Episodes

  • David Lawal on Alternative Pathways to Success | Edu Steps
    Feb 13 2026

    In this episode of 'Edu Steps In Person with Laddering Your Success,' Olay Shorunke and Festus Amoye sit down with their lifelong friend David Lawal. David shares his inspirational journey from growing up in a tough area of ALIEF through various educational and career paths to becoming a successful process technician at Exxon Mobil. This episode highlights the importance of pursuing alternative pathways beyond the traditional college route, the value of continuous learning, and maintaining integrity. The discussion delves into David's experiences, from attending community college and working at Discount Tire to navigating the challenging field of process technology. David also offers valuable advice for young people on balancing personal happiness with career aspirations, especially in a landscape where trades and vocational skills are increasingly important. Tune in for an insightful and heartfelt conversation that could broaden your perspective on education and career success.

    00:00 - Introduction and Welcome

    00:11 - Reflecting on the Journey

    00:41 - Introducing David Lawal

    01:30 - David's Educational Pathway

    02:37 - Challenges and Decisions

    04:06 - Discovering Process Technology

    07:21 - Navigating a New Career

    12:27 - Personal Stories and Reflections

    17:28 - Advice for Young People

    18:17 - The Harsh Reality of Professional Sports

    18:30 - The Value of Education Over Sports

    20:33 - Alternative Career Paths: Trades and Certificates

    22:30 - Personal Experiences and Advice for the Youth

    27:11 - The Importance of Continuous Learning

    34:13 - Closing Thoughts and Future Plans

    Do you need help figuring things out as a student? College? Scholarships? Life purpose? Don't worry! We got you! Each episode of the LYS Podcast discusses all that and more!

    Connect with us to be updated with announcements, events, and all things LYS:

    Website - https://ladderingyoursuccess.com/

    Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ladderingyoursuccess/

    LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/ladderingyoursuccess/

    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/beknowdo_lys/

    Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@ladderingyoursuccess3177

    Email - info@ladderingyoursuccess.com

    #pocasts #edusteps #ladderingyoursuccess #student #collegetok #college #trade #scholarships

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    36 mins
  • Find Legit Scholarships Fast | Steps for Success
    Feb 6 2026

    In this episode, we break down how to find legitimate scholarships in just 30 minutes. We address common misconceptions about scholarships, such as the belief that they are only for top students, and provide practical steps to identify and apply for various types of scholarships. Learn the difference between merit-based and needs-based scholarships, and discover reliable sources and databases to kick-start your search. We'll also assign some actionable homework to help you stay on track in your scholarship search. Join Dr. Jamarc Crawford, Daniel Hill, and Olay Shorunke as they offer insights and tips for success. Share this with friends in need of direction and make sure to subscribe for more steps to success!

    00:00 Welcome to Edu Steps: Steps for Success

    00:23 Common Misconceptions About Scholarships

    01:30 Understanding Different Types of Scholarships

    02:51 Finding Legitimate Scholarship Sources

    06:19 Practical Steps to Secure Scholarships

    07:29 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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    8 mins
  • Unlock Scholarship Success (Part 2) | Edu Steps
    Jan 30 2026

    In this episode of Edu Steps, the team challenges the common notion that college is the ultimate path to success. Using the LYS Be-Know-Do system, they explore the idea that true freedom is more important than merely attending college. The hosts discuss the importance of defining personal freedom before making post-high school decisions, breaking down how equating success with college can limit opportunities. They emphasize understanding one’s values, resources, and executing a well-informed plan. Tune in to learn why a well-rounded education and planning—not just a college degree—can lead to a fulfilled and purpose-driven life.

