Best Birkman Assessment High School Students Podcasts (2025)

1
Empower Teens to Bridge Differences and Thrive with Tara Harvey 27:47

1d ago27:47

27:47

In this episode, Lisa and Tara discuss: Navigating cultural, generational, and personal differences through intercultural competence Building self-awareness as the foundation for meaningful cross-cultural understanding Creating opportunities for teens to develop global and human skills in everyday contexts Connecting intercultural experiences to lo…

1
Boosting Selective College Admissions and Affordability with Phil Black 39:14

9d ago39:14

39:14

In this episode, Lisa and Phil discuss: The increasing competitiveness of college admissions and how students can stand out College affordability challenges and emerging solutions for middle-income families How military-affiliated education pathways like Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) are evolving in today's landscape Strategic early plann…

1
Mastering College Admissions Interviews for Better Results with Alison Slater 32:38

16d ago32:38

32:38

In this episode, Lisa and Alison Slater discuss: Mastering college interviews as a tool for standing out in competitive admissions Building confidence and communication through intentional interview prep Navigating different formats and policies of college interviews Applying interview skills to scholarships, internships, and future jobs Key Takeaw…

1
In-Demand Entrepreneurial Skills Every Teen Needs with Stephen Carter 31:06

23d ago31:06

31:06

In this episode, Lisa and Stephen discuss: Entrepreneurial mindset development for comprehensive student growth Career readiness beyond traditional educational frameworks Soft skills as critical professional success indicators Family's strategic role in cultivating adaptive thinking skills Key Takeaways: Entrepreneurial skills can be intentionally …

1
The Top 3 Scholarship Essays That Win Money with Leia LeMaster Horton 33:26

1M ago33:26

33:26

In this episode, Lisa and Leia discuss: Strategies for crafting effective scholarship essays How early planning influences scholarship success Understanding the types of scholarships available Maintaining consistency and organization throughout the scholarship process Key Takeaways: Focusing on three core essays—the personal statement, community im…

1
Building Math Confidence for Better Career Options with Ben Orlin 32:32

1M ago32:32

32:32

In this episode, Lisa and Ben discuss: The impact of math confidence and mindset on educational and career paths How math anxiety can steer students away from valuable opportunities The importance of data literacy and real-world applications of math Strategies for building confidence and persistence in learning math Key Takeaways: Developing math c…

1
Behind the Scenes: What Makes a College Application Fall Flat with Amanda Leszczuk 34:39

1M ago34:39

34:39

In this episode, Lisa and Amanda discuss: A holistic admissions review that looks beyond grades and test scores Writing authentic, personal essays that reflect a student’s true identity Strategically crafting supplemental essays to show university fit and motivation Preparing for campus visits to gather insights for stronger applications Key Takeaw…

1
AI and College Essays: What Families Need to Know with Susan Knoppow 37:37

2M ago37:37

37:37

In this episode, Lisa and Susan discuss: How AI impacts the essay-writing process for students Mistaken beliefs about what makes a strong application essay Crafting essays that truly reflect a student's voice and experiences Helpful strategies and tools that can assist in writing a strong college essay Key Takeaways: AI should not be used to genera…

1
The Hidden Impact of College Major Selection on Admissions with Rick Clark 41:43

2M ago41:43

41:43

In this episode, Lisa and Rick discuss: How a student’s choice of future intended major impacts their college admissions chances The role of holistic review in determining “Fit To Major” (FTM) The challenges students face when trying to change majors after admission Why flexibility is essential in the college application process Key Takeaways: Coll…

1
How to Identify Student-Centered Colleges: Key Insights with Elliot Felix 35:07

2M ago35:07

35:07

In this episode, Lisa and Elliot discuss: How to identify truly student-centered colleges beyond marketing claims The impact of well-connected campus services on student success Why experiential learning is essential for career readiness The hidden challenges of higher education that students and families should know Key Takeaways: Colleges with on…

1
Scientifically Matching Your Teen to an Ideal Career Path with Amy Shepley 39:37

2M ago39:37

39:37

In this episode, Lisa and Amy discuss: Identifying personality traits, interests, and work styles for career exploration Factors influencing long-term career satisfaction and professional fulfillment The research and validation behind data-driven career assessments The relationship between career clarity, education choices, and financial outcomes K…

1
Admissions Insider Q&A with John Durante: Your College Questions Answered 49:20

3M ago49:20

49:20

In this episode, Lisa and Dr. John discuss: Navigating the college admissions process thoughtfully How colleges handle financial aid, scholarships, and what you can do to know the true college costs Building a college list based on fit, not prestige Crafting a strong personal story in your teen’s application through essays, interviews, and extracur…

