.com/    https://cuofga.org/   https://www.drakerealty.com/   https://www.esogrepair.com/       See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lydia, Sully, Jeremy, and Mary Helen share their reflections from the Middle School Atlanta Mission Trip. Join us as we discuss how to find God in the unknown, share some laughs, and grow together in our faith.

In this episode, Sheila and Ericka enjoy a lively discussion with Chef Alex Reethof, Owner of Reetof Hospitality and Founder of Gathering Industries. Alex Reethof, “ChefTainer," has worked in and around the Hotel and Restaurant industry since 1974.  He started at age 16 as a “pot washer” (which is even one step below a dishwasher) before working his way up to Chef at top fine dining restaurants from Seattle to Sarasota. ADVERTISE WITH US Gathering Industries is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that strives to end homelessness in Atlanta by helping the homeless help themselves. Through training and management skills programs, Gathering Industries educates homeless individuals in the culinary field to help them find sustainable employment and a way out of homelessness. In collaboration with a host of Atlanta restaurants and the Atlanta Mission, Gathering Industries works to give a hand up, not a hand out. We are a Christian-based organization that focuses on spreading the love of God and the compassion of others to those in need. BE A PODCAST GUEST While our vision is to help end homelessness one job at a time, we view every interaction with a homeless individual and an opportunity to inspire hope and encourage change in that person's life. Each member of our team works hard to convey the kindness of Christ and makes sure to help every individual feel welcomed and loved. Connect with Chef Alex: Reethof Hospitality alex@reethof.com 770-363-1468 c www.reethofhospitality.com FB: Chef Alex Reethof Twitter: ChefAlexReethof http://www.youtube.com/user/ChefAlexReethof/videos Do you have a question or comment for Chef Alex, Sheila or Ericka? Please contact us. Thank you!

https://atlantamission.org/james-barrell/ (James Barrell), Chief Information Officer, has been with Atlanta Mission since 2017. As technology is increasingly leveraged in the work we do, James strives to ensure that technology systems enhance collaboration and efficiency. He has a passion for serving and encouraging growth in those around him. On today's show, host Adam Walker talks to James about his work at Atlanta Mission, how TechBridge and Atlanta Mission work together to innovate, and how technology can help improve individual care.

Typically emergency shelter consists of inviting someone in during the afternoon, giving them a place to stay and a meal, and then releasing them back on the streets the following morning.  We examine this model and how some missions, including ours, are changing to create greater healing and restoration among emergency shelter guests by creating pathways into residential programs (also referred to as res). We'll also look into how collaboration and choice can become powerful mechanisms for life change as someone comes out of homelessness.  Jim Reese, President and CEO of Atlanta Mission, and Luis Rodriguez, Water Street's Assistant VP of Programs, join us for this profound conversation.

​​Kerry Mallory is the Managing Director for the Eastern U.S. region of Ronald Blue Trust. As Managing Director, Kerry is responsible for the client service, growth, and expansion of the company's offices across the Eastern U.S. region. This includes providing leadership and oversight of offices in Atlanta, Georgia; Baltimore, Maryland; Charlotte, North Carolina; Greenville, South Carolina; Montgomery, Alabama; and Orlando, Florida. In addition to his leadership role, Kerry serves as an experienced wealth advisor to individuals, families, and businesses. He uses his objective perspective to help clients make wise financial decisions to experience clarity and confidence and leave a lasting legacy. Kerry and his team integrate financial planning, investment management, and trust services into financial plans tailored to his clients' needs. Prior to joining Ronald Blue Trust, Kerry worked with Regions Bank for 15 years. Most recently he was the Senior Vice President of Private Wealth Management serving as the manager for Georgia and South Carolina. Previously he worked with Bain & Company as a Management Consultant in Sydney, Australia. Kerry graduated cum laude from Birmingham-Southern College with his BS in Business Administration. He also earned an MBA from the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania. Active in his community, Kerry served as Chairman of the Board of Directors at Providence Christian Academy for five years. He is a member of the Marietta C12 CEO Peer Advisory Group and is a Business Leadership Group member at Fellowship of Companies for Christ International. He also leads a men's small group at his local church. He and his team are the planned giving partners for Atlanta Mission. In the past, he has served on several boards including the River Region United Way, the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, and the Montgomery Zoo. In addition, he has been an effective fundraiser and volunteer for the American Heart Association, the Arthritis Foundation, and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He and his wife, Brook, have been married 25 years and live in Atlanta with their two children. In his free time, Kerry enjoys reading, hunting, and scuba diving.   Kerry shares why it's important to... Place your trust in God, not riches Spend less than you earn Have a spending plan Live generously Save for the unexpected   Follow / Learn More Follow Kerry on LinkedIn Email Kerry at kerry.mallory@ronblue.com  Visit RonBlue.com   Follow Chat With Leaders on LinkedIn Learn About Our Community Partners B Local G Georgia: a collection of for-profit companies each dedicated to creating a future where businesses operate as a positive influence on society Inspiredu: Nonprofit Leaders Bridging The Digital Divide AppBarry: Custom Web And Mobile Application Development Classic City Consulting: WordPress Website Development Stratfield Consulting: Consulting, Staffing, Recruiting See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode you will hear:   (09:08) In this week’s news segment, an article from New York Times “Supreme Court Seems Ready to Back Payments to Student-Athletes”, by Adam Liptak. Justices across the ideological spectrum teamed up during  to voice skepticism about the ’s position that it could bar relatively modest payments to student-athletes in the name of amateurism despite the antitrust laws. But some of the same justices also seemed worried about opening the floodgates to further challenges.     (27:15) We’re in final chapter of 171 Answers – how to develop character that withstands life’s storms. Mark and Anika discuss some key qualities that differentiate those who have significant positive impact in their careers versus those who are average. Mark closes the final chapter in his book with a real focus on character.   (50:04) This week’s question is from an anonymous student from Illinois. What is more important AP grades or AP scores? This question is so layered but Mark attempts to unpack it.   (01:06:28) Mark continues his interview with Mark Kantrowitz -The New Simplified FAFSA – Part 3 of 4   (01:13:55) Recommended resource: The College Conversation: A Practical Companion for Parents to Guide Their Children Along the Path to Higher Education, Eric Furda and Jacques Steinberg, Eric’s insights he draws on from his time as an admission Dean at the University of Pennsylvania are invaluable.    Next College spotlight: Clemson on 5/13   Don't forget to send your questions related to any and every facet of the college process to: . Music is by SENA HERO/Victor-Alan Weeks. If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful! To access and best utilize the transcripts of each podcast, please do the following: Go to  Click the Transcripts tab, from the top menu by the Episodes tab Click on the transcript for the specific episode you are interested in, just click on the image or by the word “Transcript” You will see a Share icon, a download option, a link to Apple podcast and you will see a magnifying glass Use the magnifying glass to search for any word. If that word was used in the episode, it will show up, highlighted in yellow. You will also see a timestamp so you can see the exact minute and second this word was spoken. If you click the word highlighted in yellow, the podcast player will start playing right at that word. You can stop it from playing by clicking the pause button.  Note: The transcription accuracy is about 90%, so you will see some spelling errors and errors in translation going from voice to print. We are excited to give our listeners a chance to play a role in shaping what topics we discuss, so please send us your ideas for college spotlights, articles for discussion and recommended resources. You can let your voice be heard by completing this survey. Just put the following link in your browser and give us your honest feedback. We thank you in advance. Every episode of Your College-Bound Kid will align with a chapter from the book 171 Answers to the Most-Asked College Admission Questions. To get a copy go to Amazon and click:   If you want to place a bulk order, you will save money by purchasing this book at 171answers.com. Every penny goes to The Atlanta Mission, a Christian organization that helps over 1000 homeless residents every day.  If you want to see what future episodes will discuss in the book chapter section,  just go to 171answers.com and then click the red button "See exactly what 171 Answers covers"

In this episode you will hear:   (09:09) In this week’s news segment, an article from College Transitions “Is There a Bias Against Asian College Applicants”. As an Asian teenager, or parent of one, you’ve likely heard that Asian students are at a disadvantage in the admissions process at elite American colleges and universities. As a first order of business, this article explores whether that this belief is, in fact, true.     (38:22) We’re in chapter 170 of 171 Answers – how to avoid common financial pitfalls   (51:16) Bonus content: What is the enrollment funnel and how it impacts your student   (01:17:38) Mark continues his interview with Mark Kantrowitz -The New Simplified FAFSA – Part 2 of 4   (01:26:24) Recommended resource: The State of College Admissions, a  NACAC annual report   (01:37:38) College Spotlight: DePaul  University, Chicago (https://www.depaul.edu/Pages/default.aspx)   Don't forget to send your questions related to any and every facet of the college process to: . Music is by SENA HERO/Victor-Alan Weeks. If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful! To access and best utilize the transcripts of each podcast, please do the following: Go to  Click the Transcripts tab, from the top menu by the Episodes tab Click on the transcript for the specific episode you are interested in, just click on the image or by the word “Transcript” You will see a Share icon, a download option, a link to Apple podcast and you will see a magnifying glass Use the magnifying glass to search for any word. If that word was used in the episode, it will show up, highlighted in yellow. You will also see a timestamp so you can see the exact minute and second this word was spoken. If you click the word highlighted in yellow, the podcast player will start playing right at that word. You can stop it from playing by clicking the pause button.  Note: The transcription accuracy is about 90%, so you will see some spelling errors and errors in translation going from voice to print. We are excited to give our listeners a chance to play a role in shaping what topics we discuss, so please send us your ideas for college spotlights, articles for discussion and recommended resources. You can let your voice be heard by completing this survey. Just put the following link in your browser and give us your honest feedback. We thank you in advance. Every episode of Your College-Bound Kid will align with a chapter from the book 171 Answers to the Most-Asked College Admission Questions. To get a copy go to Amazon and click: If you want to place a bulk order, you will save money by purchasing this book at 171answers.com. Every penny goes to The Atlanta Mission, a Christian organization that helps over 1000 homeless residents every day.  If you want to see what future episodes will discuss in the book chapter section,  just go to 171answers.com and then click the red button "See exactly what 171 Answers covers"

In this episode you will hear:   (15:25) In this week’s news segment, an article from The Hechinger Report “Poll Nearly half of parents don’t want their kids to go straight to a four-year college”, by Jill Barshay. Fewer American parents are dreaming of sending their kids off to a four-year college immediately after they graduate from high school, signaling both a deepening political divide over the value of higher education and a shift in public sentiment toward career training.     (44:30) We’re in chapter 169 of 171 Answers – why it is important to utilize your advisor and their knowledge.   (58:04) Jennifer from Oklahoma wants to know how her son’s limited time that is dedicated to football will look to admissions officers, even though he is not interested in playing at the college level.   (01:17:47) Mark kicks off his interview with Mark Kantrowitz -The New Simplified FAFSA – Part 1 of 4   (01:28:58) Recommended resource: Mark’s favorite book if you want a comprehensive book to cover all things money related with paying for college: Paying for College, 2021: Everything You Need to Maximize Financial Aid and Afford College   No College Spotlight this week   Don't forget to send your questions related to any and every facet of the college process to: . Music is by SENA HERO/Victor-Alan Weeks. If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful! To access and best utilize the transcripts of each podcast, please do the following: Go to  Click the Transcripts tab, from the top menu by the Episodes tab Click on the transcript for the specific episode you are interested in, just click on the image or by the word “Transcript” You will see a Share icon, a download option, a link to Apple podcast and you will see a magnifying glass Use the magnifying glass to search for any word. If that word was used in the episode, it will show up, highlighted in yellow. You will also see a timestamp so you can see the exact minute and second this word was spoken. If you click the word highlighted in yellow, the podcast player will start playing right at that word. You can stop it from playing by clicking the pause button.  Note: The transcription accuracy is about 90%, so you will see some spelling errors and errors in translation going from voice to print. We are excited to give our listeners a chance to play a role in shaping what topics we discuss, so please send us your ideas for college spotlights, articles for discussion and recommended resources. You can let your voice be heard by completing this survey. Just put the following link in your browser and give us your honest feedback. We thank you in advance. Every episode of Your College-Bound Kid will align with a chapter from the book 171 Answers to the Most-Asked College Admission Questions. To get a copy go to Amazon and click:   If you want to place a bulk order, you will save money by purchasing this book at 171answers.com. Every penny goes to The Atlanta Mission, a Christian organization that helps over 1000 homeless residents every day.  If you want to see what future episodes will discuss in the book chapter section,  just go to 171answers.com and then click the red button "See exactly what 171 Answers covers"  

