Best Juan Rivas Podcasts (2025)

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FIRST-GEN RAMS (4 of 4): Maria de Jesus, CSU Student 34:43

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15h ago34:43

34:43

In this special edition limited series, the Let's Talk TRIO podcast is proud to feature first-gen voices at Colorado State University. This episode was made possible in collaboration with Colorado State University's First-Generation Student Organization (FGSO) and the TRIO Programs. In this episode we feature Maria de Jesus, a student at Colorado S…

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FIRST-GEN RAMS (3 of 4): Janeth Gurrola, Student at Colorado State University 22:17

9h ago22:17

22:17

In this special edition limited series, the Let's Talk TRIO podcast is proud to feature first-gen voices at Colorado State University. This episode was made possible in collaboration with Colorado State University's First-Generation Student Organization (FGSO) and the TRIO Programs. In this episode we feature Janeth Gurrola, a student at Colorado S…

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FIRST-GEN RAMS (2 of 4): Odeth Tomas Sarat, Student at Colorado State University 30:38

1d ago30:38

30:38

In this special edition limited series, the Let's Talk TRIO podcast is proud to feature first-gen voices at Colorado State University. This episode was made possible in collaboration with Colorado State University's First-Generation Student Organization (FGSO) and the TRIO Programs. In this episode we feature Odeth Tomas Sarat, a student at Colorad…

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FIRST-GEN RAMS (1 of 4): Delilah Lopez, Graduate Student at CSU 24:40

2d ago24:40

24:40

In this special edition limited series, the Let's Talk TRIO podcast is proud to feature first-gen voices at Colorado State University. This episode was made possible in collaboration with Colorado State University's First-Generation Student Organization (FGSO) and the TRIO Programs. In this episode we feature Delilah Lopez, a graduate student at Co…

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Your Advocacy Game Plan with Jeff Kahlden, COE Board Chair 46:13

3d ago46:13

46:13

We are honored to welcome back Jeff Kahlden for his third appearance on the podcast! As a true leader in educational equity, Jeff brings a wealth of experience to the conversation. He currently serves as the Board Chair for the Council for Opportunity in Education (COE) and was recently honored as the recipient of the 2023 Walter O. Mason Award for…

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"Hopeful" - Dr. Estevan Parra-Guerrero - Director, TRIO Upward Bound (Fresno State) 1:38:44

11d ago1:38:44

1:38:44

Hi TRIO Nation! This week, we sit down with the incredible Dr. Estevan Parra-Guerrero, Director of the TRIO Upward Bound Programs at California State University, Fresno. Dr. Parra-Guerrero’s passion for educational opportunity is deeply personal. He opens up about his journey from South Central LA, where he was raised by formerly undocumented paren…

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A Collaboration with JCYC TRIO Programs: The Importance of Advocacy 45:46

25d ago45:46

45:46

The future of the TRIO programs requires our collective voice, and this episode is your official guide to making that voice heard. We are honored to be joined by Daphnis Schmidt and Emalyn Lapus from the JCYC TRIO programs for a crucial conversation about advocacy and collaboration. Our guests will provide vital updates on the current landscape for…

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Engineer in the House: Congresswoman Luz Rivas' Journey 36:34

29d ago36:34

36:34

In this special episode, SHPE CEO Suzanna Valdez Wolfe sits down with Congresswoman Luz Rivas, an MIT-trained electrical engineer, non-profit founder, and the only Latina in Congress with a STEM background for an in-depth conversation about her remarkable journey. They discuss her path from the San Fernando Valley to the halls of Congress, explorin…

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"Resilient" - Jackie Estrada Perez - TRIO McNair Participant (Univ. of Northern Colorado) 1:30:16

1M ago1:30:16

1:30:16

One last-minute decision can define an entire academic career. In this episode, we sit down with Jackie Estrada Perez, a University of Northern Colorado student who began her journey at Aims Community College. Jackie shares the story behind her pivotal choice to attend Aims and how the TRIO Student Support Services program there set her up for succ…

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The Ownership Paradox: From Tangible to Transitory 1:48:30

1M ago1:48:30

1:48:30

In an age of digital licenses and locked-down hardware, what does it truly mean to own something? This week, the team tackles the eroding concept of ownership from three different angles, questioning who really holds the power: the consumer or the corporation. First, Orrin kicks things off with a deep dive into the Right to Repair movement. From fa…