1
How Small Academic Changes Can Mean Big Merit Aid Dollars with Brian Eufinger 38:19

3M ago38:19

38:19

In this episode, Lisa and Brian discuss: Strategies for maximizing college scholarships given by the institutions The difference in merit vs. need-based financial aid The role of GPA and standardized testing, ACT and SAT, in scholarship awards Colleges with merit scholarship grids where students can know the amount they can earn for good grades and…

1
Unlocking Neurodiversity & Career Planning Success with Rebecca Whittaker Matte 36:15

3M ago36:15

36:15

In this episode, Lisa and Rebecca discuss: Shifting from a deficit-based to a strengths-based model for career development for neurodiverse students The importance of self-awareness in career planning and decision-making How experiential learning enhances career exploration and job fit for all students Challenges and strategies for neurodiverse stu…

1
Building Your Teen's College Support Team with Megan Rose 38:40

3M ago38:40

38:40

In this episode, Lisa and Megan discuss: Understanding the role of a school counselor The benefits of independent educational consultants (IECs) Collaboration between school counselors and Independent Educational Consultants How families can get support navigating college admissions based on their budget Key Takeaways: Many school counselors manage…

1
Expert Guide to Summer Programs for Teens with Cindy McCormick 34:10

4M ago34:10

34:10

In this episode, Lisa and Cindy discuss: Summer programs as a college & career exploration tool Enhancing college applications through summer experiences The rise of STEM programs & growing competition Choosing the right summer program & avoiding misleading claims Key Takeaways: Deadlines for selective summer programs are often in January or early …

1
Boost Your Teen's Personal Narrative Before Applications with Dave Peterson 31:52

4M ago31:52

31:52

In this episode, Lisa and Dave Peterson discuss: The role of personal narratives in college applications and scholarships Winning strategies beyond academics and extracurriculars The importance of future-oriented thinking for scholarship and college admission success Fixing common mistakes students make and misconceptions about what matters most Ke…

1
How World Languages Open Doors with Dr. Karyn Koven 38:58

4M ago38:58

38:58

In this episode, Lisa and Dr. Karyn Koven discuss: Importance of language study in education and future opportunities Flexible and innovative alternatives for world language learning College admissions considerations for world language persistence Emerging credentials like the Global Seal of Biliteracy Key Takeaways: Persisting in language studies …

1
Study Strategies to Beat Your Teen's Mid-Year Slump with Katie Azevedo 32:57

4M ago32:57

32:57

In this episode, Lisa and Katie Azevedo discuss: The mid-year academic slump and its impact The role of task and time management systems in student success Shifting from passive to active learning Guiding teens to take ownership through the right questions and tools Key Takeaways: Students often face three interconnected struggles mid-year: increas…

1
Behind the Mic: Lisa's Journey to Launch Career Clarity 55:17

5M ago55:17

55:17

In this special third-anniversary episode, Lisa steps into the guest chair with Doug Sandler, host of The Nice Guys on Business podcast. She reflects on the challenges, triumphs, and lessons that shaped her journey from high school teacher to transformative career coach and her mission to guide teens toward fulfilling futures. This episode offers a…

1
Decoding GPA Confusion Before College Apps with Ann LaFemina 35:19

5M ago35:19

35:19

In this episode, Lisa and Ann discuss: The role of grades and GPA as a fundamental aspect of college admissions Differentiating weighted versus unweighted GPA systems and their significance in the college admissions process The value of understanding high school profiles and how they influence college application reviews Finding a balance between a…

1
Unlock What College Admissions Officers Want with Dr. John Durante 43:46

5M ago43:46

43:46

In this episode, Lisa and Dr. John discuss: Importance of understanding college admissions processes, including test-optional policies and supplemental essays Role of financial considerations in determining college fit and navigating institutional aid policies Strategies for demonstrating interest and aligning applications with college-specific pri…

1
Best of 2024: Colleges Share How Admissions by Major Works with Lisa Marker Robbins 35:32

5M ago35:32

35:32

In this episode, Lisa discusses: Trends in highly competitive majors like computer science, nursing, engineering, and business The importance of aligning high school coursework and extracurricular activities with the intended major The differences between liberal arts colleges and universities in admissions by major. Three categories of how college…

1
Best of 2023: College Admissions Demystified—The Role of Majors with Andy Borst 34:49

5M ago34:49

34:49

In this episode, Lisa and Andy discuss: Why some universities require students to apply directly to a major and how that affects admission chances. How demand, faculty, and resources impact the number of students accepted into certain majors (like Computer Science). Understanding why some programs aren’t open for major changes later, making the fir…

1
Best of 2022: Simplify College Major Selection Using the Birkman with Sharon Birkman 34:53

6M ago34:53

34:53

In this episode, Lisa and Sharon discuss: What sets the Birkman Method apart is different from other assessments for college and career clarity. How your teen can use the Birkman as a starting point to understand themself - not just academically, but also to their environment and others. How narrowing options can increase confidence and lead to mor…

