The Way to College Podcast

Sometimes the most important lessons we learn don't happen in a classroom. On this week's episode of The Way to College Podcast, my guest is Sean Phelps. Sean is the President of College Works Painting, and he offers some valuable advice for current college students.Sean shares how growing up with hardworking parents, taking on jobs at a young age, and seeking out opportunities early helped shape his college and career path. Today, he helps college students build real-world skills by teaching them how to run their own painting business, from sales and customer service to hiring, budgeting, leadership, and problem-solving.This conversation is a must-listen for students and parents who want young people to understand one simple truth: don’t wait until graduation to start building experience.If you’re a student trying to figure out your next step, or a parent wondering how to help your child prepare for life after college, this episode offers practical advice, honest reflection, and a powerful reminder that work experience can build confidence, direction, and opportunity.Listen now and share this episode with a student who needs to hear it.Sean's Links:www.collegeworks.com - for internships or summer jobs with college workshttps://www.kaceai.tools/ - for students wanting career help using ai tools (built by sean)www.seanpatrickphelps.com - to sign up for Sean's newsletterwww.linkedin.com/in/sean-phelps-2754782 - for Sean's LinkedIn

Everybody talks about college.Not enough people talk about skills.In this episode of The Way to College Podcast, I sit down with Mr. James Love, welding program director at Galveston College, and his story is exactly what students need to hear right now.James didn’t follow a perfect path. He made mistakes. He hit a roadblock. His original dream of working in pharmacy got shut down. But instead of letting that moment define him, he found another lane.That lane was welding.And it changed everything.James went from learning in the field, working in shipyards, and building a career with his hands to now leading one of the fastest-growing welding pathways for students in Galveston. Today, he’s helping young people earn college credit, gain real skills, and step into careers that can change their lives.This episode is about more than welding.It’s about second chances.It’s about work ethic.It’s about not quitting when life redirects you.And it’s about recognizing that success does not have to look the same for everybody.Students, parents, educators, counselors, this one matters.Listen now to hear how James Love turned a setback into a pathway and how he’s helping students build futures they can be proud of. Check it out now, and if this episode resonates with you or you think others NEED to hear it, share it.

What if your career is not supposed to be a straight line? If you're a regular listener of The Way to College Podcast, then you know that one's career is rarely a straight line. This is never more true than on the latest episode.In this episode, Dr. Jose Saldivar talks with Kate Crane, founder of Direction Over Perfection, about why careers are more like jungle gyms than ladders.Kate shares her journey from studying art history and business at UT Austin to working in the New York art world, navigating a layoff during the 2008 recession, exploring restaurant work, earning an MBA, moving into management consulting, and eventually building a career across DoorDash, Flock Safety, OpenTable, and career coaching.Her story is a powerful reminder for students and young professionals: you do not need to make a perfect decision. You need to keep moving, stay curious, ask good questions, and learn from every experience.This conversation is especially valuable for students thinking about majors, careers, internships, networking, and life after college.Kate’s message is clear: you are the best advocate for your life and your career.Listen now for an honest, practical, and encouraging conversation about building a career with direction, confidence, and flexibility.

What happens when a student realizes they are not “bad” at a subject, they just learn differently?In this episode of The Way to College Podcast, Dr. Jose L. Saldivar speaks with Dr. Tara Williams, chemistry professor and founder of Innovative Collegiate Consultants, about her journey from struggling with math to earning a Ph.D. in chemistry and supporting neurodivergent students.Dr. Williams shares how one geometry lesson helped her understand the power of visual learning, why self-advocacy matters in college, and how students can use support services, accommodations, tutoring, and communication with professors to succeed.This conversation is a reminder that college success is not about doing everything alone. It is about learning how you learn, asking for help early, and finding the support that helps you move forward.To learn more about Dr. Williams' services, check out her website: https://innovativecollegiateconsultants.com/summer-programs-services/

What happens when the path you chose no longer fits? Andrea Sotomayor shares her journey from pre-med student to entrepreneur, strategist, and founder, with honest lessons on failure, resilience, and self-awareness. This episode is for students and professionals learning that success is rarely a straight line.