In this episode you will hear:     (10:01) In this week’s news segment, an article from Inside Higher Ed “Do Top Colleges Favor Applicants Who Are Extremely Wealthy” by Scott Jaschik. Article reports that 29 percent of students at Brown and Dartmouth are from private high schools. Other Ivies are also high. Is this the way colleges should admit students? Mark and Dave have a real nuanced discussion about this article. What they say may surprise you.     (42:43) We’re in chapter 168 of 171 Answers – why students should be careful when changing colleges. Mark shares when it is a good idea to transfer and when it is a bad idea to transfer.   (59:12) This week’s question is from Allison in Ohio and she wants to know how admission offices review twins in the college admissions process. Mark shares the various approaches that college admissions offices take to twins and triplets. Mark shares what the elephant is in the room any time twins apply.   (01:11:49) Mark wraps up his interview with Julia Hutchinson a high school senior from Wisconsin - A creative approach to learning what the students are like at the colleges on your list (Part 3 of 3)   (01:22:07) Recommended resource: Transferology makes transferring easy. It helps you know whether your credits will count at the schools you are considering transferring to. Mark strongly recommends any transfer student utilize this website.   (01:29:48) College spotlight: Baylor University ()   Mark has a big announcement about a new approach the podcast will take beginning on episode 172 and Mark also introduces what he is calling, “The Big number”   Don't forget to send your questions related to any and every facet of the college process to: . Music is by SENA HERO/Victor-Alan Weeks. If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful! To access and best utilize the transcripts of each podcast, please do the following: Go to  Click the Transcripts tab, from the top menu by the Episodes tab Click on the transcript for the specific episode you are interested in, just click on the image or by the word “Transcript” You will see a Share icon, a download option, a link to Apple podcast and you will see a magnifying glass Use the magnifying glass to search for any word. If that word was used in the episode, it will show up, highlighted in yellow. You will also see a timestamp so you can see the exact minute and second this word was spoken. If you click the word highlighted in yellow, the podcast player will start playing right at that word. You can stop it from playing by clicking the pause button.  Note: The transcription accuracy is about 90%, so you will see some spelling errors and errors in translation going from voice to print. We are excited to give our listeners a chance to play a role in shaping what topics we discuss, so please send us your ideas for college spotlights, articles for discussion and recommended resources. You can let your voice be heard by completing this survey. Just put the following link in your browser and give us your honest feedback. We thank you in advance. Every episode of Your College-Bound Kid will align with a chapter from the book 171 Answers to the Most-Asked College Admission Questions. To get a copy go to Amazon and click:   If you want to place a bulk order, you will save money by purchasing this book at 171answers.com. Every penny goes to The Atlanta Mission, a Christian organization that helps over 1000 homeless residents every day.  If you want to see what future episodes will discuss in the book chapter section,  just go to 171answers.com and then click the red button "See exactly what 171 Answers covers"

In this episode you will hear:   (08:17) In this week’s news segment, an article from Education Next “Yes, It Really Is Harder to Get into Highly Selective Colleges Today” by Michael Petrilli. The conventional wisdom is that it’s now much harder to be accepted into highly selective colleges and universities than it was a generation ago. According to the median SAT scores of most of the 100 top national universities and 50 top liberal arts colleges (as determined by the 2020 US News and World Report college rankings) – by measure - scores for the most selective institutions have risen significantly over the past generation. Meaning, it really is harder to get into such schools today than thirty years ago. Mark and Dave discuss this and they talk about what are the implications of this.     (33:23) We’re in chapter 167 of 171 Answers – how to tap into a college’s most valuable resources. Mark and Anika discuss many invaluable resources that can help students to graduate and have a great college experience, but often go neglected and even ignored.   (47:19) This week’s question asks about need-blind vs. need-aware admissions and if Mark truly believes if schools are need-blind as they claim. Mark divides the college universe into three groups based on the claims they make about need-based aid and meeting need. Mark then discusses whether the colleges in each grouping live up to their claims.   (01:23:42) Mark continues his interview with Julia Hutchinson a high school senior from Wisconsin - A creative approach to learning what the students are like at the colleges on your list (Part 2 of 3). If you want to know how to really understand how schools on your college list are different, this is an interview you will really benefit from listening to.    (01:33:08) Recommended resource: This is a new Amazon Prime TV show that takes 60 minutes per episode to tour various college campuses. You get introduced to about ten students who attend the college and you get to really learn a lot about each college. You also get to see the campus, just like on a real college tour.     Don't forget to send your questions related to any and every facet of the college process to: . Music is by SENA HERO/Victor-Alan Weeks. If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful! To access and best utilize the transcripts of each podcast, please do the following: Go to  Click the Transcripts tab, from the top menu by the Episodes tab Click on the transcript for the specific episode you are interested in, just click on the image or by the word “Transcript” You will see a Share icon, a download option, a link to Apple podcast and you will see a magnifying glass Use the magnifying glass to search for any word. If that word was used in the episode, it will show up, highlighted in yellow. You will also see a timestamp so you can see the exact minute and second this word was spoken. If you click the word highlighted in yellow, the podcast player will start playing right at that word. You can stop it from playing by clicking the pause button.  Note: The transcription accuracy is about 90%, so you will see some spelling errors and errors in translation going from voice to print. We are excited to give our listeners a chance to play a role in shaping what topics we discuss, so please send us your ideas for college spotlights, articles for discussion and recommended resources. You can let your voice be heard by completing this survey. Just put the following link in your browser and give us your honest feedback. We thank you in advance. Every episode of Your College-Bound Kid will align with a chapter from the book 171 Answers to the Most-Asked College Admission Questions. To get a copy go to Amazon and click:   If you want to place a bulk order, you will save money by purchasing this book at 171answers.com. Every penny goes to The Atlanta Mission, a Christian organization that helps over 1000 homeless residents every day.  If you want to see what future episodes will discuss in the book chapter section,  just go to 171answers.com and then click the red button "See exactly what 171 Answers covers"

In today’s episode, Angie Ulibarri joins Linda Yates as they talk about being charitable and how it helps make the community stronger.  Angie Ulibarri is a mother and wife. Her mother always engaged her in good works and grew up doing exactly that. She has an innate desire to help people in need.  She was 12 when her mother signed her up to be an American Red Cross volunteer.  She got very sick and felt sorry for herself. Her husband helped her get through the hard days and encouraged her. Volunteering, engaging in the community, and being charitable helped her change the course of her life.  In the later years, she became involved and engaged with organizations such as the Atlanta Mission of Homeless Shelter. The people are so gracious and their ability to accept the service is heartwarming. Giving back appreciation makes so much difference.  Where to start  Search for volunteer groups on Facebook. You can also search for volunteer opportunities on Google.  There are also some web apps and programs that are available out there that you can search for to start your charitable journey.   You can even start looking for volunteering works within your space - your neighbors, your church, or the community.  Remember that every nonprofit that uses volunteers has its own volunteer recruiting method. If you don’t make it to a particular group then look for another and try again.  Keeping the cup filled Getting enough sleep is important to keep doing whatever you’re doing.  It’s also important to look for things that you love and make sure that you spend some time doing all these things that you love and enjoy.  Women have the natural ability to nurture and help and we need an outlet to put these abilities to good use.  Angie’s biggest challenge was her fear but she was able to shut down the voice of fear in her head every single day.  When you find the organization or a volunteer group that you are interested in, you will naturally gravitate toward it.  It’s important to have faith that whatever you ask for will happen. Just keep doing what you’re doing and celebrate every milestone.  Surround yourself with like-minded people to inspire and empower you to keep doing what you’re doing.  Life will always have interruptions. Patience is critical to overcoming interruptions. “How Women Can Strengthen Their Communities Through Charitable Engagement” episode resources Connect and follow Angie Ulibarri via LinkedIn.  Do you have more stories to tell? Talk to Linda Yates here. This podcast is produced by TSE Studios. Check out other podcasts by the TSE Studios including The Sales Evangelist and more.  This episode is sponsored by The Sales Evangelist, helping new and struggling sellers close more deals and smash their quotas. Int-HER-rupt Podcast is produced by the team at TSE Studios,  If you haven’t already, please subscribe to the Int-HER-rupt Podcast so you won’t miss a single interview. You can find us on Apple Podcast, Google Podcast, Spotify, and Stitcher. You can also leave comments, suggestions, and ratings for every episode you listen to.  Audio created by Ryan Rasmussen Productions.

In this episode you will hear:   (06:42) In this week’s news segment, an article from Forbes “Wanted: Students for Admission to College” by Brennan Bernard. There is a subset of colleges and universities who have seen record increases in applications this year (thanks in part to pandemic-induced test-optional policies), but the reality is that this is predominantly among  and others are seeing declining numbers. The more concerning trends are that fewer first-generation and low-income students submitted applications and that  have fallen (by more than 9% as of late February). Students are more valuable than ever and the pandemic has changed how colleges recruit these students. Mark and Dave discuss how student recruitment has been forced to change because of covid-19.     (30:54) We’re in chapter 166 of 171 Answers – the power and value of affinity groups. Mark and Anika discuss why affinity groups are so powerful and who are some of these affinity groups designed to serve. Mark discusses the controversy over these affinity groups.   (43:52) This week’s question is from Courtney, a college counselor in New England, and she is asking how to navigate family conversations when trying to relay the message of being a small fish in a big ocean, when they have been a big fish in a small pond, for the most part of their lives.   (01:11:58) Mark kicks off his interview with Julia Hutchinson a high school senior from Wisconsin - A creative approach to learning what the students are like at the colleges on your child’s college list (Part 1 of 3)   (01:18:58) Recommended resource:   This website has very helpful videos from admission leaders at six highly selective small colleges that many people are not familiar with. The videos discuss applying to college, but they also describe some of the resources available at these campuses.   (01:30:38) College spotlight: San Diego State University (CA)   ()   If you are interested in listening to past episodes where Mark did a deep dive into how Student Search works, listen to the book chapter discussion in Episode 25 and the Bonus content discussion in episode 95. This episodes go into depth about how colleges target students via mail and email.   Don't forget to send your questions related to any and every facet of the college process to: . Music is by SENA HERO/Victor-Alan Weeks. If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful! To access and best utilize the transcripts of each podcast, please do the following: Go to  Click the Transcripts tab, from the top menu by the Episodes tab Click on the transcript for the specific episode you are interested in, just click on the image or by the word “Transcript” You will see a Share icon, a download option, a link to Apple podcast and you will see a magnifying glass Use the magnifying glass to search for any word. If that word was used in the episode, it will show up, highlighted in yellow. You will also see a timestamp so you can see the exact minute and second this word was spoken. If you click the word highlighted in yellow, the podcast player will start playing right at that word. You can stop it from playing by clicking the pause button.  Note: The transcription accuracy is about 90%, so you will see some spelling errors and errors in translation going from voice to print. We are excited to give our listeners a chance to play a role in shaping what topics we discuss, so please send us your ideas for college spotlights, articles for discussion and recommended resources. You can let your voice be heard by completing this survey. Just put the following link in your browser and give us your honest feedback. We thank you in advance. Every episode of Your College-Bound Kid will align with a chapter from the book 171 Answers to the Most-Asked College Admission Questions. To get a copy go to Amazon and click:    If you want to place a bulk order, you will save money by purchasing this book at 171answers.com. Every penny goes to The Atlanta Mission, a Christian organization that helps over 1000 homeless residents every day.  If you want to see what future episodes will discuss in the book chapter section,  just go to 171answers.com and then click the red button "See exactly what 171 Answers covers"