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Reps, Reels, and a Reboot 1:43:29

2M ago1:43:29

1:43:29

We're back! After a long hiatus, The Fifth Dimension returns with a huge update. You loved him as a guest last season, so we made it official—Orrin is now a permanent co-host! In his first episode as part of the core crew, Orrin dives deep with us into forging unstoppable habits in health and fitness, sharing his secrets to staying consistent even …

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Finding Your Familia: Juan Yarala on the Power of Community and Giving Back 37:40

3M ago37:40

37:40

In this episode, we sit down with Juan Yarala, a freshman electrical engineering student who shares his inspiring journey from Bogotá, Colombia, to the University of Florida. Juan opens up about the hurdles he faced due to his immigration status and the moment he feared his dream of higher education might be out of reach. He explains how finding hi…

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"Blessed" - Latoya Chambers - TRIO Alumna and Staff (Cincinnati State) 58:56

3M ago58:56

58:56

Hello TRIO Nation! This week on Let’s Talk TRIO, we're excited to feature a guest who embodies the very mission of TRIO programs: Cincinnati's own Latoya Chambers. A dedicated educator, servant leader, and proud two-time TRIO alumna, Latoya didn't just walk the path to success—she's now paving it for others. She has returned to her roots, now servi…

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"Unabashed" - Reinalyn Echon - Advisor for TRIO SSS (ISU) 2:44:06

3M ago2:44:06

2:44:06

What do video games, LEGOs, and student success have in common? More than you think. In this episode, we sit down with Reinalyn Echon, an advisor for Idaho State University's TRIO Student Support Services. As a first-generation student herself, Reinalyn shares her incredible journey - from finding her voice as a college radio DJ to making the pivot…

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"Resilient" - Erickson Aquino - TRIO Alum & Staff 1:39:08

3M ago1:39:08

1:39:08

Join us for a special episode as we welcome our first guest ever from Guam, Erickson Aquino! Erickson's story is one of inspiration and dedication. As a middle school and high school student, he was a participant in the TRIO Educational Talent Search program. Now, having graduated from the University of Guam, he serves as the project coordinator fo…

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"Advocate" - Tyler Loven - TRIO Alum of Metropolitan State University in Denver 55:58

3M ago55:58

55:58

This week, we're honored to host a familiar voice, Tyler Loven, a Metropolitan State University of Denver alumnus whose academic journey is anything but ordinary. Tyler takes us through his decision to transfer from Colorado State University during the unprecedented times of the COVID-19 pandemic. We explore his significant involvement with the TRI…

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Breaking Barriers: Genevieve Gandara on Caltech, Stanford, and Advocating in STEM 42:38

4M ago42:38

42:38

In this episode of SHPE Out Loud, Genevieve Gandara, a mechanical engineering student at Caltech soon heading to Stanford, shares her inspiring journey in STEM. From robotics teams in her school years to navigating the rigorous academics at Caltech, Genevieve opens up about the importance of community, resilience, and advocacy. She discusses confro…

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Redefining the Plan: Angelica Gonzales on Switching Majors and Staying Focused 34:36

4M ago34:36

34:36

In this episode of SHPE Out Loud, we meet Angelica Gonzales, a SHPE Scholar and mechanical engineering student at Ventura College. Angelica shares how she’s balancing her studies, leadership roles, and work while preparing to transfer to a four-year university. As a first-generation college student, she talks about what drives her, the support she’…

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"Persistent" - Chelsey Toms - TRIO Alumna & Academic Advisor for TRIO Upward Bound 1:17:12

4M ago1:17:12

1:17:12

This week, we're excited to welcome Chelsey Toms, a proud alumna of both the TRIO Educational Talent Search and Student Support Services programs. Chelsey's story is an inspiring example of dedication and leadership within the TRIO community. Join us as Chelsey shares her incredible journey, from her time as a TRIO participant to her current role a…

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"Anxiety-Motivated" - Dr. James Pascali - Director, TRIO McNair Scholars Program 1:29:17

4M ago1:29:17

1:29:17

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Dr. James Pascali, a testament to the power of perseverance and non-traditional paths. Dr. Pascali, the current Director of the TRIO McNair Scholars Program, shares his incredible journey: from dropping out of high school and earning his GED, to serving in the military, and ultimately achieving a bachelor'…

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"Fun" - Xavier Travon Lewis - TRIO Upward Bound Alum 1:21:41

