In this episode, we sit down with James Alford, a proud TRIO alumnus who has turned his personal educational success into a lifelong career of supporting others. Today, James serves as an Academic Advisor within the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) College of Business, helping the next generation of students navigate their own paths to success.

James takes us through his foundational years at Northern Illinois University, where he earned a B.A. in Political Science with a minor in Black Studies, followed by an M.S.Ed. in Adult and Higher Education. We dive deep into his firsthand experiences navigating higher education as a TRIO participant, how those programs shaped his trajectory, and what it’s like to pay it forward every day as an advisor in higher education.

Whether you are a current TRIO student, an alum, or an educator looking for fresh inspiration, James’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact of dedicated mentorship and student support services.

Community Announcement Links:

TRIO Nation: Your voice is working! While Congress is moving to protect TRIO funding for 2026, we must remain vigilant. Administrative shifts still threaten the stability of TRIO grants. Take action now: Call your Congressional representatives today. Thank them for their bipartisan support and urge them to ensure TRIO programs remain fully funded and operational without delay. Let them know…TRIO Works!

A heartfelt thanks to our individual donors and Patrons on Patreon

A huge thanks to our corporate sponsors

Cover Art and Voice Over Work

Cover Art: Raul Perez

Voice Over Ad for Longsdale Publishing and StudentAccess: Amelia Castaneda

Voice Over Ad for NOSOTROS Education Center: Karla Sandoval

The Let’s Talk TRIO Podcast Team

John Russell: Music Composer, Music Performer, Audio Engineer, and Post-Production Editor

Amelia Castaneda: Script Supervisor, Marketing Manager, Social Media Manager, and Producer

Juan M. Rivas: Executive Producer & Host

Follow us on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram

Visit the Let’s Talk TRIO Podcast Webpage

In this episode, we are joined by William (Will) Herrera ... a proud TRIO alumnus, dedicated educator, and co-author of the powerful new book, “Dear First Gen.”

Will takes us through his inspiring educational journey, from his formative years to becoming a graduate of UC-Davis and holding a master's degree from UCLA. As a first-generation college graduate who grew up low-income, Will shares his perspective on the many "firsts" he’s experienced, the challenges he overcame, and the pivotal role that programs like TRIO played in his success.

We dive deep into a critical conversation about financial literacy, exploring the strategies first-gen students need to build sustainable wealth and a lasting legacy. Whether you are a student striving for success, a parent supporting your child’s dreams, or an educator working on the front lines of college access, this episode offers a roadmap for turning dreams into action.

Key Topics Covered:

Connect with Will Herrera & First Gen Legacy

Community Announcement Links:

TRIO Nation: Your voice is working! While Congress is moving to protect TRIO funding for 2026, we must remain vigilant. Administrative shifts still threaten the stability of TRIO grants. Take action now: Call your Congressional representatives today. Thank them for their bipartisan support and urge them to ensure TRIO programs remain fully funded and operational without delay. Let them know…TRIO Works!

A heartfelt thanks to our individual donors and Patrons on Patreon

A huge thanks to our corporate sponsors

Cover Art and Voice Over Work

Cover Art: Raul Perez

Voice Over Ad for Longsdale Publishing and StudentAccess: Amelia Castaneda

Voice Over Ad for NOSOTROS Education Center: Karla Sandoval

The Let’s Talk TRIO Podcast Team

John Russell: Music Composer, Music Performer, Audio Engineer, and Post-Production Editor

Amelia Castaneda: Script Supervisor, Marketing Manager, Social Media Manager, and Producer

Juan M. Rivas: Executive Producer & Host

Follow us on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram

Visit the Let’s Talk TRIO Podcast Webpage

In this episode, we sit down with Jesus Maldonado, a powerhouse in the world of educational equity and a long-time champion for students.

As a current Director for TRIO Educational Talent Search and GEAR UP, Jesus brings a wealth of on-the-ground experience to the show. We dive into the day-to-day realities of running these essential programs, the evolving landscape of college access, and how he manages the complexities of supporting first-generation students in a changing educational environment.

Jesus also shares his insights from his extensive history of service with WESTOP. Having served as the organization's President and continuing to contribute in various capacities today, Jesus discusses the importance of professional associations in fueling the advocacy efforts necessary to keep TRIO and GEAR UP strong.