Dr. Fred Fuentes joins The Way to College Podcast to share a powerful story of growth, resilience, and purpose. From being told he was not “college material” to serving in the military, earning multiple degrees, and dedicating his life to mentoring others, Dr. Fuentes reflects on what it means to take ownership of your journey. In this episode, we talk about first-generation experiences, mental health, mentorship, legacy, and the importance of believing in yourself even when the path is unclear.Tune in for an honest and inspiring conversation that will resonate with students, educators, counselors, and anyone navigating their own next step.

In this episode of The Way to College Podcast, Dr. Jose Saldivar sits down with Kayla Mendez, a climbing arborist and business owner based in San Antonio, Texas. Kayla shares how an unexpected entrepreneurship class during her final semester of college helped shift how she saw her future and opened her mind to building something of her own.Their conversation explores uncertainty, entrepreneurship, comparison, persistence, and the pressure young people feel to have everything figured out early. Kayla speaks honestly about choosing an unconventional path, building a business through setbacks, and learning to follow curiosity rather than other people’s expectations.This episode is a powerful reminder that success does not always follow a straight line — and that sometimes the most unexpected opportunities can shape your future in the biggest ways.In this episode, we discuss:Why you do not have to have your life figured out at 18How unexpected opportunities can lead to meaningful workThe realities of entrepreneurship and starting from scratchWhy curiosity, openness, and persistence matterWhat students can learn from unconventional career journeys

In this episode of The Way to College Podcast, Dr. Jose Saldivar sits down with licensed funeral director and embalmer Arielle Caraveo. We talk resilience, reinvention, and pivoting when life does not go according to plan. From academic probation at UT Austin to launching her own funeral home and founding a nonprofit inspired by her own traumatic birth experience, Arielle shares a story marked by courage, faith, and perseverance. Throughout the conversation, Arielle reflects on entrepreneurship, work-life balance, grief, motherhood, and the power of pivoting without losing sight of your purpose. This episode is for anyone navigating setbacks, chasing a dream, or trying to build a meaningful life despite unexpected challenges.

In the second part of my conversation with @KenMillerSpeaks is a practical masterclass on mentorship, boundaries, and life skills. In this episode, we talk about:Why mentorship matters (and what a real mentor actually does)The 4 life skills Ken believes college students should build:Self-audit/self-reflectionLearning how to ask for help and opportunitiesPublic speaking and confidenceLearning how to say no (boundaries = leadership)How overload and overcommitting can quietly derail your purposeKen’s guiding principle: “Seek truth… then do the next indicated correct thing.”If you’ve been feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of your next move, this episode will help you get clear and take the next step.🎧 Follow The Way to College Podcast for more honest conversations and practical tools for college, career, and life.

From foster care to the Ivy League to rebuilding after addiction and rock bottom. Ken Miller’s story is proof that your next chapter can be your best one. Ken and Dr. Jose Saldivar talk self-esteem, counseling, guilt vs. shame, Ken’s “4 buckets” growth framework, and why you should “not play in the gray.”🎧 Follow, listen, and share with someone who needs hope today.Content note: addiction, incarceration, suicide attempts. (U.S. support: 988)

In this week’s episode of The Way to College Podcast, I’m joined by Dr. Hortencia Jimenez, a sociologist and tenured community college professor at Hartnell College. Dr. Jimenez is also a certified health coach + fitness instructor, and a creator who’s building a powerful platform around identity, healing, mental health, and body liberation.We talk about:redefining “education” beyond classroomshow sociology gave her language for understanding systems, power, and belongingnavigating academia as a parentchoosing family and community over prestige and having zero regretswhy protecting your mental health isn’t optionaland what it looks like to be unapologetic about who you areThis is a powerful episode, one that I'm sure will resonate with my listeners. If this episode hits home, share it with one other person and remember, our stories matter.Follow Dr. Hortencia Jimenez:🌐 www.hortenciajimenez.com📸 Instagram: @drhortenciajimenez🎵 TikTok: @drhortenciajimenez

