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THE HARLAN COHEN PODCAST New York Times bestselling author Harlan Cohen has candid conversations with experts and influencers. Guests share their greatest victories, devastating setbacks, and most valuable advice to help listeners dream big and take action. Hosted by Harlan Cohen, New York Times bestselling author, speaker, and syndicated advice columnist. Harlan is the founder of Best First Year, and has over 1 million books in print. His live events, books, programs, and workshops have reached millions of people and changed countless lives. SUBSCRIBE ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@HelpMeHarlan TEXT HARLAN: 321-345-9070 INSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/HarlanCohen FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/HelpMeHarlan/ TWITTER: http://Twitter.com/HarlanCohen WEBSITE: https://www.HarlanCohen.com | https://www.BeforeCollegeTV.com
THE HARLAN COHEN PODCAST New York Times bestselling author Harlan Cohen has candid conversations with experts and influencers. Guests share their greatest victories, devastating setbacks, and most valuable advice to help listeners dream big and take action. Hosted by Harlan Cohen, New York Times bestselling author, speaker, and syndicated advice columnist. Harlan is the founder of Best First Year, and has over 1 million books in print. His live events, books, programs, and workshops have reached millions of people and changed countless lives. SUBSCRIBE ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@HelpMeHarlan TEXT HARLAN: 321-345-9070 INSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/HarlanCohen FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/HelpMeHarlan/ TWITTER: http://Twitter.com/HarlanCohen WEBSITE: https://www.HarlanCohen.com | https://www.BeforeCollegeTV.com
Episodes

Friday Mar 13, 2026
Drum Corps International World Championships - Walk & Talk with Harlan Cohen
Friday Mar 13, 2026
Friday Mar 13, 2026
Watch the full video version of the podcast here: https://youtu.be/U_Swp7u_N-I?si=Rr3LVK8jWo8PSgv-
I had the chance to attend the Drum Corps International World Championships. Student musicians from all over the country performed at Lucas Oil Stadium, and it was an incredible experience. While I was there, I walked around and spoke to students about their memorable experiences as part of DCI and why it's such a special community.
Check out DCI: https://www.dci.org/
Are you a parent of current or soon-to-be college student? Are you a student?
Join BEST FIRST YEAR, Harlan's College Success Coaching Community for High School & College Parents (and students)
Use code Pod15 at checkout and get 15% off a 12 or 18 month membership.
Tap here: https://courses.bestfirstyear.com/cou...
The Harlan Cohen Podcast is available on Spotify, Amazon, Apple Podcasts, Pandora, or wherever you listen to your podcasts.
Subscribe and listen to Harlan’s podcast here:
iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-harlan-cohen-podcast/id1531004466
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b5f3901f-d7b6-4f73-b183-8a5e10c4423a/the-harlan-cohen-podcast
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/28gSjxL3CmmL6U9lpDDlCA
Podbean: https://harlancohenpodcast.podbean.com/
SUBSCRIBE ON YOUTUBE: www.youtube.com/@HelpMeHarlan
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harlancohen/
TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@helpmeharlan?...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/harlan.cohen/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harlancohen
Twitter: https://x.com/HarlanCohen
Website: https://www.HarlanCohen.com
THE HARLAN COHEN PODCAST New York Times bestselling author Harlan Cohen has candid conversations with top experts, and leading influencers. Guests share their greatest victories, devastating setbacks, and most valuable advice to help listeners dream big and take action. Hosted by Harlan Cohen, New York Times bestselling author, and speaker. Harlan is the founder of Best First Year, and has over 1 million books in print. His live events, books, programs, and workshops have reached millions of people and changed countless lives.
Ask

