Podcasts about FAFSA

Planning for college involves important decisions, especially when it comes to financing and financial aid. In this episode, we discuss the FAFSA process with Matt Wallace, Vice President of Education & Career Pathways at Granite Edvance. We cover essential tips for completing the FAFSA, upcoming changes to streamline the filing process, and valuable resources for parents and students to ensure a smooth experience. Links: Access free resources, book one-on-one appointments, and find links to helpful tools and guides: Get Our Help - Granite Edvance Get in touch with Granite Edvance: Contact Us - Granite Edvance Book appointment: Calendly - Granite Edvance Explore various financial aid resources: Resource Library - Granite Edvance Check out Granite Edvance's YouTube Channel: Granite Edvance - YouTube Visiting studentaid.gov for official FAFSA forms and helpful wizards to determine dependency status and required contributors Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter! Learn more about Triangle Credit Union   **The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker's own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of Granite Edvance. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only and is believed to be materially accurate at the time of this recording; however, information presented is subject to change without notice and should not be construed as a commitment by Granite Edvance.  

Markets are having to digest a lot right now. There's the government shutdown, plus new private payroll data showing the economy lost jobs in September. Susan Schmidt, portfolio manager at Exchange Capital Resources, joins us to break it down. Also on the show: the FAFSA portal is open. We look at what's different with this year's federal student aid applications and how the government shutdown could impact the process. Then, Marketplace's Sabri Ben-Achour continues his conversation with Susan M. Collins, head of the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston.

Markets are having to digest a lot right now. There's the government shutdown, plus new private payroll data showing the economy lost jobs in September. Susan Schmidt, portfolio manager at Exchange Capital Resources, joins us to break it down. Also on the show: the FAFSA portal is open. We look at what's different with this year's federal student aid applications and how the government shutdown could impact the process. Then, Marketplace's Sabri Ben-Achour continues his conversation with Susan M. Collins, head of the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston.

AP correspondent Donna Warder reports on how the government shutdown will affect the Education Department.

On today's episode: How the government shutdown will affect student loans, FAFSA and the Education Dept. At least 69 people killed in a powerful earthquake that hit the Philippines. The Taliban government in Afghanistan rejects reports of a nationwide internet ban. Hurricanes Humberto and Imelda charge toward Bermuda as the tiny island prepares. Government shutdown begins as nation faces new period of uncertainty. Court disqualifies Trump-appointed US attorney in Nevada from overseeing multiple criminal cases. Trump pulls nomination of E.J. Antoni to lead Bureau of Labor Statistics, AP source says. FBI boss Kash Patel gave New Zealand officials 3D-printed guns illegal to possess under local laws. Trump calls for using US cities as 'training ground' for military in unusual speech to generals. Judge finds Trump administration unconstitutionally targeted noncitizens over Gaza war protests. Nicole Kidman files for divorce from Keith Urban after 19 years of marriage. Record 13th Florida execution this year carried out on man convicted of killing a couple. Wall Street yawns at DC's looming shutdown as the Dow sets another record. US consumer confidence declines again as Americans fret over prices, job market. Shohei Ohtani jump-starts the Dodgers’ World Series title defense, the Cubs, Tigers and Red Sox also win their wild-card openers, Las Vegas punches its ticket back to the WNBA Finals against Phoenix, and a record contract extension in the NHL.  MLB spending disparity on display in playoffs as $509 million Dodgers take on $121 million Reds. Napheesa Collier tells of private chat with Engelbert that she said exposed a problematic leader. Indonesian rescue workers 'racing against time' in search for dozens in rubble of collapsed school. Strong earthquake in central Philippines sends people out of homes and sparks local tsunami warning. Germany's chancellor Friedrich Merz says President Donald Trump's plan is the best chance for ending the war between Israel and Hamas. Ukrainian detained in Poland over 2022 Nord Stream gas pipeline explosions. —The Associated Press About this program Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate. Theme music The News Tonight, used under license from Soundstripe. YouTube clearance: ZR2MOTROGI4XAHRX

Lance Roberts examines one of the most reliable technical analysis tools investors use to measure market risk: the Relative Strength Index (RSI). The RSI helps identify when markets are overbought, oversold, or diverging from price action. While RSI is not a perfect “buy or sell” signal, it is a powerful guardrail for risk management. History shows that overbought conditions can persist much longer than expected, but when momentum fades, corrections can arrive suddenly.

Lance Roberts examines one of the most reliable technical analysis tools investors use to measure market risk: the Relative Strength Index (RSI). The RSI helps identify when markets are overbought, oversold, or diverging from price action. While RSI is not a perfect “buy or sell” signal, it is a powerful guardrail for risk management. History shows that overbought conditions can persist much longer than expected, but when momentum fades, corrections can arrive suddenly.

GDP Script/ Top Stories for September 27th Publish Date: September 27th PRE-ROLL: From the BG AD Group Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. Today is Saturday, September 27th and Happy Birthday to Meatloaf I’m Peyton Spurlock and here are your top stories presented by Gwinnett KIA Mall of Georgia. It's Back — Magical Nights of Lights returns to Lanier Islands Magazine still rates Georgia No. 1 for business Three of Georgia’s top higher education institutions retain high rankings All of this and more is coming up on the Gwinnett Daily Post podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen daily and subscribe! Break 1: 07.14.22 KIA MOG STORY 1: It's Back — Magical Nights of Lights returns to Lanier Islands After a five-year break, one of Georgia’s most cherished holiday traditions is finally back. Lanier Islands Resort announced Thursday that Magical Nights of Lights will return for the 2025 holiday season, promising a reimagined experience that’s bigger, brighter, and, well, just plain magical. From Nov. 15 to Jan. 4, 2026, the lakeside resort will transform into a glowing wonderland. Picture this: miles of twinkling lights, animated displays, and Christmas carols playing through your car radio. Classic favorites like Candy Cane Lane and the 12 Days of Christmas are back, but there’s new fun too—Pickleball Elves, anyone? The tour ends with two festive stops: Holiday Headquarters (think mulled wine, s’mores, and axe throwing) and License to Chill Snow Island, complete with snow tubing and ice skating. Tickets start at $25 per car, and overnight guests get a free light tour. STORY 2: Magazine still rates Georgia No. 1 for business For the 12th year running, Georgia has snagged the top spot on Area Development Magazine’s list of best states for doing business. A dozen years—pretty impressive, right? The magazine pointed to affordable housing, reliable child care, and solid transportation as key reasons for the streak. Southern states dominated the rankings, with Georgia leading the pack, followed by South Carolina, Texas, and North Carolina. Gov. Brian Kemp credited the win to teamwork between state leaders and local communities, while the Georgia Chamber of Commerce called the state the “economic envy of the nation.” But the game is changing. Tax breaks and cheap land aren’t enough anymore. Companies are eyeing climate risks, water access, and long-term resilience. Georgia, the magazine noted, is already ahead in those areas. It’s not just about business—it’s about building a place where people want to live, work, and stay. STORY 3: Three of Georgia’s top higher education institutions retain high rankings Georgia’s top universities are holding their own in the 2026 U.S. News rankings, with all three—Georgia Tech, UGA, and Emory—landing in the top 100. Tech climbed to 32nd, tied with NYU and two California public schools. UGA stayed steady at 46th, sharing the spot with four others. Emory? Sitting pretty at 24th, right alongside Georgetown. The rankings factor in everything from graduation rates to faculty pay to post-grad earnings. And in specific fields? Georgia schools shine. Emory’s nursing program is second only to Duke. Tech’s environmental and industrial programs are No. 1, and UGA’s insurance program? Best in the nation. For in-state students, Tech and UGA are a steal at just over $10,000 a year. Out-of-state? Triple that. Emory, though, comes with a hefty $70,000 price tag. Worth it? Depends who you ask. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info. We’ll be right back Break 2: CITY OF SUGAR HILL STORY 4: Police: Woman stabbed to death at home near Stone Mountain Gwinnett County police are investigating after a woman was fatally stabbed Thursday in what appears to be a domestic violence case. Officers responded to a call around 4:30 p.m. about a person down at a home on Deshong Drive, near the Gwinnett-DeKalb County line. Inside, they found a woman who had died from stab wounds. A female relative was detained elsewhere in Gwinnett, and detectives are questioning her. The victim’s name hasn’t been released yet, pending notification of her family. Anyone with information can contact detectives or Crime Stoppers for a possible cash reward. STORY 5: Housing Matters: Conversion of extended-stay hotel to affordable housing to begin soon A vacant Extended Stay America off Jimmy Carter Boulevard is getting a second life. Starting in December, it’ll be transformed into affordable housing for seniors, homeless youth, and young adults aging out of foster care. Gwinnett County and the Gwinnett Housing Corporation bought the property in February for $14.5 million, using funds from the Affordable Housing Development Fund and the American Rescue Plan. Units will be for single or double occupancy, with rents about $500 below market. Leasing starts in 2026. Break 3: STORY 6: Duluth Fall Festival returns this weekend The 42nd Duluth Fall Festival is back this weekend, and it’s pulling out all the stops—over 180 arts and crafts vendors, 40+ food booths, and nearly two dozen performers spread across two stages. It’s a lot. Festivities kick off Saturday at 10 a.m. with the parade, which some say is the biggest in Gwinnett. After that? The opening ceremony at the Festival Center Amphitheater, followed by nonstop entertainment on the Festival Center and Parsons Alley stages. Sunday starts early with the Donut Dash 5K at 8 a.m. and a church service at 10 a.m. Parking? It’s tight. Use the free shuttles from local schools. And leave the pets at home—it’s hot, crowded, and not ideal for furry friends. Proceeds go straight back into the community, funding everything from downtown beautification to nonprofits like Rainbow Village and Spectrum Autism Center. Details at duluthfallfestival.org. STORY 7: FAFSA application now open for current and future GGC students For Georgia Gwinnett College students, the road to scholarships, grants, and financial aid starts now—FAFSA for the 2026–2027 school year is officially open. FAFSA isn’t just a form; it’s the key to federal grants, work-study gigs, and loans. Plus, state and school aid programs use it to figure out who qualifies for what. The earlier you file, the better your chances of snagging the most aid. Need help? The Grizzly Welcome Center (Building D) is open weekdays to guide students through the process. Pro tip: File ASAP. We’ll have closing comments after this Break 4: Ingles Markets 5 Signoff – Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at www.gwinnettdailypost.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: ingles-markets.com kiamallofga.com #NewsPodcast #CurrentEvents #TopHeadlines #BreakingNews #PodcastDiscussion #PodcastNews #InDepthAnalysis #NewsAnalysis #PodcastTrending #WorldNews #LocalNews #GlobalNews #PodcastInsights #NewsBrief #PodcastUpdate #NewsRoundup #WeeklyNews #DailyNews #PodcastInterviews #HotTopics #PodcastOpinions #InvestigativeJournalism #BehindTheHeadlines #PodcastMedia #NewsStories #PodcastReports #JournalismMatters #PodcastPerspectives #NewsCommentary #PodcastListeners #NewsPodcastCommunity #NewsSource #PodcastCuration #WorldAffairs #PodcastUpdates #AudioNews #PodcastJournalism #EmergingStories #NewsFlash #PodcastConversationsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