In this episode of The Way to College Podcast, Dr. Jose Saldivar sits down with Mya Andersen, independent academic life coach and founder of The Student Empowered, to break down the hidden curriculum of college, or the stuff students aren’t explicitly taught, but are still expected to master.Mya has spent 20+ years working on campuses and saw the same pattern again and again: support is often passive, and schools intervene only when there’s a crisis. But when the conversation starts at crisis-level, the focus becomes the problem, not the student.What you’ll learn in this episode:Why being “college capable” isn’t the same as being “college ready.”How to use office hours like a doctor’s appointment (and build real relationships with professors)Why college is a big-ticket purchase… and what it looks like to protect your ROIWhen students should start using career services (hint: earlier than most people think)For parents: share the real version of your college experienceIf you’re a student, parent, educator, or advisor who’s ever thought, “Why didn’t anyone tell me this?” this one’s for you.🎧 Listen now, then share this episode with one student (or one parent) who needs to hear this conversation. And if you're interested in learning more about The Student Empowered and Mya's services, you can find her here:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/myaandersen1928/Website: https://thestudentempowered.com/Instagram: @the_student_empowered

This week on The Way to College Podcast, I’m joined by Jeannie Salinas, founder of Book-E Bus, the Rio Grande Valley’s first mobile bookstore.Jeannie’s story is a masterclass in pivoting with purpose: from earning her business degree at The University of Texas-Pan American, working in retail, helping run her family’s insurance business, and eventually turning a lifelong love of books into a full-on community experience on wheels.In this episode, we talk about:How she turned a side hustle into a real businessThe mindset shift from “I’m stuck” to “I’m building”Why experience + community matterMentorship, budgeting, and learning the “hidden rules” of college and careersWhat it takes to bet on yourself without losing yourselfIf you’re a student, parent, educator, or entrepreneur—this one will light a fire.The Book-E bus will be in Weslaco on February 28th. Follow the Book-E bus on Instagram: @thebookebus

This episode is the reminder you didn’t know you needed.Dr. Jose L. Saldivar sits down with Behdad Jamshidi, a former engineer who became a marketing connector, helping businesses avoid costly mistakes by pairing them with the right marketing partners. He’s spoken with 1,100+ agencies/experts, and what he learned applies way beyond marketing: your career grows at the speed of your relationships.If you’re a student, early-career professional, or someone trying to pivot… this one’s for you.✅ In this episode, we talk about:Why the people skills you ignore become the skills that pay youHow Behdad moved up—not by being the “smartest,” but by being the most effective communicatorThe simple way to find mentors (without being awkward)What to do when you feel stuck: action creates clarityThe truth about fear: it doesn’t disappear—you get stronger🔥 Quick challenge after you listen:Message one person you respect today and ask: “What’s one move you’d make if you were me?”Then actually do it.🎧 Hit play, and if one moment resonates—share this episode with a friend who needs that push.Connect with Behdad:CJAM Marketing Connector: https://cjammarketing.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/behdadjamshidi/https://www.facebook.com/beeee.jamhttps://www.instagram.com/behdadjamshidi_/https://www.instagram.com/themarketingconnector_/

Who shapes what Texas students learn? Dr. Jose Saldivar talks with Thomas Ray Garcia, an educator and candidate for the Texas State Board of Education (District 2), about curriculum, textbooks, graduation requirements, charter approvals, and what families are truly concerned about right now: literacy, safety, and the attention economy.

In this episode of The Way to College Podcast, Dr. Jose Saldivar sits down with Jillian Reilly (joining us from Cape Town, South Africa) to talk about the invisible “success script” so many students feel pressured to follow — and how to rewrite it with courage, clarity, and action.We unpack:Why the “linear life” is a myth (and what to do instead)How to stop outsourcing your choices to approval from othersThe difference between support, resources… and permissionA practical way to take your next step even when you’re unsureJillian is the author of “The 10 Permissions,” and her message is simple: get out into the real world, and let it teach you.🎧 Listen now, then share this episode with one student (or parent) who needs a reset.Learn more: https://tenpermissions.com/

