Podcasts about FAFSA

Northeast Mississippi Community College President Dr. Ricky G. Ford and Marketing and Public Relations Specialist Liz Calvery look at some of the big projects that the college has going on on the Booneville campus. Ford highlights the ongoing renovations to the men's residence hall -- White Hall - and the significant improvements taking place to enhance student living spaces. He also discusses the Career Technical Education (CTE) build-out at the former Corinthian building on MS-4, noting the multi-phase approach with the first stage set to begin in late summer or early fall of 2026 to develop new classroom spaces. By relocating a majority of the college's CTE programs to the new facility, additional space will become available on the Booneville campus to expand healthcare programs and increase the number of graduates in high-demand medical fields. Ford also provides an update on the Seth Pounds Auditorium renovation, sharing that contractors are on schedule -- and in some cases ahead -- with completion now anticipated in spring 2027. Ford also discusses the Public Safety Training Center that will make Northeast one of the premier locations for training of public safety officials in the state. In addition, Ford touches on several other campus improvement projects, emphasizing that each carries its own timeline but will ultimately enhance the overall student experience in meaningful ways. Plus, get the latest updates on athletics, academics, workforce development, and all the incredible things happening at one of the nation's premier community colleges.

SpaceX raised $75 billion in the largest IPO in history -- more than all 71 other IPOs combined so far this year. Shares jumped nearly 20% on day one. Elon Musk became the world's first trillionaire. And if you're a regular investor asking whether you missed out, Joe and OG have a very specific answer: the life-changing money was already gone before the ticker symbol appeared. Here's how IPOs actually work, who really wins, and why your index fund is probably going to own SpaceX anyway.What You'll Walk Away WithWhy the 20% first-day pop was largely an illusion for retail investors -- and what actually happened to the price between $135 and the moment you could buy itThe auction mechanics behind IPO pricing: why institutional investors with early access capture most of the return before the stock hits public marketsWhy OG argues that even putting a million dollars into SpaceX at the IPO price and making 20% isn't life-changing -- and why that math actually makes the risk harder to justify, not easierThe sobering stat: 71 other IPOs happened this year before SpaceX, raising a combined $36 billion between themHow SpaceX could still end up in your portfolio without you doing anything -- and which indexes will add it faster than others under new fast-entry provisionsWhy S&P 500 investors will have to wait: the three criteria any company must meet before joining, and why SpaceX's profitability timeline makes one of them complicatedThe six new space-themed ETFs Wall Street created in the past three months -- and what that pattern always signalsOG on why the person who got rich on SpaceX put money in before you knew it existed, and why you wouldn't have done it eitherWhy being wrong on a small speculative position might be the most valuable financial education available -- and OG's Thanksgiving pan storyOG and Anna on college planning: how to calculate your actual funding gap, why FAFSA still matters even if you won't qualify for need-based aid, and the high school glide path that protects your savings from market timing risk in the final four yearsWhy This Matters NowEvery few years a story like SpaceX comes along and makes every investor feel like they missed the trade of a lifetime. The real question isn't whether you missed SpaceX -- it's whether you have a plan that captures the next one automatically, without you having to call your shot.From the BasementJoe and OG dig into the SpaceX IPO mechanics, the FOMO math, and why index fund investors may own it soon anyway without lifting a finger. OG and Anna deliver the penultimate episode of their financial basics series with a full college planning walkthrough including the gap calculator, FAFSA, and the glide path strategy for the four years before tuition is due. Doug arrives with Meryl Streep trivia. The show introduces Scout, a new AI assistant built specifically for the Stacking Benjamins guides that only answers from the guides themselves -- and tells you when it doesn't know. Congratulations go out to Stacker Melissa, who finished her last day of work.Resources MentionedStacking Benjamins Guides -- college planning, tax, and workplace benefits guides with new Scout AI assistant; stackingbenjamins.com/guidesStacking Benjamins Basics Guide -- stackingbenjamins.com/basicsguideStacking Benjamins Scorecard -- stackingbenjamins.com/scorecardStacking Benjamins Newsletter (The 201) -- stackingbenjamins.com/201The College Investor -- Robert Farrington; collaborator on the college planning guide; thecollegeinvestor.comGranola AI -- meeting notes tool; granola.ai/sbStacking Benjamins Community -- stackingbenjamins.com/basementSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Northeast Mississippi Community College President Dr. Ricky G. Ford and Marketing and Community Relations Specialist Liz Calvery talk about the impact Northeast has on students.  Ford reflects on the lasting impact of the college experience and what truly matters when students look back on their time at Northeast. Beyond assignments, exams, and late nights of studying, he emphasizes the personal growth that defines a student's journey—finding their voice, building confidence, and discovering strengths they may not have known they possessed. Ford shares how meaningful moments both inside and outside the classroom—from speaking up for the first time to forming friendships and connecting with faculty—shape not only academic success but personal development. He underscores that college is not just about earning a degree, but about learning how to think, adapt, persevere, and grow through challenges, even when that growth is uncomfortable. At its core, Ford explains, the value of a Northeast education lies in preparing students not just for a career, but for life—equipping them with resilience, curiosity, and the ability to keep moving forward when faced with adversity. It is about what students carry with them long after they leave campus: not only knowledge, but character. Plus, get the latest updates on athletics, academics, workforce development, and all the incredible things happening at one of the nation's premier community colleges.

He got into TWO Ivy League schools — and qualified for $0 financial aid. Then his income dropped from $290K to $75K. Here's how the appeal really works. Andy and Pearl Lockwood break down a real financial aid appeal happening right now: a self-employed dad whose 2024 tax return said "too rich for aid," whose actual income collapsed to $75K — and why both Ivy League financial aid offices refused to budge until they saw proof. If you're self-employed and assume you'll never qualify for college financial aid, this episode is for you. Plus: the college essay topic 1 in 5 students picks (and why you should rethink it), and the Federal Reserve study claiming remote work — not AI — is what's hurting new college grads. ⏱ CHAPTERS0:00 – Why we care about the 40 years AFTER college, not just the 42:12 – How to write a winning essay (even if your biggest hardship was slow Wi-Fi in the Hamptons)3:54 – The essay topic 18.7% of students pick — and why to rethink it5:22 – What an admissions officer reading 2,500 applications actually wants7:21 – The self-employed dad who "made too much" for financial aid9:28 – Why colleges judge your aid on a 2-year-old tax return12:52 – $290K → $75K: the income drop two Ivies wouldn't believe — until we proved it15:10 – Send your appeal to the RIGHT person (most families pick the wrong office)16:43 – Every school must hear your appeal — the rule most parents don't know17:37 – Fed study: remote work, not AI, is hurting new college grads20:35 – AI majors: 5 colleges in 2001 → 74 today — what to check first22:22 – Why one tech company is hiring MORE people because of AI26:09 – Wrap-up + how to never miss a webinar For more information visit: LockwoodCollegePrep.com #FinancialAid #CollegeFinancialAid #CollegePlanning #FAFSA #CollegeAdmissions

Resources and Next Steps: ✅ Take The Great Wealth Assessment! →https://linktr.ee/kingdomroi

You don't need Johns Hopkins to become a nurse. You don't even need four years. On this Laurel Ridge Community College edition of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael is back on the Zooms with Director of Marketing Guy Curtis, joined by Dr. Scott Vanderkooi, Dean of Health Professions, and Dr. Amanda Hodges, Interim Director of Nursing — to talk about how someone in this region can become a working RN in two years, often for far less money than they assume, and with a 100% job placement rate to show for it. The bigger news in this conversation is the launch of a brand-new weekend-and-online cohort starting in spring 2027, designed specifically for people who can't quit their jobs to go back to school. Online lectures, weekend labs, weekend clinicals — built around the reality that most adult learners are already working. Amanda walks through what the program looks like, who it's right for, and how CNAs, LPNs, EMTs, paramedics, and even total beginners can step in. Plus: how G3 state funding can cover the last dollar of tuition for eligible Virginia residents, and the upcoming online information sessions where you can learn more. ABOUT THE NEW WEEKEND RN COHORT Launching spring 2027, Laurel Ridge's new RN nursing cohort is built for adult learners who can't step away from full-time work. Lectures and coursework are delivered online. Labs, simulations, and clinical hours run on weekends. The program leads to an RN license — the same credential as the traditional weekday program — and qualifies for G3 last-dollar tuition funding for eligible Virginia residents. WHO IT'S FOR • Adults currently working who want to change careers • CNAs, LPNs, EMTs, paramedics, and surgical techs looking to advance to RN • People with no prior healthcare experience who want to enter the field • Anyone who needs to keep their current job while going to nursing school INFORMATION SESSIONS • First session: Monday, June 23, 2026 — online • Additional sessions throughout July (dates listed at laurelridge.edu/nursing) • Sessions cover the new weekend cohort, the traditional RN program, the CNA program, and the Practical Nursing program — plus admission requirements, the entrance exam, and how to prepare. Parents of high school students considering nursing careers are welcome to attend. ABOUT G3 FUNDING G3 (Get Skilled, Get a Job, Give Back) is a Virginia state program that covers the "last dollar" of tuition costs for high-demand career programs at Virginia community colleges. Eligibility is based on household income — roughly $100,000 to $128,000 depending on household size — and Virginia residency. G3 stacks on top of any federal financial aid (like FAFSA) so it covers what other aid doesn't. LINKS & RESOURCES • Laurel Ridge Nursing — program info, info session registration, application: laurelridge.edu/nursing • Schedule a campus visit: laurelridge.edu/visit • G3 funding eligibility and details: laurelridge.edu/G3  THE VALLEY TODAY with Janet Michael — A decade of conversations. New podcast episodes drop weekdays at 11 AM. Catch the show on The River 95.3 and Fox Sports 1450 AM weekdays just after noon. Subscribe and listen at thevalleytodaypodcast.com — available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please take a moment to leave a rating or review — it helps more listeners find us. Connect with us: Facebook — facebook.com/ValleyTodayFanPage Instagram — instagram.com/thevalleytoday

