Best Nacac Podcasts (2025)

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Candace Boeninger: Holding Power with Purpose 45:29

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5h ago45:29

45:29

Candace Boeninger, Vice President for Enrollment Management at Ohio University, joins the ALP to share lessons from her journey into senior leadership, reflecting on her experience working with an executive coach and how it helped her navigate the transition to cabinet-level leadership, as well as her evolving understanding of power—and the respons…

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ACT and SAT Must-Knows for High Schoolers with Test Innovators 30:10

3h ago30:10

30:10

In this episode, we chat with Celena from Test Innovators, our test prep partner! If you’re feeling overwhelmed or confused about standardized testing, you’re in the right place. In this episode for students and parents/guardians, we cover: What you need to know about test-optional Determining how many times to take the tests (and if you should tak…

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Rakin "Rock" Hall: From the Standup Stage to the Enrollment Stage 47:20

12d ago47:20

47:20

Rakin “Rock” Hall, Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Success at Ithaca College, brings a unique mix of reflection, humor, and leadership to The Admissions Leadership Podcast. In this wide-ranging conversation, Rock shares his take on the promise and perils of AI in higher education, why he's been creating short-form video reflect…

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Chantal & Julie: A Scoir Success Story! 34:35

20d ago34:35

34:35

In this episode, we're joined by former Title I Counselor, Julie (aka Ms. K), and her former student, Chantal, as they fill us in on Chantal's incredible journey from student to Scoir team member! Follow us on Instagram! Learn more about ScoirBy Scoir, Inc.

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Phil Moreno: Finding Stillness in Motion 55:55

27d ago55:55

55:55

Phil Moreno—Associate Director of College Counseling at the Nueva School and Board Chair for the National Association for College Admission Counseling—joins this episode of The ALP to talk about what it means to lead leaders in challenging times, why gratitude and handwritten notes matter, and how he’s learned to “stay on the bike” while also carvi…

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Thyra Briggs: Baseball, Cover Letters, Grace and Transparency 52:18

1M ago52:18

52:18

From a childhood “baseball club” in Boston to becoming a Dean of Admission at just 27, Thyra Briggs, Vice President for Admission and Financial Aid at Harvey Mudd College, has built a career defined by curiosity, courage, and care. In this episode, Thyra reflects on the role of baseball in her story—including a thoughtful gift from Ray Brown and wh…

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Jeremy Lowe: The Power of Punk Rock, Long Walks and Under-reacting 53:46

1M ago53:46

53:46

Jeremy Lowe, Assistant Vice Provost for Undergraduate Admission at American University, has built his leadership style on lessons from three seemingly different places: the punk rock stage, long walks through D.C., and intentional pauses in the face of challenges. In this conversation, Jeremy shares how getting heckled and booed by 1,500 fans taugh…

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Justin Rummel: From Policy to Purpose in Enrollment Leadership 53:12

2M ago53:12

53:12

In this episode of The Admissions Leadership Podcast, Justin Rummel, Vice President for Enrollment at Susquehanna University, shares how his journey to the VP seat followed anything but the traditional path. With no background in admissions, Justin’s career has spanned state politics, federal financial aid policy, compliance and internal audit in b…

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Lisa Keegan: Leading with Purpose in a Time of Transition 49:29

2M ago49:29

49:29

Lisa Keegan returns to the mic just as she prepares to step into her new role as the inaugural Vice Provost for Enrollment Strategy at William & Mary. With signature candor, humor, and heart, Lisa reflects on her five-year tenure at Bucknell University, where she helped build and elevate a leadership bench that is now stepping into her shoes. We ex…

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How to Have a Productive (and Fun!) Summer 15:45

3M ago15:45

15:45

Summer is for relaxing and recharging, but it’s also a great opportunity to set yourself up for success! In this episode, former college counselor and former dean of admission share their pro-tips for college-bound high schoolers on how to make the most of summer break. From working and volunteering, to exploring and getting creative, we've got you…

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Setting Your College-Bound Student Up for Success in 2025 33:06

4M ago33:06

33:06

In this episode of College Admissions Decoded, we’re focusing on one of the most important, but often overlooked, parts of the college journey: the transition from high school to higher education. Getting into college is just the beginning. Helping students find their footing, their people, and their purpose once they reach campus is key to their s…

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Campus Visits: What to Look for on Your Tour 21:00

4M ago21:00

21:00

Thinking about visiting colleges this summer or fall? In this podcast episode, we’re breaking down the importance of campus visits, what to look for on the tour, and more! Follow us on Instagram! Learn more about ScoirBy Scoir, Inc.