College planning season is here — and the last quarter of 2025 brings critical deadlines for students and parents. Jonathan Penn and Sarah Buenger break down what you need to know about FAFSA, scholarships, and smart funding strategies for higher education.

College planning season is here — and the last quarter of 2025 brings critical deadlines for students and parents. Jonathan Penn and Sarah Buenger break down what you need to know about FAFSA, scholarships, and smart funding strategies for higher education.

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Learn how to prepare for a government shutdown and where to put $600 a month after building your emergency fund. What happens in a federal government shutdown? Where should you put $600/month after funding an emergency cushion? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss the looming shutdown before answering a listener's question about where to allocate their extra income. They begin with senior news writer Anna Helhoski, breaking down how a lapse in government funding could affect benefits, travel, parks, mail, and taxes, and how to keep your own plan steady. Then, Elizabeth and Sean answer a listener's question about how to think about allocating $600/month. They discuss automating IRA/solo 401(k)/SEP IRA contributions, using diversified index or mutual funds and a taxable brokerage, balancing a home down payment with retirement via time horizons and DTI/credit score, and what to look for in funds. They also explore how habit-building and automation can help you grow retirement savings while still working toward a down payment. Get matched with a financial advisor for free: https://www.nerdwallet.com/l/advisor-match-financial  Are you on track to save enough for retirement? Use NerdWallet's free calculator to check your progress, see how much retirement income you'll have and estimate how much more you should save: https://www.nerdwallet.com/calculator/retirement-calculator  Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: Social Security during shutdown, TSA delays shutdown, Medicare during shutdown, Medicaid during shutdown, WIC benefits shutdown, IRS refund delays, FAFSA processing delay, federal employees furlough, furloughed vs essential workers, continuing resolution, national park closures shutdown, food safety inspections shutdown, EPA inspections shutdown, FDA inspections shutdown, NIH grants shutdown, unemployment benefits shutdown, debt-to-income ratio mortgage, mortgage approval process, credit score mortgage requirement, down payment savings strategy, closing costs when buying a home, emergency savings for home repairs, retirement calculator, 15 percent retirement savings rule, ETF vs mutual fund, S&P 500 index fund, expense ratio explained, index fund performance history, index fund tracking error, taxable brokerage account basics, diversification in investing, automate retirement contributions, solo 401k contribution limit, and SEP IRA contribution limit. To send the Nerds your money questions, call or text the Nerd hotline at 901-730-6373 or email podcast@nerdwallet.com. Like what you hear? Please leave us a review and tell a friend. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What's new with financial aid? A lot. In this episode, we welcome back returning guest Jeff Levy, Co-Founder of Big J Educational Consulting, who's been an educational consultant since 2007. Hear the latest changes impacting financial aid, the key deadlines for the FAFSA application and CSS Profile, how common full ride scholarships actually are, things to keep in mind when saving for college as it relates to financial aid, and how to maximize your potential for merit aid. Check out Jeff's resources at BigJEducationalConsulting.com and connect with him on LinkedIn, and Subscribe to College Bound Mentor on your favorite podcast platform and learn more at CollegeBoundMentor.com

Join Marketing and Public Relations Specialist Liz Calvery and Northeast President Dr. Ricky G. Ford as they dive into what truly sets Northeast Mississippi Community College apart from other colleges and universities -- including four-year institutions. Ford shares how Northeast creates a close-knit, “family” atmosphere where everyone knows a person's name, values their story, and supports their success. From the low faculty-to-student ratio and engaging student events that make college life memorable, to the value of paying less than one-third the cost of a four-year institution while receiving the same -- or even better -- education, students and parents discover every day why Northeast is one of the nation's premier community colleges. Plus, stay up to date on the latest in athletics, academics, workforce development, and campus life in each episode of TigerTalk.

Divorce makes college planning more complex. In this episode, Vicki explains the 2024 FAFSA changes, student loan rules, and how to find scholarships that actually make a difference. She also shares client stories where strategic planning saved families thousands—even hundreds of thousands—on college costs. What you'll learn Why the parent providing more financial support (not the custodial parent) now files the FAFSA  How CSS Profile schools may require financial info from both households Student loan basics: limits, subsidized vs. unsubsidized, and upcoming changes for parents Smart scholarship strategies—what to prioritize, what to skip, and how to avoid wasted effort The impact of remarriage on financial aid and why timing matters With the right strategy, you can lower college costs, protect your retirement, and reduce conflict during and after divorce. You don't have to figure this out alone.

This week on “Off The Cuff,” Melanie, Karen, and Hugh discuss several pertinent September deadlines impacting higher education. First, Hugh catches listeners up on where things stand with the annual appropriations cycle and how Congress is faring with the September 30 funding deadline. Then Karen explains how the upcoming negotiated rulemaking (NegReg) session could be impacted should there be a federal funding lapse, and goes on to talk about two institutional reporting deadlines for gainful employment (GE) and financial value transparency (FVT). Melanie then wraps things up, highlighting a recent Government Accountability Office (GAO) report with key takeaways concerning the FAFSA system.

In this conversation, Dayle from Homeschool Minnesota interviews financial aid consultant Howard Freedman about the complexities of college applications and financing. They discuss common mistakes parents make when saving for college, the importance of understanding various college options, and how to reduce anxiety in the college process. Howard emphasizes the need for effective communication between parents and students regarding financial decisions and offers insights into what families can expect during a consultation with him.   Links: To visit Howard's website and to order his book:  https://www.financialaidconsulting.com/   To contact Homeschool Minnesota--MÂCHÉ:  https://mache.org/   Chapters 00:00 Navigating College Applications and Financial Aid 05:26 Common Mistakes in College Financing 09:39 Understanding College Options and Opportunities 13:22 Addressing Financial Constraints for College 17:34 Reducing Anxiety in the College Process 20:41 Effective Communication Between Parents and Students 26:33 Consultation Insights with Howard Freedman     college applications, financial aid, scholarships, FAFSA, college financing, student loans, college options, anxiety reduction, parent-student communication, education planning        

In this episode of the TigerTalk Podcast, Marketing and Public Relations Specialist Liz Calvery sits down with Northeast Mississippi Community College President Dr. Ricky G. Ford to explore how Northeast is putting the word “community” back into community college. From Booneville to the five-county service district of Alcorn, Prentiss, Tippah, Tishomingo, and Union counties, Northeast continues to strengthen its role as a vital part of the region. Dr. Ford highlights the college's outreach efforts, its role in fostering workforce development through an educated labor force, and how that growth attracts new industries to northeast Mississippi. He also shares how Northeast supports families' hopes for a brighter future by equipping students with the education and skills they need to secure better-paying jobs. With its roots in community support and its ongoing mission to serve, Northeast remains committed to finding new ways to be a cornerstone in every community it touches. Plus, get the latest updates on athletics, academics, workforce development, and everything happening at one of the nation's premier community colleges.