Northeast Mississippi Community College President Dr. Ricky G. Ford and Marketing and Public Relations Specialist Liz Calvery look at common misconceptions surrounding community colleges and set the record straight on what today's two-year institutions truly offer. Ford addresses the long-standing myth that community colleges are a “second option” for students who cannot attend a four-year university, emphasizing instead the intentional choice many students make for affordability, accessibility, and quality. He also challenges the perception that community college faculty are less qualified, noting that many instructors hold advanced degrees and bring extensive real-world and academic experience -- often comparable to, or exceeding, their counterparts at four-year institutions. The conversation highlights how Northeast delivers the same foundational courses found at universities at a fraction of the cost, without sacrificing academic rigor. Ford explains that while community colleges are often associated with career and technical education, they also play a critical role in preparing students for seamless transfer to four-year institutions, all while helping students enter the workforce with significantly less debt. Student life is another area where misconceptions persist. Ford discusses the wide array of opportunities available at Northeast, from campus events and intramural sports to clubs and student organizations -- sometimes rivaling or even surpassing offerings at larger schools. He also underscores one of the biggest advantages of the community college experience: smaller class sizes and a more personalized learning environment, which continue to attract students seeking stronger faculty engagement and support. Plus, get the latest updates on athletics, academics, workforce development, and all the incredible things happening at one of the nation's premier community colleges.

Is college really worth $520,000? In this episode of the Success Formula Podcast, host Shawn Lynch sits down with Hannah Maruyama, co-founder of Degree Free, to expose the uncomfortable truth behind America's $848 billion higher education industry and show every parent exactly what to do instead.Hannah breaks down why only 22% of college graduates ever work in their field of study, why the true average cost of a bachelor's degree, including lost wages and interest, now sits at $520,000, and why sending your 18-year-old to college with no clear goal is one of the most financially devastating decisions a family can make. She unpacks the little-known history of the Higher Education Act of 1965, how bankruptcy-exempt student loans were designed to trap young people in a system that profits from their uncertainty, and why 62% of high school seniors are walking into a debt crisis that will prevent them from buying homes, starting families, and building real wealth.In this episode you will learn why most jobs in America do not legally require a college degree, how Hannah's Launch Program has placed teenagers and young adults into thriving careers in weeks rather than years, why AI literacy and the ability to communicate clearly are now the two most valuable skills a young adult can have, how the apprenticeship model is making a powerful comeback across industries from construction to software development, and what the four-question framework is that every parent should work through with their child before ever filling out a FAFSA form. Whether your child is 13 or 21, this conversation will completely change the way you think about education, career, and what it actually takes to build a successful life in the age of AI. Subscribe to the Success Formula Podcast and visit degreefree.com to start building a smarter path forward today.Website- https://degreefree.com/launchInstagram- https://www.instagram.com/degreefree/Tune in every Tuesday at 10 AM for another inspiring success story, along with the proven formula to help you achieve your own goals. Don't miss out on the insights that could change your life!Buzzsprout- https://successformulapodcast.buzzsprout.com/Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/7aRe06pXIq6yq8GQf62NBMAmazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/1393b77c-626a-4a53-bdd5-43ce3b1aa15b/success-formula-podcastApple Podcast- https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/success-formula-podcast/id1748704615Our Social Media:Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@OfficialSuccessFormulaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialsuccessformula/Twitter: https://x.com/_SuccessFormula/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@officialsuccessformula

On this episode of Your Financial Choices, Laurie Siebert continues giving suggestions for addressing student costs through tools like the FAFSA.

Northeast Mississippi Community College President Dr. Ricky G. Ford and Marketing and Public Relations Specialist Liz Calvery look at how the challenges facing today's students have evolved dramatically over the past 40 years. With decades of experience in education, Ford reflects on how institutions like Northeast must now prepare students for a world that is constantly changing -- one that looks far different from the stable, predictable career paths of the past. From navigating rapid technological advancement to addressing digital misinformation and emerging social and ethical issues, today's educational landscape requires a broader, more adaptive approach. Ford also highlights the growing importance of teaching students how to live independently and responsibly in a fast-paced, digital-first society -- something that simply was not part of the conversation decades ago. Plus, get the latest updates on athletics, academics, workforce development, and all the incredible things happening at one of the nation's premier community colleges.

Together, Shellee and Terry discuss: Why college planning should be approached strategically, not emotionally The connection between retirement planning and college affordability How tax strategies can create additional cash flow for tuition FAFSA misconceptions: families often misunderstand Why scholarships and tax planning should work together Tax-saving opportunities for business owners and entrepreneurs The Augusta Rule and short-term rental strategies How families can start planning even if their student is already in high school

In this special episode, Jonathan Teixeira joins John Morales on Relevant Radio's Morning Air to discuss how Catholic families can prepare for college costs without going broke.Jonathan breaks down the real cost of college beyond tuition, including room and board, books, travel, and hidden expenses. He also shares practical ways families can lower costs, including community college, in-state schools, trade programs, FAFSA, scholarships, and honest conversations about what parents can truly afford.Jonathan reminds parents that supporting their children does not always mean paying for everything. Sometimes the greatest help parents can offer is wisdom, guidance, and prudent decision-making rooted in faith. For more help bringing peace and clarity to your family's finances, check out The Catholic Money Academy at walletwin.com/academy.

Northeast Mississippi Community College President Dr. Ricky G. Ford and Marketing and Public Relations Specialist Liz Calvery look at how Northeast continues to maintain its close-knit, personal feel as higher education evolves. Ford discusses how students at Northeast are more than just a number, highlighting the importance of faculty who know their students by name, advisors who take a vested interest in individual success, and a Student Success Center that supports students through challenges. He explains how the college actively listens to the needs of the community and the workforce, adapting programs and training to meet those demands while still preserving a personalized student experience. The conversation also explores how Northeast tailors workforce training for both new and established employees, ensuring alignment with industry expectations. Inside the classroom, Ford emphasizes the value of traditional instruction, where faculty-led lectures and meaningful engagement help students fully understand their field of study -- so much so that they can confidently explain it to others. Balancing innovation and tradition remains a key focus, as Northeast works to meet workforce needs while maintaining small class sizes, accessible faculty, and a vibrant campus life. Ford underscores that the Northeast experience is built on personal connections -- not a one-size-fits-all approach, but one rooted in individual attention and community. Plus, get the latest updates on athletics, academics, workforce development, and all the incredible things happening at one of the nation's premier community colleges.

CannCon and Ghost open Tuesday with Ghost fresh off a Caribbean wedding where he discovered Epstein Island is visible from a crowded ferry. DOJ announces the plea deal of Brenda Lee Brown Armstrong, a 20-year veteran of registering homeless people on Skid Row with cigarettes and cash, exposed by James O'Keefe. CannCon connects her voter roll padding directly to Maryland's mail-in ballot crisis, where Trump posts that 500,000 illegal ballots were sent out and demands a DOJ investigation of Governor Wes Moore. Stacey Abrams confirms what CannCon said three weeks ago: the Louisiana v. Calais redistricting decision threatens not just congressional seats but up to 191 state legislative districts, and with them every city council, county commission, and school board in the South. Ghost previews the Western Kentucky AIPAC versus Massey primary as a guaranteed lose-lose for the establishment GOP: either outcome blows up the coalition. Linda McMahon reveals the FAFSA fraud crackdown is stopping ghost students, bots, and dead people from collecting federal loans. The San Diego Islamic Center shooting unfolds with fog of war caution. And a Minnesota ICE officer is charged in a shooting CannCon says deserves a trial regardless of politics.