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[For Counselors & Teachers] Tips for Writing Letters of Recommendation 25:50

5M ago25:50

25:50

We shared an episode for students about requesting letters of recommendation, now we're sharing our pro tips for counselors and teachers as they write letters of recommendation on behalf of their students! In this episode, you'll hear from Julie Kampschroeder, a former college counselor with 31+ years of experience, and Peter Van Buskirk, a former …

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[For Students] How to Ask for a Letter of Recommendation 29:30

5M ago29:30

29:30

Wondering how to ask for a letter of recommendation — and actually get a strong one? In this episode, we break down everything students need to know about recommendation letters: when to ask, how to ask, and what to share with your teacher or counselor to help them write a compelling letter. 🎙️ Our guests, Julie Kampschroeder (former college counse…

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Higher Education Advocacy in Uncertain Times: Navigating Policy Changes in College Admission 33:16

6M ago33:16

33:16

NACAC's David Hawkins and Sean Robins discuss the administration's changes to education policy, including efforts to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education and anti-DEI initiatives, and how these policies impact students, institutions, and the college admission landscape. They also share opportunities and strategies for advocacy. (Recorded on M…

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Course Selection: Strategies for Choosing your High School Courses 14:19

6M ago14:19

14:19

In this episode, Peter Van Buskirk, Strategic Advisor for Scoir and former Dean of Admission, shares pro tips for selecting your high school courses. We dive into what colleges are looking for and how to plan your classes strategically throughout your years in high school. Follow us on Instagram! Learn more about Scoir…

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Celebrating School Counselors 47:57

8M ago47:57

47:57

In honor of National School Counseling Week, we are shining a spotlight on the work of school counselors and the vital role they play in students’ lives. Every day, school counselors make a lasting impact by offering academic advising, providing college counseling, supporting the well-being of their students, and much more. Host Eddie Pickett is jo…

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AI in College Admission: How is artificial intelligence impacting students and professionals? 47:02

8M ago47:02

47:02

In this episode of College Admissions Decoded, host Eddie Pickett is joined by NACAC members Emily Pacheco and Sebastian Brown to explore the impact of AI in higher education: from students using AI tools for essays and test prep, to admission offices using AI for student outreach and data analysis. Our guests provide insights on the opportunities …

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Peak Perspectives: Assumptions and Decisions 9:30

9M ago9:30

9:30

Have you ever caught yourself making an assumption about someone's capacity for success based on where they come from or the challenges they've faced? At this time of year, when many admissions offices are deep in application review, it seems fitting to pause and reflect on how assumptions can shape decisions. In this Peak Perspective, we hear a vi…

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Episode 60: Don't Cut the School Counselors 2:01

9M ago2:01

2:01

“Don’t Cut the School Counselors” Song Produced by: Shammy Dee and Ruben Escobar Vocals: Shammy Dee A few laws conducted by school counselors: AB 469 - state mandate for financial aid; provide financial aid information to 11th graders; monitor lists and reports for 12th grader financial aid completion rates - all 12th graders must submit a financia…

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Peak Perspectives: A Purposeful No 8:48

9M ago8:48

8:48

Have you ever paused to consider the path you were on? Maybe that reflection led to affirmation, a definitive “Yes, this is the right direction.” Then again, maybe you sensed a quiet voice asking the question, “Are you sure this is the right direction?” In this Peak Perspective, we hear a story from Thom Golden, founder and CEO of Golden Educationa…