In recognition of National Hispanic Heritage Month 2025, Latina Today Podcast and Hispanic Chamber Cincinnati USA have launched Rooted Leadership / Liderazgo Arraigado, an initiative dedicated to highlighting the narratives that inspire Latino-rooted leadership, accomplishments, legacies, and lived experiences from across the United States. In an inspiring interview, Lorena Mora-Mowry engages in a conversation with Mayra Camarena, a remarkable student who embodies the essence of rooted leadership. Mayra is currently enrolled at Gateway Community & Technical College, where she is pursuing a Nursing certificate. In addition to her academic pursuits, she works as a Patient Care Assistant at St. Elizabeth's Hospital in Florence, Kentucky. During the interview, Mayra discusses her upbringing and cultural background, which have shaped her life. In 2020, she commenced her first semester in pre-medicine. Since no family member had previously pursued higher education, she was unfamiliar with scholarship opportunities and solely relied on FAFSA, securing a loan for the remaining expenses. Consequently, Mayra accumulated a debt of $50,000. Tragically, her single mother fell ill and was unable to continue working. In response to her mother's encouragement, Mayra resolved to resume her nursing studies in the fall of 2024, following a three-and-a-half-year hiatus. As the sole financial provider for her household, she must concurrently pursue full-time employment and academic commitments. Gradually, she aspires to acquire a nursing certificate while harboring aspirations of becoming a nurse practitioner, fulfilling her childhood aspiration of becoming a physician. As a member of the Latino community, Mayra advises, “Embrace your identity and heritage. Recognize the sacrifices made by others for your better life. Let this inspire your actions. Engage in activities that resonate with you, share your experiences, and educate others to the best of your abilities. Do not succumb to setbacks, as I did when I had to pause my life for a period. However, I believe that part of what it means to be Latino is to persevere and overcome challenges. Embrace your resilience and return stronger, allowing it to guide your future.” Mayra's narrative exemplifies the indomitable human spirit's capacity to overcome adversity and pursue higher education. It also demonstrates the ability to adapt and make necessary adjustments in the face of challenges. Furthermore, it underscores the profound impact and support that parents can provide during our most arduous moments.

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This week on "Off The Cuff," Melanie is joined by Karen to catch listeners up on identity verification news, FAFSA beta updates, and a roadmap to the upcoming Negotiated Rulemaking (NegReg) sessions. The team kicks things off with a discussion on the Department of Education's (ED) new initiative concerning identity verification, and highlights some transition issues raised by NASFAA communities. Melanie and Karen then catch listeners up on the beta testing period for the 2026-27 FAFSA and discuss where things stand ahead of the now certified October 1 launch date of the form. The team then wraps things up with a discussion on the upcoming NegReg committees as well as the department's unified agenda.

S5:E23 College financial planning meets entrepreneurial reality. Brad Baldridge, host of Taming the High Cost of College, breaks down complex rules into simple moves any small business owner can use to lower net price and avoid bad loans. He sat down with Dr. LL to share some INCREDIBLE cost-savings tips that you, as a small business owner, can do if you have a child in college. KEY TAKEAWAYS [06:04] FAFSA rule change for businesses.Small businesses under 100 employees now must be reported as assets. Brad explains what has value (e.g., real estate) vs. low-value consultancies—and why outdated blog posts still say otherwise. Takeaway: get current, not cached, guidance. [08:01] Put your kids on payroll (the right way). Paying teens legitimately can lower parent income without hurting aid (up to ~$11k earned income). Takeaway: move from “cash for shifts” to payroll to help taxes + aid eligibility. [08:50] Create a tuition reimbursement plan. Even small firms can mirror big-company education benefits (with rules—talk to your tax pro). Takeaway: convert wages into structured, policy-based education support. [11:06] How to negotiate offers. It's not lawyer-vs-lawyer; it's “can you help us?”—often led by the student. Many private schools discount; appeals are strongest with documented changes (disaster, disability, divorce, business shock). Takeaway: ask, document, and appeal respectfully. [27:11] Plan early with look-back income. Aid uses prior-prior year taxes (e.g., Class of 2025 aid uses 2023 income). MAIN Takeaway: founders who can shift income should start in 9th–10th grade to optimize the right tax years. Bonus gems throughout: model multiple income scenarios (7:20–7:44), understand “merit vs. need” by school type (18:01–19:50), and compare net prices across acceptances before falling in love with a brand name (16:15–17:12).    Brad's site & podcast: Taming the High Cost of College

On this episode of the TigerTalk Podcast, Marketing and Public Relations Specialist Liz Calvery teams up with Northeast Mississippi Community College President Dr. Ricky G. Ford to discuss how Northeast prepares its students for more than just graduation. The Booneville-based college ensures that students leave not only with a degree, but also with the real-world skills needed to thrive in the classroom, on the job, and in their personal lives. It's about more than academics—it's about shaping well-rounded individuals who are ready to succeed no matter what life throws their way. Plus, get the latest updates on athletics, academics, workforce development, and everything happening at one of the nation's premier community colleges.

S5:E23 College financial planning meets entrepreneurial reality. Brad Baldridge, host of Taming the High Cost of College, breaks down complex rules into simple moves any small business owner can use to lower net price and avoid bad loans. He sat down with Dr. LL to share some INCREDIBLE cost-savings tips that you, as a small business owner, can do if you have a child in college. KEY TAKEAWAYS [06:04] FAFSA rule change for businesses.Small businesses under 100 employees now must be reported as assets. Brad explains what has value (e.g., real estate) vs. low-value consultancies—and why outdated blog posts still say otherwise. Takeaway: get current, not cached, guidance. [08:01] Put your kids on payroll (the right way). Paying teens legitimately can lower parent income without hurting aid (up to ~$11k earned income). Takeaway: move from “cash for shifts” to payroll to help taxes + aid eligibility. [08:50] Create a tuition reimbursement plan. Even small firms can mirror big-company education benefits (with rules—talk to your tax pro). Takeaway: convert wages into structured, policy-based education support. [11:06] How to negotiate offers. It's not lawyer-vs-lawyer; it's “can you help us?”—often led by the student. Many private schools discount; appeals are strongest with documented changes (disaster, disability, divorce, business shock). Takeaway: ask, document, and appeal respectfully. [27:11] Plan early with look-back income. Aid uses prior-prior year taxes (e.g., Class of 2025 aid uses 2023 income). MAIN Takeaway: founders who can shift income should start in 9th–10th grade to optimize the right tax years. Bonus gems throughout: model multiple income scenarios (7:20–7:44), understand “merit vs. need” by school type (18:01–19:50), and compare net prices across acceptances before falling in love with a brand name (16:15–17:12).    Brad's site & podcast: Taming the High Cost of College

EAB financial aid experts, Brett Schraeder and Kathy Ruby explore what's ahead as FAFSA 2026 updates roll out alongside sweeping changes from the Big Beautiful Bill. Their conversation covers the elimination of Grad PLUS loans, new limits on Parent PLUS, the introduction of Workforce Pell Grants, and a revamped repayment plan. They also share insights on how institutions can adapt their aid strategies and strengthen communication with students and families.

In this episode of the TigerTalk Podcast, Marketing and Public Relations Specialist Liz Calvery joins Northeast Mississippi Community College President Dr. Ricky G. Ford to highlight the many ways Northeast employees ensure student success—both inside the classroom and beyond. From Career and Technical faculty who build lifelong friendships and mentor students in their chosen fields, to instructors who keep their doors open during office hours for a quick question or even just a friendly “hey,” Northeast's commitment to personal connection shines through. The conversation also explores the vital role of the Student Success Center and Counseling Center, offering guidance and resources as students navigate academics and life's major transitions. Plus, get the latest updates on athletics, academics, workforce development, and everything happening at one of the nation's premier community colleges.

