Getting In: A College Coach Conversation

Host Ian Fisher kicks off this episode with BH finance expert Marina Zaretskiy, who shares what financial aid offices wish rising senior families understood before application season begins. From emphasizing that they are accessible to families with questions or who have updates to their financial situations to the differences between the applications, she offers a helpful behind‑the‑scenes look at how it all works.
 
In our second segment, Ian welcomes BH College Coach Robin Khadduri to dig into what colleges wish rising seniors knew. She talks through how to ask thoughtful questions, how demonstrated interest works, the importance of students sharing their authentic voice, and more.
 
Finally, BH College Coach Nicole Doyle and her son, high school senior Jack Doyle, join the show to share what students wish colleges knew. Jack also shares what it's like to navigate this process when your parent is an expert in the field and what types of discussions seniors have about the application process.

Host Ian Fisher kicks off this episode with BH College Coach Carrie Lewis, who answers a question many families have this time of year: Are colleges still accepting applications? Carrie walks listeners through the process of applying outside the traditional fall and early‑spring deadlines, which usually involves rolling admission.
 
In our second segment, Ian welcomes colleague Kennon Dick for a conversation about one of the most common academic questions students ask: How many APs do I need to take to get into college? Kennon breaks down what curriculum rigor really means, how to find balance, and how colleges evaluate a student's choices within their specific context.
 
Finally, finance expert Jennifer Wilcox joins the show to offer a Federal Student Loan update, outlining what has (and hasn't) changed for 2026.

Host Kyra Tyler kicks off this episode with BH College Coach Caroline Damon, who breaks down February admit programs—those special events colleges host for admitted students to help them dig deeper into academics, campus life, and overall fit as they make their final decision about where to enroll.
In our second segment, Kyra welcomes colleague Lisa Albro to tackle a question many families are asking this spring: "How are all the college tours already booked, and how can I still demonstrate interest?" Lisa offers practical strategies for staying engaged even when campus calendars are full.
To close out Financial Aid Awareness Month, finance expert Laurie Peltier joins the show to discuss key questions families should ask the financial aid office—and others—when they're on a college tour.

Host Ian Fisher kicks off this episode with BH College Coach Cesar Contreras, who talks about what juniors should be doing right now in the spring semester to stay on track. Spoiler alert: It's definitely not the time to slack off.
 
In our second segment, Ian welcomes colleague Karen Spencer for a similar discussion, but this time focused on seniors in their last semester. You may have guessed it, but they also shouldn't slack off.
 
Finally, College Coach finance expert Russell Seidelman joins the show in recognition of February as Financial Aid Awareness Month. He offers guidance to families on how to interpret and compare financial aid notifications and award letters.

Are you one of the 99% concerned about how to pay for college? If so, the great news is that this episode of Getting In is devoted entirely to that topic. Host Shannon Vasconcelos will be joined by College Coach finance colleagues Michelle Smoley and Chrissy Foran to discuss financial aid methodologies, appeals, and, in honor of February: Financial Aid Awareness Month, do a broad and deep dive into financial aid.