High School Counseling Conversations®

By Lauren Tingle, School CounselorEducation Self-Improvement How To

High School Counseling Conversations® episodes

March 10, 2025Gamifying the College Search Process with Sam Bernstein
Think college searches have to be boring and overwhelming? Think again! In this episode, I sit down with Sam Bernstein, co-founder of the Loper app, to talk about how gamification is shaking up the college search process. We all know that researching colleges can feel like an endless, stressful task for students and for you as counselors trying to guide them. But what if there was a way to make it engaging, intuitive, and even FUN? That’s exactly what Sam and his team set out to do with Loper, and he’s here to share how it’s helping students take charge of their college exploration in a whole new way.
Sam breaks down how Loper’s game-inspired design hooks students from the start with a swipe-based interface and chat-style onboarding…no intimidating college lists or endless research required. Instead of feeling pressured to have everything figured out, students can explore schools in a way that feels natural and exciting. Whether they’re hyper-focused on college, just starting to think about it, or completely unsure of their next step, Loper meets them where they are.
And here’s what else caught my attention—Loper isn’t just about four-year colleges. Sam shares how they’re expanding the app to include two-year programs, trade schools, and other postsecondary paths, giving students a bigger picture of what’s possible. This episode is packed with guidance on how you, as counselors, can use technology to make the college search process more accessible and less overwhelming. After listening, download the app (it’s free!) and take a look around. I know you’ll enjoy the conversations it sparks with your students!
Resources Mentioned:
College Readiness Playlist
Loper App
Lead for America
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Connect with Lauren:
Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviews
Visit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shop
Send me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorclique
Follow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorclique
Send me an email mailto:[email protected]
Join the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.com

Full show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode157
33 min
March 03, 2025Time Management Strategies to Lighten Your Mental Load as a School Counselor with Kaci Ranger
Are you constantly juggling emails, student crises, and endless paperwork, feeling like there’s NEVER enough time in the day? I think most of you feel this way! That’s why I invited Kaci Ranger on the podcast to talk about practical time management strategies designed specifically for school counselors. We cover simple, effective ways to create structure in your day, set boundaries, and use digital tools to lighten your mental load.
Kaci shares actionable tips that make organization feel doable, whether you’re just starting your counseling career or looking to refine your existing systems. From setting up an ideal schedule to taming your inbox, we discuss strategies that help you take control of your time and focus on what truly matters - supporting your students. And the best part? These tweaks don’t require learning complicated software or overhauling everything at once. They’re small, strategic changes that can make a big difference in how you manage your workload.
So, where will you start? Maybe it’s setting up a simple request form, limiting your email checks, or finally putting your ideal schedule into action. Whatever it is, I’d love to hear about it! Send me a DM on Instagram and let me know which tips you’re implementing first. And don’t forget to share this episode with your co-counselors. These time management strategies are even more powerful when you put them into practice as a team!
Resources Mentioned:
Podcast: Episode 44, Owning Your Time Management By Using Your Calendar
Podcast: Episode 103, Rachel Davis Shows Us How to Reclaim Our Schedule With a Time Audit
Podcast: Episode 106, Increase Your Job Satisfaction by Setting and Keeping Boundaries: Here’s How!
More episodes on time management
Leave your review for High School Counseling Conversations on Apple Podcasts

Connect with Lauren:
Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviews
Visit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shop
Send me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorclique
Follow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorclique
Send me an email mailto:[email protected]
Join the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.com

Full show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode156
45 min
February 24, 2025When Parents Don’t Understand Your Role as a Counselor (and How to Change That!)
Have you ever felt like parents don’t understand what you actually do as a school counselor? I know I’ve experienced this more times than I can count! In this episode, I dive into the challenges of working with parents who may not fully grasp your role and how that misunderstanding can sometimes lead to frustration or even hostility. While it’s easy to feel discouraged, let’s remember that you’re on the same team, and approaching these conversations with kindness, patience, and clarity can make all the difference!
I share personal experiences with difficult parent interactions and explore some of the reasons behind why parents don’t understand your role, whether it’s past experiences with counselors, unrealistic media portrayal, or simply not knowing how packed your days truly are. Instead of letting these moments derail us, I’m bringing you strategies to set boundaries, communicate expectations, and educate parents about your work.
Resources Mentioned:
The Clique Collaborative High School Counseling Membership
Leave your review for High School Counseling Conversations on Apple Podcasts

Connect with Lauren:
Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviews
Visit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shop
Send me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorclique
Follow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorclique
Send me an email mailto:[email protected]
Join the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.com