Northeast Mississippi Community College President Dr. Ricky G. Ford and Marketing and Public Relations Specialist Liz Calvery look at how Northeast continues to create a lasting ripple effect by transforming lives and strengthening entire communities. Ford highlights the college's mission of blending tradition with innovation, emphasizing how Northeast moves the needle not only for students, but also for employees and the communities it serves. The conversation explores the college's commitment to excellence, creativity and forward-thinking initiatives, including its embrace of technology in the classroom and recognition as an Apple Distinguished institution. Listeners will also hear how strong instruction prepares students for success in today's active digital world, along with Northeast's leadership in workforce training and economic development through continued investment in the Workforce and Impact Center. Additional updates include enhancements like the Seth Pounds Auditorium and ongoing efforts centered on student success, employee success and high-quality instruction. Plus, get the latest updates on athletics, academics, workforce development, and all the incredible things happening at one of the nation's premier community colleges.

Did Donald Trump just make the biggest political gaffe of his career?This week on Political Rehab, Matt Robison and Matt Wylie break down Trump's stunning “NOT EVEN A LITTLE” comment about Americans' financial struggles — and why it may become the defining ad clip of the 2026 midterms. Plus: a five-alarm economy, Trump's late-night meltdown spiral, the dangerous China summit, growing momentum for Ukraine, and what's REALLY happening beneath the surface in the battle for Congress.

In the private sector, product teams pick their customers, generate demand, and ship into something close to a green field. In the public sector, none of that holds. Ayushi Roy — Chief Program Officer at New America's New Practice Lab and a lecturer at the Harvard Kennedy School — joins Randy to unpack what changes when your user base is already sitting in front of you, your scrutiny is congressional, and the right answer is sometimes to delete ten systems rather than build an eleventh.Drawing on her work on IRS Direct File, the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), the Illinois childcare voucher system, and a text-based 911 alternative that rolled out to 800,000 students across 13 universities, Ayushi makes the case for a distinct public-sector product playbook: thin-slicing for safe failure, designing for the lowest digital denominator, separating design problems from engineering problems, and treating unbuilding as a first-class option.Chapter markers01:48 — From aid monitoring in Jordan to digital delivery03:37 — Why she built a text-based alternative to 91106:33 — From a rollout to 800,000 students to Oakland City Hall08:58 — What the New Practice Lab does, and what a CPO does inside a think tank11:06 — Why private-sector product playbooks don't transliterate14:03 — No marketing, no early adopters: latent demand and the curb cut effect14:40 — Oakland's eviction tool, MacBooks, and the lowest digital denominator17:30 — Thin-slicing IRS Direct File without losing Congress22:36 — Building executive sponsorship that allows safe failure23:41 — Product vs service: the rest of the job that isn't writing code26:09 — Illinois childcare vouchers: when modernising the form makes things worse29:22 — Design problems, engineering problems, and the laptop-hinge analogy33:18 — Can AI prototyping close the policy–implementation gap?35:40 — The FAFSA simplification crisis and the case for bilingual builders37:31 — Unbuilding: how a request for a 15th CHIP system became one to remove ten41:18 — What keeps her goingOur HostsLily Smith enjoys working as a consultant product manager with early-stage and growing startups and as a mentor to other product managers. She's currently Chief Product Officer at BBC Maestro, and has spent 13 years in the tech industry working with startups in the SaaS and mobile space. She's worked on a diverse range of products – leading the product teams through discovery, prototyping, testing and delivery. Lily also founded ProductTank Bristol and runs ProductCamp in Bristol and Bath.Randy Silver is a Leadership & Product Coach and Consultant. He gets teams unstuck, helping you to supercharge your results. Randy's held interim CPO and Leadership roles at scale-ups and SMEs, advised start-ups, and been Head of Product at HSBC and Sainsbury's. He participated in Silicon Valley Product Group's Coaching the Coaches forum, and speaks frequently at conferences and events. You can join one of communities he runs for CPOs (CPO Circles), Product Managers (Product In the {A}ether) and Product Coaches. He's the author of What Do We Do Now? A Product Manager's Guide to Strategy in the Time of COVID-19. A recovering music journalist and editor, Randy also launched Amazon's music stores in the US & UK.

Northeast Mississippi Community College President Dr. Ricky G. Ford and Marketing and Public Relations Specialist Liz Calvery look at the future of Northeast Mississippi Community College and what excites the veteran educator most about where the college is headed. As Ford reflects on a decade of leadership, he highlights how Northeast has moved the needle in key areas while building a culture rooted in purpose, innovation, and a deep commitment to students and the communities it serves. From being named an Apple Distinguished School twice to thoughtfully integrating technology into the classroom, Northeast continues to evolve while maintaining the essential role of faculty-led instruction in an increasingly digital world. Ford also discusses the college's strong emphasis on workforce training and career and technical education, ensuring students are equipped with the skills needed for meaningful employment in today's economy. He underscores the critical importance of programs like Associate Degree Nursing and Practical Nursing in supporting regional healthcare needs, while also sharing plans for enhancing fine arts through the renovation of the Seth Pounds Auditorium. With developments like the CTE Workforce Innovation Center in Corinth, Northeast is honoring its tradition while embracing innovation -- creating new opportunities for students and strengthening the future of the region. Plus, get the latest updates on athletics, academics, workforce development, and all the incredible things happening at one of the nation's premier community colleges.

AI college essay detection is broken — and it's threatening students' college admissions futures in 2026. If your high school junior or senior is writing a college application essay right now, this episode of LCP Coffee Talk is the most important thing you'll watch this year. Andy Lockwood and Pearl Lockwood of Lockwood College Prep break down what's actually happening inside admissions offices — and what it means for your kid's college essay, Common App submission, and financial aid strategy. A Bible verse scored 93% AI-generated by an AI detector. A student's personal college essay — written by hand, in their own voice — flagged as ChatGPT. This is not a hypothetical. This is the current reality of AI detection software like Turnitin and GPTZero, and it is actively threatening real students in the college admissions process right now. The question isn't whether colleges are using AI detectors. They are. The question is whether those AI detector tools are accurate — and the answer, backed by evidence, is no. Yet the consequences for a false positive on a college essay can range from a failed grade to an expulsion hearing. Andy and Pearl cut through the noise and give Class of 2027 families a clear-eyed look at what AI in college admissions actually means for your student's application. IN THIS EPISODE ────────────────────────── • Why AI detector software — including Turnitin and GPTZero — cannot reliably distinguish between human and AI writing, and why false positive AI detection on college essays is a growing crisis for high school students • The "Bible verse test": how a passage of ancient scripture scored 93% AI-generated, exposing the fundamental unreliability of AI detection software used in college admissions • How to use ChatGPT on a college application essay the right way — as a thinking partner and editor, not a ghostwriter — without triggering false AI accusations or compromising your Common App essay • "Robots grading robots": professors using AI to grade essays, and what that feedback loop signals for the Class of 2026 and Class of 2027 • Why computer science went from one of the hottest college majors to one of the most saturated — and how AI is reshaping career planning for students choosing their college major in 2026 • Pearl's "where's the beef" case study: the financial aid mistake families make 8 months too late — and how merit scholarship negotiation still works if you know the FAFSA filing window and your leverage points • Real Class of 2026 college admissions wrap-up: waitlists, May 1 college deadline decisions, and scholarship negotiations still in play for families right now ABOUT LOCKWOOD COLLEGE PREP ────────────────────────── Andy Lockwood and Pearl Lockwood are the founders of Lockwood College Prep, a private college admissions consulting firm based in Glen Head, Long Island. Through their proprietary P4 system — Plan, Path, Position, Pay — Andy and Pearl have helped hundreds of families navigate the college admissions process, maximize financial aid, and secure merit scholarships at schools their students love. LCP Coffee Talk is their weekly show covering real college admissions strategy for parents of high school students. Learn more lockwoodcollegeprep.com.

In today's edition of The Update Journal… a simple trip to the bathroom turned into a full existential crisis after Sunset Citrus Margarita soap from Bath & Body Works smelled so much like an actual drink that I briefly questioned whether I should pour it over ice and serve it with tortilla chips. At what point did soap stop smelling “clean” and start smelling like the appetizer menu at a rooftop restaurant in Queens?Meanwhile, we say goodbye to Spirit Airlines — the airline that charged you extra for blinking too hard, but somehow managed to fly for years with zero fatalities. Sure, your knees were in your chest, your carry-on bag needed financing, and the boarding process felt like supermarket sweepstakes… but they got people where they needed to go. Eventually. Usually. And honestly, there's something beautiful about surviving a Spirit flight and immediately texting your family, “Landed safely. Never again.”And in Brandon's Take: Decision Day arrives for high school seniors — the magical 24-hour period where teenagers make the most expensive button click of their lives while pretending they totally understand student loans. Nothing says “adulthood” like committing to four years of stress and debt while your family asks, “So… are you excited?” through tears and FAFSA paperwork.It's soap that smells edible, airlines that somehow became lovable on the way out, and the annual tradition of emotionally purchasing your future — because anything can happen in New York.In the headlines on #TheUpdate this Wednesday, A 39-year-old man was stabbed to death in an attack near the heart of Times Square, cops said. An airliner approaching John F. Kennedy Airport and a small propeller plane came within 500 feet of each other— at least the second close call near the Queens travel hub in two weeks.And in Washington, President Trump revived the Presidential Physical Fitness Award as part of his push to return an annual physical fitness test to America's schools.

