Free-ish in Higher Education

In this episode I sit down with Michael Richardson, Director of Worker and Student Voice at the National Skills Coalition (NSC), to talk about how policy can truly reflect the people it is meant to serve. Michael shares how NSC is working to build education and workforce systems that are more inclusive, more equitable, and better designed for students balancing school, work, and life. As the leade...

In this episode, I sit down with Elias Ramirez, a first-generation Mexican-American and proud Galveston County native whose story is nothing short of inspiring. From graduating with a degree in Public Service Leadership to leading food access programs at the Galveston County Food Bank, Elias has dedicated his life to fighting hunger, uplifting youth, and building stronger communities. As President...

In this episode, I talk with Paige Swanstein, Co-Founder and Co-Executive Director of the Student Basic Needs Coalition (SBNC), a national nonprofit working to end food, housing, and healthcare insecurity among college students. SBNC bridges technology, policy, and student leadership to drive systemic change — and has already connected students to over $27 million in SNAP and Medicaid benefits acr...

In this episode of Free-ish in Higher Ed , I sit down with Dr. Goldrick-Rab, scholar activist and founder of the #RealCollege movement. Known for transforming student struggles into systemic solutions, Dr. Goldrick-Rab has spent her career centering students’ voices and fighting to make higher education more just and accessible. From advising the Obama and Biden administrations to founding The Hop...

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Kimberly Jones, a proud Latina, first-generation college graduate, and one of the less than one percent of Latinas in the U.S. who hold a doctorate. With over 15 years of experience, Dr. Jones is a dynamic higher education leader and champion for equity and representation. She designs programs that empower student leaders, build belonging, and drive meaningful...

In this episode I sit down with Dr. Ja’Bette Lozupone, a former teen mom turned higher ed leader, executive coach, business owner, and unapologetic advocate for equity. Dr. Lozupone is the Founder of Wishful Doing LLC, a consulting firm built to awaken potential, amplify equity, and turn big visions into bold results. She also serves as Director of Student Affairs at Montgomery College, where she...

In this episode, I sit down with Lynne Hamblin, a passionate advocate for adult education and peer leader at Rogue Community College in Oregon. After earning her GED in 2021, Lynne returned to school while raising her twins and working on campus as a student employee. She recently launched a parenting club to support other student parents and has shared her story at conferences across the state. L...

In this episode, I sit down with Christina Hasaan, a first-generation college graduate, teen mom, and community builder who has spent over a decade using education and storytelling to drive change. Christina currently serves the city of Philadelphia as a community leader in many ways. Christina leads workshops and builds meaningful connections across neighborhoods. We talk about her journey throug...

In this episode, I sit down with Frederick Shegog, founder of The Message LLC, motivational speaker, and advocate for recovery, mental health, and equity in education. Freddy’s story is one of transformation, from battling homelessness and addiction to becoming a college graduate and a national voice for student support. He shares how real, personal support changed his life, what it means to creat...

In this episode, I sit down with Alisha Small, founder of Living Fulfilled Coaching & Consulting, a personal development coach, mentor, and advocate for student parents, students with disabilities, and workforce development. Alisha’s story shows the power of personal growth and mentorship to create real change. She shares how her experiences as a non-traditional student and parent shaped her p...

In this episode, I talk with Dr. Lance Bennett, founder of The People’s Institute for the Common Good, an organization dedicated to creating spaces where people come together for honest conversations, shared learning, and imagining a better future rooted in justice and community. Dr. Bennett’s work shows what’s possible when we create new spaces for connection and change. We discuss the impact his...

In this episode, I sit down with Jasmine Crawford, a dual-enrollment student who is deeply involved in her school’s STEM program, student council, spirit team, and varsity tennis. Her story shows what is possible when students are supported. When families stay involved and professors empower their students, students like Jasmine succeed. Jasmine is a future STEM leader and a voice we need to hear....

In this special Juneteenth episode, I’m joined by Dr. Charles Leslie to spotlight the Texas Association of Black Personnel in Higher Education (TABPHE). Dr. Leslie honors the legacy of the founders—pioneers who created space when there was none—and shares how the impact of their work is still being felt today. He also invites listeners to be part of the movement. Learn more or get involved at TABP...

In this first episode of Free-ish in Higher Ed , I share the story behind the name and why I had to start this podcast. This conversation is about what it means to be told you're free while still navigating barriers that say otherwise. Free-ish is personal. It’s about chasing a degree in a system that wasn’t built for us, making space for all voices in higher ed, and telling the truth about ac...