In this episode you will hear:   (09:06) In this week’s news segment, an article from Forbes “2021 College Admission Predictions” by Brennan Bernard. College leaders offer their predictions for the next 12 months, and among other projections, the general consensus was that virtual admission is here to stay, standardized testing will fade away, and enrollment unpredictability will rule the day. Mark and Dave discuss about eight to ten different quotes from admission leaders as they make their predictions for 2021.     (40:26) We’re in chapter 165 of 171 Answers – the importance of establishing academic accountability. We are talking about  accountability for students while they are in college. We give several examples of the effectiveness of accountability   (57:20) Bonus content – Is it easier to get into a selective college from a public or private high school? Mark discusses the pros and cons of the public high school and the private high school from a college option standpoint.   (01:22:42) Mark concludes his interview with the former admission officer and current college counselor, Julia Esquivel from Massachusetts-How to work more effectively with your school counselor – part 6 of 6   (01:33:20) Recommended resource: bluevine.com, a great place to get your forgivable loan through the PPP program if you have a business. This can jump start your college fund.   Don't forget to send your questions related to any and every facet of the college process to: . Music is by SENA HERO/Victor-Alan Weeks. If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful! To access and best utilize the transcripts of each podcast, please do the following: Go to  Click the Transcripts tab, from the top menu by the Episodes tab Click on the transcript for the specific episode you are interested in, just click on the image or by the word “Transcript” You will see a Share icon, a download option, a link to Apple podcast and you will see a magnifying glass Use the magnifying glass to search for any word. If that word was used in the episode, it will show up, highlighted in yellow. You will also see a timestamp so you can see the exact minute and second this word was spoken. If you click the word highlighted in yellow, the podcast player will start playing right at that word. You can stop it from playing by clicking the pause button.  Note: The transcription accuracy is about 90%, so you will see some spelling errors and errors in translation going from voice to print. We are excited to give our listeners a chance to play a role in shaping what topics we discuss, so please send us your ideas for college spotlights, articles for discussion and recommended resources. You can let your voice be heard by completing this survey. Just put the following link in your browser and give us your honest feedback. We thank you in advance. Every episode of Your College-Bound Kid will align with a chapter from the book 171 Answers to the Most-Asked College Admission Questions. To get a copy go to Amazon and click:   If you want to place a bulk order, you will save money by purchasing this book at 171answers.com. Every penny goes to The Atlanta Mission, a Christian organization that helps over 1000 homeless residents every day.  If you want to see what future episodes will discuss in the book chapter section,  just go to 171answers.com and then click the red button "See exactly what 171 Answers covers"

In this episode you will hear:   (05:57) In this week’s news segment, an article from the Georgia Tech Admission Blog “Predicting Yield in 2021: Everyone Shorts It” by Rick Clark. Admission and enrollment leaders are trying to predict whether students will be willing to enroll given the uncertainty of the continued impact of the pandemic. The difficulty of predicting yield means that it is almost inevitable that more selective schools will have long wait lists this year.     (29:00) We’re in chapter 164 of 171 Answers – why is it so important to select the right friends in college?   (38:41) Marcia from GA wants to find out how to know whether her daughter should take the ACT or SAT.   (54:25) Mark continues his interview with the former admission officer and current college counselor, Julia Esquivel from Massachusetts-How to work more effectively with your school counselor – part 5 of 6   (01:01:34) Recommended resource: This website has over 3 million scholarships that have been pre-screened to make sure there are no scholarship scams.   (01:14:40) College spotlight: Indiana University (https://www.indiana.edu/)   Don't forget to send your questions related to any and every facet of the college process to: . Music is by SENA HERO/Victor-Alan Weeks. If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful! To access and best utilize the transcripts of each podcast, please do the following: Go to  Click the Transcripts tab, from the top menu by the Episodes tab Click on the transcript for the specific episode you are interested in, just click on the image or by the word “Transcript” You will see a Share icon, a download option, a link to Apple podcast and you will see a magnifying glass Use the magnifying glass to search for any word. If that word was used in the episode, it will show up, highlighted in yellow. You will also see a timestamp so you can see the exact minute and second this word was spoken. If you click the word highlighted in yellow, the podcast player will start playing right at that word. You can stop it from playing by clicking the pause button.  Note: The transcription accuracy is about 90%, so you will see some spelling errors and errors in translation going from voice to print. We are excited to give our listeners a chance to play a role in shaping what topics we discuss, so please send us your ideas for college spotlights, articles for discussion and recommended resources. You can let your voice be heard by completing this survey. Just put the following link in your browser and give us your honest feedback. We thank you in advance. Every episode of Your College-Bound Kid will align with a chapter from the book 171 Answers to the Most-Asked College Admission Questions. To get a copy go to Amazon and click:    If you want to place a bulk order, you will save money by purchasing this book at 171answers.com. Every penny goes to The Atlanta Mission, a Christian organization that helps over 1000 homeless residents every day.  If you want to see what future episodes will discuss in the book chapter section, just go to 171answers.com and then click the red button "See exactly what 171 Answers covers"

In this episode you will hear:   (05:08) In this week’s news segment, an article from The Chronicle of Higher Ed “The Surveilled Student” by Katherine Mangan. The pandemic has prompted many colleges to roll out surveillance tools that could help limit the spread of the virus, or mitigate its effects on learning, as students are sent out of the classroom and into private quarters. All met with backlash from students and parents.     (23:12) We’re in chapter 163 of 171 Answers – how a student can save over $100k more than most students who attend college.   (34:12) Alison from TX wants to know how much a letter of continued interest actually helps, after being waitlisted by her Early Decision II school.   (50:48) Mark continues his interview with the former admission officer and current college counselor, Julia Esquivel from Massachusetts-How to work more effectively with your school counselor – part 4 of 6   (01:04:20) Recommended resource: The Higher Ed Newsletter:   You can click the sign-up button and receive a daily email with some of the most interesting and compelling stories about Higher Education that are in the News.   (01:13:21) College spotlight: Northeastern University (MA)   Don't forget to send your questions related to any and every facet of the college process to: . Music is by SENA HERO/Victor-Alan Weeks. If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful! To access and best utilize the transcripts of each podcast, please do the following: Go to  Click the Transcripts tab, from the top menu by the Episodes tab Click on the transcript for the specific episode you are interested in, just click on the image or by the word “Transcript” You will see a Share icon, a download option, a link to Apple podcast and you will see a magnifying glass Use the magnifying glass to search for any word. If that word was used in the episode, it will show up, highlighted in yellow. You will also see a timestamp so you can see the exact minute and second this word was spoken. If you click the word highlighted in yellow, the podcast player will start playing right at that word. You can stop it from playing by clicking the pause button.  Note: The transcription accuracy is about 90%, so you will see some spelling errors and errors in translation going from voice to print. We are excited to give our listeners a chance to play a role in shaping what topics we discuss, so please send us your ideas for college spotlights, articles for discussion and recommended resources. You can let your voice be heard by completing this survey. Just put the following link in your browser and give us your honest feedback. We thank you in advance. Every episode of Your College-Bound Kid will align with a chapter from the book 171 Answers to the Most-Asked College Admission Questions. To get a copy go to Amazon and click:   If you want to place a bulk order, you will save money by purchasing this book at 171answers.com. Every penny goes to The Atlanta Mission, a Christian organization that helps over 1000 homeless residents every day.  If you want to see what future episodes will discuss in the book chapter section,  just go to 171answers.com and then click the red button "See exactly what 171 Answers covers"

In this episode you will hear:   (04:48) In this week’s news segment, an article from The Hechinger Report “While Many Colleges Are Making Big Cuts, A Few Opt for Permanent Transformation” by Jon Marcus. Mark and Dave continue their conversation around Unity College and a handful of other institutions are transforming themselves permanently, using lessons of the Covid-19 era to adopt or speed up dramatic innovations in a sector that in normal times is very slow to change.     (24:07) We’re in chapter 162 of 171 Answers – how to save money through online courses.   (31:04) Meg from NJ wants to know if her son should reveal where he is applying to schools since he attends a competitive high school.   (47:27) Mark continues his interview with the former admission officer and current college counselor, Julia Esquivel from Massachusetts-How to work more effectively with your school counselor – part 3 of 6   (58:32)  Recommended resource: The classic book, “Doing School” that looks at how we are creating a generation of stressed-out, materialistic and miseducated students. The book is by Denise Clark Pope.   (01:11:00) College spotlight: University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT   Don't forget to send your questions related to any and every facet of the college process to: . Music is by SENA HERO/Victor-Alan Weeks. If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful! To access and best utilize the transcripts of each podcast, please do the following: Go to  Click the Transcripts tab, from the top menu by the Episodes tab Click on the transcript for the specific episode you are interested in, just click on the image or by the word “Transcript” You will see a Share icon, a download option, a link to Apple podcast and you will see a magnifying glass Use the magnifying glass to search for any word. If that word was used in the episode, it will show up, highlighted in yellow. You will also see a timestamp so you can see the exact minute and second this word was spoken. If you click the word highlighted in yellow, the podcast player will start playing right at that word. You can stop it from playing by clicking the pause button.  Note: The transcription accuracy is about 90%, so you will see some spelling errors and errors in translation going from voice to print. We are excited to give our listeners a chance to play a role in shaping what topics we discuss, so please send us your ideas for college spotlights, articles for discussion and recommended resources. You can let your voice be heard by completing this survey. Just put the following link in your browser and give us your honest feedback. We thank you in advance. Every episode of Your College-Bound Kid will align with a chapter from the book 171 Answers to the Most-Asked College Admission Questions. To get a copy go to Amazon and click:   If you want to place a bulk order, you will save money by purchasing this book at 171answers.com. Every penny goes to The Atlanta Mission, a Christian organization that helps over 1000 homeless residents every day.  If you want to see what future episodes will discuss in the book chapter section,  just go to 171answers.com and then click the red button "See exactly what 171 Answers covers"