Northeast Mississippi Community College President Dr. Ricky G. Ford and Marketing and Public Relations Specialist Liz Calvery look at what piece of advice that President Ford would give to a student graduating from Northeast. Ford not only shares one piece of advice, but offers multiple insights to help graduates transition into the workforce or continue their education at a four-year college or university. He emphasizes that graduation is not the end of learning, but only the beginning, reminding students that growth continues every single day. Ford encourages graduates to keep showing up, noting that effort is never wasted — even when no one is watching. He highlights the importance of character and integrity as some of the most valuable assets a person can possess, while also stressing the need to remain humble and never forget those who helped along the way. Above all, Ford reminds students that they carry with them their experiences, resilience, and a powerful personal story that declares, “I made it. I am worthy of who I am and where I'm going.” Plus, get the latest updates on athletics, academics, workforce development, and all the incredible things happening at one of the nation's premier community colleges.

Multiple surveys indicate that people with student loan debt regret taking out the loans. A 2026 ScholarshipOwl survey of over 12,000 students found that 71% of those who already hold debt regret the decision, with concerns centered on unaffordable monthly payments and economic uncertainty. A 2022 Givling survey reported that 63% of borrowers regret taking out student loans. A 2024 Ramsey Solutions study found that 53% of student loan borrowers regret going into debt. Other polls show varying levels of regret, with NerdWallet (2024) reporting that 36% regret the amount borrowed, and WalletHub noting that 61% of college students regret how much they borrowed. If you are reading this, then I likely don't need to convince you that avoiding student loans is preferable. But there is another regret that many families tell me they have, even families who have avoided crippling levels of student loan debt: They wish they had started the scholarship process earlier. Next week, I'm sharing an interview with a mom and student who earned a full-tuition scholarship. Despite such success with scholarships, they even said that they wish they had started the scholarship process sooner. Likewise, Victoria and her mom told me the same thing in an interview last year, even though she earned a full-tuition scholarship, as well as enough in outside scholarships to cover room and board. I, too, feel the same way, even though my son earned 23 outside scholarships, and we paid only $1500 for his college degree, tuition, room, board, books, and fees included. I wish he had started applying for scholarships before his junior year of high school, as I am convinced he would have won even more scholarships. Unfortunately, learning how to have success with scholarships tends to get put on the back burner, especially during the school year. And I get it. Students are busy. That is why summer offers one of the greatest opportunities to kick-start your student's scholarship journey, and why I'm so excited to offer the Scholarship Summer Camp again this year! The Scholarship Summer Camp is for high school students in the Classes of 2027, 2028, 2029, and 2030. Your student will learn the skills required for scholarship success by applying for real scholarships, including a $35,000 scholarship capstone project! But the Scholarship Summer Camp is designed in a way so that your student doesn't have to give up their summer. Lessons and brief, yet impactful and actionable. Every Monday through Thursday, a new, pre-recorded lesson will be released. On Thursday evenings, we will be live (but recorded for future viewing), discussing the week's lessons and taking Q&A. Here's the agenda: Week 1: The Tools For Scholarship Success Week 2: Your Personal Narrative Week 3: Finding The Right Scholarships For You Week 4: Why Do You Deserve To Win This Scholarship? (Apply for a Real Scholarship This Week!) Week 5: Topical Scholarships (Apply for Another Real Scholarship This Week!) Week 6: $35,000 Capstone Scholarship Project! This year, I'm offering two different start dates for the Scholarship Summer Camp. Our first session begins on June 1st, and the second session begins on July 27th. So, when school starts again in the fall, how do you want to look back on this summer? As a time of regret, wishing your student had learned the scholarship process, or as a time when their successful scholarship journey began? To jumpstart your student's scholarship journey, click here to learn more and register for the Scholarship Summer Camp today. ---------- Of course, the goal is to graduate from college with zero student debt. So, before taking any student loans, make sure your student is applying for every scholarship for which they are eligible. Remember, students can apply for scholarships throughout their time in college. This free guide on earning scholarships while in college explains where to find scholarships, has best practices for applications, and more. Beyond applying for as many scholarships as possible, complete the FAFSA each year. This may open grant and work-study options, as well as federal student loans. The federal student loans that the FAFSA opens for students usually have the best interest rates and terms, and do not need a cosigner. However, for the vast majority of students, the lifetime limit they can borrow is $31,000 ($5500 for year 1, $6500 for year 2, $7500 for years 3 and 4). If more funds are needed, the private student loan market is one option for funding the student's remaining balance. In most cases, parents/guardians will have to co-sign for these loans. There are several private student loan companies out there. My favorite, however, is Juno. Juno is a group of more than 200,000 students and parents who work together to make lenders reduce the cost of student loans. You can join for free to access their deals and prepare for future payments. It takes less than a minute to join, and there is no fee or obligation. To recap: Step 1: Ensure your student is applying to as many scholarships as possible to reduce the cost of college. Step 2: Complete the FAFSA to get access to federal student loans, as well as grants and work-study, if eligible. Step 3: Compare the best rates and terms for additional student loans from various providers, including Juno. ---------- Featured Scholarships: Kramer Law $1000 Safety First Scholarship $500 Odenza Vacations College Scholarship $10,000 American Lawyers Alliance Scholarship $1000 Altruism + Good Deeds Scholarship $5000 Christian College Scholarship $2,000 Protestant Faith-Based College Scholarship $2,000 Catholic College Scholarship $50,000 ScholarshipOwl No-Essay Scholarship

Northeast Mississippi Community College President Dr. Ricky G. Ford and Marketing and Public Relations Specialist Liz Calvery look at what President Ford sees—and what employees and students experience every day—that often goes unnoticed by those outside the college community. From the moment a student enrolls, Ford highlights the countless behind-the-scenes efforts dedicated to guiding them toward success, whether that path leads to a four-year university or directly into the workforce. Ford shares how Northeast takes a personal stake in every student, providing support at every step of the journey. He emphasizes the college's commitment to excellence through instruction by some of the nation's top educators and hands-on preparation led by industry professionals. Beyond the classroom, Ford also sheds light on the daily operations, services, and unseen work that collectively make Northeast one of the top community colleges in the nation. Plus, get the latest updates on athletics, academics, workforce development, and all the incredible things happening at one of the nation's premier community colleges.

This week’s On the Record covers how Donald Trump is killing our collective brain cells. We’re giving flowers to Brittany Page of the Page Perspective, talking about an aspect of the looming private credit crisis that financial pundits aren’t talking about, Kash Patel, Lori Chavez-DeRemer, Super Troopers 3, headlines from The American Prospect, The Lever and Current Affairs. Who’s excited? Chapters Intro: 00:00:00 Quick Hits: 00:00:34 Max Notes: 00:03:00 Killer Left Take of the Week: 00:11:09 Chart of the Week: 00:13:00 Headlines: 00:16:55 Pod Love + Book Love: 00:18:25 Outro: 00:19:18 Resources New York Times: What Trump Is Doing to the English Language Bolch Judicial Institute: The U.S. Presidency: Looking Forward NPR: Education Secretary Miguel Cardona reflects on FAFSA rollout, debt forgiveness USA Today: Education Secretary Linda McMahon confuses AI with A1, sauce brand capitalizes on blunder New York Times: Maduro Is Gone, and the Purge Has Begun KFF: Deaths and Health Care Issues in ICE Detention Centers Under the Second Trump Administration The Ink: After Epsteingate, the ball is in our court KFF: Key Facts about the Uninsured Population Obama Archive: Let’s Move USA Today: Kid Rock drinks milk in a hot tub with RFK Jr. in wild workout video Brittany Page: Jeff & Lauren Bezos Make ‘Gratitude Lists’ as AMAZON WORKERS DIE AT WORK Bloomberg: Direct Lending Fundraising Hits Three-Year Low in First Quarter American Prospect: The Deal That Could Destroy Hollywood The Lever: The Helium Crisis That Won’t Go Away Current Affairs: Steven Pinker Doesn’t Know Anything About Marxism Book Love Nancy MacLean: Democracy in Chains: The Deep History of the Radical Right’s Stealth Plan for America Anderson M Bean: Venezuela in Crisis: Socialist Perspectives Pod Love Outrage + Optimism: It’s In Our Blood: Communities vs Forever Chemicals UNFTR Resources Video: Trump Is Rotting Our Brains and Nobody’s Talking About the Real Credit Crisis Essay: How Trump Is Making Us Dumber. -- If you like #UNFTR, please leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify: unftr.com/rate and follow us on Facebook, Bluesky, and Instagram at @UNFTRpod. Visit us online at unftr.com. Become a member at unftr.com/memberships. Buy yourself some Unf*cking Coffee at shop.unftr.com. Visit our bookshop.org page at bookshop.org/shop/UNFTRpod to find the full UNFTR book list, and find book recommendations from our Unf*ckers at bookshop.org/lists/unf-cker-book-recommendations. Access the UNFTR Musicless feed by following the instructions at unftr.com/accessibility.Support the show: https://www.unftr.com/membershipsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode we chat with Sharleigh Thomson, Education Funding Specialist at Granite Edvance about non-loan financial aid options like scholarships, grants, and work-study opportunities. Links: Access free resources, book one-on-one appointments, and find links to helpful tools and guides: https://graniteedvance.org/plan-your-journey/get-our-help/ Get in touch with Granite Edvance: https://graniteedvance.org/about-us/contact-us/ Book appointment: https://calendly.com/graniteedvance Explore various financial aid resources: https://graniteedvance.org/find-your-direction/resource-library/ Check out Granite Edvance's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@GraniteEdvance Get official FAFSA forms and helpful wizards to determine dependency status and required contributors: https://studentaid.gov/ Check out TCU University for financial education tips and resources: https://triangleuniversity.org/ Learn more about Triangle Credit Union: https://www.trianglecu.org/ View episode transcript. *This transcript was generated using AI and may contain errors or inaccuracies.  