Too many families are told, “Just apply for scholarships,” and then left to figure it out alone—while tuition climbs and student debt keeps stacking.To kick off a new season of The Way to College Podcast, Dr. Jose Saldivar sits down with Jocelyn Pearson, founder of The Scholarship System, to break down what actually works when you’re trying to make college affordable—especially for families stuck in the “income gap” (not enough aid, not enough cash).You’ll hear:How to “follow the money” when choosing schools (and why affordability starts before scholarships)A simple weekly routine (think: 2 hours/week) that keeps scholarship stress from taking over your lifeWhat to avoid with “easy” scholarships and inbox-filling trapsHow to build reusable materials (essays, stories, lists) so you’re not starting from scratch every timeThe biggest myths that derail parents and students—and the mindset shift that gets results🎧 Listen now, and check the link to access The Scholarship System site and their resources: https://thescholarshipsystem.com/waytocollegeIf this episode helps you, follow the show, share it with a parent or student who needs a plan, and leave a quick rating—it really helps more families find the podcast.

In this episode of The Way to College Podcast, Dr. Jose Saldivar talks with Kevin Krebs, a first-generation college graduate and founder of Hello College. Kevin shares how his parents’ belief that education is the great equalizer shaped his journey from immigrant roots to Northwestern University and ultimately to building one of the world’s leading college planning companies.He offers practical advice for students and families navigating the admissions process — including his SAFE framework (Social, Academic, Financial, and Employment fit) — and insights on staying resilient, proactive, and prepared.🔗 Learn more at sayhellocollege.com

In this week’s episode of The Way to College Podcast, Dr. Jose Saldivar sits down with motivational speaker and author Jonathan Medina — America’s #1 School Motivator.From a shy middle schooler in the Rio Grande Valley to a Georgetown University graduate and national speaker, Jonathan shares how a single college visit through GEAR UP sparked his dream, how one counselor’s doubt nearly stopped him, and how another educator’s belief changed everything.Listen as Jonathan reflects on his journey, his advice for students starting college, and his message to all educators: “Dream big, and help others do the same.”🎙️ Tune in and get inspired. Don't forget to share the episode and inspire others. #podcast #latino #dreambig #jonathanmedina #georgetown #gearupworks

In Part II of my conversation with Dr. Cristóbal Rodríguez, Associate Vice Provost for Equity-Centered Initiatives at Arizona State University, we explore the politics shaping education today—and the urgent need to build coalitions across communities.Dr. Rodríguez discusses the threats facing public education, the role of systemic inequality, and how division undermines opportunity for all students. But amid the challenges, he reminds us that hope endures—in the stories of students, families, and educators who continue to plant seeds for a better future.Join us as we reflect on what it means to educate, to lead, and to believe in the collective power of communities working together for change.🎙️ Listen now and share this episode with someone who believes education should remain a public good for all.

In this episode of The Way to College Podcast, Dr. Jose Saldivar sits down with Dr. Cristóbal Rodríguez, a leading voice in education policy and equity. From growing up in El Paso to earning a congressional scholarship that took him to Germany at age 16, Dr. Rodríguez shares the pivotal moments that shaped his journey. He reflects on working with migrant and tribal communities, serving on the White House Commission on Educational Excellence, and why affirming students’ cultural and familial assets is critical to building opportunity.This is a conversation about purpose, resilience, and the ongoing fight for educational access.🎙 Listen now and be inspired by Dr. Rodríguez’s story of service, community, and leadership.

This week on The Way to College Podcast, Dr. Jose Saldivar speaks with brothers Jack and Evan Goldstein about their unique journeys and their mission to transform the college search experience for students.Jack Goldstein is a freshman at the University of Pennsylvania, studying political science and exploring opportunities in law and politics.Evan Goldstein is a high school sophomore at Jesuit High School in Portland, Oregon, navigating extracurriculars, mock trial, and his first steps toward college.Together, they co-founded Quadzio, a platform that connects high school students directly with college ambassadors across more than 110 campuses. Their goal? To give students an authentic look into campus life—beyond brochures and scripted tours.🎓 In this episode:How mock trial and internships shaped Jack’s academic pathEvan’s perspective on preparing for the college journeyWhy traditional college tours often fall shortThe story behind Quadzio and its fast-growing network of ambassadorsWhether you’re a student, parent, or educator, this conversation underscores the importance of authentic voices in helping students make one of life’s most significant decisions.

