What if sending your child to college didn’t have to feel overwhelming—but instead became a season of clarity, confidence, and purpose?

In this episode of Write Your Own Story, Betsy sits down with Shellee Howard, bestselling author, certified college counselor, and founder of College Ready, to unpack the truth about preparing teens for higher education. A mom of four who successfully sent each of her kids to college debt-free, Shellee knows the system inside and out—and she’s here to help parents replace panic with a plan.

From skyrocketing tuition to admission essays, from figuring out what your teen truly loves to negotiating financial aid, this conversation is both eye-opening and empowering. It’s not just about college—it’s about raising confident, self-aware young adults who know how to step into their own story.

Tune in for:

• How to help your teen discover who they are (and what lights them up)
• Why community service and purpose-driven projects open doors to scholarships
• The myths around SAT/ACT scores, and what really matters
• How to negotiate tuition like it’s a business deal (because it is)
• The mindset shift that helps parents let go—and trust their teen’s path

Whether you’re parenting a freshman or staring down senior year, this episode is a roadmap for supporting your child without losing your mind (or your savings). Most of all, it’s a reminder that you can raise children who are ready to soar—and you don’t have to do it alone.

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