In this week's edition of The Marne Report, Angela Rickett, Fort Stewart-Hunter Army Airfield school liaison officer, shares important information about an upcoming college bound fair! The fair covers grants and scholarships, FAFSA, and G.I. Bill transfers. Take a listen now by searching for 'The Marne Report' wherever you get your podcasts.

Northeast Mississippi Community College President Dr. Ricky G. Ford and Marketing and Public Relations Specialist Liz Calvery look at how President Ford approaches moments when decisions need to be reconsidered or reversed. Ford shares how new evidence and data play a critical role in shaping his leadership, emphasizing the importance of staying open-minded and responsive. He discusses the value of clear communication when changes occur and highlights how students help inform his perspective on policies, trends, and the evolving needs of today's learners. Ford also reflects on the human side of leadership, noting how prolonged decisions can impact employee morale and why the feelings and concerns of faculty and staff must be considered. He underscores that changing course is not a weakness, but a strength—especially when it leads to better outcomes. By encouraging thoughtful reflection and a willingness to listen, Ford explains why leaders should avoid stubbornness and remain committed to doing what is right, even if it means revisiting past decisions. Plus, get the latest updates on athletics, academics, workforce development, and all the incredible things happening at one of the nation's premier community colleges.

A wide-ranging Q&A episode tackles the real-world tradeoffs investors actually face: whether Paul Merriman's aggressive small/value “ultimate” portfolio is worth the complexity and risk, how much stock to put in scary online bank reviews versus FDIC reality, and how to find advice when you don't want someone managing your money. Don also explains why FAFSA tricks with traditional IRA contributions don't work, how to control capital gains taxes using specific share identification, and—somehow—confirms he was the voice behind a powerful Auschwitz exhibit. Practical, skeptical, and very Don.0:05 Friday Q&A intro and how to submit questions1:49 Merriman 10-fund portfolio vs “owning the market”5:21 Don confirms Auschwitz exhibit voiceover work6:54 Bread Savings reviews, withdrawal limits, and FDIC reality9:38 Finding tax-only retirement advice (CPA vs hourly planner vs EA)12:05 FAFSA myth: traditional IRA won't lower aid eligibility13:55 Selling ETFs: minimizing taxes with specific lot selection17:01 Podcast hosting quirks and MP3 download workaroundQuestions? Comments? Click!

Paying for college is one of the most stressful financial decisions a family will ever face — and most families are navigating it completely blind. This week on the Extreme Personal Finance Show, Chris sits down with Jack Wang, wealth advisor and host of the Smart College Buyer podcast, to pull back the curtain on how the college financial aid system actually works, and how families can stop leaving money on the table.Jack brings a refreshing and honest take right out of the gate, college is still worth it, but not just for the ROI reasons most people debate. The personal development, the friendships, the experience of figuring out who you are — those matter too. And yes, the numbers still have to make sense. Jack breaks down exactly how to make them work.In this episode you'll learn:Why "I make too much money to qualify for aid" is almost always wrong — and what high-income families are missingHow the FAFSA actually calculates your Student Aid Index and what that number really means for your familyThe NFL Draft analogy that perfectly explains how colleges decide who gets the big aid packagesWhy your kid's gender, major, and even home state can dramatically affect how much aid a school offersHow divorce changes the FAFSA equation — including the major rule change that tripped up a lot of familiesThe right way for grandparents to help pay for college without accidentally tanking financial aid eligibilityWhy Jack prefers financial flexibility over locking money into a 529 — and what accounts he recommends insteadThe one conversation most married couples haven't had about college that can derail the whole planJack also shares his two top strategies for families just getting started, explains why filling out the FAFSA matters even for high earners, and digs into how schools in different states treat out-of-state students very differently when it comes to aid.Whether your kid is a freshman in high school or heading into senior year, this episode will change the way you think about paying for college.Contact Chris:https://heavymetal.moneyhttps://www.facebook.com/MoneyHeavyMetalhttps://x.com/MoneyHeavyMetalhttps://www.instagram.com/chrislugerhttps://www.tiktok.com/@heavymetalmoneyemail: chris at heavymetal.moneyConnect with Jack WangSmart College Buyer on YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGvxjS_uLUIPnHKelqSLaHgJack Wang on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fafsafred/Jack Wang on LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/thejackwang/Resources and Links:Free Tuition in Minnesota: Unveiling the North Star Promisehttps://heavymetal.money/northstarpromise/Pay Less For Two-Year Degrees That Can Make You Bankhttps://heavymetal.money/twoyeardegree/High-Paying Trade Jobs and Careers That Don't Require a College Degreehttps://heavymetal.money/tradejobs/Die With Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life―A Revolutionary Approach to Maximizing Life Experiences Over Accumulating Wealth by Bill Perkinshttps://a.co/d/09JgROQc

  This week on "Off The Cuff," Melanie and Karen are joined by Aaron Lemon-Strauss, the Department of Education's (ED) FAFSA program executive director, to discuss new FAFSA fraud prevention measures announced by the department this week. Aaron kicks off the discussion by explaining the technical details of how these new fraud prevention measures will work in the online FAFSA workflow. He further explains how, starting April 26, ED will screen and assess each FAFSA for fraud risk before it is submitted, along with a one-time screen of previously submitted 2026-27 FAFSAs. Throughout the discussion, Melanie and Karen ask Aaron questions that financial aid offices may have, and relay possible concerns about administrative burden, impact on legitimate students, and more.

Higher ed finance expert, Mark Salisbury, pulls back the curtain on how the financial aid system really works and why it looks nothing like what most families expect. From the FAFSA to the CSS Profile, he explains how colleges use the data families voluntarily provide not to help them afford school, but to calculate the minimum discount needed to get them to enroll. He breaks down how institutional aid is front-loaded to attract freshmen while costs quietly balloon in later years, how the private scholarship industry profits off parental anxiety, and how misleading award letters use "magic math" and jargon to obscure the true price of attendance. Using real examples from schools like Howard University, DePaul, and Loyola Chicago, he shows exactly how these tactics play out in practice. The conversation also covers practical strategies families can use to fight back, including the importance of early planning, understanding who should and shouldn't rush to file the FAFSA, and why appealing your financial aid offer is one of the most powerful and underused tools available to consumers. Whether you're a parent, student, or school counselor, this episode is an essential primer on navigating one of the most lopsided marketplaces in America.