5M ago1:21:41

1:21:41

This week, we're excited to feature Xavier Travon Lewis, an inspiring alumnus of the TRIO Upward Bound program at Eastern New Mexico University. Xavier's story is a shining example of finding the right fit and taking bold steps toward your goals. Join us as Xavier shares his unique journey, from his time in TRIO Upward Bound to graduating from New …

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"Connected" - Erik Austin - Director, TRIO Student Support Services 1:40:13

5M ago1:40:13

1:40:13

Join us as we sit down with Erik Austin, a remarkable first-generation college graduate and the dedicated Director of TRIO Student Support Services at Westminster College (PA). Erik shares his compelling journey, revealing how an initial ambition to pursue law evolved into a profound passion for empowering students through the TRIO programs. Discov…

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"Grit" - Michael Cashman - TRIO Student Support Services Alum 1:07:12

5M ago1:07:12

1:07:12

This week, we're honored to feature Michael Cashman, an inspiring alumnus of the TRIO Student Support Services program at SUNY Plattsburgh. Michael's story is one of incredible resilience and achievement. Join us as we talk with Michael about his journey, from overcoming dyslexia to becoming the youngest elected Town Supervisor for Plattsburgh. You…

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Learning to Let Go: Abby Bravo on Finding Her Own Path 43:42

5M ago43:42

43:42

In this episode of SHPE Out Loud, we sit down with Abby Bravo, a SHPE Scholar who shares her journey of learning to let go of perfection and finding her own path in STEM. From feeling the pressure to always be “the perfect student” to figuring out her place at the University of Houston, Abby opens up about her mentors, family, and the moments that …

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"Stubborn" - Julia Kochanowski - TRIO McNair Alumna 1:36:34

5M ago1:36:34

1:36:34

This week on the podcast, we sit down with Julia Kochanowski, a remarkable alumna of the University of North Dakota's TRIO McNair Scholars program. Julia's story is one of determination and self-discovery, as she shares how her involvement with TRIO McNair profoundly shaped her unique path to success and led her to a career she's truly passionate a…

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"Curious" - Dr. Christabelle Dragoo - TRIO Alum & Staff 1:58:22

6M ago1:58:22

1:58:22

This week's episode of Let's Talk TRIO shines a light on the inspiring journey of Dr. Christabelle Dragoo! A TRIO alumna with a fascinating background, Dr. Dragoo shares her unique experience as a non-traditional student. Get ready to hear how she transitioned from hairstylist to accomplished researcher and the resilience it took to earn her PhD. T…

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"Amazing" - Evelin Castañeda - TRIO Alum 1:43:15

6M ago1:43:15

1:43:15

How can TRIO truly shape a student's future? This week on Let's Talk TRIO, we speak with Evelin Castañeda, a shining example of TRIO's impact. As a proud Alum and now Project Coordinator for the Chicano Latino Youth Leadership Project, Inc., Evelin shares her personal journey, from participating in TRIO to becoming a dedicated staff member and now …

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"Perplexed/Optimistic" - Khadijah Dee - TRIO Alum 1:18:39

6M ago1:18:39

1:18:39

In this inspiring episode of Let's Talk TRIO, we're thrilled to welcome Khadijah Dee, a shining TRIO alumna who has soared to become an Instructional Design Project Manager at eDesign Consulting. Tune in as Khadijah Dee shares her transformative educational journey with TRIO, revealing the path that led her to a successful career. But that's not al…

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Changing Paths: Matteo Lopez on Aviation, Economics, and Embracing the Pivot 25:15

6M ago25:15

25:15

In this episode of SHPE Out Loud, we meet Matteo Lopez, a senior at Santa Clara University who shares his journey from a passion for aviation and mechanical engineering to discovering economics as his true calling. Matteo opens up about his experience growing up near San Francisco, adjusting to college life, and overcoming imposter syndrome. He ref…

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"Offbeat" - Joseph "Joe" Madrid - TRIO Upward Bound Alum 1:08:14

6M ago1:08:14

1:08:14

What does it mean to give back? This week on Let's Talk TRIO, we sit down with Joseph “Joe” Madrid, a TRIO Upward Bound success story now working as the Academic Services Coordinator at Clovis Community College. Joe takes us through his inspiring journey: from his own college aspirations to his current role empowering future TRIO students. Tune in …

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Finding Your Way: Sebastian Guevara on Imposter Syndrome, and College Life 41:54