As summer winds down and college preparations begin, families face important decisions about education funding, school selection, and financial aid. In this episode of Purposeful Planning, we explore strategies for making college more affordable and manageable—from the power of starting early with 529 plans to navigating the updated FAFSA process. Whether you're sending your first child to college or your last, these insights can help you make informed decisions about higher education investments. Sources: https://www.aspenwealthmgmt.com/resource-center/lifestyle/countdown-to-college/ https://www.aspenwealthmgmt.com/resource-center/estate/smart-tips-for-529-plans https://www.aspenwealthmgmt.com/resource-center/blog/fafsa-changes-2024-25/ https://www.aspenwealthmgmt.com/contact-us-fee-only-advisors-fort-worth https://www.aspenwealthmgmt.com/resource-center/financial-planning/college-funding-planning The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate and is intended merely for educational purposes, not as advice. Aspen Wealth Management is a registered investment advisor with the SEC. This recorded posting utilizes AI generated voiceovers. While the Firm strictly prohibits the use of AI for advisory activities constituting investment advice, financial plans, portfolio analysis and management, and reporting, the use of AI for other purposes, such as voiceovers, is permitted and utilized for the firm's recordings. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode you will hear:   (02:00) In the News   Vince joins Mark to discuss a NYT Article entitled, “Columbia and Brown Share Race and Admissions Data in Trump Deal”   Mark continues to share insights from an article that the Chronicle of Higher Education Ran Entitled, “The Money Problem No College Can Escape”   (38:18) Peg Keogh Interview-Missed Opportunities for the FAFSA and CSS PROFILE Part 5 of 5   §  More conversation about the CSS PROFILE     (58:26) College Spotlight Interview Part 3 of 4-Preview Dr. Ramon Blakley is the Asst Vice Provost of Enrollment at UT-Austin and Ramon and Mark have a robust discussion about Apply Texas, about whether Texas is considering Early Decision and about how Senate Bill 175 which is the bill that created UT's auto admission plan, how does it actually work, and how can out of state students stand out in a competitive applicant pool, and we talk about the type of student that excels at UT-   Recommended Resource-Guide to help first year students complete the Common Application-     Speakpipe.com/YCBK is our method if you want to ask a question and we will be prioritizing all questions sent in via Speakpipe. Unfortunately, we will NOT answer questions on the podcast anymore that are emailed in. If you want us to answer a question on the podcast, please use speakpipe.com/YCBK. We feel hearing from our listeners in their own voices adds to the community feel of our podcast.   You can also use this for many other purposes: 1) Send us constructive criticism about how we can improve our podcast 2) Share an encouraging word about something you like about an episode or the podcast in general 3) Share a topic or an article you would like us to address 4) Share a speaker you want us to interview 5) Leave positive feedback for one of our interviewees. We will send your verbal feedback directly to them and I can almost assure you, your positive feedback will make their day.   To sign up to receive Your College-Bound Kid PLUS, our new monthly admissions newsletter, delivered directly to your email once a month, just go to yourcollegeboundkid.com, and you will see the sign-up popup. We will include many of the hot topics being discussed on college campuses.   Check out our new blog. We write timely and insightful articles on college admissions:   Follow Mark Stucker on Twitter to get breaking college admission news, and updates about the podcast before they go live. You can ask questions on Twitter that he will answer on the podcast. Mark will also share additional hot topics in the news and breaking news on this Twitter feed. Twitter message is also the preferred way to ask questions for our podcast:   https://twitter.com/YCBKpodcast   1. To access our transcripts, click: https://yourcollegeboundkid.com/category/transcripts/ 2. Find the specific episode transcripts for the one you want to search and click the link 3. Find the magnifying glass icon in blue (search feature) and click it 4. Enter whatever word you want to search. I.e. Loans 5. Every word in that episode when the words loans are used, will be highlighted in yellow with a timestamps 6. Click the word highlighted in yellow and the player will play the episode from that starting point 7. You can also download the entire podcast as a transcript   We would be honored if you will pass this podcast episode on to others who you feel will benefit from the content in YCBK.   Please subscribe to our podcast. It really helps us move up in Apple's search feature so others can find our podcast.   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!   If you want to help more people find Your College-Bound Kid, please make sure you follow our podcast. You will also get instant notifications as soon as each episode goes live.   Check out the college admissions books Mark recommends:   Check out the college websites Mark recommends:   If you want to have some input about what you like and what you recommend, we change about our podcast, please complete our Podcast survey; here is the link:     If you want a college consultation with Mark or Lisa, just text Mark at 404-664-4340 or email Lisa at All we ask is that you review their services and pricing on their website before the complimentary session; here is link to their services with transparent pricing: https://schoolmatch4u.com/services/compare-packages/

Send us a textThe transition from college to adulthood has dramatically transformed over recent decades, with financial independence, full-time employment, and independent living occurring much later for today's graduates than their 1980s counterparts. Yet despite these shifting timelines, Sallie Mae's latest research reveals that higher education continues to deliver tremendous value for Gen Z.According to Annat Shrabstein, Senior Director of Consumer Insights & Brand Strategy at Sallie Mae, their "How America Succeeds After College 2025" report uncovers interesting insights about what success truly means for recent graduates. Research reveals a significant shift in how Gen Z defines post-college success, balancing financial health, mental wellbeing, and career satisfaction in a world where traditional adulthood milestones are happening later than ever. The data challenges common assumptions about higher education's value while highlighting critical opportunities to better prepare students for life after graduation.• Only 25% of 21-year-olds in 2021 were financially independent, compared to 42% in 1980• 90% of recent graduates report positive college experiences, with 70% believing education was worth the cost• 74% of grads who used student loans say they would have rather borrowed than not gone to college • Students who use career services are significantly more likely to find jobs in their field• 64% of graduates wish they had fully engaged in all their college had to offer• Having a mentor is the attribute most strongly associated with post-college success• Almost two-thirds of recent graduates are living with parents two years after collegeVisit salliemae.com to access college planning tools including Scholly Scholarship Search, Scout College Search, step-by-step FAFSA guides, and research reports. Email lisa@drlisahassler.com to share stories about what's working in your schools.

On this episode of the TigerTalk Podcast, Marketing and Public Relations Specialist Liz Calvery sits down with Northeast Mississippi Community College President Dr. Ricky G. Ford to discuss the power of recruitment events like NORTHEAST NOW and personalized campus visits. Discover how these experiences give high school students a firsthand look at college life and play a vital role in boosting enrollment—with over 88% of campus visitors ultimately choosing to become Tigers. Plus, get the latest updates on athletics, academics, workforce development, and everything happening at one of the nation's premier community colleges.

In light of the national student loan crisis, parents and students continue to struggle with college choice and financial aid to avoid an unaffordable student debt load upon graduation. I have dedicated several episodes to guests who help people with that. One balancing act parents go through is educating their children while still saving and investing for a comfortable retirement. That's why in this episode of the podcast I talk with Certified Financial Planner Paul Compeau about how to do just that. In this episode you will learn: What happens when families pick a college without a solid financial plan What financial facts should parents know before the applications start Are high school guidance counsellors or the financial aid office of their top picks enough Why you should approach college planning like a CFO Should you always fill out the FAFSA

In this episode you will hear:   (01:55) In the News   Mark continues to share insights from an article that the Chronicle of Higher Education Ran Entitled, “The Money Problem No College Can Escape”   (14:22) Question from a listener Lisa and Lynda answer a question from an applicant who wants to know what a stealth applicant is?   (22:23) Peg Keogh Interview-Missed Opportunities for the FAFSA and CSS PROFILE Part 4 of 5   §  More conversation about the CSS PROFILE   (45:34) College Spotlight Interview Dr. Ramon Blakley is the Asst Vice Provost of Enrollment at UT-Austin and he will be helping us understand UT over the next four weeks Part 2 of 4-Preview   ²  More talk about internally transferring at UT ²  UT's expanded resume ²  Why UT releases its decisions in waves   Recommended Resource-Guide to help first year students complete the Common Application-     Speakpipe.com/YCBK is our method if you want to ask a question and we will be prioritizing all questions sent in via Speakpipe. Unfortunately, we will NOT answer questions on the podcast anymore that are emailed in. If you want us to answer a question on the podcast, please use speakpipe.com/YCBK. We feel hearing from our listeners in their own voices adds to the community feel of our podcast.   You can also use this for many other purposes: 1) Send us constructive criticism about how we can improve our podcast 2) Share an encouraging word about something you like about an episode or the podcast in general 3) Share a topic or an article you would like us to address 4) Share a speaker you want us to interview 5) Leave positive feedback for one of our interviewees. We will send your verbal feedback directly to them and I can almost assure you, your positive feedback will make their day.   To sign up to receive Your College-Bound Kid PLUS, our new monthly admissions newsletter, delivered directly to your email once a month, just go to yourcollegeboundkid.com, and you will see the sign-up popup. We will include many of the hot topics being discussed on college campuses.   Check out our new blog. We write timely and insightful articles on college admissions:   Follow Mark Stucker on Twitter to get breaking college admission news, and updates about the podcast before they go live. You can ask questions on Twitter that he will answer on the podcast. Mark will also share additional hot topics in the news and breaking news on this Twitter feed. Twitter message is also the preferred way to ask questions for our podcast:   https://twitter.com/YCBKpodcast   1. To access our transcripts, click: https://yourcollegeboundkid.com/category/transcripts/ 2. Find the specific episode transcripts for the one you want to search and click the link 3. Find the magnifying glass icon in blue (search feature) and click it 4. Enter whatever word you want to search. I.e. Loans 5. Every word in that episode when the words loans are used, will be highlighted in yellow with a timestamps 6. Click the word highlighted in yellow and the player will play the episode from that starting point 7. You can also download the entire podcast as a transcript   We would be honored if you will pass this podcast episode on to others who you feel will benefit from the content in YCBK.   Please subscribe to our podcast. It really helps us move up in Apple's search feature so others can find our podcast.   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!   If you want to help more people find Your College-Bound Kid, please make sure you follow our podcast. You will also get instant notifications as soon as each episode goes live.   Check out the college admissions books Mark recommends:   Check out the college websites Mark recommends:   If you want to have some input about what you like and what you recommend, we change about our podcast, please complete our Podcast survey; here is the link:     If you want a college consultation with Mark or Lisa, just text Mark at 404-664-4340 or email Lisa at All we ask is that you review their services and pricing on their website before the complimentary session; here is link to their services with transparent pricing: https://schoolmatch4u.com/services/compare-packages/

In this episode of TigerTalk, Marketing and Public Relations Specialist Liz Calvery sits down with Northeast president Dr. Ricky G. Ford for an inside look at the decision-making process that shapes the future of the college. Dr. Ford discusses the wide range of factors that must be weighed when making key choices—from balancing the needs of students, employees, and the institution to ensuring that every decision supports both today's learners and generations to come. He also shares how he leans on a trusted support system to gather information, perspectives, and insights that guide him toward sound, lasting outcomes. Plus, get the latest updates on athletics, academics, workforce development, and everything happening at one of the nation's premier community colleges.

