Kelly Kellem joins Blanka Falk to discuss the complexities of college funding and how to navigate them effectively. They highlight the importance of accurate college funding information, debunk common myths about costs, and emphasize avoiding financial aid mistakes. The conversation covers choosing colleges based on financial fit, negotiating for more aid, and exploring alternative payment strategies. Kelly shares scholarship resources, like Bold.org, and offers insights on minimizing parental debt. They also discuss factors affecting aid amounts, the risks of using home equity, and the necessity of thorough research. The episode concludes by evaluating the cost vs. quality of education and the debate on waiting for free college.

(0:00) Introduction and background with Kelly Kellem

(1:59) The importance of college funding information

(2:29) Debunking myths about college costs

(3:41) Avoiding financial aid mistakes

(4:30) Choosing the right college for financial fit

(7:31) Negotiating for more financial aid

(11:15) Alternative college payment strategies

(15:38) Scholarship resources: Bold.org

(17:34) Minimizing parental debt burden for college

(20:36) Factors affecting financial aid amounts

(22:10) Risks of using home equity for college funding

(24:54) The necessity of financial research and advice

(26:32) Comparing long-term costs of private vs. public colleges

(30:11) The debate on waiting for free college

(32:21) Understanding college expenses

(34:23) Evaluating the cost vs. quality of education

(36:23) Seeking assistance with college funding

(37:47) Episode wrap-up and call to action