Full show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode155
17 min
February 17, 2025How to Set up a Peer Leader Program in Your School
What if you could create a program that not only helps your students grow as leaders but also strengthens your entire school community? That’s exactly what we’re diving into today! I’m breaking down how to set up a successful peer leader program that empowers students, builds relationships, and lightens your counseling load.
I’ll walk you through the key steps to selecting student ambassadors, training them effectively, and ensuring your peer leader program runs smoothly all year long! You’ll hear real-life examples of what worked in my school and how we structured our program to make a real impact. Whether you want your peer leaders to welcome new students or develop leadership skills, this episode will give you the roadmap to make it happen.
If you’re ready to implement a peer leader program that truly benefits your students and your school, grab my Student Ambassador and Leadership Small Group Bundle to help you get started! This is a great first step toward launching a program your students will love.
Resources Mentioned:
Resource: Student Ambassadors Small Group
Resource: Leadership Small Group
Resource: Student Ambassadors and Leadership Small Group Bundle
Leave your review for High School Counseling Conversations on Apple Podcasts

Connect with Lauren:
Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviews
Visit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shop
Send me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorclique
Follow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorclique
Send me an email mailto:[email protected]
Join the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.com

Full show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode154
18 min
February 10, 2025Noticing: A Spoken Word by Leah Grant
Have you ever stopped to truly notice the world around you—the small moments and subtle ways people carry the weight of their day? In this unique episode, I’m sharing a spoken word piece by Leah Grant, a high school counselor and podcast listener, who beautifully captures the essence of what it means to be a counselor. Through her quiet observations in the hallways, she reflects on the emotional toll of social media, the growing disconnect from real human connection, and how these shifts have transformed the high school experience.
Leah doesn’t just share what she notices. She also reveals how she helps students process their emotions, navigate difficult situations, and reconnect with the world around them. Her words will make you pause, reflect, and see your own role in a new light. I have a feeling this episode will stay with you long after you listen, and if it resonates with you, I encourage you to share it with a friend!
Resources Mentioned:
Free Resource: 4-Day High School Counseling Advocacy Email Challenge
Leave your review for High School Counseling Conversations on Apple Podcasts

Connect with Lauren:
Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviews
Visit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shop
Send me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorclique
Follow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorclique
Send me an email mailto:[email protected]
Join the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.com

Full show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode153
11 min
February 03, 2025We're Back With a Mid-Year Pep Talk and Check In
After 150 episodes without a break, I finally hit pause - and it was the best decision! But now we’re back with a mid-year check in and pep talk. Plus, I’m sharing what I learned during my three-month hiatus and how it’s brought fresh inspiration for the podcast. I’ve got lots of incredible guests lined up and plenty of actionable tips and resources coming your way in 2025!
You’ll hear me share the ups and downs of podcasting, including dealing with imposter syndrome and the pressure to create content that hits the mark for you! Your encouragement means the world to me, and I’d love to hear your feedback on what topics you’d like covered next. So send me a message anytime on Instagram @counselorclique!
You’re doing incredible work, and I want this podcast to always remind you of that! From managing overwhelming caseloads to making a difference in your students’ lives, I know your job isn’t easy. That’s why I’m here to cheer you on and provide tools to help. Don’t miss my free four-day email advocacy challenge - it’s perfect for National School Counseling Week and beyond!
Resources Mentioned:
Resource: The Clique Collaborative Membership
Resource: The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer
Free Resource: 4-Day High School Counseling Advocacy Email Challenge
Leave your review for School Counseling Conversations on Apple Podcasts

Connect with Lauren:
Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviews
Visit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shop
Send me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorclique
Follow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorclique
Send me an email mailto:[email protected]
Join the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.com

Full show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode152
20 min
October 29, 2024See You in 2025, High School Counselors!
Can you believe that in 150 episodes of this podcast, I've never taken a week off from releasing episodes? Well, the time has come! High School Counseling Conversations will be on an official break from November 2024-January 2025. I'll return with new episodes in February 2025.
While we're on break, I invite you to enjoy previous episodes (check out my favorite playlists below!). If you have a specific topic you're looking for, send me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique. Thank you for being a listener of the show!
Check Out These Podcast Playlists While We're on a Break:
Advocacy: https://counselorclique.com/advocacyplaylist
Reset for the New Year: https://counselorclique.com/resetplaylist
Classroom Lessons: http://counselorclique.com/classroomplaylist
College Readiness: https://counselorclique.com/collegeplaylist
New Counselors: http://counselorclique.com/newcounselorplaylist
Small Group Counseling: https://counselorclique.com/smallgroupplaylist

Resources Mentioned:
Guest Episode Application: https://counselorclique.com/podcastguest
Leave your review for School Counseling Conversations on Apple Podcasts

