The Way to College Podcast

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 others

The difference between support, resources… and permission

A practical way to take your next step even when you’re unsure

Jillian 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 life

What to avoid with “easy” scholarships and inbox-filling traps

How to build reusable materials (essays, stories, lists) so you’re not starting from scratch every time

The 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/waytocollege
If 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.
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