    00:00 Welcome to Edu Steps

    00:21 Introducing the Squad

    01:06 Defining Success and Freedom

    08:27 The Importance of Knowing

    11:59 Taking Action: The Do Phase

    20:30 Conclusion and Next Steps

    Do you need help figuring things out as a student? College? Scholarships? Life purpose? Don't worry! We got you! Each episode of the LYS Podcast discusses all that and more! Connect with us to be updated with announcements, events, and all things LYS:

    Website - https://ladderingyoursuccess.com/

    Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ladderingyoursuccess/

    LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/ladderingyoursuccess/

    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/beknowdo_lys/

    Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@ladderingyoursuccess3177

    Email - info@ladderingyoursuccess.com#pocasts #edusteps #ladderingyoursuccess #student #collegetok #college #scholarship #scholarships

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    22 mins
  • Unlock Scholarship Success | Edu Steps
    Jan 23 2026

    Happy New Year! Welcome to Laddering Your Success where we clear confusion for families, ensuring students graduate with confidence and direction. Today, we spotlight why most parents miss scholarship money and how to avoid this using our LYS Be-Know-Do system. Hear insights from our founder Festus, Dr. Crawford, and Daniel Hill as they discuss the importance of proactive planning, shifting parental identity, and the myths that delay families from applying for scholarships. Discover actionable steps to prepare your child from eighth grade through senior year, helping them attain financial aid and avoid anxiety. Tune in and transform your child's educational journey!

    00:00 Welcome and New Year Greetings

    01:45 Introduction to Scholarship Discussion

    02:09 The Importance of Parental Identity

    05:37 Emotional and Academic Consequences of Late Planning

    10:26 Understanding Scholarship Myths

    14:21 Action Steps for Scholarship Success

    18:23 Final Thoughts and Next Episode Preview

    Do you need help figuring things out as a student? College? Scholarships? Life purpose? Don't worry! We got you! Each episode of the LYS Podcast discusses all that and more! Connect with us to be updated with announcements, events, and all things LYS:

    Website - https://ladderingyoursuccess.com/

    Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ladderingyoursuccess/

    LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/ladderingyoursuccess/

    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/beknowdo_lys/

    Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@ladderingyoursuccess3177

    Email - info@ladderingyoursuccess.com

    #pocasts #edusteps #ladderingyoursuccess #student #collegetok #college #scholarship #scholarships

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    20 mins
  • 2025 Wrapped, 2026 Ready | Edu Steps
    Dec 27 2025

    Join Olay Shorunke and the team at Laddering Your Success for the final episode of Edu Steps in 2025. This short but impactful episode takes a look back at the highs and lows of 2025, offering valuable insights and real predictions for 2026 that can make a difference in your life, education, and future. Hear from key guests like Festus Amoye, Dr. Crawford, and Daniel Hill as they discuss the importance of mentorship, the role of AI in classrooms, the need for mental health integration, and the evolving landscape of education. Plus, gather tips for personal growth and steps to set yourself up for success in 2026. Don't miss this comprehensive year-end wrap-up and guidance for the new year ahead.

    00:00 - Introduction and Greetings

    03:51 - Reflecting on 2025: The Good and the Bad

    10:53 - Student Insights and Lessons Learned

    14:44 - Hot Takes for 2026

    21:16 - The Importance of Mentorship and Purpose

    22:11 - Social Media and Overstimulation in 2025

    23:09 - Advice for Students in 2026

    23:33 - Trusting the Process Over Outcomes

    27:16 - Predictions for 2026

    28:45 - The Be-Know-Do Breakdown

    31:14 - Funniest Memes of 2025

    35:20 - The Glow Up Challenge for 2026

    36:13 - Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

    Do you need help figuring things out as a student? College? Scholarships? Life purpose? Don't worry! We got you! Each episode of the LYS Podcast discusses all that and more! Connect with us to be updated with announcements, events, and all things LYS:Website - https://ladderingyoursuccess.com/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ladderingyoursuccess/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/ladderingyoursuccess/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/beknowdo_lys/Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@ladderingyoursuccess3177Email - info@ladderingyoursuccess.com#pocasts #edusteps #ladderingyoursuccess #student #newyear #goalsetting

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    39 mins
  • Mastering Finals Week - Part 2 | Edu Steps
    Dec 19 2025