What does it mean to follow curiosity through every stage of life?This week, Dr. Jose Saldivar sits down with Ben Yzaguirre, Vice President of Education & Conferences at the School Nutrition Association. From a childhood spent exploring his home in rural Maryland to teaching high school history, to designing curriculum, and ultimately finding his place in the world of associations, Ben’s story highlights the importance of staying true to yourself while embracing change.In this episode, Ben shares:How boredom sparked a lifelong curiosityWhy small colleges can be the right fit for introvertsLessons learned from leaving the classroomOvercoming imposter syndrome when working with world-class expertsThe role of associations in professional and personal growth✨ Quote to remember: “Be bored, and then be curious.”Tune in for a thoughtful conversation on education, career pivots, and building a fulfilling professional journey.

This week, Dr. Jose Saldivar sits down with Iuri Melo, licensed clinical social worker, author, and co-founder of SchoolPulse. From his journey growing up in Portugal to building a proactive student mental health platform, Iuri shares how adaptability, curiosity, and a commitment to growth shaped his path.In this episode:The twists and turns of Iuri’s educational journeyWhy it’s okay to not have “just one” purpose or career pathHow SchoolPulse is redefining student mental fitnessPractical advice for students: go into the world with confidence🎧 Tune in for a powerful conversation on resilience, reinvention, and the importance of proactive mental health support for young people.

This week on The Way to College Podcast, I welcome Daniel Santos, founder and CEO of Prepory. They have guided over 14,000 students worldwide through the college admissions process.Daniel opens up about his educational journey, the lessons he learned along the way, and how those experiences inspired him to help students and families navigate the complex college admissions process.www.prepory.comListen in as we discuss:✔️ Why starting early in high school is critical✔️ How authenticity beats any “secret formula”✔️ The importance of reflection and challenging the stories we tell ourselves✔️ Why the how of college matters more than the whereWhether you’re a student preparing for applications or a parent supporting your child, this episode offers valuable strategies and perspective.#CollegeJourney #AdmissionsProcess #Prepory #CollegeReadiness #EducationPodcast #StudentSuccess #TheWayToCollege

Trailblazer La Tonya “LT” Rease Miles returns to share the story behind her memoir Smart Girl and new Smart Girl podcast. We talk first-gen identity, breaking the “one path” myth, and why telling your story matters now more than ever. Check it out, now! #firstgen #smartgirl #podcast #journey #paths #storySmart Girl Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2459505/episodes/17411979

In this episode, I sit down with Justin Reyes—South Texas native, Texas A&M alum, and mission-driven professional—who shares his powerful journey from a small ranching town to leadership roles in national associations and professional networks.Justin opens up about:The influence of his hardworking motherNavigating imposter syndrome and academic probation in collegeHow getting involved transformed his college experienceThe unexpected career path that led him to Washington, D.C.His advice for first-year students and those applying to college nowWhether you’re a student, educator, or professional, this episode is a reminder that your path may not be linear—but it’s always yours to shape.🎧 Tune in and get inspired by Justin’s story of resilience, growth, and service.#TheWayToCollegePodcast #FirstGenVoices #CollegeSuccess #LatinoLeadership

Pamela Maldonado—sports betting analyst for ESPN and the Tennis Channel—joins The Way to College Podcast to share how she transformed curiosity, hustle, and self-taught skills into a national media career.We explore:Her bold move from Texas to Las Vegas with no planBreaking into media without a journalism degreeLessons from poker that apply to life and workHow she built a brand around analysis and storytellingThe power of leaning into what brings you joyPamela’s story is a reminder that success isn’t always planned—and that sometimes, taking a chance on yourself is the best bet you can make.

In this episode of The Way to College Podcast, I sit down with Sam Bernstein, co-founder of Loper, a free mobile app designed to guide high school students through their college and career exploration journey.Sam shares how his professional journey started at a prestigious hedge fund in New York City. Feeling unfulfilled, Sam began creating a student-centered tech platform to address educational inequality. We dive into his personal journey, the pivotal moments that reshaped his purpose, and how Loper is helping students discover the right post-high school path—whether it’s a four-year university, trade school, or something else entirely.💡 Highlights:Why Sam walked away from Wall StreetThe role of privilege and perspective in college accessHow Loper personalizes the college discovery processAdvice for students feeling overwhelmed by decisions“Time is long,” Sam reminds us, encouraging young people to be patient with the process and open to growth along the way.🎙️ Tune in to hear how one app is helping students reimagine what comes next.