Most importantly, Jesus joins us to provide actionable insights on how to effectively advocate for TRIO programs at both the local and federal levels. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or a student wanting to make a difference, he breaks down practical, meaningful ways to get involved in the movement and ensure these programs continue to thrive for years to come.

Community Announcement Links:

TRIO Nation: Your voice is working! While Congress is moving to protect TRIO funding for 2026, we must remain vigilant. Administrative shifts still threaten the stability of TRIO grants. Take action now: Call your Congressional representatives today. Thank them for their bipartisan support and urge them to ensure TRIO programs remain fully funded and operational without delay. Let them know…TRIO Works!

A heartfelt thanks to our individual donors and Patrons on Patreon

A huge thanks to our corporate sponsors

Cover Art and Voice Over Work

Cover Art: Raul Perez

Voice Over Ad for Longsdale Publishing and StudentAccess: Amelia Castaneda

Voice Over Ad for NOSOTROS Education Center: Karla Sandoval

The Let’s Talk TRIO Podcast Team

John Russell: Music Composer, Music Performer, Audio Engineer, and Post-Production Editor

Amelia Castaneda: Script Supervisor, Marketing Manager, Social Media Manager, and Producer

Juan M. Rivas: Executive Producer & Host

Follow us on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram

Visit the Let’s Talk TRIO Podcast Webpage

We’re taking the show to the 2026 IATP Conference at ISU! This episode is a vibrant "audio collage" featuring voices from TRIO programs across Idaho. We dive into the latest in student support, legislative advocacy, and the shared mission that keeps this community thriving.

Highlights include:

Are you a TRIO professional? Listen in to hear your colleagues' voices and get inspired for the year ahead!

Community Announcement Links:

TRIO Nation: Your voice is working! While Congress is moving to protect TRIO funding for 2026, we must remain vigilant. Administrative shifts still threaten the stability of TRIO grants. Take action now: Call your Congressional representatives today. Thank them for their bipartisan support and urge them to ensure TRIO programs remain fully funded and operational without delay. Let them know…TRIO Works!

A heartfelt thanks to our individual donors and Patrons on Patreon

A huge thanks to our corporate sponsors

Special Thanks to...

CSU Online Staff - Alysha Tarantino & Amy Quinn-Sparks

Cover Art and Voice Over Work

Cover Art: Raul Perez

Voice Over Ad for Longsdale Publishing and StudentAccess: Amelia Castaneda

Voice Over Ad for NOSOTROS Education Center: Karla Sandoval

The Let’s Talk TRIO Podcast Team

John Russell: Music Composer, Music Performer, Audio Engineer, and Post-Production Editor

Amelia Castaneda: Script Supervisor, Marketing Manager, Social Media Manager, and Producer

Juan M. Rivas: Executive Producer & Host

Follow us on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram

Amante’ Cunningham isn’t just talking about change ... he’s building it. A 2024 WKU graduate with a background in Social Media Marketing, Amante’ is leveraging his voice to champion TRIO programs across the Bluegrass State. In this conversation, we dive into his current role at Eastern Kentucky University and explore his deep-rooted commitment to raising awareness for college access. Tune in to hear how Amante’ is utilizing his marketing expertise and TRIO experience to transform his community and advocate for student success.  

Community Announcement Links:

TRIO Nation: Your voice is working! While Congress is moving to protect TRIO funding for 2026, we must remain vigilant. Administrative shifts still threaten the stability of TRIO grants. Take action now: Call your Congressional representatives today. Thank them for their bipartisan support and urge them to ensure TRIO programs remain fully funded and operational without delay. Let them know…TRIO Works!

A heartfelt thanks to our individual donors and Patrons on Patreon

A huge thanks to our corporate sponsors

Cover Art and Voice Over Work

Cover Art: Raul Perez

Voice Over Ad for Longsdale Publishing and StudentAccess: Amelia Castaneda

Voice Over Ad for NOSOTROS Education Center: Karla Sandoval

The Let’s Talk TRIO Podcast Team

John Russell: Music Composer, Music Performer, Audio Engineer, and Post-Production Editor

Amelia Castaneda: Script Supervisor, Marketing Manager, Social Manager, and Producer

Juan M. Rivas: Executive Producer & Host

Follow us on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram

Visit the Let’s Talk TRIO Podcast Webpage

What happens after the TRIO program ends and the professional hustle begins? Elijah Mason (formerly Sandoval) returns to the podcast for her second appearance to catch us up on her journey since graduating from CSU in Fall 2024.