In this episode you will hear: (04:59) In this week’s news segment, an article from Vox “The Mess That is Elite College Admissions, Explained by a Former Dean”  Jason England. The dean of an elite liberal arts university shares 8 things that he wishes people understood about his old job in admissions and its wide-ranging controversies. In our final segment Mark and Dave discuss points 5-8.     (28:22) We’re in chapter 161 of 171 Answers – affirmative action for rich kids. Mark just makes a few points on this topic that we haven’t covered. Mark reveals an admissions strategy that is seldom discussed to target affluent applicants.   Mark and Anika finish up with part 2 of their conversation about the importance of character in the college admission process. We end this discussion by covering 15-character traits that admission counselors who do holistic admissions value.   (59:35) In our question from a listener segment, Diana from WI asks about the red flags that reveal that a college isn’t right for a student. Mark shares 10 common red flags.   (01:12:41) Mark continues his interview with the former admission officer and current college counselor, Julia Esquivel from Massachusetts-How to work more effectively with your school counselor – part 2 of 6   (01:25:34) Recommended resource: A great source for finding virtual college visits, as well as for finding a fun list of things to look for on these visits:   No College Spotlight this week. Next week, the University of Utah in Salt Lake City   Don't forget to send your questions related to any and every facet of the college process to: . Music is by SENA HERO/Victor-Alan Weeks. If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful! To access and best utilize the transcripts of each podcast, please do the following: Go to  Click the Transcripts tab, from the top menu by the Episodes tab Click on the transcript for the specific episode you are interested in, just click on the image or by the word “Transcript” You will see a Share icon, a download option, a link to Apple podcast and you will see a magnifying glass Use the magnifying glass to search for any word. If that word was used in the episode, it will show up, highlighted in yellow. You will also see a timestamp so you can see the exact minute and second this word was spoken. If you click the word highlighted in yellow, the podcast player will start playing right at that word. You can stop it from playing by clicking the pause button.  Note: The transcription accuracy is about 90%, so you will see some spelling errors and errors in translation going from voice to print. We are excited to give our listeners a chance to play a role in shaping what topics we discuss, so please send us your ideas for college spotlights, articles for discussion and recommended resources. You can let your voice be heard by completing this survey. Just put the following link in your browser and give us your honest feedback. We thank you in advance. Every episode of Your College-Bound Kid will align with a chapter from the book 171 Answers to the Most-Asked College Admission Questions. To get a copy go to Amazon and click:   If you want to place a bulk order, you will save money by purchasing this book at 171answers.com. Every penny goes to The Atlanta Mission, a Christian organization that helps over 1000 homeless residents every day.  If you want to see what future episodes will discuss in the book chapter section,  just go to 171answers.com and then click the red button "See exactly what 171 Answers covers"

In this episode you will hear: (05:15) In this week’s news segment, an article from Vox “The Mess That is Elite College Admissions, Explained by a Former Dean” by Jason England. The dean of an elite liberal arts university shares 8 things that he wishes people understood about his old job in admissions and its wide-ranging controversies. In this segment Mark and Dave take 40 minutes to talk about the third and fourth point that England wishes the public knew about how admissions really works as selective schools that do holistic admissions.   (40:46) We’re in chapter 160 of 171 Answers and we’re talking about the ROTC scholarship. We just saw a few short words here so we can focus more on bonus content this week.   (49:47) In this week’s bonus content, Mark talks about something very important to college admission counselors that he feels he  hasn't talked enough about in the past 159 episodes.   (01:10:20) Mark kicks off the first part of his interview with the former admission officer and current college counselor, Julia Esquivel from Massachusetts-How to work more effectively with your school counselor – part 1 of 6   (01:21:09) Recommended resource: An excellent list with links to well over 100 hundred summer programs for high school students to attend.   (01:32:31) College spotlight: University of Chicago (). Dr. Lisa Rouff is back to talk about her alma mater, The University of Chicago   Don't forget to send your questions related to any and every facet of the college process to: . Music is by SENA HERO/Victor-Alan Weeks. If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful! To access and best utilize the transcripts of each podcast, please do the following: Go to  Click the Transcripts tab, from the top menu by the Episodes tab Click on the transcript for the specific episode you are interested in, just click on the image or by the word “Transcript” You will see a Share icon, a download option, a link to Apple podcast and you will see a magnifying glass Use the magnifying glass to search for any word. If that word was used in the episode, it will show up, highlighted in yellow. You will also see a timestamp so you can see the exact minute and second this word was spoken. If you click the word highlighted in yellow, the podcast player will start playing right at that word. You can stop it from playing by clicking the pause button.  Note: The transcription accuracy is about 90%, so you will see some spelling errors and errors in translation going from voice to print. We are excited to give our listeners a chance to play a role in shaping what topics we discuss, so please send us your ideas for college spotlights, articles for discussion and recommended resources. You can let your voice be heard by completing this survey. Just put the following link in your browser and give us your honest feedback. We thank you in advance. Every episode of Your College-Bound Kid will align with a chapter from the book 171 Answers to the Most-Asked College Admission Questions. To get a copy go to Amazon and click:   If you want to place a bulk order, you will save money by purchasing this book at 171answers.com. Every penny goes to The Atlanta Mission, a Christian organization that helps over 1000 homeless residents every day.  If you want to see what future episodes will discuss in the book chapter section,  just go to 171answers.com and then click the red button "See exactly what 171 Answers covers"

In this episode you will hear: (16:07) In this week’s news segment, an article from Vox “The Mess That is Elite College Admissions, Explained by a Former Dean” by Jason England. The former dean of an elite liberal arts university shares 8 things that he wishes people understood about his old job in admissions and its wide-ranging controversies.  These eight points are so relevant to today that Mark and Dave are breaking this up into a four-part series. They discuss the first and second point of the eight in this episode.     (55:00) We’re in chapter 159 of 171 Answers and we’re talking through the advantages and disadvantages of home equity loans, HELOCs and cash out refi’s. Mark explains what all of these are and Mark and Anika discuss the pros and cons of these, especially in comparison to a Parent PLUS loan.   (01:12:05) This week’s question asks if financial aid works the same for students who are born in India but they have done their schooling in the US as it works for other international students.   (01:24:07)Mark continues his interview with Amin Gonzalez-VP and Dean of Admission at Wesleyan University in part 2 of 2 of- Understanding Wesleyan University   (01:30:45) Recommended resource: The book, “The Price of Admission: How America's Ruling Class Buys Its Way into Elite Colleges - and Who Gets Left Outside the Gates.  Daniel Golden, is the author and he is recipient of the Pulitzer Prize in journalism. The book was written in 2006 but an updated version came out in 2019. Golden’s core argument is just as relevant today; America’s elite colleges resemble an aristocracy more than a meritocracy. Golden uses hard facts to prove this case.   Don't forget to send your questions related to any and every facet of the college process to: . Music is by SENA HERO/Victor-Alan Weeks. If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful! To access and best utilize the transcripts of each podcast, please do the following: Go to  Click the Transcripts tab, from the top menu by the Episodes tab Click on the transcript for the specific episode you are interested in, just click on the image or by the word “Transcript” You will see a Share icon, a download option, a link to Apple podcast and you will see a magnifying glass Use the magnifying glass to search for any word. If that word was used in the episode, it will show up, highlighted in yellow. You will also see a timestamp so you can see the exact minute and second this word was spoken. If you click the word highlighted in yellow, the podcast player will start playing right at that word. You can stop it from playing by clicking the pause button.  Note: The transcription accuracy is about 90%, so you will see some spelling errors and errors in translation going from voice to print. We are excited to give our listeners a chance to play a role in shaping what topics we discuss, so please send us your ideas for college spotlights, articles for discussion and recommended resources. You can let your voice be heard by completing this survey. Just put the following link in your browser and give us your honest feedback. We thank you in advance. Every episode of Your College-Bound Kid will align with a chapter from the book 171 Answers to the Most-Asked College Admission Questions. To get a copy go to Amazon and click:   If you want to place a bulk order, you will save money by purchasing this book at 171answers.com. Every penny goes to The Atlanta Mission, a Christian organization that helps over 1000 homeless residents every day.  If you want to see what future episodes will discuss in the book chapter section,  just go to 171answers.com and then click the red button "See exactly what 171 Answers covers"

In this episode you will hear: (08:07) In this week’s news segment, an article from scotscott.com “California’s rejection of affirmative action affects university admissions” by Lindsay Augustine and Andrew Tolu. Proposition 16 would have legalized affirmative action, but California voters rejected the new proposition in favor of 1996’s Proposition 209, which banned affirmative action.  Mark and Dave have a spirited discussion about this controversial topic.     (39:12) We’re in chapter 158 of 171 Answers and we’re talking through how to save thousands of dollars through exams and creative college programs. We cover seven different ways to save thousands of dollars on your tuition bill.  Mark spends an extensive amount of time on one of the seven methods. He does this because he has only touched on this a few times and never shared anything with any depth until now.   (01:04:56) This week’s question asks for more information about Pomona and some of the routes to getting in. They are especially interested in hearing about the Early Decision/Action compared to Regular Decision stats and how many admitted students are recruited athletes or from QuestBridge-like programs. Special thanks to Zola for this question.   (01:17:21) Mark continues his interview with Amin Gonzalez-VP and Dean of Admission at Wesleyan University in part 1 of 2 in- Understanding Wesleyan University   (01:22:32) Recommended resource   Don't forget to send your questions related to any and every facet of the college process to: . Music is by SENA HERO/Victor-Alan Weeks. If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful! To access and best utilize the transcripts of each podcast, please do the following: Go to  Click the Transcripts tab, from the top menu by the Episodes tab Click on the transcript for the specific episode you are interested in, just click on the image or by the word “Transcript” You will see a Share icon, a download option, a link to Apple podcast and you will see a magnifying glass Use the magnifying glass to search for any word. If that word was used in the episode, it will show up, highlighted in yellow. You will also see a timestamp so you can see the exact minute and second this word was spoken. If you click the word highlighted in yellow, the podcast player will start playing right at that word. You can stop it from playing by clicking the pause button.  Note: The transcription accuracy is about 90%, so you will see some spelling errors and errors in translation going from voice to print. We are excited to give our listeners a chance to play a role in shaping what topics we discuss, so please send us your ideas for college spotlights, articles for discussion and recommended resources. You can let your voice be heard by completing this survey. Just put the following link in your browser and give us your honest feedback. We thank you in advance. Every episode of Your College-Bound Kid will align with a chapter from the book 171 Answers to the Most-Asked College Admission Questions. To get a copy go to Amazon and click:   If you want to place a bulk order, you will save money by purchasing this book at . Every penny goes to The Atlanta Mission, a Christian organization that helps over 1000 homeless residents every day.  If you want to see what future episodes will discuss in the book chapter section,  just go to 171answers.com and then click the red button "See exactly what 171 Answers covers"

In this episode you will hear: (14:40) In this week’s news segment, an article from Inside Higher Ed “The College Degree is Diving America: What Does that Mean for Higher Education?”, by Eric Kelderman. Higher education is known for its criticism among conservatives and if Trump were to have won re-lection institutions would have very likely taken a blow to critical funding and sound policy initiatives. “The president has spent his first term trashing advanced knowledge, from denying climate science to dismissing Dr. Fauci and other learned epidemiologists as idiots”, wrote the president of Trinity Washington University.     (30:40) We’re in chapter 157 of 171 Answers and we’re talking through what tax deductions and tax credits parents of college students could potentially receive.   (46:52) This week’s question is from Jillion in CA. She wants to know how to tell if what a kid is doing from an extracurricular perspective is “enough” for a selective school.   (01:07:38) Mark concludes his interview with Amin Gonzalez-VP and Dean of Admission at Wesleyan University in the final part of - How to effectively utilize the Additional Information section of the Common Application   (01:16:33) Recommended resource: (01:22:47) College spotlight: University of New Hampshire   Don't forget to send your questions related to any and every facet of the college process to: . Music is by SENA HERO/Victor-Alan Weeks.   If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful! To access and best utilize the transcripts of each podcast, please do the following: Go to  Click the Transcripts tab, from the top menu by the Episodes tab Click on the transcript for the specific episode you are interested in, just click on the image or by the word “Transcript” You will see a Share icon, a download option, a link to Apple podcast and you will see a magnifying glass Use the magnifying glass to search for any word. If that word was used in the episode, it will show up, highlighted in yellow. You will also see a timestamp so you can see the exact minute and second this word was spoken. If you click the word highlighted in yellow, the podcast player will start playing right at that word. You can stop it from playing by clicking the pause button.  Note: The transcription accuracy is about 90%, so you will see some spelling errors and errors in translation going from voice to print. We are excited to give our listeners a chance to play a role in shaping what topics we discuss, so please send us your ideas for college spotlights, articles for discussion and recommended resources. You can let your voice be heard by completing this survey. Just put the following link in your browser and give us your honest feedback. We thank you in advance. Every episode of Your College-Bound Kid will align with a chapter from the book 171 Answers to the Most-Asked College Admission Questions. To get a copy go to Amazon and click:   If you want to place a bulk order, you will save money by purchasing this book at 171answers.com. Every penny goes to The Atlanta Mission, a Christian organization that helps over 1000 homeless residents every day.  If you want to see what future episodes will discuss in the book chapter section,  just go to 171answers.com and then click the red button "See exactly what 171 Answers covers"