In this episode, Lisa and Jaime discuss:Understanding the role of impacted majors and prerequisitesThe critical importance of aligning majors with career goals earlyNavigating the complexities of college transfersFinancial planning and its impact on educational choicesKey Takeaways: Over one-third of undergraduates transfer colleges, and without early planning around majors, prerequisites, and credit alignment, they risk losing time, money, and progress.Students in impacted majors like Computer Science, Business, Nursing, and Engineering must complete strict, school-specific prerequisites, so they should map overlapping requirements across multiple target schools.While some parents fear transferring will hurt their job or graduate school prospects, employers usually see only the final degree, and graduate programs value applicants who can explain a well-reasoned shift.Before committing to a college—whether first-time or transfer—use FAFSA estimators to gauge real costs, research transfer scholarships, and compare prerequisite overlaps to avoid financial strain and lost credits.“Most employers aren't looking for whole transcripts to see your collection of credits. They're just looking for the final outcome.” – Jaime SmithAbout Jaime Smith: Jaime Smith is a Certified Educational Planner specializing in college transfer, online learning, homeschooling, and supporting neurodiverse learners. A longtime transfer student advocate, she earned a Post-Master's Certificate in Transfer Leadership and Practice from the University of North Georgia with the National Institute for the Study of Transfer Students in 2023. She holds a BA in Linguistics from UC Berkeley, an MA in TESOL, an MSEd in eLearning, and a certificate in College Counseling.Founder and CEO of Online G3—an independent online program for gifted and twice-exceptional K–12 students—Jaime continues to teach English. A California native now in Oregon, she lives with her husband and pet bunny. Her daughter, a former homeschooler turned transfer student, is now in grad school.Episode References:#140 Avoiding the Pitfalls of College Transfers with Jaime SmithThe Truth about College Admission by Brennan Barnard and Rick ClarkEnter to win a free copy of The Complete Guide to College Transfer at flourishcoachingco.com/transfer through August 31.Order The Complete Guide to College Transfer on Amazon starting August 26 to get the full roadmap for navigating college transfersExplore school-by-school data on competitive and impacted majors at flourishcoachingco.com/majors to make smarter application choices.Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corneConnect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingcoInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

In this Ask Farnoosh episode, Farnoosh kicks things off with a personal story tied to her recent TODAY Show appearance, where she talked about “finance-proofing” your relationship. Reflecting on her own early money talks with husband Tim (over margaritas at their favorite tequila bar), she lays out the keys to financial transparency in couples — from shared goals to individual autonomy.Next, Farnoosh unpacks several top money headlines:Tariff Rebate Checks? A proposed bill would send $600 checks to Americans, redistributing billions in collected tariff revenue. Supporters call it a timely relief, while critics question whether it's a sustainable solution.Housing Market Reset: As pandemic-era price surges deflate in places like Austin, buyers may finally have leverage — but high mortgage rates remain a hurdle.AI and the Return of In-Person Job Interviews: Companies like Google are bringing back face-to-face interviews to combat AI cheating in virtual screenings.The Tooth Fairy's Budget Cuts: Delta Dental reports a 14% drop in the average payout for lost teeth — a sign of tighter household budgets.In the mailbag, Farnoosh answers three timely listener questions:How to Prep for a Recession and a Weak Dollar: Farnoosh recommends beefing up emergency savings, diversifying investments, considering inflation hedges like TIPS or gold, and reducing high-interest debt. Flexibility is key.Juggling a Mortgage and Child Care Costs: She reframes child care as a career investment, suggests alternatives like nanny shares or Dependent Care FSAs, and advises delaying large home upgrades until expenses ease.Will My Teen's Job Hurt Financial Aid?: Unlikely, says Farnoosh. The FAFSA allows students to earn about $7,600 before aid is impacted. Still, she warns that assets in a teen's name can carry more weight than income.Farnoosh closes with a reminder that applications for her mentorship program close this Sunday — an opportunity for listeners looking to build a sustainable, personal brand. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode you will hear:   (04:08) In the News   Vince and Mark discuss a August 6th article that ran in the Stanford Daily, Stanford's newspaper about how Stanford will continue supporting legacy admissions, despite the California law that passed to outlaw it.   (33:00) Peg Keogh Interview-Missed Opportunities for the FAFSA and CSS PROFILE Part 3 of 5 o     Peg talks about the changes from the old FAFSA to the new FAFSA o     We transition to talk about some CSS PROFILE specific missed opportunities o     Peg talks about questions that you do not have to answer on the Profile o     Peg talks about the special circumstances' situation o     Peg shares her three commandments when filling out these forms o     I share a few stories from my life experience that relate to the point Peg is making o     Peg explains how much flexibility colleges have when interpreting and applying the data from the Profile compared to the FAFSA o     Peg talks about why there are more Pell grant recipients now o     Peg talks about some Profile specific mistakes students make; we start with a conversation on home equity o     Peg talks about not oversharing when you complete the Profile o     Peg gives an example of a question that you don't need to answer o     Peg talks about the flexibility and subjectivity colleges look at when they interpret a Profile o     Peg talks about how she advises colleges students to handle the special circumstances section o     Peg talks about the projected income question and she shares how she advises families to handle this question       (01:04:35) College Spotlight Interview Dr. Ramon Blakley is the Asst Vice Provost of Enrollment at UT-Austin and he will be helping us understand UT over the next four weeks Part 1-Preview v  In this segment we talk about which colleges UT competes with for students v  We talk about how UT admits by major v  We talk about the process of how trying to do an internal transfer from one major to another works at UT   (02:50) Recommended Resource   Guide to help first year students complete the Common Application-     Speakpipe.com/YCBK is our method if you want to ask a question and we will be prioritizing all questions sent in via Speakpipe. Unfortunately, we will NOT answer questions on the podcast anymore that are emailed in. If you want us to answer a question on the podcast, please use speakpipe.com/YCBK. We feel hearing from our listeners in their own voices adds to the community feel of our podcast.   You can also use this for many other purposes: 1) Send us constructive criticism about how we can improve our podcast 2) Share an encouraging word about something you like about an episode or the podcast in general 3) Share a topic or an article you would like us to address 4) Share a speaker you want us to interview 5) Leave positive feedback for one of our interviewees. We will send your verbal feedback directly to them and I can almost assure you, your positive feedback will make their day.   To sign up to receive Your College-Bound Kid PLUS, our new monthly admissions newsletter, delivered directly to your email once a month, just go to yourcollegeboundkid.com, and you will see the sign-up popup. We will include many of the hot topics being discussed on college campuses.   Check out our new blog. We write timely and insightful articles on college admissions:   Follow Mark Stucker on Twitter to get breaking college admission news, and updates about the podcast before they go live. You can ask questions on Twitter that he will answer on the podcast. Mark will also share additional hot topics in the news and breaking news on this Twitter feed. Twitter message is also the preferred way to ask questions for our podcast:   https://twitter.com/YCBKpodcast   1. To access our transcripts, click: https://yourcollegeboundkid.com/category/transcripts/ 2. Find the specific episode transcripts for the one you want to search and click the link 3. Find the magnifying glass icon in blue (search feature) and click it 4. Enter whatever word you want to search. I.e. Loans 5. Every word in that episode when the words loans are used, will be highlighted in yellow with a timestamps 6. Click the word highlighted in yellow and the player will play the episode from that starting point 7. You can also download the entire podcast as a transcript   We would be honored if you will pass this podcast episode on to others who you feel will benefit from the content in YCBK.   Please subscribe to our podcast. It really helps us move up in Apple's search feature so others can find our podcast.   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!   If you want to help more people find Your College-Bound Kid, please make sure you follow our podcast. You will also get instant notifications as soon as each episode goes live.   Check out the college admissions books Mark recommends:   Check out the college websites Mark recommends:   If you want to have some input about what you like and what you recommend, we change about our podcast, please complete our Podcast survey; here is the link:     If you want a college consultation with Mark or Lisa, just text Mark at 404-664-4340 or email Lisa at All we ask is that you review their services and pricing on their website before the complimentary session; here is link to their services with transparent pricing: https://schoolmatch4u.com/services/compare-packages/

On this episode of Millennial Debt Domination, Katie highlights the new landscape of college.  The world of higher education is evolving quickly, from the cost of college to what students can expect after graduation. Whether you're a prospective student or supporting one, understanding this new landscape is key to making informed and financially smart decisions. On this episode, Katie is joined by Dr. Alaina Harper. Dr. Alaina is the Executive Director at OneGoal, a powerful program that begins in high school and continues with postsecondary support through a student's first year of college. Katie and Dr. Alaina discuss the recent changes to the FAFSA, new scholarships and grant opportunities, the growing popularity of online education, and much more.  Follow Navicore on Social Media: X: @NavicorePR Instagram: @navicoresolutions Facebook: NavicoreSolutionsPR More questions for Katie? E-mail us: olm@navicoresolutions.org About Navicore Solutions: We are a national nonprofit provider of financial education and compassionate personal finance counseling. We can help you gain control of your finances. A debt-free future is possible. Learn more about us here: http://navicoresolutions.org/    https://decided.org/  

In this episode of TigerTalk, Marketing and Public Relations Specialist Liz Calvery sits down with Northeast President Dr. Ricky G. Ford to share valuable advice for students just beginning their college journey. Drawing on decades of experience as an educator and leader, Ford highlights the importance of building friendships that last a lifetime, getting involved in clubs and organizations, joining intramural activities, and making the most of resources like the Eula Dees Memorial Library. Whether it's stepping out of your comfort zone to meet new people or finding ways to fully embrace campus life, Ford encourages students to enjoy every moment of their time at Northeast. Plus, get the latest updates on athletics, academics, workforce development, and everything happening at one of the nation's premier community colleges.