Connect with Lauren:
Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviews
Visit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shop
Send me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorclique
Follow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorclique
Send me an email mailto:[email protected]
Join the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.com
4 min
October 28, 2024Shining a Light on Child Sex Trafficking with Krystal Nierman of Switch
We talk about a lot of sensitive topics as school counselors, and today is no exception. We’re taking a deep dive into child sex trafficking. Heavy, I know. But with sex trafficking happening all around us, this just might be the conversation you never knew you needed to hear.
I’m joined by Krystal Nierman of Switch, an organization fighting to end sex trafficking and sexual exploitation. Krystal shares what sex trafficking really looks like…and there’s a good chance it’s not what you think! Plus, you’ll hear how to spot the red flags among students, what to do if you suspect it’s happening, and actions we can take (and teach to others) to help prevent sex trafficking.
Be sure to check the links below for more valuable resources on this topic. This is something that could be affecting students at your own school in various ways, so keep asking questions and follow your gut if you feel like something is off. Share this episode with fellow counselors to help spread awareness around child sex trafficking!
Resources Mentioned:
Free Resource: Editable Scholarship Spreadsheet - https://counselorclique.com/scholarship
Switch Website: https://switchsc.org
National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-888-373-7888
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMC): https://www.missingkids.org/home
Child Sex Trafficking: https://www.missingkids.org/theissues/trafficking
Child Sexual Abuse Material: https://www.missingkids.org/theissues/csam
National Center on Sexual Exploitation (NCOSE): https://endsexualexploitation.org

Connect with Lauren:
Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviews
Visit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shop
Send me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorclique
Follow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorclique
Send me an email mailto:[email protected]
Join the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.com

Full show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode150
57 min
October 21, 2024Pregnant and Parenting Teens: How to Support This Unique Population as a High School Counselor
What do you do if a student tells you they’re pregnant? There’s a good chance you were asked this question during a job interview because it’s a situation that you will probably run into sooner rather than later. In fact, if you’ve been a high school counselor for any length of time, it’s highly likely that you’ve already supported pregnant students!
The truth is, you want to be prepared to not only support your students during their pregnancy but also throughout their journey as a teen parent. As we know, the challenges your students will face don’t end after having their baby. There are interventions you can put in place to help your pregnant students transition to parenthood and reach their future goals.
In this episode, I’m sharing ideas for supporting your pregnant students in three specific areas: their relationships, their knowledge, and their motivation. You’ll hear about resources and sample questions that you can ask your parenting and pregnant students in each of these categories. If you have questions or ideas around serving this unique population, send me a message on Instagram @counselorclique!
Resources Mentioned:
Resource: The Clique Collaborative - www.cliquecollab.com
Resource: Classroom Lesson Roadmap - http://www.counselorclique.com/classroomroadmap
Resource: CDC Teen Pregnancy Data
Resource: U.S. and State Trends on Teen Births, 1990-2019
Resource: U.S. Teen Birth Rate Reached Another Historic Low in 2022
Resource: Teen Birth Rate by State
Article: State Teen Birth Rates by Race and Hispanic Origin: United States, 2017–2018 (Hamilton, 2020)
Leave your review for School Counseling Conversations on Apple Podcasts

Full show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode149
Connect with Lauren:
Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviews
Visit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shop
Send me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorclique
Follow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorclique
Send me an email mailto:[email protected]
Join the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.com
19 min
October 14, 2024Developing Cultural Competency to Better Support Your Students with Jocelynn Hubbard
You may not realize this, but you have a unique superpower in your role as a high school counselor! You have the ability to nurture your students and walk them through four of the most important years of their life. One practice that will help you strengthen this superpower is cultural competency.
Today’s guest, Jocelynn Hubbard, is here to help us develop cultural competency at work and in our personal lives. It starts with becoming more aware of your beliefs, your biases, and all of your lived experiences. Then you start to see how this compares with your students and how you can use that information to better support them as individuals.
Jocelynn breaks down exactly what cultural competency is and how it can inform your counseling practice. She gives great examples of what this practice looks like day to day. You’ll quickly see how every moment of your day can become an opportunity to develop cultural competency and strengthen relationships with your students! After listening, you can download Jocelynn’s Roadmap to inform you of your next steps.
Resources Mentioned:
Free Resource: Scholarship Spreadsheet - https://counselorclique.com/scholarship
Free Resource: The Welcoming & Culturally Inclusive Classroom Roadmap - https://customteachingsolutions.com/theroadmap/
Jocelynn's Podcast: The Culture-Centered Classroom
Resource: What Should Culturally Relevant Teaching Look Like Today? Gloria Ladson-Billings Explains
Resource: Cultivating Genius: An Equity Framework for Culturally and Historically Responsive Literacy, by Gholdy Muhammad
Resource: Dr. Geneva Gay
Leave your review for School Counseling Conversations on Apple Podcasts

Full show notes on website: https://counselorclique.com/episode148
Connect with Lauren:
Sign up for the free, 3-day prep for High School Counseling Job Interviews https://counselorclique.com/interviews
Visit my TpT store https://counselorclique.com/shop
Send me a DM on Instagram @counselorclique https://instagram.com/counselorclique
Follow me on Facebook https://facebook.com/counselorclique
Send me an email mailto:[email protected]
Join the Clique Collaborative http://cliquecollab.com
40 min

About High School Counseling Conversations®

From the publisher's feed

High School Counseling Conversations® is a podcast dedicated to energizing your school counseling program while reminding you how much you love your job! This podcast will give you the confidence you need to implement actionable ideas into your high school counseling program… all while having a little fun along the way.