Episodes

  • Flipping the Script on Targeted College Marketing

    Flipping the Script on Targeted College Marketing
    Dec 9 2025
    In this episode we discuss how universities reach prospective students. We explore the various channels colleges use to capture attention, from endless emails to glossy brochures in your mailbox and targeted social media ads following you around online. S2, E8
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    36 mins
  • Is The College Interview for Real?

    Is The College Interview for Real?
    Dec 2 2025
    In this episode, Tracy and Tara share their perspective on the interview. They also explore an important concept that applicants often overlook: every interaction with a college—from campus tours to email exchanges—is essentially a form of interview. If you're wondering whether to add one more thing to your college application to-do list, this episode will help you think differently about the process. S2, E7
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    20 mins
  • Bracing for Impact: What to Expect While Expecting After You Hit Send

    Bracing for Impact: What to Expect While Expecting After You Hit Send
    Nov 25 2025
    Hosts Tara and Tracy guide parents through the waiting period between submission and decision day, covering essential strategies like when and how to appropriately email admission officers, why it's important to keep exploring other colleges, and how to manage anxiety during this uncertain time. Most importantly, don't let the college process steal the joy from senior year! S2, E6
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    29 mins
  • Curating a College List

    Curating a College List
    Nov 18 2025
    In this episode, we guide parents through the process of helping their teen build a smart, balanced college list. Discover how to support your student in identifying schools that match their strengths, interests, and aspirations while keeping practical factors like cost, location, and outcomes in mind. We cover the difference between reach, target, and safety schools, red flags to watch for, and how to have productive conversations about college fit without adding pressure. Whether your student is just beginning their search or finalizing their list, you'll gain actionable strategies to be an effective partner in this important decision. S2, E5
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    29 mins
  • Navigating the Nest K-Success

    Navigating the Nest K-Success
    Nov 11 2025
    In this episode, we take a big-picture look at the entire journey from kindergarten through college admissions and beyond. S2, E4
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    37 mins
  • Reflections of 2025 Admissions Cycle

    Reflections of 2025 Admissions Cycle
    Nov 4 2025
    In this episode, we look back at the 2025-2026 college admissions cycle and unpack the trends, surprises, and lessons learned. We discuss what worked, what caught families off guard, and how the landscape continues to evolve, from acceptance rates and test-optional policies to majors and demonstrated interest. Learn what this year's results tell us about where admissions is headed and how future applicants can better prepare. We share real stories from families navigating the process, common mistakes to avoid, and silver linings that emerged even in disappointing outcomes. Whether your student is just starting their college journey or you're processing this year's results, this episode offers perspective, insight, and hope for the road ahead. S2, E3
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    35 mins
  • The College Fair

    The College Fair
    Oct 28 2025
    In this episode, we help you and your student approach college fairs with a game plan instead of feeling overwhelmed by rows of tables and stacks of brochures. We discuss how to prepare before you go, which colleges to prioritize at the fair, and what questions will actually give you valuable information beyond what's on the website. Learn how to make a memorable impression with admissions representatives, what to look for in your conversations, and how to follow up effectively afterward. We'll also cover the difference between large regional fairs and smaller school-hosted events, and whether virtual college fairs are worth your time. By the end of this episode, you'll know how to turn college fairs from exhausting information dumps into productive steps in your student's college search. S2, E2
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    31 mins
  • What Really Influences Your Child's College List

    What Really Influences Your Child's College List
    Oct 14 2025
    In this episode, we uncover the often-hidden factors that shape your student's college list, and help you separate helpful influences from harmful ones. We discuss how peer pressure, social media, prestige obsession, and even well-meaning relatives can steer your teen toward schools that aren't the right fit. Learn how to identify what should truly drive college selection: academic programs, campus culture, career outcomes, financial reality, and your student's individual needs and goals. We'll also explore how to have honest conversations about brand-name schools versus best-fit schools, and how to help your teen tune out the noise to focus on what actually matters for their success and happiness. This episode will empower you to build a college list based on substance, not status. S2, E1
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    36 mins