Brian Skrobonja talks about the real cost of college—and why most families are dangerously unprepared. Tune in to learn how to fund your child's education without sacrificing your retirement. Expect to hear eye-opening numbers, smarter strategies than 529 plans, and a flexible approach that keeps you in control, no matter what path your child takes. Brian starts by explaining how to avoid being blindsided by college costs. Most parents assume they'll have time until the first invoice shows up. And when it does, it doesn't just hit your wallet—it hits your entire financial life. Understand why “college tuition” is just one part of the picture. The real cost includes everything else: housing, books, transit, lab fees, and incidentals. And those extras can add up to more than tuition itself. Brian explains how college costs can quietly destroy retirement plans. You want to help your child, but helping without a plan can wipe out decades of savings.  How to ensure college costs don't catch you by surprise.  Learn why a 529 plan is helpful—but also restrictive. It only works if your child follows a specific path and goes to college.  Brian describes why flexibility should be a priority when planning for college. What if your child takes a gap year? What if they don't go to college at all? You need a funding tool that moves with life—not against it. Why a 529 plan can hurt your financial aid eligibility. Every dollar in that account shows up on the FAFSA. And that could mean less aid, more loans, and more stress. How cash value life insurance creates breathing room. It doesn't show up on aid forms, and you can use the money for anything—college or not. That kind of freedom changes how you plan. Brian explains how life insurance can do what college savings accounts can't: tax-deferred growth, tax-free access, and zero usage restrictions.  Learn why not all life insurance is designed for this. Some policies are built for death benefits—not cash value. You need the right structure, the right funding, and the right guidance. How to plan for college without sabotaging your lifestyle. Tuition shouldn't mean pausing your retirement or downsizing your life. According to Brian, smart planning means both futures can coexist. Understand the real power of liquidity in college planning. For Brian, savings are great. But if they're locked up when the bills arrive, they're just numbers on paper. Brian reveals why thinking in lump sums is the wrong mindset. College is a cash flow challenge, not just a savings goal. You don't need $200K on day one—but you do need to know where every semester's payment will come from.  Brian describes what real planning actually looks like. It's not just picking an account—it's designing a strategy. One that flexes, protects, and puts you in control, no matter what life throws your way.     Mentioned in this episode: BrianSkrobonja.com SkrobonjaFinancial.com SkrobonjaWealth.com BUILDbanking.com Common Sense Financial Podcast on YouTube  Common Sense Financial Podcast on Spotify   References for this episode: https://capstonewealthpartners.com/11192015cash-flow-is-king/?utm_source=chatgpt.com https://research.collegeboard.org/media/pdf/Trends-in-College-Pricing-and-Student-Aid-2024-ADA.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com https://www.parents.com/parents-are-sacrificing-to-pay-for-college-11761247?utm_source=chatgpt.com https://moneywise.com/managing-money/debt/my-wife-and-i-are-well-off-but-we-told-our-daughter-21-we-couldnt-afford-to-pay-for-her-college-now-shes-graduated-with-90k-in-student-loans-and-a-chip-on-her-shoulder?utm_source=chatgpt.com https://www.benefitnews.com/news/citizens-parents-compromise-retirement-over-college-costs?utm_source=chatgpt.com https://crsreports.congress.gov/product/pdf/IN/IN12024     Alternative investments may be subject to less regulation than other types of pooled investment vehicles. Alternative Investments may impose significant fees, including incentive fees that are based upon a percentage of the realized and unrealized gains and an individual's net returns may differ significantly from actual returns. Such fees may offset all or a significant portion of such Alternative Investment's trading profits. Incorporating alternative investments into a portfolio presents the opportunity for significant losses including in some cases, losses which exceed the principal amount invested. Also, some alternative investments have experienced periods of extreme volatility and in general, are not suitable for all investors. Asset allocation and diversification strategies do not ensure profit or protect against loss in declining markets. ---- BUILD Banking™ is a DBA of Skrobonja Insurance Services, LLC. Benefits and guarantees are based on the claims paying ability of the insurance company. Not FDIC insured. Results may vary. Any descriptions involving life insurance policies and its use as an alternative form of financing or risk management techniques are provided for illustration purposes only, will not apply in all situations, may not be fully indicative of any present or future investments, and may be changed at the discretion of the insurance carrier, General Partner and/or Manager and are not intended to reflect guarantees on securities performance. The term BUILD Banking™, private banking alternatives or specially designed life insurance contracts (SDLIC) are not meant to insinuate that the issuer is creating a real bank for its clients or communicating that life insurance companies are the same as traditional banking institutions. This material is educational in nature and should not be deemed as a solicitation of any specific product or service. BUILD Banking™ is offered by Skrobonja Insurance Services, LLC only and is not offered by Madison Avenue Securities, LLC. nor Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC. ---- This content is intended for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be used as the sole basis for financial decisions, nor should it be construed as advice designed to meet the particular needs of an individual's situation. Skrobonja Financial Group, LLC, Skrobonja Insurance Services, LLC, Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC are not permitted to offer and no statement made during this presentation shall constitute tax or legal advice. Our firms are not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Government or any governmental agency. The information and opinions contained herein provided by third parties have been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but accuracy and completeness cannot be guaranteed by Skrobonja Financial Group, LLC, Skrobonja Insurance Services, LLC, Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC.

You might already be familiar with filling out the FAFSA form, or you might only know it by reputation. That reputation is somewhere between filing your annual income taxes and running an Ironman triathalon. Revisions, technology issues and widespread confusion over the availability of the form over the past two years might make it seem even more sinister.Let's back up. What is the FAFSA? If you have a child finishing high school this school year, the FAFSA plays a big part in determining how much financial aid you could receive—including grants, loans and scholarships—to help pay for college. In Indiana, most families are now required by law to fill out the FAFSA unless they seek a waiver.   Despite recent tumult, all signs point to the FAFSA being ready to fill out this year by the traditional launch date of Oct. 1. Our guest this week is Bill Wozniak, vice president and chief marketing officer of INvestEd, a nonprofit based in Indianapolis and created by the Indiana Legislature to help families navigate the FAFSA process. He provides an overview for the uninitiated and shares some of the biggest misconceptions of FAFSA. For example, if you think you are sufficiently wealthy to put any financial assistance out of reach, you very well could be wrong. If you think you just need to get it done by the end of the year, you might want to think again. And, Wozniak says, the process isn't nearly as arduous today as its reputation might suggest.