7M ago41:54

41:54

In this episode of SHPE Out Loud, we hear from Sebastian Guevara, a SHPE Scholar studying at Carnegie Mellon University. Sebastian shares his experiences growing up in Houston, and navigating college life as a first-generation student. He opens up about facing imposter syndrome, the decision to switch majors, and the importance of learning to ask f…

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Legacy in Motion: Melissa Villegas Drake on SHPE, STEM, and Staying the Course 29:29

7M ago29:29

29:29

In this episode of SHPE Out Loud, we sit down with Melissa Villegas Drake, a SHPE lifetime member whose journey with the organization began in the 80s. From her early days as a student leader to her time on the National Board, Melissa has helped shape SHPE into the powerful network it is today. She reflects on overcoming self-doubt, leading with pu…

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Parenthood, Family, & Scholarships with Juan C. Diaz 53:22

7M ago53:22

53:22

In this inspiring episode of SHPE Out Loud, scholarship recipient Juan Diaz opens up about his unique journey from leaving high school at sixteen to support his newborn son, to returning years later and pursuing his dream of becoming a mechanical engineer. Juan talks about the challenges he faced, the mentors who guided him, and the unwavering moti…

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"Ambitious" - Christina Sebastian - TRIO Student Support Services (Dallas College) 52:55

8M ago52:55

52:55

Let's talk about real college life! We're chatting with an incredible student from Dallas College who's juggling academics, leadership, and everything in between. Christina Sebastian joins the Let’s Talk TRIO podcast to share her experience as a student and participant. Listen in as Christina shares about her involvement with TRIO Student Support S…

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“Dedicated” - Paulia D. Williams - TRIO Staff 1:08:36

8M ago1:08:36

1:08:36

Ever wondered what drives someone to dedicate their career to empowering first-generation college students? This episode answers that question with Paulia D. Williams, the award-winning Gamecock Guarantee Coordinator at USC. Discover the personal story behind her passion for TRIO, and find out what it means to be recognized as the 2024 Dennis A. Pr…

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"Curious" - Jamie McDowell - TRIO Alum 1:08:48

9M ago1:08:48

1:08:48

This week's guest is Jamie McDowell! A graduate student at Colorado State University studying Student Affairs in Higher Education, Jamie is also a proud first-generation graduate and TRIO alum of the ACE program. She's a Provost Fellowship research recipient, Spirit of ACE award winner, and undergraduate woman leader nominee. Tune in to hear Jamie'…

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SPECIAL FEATURE: NOSOTROS Education Center - Lisa Retamozo 1:20:36

9M ago1:20:36

1:20:36

This is a paid partnership episode by our sponsor, NOSOTROS Education Center. While the episode showcases our sponsor's services, we believe that the episode also contains valuable information relevant to the TRIO community (free webinars, resources, and more). Lisa Retamozo, Director and Founder, is on the podcast to share upcoming workshops on: T…

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"Focused, Persistent, and Relentless" - The TRIO Upward Bound Staff at the University of Montana 2:39:44

9M ago2:39:44

2:39:44

Changing lives, one student at a time. Meet the dedicated TRIO Upward Bound team at the University of Montana-Missoula on this episode of Let's Talk TRIO. Xavier Xtravaganza, Jonathan Carter, and Dannette Fadness reveal what drives them to support students on their path to higher education and share inspiring stories from the front lines. Community…

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Hey Friend! Catching Up with Daniela Garcia - TRIO Alum 58:55

9M ago58:55

58:55

What happens when a TRIO student becomes a TRIO leader? Find out on this episode of Let's Talk TRIO! We catch up with Daniela Garcia, now Director of Upward Bound at Eastern New Mexico University-Roswell, to hear how TRIO impacted her life and how she's now paying it forward. It's a story of transformation you won't want to miss. A heartfelt thanks…

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Opinion Piece on the Attempt to Freeze Federal Programs by Juan Rivas 6:53

9M ago6:53

6:53

Juan's opinion on the attempt to freeze the budgets of many federal programs which could have potential affects on TRIO. This move by the Trump Administration was blocked by a federal judge and, ultimately, the administration rescinded the memo. To support the work and mission of TRIO, make a donation to the Council for Opportunity in Education (CO…

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Movies, Books, Politics, and Reflection! 1:37:47