Between her role as a Records Intern for the Arapahoe County District Attorney’s office, pursuing a Master’s at Capella University, and navigating the first year of marriage, Elijah offers a masterclass in managing big life transitions with grace (and a little bit of chaos).

Listen to Elijah’s first appearance ("Chaotic and Organized") here: https://letstalktrio.podbean.com/e/organized-chaos-elijah-sandoval-trio-student-support-services-participant-aac/

Community Announcement Links:

TRIO Nation: Your voice is working! While Congress is moving to protect TRIO funding for 2026, we must remain vigilant. Administrative shifts still threaten the stability of TRIO grants. Take action now: Call your Congressional representatives today. Thank them for their bipartisan support and urge them to ensure TRIO programs remain fully funded and operational without delay. Let them know…TRIO Works!

NCCU’S Annual Student Access & Success Conference Info

A heartfelt thanks to our individual donors and Patrons on Patreon

A huge thanks to our corporate sponsors

Cover Art and Voice Over Work

Cover Art: Raul Perez

Voice Over Ad for Longsdale Publishing and StudentAccess: Amelia Castaneda

Voice Over Ad for NOSOTROS Education Center: Karla Sandoval

The Let’s Talk TRIO Podcast Team

John Russell: Music Composer, Music Performer, Audio Engineer, and Post-Production Editor

Amelia Castaneda: Script Supervisor, Marketing Manager, Social Manager, and Producer

Juan M. Rivas: Executive Producer & Host

Follow us on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram

Visit the Let’s Talk TRIO Podcast Webpage

What does it take to lead a state-wide professional association while managing a university's TRIO programs? Join us as we welcome Bernadine Booky...the Director of TRIO Programs at New Mexico State University. With a deep-rooted history at NMSU - from earning her Bachelor’s and Master’s in Agricultural and Extension Education to her current leadership role - she brings a unique perspective on institutional growth and student advocacy.

Key Highlights:

Community Announcement Links:

TRIO Nation: Your voice is working! While Congress is moving to protect TRIO funding for 2026, we must remain vigilant. Administrative shifts still threaten the stability of TRIO grants. Take action now: Call your Congressional representatives today. Thank them for their bipartisan support and urge them to ensure TRIO programs remain fully funded and operational without delay. Let them know…TRIO Works!

NCCU’S Annual Student Access & Success Conference Info

A heartfelt thanks to our individual donors and Patrons on Patreon

A huge thanks to our corporate sponsors

Cover Art and Voice Over Work

Cover Art: Raul Perez

Voice Over Ad for Longsdale Publishing and StudentAccess: Amelia Castaneda

Voice Over Ad for NOSOTROS Education Center: Karla Sandoval

The Let’s Talk TRIO Podcast Team

John Russell: Music Composer, Music Performer, Audio Engineer, and Post-Production Editor

Amelia Castaneda: Script Supervisor, Marketing Manager, Social Manager, and Producer

Juan M. Rivas: Executive Producer & Host

Follow us on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram

Visit the Let’s Talk TRIO Podcast Webpage

What does it take to go from a first-generation college student to a doctoral graduate leading the very program that supported you? This week, we sit down with Dr. Kevin David Linton, Director of TRIO Student Support Services at Salem State University.

Dr. Linton takes us through the twists and turns of his educational path ... from navigating the cultural shift between private and public high schools to overcoming imposter syndrome at the University of New Hampshire. We discuss the "hidden curriculum" of post-secondary education, the reality of juggling a career while earning a Ph.D., and why he dedicated his life to opening doors for the next generation of students.

Community Announcement Links:

TRIO Nation: Your voice is working! While Congress is moving to protect TRIO funding for 2026, we must remain vigilant. Administrative shifts still threaten the stability of TRIO grants. Take action now: Call your Congressional representatives today. Thank them for their bipartisan support and urge them to ensure TRIO programs remain fully funded and operational without delay. Let them know…TRIO Works!