You'd never hand over six figures on an investment without doing your homework, right? That's exactly what most families do with college. Hans Hanson is a national college advisor who's worked with 1,000 families, and almost none of them were asking the right questions before they started. In this episode, you'll learn what most families don't understand about the business of college, how to give your child the best chance for acceptance and scholarships, and the question that will help them find the right college fit. Topics discussed: Introduction (00:00) How he went from CPA to college advisor (01:52) CollegeLogic's process to empower students and support families (06:17) What college "fit" actually means and why it matters more than rankings (09:18) The ROI of college: where families go wrong (11:35) The college lie about job placement (14:51) The policies designed to keep students enrolled longer (17:43) Tips for writing a great college essay (23:23) Why everyone should submit the FAFSA and apply early (27:55) Why "test optional" isn't really optional (30:51) What brought you JOY today? (32:46) If you're a writer who wants to take control of your finances, read Mitlin Financial's  Write Your Financial Future: A Financial Guide for Authors: https://www.mitlinfinancial.com/insights/blog/write-your-financial-future-a-financial-guide-for-authors/ Resources: Sending your child to college will always be emotional but are you financially ready? Take the College Readiness Quiz for Parents: https://www.mitlinfinancial.com/college-readiness-quiz/ Doing your taxes might not be enJOYable but being more organized can make the process less painful. Get Your Gathering Your Tax Documents Checklist: https://www.mitlinfinancial.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Mitlin_ChecklistForGatheringYourTaxDocuments_Form_062424_v2.pdf Will you be able to enJOY the Retirement you envision? Take the Retirement Ready Quiz: https://www.mitlinfinancial.com/retirement-planning-quiz/ Connect with Larry Sprung: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawrencesprung/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/larry_sprung/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LawrenceDSprung/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/Lawrence_Sprung About Our Guest: I am a national college advisor helping families from around the country and the world navigate the complicated college process. From identifying an initial list of colleges to planning college visits, writing essays, submitting applications, and deciding on the right major, at the right college, and at the right price, I help student-families get college right. My daily motivation is to help students live the life they want for themselves, which may differ from the life their parents want for them. To achieve it all, I help students own their outcomes and their expectations. Their job is to make college worth it for themselves and their parents. I raise their awareness of this. A favorite client-father once said to me,"I expect to see a return on my investment." I help parents to know better what they are about to buy — College. Connect with Hans Hanson: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hanshanson  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1017071385112403  YouTube: info@growwellthy.com Website: https://mycollegelogic.com/ Disclosure: Guests on the Mitlin Money Mindset are not affiliated with CWM, LLC, and opinions expressed herein may not be representative of CWM, LLC. CWM, LLC is not responsible for the guest's content linked on this site. This episode was produced by Podcast Boutique https://www.podcastboutique.com

Northeast Mississippi Community College President Dr. Ricky G. Ford and Marketing and Public Relations Specialist Liz Calvery look at how President Ford listens to the concerns of the students when making decisions for the campus. The veteran educator meets regularly with his student council to understand what students are wanting, needing, or worried about -- and many of those conversations have led directly to changes across campus. Ford discusses how student input has helped shape initiatives like the MakerSpace in the Eula Dees Memorial Library, the college's approach to mental health, textbook affordability, and enhanced campus safety. One major student suggestion, increased access to academic spaces, sparked the creation of a tutorial area in the Student Success Center and additional study rooms in the library. He also explains how student feedback on campus lighting contributed to new safety measures that make everyone feel more secure. Dr. Ford applauds the students for sharing their ideas and helping guide decisions that improve everyday life at Northeast. Plus, get the latest updates on athletics, academics, workforce development, and all the incredible things happening at one of the nation's premier community colleges.

Higher education researcher and founder of Tuition Fit and Pathways, Mark Salisbury, explains how college pricing actually works behind the scenes. He debunks four common myths: that all colleges are too expensive, that in-state public universities are always the cheapest option, that net price figures are entirely accurate, and that financial aid is a limited resource. He outlines how colleges set sticker prices as messaging tools, use "financial aid optimization" (algorithmic discounting designed to extract the maximum each family will pay), and engage in what he calls surveillance pricing by monitoring demonstrated interest and FAFSA data. To conclude, he offers practical advice: focus on post-graduation outcomes rather than prestige, establish a price range early, use net price calculators and tools like Tuition Fit, and remember that people succeed at every price point.

Host Jonathan Hughes answers a question from a student at Blue Hills Regional Technical High School about the FAFSA and community college.

Northeast Mississippi Community College President Dr. Ricky G. Ford and Marketing and Public Relations Specialist Liz Calvery look at some of the decisions President Ford makes that have the greatest impact on the college community -- decisions that often go unseen but shape the daily experiences of students, faculty, and staff alike. Ford reflects on pivotal moments during the COVID-19 pandemic, when real-time decisions were necessary to keep the Northeast family safe, and how those experiences continue to influence his leadership today. Ford also shares insight into the ongoing process of policy development, strategic hiring, and cultivating the right team to keep the college running smoothly. Beyond campus, Ford discusses his growing role in networking and building strong relationships with four-year institutions, local industries, and state leaders -- all with the goal of helping students and employees thrive. Through it all, Ford emphasizes transparency and inclusion, ensuring that even the unseen decisions are made with the best interests of the Northeast community at heart. Plus, get the latest updates on athletics, academics, workforce development, and all the incredible things happening at one of the nation's premier community colleges.

This week on "Off the Cuff," Hugh and Sarah highlight some updates concerning borrower defense and preview comments for the 2027-28 FAFSA. Sarah kicks things off with a background on borrower defense and a recent trend in which some schools have seen an increase in claims. Sarah then provides details on NASFAA's preview comments for the upcoming FAFSA and explains how members can use that information to inform their own comments.

Northeast Mississippi Community College President Dr. Ricky G. Ford and Marketing and Public Relations Specialist Liz Calvery look at what the veteran educator would tell a student who is on the fence about coming to Northeast or debating college in general. Ford highlights what makes Northeast special -- from academics that challenge students in the classroom to experiences that prepare them for life beyond campus. Ford discusses how the college invests not only in students' education but in their personal and professional success. This episode explores the growing impact of the Tiger Apprenticeship Program, which has already helped more than 75 students connect with local businesses and industries - empowering them to gain real-world experience and earn while they learn. Ford also outlines how the Student Success Center serves as a cornerstone for student achievement through its three pillars: academic advising, student support and success, and counseling. Each plays a critical role in guiding students toward their goals, whether that means transferring to a four-year institution, entering the workforce, or completing a specialized certificate program. For Ford, education truly is for everyone. Plus, get the latest updates on athletics, academics, workforce development, and all the incredible things happening at one of the nation's premier community colleges.

A financial aid advisor told a family to leave their weekend home off the FAFSA. That advice was a federal offense — and the family had already submitted. In this episode, Pearl and Andy share two back-to-back real cases of families who were given bad advice on their FAFSA and CSS Profile submissions: - Case 1: A family's advisor told them to omit a weekend home from both FAFSA and CSS Profile. The family is now waiting on decisions from competitive schools — with a federal violation hanging over their heads. - Case 2: A family went to Boston College to appeal their financial aid offer. BC found unreported assets, took back $13,000, and could have rescinded admission entirely. What you'll learn: - Why "it's not on your tax return" is NOT a valid reason to leave it off the FAFSA - The federal penalties for false FAFSA submission (up to $10K fine + jail time) -How to correct FAFSA and CSS Profile submissions in good faith before schools find the error - The $100K rule: how every $100,000 in non-retirement assets affects your eligibility by $5,640 - Legal strategies that reduce asset exposure vs. illegal omission The correction window is still open — but only if you find it before the school does.

Northeast Mississippi Community College President Dr. Ricky G. Ford and Marketing and Public Relations Specialist Liz Calvery look at the legislative priorities for Northeast and community colleges across the state of Mississippi. President Ford emphasizes that his top priority remains improving employee salaries, noting that faculty and staff have not seen raises in 4–5 years, even as the cost of living continues to rise each year. Ford also highlights the importance of workforce funding, explaining how fully supported workforce programs can power Mississippi's economy by preparing highly skilled workers for growing industries. Ford points to the pressing need for infrastructure improvements -- an estimated $100 million investment is required to modernize aging facilities statewide. Additionally, Ford addresses the critical demand for more healthcare professionals, sharing that with adequate funding, Mississippi's community colleges could graduate over 200 additional nurses each year. Currently, only about 60 percent of qualified applicants are accepted into nursing programs due to limited resources. If workforce initiatives were fully funded, another 1,500 skilled workers could enter Mississippi's workforce annually. Plus, get the latest updates on athletics, academics, workforce development, and all the incredible things happening at one of the nation's premier community colleges.

Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified. Today I am interviewing Delana, a school counselor and IMPACT member. I left our conversation feeling inspired and refreshed by her passion, her heart for students, and her commitment to creating a supportive and connected school climate. Delana lives with her husband Wesley and their three daughters, Salem, Caroline, and Dare, along with their two cats. She is a graduate of Calvary Christian School in King, North Carolina, where she now serves. After high school, she attended community college for two years before transferring to Lees-McRae College, where she earned her undergraduate degree in Elementary Education. She began her career teaching fourth grade in a rural public school. While teaching, she earned her master's degree in Language and Literacy from Salem College, the oldest all girls college in North Carolina. During this time, she also taught basic skills courses at a local community college in the evenings. After marrying her husband in 2008 and starting a family, she transitioned fully into the community college setting, where she worked for 15 years. One of her most meaningful roles there was in the adult high school program, where students completed online coursework to earn a high school diploma.  In 2022, she felt called to support high school students at Calvary Christian School and shared her vision with her pastor. She went on to create the Student Success program, which has continued to grow over the past four years. Her initial goal was to improve school climate, support teacher appreciation, and help students prepare for life after high school, whether through trades or college. She later became a Youth Mental Health Coach to better support the personal needs of her students. This year, she also stepped into the role of Elementary Supervisor. In addition to her professional work, she coaches middle school girls basketball, and her family stays busy supporting their daughters' involvement in volleyball, basketball, and softball. Much of their life is centered around their family and the school community they love. What do you love about school counseling? One of Delana's favorite parts of school counseling is being a trusted adult that students can connect with. She works intentionally to make her office a safe and welcoming space. She uses connection cards as a way to build relationships with students, giving them an opportunity to share both positive moments and times when they need emotional support. What does school climate mean to you? Delana shares that school climate is not just students. It includes students, faculty, and When discussing school climate, Delana emphasizes that it is not just about students. It includes students, faculty, and families. Her goal is for every student to find at least one moment in their day that brings them joy. She believes that a strong school climate begins with supporting families. When families feel supported and trust that the school has their child's best interests at heart, they are more likely to stay engaged. Similarly, when teachers feel valued and supported in their work environment, they are better able to show up for their students. Every role within the school community contributes to the overall climate. What is a day in the life for you? Delana begins her day around 7:45 in the morning with car line, which she sees as an important opportunity to connect with students right away. She then spends the first hour of her morning visiting elementary classrooms to connect with teachers and offer support, whether that means providing supplies, encouragement, or simply being present.  Throughout the day, she schedules a variety of lessons, including character education, digital citizenship for middle school students, and career exploration for eighth graders. She also teaches personal finance lessons to tenth graders and college and FAFSA preparation for eleventh and twelfth graders, helping students plan for their futures after graduation. What advice do you have for new counselors? For new counselors, Delana encourages adaptability and a willingness to keep learning, whether through reading, collaborating with others, or gaining new experiences. She emphasizes the importance of being open, transparent, and kind when communicating with parents, as honesty helps build trust.  She also recommends the book The Five Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace as a valuable resource for building positive relationships within a school community.   Resources Mentioned: Join IMPACT Book - The 5 Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace Connect with Rachel: TpT Store Blog Instagram Facebook Page Facebook Group Pinterest Youtube   More About School Counseling Simplified: School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica. You can listen to School Counseling Simplified on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more!

While the pain divorce can cause everyone involved is well known, less understood are the problems that only pop up when the FAFSA is due. Amy and Mike invited college financial prep expert Vicki Vollweiler to explain the impact of divorce on college admissions and financial aid. What are five things you will learn in this episode? Why is college planning actually more complicated after divorce? What mistakes do divorced parents make before senior year that end up costing them later? How do financial aid rules treat divorced families differently... and why is there so much confusion? What are strategies that can save families significant money? How should parents navigate co-parent communication when college planning becomes emotional or contentious? MEET OUR GUEST Vicki Vollweiler is the founder of College Financial Prep and an expert in divorce and college planning strategy. She helps parents, especially separated, divorced, and blended families, navigate financial aid, build financially smart college lists, and avoid costly mistakes. With a warm, practical approach, Vicki's mission is to reduce stress, increase clarity, and help families save as much as possible on the cost of college.  Vicki is the author of College Planning For Divorced and Widowed Parents: Reduce Stress, Save Thousands and Make Smart Decisions For Your Child's Future. Vicki can be reached at www.collegefinancialprep.com. LINKS College Planning For Divorced and Widowed Parents: Reduce Stress, Save Thousands and Make Smart Decisions For Your Child's Future RELATED EPISODES WHAT IS THE CSS PROFILE? THE BETTER FAFSA FOR NEW AND PREVIOUS FILERS WHAT DO FEDERAL POLICY CHANGES MEAN FOR FINANCIAL AID? ABOUT THIS PODCAST Tests and the Rest is THE college admissions industry podcast. Explore all of our episodes on the show page. ABOUT YOUR HOSTS Mike Bergin is the president of Chariot Learning and founder of TestBright, Roots2Words, and College Eagle. Amy Seeley is the president of Seeley Test Pros and LEAP. If you're interested in working with Mike and/or Amy for test preparation, training, or consulting, get in touch through our contact page.  

In a special Contacts Coaching podcast episode, Stevenson alumna Danielle Koval—Director of Compliance for Financial Aid and revenue sharing at the University of Oklahoma—shares her path from being a swimmer and water polo player at Stevenson to swimming at Fresno State, working in student-athlete academic services, moving to UNLV, and then joining OU after taking a financial aid role just before COVID. She compares working environments across Fresno State, UNLV, and a Power Four brand like Oklahoma, emphasizing the scale of budgets, the weight of a global brand, and the constant pace of compliance changes driven by lawsuits and reactive policy shifts. The conversation explains how college athletics finances work, why most sports operate at a loss, and how football revenue and attendance underwrite broader departmental resources. Koval details how athletic scholarships and financial aid function across headcount and equivalency sports, why FAFSA and campus/college-level scholarships matter, and how tuition waivers and programs like the Western Undergraduate Exchange reduce costs. She breaks down the shift from NCAA scholarship limits to roster caps under the new landscape, including how schools decide whether to fully fund expanded rosters and how new scholarships can count against the revenue-sharing cap. The episode also covers OU's revenue-sharing approach (six sports), Title IX defensibility pressures, preferred walk-on dynamics under roster caps, the increased role of agents in everyday issues, and how contracts are renegotiated annually amid early signing day and the transfer portal. Koval discusses the challenges of paying athletes while preparing them for life after sports, including OU's financial literacy programming, and closes with a personal reflection on changing her mindset from perfectionism to giving herself grace as circumstances shift.00:00 Welcome & Meet Danielle Koval (OU Compliance + Financial Aid/Rev Share)00:33 Danielle's Athlete-to-Administrator Journey: Fresno State → UNLV → Oklahoma05:31 Leveling Up: What Changes from Mid-Major to Power Program?08:34 The OU Brand & Culture of Excellence Across Sports11:23 Money Talks: Football Revenue, Facilities, and Funding Other Sports12:51 Is College Athletics Sustainable? NIL ‘Funny Money' to Revenue Share17:26 Scholarships 101: Headcount vs Equivalency (and Why ‘Full Ride' Is Rare)20:46 New Era: Roster Caps, Scholarship Flexibility, and the 20.5M ‘Salary Cap'24:30 Financial Aid Hacks: FAFSA, Department Scholarships, WUE, and Tuition Waivers30:10 Reallocating Aid: When Top Students ‘Free Up' Scholarships for Other Sports31:41 The Scholarship Funding Crunch: Revenue Sports vs. Everyone Else32:24 Tuition Waivers & Campus Support: How Schools Make Full Funding Work34:33 OU's Self-Sustaining Model and the ‘Front Porch' Value of Athletics36:13 Roster Caps vs. Scholarship Limits: Why Walk-Ons Are Disappearing37:53 Revenue Share at OU: The 6 Sports in the Pool (and Why Gymnastics)39:36 Preferred Walk-Ons, Practice Bodies, and Stretching the Rev-Share Dollar41:35 Inside Football Rev-Share Tiers: Contracts, Cutoffs, and Annual Renegotiations46:03 Culture & Pay Equity: Avoiding Locker-Room Blowups in the NIL Era47:43 Transfer Portal Reality Check: The Grass Isn't Greener (and Many Don't Land)48:52 Recruiting Goes Pro: Agents, Negotiations, and the New GM Job50:25 Preparing Athletes for Money & Life After Sport: Literacy, Taxes, Careers55:15 Closing Reflection: Changing Your Mind, Letting Go of Perfection

Northeast Mississippi Community College President Dr. Ricky G. Ford and Marketing and Public Relations Specialist Liz Calvery look at the latest happenings across campus and beyond in this week's episode of TigerTalk. President Ford talks about the recent changes to the requirements for receiving the Presidential Scholarship at Northeast. In previous years, an ACT score of 30 was needed to become a Presidential Scholarship recipient. Now, with the updated criteria, students with an ACT score of 28 can receive full benefits of the scholarship. Valued at nearly $20,000 for two full years at one of the nation's top community colleges, the Presidential Scholarship covers tuition, room and board, and meals during a student's two years at Northeast (excluding summers). This change is part of Northeast's ongoing mission to remove barriers to higher education and expand opportunities for incoming students. Along with the Presidential Scholarship adjustment, the Vice President's Scholarship now requires an ACT score of just 24–27 to cover full tuition — another exciting move to help more students achieve their academic goals. Plus, get the latest updates on athletics, academics, workforce development, and all the incredible things happening at one of the nation's premier community colleges.