9M ago1:37:47

1:37:47

In this SEASON FINALE of The Fifth Dimension Podcast, our co-hosts discuss movies they are looking forward to seeing this year, books they have read, insight into politics, and they offer up some reflection as we look ahead to 2025. This episode features responses from our listeners who have engaged on our polls and questions over on our social med…

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“A Mariposa Abroad” - Nelsy Montes-Romero - TRIO Student Support Services 1:16:29

10M ago1:16:29

1:16:29

SEASON 6 FINALE! Hear from Nelsy Montes-Romero, a current TRIO Student Support Services participant at California State University-Monterey Bay. Nelsy joins us to share her inspiring journey, including her academic progress, exciting personal experiences, and how TRIO is supporting her on her path to success. A heartfelt thanks to our individual su…

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50 Stories for 50 Years | Story #50 (Part 2): Will Davis – SHPE Leadership and the Road Ahead 48:05

10M ago48:05

48:05

Episode Description: In the second and final installment of our two-part finale, we continue our conversation with Will Davis, Board Chair of SHPE, to explore his leadership roles within the organization and his reactions to the inspiring journeys shared throughout our “50 Stories for 50 Years” series. Will reflects on how these personal accounts h…

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"Resilient" - Michael Dillard - TRIO Upward Bound Alum 1:25:12

10M ago1:25:12

1:25:12

From Poverty to the World Stage: Michael Dillard, a TRIO Upward Bound alum, shares his incredible journey. This 'accidental' diplomat, author of "Accidental Success," reveals how education transformed his life. Learn how TRIO Upward Bound helped him navigate college, discover his passion for finance, and ultimately, find his voice on the global sta…

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50 Stories for 50 Years | Story #50 (Part 1): Will Davis – From Childhood Creativity to NASA Engineer 54:07

10M ago54:07

54:07

In the first installment of our two-part finale for the “50 Stories for 50 Years” series, we introduce Will Davis, SHPE’s Board Chair and a dedicated champion of Latino excellence in STEM. In this episode, Will reveals how a childhood filled with tinkering and creativity ignited his passion for engineering—ultimately leading him to a remarkable car…

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"Resilient" - Dr. Renee Delgado-Riley - TRIO McNair Alum from the University of New Mexico 2:08:06

10M ago2:08:06

2:08:06

In this episode: Dr. Renee Delgado-Riley, TRIO McNair Alum from the University of New Mexico and Director of Research and Assessment within the Office of Student Life at the University of Oregon. Dr. Delgado-Riley is on the podcast to share her TRIO journey, being an alum of the TRIO McNair program, her interest in research, and so much more. A hea…

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50 Stories for 50 Years | Story #49: Suzanna Valdez Wolfe – Leading SHPE into Tomorrow 52:41

10M ago52:41

52:41

In the 49th episode of our “50 Stories for 50 Years” series, we feature Suzanna Valdez Wolfe, a dedicated leader and the CEO of SHPE. Born and raised in El Paso, Texas, Suzanna’s passion for serving her community has guided her journey—from her formative years on the U.S.-Mexico border to shaping public policy in Washington, DC, and now spearheadin…

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"Outgoing" - Cove Johnson - TRIO Upward Bound Participant at the University of North Dakota 52:46

10M ago52:46

52:46

In this episode: Cove Johnson, TRIO Upward Bound participant and TRIO Talent Search alum from the University of North Dakota. Cove is on the podcast to share her TRIO journey, interests in high school, potential career paths, and so much more. A heartfelt thank you to our individual supporters: Dr. Jamie Motley Dr. Ryan Barone Dr. Jeff Nepute Angel…

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The Holiday Episode! 1:25:30

11M ago1:25:30

1:25:30

After recovering from their post-election hangover, Kurt and Juan return to discuss...what else? MOVIES! Listen as Kurt and Juan discuss movies that use the Holidays as part of their setting. Should you consider it a Holiday movie? Listen as both co-hosts make the case for their favorite movies. Other topics include Thanksgiving recap, looking ahea…

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"Inspired" - Dr. Lydia Perez - Director of TRIO Programs 1:35:15

11M ago1:35:15

1:35:15

In this episode: Dr. Lydia Perez, Director of TRIO Programs at Mesa Community College and TRIO Alum. Dr. Perez is on the podcast to share her TRIO journey, her path to college (which started with attending a football game!), pursuing a doctoral degree, and receiving the Walter O. Mason Jr. Award for Exceptional Contributions to Educational Opportun…