In this episode, attorney Ezra Brown joins me to share his powerful journey—from growing up in a working-class Jewish household to practicing law and leading pro bono efforts at the border. Ezra opens up about the culture shock of attending UT Law, the hard lessons he learned navigating the LSAT, and the strategies he used to avoid crushing law school debt. He also offers actionable advice for aspiring law students, especially those from first-gen backgrounds.🎧 Whether you're thinking about law school or passionate about educational equity, Ezra’s story is packed with insight, honesty, and hard-won wisdom. #lawschooljourney #firstgenlawyer #attorney #biglaw #lawschooltips #educationalequity #accesstoeducation #higheredmatters #firstgensuccess #careertalk #inspirationdaily #storytelling

Maria Jose Cook moved to the U.S. at 14, undocumented and uncertain about her future. Today, Maria is the Associate Director at ISPOR and travels the world connecting leaders in healthcare. In this episode, Maria shares how self-advocacy, grit, and staying true to her values helped her build a fulfilling life and career. A must-listen for anyone navigating uncertainty or carving out their unique path. Let's jump in.#podcast #healthcare #journey #nonprofit #latina #latinaleadership #story

This week on The Way to College Podcast, I’m joined by Sam Garcia—a Mission, Texas native who went from taking dual credit courses at South Texas College to earning a degree from Harvard Law and becoming a partner at the venture capital firm Amplo.In this episode, Sam shares:How early planning (and a few strategic A’s) helped him get into Harvard LawWhy dual credit courses in high school can shape your future more than you thinkWhat it means to take smart risks—even when you don’t have it all figured outHis path from law school to teaching at Harvard and leading VC dealsThe story behind writing for Forbes and The Guardian while still a student💡 Whether you're a student, educator, or professional, Sam’s journey is a masterclass in intentionality, hustle, and saying yes to opportunity.🎧 Listen now and learn how to stack the odds in your favor—starting today.

From immigrant kid in Miami to Executive Director of a national organization, Dr. Celia Chomon Zamora’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and radical self-belief. In this episode, we talk about the power of language, walking away from West Point, navigating rejection, and finding your true calling—even when it doesn’t come with a roadmap. Celia opens up about leading with purpose, advocating for heritage speakers, and why failure is often the best teacher.🎓 Whether you're a student, educator, or mid-career dreamer, this is for you. Let's jump in!

What does it take to leave a stable career, move countries, and start a company from scratch—all in the name of purpose? In this episode, Sharon Samjitsingh, CEO and co-founder of Healthcare Originals, shares her inspiring journey from Trinidad and Tobago to Rochester, NY, where she launched a startup helping people with asthma and COPD thrive. We talk resilience, first-gen college life, the immigrant founder experience, and why the long game matters more than overnight success. Check it out!#EdEquity #WomenInTech #FoundersJourney #CollegeToCareer #TheWayToCollegePodcast #ImmigrantFounder #FirstGenSuccess

This week, Felida Villarreal, President and CEO of VIDA eht no em snioj ,podcast. From early college to CPA to nonprofit leadership, Felida shares how her educational journey and openness to opportunity led her to mission-driven work transforming lives across the Rio Grande Valley. This is definitely an episode you don't want to miss.

In this powerful episode, author Dorotea Reyna shares her journey from a small South Texas pueblo to Stanford and UT Austin—and how language, identity, and memory shaped her path. We discuss the bittersweet experience of gaining academic success while feeling cultural loss, the power of storytelling, and what inspired her to write Los Cedros: A Tejana Memoir.From resisting silence to honoring her community with words, Dorotea reminds us that our voices matter—and that sometimes, writing is the most powerful form of resistance.📘 Get her book: Los Cedros: A Tejana Memoir💬 Share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

🎧 New Episode Drop!Carlos Cardenas is living proof that detours don’t define you — persistence does.From serving his country to serving his community, Carlos opens up about his educational journey, his battles with self-doubt, and his drive to elevate Latino leadership.If you’ve ever needed a reminder that your story isn’t over, this is it.👉 Listen now!#Persistence #VeteranVoices #LatinoExcellence #WayToCollegePodcast

