Dreaming Big with Motivational Speaker Jonathan Medina - The Way to College Podcast Ep. 202
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. #podcast #latino #dreambig #jonathanmedina #georgetown #gearupworks
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Building Coalitions and Cultivating Hope on The Way to College Podcast - Ep 201
In Part II of my conversation with Dr. Cristóbal Rodríguez, Associate Vice Provost for Equity-Centered Initiatives at Arizona State University, we explore the politics shaping education today—and the urgent need to build coalitions across communities.Dr. Rodríguez discusses the threats facing public education, the role of systemic inequality, and how division undermines opportunity for all students. But amid the challenges, he reminds us that hope endures—in the stories of students, families, and educators who continue to plant seeds for a better future.Join us as we reflect on what it means to educate, to lead, and to believe in the collective power of communities working together for change.🎙️ Listen now and share this episode with someone who believes education should remain a public good for all.
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Creating Opportunities for Historically Underserved Communities: The Way to College Podcast with Dr. Cristobal Rodriguez
In this episode of The Way to College Podcast, Dr. Jose Saldivar sits down with Dr. Cristóbal Rodríguez, a leading voice in education policy and equity. From growing up in El Paso to earning a congressional scholarship that took him to Germany at age 16, Dr. Rodríguez shares the pivotal moments that shaped his journey. He reflects on working with migrant and tribal communities, serving on the White House Commission on Educational Excellence, and why affirming students’ cultural and familial assets is critical to building opportunity.This is a conversation about purpose, resilience, and the ongoing fight for educational access.🎙 Listen now and be inspired by Dr. Rodríguez’s story of service, community, and leadership.
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Redefining the College Tour with Quadzio on The Way to College Podcast
This week on The Way to College Podcast, Dr. Jose Saldivar speaks with brothers Jack and Evan Goldstein about their unique journeys and their mission to transform the college search experience for students.Jack Goldstein is a freshman at the University of Pennsylvania, studying political science and exploring opportunities in law and politics.Evan Goldstein is a high school sophomore at Jesuit High School in Portland, Oregon, navigating extracurriculars, mock trial, and his first steps toward college.Together, they co-founded Quadzio, a platform that connects high school students directly with college ambassadors across more than 110 campuses. Their goal? To give students an authentic look into campus life—beyond brochures and scripted tours.🎓 In this episode:How mock trial and internships shaped Jack’s academic pathEvan’s perspective on preparing for the college journeyWhy traditional college tours often fall shortThe story behind Quadzio and its fast-growing network of ambassadorsWhether you’re a student, parent, or educator, this conversation underscores the importance of authentic voices in helping students make one of life’s most significant decisions.
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Getting Curious with Ben Yzaguirre - Ep. 198 The Way to College Podcast
What does it mean to follow curiosity through every stage of life?This week, Dr. Jose Saldivar sits down with Ben Yzaguirre, Vice President of Education & Conferences at the School Nutrition Association. From a childhood spent exploring his home in rural Maryland to teaching high school history, to designing curriculum, and ultimately finding his place in the world of associations, Ben’s story highlights the importance of staying true to yourself while embracing change.In this episode, Ben shares:How boredom sparked a lifelong curiosityWhy small colleges can be the right fit for introvertsLessons learned from leaving the classroomOvercoming imposter syndrome when working with world-class expertsThe role of associations in professional and personal growth✨ Quote to remember: “Be bored, and then be curious.”Tune in for a thoughtful conversation on education, career pivots, and building a fulfilling professional journey.
The Way to College Podcast examines the multiple roads we take to get to college and beyond. Guests share their individual stories of success, failure, and what they did to push forward to find success.
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