In this episode you will hear: (09:10) In this week’s news segment, an article from Forbes “Common App  Will No Longer Ask About Discipline Records, by Elana Lyn Gross. The Common App is eliminating a question that asks college applicants to disclose if they have been subject to disciplinary action in high school after finding the answer disproportionately impacts low-income students and students of color. Mark and Dave discuss the history of this question and they debate whether this decision is a good one or a bad one.     (27:00) We’re in chapter 156 of 171 Answers and we’re talking through how to accept a federal student loan.   (34:18) This week’s question asks how to tell the selectivity level of a college. What may seem like a simple question actually has a pretty complex answer.   (56:09) Mark resumes his interview with Amin Gonzalez-VP and Dean of Admission at Wesleyan University in Part 2 of 3-How to effectively utilize the Additional Information section of the Common Application   (01:03:51) Recommended resource: Politico’s weekly roundup of stories related to education. . Plus two books to help understand the White Power movement: “Hate in the Homeland” by Cynthia Miller Idris and “Bring the War Home” by Kathleen Belew (01:13:42) College spotlight: University of New Mexico ()   Don't forget to send your questions related to any and every facet of the college process to: . Music is by SENA HERO/Victor-Alan Weeks.   If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful! To access and best utilize the transcripts of each podcast, please do the following: Go to  Click the Transcripts tab, from the top menu by the Episodes tab Click on the transcript for the specific episode you are interested in, just click on the image or by the word “Transcript” You will see a Share icon, a download option, a link to Apple podcast and you will see a magnifying glass Use the magnifying glass to search for any word. If that word was used in the episode, it will show up, highlighted in yellow. You will also see a timestamp so you can see the exact minute and second this word was spoken. If you click the word highlighted in yellow, the podcast player will start playing right at that word. You can stop it from playing by clicking the pause button.  Note: The transcription accuracy is about 90%, so you will see some spelling errors and errors in translation going from voice to print. We are excited to give our listeners a chance to play a role in shaping what topics we discuss, so please send us your ideas for college spotlights, articles for discussion and recommended resources. You can let your voice be heard by completing this survey. Just put the following link in your browser and give us your honest feedback. We thank you in advance. Every episode of Your College-Bound Kid will align with a chapter from the book 171 Answers to the Most-Asked College Admission Questions. To get a copy go to Amazon and click: If you want to place a bulk order, you will save money by purchasing this book at 171answers.com. Every penny goes to The Atlanta Mission, a Christian organization that helps over 1000 homeless residents every day.  If you want to see what future episodes will discuss in the book chapter section,  just go to 171answers.com and then click the red button "See exactly what 171 Answers covers"

In this episode you will hear: (07:43) In this week’s news segment, an article from Inside Higher Ed “Did Students In College Housing Learn Better?”, by Greta Anderson. A new survey from American Campus Communities, one of the largest student housing developers and providers in the United States, found positive academic and social outcomes for students living on or near campus in college housing this fall and determined that students also closely followed coronavirus safety guidelines.   (25:16) We’re in chapter 155 of 171 Answers and we’re talking through the myths about the financial aid process.   (40:34) This week’s bonus content covers intellectual curiosity – what it is and how it is assessed by colleges.   (59:03) Mark kicks off his interview with Amin Gonzalez-VP and Dean of Admission at Wesleyan University in Part 1 of 3-How to effectively utilize the Additional Information section of the Common Application   (01:03:55) Recommended resource (011:14:48) College spotlight: St. Louis University   Don't forget to send your questions related to any and every facet of the college process to: . Music is by SENA HERO/Victor-Alan Weeks.   If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful! To access and best utilize the transcripts of each podcast, please do the following: Go to  Click the Transcripts tab, from the top menu by the Episodes tab Click on the transcript for the specific episode you are interested in, just click on the image or by the word “Transcript” You will see a Share icon, a download option, a link to Apple podcast and you will see a magnifying glass Use the magnifying glass to search for any word. If that word was used in the episode, it will show up, highlighted in yellow. You will also see a timestamp so you can see the exact minute and second this word was spoken. If you click the word highlighted in yellow, the podcast player will start playing right at that word. You can stop it from playing by clicking the pause button.  Note: The transcription accuracy is about 90%, so you will see some spelling errors and errors in translation going from voice to print. We are excited to give our listeners a chance to play a role in shaping what topics we discuss, so please send us your ideas for college spotlights, articles for discussion and recommended resources. You can let your voice be heard by completing this survey. Just put the following link in your browser and give us your honest feedback. We thank you in advance. Every episode of Your College-Bound Kid will align with a chapter from the book 171 Answers to the Most-Asked College Admission Questions. To get a copy go to Amazon and click:   If you want to place a bulk order, you will save money by purchasing this book at 171answers.com. Every penny goes to The Atlanta Mission, a Christian organization that helps over 1000 homeless residents every day.  If you want to see what future episodes will discuss in the book chapter section,  just go to 171answers.com and then click the red button "See exactly what 171 Answers covers"

In this episode you will hear: (05:35) In this week’s news segment, an article from cnbc.com “COVID is making it harder to get into a top college”, by Jessica Dickler. The nation’s top schools saw a record number of early applications for fewer spots; while the rest of the country’s colleges are facing a decrease in enrollment. Mark and Dave focus on the decreased applications most schools are experiencing in their discussion.   (23:13) We’re in chapter 154 of 171 Answers and we’re discussing 4 different ways to appeal your financial aid award.   (44:25) This week’s question is from a student in Nebraska and she is asking how can she get an opportunity to do research with a professor.   (53:14) Mark concludes his interview with college student, Chika Nwosu as she reflects on her freshman and sophomore year at the University of Miami. Part 4/4   (01:00:13) Recommended resource:   This is the definitive source for tracking vital formation like college enrollment, retention and graduation data.   (01:08:33) College spotlight: University of Oregon ()   Don't forget to send your questions related to any and every facet of the college process to: . Music is by SENA HERO/Victor-Alan Weeks.   If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful! To access and best utilize the transcripts of each podcast, please do the following: Go to  Click the Transcripts tab, from the top menu by the Episodes tab Click on the transcript for the specific episode you are interested in, just click on the image or by the word “Transcript” You will see a Share icon, a download option, a link to Apple podcast and you will see a magnifying glass Use the magnifying glass to search for any word. If that word was used in the episode, it will show up, highlighted in yellow. You will also see a timestamp so you can see the exact minute and second this word was spoken. If you click the word highlighted in yellow, the podcast player will start playing right at that word. You can stop it from playing by clicking the pause button.  Note: The transcription accuracy is about 90%, so you will see some spelling errors and errors in translation going from voice to print. We are excited to give our listeners a chance to play a role in shaping what topics we discuss, so please send us your ideas for college spotlights, articles for discussion and recommended resources. You can let your voice be heard by completing this survey. Just put the following link in your browser and give us your honest feedback. We thank you in advance. Every episode of Your College-Bound Kid will align with a chapter from the book 171 Answers to the Most-Asked College Admission Questions. To get a copy go to Amazon and click:   If you want to place a bulk order, you will save money by purchasing this book at 171answers.com. Every penny goes to The Atlanta Mission, a Christian organization that helps over 1000 homeless residents every day.  If you want to see what future episodes will discuss in the book chapter section,  just go to 171answers.com and then click the red button "See exactly what 171 Answers covers"

In this episode you will hear: (08:08) In this week’s news segment, an article from Politico.com “Supreme Court Will Hear NCAA Case on College Athlete Pay”, by Leah Nylen and Juan Perez, Jr. The Supreme Court will hear a landmark antitrust case against the NCAA that could upend the business model for college sports by allowing colleges to compensate student athletes.   (27:08) We’re in chapter 153 of 171 Answers and we’re discussing the role of the college financial aid certified planner. We answer the question, when does it make sense to use one? Who is this and what do they do?   (36:28) This week’s question is from a Twitter follower in Massachusetts who wants to know, what can be done to stand out in the regular admissions round.   (57:33) In this week’s interview, College Student Chika Nwosu reflects on her freshman and sophomore year at the University of Miami, Part 3 of 4.   (01:03:03) Recommended resource: College Admission Essentials by Ethan Sawyer. This comprehensive  book interviews multiple college admission experts and it shares their sage advice about college admissions.   (01:15:43) College spotlight: University of South Florida ()   Don't forget to send your questions related to any and every facet of the college process to: questions@yourcollegeboundkid.com If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful!   To access and best utilize the transcripts of each podcast, please do the following: Go to  Click the Transcripts tab, from the top menu by the Episodes tab Click on the transcript for the specific episode you are interested in, just click on the image or by the word “Transcript” You will see a Share icon, a download option, a link to Apple podcast and you will see a magnifying glass Use the magnifying glass to search for any word. If that word was used in the episode, it will show up, highlighted in yellow. You will also see a timestamp so you can see the exact minute and second this word was spoken. If you click the word highlighted in yellow, the podcast player will start playing right at that word. You can stop it from playing by clicking the pause button.  Note: The transcription accuracy is about 90%, so you will see some spelling errors and errors in translation going from voice to print. We are excited to give our listeners a chance to play a role in shaping what topics we discuss, so please send us your ideas for college spotlights, articles for discussion and recommended resources. You can let your voice be heard by completing this survey. Just put the following link in your browser and give us your honest feedback. We thank you in advance. Every episode of Your College-Bound Kid will align with a chapter from the book 171 Answers to the Most-Asked College Admission Questions. To get a copy go to Amazon and click:   If you want to place a bulk order, you will save money by purchasing this book at 171answers.com. Every penny goes to The Atlanta Mission, a Christian organization that helps over 1000 homeless residents every day.  If you want to see what future episodes will discuss in the book chapter section,  just go to 171answers.com and then click the red button "See exactly what 171 Answers covers"