In this episode, I sit down with Mayra Valle—educational consultant, facilitator, and owner of Mayra V. Strategy. From growing up in a close-knit immigrant community in Houston to launching her own consulting business, Mayra shares a journey rooted in resilience, culture, and community. We talk about identity, the power of education, learning to rest, and what it truly means to be community-made.🔑 Topics: first-gen student experience, college transitions, education equity, entrepreneurship, cultural identity, self-care

In this inspiring episode, Dr. Vanessa Fonseca Chavez—Associate Dean of Inclusion and Student Success and Assistant Vice Provost at Arizona State University—takes us through her powerful journey from rural New Mexico to academic leadership.Vanessa reflects on the early experiences that shaped her—being underestimated, navigating college as a young mother, and discovering her purpose through language and culture. Her story is one of grit, identity, and the impact of community support.Whether you're a student trying to find your way, a professional facing self-doubt, or someone searching for meaning in your work—this episode is for you.Tune in to hear:✅ Why resilience matters more than a perfect GPA✅ The value of asking questions and owning what you don’t know✅ How embracing your identity can lead to professional purpose#journey #grit #resilience #education #latina #Chicana #newmexico #asu

Ep. 181 – Caroline Graham: Reinvention, Resilience & the Power of Showing UpFrom ballet dreams and Stanford ambitions to the classrooms of East Palo Alto and a career at Boeing, Caroline Graham’s story is a powerful reminder that our paths are rarely linear. In this episode, Caroline shares how love, loss, and an unshakable belief in meaningful work shaped her journey. We talk about navigating career pivots, embracing failure, the importance of asking for help, and finding purpose in unexpected places.Whether you’re chasing a dream, starting over, or simply trying to figure things out—Caroline’s story will move you.Let's jump into it!

How does one go from being a first-generation college student to a trailblazing educator? In this episode of The Way to College Podcast, Dr. Roberta Treviño shares her inspiring journey through higher education, the mentors who shaped her path, and her mission to create opportunities for future generations.Dr. Treviño’s story is one of resilience, determination, and the power of education to transform lives. Whether you’re a student navigating your college journey or an educator looking for ways to support first-gen learners, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. Check it out now and don't forget to share the podcast. #FirstGenSuccess #EducationMatters #zapata #southtexas #latina #TheWaytoCollegePodcast

🎙 Episode 179: Finding Purpose Through Conservation with Sara Lopez 🌿In this episode of The Way to College Podcast, we sit down with Sara Lopez, founder of The Jungle Journal, to explore her inspiring journey from the fast-paced world of advertising in New York to the heart of rainforest conservation in Mexico’s Lacandona Jungle.Sara shares how studying abroad in Morocco first ignited her passion for cultural exploration, why she walked away from corporate life to pursue more meaningful work, and how she’s now using storytelling and education to raise awareness about environmental conservation.🌎 Listen as we discuss:✔️ The power of stepping outside your comfort zone✔️ Finding purpose through travel and cultural connection✔️ The evolution of The Jungle Journal from a publication to a movement✔️ Why educating young people about conservation is more important than everSara’s story is a powerful reminder that sometimes, forging your path leads to the most fulfilling work.#Podcast #PodcastEpisode #NewPodcast #PodcastLife #Podcaster #Conservation #Rainforest #EnvironmentalAwareness #Sustainability #EcoWarrior #EducationMatters #StudentSuccess #LifelongLearning #Inspiration #Motivation #GrowthMindset #FollowYourPassion #LevelUp🎧 Tune in now!