In this episode you will hear:   (01:47) In the News  Hillary and Mark discuss how being likeable impacts whether a student is admitted or not when their admission file is read  Link to the YCBK listener survey:   (16:17) Peg Keogh Interview-Missed Opportunities for the FAFSA and CSS PROFILE Part 2 of 5 o     Mark and Peg continue to discuss about six more missed opportunities that are common on both FAFSA and the PROFILE, missing out here can cost you thousands or even tens of thousands a year o     Peg lets us know how common it is for the family to erroneously list a grandparent on the Profile or FAFSA o     Peg explains the difference between FAFSA and the PROFILE o     Peg discusses properly representing your secondary properties o     Peg discusses representing the value of your business o     Peg gives her advice about when to submit these forms o     Peg discusses what she means by “a first come first come school” o     Peg discusses the confusion over school year o     Peg discusses the confusion over the student and the parent in terms of whose FAFSA or Profile is it o     Peg discusses demographic details o     Peg discusses FAFSA-specific missed opportunities, including some new ones now that the FAFSA has been revamped o     Peg discussed the confusion over primary home equity o     Peg discussed divorced, separated and never marrieds and how the FAFSA policy has changed with the New FAFSA o     I share a very real scenario I encountered last year to show just how complicated things can get with divorced, separated and never married families     (39:26) College Spotlight Interview Greg Zaiser-VP of Enrollment at Elon University-Understanding Elon University 2 of 2 Part 2-Preview v  Greg talks about the Elon endowment v  Greg talks about the performing arts program at Elon v  Great talks about some exceptional Elon programs that fly under the radar, but the faculty and the results are outstanding for these majors v  Greg talks about the 3 programs that Elon is best known nationally for v  Greg talks about how all of Elon's programs are open to all students v  Greg talks about the accelerated pathways programs Elon offers and he talks about how they are growing at Elon v  Greg shares what Elon needs to work on being an even better school v  Greg talks about Elon's low tuition, low tuition discount model v  Greg talks about Elon's strategic plan v  Greg talks about the five areas in the country where Elon has a regional staff member v  Greg goes on the hotseat in the lightning round v  Greg shares what he learned from visiting colleges with his two sons v  Greg shares a hilarious story about his son Luke    (26:54) Recommended Resource-College UnMazed, is offering free 90-day digital access to their entire bookshelf to institutions. and CBO's, to get your free access, contact Dr. Amanda Sterk at info@collegeunmazed.com     Guide to help first year students complete the Common Application-     Speakpipe.com/YCBK is our method if you want to ask a question and we will be prioritizing all questions sent in via Speakpipe. Unfortunately, we will NOT answer questions on the podcast anymore that are emailed in. If you want us to answer a question on the podcast, please use speakpipe.com/YCBK. We feel hearing from our listeners in their own voices adds to the community feel of our podcast.   You can also use this for many other purposes: 1) Send us constructive criticism about how we can improve our podcast 2) Share an encouraging word about something you like about an episode or the podcast in general 3) Share a topic or an article you would like us to address 4) Share a speaker you want us to interview 5) Leave positive feedback for one of our interviewees. We will send your verbal feedback directly to them and I can almost assure you, your positive feedback will make their day.   To sign up to receive Your College-Bound Kid PLUS, our new monthly admissions newsletter, delivered directly to your email once a month, just go to yourcollegeboundkid.com, and you will see the sign-up popup. We will include many of the hot topics being discussed on college campuses.   Check out our new blog. We write timely and insightful articles on college admissions:   Follow Mark Stucker on Twitter to get breaking college admission news, and updates about the podcast before they go live. You can ask questions on Twitter that he will answer on the podcast. Mark will also share additional hot topics in the news and breaking news on this Twitter feed. Twitter message is also the preferred way to ask questions for our podcast:   https://twitter.com/YCBKpodcast   1. To access our transcripts, click: https://yourcollegeboundkid.com/category/transcripts/ 2. Find the specific episode transcripts for the one you want to search and click the link 3. Find the magnifying glass icon in blue (search feature) and click it 4. Enter whatever word you want to search. I.e. Loans 5. Every word in that episode when the words loans are used, will be highlighted in yellow with a timestamps 6. Click the word highlighted in yellow and the player will play the episode from that starting point 7. You can also download the entire podcast as a transcript   We would be honored if you will pass this podcast episode on to others who you feel will benefit from the content in YCBK.   Please subscribe to our podcast. It really helps us move up in Apple's search feature so others can find our podcast.   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!   If you want to help more people find Your College-Bound Kid, please make sure you follow our podcast. You will also get instant notifications as soon as each episode goes live.   Check out the college admissions books Mark recommends:   Check out the college websites Mark recommends:   If you want to have some input about what you like and what you recommend, we change about our podcast, please complete our Podcast survey; here is the link:     If you want a college consultation with Mark or Lisa or Lynda, just text Mark at 404-664-4340 or email Lisa at or Lynda at Lynda@schoolmatch4u.com. All we ask is that you review their services and pricing on their website before the complimentary session; here is link to their services with transparent pricing: https://schoolmatch4u.com/services/compare-packages/

In this episode of TigerTalk, Northeast Mississippi Community College President Dr. Ricky G. Ford joins Marketing and Public Relations Specialist Liz Calvery to kick off the 77th academic season, starting August 13. Dr. Ford shares what he's most excited about as a new wave of students arrives on campus, highlights the variety of programs Northeast offers, and discusses the latest campus improvements — including major renovations at Wood Hall and ongoing drainage projects. Plus, get the latest updates on athletics, academics, workforce development, and everything happening at one of the nation's premier community colleges. 

Featuring Kyle Banks from PKS Investment Advisors, this episode discusses how Delaware grandparents can strategically save for their grandchildren's education. Key highlights include recent changes to FAFSA rules, strategic use of the five-year election, opportunities to roll unused savings to Roth IRAs, and consideration of other strategies like directly paying tuition bills. Thanks to Kyle for some great tips for grandparents - your generosity needs strategy!

Is your grocery bill beefier than your sandwich? This week, Joe Saul-Sehy, OG, and Neighbor Doug unpack inflation in a way that only we can—by biting into Len Penzo's Annual Sandwich Survey. Yes, prices are up, and yes, you can still eat well without triggering a credit card crisis. But it's not just meat and mustard on today's menu. We're also serving a fresh look at 401(k) “leakage”—that drip-drip-drip of hardship withdrawals that's turning your retirement plan into a leaky faucet. You'll get pro-level insight on how to patch those holes before your future income soaks the floor. And if you're paying for (or dreading paying for) college, Christine from the Stacker community, who works in higher ed, joins to offer sharp and timely advice on keeping costs in check—from completing the FAFSA to finding overlooked aid. Len Penzo's Sandwich Index Which sandwiches give you the most delicious bang for your inflation-adjusted buck? (Spoiler: bologna stages a quiet comeback.) 401(k) Trouble Brewing Hardship withdrawals are on the rise. Why it matters, how to avoid them, and what better options exist when life throws you a cash crisis. Tracking Expenses Like a Pro Joe, OG, and Doug explore the subtle ways inflation seeps into your budget—and how paying attention to where your money leaks gives you power back. Higher Ed, Lower Bills Stacker Christine breaks down must-know tips on navigating skyrocketing tuition, including a FAFSA pep talk that could save you thousands. Tuna vs. Roast Beef: The Sandwich Showdown Plus: Is the BLT still king? Can the humble tuna salad hold its ground against the mighty Big Mac? And where does salami fit into the sandwich power rankings? Trivia, Movie Talk, and Park City Tales No Stacking Benjamins episode is complete without a detour or three—from Doug's trivia trap to stories from the road and screen. Takeaway for Stackers: In high-cost times, it's the small wins—like swapping in store brands, packing a lunch, or tracking that budget leak—that give you the edge. And while it's tempting to ignore those tiny cracks in your retirement plan or daily spending, you're much better off fixing them before the flood. Want to brag about your favorite money-saving sandwich? Drop into the Basement Facebook group and share it—bonus points if it doesn't involve bologna. FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/len-penzo-2025-annual-sandwich-survey-1717 Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/201 Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FAFSA for high-income families, CSS Profile pros and cons, and financial aid tips for families who think they make too much to qualify. Here's what you need to know.In this episode of College Coffee Talk, Andy and Pearl Lockwood discuss whether families who don't qualify for need-based financial aid should still file the FAFSA or CSS Profile—and why skipping it could cost you in other ways. Topics include: ✔ Why some merit aid requires FAFSA or CSS Profile submission ✔ How the FAFSA protects you in financial aid negotiations ✔ Why colleges might assume you can pay full price if you don't file ✔ The private school trap for high-income earners ✔ Real examples from Lockwood College Prep clients

In this episode you will hear:   (02:29) In the News  Hillary and Mark give some tips to help students with the writing in their applications-Part 2 of 3   (18:40) Peg Keogh Interview-Missed Opportunities for the FAFSA and CSS PROFILE Part 1 of 5 o     Peg gives her backstory o     Peg answers the question, should you fill out the financial aid forms if you are confident that you will not qualify for need-based aid o     Mark introduces the topic, o     Peg and Mark have a robust discussion of, what does it mean to be “need-blind” o     Peg explains the difference between FAFSA and the PROFILE o     Peg and Mark begin the discussion, What are some missed opportunities that are common on both to FAFSA and the CSS Profile     (53:05) College Spotlight Interview Greg Zaiser-VP of Enrollment at Elon University-Understanding Elon University 1 of 2 Part 1-Preview v  Greg talks about what makes Elon distinctively special v  Greg talks about how Elon almost pioneered engaged learning v  Greg talks about the 5 Elon experiences v  Greg talks about the small class sizes v  Greg talks about the awards Elon Faculty have received v  Greg talks about the engineering and nursing programs v  Greg talks about athletics at Elon v  Greg talks about Elon's campus v  Greg talks about an exciting new major that Elon has in the School of Communications v  Greg talks about some exciting changes Elon is making to their physician assistant program v  Greg talks about Elon in NY, Elon in DC, Elon in Charlotte and Elon in Charlotte v  Greg talks about whether the word on the street, that Elon wants you to let them know if you are in their top three is accurate or not v  Mark asks Greg if Elon is a school that is great for a family that can pay at least $40,000-the mid-60's but not a financial match for a family that can't pay 40K v  Mark asks Greg about two reasons he hears students do not select Elon and Greg gives honest answers to Mark's questions       Speakpipe.com/YCBK is our method if you want to ask a question and we will be prioritizing all questions sent in via Speakpipe. Unfortunately, we will NOT answer questions on the podcast anymore that are emailed in. If you want us to answer a question on the podcast, please use speakpipe.com/YCBK. We feel hearing from our listeners in their own voices adds to the community feel of our podcast.   You can also use this for many other purposes: 1) Send us constructive criticism about how we can improve our podcast 2) Share an encouraging word about something you like about an episode or the podcast in general 3) Share a topic or an article you would like us to address 4) Share a speaker you want us to interview 5) Leave positive feedback for one of our interviewees. We will send your verbal feedback directly to them and I can almost assure you, your positive feedback will make their day.   To sign up to receive Your College-Bound Kid PLUS, our new monthly admissions newsletter, delivered directly to your email once a month, just go to yourcollegeboundkid.com, and you will see the sign-up popup. We will include many of the hot topics being discussed on college campuses.   Check out our new blog. We write timely and insightful articles on college admissions:   Follow Mark Stucker on Twitter to get breaking college admission news, and updates about the podcast before they go live. You can ask questions on Twitter that he will answer on the podcast. Mark will also share additional hot topics in the news and breaking news on this Twitter feed. Twitter message is also the preferred way to ask questions for our podcast:   https://twitter.com/YCBKpodcast   1. To access our transcripts, click: https://yourcollegeboundkid.com/category/transcripts/ 2. Find the specific episode transcripts for the one you want to search and click the link 3. Find the magnifying glass icon in blue (search feature) and click it 4. Enter whatever word you want to search. I.e. Loans 5. Every word in that episode when the words loans are used, will be highlighted in yellow with a timestamps 6. Click the word highlighted in yellow and the player will play the episode from that starting point 7. You can also download the entire podcast as a transcript   We would be honored if you will pass this podcast episode on to others who you feel will benefit from the content in YCBK.   Please subscribe to our podcast. It really helps us move up in Apple's search feature so others can find our podcast.   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!   If you want to help more people find Your College-Bound Kid, please make sure you follow our podcast. You will also get instant notifications as soon as each episode goes live.   Check out the college admissions books Mark recommends:   Check out the college websites Mark recommends:   If you want to have some input about what you like and what you recommend, we change about our podcast, please complete our Podcast survey; here is the link:     If you want a college consultation with Mark or Lisa or Lynda, just text Mark at 404-664-4340 or email Lisa at or Lynda at Lynda@schoolmatch4u.com. All we ask is that you review their services and pricing on their website before the complimentary session; here is link to their services with transparent pricing: https://schoolmatch4u.com/services/compare-packages/