1
Getting Student Leadership Experiences and Internships with INTERalliance 36:59

6M ago36:59

36:59

In this episode, Lisa, Keith, and Tejas discuss: The value of student-led experiences and internships for your teen. Building teen confidence, developing professional skills while still in high school, and using experiences to gain clarity about future careers. The importance of your student getting involved in extracurriculars early in high school…

1
Teen Career Development: Who's Responsible? with Vicki Weisbrod 36:00

6M ago36:00

36:00

In this episode, Lisa and Vicki discuss: How your teen’s school, you (as the parent), and your teen can work together to drive your student’s career development. The right time for your student to begin thinking about their future career path. Why your teen should be considering careers, not just college majors. The difference between career develo…

1
Move Beyond Helicopter Parenting with Cheryl Pankhurst 27:38

6M ago27:38

27:38

In this episode, Lisa and Cheryl discuss: Strategies to help coach your teen without becoming a helicopter parent. How to identify when helping your teen is actually hurting them. Why your teen needs to learn to fix things on their own before they reach high school graduation. Transitioning from a parenting to a coaching role in your child’s life. …

1
Boosting STEM Student Success Through Math Contests with Vida John 37:00

7M ago37:00

37:00

In this episode, Lisa and Vida discuss: How math contests can be a strategy for STEM-focused teens providing an edge with college applications and other opportunities. Enhancing problem-solving and critical thinking skills through math contests. How to get involved in math competitions, how contests work, and the best ways to prepare. What you and …

1
Teen Career Development: From Overwhelm to Confidence with Lisa Marker Robbins 22:15

7M ago22:15

22:15

In this episode, Lisa discusses: The ideal time to start career development with your student and why it’s a lifelong process starting in the early years. The powerful ways early self-awareness will benefit your student. Strategies for overcoming common obstacles for your teen to move forward in confidence. Free resources that are available to supp…

1
Law Careers Beyond the Courtroom with Lauren McClain 35:43

7M ago35:43

35:43

In this episode, Lisa and Lauren discuss: Different legal field career paths beyond litigation and the courtroom. What a day in the office of a non-litigating lawyer looks like. Essential skills and qualities needed for success and enjoyment as an attorney. Valuable advice for high school students and those in college contemplating a legal career. …

1
Overcoming Student Procrastination with Michelle McAnaney, the College Spy 33:58

7M ago33:58

33:58

In this episode, Lisa and Michelle discuss: The real reasons behind student procrastination. Discovering which of the three types of procrastinators your teen is. Practical strategies to help your teen overcome procrastination hurdles. How to differentiate feelings from facts to accomplish important tasks on time. Key Takeaways: Procrastination is …

1
Early College Application Strategies with Jeff Levy & Jennie Kent 33:45

8M ago33:45

33:45

In this episode, Lisa, Jeff, and Jennie discuss: The different types of early college applications and what they each mean. Navigation strategies and deadlines for early applications. Which students will benefit from early applications, and which might not. What the data really says about early application acceptance rates. Key Takeaways: Because E…

1
Military Service Academy Majors & Career Paths with Phil Black 36:19

8M ago36:19

36:19

In this episode, Lisa and Phil discuss: Understanding the unique options available to students of military academies. The diverse majors and career paths that are offered through the service academies. Career paths, both military and civilian, for military academy graduates. Early preparation for success at military service academies. Key Takeaways…

1
FAFSA & Financial Aid Delays: Buying College Better with Beth Walker 33:39

8M ago33:39

33:39

In this episode, Lisa and Beth discuss: Update on the recent delays in the 2024 FAFSA financial aid application. Navigating the college funding process more efficiently without being dependent on FAFSA outcomes. How to navigate financial aid filing deadlines for high school seniors and returning college students. Strategies to reverse engineer coll…

1
SAT, ACT, and Test-Optional Admissions: What Parents Need to Know with David Blobaum 38:51

8M ago38:51

38:51

In this episode, Lisa and David discuss: Understanding how colleges use ACT and SAT scores in admissions. Breaking down common myths about test scores and test-optional admissions. How grade inflation impacts your teen’s GPA and admissions chances. The latest policies for ACT, SAT, AP, and IB exams. How much focus and time your teen should commit t…

1
Lessons Learned from 200+ Colleges with John Durante 42:39

8M ago42:39

42:39

In this episode, Lisa and John discuss: Identifying the controllables and the non-controllables during your teen’s college application process. What your teen should include on the college application to ensure they are accurately representing themself. What should be included on your teen’s activities list in their application. The accessibility o…

1
Avoiding the Pitfalls of College Transfers with Jaime Smith 34:40

9M ago34:40

34:40

In this episode, Lisa and Jaime discuss: How to prevent unplanned future transfers for your teen. What a “planned transfer” is, when it might make sense, and when it won’t work. Common reasons why over ⅓ of undergraduate students transfer. Articulation agreements between colleges that can benefit transfers. Key Takeaways: More than ⅓ of undergradua…