How do you stand out in a competitive world? Kelley Francis, Executive Director of the High Tech Foundation, shares her inspiring journey from a determined high school student to a leader in tech education. In this episode, we talk about the power of boldness, the impact of mentorship, and why stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to your biggest breakthroughs.Tag a friend who needs to hear this! ⬇️ #WayToCollegePodcast #Mentorship #CareerSuccess #BoldMoves #TechEducation

🎙️ From Stand-Up to Standout: The Journey of Jacob James GarciaWhat happens when a stand-up comedian discovers his true stage isn’t just comedy clubs, but classrooms and conferences?This week on The Way to College Podcast, I sit down with Jacob James Garcia, a comedian-turned-motivational speaker and children’s author. Jacob shares his incredible journey—how 23 years in stand-up prepared him for a career inspiring students, educators, and professionals with humor, perspective, and heartfelt storytelling.We talk about resilience, finding purpose in unexpected places, and why embracing life’s detours can lead to the most fulfilling destinations. Whether you're chasing a dream, navigating career shifts, or simply in need of a good laugh, this episode is for you!Check it out now and don't forget to share the episode with one other person. #podcast #journey #MotivationalSpeaker #Inspiration #MindsetMatters #DreamBigWorkHard #BeYourOwnBoss #Comedian #StandUpComedy #ComedyLife #LaughOutLoud #Humor #Hopecore #PositiveVibes #GrowthMindset #Resilience #OvercomingObstacles

🎙️ From Setbacks to Growth: A Conversation with Dr. Michelle SinghWhat if the setbacks in your life were actually stepping stones to something greater?In this episode of The Way to College Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Michelle Singh, an educator, consultant, and advocate for culturally responsive teaching. From being turned away from school as a child in Jamaica to earning multiple degrees and transforming education, Michelle’s journey is a powerful lesson in resilience, self-discovery, and redefining success.We talk about the pressures of academic achievement, overcoming imposter syndrome, and the importance of seeing the lesson and the blessing in every challenge. Whether you're a student, educator, or lifelong learner, this conversation will leave you inspired.#PodcastCommunity #ShareYourStory #SubscribeNow #CulturallyResponsiveTeaching #EdLeadership #Inspiration #Motivation #Empowerment #NeverGiveUp #Leadership

In Part 2 of my conversation with John Espinoza, we dive into his journey as a writer, educator, and advocate for undocumented students. From teaching at the National Hispanic University to becoming a trusted "poetry coach" for Sandra Cisneros, John shares how creativity and community shaped his unconventional career. #TheWayToCollegePodcast #EducationMatters #JohnEspinoza #UndocumentedStudents #LifelongLearning #podcast #journey #sandracisneros #latinoliterature #writing #writingcoach

Episode 174: Poetry, Perseverance, and Pathways – A Conversation with John Espinoza (Part I) In this episode, I visit with poet and writer John Olivarez Espinoza to explore his educational journey, creative pursuits, and the life experiences that shaped his art. From growing up in rural Southern California to finding his voice through poetry, John shares poignant stories about family, identity, and navigating higher education as a first-generation college student. He also reads his evocative poem, Achy Knees in Palm Springs, giving listeners a glimpse into his acclaimed collection, The Date Fruit Elegies. Don’t miss this inspiring first part of John’s story, filled with reflections on resilience, creativity, and community. Check it out and don't forget to share the podcast with one person. John and I would appreciate it. #podcast #journey #poet #literaryconsultant #indio #writer #story #firstgen #latino

This week on, The Way to College Podcast, I am joined again by Dr. Jose Navarro. This is the second part of our conversation and in this episode Dr. Navarro talks about navigating graduate school and his post-graduate career pathway. If you've ever thought about teaching in higher education, check out this enlightening conversation. Let's go! #podcast #thewaytocollegepodcast #journey #graduateschool #gradstudies #education #latino #chicano #highered

This week on The Way to College Podcast, I’m joined by Dr. Jose Navarro, Chair of the Ethnic Studies Department at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. Despite his impressive academic achievements, Jose’s path to success was far from straightforward. In this episode, we delve into his inspiring journey from growing up in the Ramona Gardens housing projects of East Los Angeles to becoming a respected scholar and educator. Tune in to hear how determination, resilience, and a passion for education shaped Jose’s remarkable story.

Before we close out the year, we have one final episode of The Way to College Podcast. In this week's episode, Dr. Susan Saucedo shares her inspiring journey from a tight-knit immigrant community in Los Angeles to becoming a family medicine physician. Dr. Saucedo opens up about the mentors who shaped her path and her passion for serving underserved communities. Her story is a powerful story of resilience and adaptability. 💬 Share your thoughts and tag a friend who needs this inspiration!