In this episode you will hear: (08:24) In this week’s news segment, an article from Inside Higher Ed “Applications Tank in State That Require SAT or ACT”, by Scott Jaschik. Florida public schools have resisted the calls to go test optional and now many Florida schools are seeing a major decline in applications.   (21:35) We’re in chapter 152 of 171 Answers and we’re discussing whether transfer students get as much financial aid as freshman applicants.   (33:58) This week’s question is from Elizabeth in Georgia and she wants to know how to answer the question posed by the CSS Profile: ‘enter the amount your parents think they will be able to pay for your college expenses   (46:16) In this week’s interview, College Student Chika Nwosu reflects on her freshman and sophomore year at the University of Miami, Part 2 of 4.   (50:46) Recommended resource: The book, The College Visit Journal: Campus Visits Demystified by Danielle Marshall. The book is a great place to record and store all your notes from your campus visits in one place. Bonus section: Why are elite colleges getting so many early applications this year (Part 2)   Don't forget to send your questions related to any and every facet of the college process to: questions@yourcollegeboundkid.com If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful! To access and best utilize the transcripts of each podcast, please do the following: Go to  Click the Transcripts tab, from the top menu by the Episodes tab Click on the transcript for the specific episode you are interested in, just click on the image or by the word “Transcript” You will see a Share icon, a download option, a link to Apple podcast and you will see a magnifying glass Use the magnifying glass to search for any word. If that word was used in the episode, it will show up, highlighted in yellow. You will also see a timestamp so you can see the exact minute and second this word was spoken. If you click the word highlighted in yellow, the podcast player will start playing right at that word. You can stop it from playing by clicking the pause button.  Note: The transcription accuracy is about 90%, so you will see some spelling errors and errors in translation going from voice to print. We are excited to give our listeners a chance to play a role in shaping what topics we discuss, so please send us your ideas for college spotlights, articles for discussion and recommended resources. You can let your voice be heard by completing this survey. Just put the following link in your browser and give us your honest feedback. We thank you in advance. Every episode of Your College-Bound Kid will align with a chapter from the book 171 Answers to the Most-Asked College Admission Questions. To get a copy go to Amazon and click:   If you want to place a bulk order, you will save money by purchasing this book at 171answers.com. Every penny goes to The Atlanta Mission, a Christian organization that helps over 1000 homeless residents every day.  If you want to see what future episodes will discuss in the book chapter section,  just go to 171answers.com and then click the red button "See exactly what 171 Answers covers"

In this episode you will hear: (14:12) In this week’s news segment, an article from The Wall Street Journal “The New M.B.A.: Flexible, Cheaper and Lifelong”, by Patrick Thomas Harvard’s and Columbia’s business schools are starting to add certificates and ‘lifelong learning’ to their programs, a shift that could transform business education in the years ahead.   (28:03) We’re in chapter 151 of 171 Answers and we’re talking through the pros and cons of using a Roth IRA as a source to pay for college. Mark also answers the question, if you do not have enough money for a 529 and an IRA, which one should you prioritize?   (48:14) This week’s question is from Jillion in CA: “I heard people get dual citizenship if they attend college in Canada. Can that be true?” Dave was born and raised in Toronto so he joins Mark and they both answer this question this week.   (01:00:49) In this week’s interview, College Student Chika Nwosu reflects on her freshman and sophomore year at the University of Miami. Chika joined us on episode 38 and again on episode 81. A parent asked us if we can follow a student and have her come on three times over the course of several years. This is the third interview in our sequence with Chika.   (01:08:15) Recommended resource: If you want to know more about studying in Canada go to the official website for the Country of Canada, that website is   Don't forget to send your questions related to any and every facet of the college process to: questions@yourcollegeboundkid.com If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful!   To access and best utilize the transcripts of each podcast, please do the following: Go to  Click the Transcripts tab, from the top menu by the Episodes tab Click on the transcript for the specific episode you are interested in, just click on the image or by the word “Transcript” You will see a Share icon, a download option, a link to Apple podcast and you will see a magnifying glass Use the magnifying glass to search for any word. If that word was used in the episode, it will show up, highlighted in yellow. You will also see a timestamp so you can see the exact minute and second this word was spoken. If you click the word highlighted in yellow, the podcast player will start playing right at that word. You can stop it from playing by clicking the pause button.  Note: The transcription accuracy is about 90%, so you will see some spelling errors and errors in translation going from voice to print. We are excited to give our listeners a chance to play a role in shaping what topics we discuss, so please send us your ideas for college spotlights, articles for discussion and recommended resources. You can let your voice be heard by completing this survey. Just put the following link in your browser and give us your honest feedback. We thank you in advance. Every episode of Your College-Bound Kid will align with a chapter from the book 171 Answers to the Most-Asked College Admission Questions. To get a copy go to Amazon and click:   If you want to place a bulk order, you will save money by purchasing this book at 171answers.com. Every penny goes to The Atlanta Mission, a Christian organization that helps over 1000 homeless residents every day.  If you want to see what future episodes will discuss in the book chapter section,  just go to 171answers.com and then click the red button "See exactly what 171 Answers covers"

In this episode you will hear: (09:05) In this week’s news segment, an article from Inside Higher Ed “How much will Biden be able to do?”, by Kery Murakami. Joe Biden will head to the White House with an ambitious agenda for higher education – that includes wanting to make college free for many students. But how much will the president-elect will be able to get through Congress? A lot will be riding on two runoff elections headed to voters in Georgia on Jan. 5 to decide who will fill the last two seats in the Senate.   (22:29) We’re in chapter 150 of 171 Answers and we’re talking through the many advantages of the 529 plan.   (36:26) Bonus content! How COVID-19 is changing college admissions this year, Part III.   (59:37) In this week’s interview, College Student Chika Nwosu returns to talk about her experience at the University of Miami.   (01:08:04) Recommended resource (01:18:09) College spotlight: University of Houston   Don't forget to send your questions related to any and every facet of the college process to: questions@yourcollegeboundkid.com If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful! To access and best utilize the transcripts of each podcast, please do the following: Go to  Click the Transcripts tab, from the top menu by the Episodes tab Click on the transcript for the specific episode you are interested in, just click on the image or by the word “Transcript” You will see a Share icon, a download option, a link to Apple podcast and you will see a magnifying glass Use the magnifying glass to search for any word. If that word was used in the episode, it will show up, highlighted in yellow. You will also see a timestamp so you can see the exact minute and second this word was spoken. If you click the word highlighted in yellow, the podcast player will start playing right at that word. You can stop it from playing by clicking the pause button.  Note: The transcription accuracy is about 90%, so you will see some spelling errors and errors in translation going from voice to print. We are excited to give our listeners a chance to play a role in shaping what topics we discuss, so please send us your ideas for college spotlights, articles for discussion and recommended resources. You can let your voice be heard by completing this survey. Just put the following link in your browser and give us your honest feedback. We thank you in advance. Every episode of Your College-Bound Kid will align with a chapter from the book 171 Answers to the Most-Asked College Admission Questions. To get a copy go to Amazon and click:   If you want to place a bulk order, you will save money by purchasing this book at 171answers.com. Every penny goes to The Atlanta Mission, a Christian organization that helps over 1000 homeless residents every day.  If you want to see what future episodes will discuss in the book chapter section,  just go to 171answers.com and then click the red button "See exactly what 171 Answers covers"

In this episode you will hear: (08:58) In this week’s news segment, an article from Forbes “Colleges Woo Students with Bargain Tuition Rates”, by Emma Whitford. Out of fear of drastic enrollment drops because of the pandemic, colleges are taking measures to entice students to apply and enroll. From freezing tuition hikes to tuition waivers for qualifying students, schools are doing what they can to address the revenue losses they hope to taper over the next few years.   (23:09) We’re in chapter 149 of 171 Answers and we’re talking through what the net price of a college is? We also discuss net price calculators.   (43:54) Bonus content! Ten more ways COVID-19 is changing college admissions this year, Part II.   (01:07:20) Mark shifts his interview with Dr. Lisa Rouff as they discuss ‘Mental Health Barriers that Keep Students from Achieving their Peak Performance’. Part 1 of 2   (01:15:20) Recommended resource:   This is a great website for seeing merit and need based awards that students received. It also provides other helpful data on each college.   Don't forget to send your questions related to any and every facet of the college process to: questions@yourcollegeboundkid.com If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful! To access and best utilize the transcripts of each podcast, please do the following: Go to  Click the Transcripts tab, from the top menu by the Episodes tab Click on the transcript for the specific episode you are interested in, just click on the image or by the word “Transcript” You will see a Share icon, a download option, a link to Apple podcast and you will see a magnifying glass Use the magnifying glass to search for any word. If that word was used in the episode, it will show up, highlighted in yellow. You will also see a timestamp so you can see the exact minute and second this word was spoken. If you click the word highlighted in yellow, the podcast player will start playing right at that word. You can stop it from playing by clicking the pause button.  Note: The transcription accuracy is about 90%, so you will see some spelling errors and errors in translation going from voice to print. We are excited to give our listeners a chance to play a role in shaping what topics we discuss, so please send us your ideas for college spotlights, articles for discussion and recommended resources. You can let your voice be heard by completing this survey. Just put the following link in your browser and give us your honest feedback. We thank you in advance. Every episode of Your College-Bound Kid will align with a chapter from the book 171 Answers to the Most-Asked College Admission Questions. To get a copy go to Amazon and click:   If you want to place a bulk order, you will save money by purchasing this book at 171answers.com. Every penny goes to The Atlanta Mission, a Christian organization that helps over 1000 homeless residents every day.  If you want to see what future episodes will discuss in the book chapter section,  just go to 171answers.com and then click the red button "See exactly what 171 Answers covers"

In this episode you will hear: (13:12) In this week’s news segment, an article from Forbes “The big college expense you probably didn’t know about and save for: mandatory health insurance”, by Bruce Brumberg. Colleges mandate students to not only have health insurance, but also that their plan has to meet the school’s coverage requirements. Colleges offer plans that can cost thousands for just one academic year and unfortunately are not doing well at informing families in advance of this additional, large cost.   (29:17) We’re in chapter 148 of 171 Answers and we’re talking through the cheapest way to attend college, if families are flat broke.   (41:52) Bonus content! How COVID-19 is changing college admissions this year. Mark will discuss this over the next three weeks, so this is Part 1 of 3.   (57:42) Mark concludes his interview with Dr. Lisa Rouff in ‘Careers in Mental Health Therapy’.   (01:02:34) Recommended resource: Mark’s favorite website for searching for scholarships is   (01:10:45) College spotlight: Williams College in Williamstown, Massachusetts ()   Don't forget to send your questions related to any and every facet of the college process to: questions@yourcollegeboundkid.com If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful!   To access and best utilize the transcripts of each podcast, please do the following: Go to  Click the Transcripts tab, from the top menu by the Episodes tab Click on the transcript for the specific episode you are interested in, just click on the image or by the word “Transcript” You will see a Share icon, a download option, a link to Apple podcast and you will see a magnifying glass Use the magnifying glass to search for any word. If that word was used in the episode, it will show up, highlighted in yellow. You will also see a timestamp so you can see the exact minute and second this word was spoken. If you click the word highlighted in yellow, the podcast player will start playing right at that word. You can stop it from playing by clicking the pause button.  Note: The transcription accuracy is about 90%, so you will see some spelling errors and errors in translation going from voice to print. We are excited to give our listeners a chance to play a role in shaping what topics we discuss, so please send us your ideas for college spotlights, articles for discussion and recommended resources. You can let your voice be heard by completing this survey. Just put the following link in your browser and give us your honest feedback. We thank you in advance. Every episode of Your College-Bound Kid will align with a chapter from the book 171 Answers to the Most-Asked College Admission Questions. To get a copy go to Amazon and click:   If you want to place a bulk order, you will save money by purchasing this book at 171answers.com. Every penny goes to The Atlanta Mission, a Christian organization that helps over 1000 homeless residents every day.  If you want to see what future episodes will discuss in the book chapter section,  just go to 171answers.com and then click the red button "See exactly what 171 Answers covers"