1
Showcasing Leadership in College Admissions with Lee Norwood 34:59

9M ago34:59

34:59

In this episode, Lisa and Lee discuss: Why it’s a myth your teen’s college application needs 10 extracurriculars. Creative ways to demonstrate leadership beyond traditional titles. Ideas for furthering your teen’s leadership experiences, whether they’re just starting high school or beginning their college application process. How to think about you…

1
Your Teen's (Perfect) College Application Essay with College Bound Mentor 28:51

9M ago28:51

28:51

In this episode, Lisa, Lisa, Abby, and Stefanie discuss: Busting myths about your teen’s personal statement on their college application. If your teen should write about personal hardships. How to focus on being authentic, not being unique. The four-question rubric your teen needs to address when writing their essay. The role of parents in allowing…

1
Raising Resilient Teens with Dr. Tovah Klein 33:51

9M ago33:51

33:51

In this episode, Lisa and Tovah discuss: The nuisance stressors your teen has to handle every day. Building resilience in the face of uncertainty. What it means to be a buffer for your child. Parenting styles that have been beneficial or harmful to building resiliency in teams. Why you have to work on yourself to build resiliency in your children a…

1
Performing Arts Majors: Tips for Navigating Admissions with Mollie Reznick 30:18

10M ago30:18

30:18

In this episode, Lisa and Mollie discuss: The biggest uncertainties students and parents have around theater and other performing arts majors. The distinction between getting a BA or a BFA while in school and beyond. Practical skills that students learn when majoring in theater. Starting early in the admissions process for theater and performing ar…

1
Transformative Cultural Abroad Experiences for Teen Personal Growth with Johnny Tock 33:08

10M ago33:08

33:08

In this episode, Lisa and Johnny discuss: The pressures students are under from all directions. How parents can recognize when their students are struggling and how to help them. Culturally immersive programs and how they can burst the bubble students are living in. Creating change with important life experiences for your student. Learning valuable…

1
Public vs. Private Colleges: Myths and Facts with Dr. Matthew Ward 34:30

10M ago34:30

34:30

In this episode, Lisa and Matthew discuss: Common misconceptions regarding the cost and accessibility of private colleges. Advantages of private colleges many do not know about. How to understand and evaluate a college’s mission and values. Recognizing financial aid opportunities and understanding the true costs and benefits of private colleges. Ke…

1
Tips for College-Bound Neurodiverse Students with Jessica Nelson 32:52

10M ago32:52

32:52

In this episode, Lisa and Jessica discuss: The three types of college support services for neurodiverse students. Recognizing what support services your student used in high school including invisible supports they may need to be successful. How to assess the quality of disability services at colleges. Preparing your neurodiverse teen for independe…

1
Computer Science and STEM Admissions Tips with Jyoti Jain 30:00

11M ago30:00

30:00

In this episode, Lisa and Jyoti discuss: Strategies for applying to Computer Science Majors and related STEM majors. STEM majors that are alternatives to computer science that may be a better fit for your teen. The importance of demonstrating intellectual curiosity, problem-solving skills, and community impact in college applications. The differenc…

1
Exploring Liberal Arts Colleges: Benefits and Fit with Anne Ingersoll 30:29

11M ago30:29

30:29

In this episode, Lisa and Anne discuss: The benefits of liberal arts colleges and how to determine if they might be a good fit for your teen. How liberal arts colleges differ from larger research universities. Misconceptions about liberal arts colleges. Helping your teen understand their learning style to determine the right type of school for them…

1
Pathway to Becoming a Pilot: Admissions and Career Insights with Penny Linsenmayer 36:57

11M ago36:57

36:57

In this episode, Lisa and Penny discuss: Different pathways for your teen to become a pilot The unique college application process for professional flight majors. Planning for unexpected costs with the path to aviation. Medical requirements and certifications that help and hinder potential pilots. Key Takeaways: Your student can fly solo by age 16 …

1
Empowering Teens for Success: Career Readiness with Lorna Bryant 29:00

11M ago29:00

29:00

In this episode, Lisa and Lorna discuss: Skills that will help your teen make connections and be a better candidate for college and career. While students want more clarity on career paths, why they are feeling overwhelmed, and how they can be helped. How students can take advantage of industries connecting with young talent earlier than ever befor…

1
Winning College Scholarships: Expert Tips with Dave The Scholarship Coach 32:19

12M ago32:19

32:19

In this episode, Lisa and Dave discuss: How Dave’s son graduated from college debt-free by earning over $50,000 in scholarships The three main categories of scholarships. How to uncover private scholarships. A step-by-step guide for your teen to become a better scholarship applicant. Why you should begin looking for scholarships as soon as your stu…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Birkman Assessment High School Students Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

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