This week on Ask Farnoosh, Farnoosh kicks things off with a behind-the-scenes look at a whirlwind week in journalism and media. She shares highlights from her recent interview with Senator Cory Booker about his bold new “Keep Your Pay Act” proposal, which would eliminate federal income tax on the first $75,000 of income, and discusses what that could mean for working Americans. She also reflects on being featured in Kiplinger's latest issue on the best financial advice experts have ever received, sharing a career lesson that shaped her own path: learning to earn money not just from what you do, but from what you know. Plus, Farnoosh announces her upcoming free webinar on March 26 about how to land a big book deal (register using the link).Then, a quick breakdown of the latest money headlines that matter for your wallet: mortgage rates climbing back above 6% and what that means for today's “frozen” housing market, the widening K-shaped economy separating households that are thriving from those struggling with rising costs, and early signs that the once-hot job market may be cooling—along with why now is a good time for a financial check-up.In the mailbag, Farnoosh tackles listener questions including: • Should high earners prioritize Roth 401(k) contributions or diversify across other retirement strategies? • What to watch out for when a financial advisor pushes variable universal life insurance instead of traditional investing. • Creative ways families are making childcare and daycare costs more manageable. • How a teenager's part-time income and assets can affect FAFSA eligibility and college financial aid. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on "Off the Cuff," Hugh, Jill, and Sarah share some takeaways from last week's Federal Student Aid (FSA) training conference, where officials from the Department of Education (ED) provided policy updates geared towards financial aid professionals. Jill provides updates on FAFSA, Pell Grant and Workforce Pell developments, the common manual for the Federal Direct Loan Program, and more. Sarah then catches listeners up on more updates regarding implementation of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), and explains a recent electronic announcement detailing upcoming changes to several FSA systems to support the expansion of Pell Grant eligibility for eligible workforce programs and revised limits on federal student loans.

Northeast Mississippi Community College President Dr. Ricky G. Ford and Marketing and Public Relations Specialist Liz Calvery look at some of the big projects that are happening around campus. Dr. Ford shares news about the long-awaited renovations to Seth Pounds Auditorium, which officially began during Spring Break as crews fenced off and marked the area for construction. One of the college's first buildings, Seth Pounds is being transformed into one of the top auditoriums in the region, with an expanded stage designed to accommodate an orchestra and will host cultural events for both the college and the community. Ford also discusses new developments at the Northeast at Corinth campus, including facility expansions that will support the Alcorn County School District with concurrent enrollment opportunities and the creation of an Aerospace Technician lab in partnership with Northrop Grumman. Additional Booneville campus improvements include updated entrance signage to better guide students and visitors while reinforcing the college's community presence. Recreational enhancements are also underway, as the college adds pickleball and volleyball lines to the tennis courts beside the Haney Union, giving students more options for on-campus activities. One of the most impactful projects, according to Ford, is the buildout of the Career Technical Building in the former Corinthian building off Highway 4 -- a development that will significantly expand health science programs, boost enrollment, and provide more space for career-technical training to help prepare local workers for tomorrow's jobs. Plus, get the latest updates on athletics, academics, workforce development, and all the incredible things happening at one of the nation's premier community colleges.

Want your kids to grow into confident money decision-makers without turning every dinner conversation into a financial lecture? In this roundtable episode, Joe sits down with Livia (“Liv”) Roder, host of the Liv Lab Podcast, Karen Holland of GiftingSense.org, and John Lanza, host of the Art of Allowance Podcast to explore what actually helps kids understand money before the stakes get big. Instead of theory, this discussion focuses on real moments when money suddenly becomes real: college price tags, house-hunting sticker shock, allowances that run out too fast, and purchases that teach better lessons than any lecture ever could. The panel shares practical ways families can build financial confidence through everyday decisions, honest conversations, and a willingness to let kids learn by doing. What the Stacking Benjamins “Confident Explorer” will gain from this episode: How to talk about money naturally so kids see it as a life skill, not a stressful taboo topic Why modeling everyday behavior matters more than formal “money talks” A simple shift from “Can I have it?” to “Is it worth it?” that builds independent thinking How small spending mistakes become powerful teaching moments when handled without shame Ways to introduce big topics like college costs gradually so kids feel informed instead of overwhelmed Real-life money lessons that sparked the conversation: Livia's moments when money suddenly felt real, from college forms to realizing savings aren't just “bank numbers” Karen Holland's memorable eighth-grade back-to-school budget experiment Early allowance experiences that helped connect choices with consequences Why kids absorb far more from overheard conversations and daily habits than parents expect Practical strategies parents can use right away: Starting with simple allowance systems or “jars” to visualize spending, saving, and giving Karen's “Does It Make Sense?” pause to slow impulsive purchases Joe's “circle back” technique, revisiting purchases later to reflect without criticism Letting kids fail safely so regret becomes learning instead of embarrassment Helping kids split costs or contribute toward purchases to create ownership Navigating tougher parenting questions: Should kids see financial stress, or should parents shield them? How to practice age-appropriate honesty without creating anxiety Why financial jargon like FAFSA or taxes can unintentionally intimidate teens Bringing kids into real financial conversations so they build confidence early Money challenges unique to today's kids: Teaching spending awareness in a tap-to-pay, frictionless world Cash vs. cards vs. apps and how each changes behavior Building a “pause habit” before spending when transactions feel invisible If you could teach just one money skill… The panel compares their top priorities: Awareness of cash flow and where money actually goes Thinking before buying instead of reacting emotionally Paying yourself first and building saving habits early Plus, a little basement fun along the way: Favorite purchases that truly felt worth it (from snowboards to board games to a Kindle) Stories that prove money lessons stick best when tied to real experiences Resources and next steps from each guest, including tools, calculators, and upcoming episodes This episode reinforces a core Stacking Benjamins idea: kids don't learn money through perfect decisions. They learn through guided experience, honest conversations, and the freedom to practice while the stakes are still small. FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/how-to-teach-your-kids-about-money-1806 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/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Want your kids to grow into confident money decision-makers without turning every dinner conversation into a financial lecture? In this roundtable episode, Joe sits down with Livia (“Liv”) Roder, host of the Liv Lab Podcast, Karen Holland of GiftingSense.org, and John Lanza, host of the Art of Allowance Podcast to explore what actually helps kids understand money before the stakes get big. Instead of theory, this discussion focuses on real moments when money suddenly becomes real: college price tags, house-hunting sticker shock, allowances that run out too fast, and purchases that teach better lessons than any lecture ever could. The panel shares practical ways families can build financial confidence through everyday decisions, honest conversations, and a willingness to let kids learn by doing. What the Stacking Benjamins “Confident Explorer” will gain from this episode: How to talk about money naturally so kids see it as a life skill, not a stressful taboo topic Why modeling everyday behavior matters more than formal “money talks” A simple shift from “Can I have it?” to “Is it worth it?” that builds independent thinking How small spending mistakes become powerful teaching moments when handled without shame Ways to introduce big topics like college costs gradually so kids feel informed instead of overwhelmed Real-life money lessons that sparked the conversation: Livia's moments when money suddenly felt real, from college forms to realizing savings aren't just “bank numbers” Karen Holland's memorable eighth-grade back-to-school budget experiment Early allowance experiences that helped connect choices with consequences Why kids absorb far more from overheard conversations and daily habits than parents expect Practical strategies parents can use right away: Starting with simple allowance systems or “jars” to visualize spending, saving, and giving Karen's “Does It Make Sense?” pause to slow impulsive purchases Joe's “circle back” technique, revisiting purchases later to reflect without criticism Letting kids fail safely so regret becomes learning instead of embarrassment Helping kids split costs or contribute toward purchases to create ownership Navigating tougher parenting questions: Should kids see financial stress, or should parents shield them? How to practice age-appropriate honesty without creating anxiety Why financial jargon like FAFSA or taxes can unintentionally intimidate teens Bringing kids into real financial conversations so they build confidence early Money challenges unique to today's kids: Teaching spending awareness in a tap-to-pay, frictionless world Cash vs. cards vs. apps and how each changes behavior Building a “pause habit” before spending when transactions feel invisible If you could teach just one money skill… The panel compares their top priorities: Awareness of cash flow and where money actually goes Thinking before buying instead of reacting emotionally Paying yourself first and building saving habits early Plus, a little basement fun along the way: Favorite purchases that truly felt worth it (from snowboards to board games to a Kindle) Stories that prove money lessons stick best when tied to real experiences Resources and next steps from each guest, including tools, calculators, and upcoming episodes This episode reinforces a core Stacking Benjamins idea: kids don't learn money through perfect decisions. They learn through guided experience, honest conversations, and the freedom to practice while the stakes are still small. FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/how-to-teach-your-kids-about-money-1806 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