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Peak Perspectives: Living with the Imposter 6:46

10M ago6:46

6:46

Have you ever faced an opportunity that made you question your readiness, your abilities—even your worth? In this Peak Perspective, I share a story from Marie Bigham, founder of ACCEPT and IQID, who wrestled with self-doubt when she was invited to make a leap. What gave her the confidence to jump? (Original audio clip from Season 1, Episode 4 of th…

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Bridging Generations: Navigating Workplace Dynamics in Higher Education 39:54

10M ago39:54

39:54

In this episode of College Admissions Decoded, host Eddie Pickett and NACAC members Kimberly Rutland West and Brooklyn Duong unpack how Baby Boomers, Gen Xers, Millennials, and Gen Zers approach work, communication, and collaboration. We dive into the historical events and cultural shifts that have shaped each generation, explore strategies for fos…

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Peak Perspectives: Embrace the Unexpected 3:57

10M ago3:57

3:57

Have you ever made a decision so unexpected that it completely changed the course of your life? Welcome to Peak Perspectives, a short-form spinoff of the ALP, where I share insights and stories from my new book, Climbing the Admissions Leadership Peak. Chapter 10, "Embrace the Unexpected," shares the stories of six admissions leaders who did just t…

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Why Counselors Give Us Hugs at NACAC [Event Replay] 1:08:29

11M ago1:08:29

1:08:29

In this webinar-turned-podcast, hear the experts talk about how Scoir's foundational work with high school counselors benefits the work of colleges, too. Liz McGonigle, Managed Subscriptions Engagement Strategist at Scoir, Chris White from High Tech High, and Sebastian Brown from the University of Oregon share how Visits, Matches, and Parent/Guardi…

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The Power of Advocacy: How School Counselors Can Drive Change in Education 41:39

11M ago41:39

41:39

In this episode of College Admissions Decoded, host Eddie Pickett sits down with three NACAC members—Priscilla Grijalva, Candice Mackey, and Stephanie Brazinsky—to explore the critical role of advocacy in education. They discuss how counselors can use data-driven strategies to make their impact visible, build meaningful collaborations with administ…

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Pro Tips for Effective Writing and Communication 40:28

11M ago40:28

40:28

In this episode, Chief Growth Officer at Scoir, Ashley Smith, and former Dean of Admission, Peter Van Buskirk chat all things effective communication! Whether you're a college-bound student writing your college essay or heading into the workforce and want to sharpen your skills, we're sharing our tips for breaking out of the 5 paragraph essay and s…

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Season 10 Premiere 19:56

1y ago19:56

19:56

Season 10 kicks off with exciting news and an audible sneak preview. (And that, dear listener, is what folks in the business call a teaser.) The ALP is supported by RHB, a division of SIG. Music arranged by Ryan AnselmentBy Ken Anselment

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What Students Really Want to Hear from Colleges 1:00:26

1y ago1:00:26

1:00:26

Join Ciara and Erika, Senior Engagement Strategists at Scoir and college admissions marketing professionals, plus Abby deSilva, Inbound Marketing Strategist at Scoir and member of Gen Z, as they share strategies to authentically connect with Gen Z and thrive through today’s admissions challenges. They evaluate what students think about college admi…

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A Temperature Check on Admissions: Summer 2024 37:53

1y ago37:53

37:53

Our Chief Growth Officer, Ashley Smith, is joined by Peter Van Buskirk as he shares a recap of key takeaways and hot topics from this year's No Name Conference sessions. Take a listen as we discuss the FAFSA delays, how students can cope with the "achievement culture", and more. Follow us on Instagram! Learn more about Scoir…

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Episode 59: Ep. 59 The Last Episode 48:31

1+ y ago48:31

48:31

Priscilla Grijalva and Dan Reyes reminisce about their favorite memories and share a few updates. We have a special guest audio from, Merone Hailemeskel, Digital and Communications for President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama. Audio Edits: Dan Reyes; "Reaching Higher" Song Lyrics and Music by Jessica and Jackie Parry, Vocals by Emily Patterson (20…