NCCU’S Annual Student Access & Success Conference Info

TRIO Day Celebrations:

A heartfelt thanks to our individual donors and Patrons on Patreon

A huge thanks to our corporate sponsors

Cover Art and Voice Over Work

Cover Art: Raul Perez

Voice Over Ad for Longsdale Publishing and StudentAccess: Amelia Castaneda

Voice Over Ad for NOSOTROS Education Center: Karla Sandoval

The Let’s Talk TRIO Podcast Team

John Russell: Music Composer, Music Performer, Audio Engineer, and Post-Production Editor

Amelia Castaneda: Script Supervisor, Marketing Manager, Social Manager, and Producer

Juan M. Rivas: Executive Producer & Host

What happens when a first-generation student doesn’t just beat the odds, but returns to lead the charge for others? In this episode, we sit down with Jefferson Clemmons, Director of the TRIO Educational Talent Search at Lone Star College–Tomball.

Jefferson opens up about the pivotal moments that shaped his path—from the discipline and leadership he forged in ROTC to his personal climb as a TRIO participant. Now a doctoral candidate, he shares the grit and grace required to navigate higher education as a "first." We discuss his journey through his bachelor's and master's programs and how he uses his extensive experience to help today’s students blueprint their own success.

Whether you’re a student looking for a roadmap or an educator looking for heart, Jefferson’s story is a masterclass in how structure, support, and self-belief can change the trajectory of a life.

Community Announcement Links:

TRIO Nation: Your voice is working! While Congress is moving to protect TRIO funding for 2026, we must remain vigilant. Administrative shifts still threaten the stability of TRIO grants. Take action now: Call your Congressional representatives today. Thank them for their bipartisan support and urge them to ensure TRIO programs remain fully funded and operational without delay. Let them know…TRIO Works!

NCCU Student Access & Success Conference

TRIO Day Celebrations:

A heartfelt thanks to our individual donors and Patrons on Patreon

A huge thanks to our corporate sponsors

Cover Art and Voice Over Work

Cover Art: Raul Perez

Voice Over Ad for Longsdale Publishing and StudentAccess: Amelia Castaneda

Voice Over Ad for NOSOTROS Education Center: Karla Sandoval

The Let’s Talk TRIO Podcast Team

John Russell: Music Composer, Music Performer, Audio Engineer, and Post-Production Editor

Amelia Castaneda: Script Supervisor, Marketing Manager, Social Manager, and Producer

Juan M. Rivas: Executive Producer & Host

Follow us on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram

Visit the Let’s Talk TRIO Podcast Webpage

Happy February, TRIO Nation! This month is a major milestone for our community as we celebrate National TRIO Day and the programs that change lives across the country.

To kick off the celebration, we are thrilled to welcome back Catherine Ybarra, Director of TRIO Upward Bound Math & Science at the College of the Sequoias. Catherine pulls back the curtain on her evolution from a first-year director to a seasoned leader. Tune in for a candid conversation on:

Song referenced:

”Se Oyen Varias Lenguas” by LOS DOS DE TAMAULIPAS

Community Announcement Links:

TRIO Nation: Your voice is working! While Congress is moving to protect TRIO funding for 2026, we must remain vigilant. Administrative shifts still threaten the stability of TRIO grants. Take action now: Call your Congressional representatives today. Thank them for their bipartisan support and urge them to ensure TRIO programs remain fully funded and operational without delay. Let them know…TRIO Works!

Find your Congressional Representative

NCCU 2026 TRIO Student Access and Success Conference

TRIO Day Celebration Resources:

A heartfelt thanks to our individual donors and Patrons on Patreon

A huge thanks to our corporate sponsors

Cover Art and Voice Over Work

Cover Art: Raul Perez

Voice Over Ad for Longsdale Publishing and StudentAccess: Amelia Castaneda

Voice Over Ad for NOSOTROS Education Center: Karla Sandoval

The Let’s Talk TRIO Podcast Team

John Russell: Music Composer, Music Performer, Audio Engineer, and Post-Production Editor

Amelia Castaneda: Script Supervisor, Marketing Manager, Social Manager, and Producer

Juan M. Rivas: Executive Producer & Host

Follow us on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram

Visit the Let’s Talk TRIO Podcast Webpage