    Join us as we dive into a crucial episode on surviving Finals Week. Our lively discussion covers the chaos and emotional turmoil faced by students during exams, backed by research showing that 77% experience significant stress. Do you need help figuring things out as a student? College? Scholarships? Life purpose? Don't worry! We got you! Each episode of the LYS Podcast discusses all that and more! Connect with us to be updated with announcements, events, and all things LYS:Website - https://ladderingyoursuccess.com/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ladderingyoursuccess/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/ladderingyoursuccess/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/beknowdo_lys/Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@ladderingyoursuccess3177Email - info@ladderingyoursuccess.com#pocasts #edusteps #ladderingyoursuccess #student #finals #finalsweek

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    14 mins
  • Mastering Finals Week - Part 1 | Edu Steps
    Dec 12 2025

    Join us as we dive into a crucial episode on surviving Finals Week. Our lively discussion covers the chaos and emotional turmoil faced by students during exams, backed by research showing that 77% experience significant stress. Featuring our distinguished crew—Festus Amoye, Dr. Jamarc Crawford, and Daniel Hill—we explore the Be-Know-Do methodology to tackle finals with excellence. Learn about the impact of mindset, effective study habits, sleep's role in academic performance, and the difference between busy and effective studying. Don't miss our insightful tips and heartfelt experiences designed to help you strategize and thrive during your most challenging academic week.00:00 Introduction to Edu Steps00:41 Meet the Hosts01:29 Be-Know-Do Methodology01:56 Mindset of a Finals Week Champion02:40 Importance of Sleep and Self-Compassion03:41 Personal Experiences with Finals Week13:34 Parental Influence on Academic Success20:08 Parental Influence on Student Success21:20 Challenges of Inconsistent Teaching Methods23:21 The Importance of Personalized Study Techniques30:56 Effective Study Strategies and Stress Management38:07 Final Tips for Academic SuccessDo you need help figuring things out as a student? College? Scholarships? Life purpose? Don't worry! We got you! Each episode of the LYS Podcast discusses all that and more! Connect with us to be updated with announcements, events, and all things LYS:Website - https://ladderingyoursuccess.com/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ladderingyoursuccess/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/ladderingyoursuccess/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/beknowdo_lys/Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@ladderingyoursuccess3177Email - info@ladderingyoursuccess.com#pocasts #edusteps #ladderingyoursuccess #student #finals #finalsweek

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    41 mins
  • Resolutions That Stick: Teen Goal-Setting | Edu Steps
    Dec 5 2025

    Welcome back to Edu of Steps, powered by Laddering Your Success, where we help you navigate life, learning, and leveling up. In this episode, host Olay, along with Dr. Jamarc Crawford and Festus Amoye, dive into the topic of New Year's resolutions that stick, especially for teens. They break down goal setting with the 'Be-Know-Do' method: who you need to be, what you need to know, and what you need to do to turn resolutions into meaningful changes.

    The episode provides real insights on setting SMART goals, creating effective plans, and finding support systems. If you're a teen looking to make this year's resolutions last, this episode is a must-watch!

    00:00 - Intro

    00:14 - The Reality of New Year's Resolutions

    02:14 - The Importance of Self-Compassion

    02:56 - Teens and the Pressure of Resolutions

    06:05 - Comparison vs. Purpose-Driven Goals

    14:05 - The Science Behind Effective Goal Setting

    16:32 - The Power of Implementation Intentions

    18:38 - Discussion on Implementation Intentions

    22:23 - SMART Goals for Teens

    26:03 - Executing Goals with Excellence

    26:12 - Steps to Achieve SMART Goals

    29:02 - Importance of Goal Buddies

    31:12 - Final Thoughts and Reflections

    40:06 - Conclusion and Call to Action

    Do you need help figuring things out as a student? College? Scholarships? Life purpose? Don't worry! We got you! Each episode of the LYS Podcast discusses all that and more! Connect with us to be updated with announcements, events, and all things LYS:

    Website - https://ladderingyoursuccess.com/

    Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ladderingyoursuccess/

    LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/ladderingyoursuccess/

    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/beknowdo_lys/

    Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@ladderingyoursuccess3177

    Email - info@ladderingyoursuccess.com

    #pocasts #edusteps #ladderingyoursuccess #student #goals #newyear

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    42 mins