Episode Sponsor CTC Math – The no-prep, self-paced homeschool math curriculum that takes the pressure off parents and actually makes sense to kids. Try it free at ctcmath.com. Episode Snapshot College costs are soaring, ideological climates are shifting, and more students than ever are graduating late—or not at all—with mountains of debt. In this candid info-session, Lisa Nehring (director of True North Academy) unpacks the “college dilemma” and lays out two practical alternatives: Dual Degree High School – earn an accredited bachelor's while you finish high school. Tech & Trades Diploma – a two-year fast-track that marries solid academics with apprenticeship-ready skills. Along the way she tackles FAFSA headaches, the national trades shortage, protecting your teen's faith on campus, and how True North's advising team walks families through every step. Key Takeaways Sticker Shock: College tuition up 20 % in 10 years; textbooks up 400 %. Average in-state cost now ~$28K/yr; many privates top $65K. Debt Trap: U.S. student-loan debt = $1.1 trillion; deregulated lenders can capitalize unpaid interest during forbearance, ballooning balances. Completion Crisis: Average time to a bachelor's is 6 years; >50 % of freshmen never finish. Ideological Pressure: 70 % of incoming evangelical students renounce faith by Thanksgiving of freshman year; many never return. Trades Opportunity: 7 million skilled-trade openings now; projected shortfall of 2 million more by 2030. Starting wages often $18–$30/hr with zero college debt. True North Solutions: Dual Degree: 120 credits + high-school diploma, fully Cognia-accredited, ESA/and may be 529-eligible, no debt. Tech & Trades: 22 HS credits in two years, core academics + life & soft-skills, direct links to vetted apprenticeships (HVAC, electrical, auto, welding & more). Mix-and-Match: Students can start with trades and layer on the dual degree—or vice versa—based on goals. Support Built In: Dedicated advisors, robust LMS “virtual campus,” study-guide-plus-exam model (re-takeable), and a Christ-centered worldview throughout. Timestamp Guide Time Segment 00:00 Sponsor message – CTC Math 01:05 Lisa's intro & credentials (5 graduate degrees + 30 yrs homeschooling) 05:20 What's changed since 2020: rising costs & ideological shift 10:40 The true price tag: tuition, textbooks, student-loan traps 17:15 Why so many students need remediation & still drop out 22:50 Faith on campus: statistics that should sober parents 27:30 Trades shortage by the numbers – and why it matters 31:45 Dual Degree vs. Dual Credit: critical differences 36:10 Inside True North's Dual Degree structure (10 classes/yr) 42:05 Tech & Trades Diploma overview & first-year core 46:30 Q&A: transferring credits, finding apprenticeships, combining paths 53:10 Next steps & free advising call   (Times are approximate – use your podcast player's chapter markers.) Memorable Quote “Why pay for extra years of school when your teen can graduate with no debt, real-world skills, and a degree in hand before their peers even move into the dorms?” Resources & Links True North Academy Dual Degree Program – Details, sample course map, FAQs Tech & Trades Diploma – Curriculum snapshot & tuition info Free PDF: College Dilemma Checklist (QR code shared during the info meeting) Schedule a 15-minute advising call (no cost) Book recommendation: The Defining Decade by Dr. Meg Jay Dave Ramsey video on student-loan forbearance pitfalls (All links available in the episode description.) Ready to explore a dual-degree or trades track for your teen? Book a free advising session with True North Academy today and discover a path that fits your family's budget, timeline, and values.

In this week's episode of TigerTalk, the award-winning podcast from Northeast Mississippi Community College, President Dr. Ricky G. Ford sits down with Marketing and Public Relations Specialist Liz Calvery to discuss major campus upgrades and construction projects designed to enhance the student experience. Ford shares updates on the transformation of Wood Hall, improvements to Tiger Stadium -- including a new playing surface and video boards -- and renovations at Bonner Arnold Coliseum. The Northeast president also highlights critical drainage projects aimed at improving campus infrastructure. In addition, Ford extends his appreciation to elected officials for helping secure federal funding for Northeast's Adult Education Program. He proudly announces that 302 individuals earned their HiSET diploma during the 2024-2025 program year, with over 30 of them now continuing their education as Northeast students. Plus, get the latest updates on athletics, academics, workforce development, and everything happening at one of the nation's premier community colleges.

How do you know if you can afford a certain school? What will 4 years of undergrad actually cost you? Need advice on how the Net Price Calculator works? Is the Net Price Calculator and MyinTuition different than FAFSA? (Hint: yes it is!) Details are inside today's interview with College Admissions Counselor Mark Stucker! Check out part 1 of this interview about his formula for matching students to colleges in 5 key areas – academic match, social match, emotional match, career match, and financial match. Then in part 2, he dishes on 5 admission tips to make your college search, applications, and acceptances easier. He goes into even more detail on his own podcast Your College Bound Kid. Also, let me find some scholarships for you! Schedule a FREE Scholarship Strategy Session with me to discuss how I can find you between $10,000-30,000 in scholarship opportunities! Plan a time on my calendar here –> https://calendly.com/moneyandmentalpeace     Can't wait to dive in, LET'S GO!!!!! Mark's Podcast: Your College Bound Kid | Admission Tips, Admission Trends & Admission Interviews Net Price Calculator: https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/pay-for-college/get-started  MyinTuition: https://myintuition.org/    Related Episodes: 322 - How to Reduce the Cost of Tuition for Your Daughter by 50% - 3 Steps to Get Started... 320 - How to Find Scholarships for Students with ADHD, Learning Disabilities, ADD, & Mental Health Conditions 282 - Find $10,000 in Scholarships in Under An Hour!   Come join our Facebook Group for more discussions, advice, and memes ☺️ Christian College Girl Community → tinyurl.com/karacommunity  Instagram → @moneyandmentalpeace Email → info@moneyandmentalpeace.com   **Get scholarships and pay for college without student loans!** Are you worried about how to pay for college? Stressed because it's so expensive? Are you having trouble finding scholarships, or all you find don't apply to you? Overwhelmed with all things school and money? Welcome fam! This podcast will help you find and get scholarships, avoid student loans and maybe even graduate college debt-free! Hey! I'm Kara, a Christian entrepreneur, amateur snowboarder, and scholarship BEAST! I figured out how to not only finish college debt-free, but I even had $10k left over in the bank after graduation. (& btw, my parents weren't able to help me financially either!) During school, I was worried about paying for next semester. I couldn't find scholarships that worked specifically for me, and didn't know how to get started while juggling homework and keeping up with ALL.THE.THINGS. But dude, I learned there was a better way! With God's direction, I tested out of classes, and found the perfect scholarships, grants, internships, and weird budget hacks that helped me go from overwhelmed to debt-free with $10k in the bank–all with God on my side. ... and I'm here to walk you through this, too. If you are ready to find scholarships specific to you, learn to manage your money well, and have enough money to kill it at college, this pod is for you! So grab your cold brew and TI-89, and listen in on the most stress-free and debt-free class you've ever attended: this is Money and Mental Peace.   Topics related to this episode: 529, 529 plan, section 529 plan, 529 account, 529 plan accounts, 529 calculator, 529 tax benefits, 529 college fund, 529 qualified expenses, parent plus loan, cosign student loans, parent plus loan interest rate, parent plus loan federal, parent plus loan payments, college fit, college match, your college bound kid, mark stucker, admissions, admissions office, college admissions, college ranking, admissions visitor center, admissions essay format, universities ranking global, admissions testing, admissions welcome center, college decisions, college decision, pay for college, send your kid to college, college admissions counselor, net price calculator, College Board net price calculator, myintuition, my intuition, net price calculator university of michigan