In this episode you will hear: (06:12) In this week’s news segment, an article from the Hechinger Report “When women studied with women, they persisted, study finds”, by Jill Barshay. A Swiss experiment involving more than 600 college students and 150 study groups found that the gender composition of the group impacted how well women performed.   (22:45) We’re in chapter 147 of 171 Answers and we’re discussing college payment plans. What are they? How do they work and how do they help?   (33:52) This week’s bonus content is part 2 of 2 on how colleges use waitlists. Mark builds off his insights last week where he shared two ways waitlists are used by sharing a few additional ways wait lists are used. Mark also talks about deferrals. What are deferrals, how are they different from waitlists and what should I do if I am deferred?   (58:55) Mark kicks off his interview with Dr. Lisa Rouff in ‘Careers in Mental Health Therapy’. This is a two-part interview and then Dr. Rouff will do another two-parter on mental barriers that keep students from functioning at their peak performance.   (01:06:43) Recommended resource: A non-profit organization that serves as an accrediting agency to validate the quality of academic program in areas like engineering, computer science, applied and natural sciences for associates, bachelors and masters programs   (01:17:20) College spotlight: Cornell College in Mt Vernon, Iowa ()   Don't forget to send your questions related to any and every facet of the college process to: questions@yourcollegeboundkid.com If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful! To access and best utilize the transcripts of each podcast, please do the following: Go to  Click the Transcripts tab, from the top menu by the Episodes tab Click on the transcript for the specific episode you are interested in, just click on the image or by the word “Transcript” You will see a Share icon, a download option, a link to Apple podcast and you will see a magnifying glass Use the magnifying glass to search for any word. If that word was used in the episode, it will show up, highlighted in yellow. You will also see a timestamp so you can see the exact minute and second this word was spoken. If you click the word highlighted in yellow, the podcast player will start playing right at that word. You can stop it from playing by clicking the pause button.  Note: The transcription accuracy is about 90%, so you will see some spelling errors and errors in translation going from voice to print. We are excited to give our listeners a chance to play a role in shaping what topics we discuss, so please send us your ideas for college spotlights, articles for discussion and recommended resources. You can let your voice be heard by completing this survey. Just put the following link in your browser and give us your honest feedback. We thank you in advance. Every episode of Your College-Bound Kid will align with a chapter from the book 171 Answers to the Most-Asked College Admission Questions. To get a copy go to Amazon and click:   If you want to place a bulk order, you will save money by purchasing this book at 171answers.com. Every penny goes to The Atlanta Mission, a Christian organization that helps over 1000 homeless residents every day.  If you want to see what future episodes will discuss in the book chapter section,  just go to 171answers.com and then click the red button "See exactly what 171 Answers covers"

In this episode you will hear: (06:20) In this week’s news segment, an article from the Hechinger Report “Another Problem with Shifting Education Online: Cheating”, by Derek Newton. When universities went online in response to COVID-19, so did the tests their students took. A person logged in at a well-known mid-Atlantic university to take their chemistry exam, except it turned out not to be the student at all.   (21:53) We’re in chapter 146 of 171 Answers and we’re discussing the importance of each college student who is receiving financial aid puts into developing a relationship with their financial aid officer. We discuss the reasons why this is so important.   (38:29) This week’s bonus content is part 1 of 2 on how colleges use waitlists. We discuss two different ways wait lists are used in this episode. Next week we will discuss several more ways wait lists are used.   (01:04:12) Mark wraps-up his interview with William Segura, Associate Dean at Emory in “Understanding Emory”, Part 2   (01:10:21) Recommended resource: The book, “The College Dropout Scandal” by David Kirp. This classic book looks at the reasons why 40% of students do not graduate from college even after six years. It discusses what changes colleges could make to change their graduation rate and it gives examples of colleges that are very successful at increasing their graduation rates.   College spotlight: Emory is our spotlight for the week   Don't forget to send your questions related to any and every facet of the college process to: questions@yourcollegeboundkid.com If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful! To access and best utilize the transcripts of each podcast, please do the following: Go to  Click the Transcripts tab, from the top menu by the Episodes tab Click on the transcript for the specific episode you are interested in, just click on the image or by the word “Transcript” You will see a Share icon, a download option, a link to Apple podcast and you will see a magnifying glass Use the magnifying glass to search for any word. If that word was used in the episode, it will show up, highlighted in yellow. You will also see a timestamp so you can see the exact minute and second this word was spoken. If you click the word highlighted in yellow, the podcast player will start playing right at that word. You can stop it from playing by clicking the pause button.  Note: The transcription accuracy is about 90%, so you will see some spelling errors and errors in translation going from voice to print. We are excited to give our listeners a chance to play a role in shaping what topics we discuss, so please send us your ideas for college spotlights, articles for discussion and recommended resources. You can let your voice be heard by completing this survey. Just put the following link in your browser and give us your honest feedback. We thank you in advance. Every episode of Your College-Bound Kid will align with a chapter from the book 171 Answers to the Most-Asked College Admission Questions. To get a copy go to Amazon and click:   If you want to place a bulk order, you will save money by purchasing this book at 171answers.com. Every penny goes to The Atlanta Mission, a Christian organization that helps over 1000 homeless residents every day.  If you want to see what future episodes will discuss in the book chapter section,  just go to 171answers.com and then click the red button "See exactly what 171 Answers covers"

In this episode you will hear: (06:07) In this week’s news segment, an article from the Hechinger Report “Enrollment and Financial Crises Threaten Growing List of Academic Disciplines”.  Small enrollments threaten the elimination of academic programs – deepening the impact of budget cuts due to the coronavirus.   (20:28) We’re in chapter 145 of 171 Answers and we’re talking through how to understand and compare financial aid awards. Mark shares some of the most common problems with aid awards.   This week’s bonus content is on how Early Action decision making has changed over the years.   (41:25) Mark continues his interview with William Segura, Associate Dean at Emory in “Understanding Emory”, Part I   (48:31) Recommended resource: The Department of Education’s website for studying crime and safety on each college campus: https://ope.ed.gov/campussafety/#/   College spotlight: Emory   Don't forget to send your questions related to any and every facet of the college process to: questions@yourcollegeboundkid.com If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful! To access and best utilize the transcripts of each podcast, please do the following: Go to  Click the Transcripts tab, from the top menu by the Episodes tab Click on the transcript for the specific episode you are interested in, just click on the image or by the word “Transcript” You will see a Share icon, a download option, a link to Apple podcast and you will see a magnifying glass Use the magnifying glass to search for any word. If that word was used in the episode, it will show up, highlighted in yellow. You will also see a timestamp so you can see the exact minute and second this word was spoken. If you click the word highlighted in yellow, the podcast player will start playing right at that word. You can stop it from playing by clicking the pause button.  Note: The transcription accuracy is about 90%, so you will see some spelling errors and errors in translation going from voice to print. We are excited to give our listeners a chance to play a role in shaping what topics we discuss, so please send us your ideas for college spotlights, articles for discussion and recommended resources. You can let your voice be heard by completing this survey. Just put the following link in your browser and give us your honest feedback. We thank you in advance. Every episode of Your College-Bound Kid will align with a chapter from the book 171 Answers to the Most-Asked College Admission Questions. To get a copy go to Amazon and click:   If you want to place a bulk order, you will save money by purchasing this book at 171answers.com. Every penny goes to The Atlanta Mission, a Christian organization that helps over 1000 homeless residents every day.  If you want to see what future episodes will discuss in the book chapter section,  just go to 171answers.com and then click the red button "See exactly what 171 Answers covers"

In this episode you will hear: (03:39) In this week’s news segment, an article from The Schools “American College Students Look North to Canada – and Savings”.  American students shopping for colleges look to Canada for relief from heavy tuition costs along with the relief from ugly American politics.   (22:38) We’re in chapter 144 of 171 Answers and we’re explaining what it means when a college says that they meet full demonstrated need.   (42:40) This week’s bonus content is on why colleges use demonstrated interest to help in their planning – especially now in this pandemic era.   (01:01:02) Mark concludes his interview with William Segura, Associate Dean at Emory in “Understanding 3 models of decision making for admission committees”   (01:09:25) Recommended resource: College Beyond the States: European Schools That Will Change Your Life Without Breaking the Bank   (01:16:46) College spotlight: University of Delaware (UDel.edu)   Don't forget to send your questions related to any and every facet of the college process to: questions@yourcollegeboundkid.com If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful! To access and best utilize the transcripts of each podcast, please do the following: Go to  Click the Transcripts tab, from the top menu by the Episodes tab Click on the transcript for the specific episode you are interested in, just click on the image or by the word “Transcript” You will see a Share icon, a download option, a link to Apple podcast and you will see a magnifying glass Use the magnifying glass to search for any word. If that word was used in the episode, it will show up, highlighted in yellow. You will also see a timestamp so you can see the exact minute and second this word was spoken. If you click the word highlighted in yellow, the podcast player will start playing right at that word. You can stop it from playing by clicking the pause button.  Note: The transcription accuracy is about 90%, so you will see some spelling errors and errors in translation going from voice to print. We are excited to give our listeners a chance to play a role in shaping what topics we discuss, so please send us your ideas for college spotlights, articles for discussion and recommended resources. You can let your voice be heard by completing this survey. Just put the following link in your browser and give us your honest feedback. We thank you in advance. Every episode of Your College-Bound Kid will align with a chapter from the book 171 Answers to the Most-Asked College Admission Questions. To get a copy go to Amazon and click:   If you want to place a bulk order, you will save money by purchasing this book at 171answers.com. Every penny goes to The Atlanta Mission, a Christian organization that helps over 1000 homeless residents every day.  If you want to see what future episodes will discuss in the book chapter section,  just go to 171answers.com and then click the red button "See exactly what 171 Answers covers"

In this episode you will hear: (07:10) In this week’s news segment, an article from The Washington Post “Top colleges should grow, rather than crow about rejecting nearly everyone” by Jay Matthews.  Matthews shares what he considers the most compelling reasons Jeff Selingo gives for colleges to consider serious reform against rigid admissions criteria. Mark and Dave discuss whether they agree with Selingo and whether or not these ideas are realistic.   (37:53) We’re in chapter 143 of 171 Answers and we’re talking through need-blind and need-aware admissions. Mark and Anika discuss the differences between need-blind and need-aware admissions and Mark shares the advantages and disadvantages to each approach to admitting students.   (57:21) This week’s bonus content is on 10 ways to visit a college virtually.  Mark flies solo here after Mark and Anika had some tech issues and then Anika came down sick, but Mark shares multiple ways to engage a college and their programming from your own home and from your own computer or phone.   (01:11:27) Mark continues his interview with William Segura, Associate Dean at Emory in “Understanding 3 models of decision making for admission committees”   (01:20:38) Recommended resource:   This is a fantastic website if you want to explore going to college in Europe.   (01:32:48) College spotlight: James Madison University ()   Don't forget to send your questions related to any and every facet of the college process to: questions@yourcollegeboundkid.com If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful! To access and best utilize the transcripts of each podcast, please do the following: Go to  Click the Transcripts tab, from the top menu by the Episodes tab Click on the transcript for the specific episode you are interested in, just click on the image or by the word “Transcript” You will see a Share icon, a download option, a link to Apple podcast and you will see a magnifying glass Use the magnifying glass to search for any word. If that word was used in the episode, it will show up, highlighted in yellow. You will also see a timestamp so you can see the exact minute and second this word was spoken. If you click the word highlighted in yellow, the podcast player will start playing right at that word. You can stop it from playing by clicking the pause button.  Note: The transcription accuracy is about 90%, so you will see some spelling errors and errors in translation going from voice to print. We are excited to give our listeners a chance to play a role in shaping what topics we discuss, so please send us your ideas for college spotlights, articles for discussion and recommended resources. You can let your voice be heard by completing this survey. Just put the following link in your browser and give us your honest feedback. We thank you in advance. Every episode of Your College-Bound Kid will align with a chapter from the book 171 Answers to the Most-Asked College Admission Questions. To get a copy go to Amazon and click:   If you want to place a bulk order, you will save money by purchasing this book at 171answers.com. Every penny goes to The Atlanta Mission, a Christian organization that helps over 1000 homeless residents every day.  If you want to see what future episodes will discuss in the book chapter section,  just go to 171answers.com and then click the red button "See exactly what 171 Answers covers"