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Navigating College Choices: Counselor Tips for Student and Parent/Guardian Harmony 43:51

1+ y ago43:51

43:51

In this episode, host Kaila Brown, former high school counselor, and guest Aaron Fulk, Director of College Counseling at the University School of Nashville, offer insightful strategies for counselors in supporting students and families through the college decision-making process. They emphasize the importance of asking the right questions to encour…

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The Admissions Directors Lunchcast Meets The ALP 54:52

1+ y ago54:52

54:52

Nathan Ament and Teege Mettille are the creators and co-hosts of the hit podcast, The Admissions Directors Lunchcast. They share different versions of their podcast's origin while somehow enticing Ken to share how the ALP came to be. Also, there's a teaser hidden in the Rapid Descent that you might catch if you listen carefully. Special shout-out t…

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Michael Keaton 53:40

1+ y ago53:40

53:40

(No, the other one.) What happens when two avowed GenXers record a podcast episode? From the host you get a bad reference to C+C Music Factory; from the guest you get helpful lessons on "how to vice president." Michael Keaton, VP for Enrollment Management at Ursinus College, sets the record straight on who was Michael Keaton first, how to leave thi…

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Empowering Perspectives: Women Leaders in College Admission Counseling 28:46

1+ y ago28:46

28:46

In this episode, NACAC Board Director Tahirah Jordan Crawford leads an engaging discussion with two accomplished women leaders in the world of college admission counseling, covering topics such as finding joy in the work, leadership, work-life balance, and overcoming challenges. Gain valuable insights into the experiences and perspectives of women …

1
Carin Smith 51:01

1+ y ago51:01

51:01

Carin Smith, domestic recruitment manager and Chicago regional representative for Beloit College (and a former member of Ken's team at Lawrence who helped him learn how to be an admissions director through a creative partnership she arranged), talks about how to lead without title, and the four reasons why this has been a deliberate choice she has …

1
Jeff Blahnik 49:41

1+ y ago49:41

49:41

From the time he was a little boy, Jeff Blahnik always wanted to be "an attorney," but a moment of crisis halfway through law school changed his path. He's now the Vice President of Enrollment Management at the University of Oklahoma, and shares the secret of winning the job interview at OU, how "inspired hospitality" makes a flagship feel intimate…

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Angela Frazier 55:32

1+ y ago55:32

55:32

Angela Frazier, Vice President of Student Services at Waukesha County Technical College (the ALP's first guest two-year college enrollment leader and the first African-American leader in WCTC's 100-year history) shines a light on what people get wrong about two-year colleges; how WCTC has punched above its weight with recruitment and retention; and…

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Justin Draeger 46:02

1+ y ago46:02

46:02

Justin Draeger, President and CEO of the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators, joins the ALP to share what colleagues in admissions, enrollment, student success, presidents' offices, etc. can do to support their financial aid colleagues, who are about to do 6 to 9 months of work in about 4 to 6 weeks. A deep thinker, reader,…

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Uniquely Powerful: Insights Into the Women’s College Experience 33:28

1+ y ago33:28

33:28

Women's colleges offer transformative experiences for students that are more important than ever. These institutions provide access to inclusive campus communities and academic excellence with a focus on developing women leaders. In this episode, we will counter common myths, highlight unique opportunities from STEM programs to powerful professiona…

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Navigating Higher Education Budgeting Amid the Changing Admissions Landscape 37:08

1+ y ago37:08

37:08

By 2027, the number of names nationally available for search will drop by 38%, according to Forbes. A shifting public perception of college and post-high school plans along with a drop in the young adult population has shrunk the pool of college applicants. With these enrollment and search cliffs, colleges are faced with the challenge (and opportun…

1
The True Benefits of Studying Abroad 33:46

1+ y ago33:46

33:46

Studying abroad is so much more than enrolling in college courses in a different country—the experience can fundamentally change the course of your future. But who is this experience for, and what is the return on investment? In this informative discussion, leading experts break down everything students and parents need to know about studying abroa…