In this episode you will hear: (05:02) In this week’s news segment, an article from The Wall Street Journal, “U.S. Medical School Applications Soar in COVID-19 Era” by Patrick Thomas.  The pandemic has placed a spotlight on the healthcare industry and medical schools are reporting record numbers in applications. Prospective students have shared reasons for the heightened interest based on wanting to address pronounced healthcare disparities and the heroic status of frontline workers, all brought on by the coronavirus.   (28:15) We’re in chapter 142 of 171 Answers and we’re talking through priority deadlines and why they are important.   (43:14) This week’s bonus content looks at why admission directors are nervous about their Early Decision numbers and what they are going to do about it.   (01:08:01) Mark kicks off his interview with William Segura, Associate Dean at Emory in “Understanding 3 models of decision making for admission committees”   (01:14:56) Recommended resource: The best CSS PROFILE Walkthrough Mark has seen. It is by Gail Holt, Dean of Financial Aid at Amherst and she does this for MEFA. You can access this webinar under the video section of MEFA.org or on MEFA YouTube Channel, but here is a link: . MEFA did a second CSS PROFILE Walkthrough that I also recommend. Here it is:   (01:27:03) College spotlight: Ball State in Muncie Indiana (bsu.edu)   Don't forget to send your questions related to any and every facet of the college process to: questions@yourcollegeboundkid.com If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful! To access and best utilize the transcripts of each podcast, please do the following: Go to  Click the Transcripts tab, from the top menu by the Episodes tab Click on the transcript for the specific episode you are interested in, just click on the image or by the word “Transcript” You will see a Share icon, a download option, a link to Apple podcast and you will see a magnifying glass Use the magnifying glass to search for any word. If that word was used in the episode, it will show up, highlighted in yellow. You will also see a timestamp so you can see the exact minute and second this word was spoken. If you click the word highlighted in yellow, the podcast player will start playing right at that word. You can stop it from playing by clicking the pause button.  Note: The transcription accuracy is about 90%, so you will see some spelling errors and errors in translation going from voice to print. We are excited to give our listeners a chance to play a role in shaping what topics we discuss, so please send us your ideas for college spotlights, articles for discussion and recommended resources. You can let your voice be heard by completing this survey. Just put the following link in your browser and give us your honest feedback. We thank you in advance. Every episode of Your College-Bound Kid will align with a chapter from the book 171 Answers to the Most-Asked College Admission Questions. To get a copy go to Amazon and click:   If you want to place a bulk order, you will save money by purchasing this book at 171answers.com. Every penny goes to The Atlanta Mission, a Christian organization that helps over 1000 homeless residents every day.  If you want to see what future episodes will discuss in the book chapter section,  just go to 171answers.com and then click the red button "See exactly what 171 Answers covers"

In this episode you will hear: (08:41) In this week’s news segment, an article from Insider Higher Ed, “2020 Survey of Admissions Leaders: A Mess of a Year” by Scott Jaschik.  A new Gallup survey reveals heightened concerns among colleges and universities meeting their enrollment goals that was already difficult prior to COVID-19.   (39:38) We’re in chapter 141 of 171 Answers and we’re talking about how endowments impacts the resources a college has to invest in its students.   (56:42) This week’s question is from Suzanne in Oregon and she is asking Mark to address how high school dual credit programs are evaluated by colleges.   (01:13:20) Mark concludes his interview with Sam Prouty, Director of Admissions at Middlebury College in Part II of II on a spotlight on the college.   (01:19:39) Recommended resource: Mark’s favorite resource for helping students and parents with the 2021-22 FAFSA; it is a complete FAFSA Walkthrough by Utah Higher Education Assistance Authority (UHEAA); here is the link:   College spotlight: none   Don't forget to send your questions related to any and every facet of the college process to: questions@yourcollegeboundkid.com If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful! To access and best utilize the transcripts of each podcast, please do the following: Go to  Click the Transcripts tab, from the top menu by the Episodes tab Click on the transcript for the specific episode you are interested in, just click on the image or by the word “Transcript” You will see a Share icon, a download option, a link to Apple podcast and you will see a magnifying glass Use the magnifying glass to search for any word. If that word was used in the episode, it will show up, highlighted in yellow. You will also see a timestamp so you can see the exact minute and second this word was spoken. If you click the word highlighted in yellow, the podcast player will start playing right at that word. You can stop it from playing by clicking the pause button.  Note: The transcription accuracy is about 90%, so you will see some spelling errors and errors in translation going from voice to print. We are excited to give our listeners a chance to play a role in shaping what topics we discuss, so please send us your ideas for college spotlights, articles for discussion and recommended resources. You can let your voice be heard by completing this survey. Just put the following link in your browser and give us your honest feedback. We thank you in advance. Every episode of Your College-Bound Kid will align with a chapter from the book 171 Answers to the Most-Asked College Admission Questions. To get a copy go to Amazon and click:   If you want to place a bulk order, you will save money by purchasing this book at 171answers.com. Every penny goes to The Atlanta Mission, a Christian organization that helps over 1000 homeless residents every day.  If you want to see what future episodes will discuss in the book chapter section,  just go to 171answers.com and then click the red button "See exactly what 171 Answers covers"

In this episode you will hear: (13:34) In this week’s news segment, an article from the Washington Post, “College applicants will make the pandemic a focus of their admissions essays. Should they?” by Valerie Strauss.  Students may be compelled to use the pandemic as the central theme of their essays however, two college admissions experts provide a clear reminder on how the essay is used by admissions staff. Mark and Dave discuss the key takeaways from the articles.   (27:50) We’re in chapter 140 of 171 Answers and we’re talking through federal work-study jobs for students who complete the FAFSA. What is Federal Work-Study, who qualifies, how much do they get and how can they maximize this opportunity.   (45:44) In our bonus content for this week, Mark got to ask questions to the Yale admissions office and he’s sharing his top 5 that he thought would be of most interest to YCBK listeners. The key to these answers is that they apply to so many other schools.   (01:08:19) Mark continues his interview with Sam Prouty, Director of Admissions at Middlebury College in Part I of II on a spotlight on Middlebury college.   (01:14:50) Recommended resource: The new podcast: Inside the Yale Admissions office   College spotlight: none   Don't forget to send your questions related to any and every facet of the college process to: questions@yourcollegeboundkid.com If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful! To access and best utilize the transcripts of each podcast, please do the following: Go to  Click the Transcripts tab, from the top menu by the Episodes tab Click on the transcript for the specific episode you are interested in, just click on the image or by the word “Transcript” You will see a Share icon, a download option, a link to Apple podcast and you will see a magnifying glass Use the magnifying glass to search for any word. If that word was used in the episode, it will show up, highlighted in yellow. You will also see a timestamp so you can see the exact minute and second this word was spoken. If you click the word highlighted in yellow, the podcast player will start playing right at that word. You can stop it from playing by clicking the pause button.  Note: The transcription accuracy is about 90%, so you will see some spelling errors and errors in translation going from voice to print. We are excited to give our listeners a chance to play a role in shaping what topics we discuss, so please send us your ideas for college spotlights, articles for discussion and recommended resources. You can let your voice be heard by completing this survey. Just put the following link in your browser and give us your honest feedback. We thank you in advance. Every episode of Your College-Bound Kid will align with a chapter from the book 171 Answers to the Most-Asked College Admission Questions. To get a copy go to Amazon and click:   If you want to place a bulk order, you will save money by purchasing this book at 171answers.com. Every penny goes to The Atlanta Mission, a Christian organization that helps over 1000 homeless residents every day.  If you want to see what future episodes will discuss in the book chapter section,  just go to 171answers.com and then click the red button "See exactly what 171 Answers covers"

In this episode you will hear: (10:05) In this week’s news segment, an article from listwithclever.com, “Reality Check: Exploring Unrealistic Undergraduate Salary Expectations”, by Thomas O’Shaughnessy.  Recent graduates are entering the workforce and facing a rude awakening as to what their early and mid-career salaries are actually panning out to be.   (31:34) We’re in chapter 139 of 171 Answers and Mark dives deep into how regional college tuition discounts work. What are these tuition discounts? Who is eligible for them and how do you get them?   (53:51) This week’s question is from Annalisa from New York. She noticed Mark quoted what percentage of applicants were test-optional per college and she wants to know how she can get this information for each college.   (01:10:36) Mark concludes his interview with Sam Prouty, Director of Admissions at Middlebury College in ‘debunking stereotypes about more remote college’.   (01:21:02) Recommended resource: Mark’s favorite website for researching the surrounding area around the college:   College spotlight: Resumes with Middlebury College next week   Don't forget to send your questions related to any and every facet of the college process to: questions@yourcollegeboundkid.com If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful! To access and best utilize the transcripts of each podcast, please do the following: Go to  Click the Transcripts tab, from the top menu by the Episodes tab Click on the transcript for the specific episode you are interested in, just click on the image or by the word “Transcript” You will see a Share icon, a download option, a link to Apple podcast and you will see a magnifying glass Use the magnifying glass to search for any word. If that word was used in the episode, it will show up, highlighted in yellow. You will also see a timestamp so you can see the exact minute and second this word was spoken. If you click the word highlighted in yellow, the podcast player will start playing right at that word. You can stop it from playing by clicking the pause button.  Note: The transcription accuracy is about 90%, so you will see some spelling errors and errors in translation going from voice to print. We are excited to give our listeners a chance to play a role in shaping what topics we discuss, so please send us your ideas for college spotlights, articles for discussion and recommended resources. You can let your voice be heard by completing this survey. Just put the following link in your browser and give us your honest feedback. We thank you in advance. Every episode of Your College-Bound Kid will align with a chapter from the book 171 Answers to the Most-Asked College Admission Questions. To get a copy go to Amazon and click:   If you want to place a bulk order, you will save money by purchasing this book at 171answers.com. Every penny goes to The Atlanta Mission, a Christian organization that helps over 1000 homeless residents every day.  If you want to see what future episodes will discuss in the book chapter section,  just go to 171answers.com and then click the red button "See exactly what 171 Answers covers"

During last month's Citygate Network Conference, Shawn Saunders (Dickerson Bakker & Associates) and I got to sit down with Dan Balena of Atlanta Mission and talk about how he and the team at Atlanta Mission have energized their major gift program. After a long and successful corporate career at IBM, Dan felt called to the work of ministry, and later discovered that his skills and experience were a great fit for major gift work. In our conversation he talks about the way Atlanta Mission is engaging donors, telling better stories, and working to bring renewed excitement to the relationships they have with their donors -- all in support of changing the lives of people in need throughout the Atlanta area. s Download the show transcript here

At this moment, I'm looking at a web site that says these startling words: TONIGHT, UP TO 7,000 PEOPLE FACE HOMELESSNESS IN METRO ATLANTA. Jim Reese is the President and CEO of the Atlanta Mission, and he's with me, today. Jim, I'm inspired by how Atlanta Mission transforms, through Christ, the lives of those facing homelessness. Last year, alone, the Atlanta Mission: · made available more than 237,534 nights of shelter provided for individuals, and · helped more than 175 people obtain employment. And true to your calling last year, the Atlanta Mission ended Homelessness for 491 people. Jim, you and I know that this kind of impactful, life-changing ministry work begins with the people, the culture, of the Atlanta Mission. Find full show notes here http://blog.bcwinstitute.org/s3e30-jim-reese-atlanta-mission/

Matthew Hermes and McClain Hermes McClain Hermes and her father Matt began Shoes for the Souls as a small service project in 2009. The first year she collected and donated 365 pairs of new and slightly used shoes to the Atlanta Mission, which serves homeless men, women, and children. That “small service project” started by an eight […] The post Shoes for the Souls appeared first on Business RadioX ®.