Friday Feb 27, 2026
Friday Feb 27, 2026
I had an incredible conversation with Keith Jones, a Penn State career counselor, to talk what all college students should know about transitioning to a career after school. Keith breaks down LinkedIn strategy, interviews, and why 95% of companies now use Application Tracking Systems to screen resumes. He talks about the importance of relationships built freshman year (not senior year when it's too late). We cover essential resources like O*NET, The Muse, and free certifications from Amazon, Google, and more. Keith's philosophy? Position yourself so jobs chase you. If you're a student or parent, this conversation is packed with actionable advice you can use immediately.
* * * * * * * * * *
Are you a parent of current or soon-to-be college student? Are you a student?
Join BEST FIRST YEAR, Harlan's College Success Coaching Community for High School & College Parents (and students)
Use code Pod15 at checkout and get 15% off a 12 or 18 month membership.
Tap here: https://courses.bestfirstyear.com/courses/your-first-course
The Harlan Cohen Podcast is available on Spotify, Amazon, Apple Podcasts, Pandora, or wherever you listen to your podcasts.
Subscribe and listen to Harlan’s podcast here:
iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-harlan-cohen-podcast/id1531004466
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b5f3901f-d7b6-4f73-b183-8a5e10c4423a/the-harlan-cohen-podcast
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/28gSjxL3CmmL6U9lpDDlCA
Podbean: https://harlancohenpodcast.podbean.com/
SUBSCRIBE ON YOUTUBE: www.youtube.com/@HelpMeHarlan
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harlancohen/
TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@helpmeharlan?...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/harlan.cohen/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harlancohen
Twitter: https://x.com/HarlanCohen
Website: https://www.HarlanCohen.com
About Keith:
Keith Jones is a full-time career counselor at Penn State University and instructor of counselor education. He teaches "Effective Career Decision Making," a course focused on helping students navigate the college-to-career transition through self-exploration, skills development, and strategic networking. Keith presented to the entire Big Ten Conference on the effective use of artificial intelligence in career counseling and education. His approach emphasizes building genuine relationships, leveraging LinkedIn strategically, and starting career planning early.
Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction: Keith's Role
01:37 - Ikigai & Self-Discovery
03:00 - Skills-Focused Resume
06:09 - O*NET Career Resource
10:07 - LinkedIn Development
17:02 - Career Fairs & Connections
22:50 - Advice for Late Starters
27:39 - Unpaid Internships Strategy
32:39 - Approaching Mentorship
36:44 - ATS Systems & Skills-Based Hiring
51:00 - Course: Effective Career Decision Making
58:21 - The Fishing Analogy
1:17:15 - AI in Career Counseling
1:26:31 - Map Out Your Career Plan
1:31:05 - Use Career Services
Career Databases & Research
O*NET Online - https://www.onetonline.org/ (US Department of Labor occupational database with salary info, skills, job outlooks)
The Muse - https://www.themuse.com/ (Career advice, interview prep, company culture insights)
Resume & Application Tools
Jobscan - https://www.jobscan.co/ (ATS resume optimization tool - paid)
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/ (Professional networking & job search)
Indeed - https://www.indeed.com/ (Job search platform)
Micro-Internships & Experience
Parker Dewey - https://www.parkerdewey.com/ (Short-term paid professional projects for students)
Learning Platforms
LinkedIn Learning - https://www.linkedin.com/learning/ (Online courses & professional development)
Udemy - https://www.udemy.com/ (Online course marketplace)
Free Company Certification Programs
IBM - https://www.ibm.com/training (Free certification trainings)
Meta/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/business/learn (Free certification programs)
Amazon - https://aws.amazon.com/training/ (Free training & certifications)
AI Tools
NotebookLM - https://notebooklm.google.com/ (Google AI tool that converts documents/articles into podcast conversations)
Career Advice Creators
Jeff Su - https://www.jeffsu.org/ & YouTube (Informational interviews, resume tips, career advice)
Rosie McCarthy (Badass Careers) - https://www.badasscareers.com/ & YouTube (Career coaching, personal branding, LinkedIn strategies)
THE HARLAN COHEN PODCAST New York Times bestselling author Harlan Cohen has candid conversations with top experts, and leading influencers. Guests share their greatest victories, devastating setbacks, and most valuable advice to help listeners dream big and take action. Hosted by Harlan Cohen, New York Times bestselling author, and speaker. Harlan is the founder of Best First Year, and has over 1 million books in print. His live events, books, programs, and workshops have reached millions of people and changed countless lives.

Wednesday Feb 18, 2026
Wednesday Feb 18, 2026
Harlan Cohen breaks down the fundamental problem with college: schools prepare students academically but leave them completely unprepided for the emotional, social, financial, and professional transitions that make or break the college experience. Drawing from his own painful story of struggling, feeling lonely, and eventually transferring, Harlan reveals why so many high-achieving students arrive on campus overwhelmed, anxious, and blindsided by challenges no one warned them about. The episode introduces his core framework for navigating change through patients, places, and people, and makes the case that curiosity, belonging, and practicing discomfort are the real keys to a successful first year.
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Harlan Cohen is a leading expert on college readiness and success. He helps parents, students, and educators.
Check out his Best First Year College Readiness & Success program for Parents & Students:
🎓 https://courses.bestfirstyear.com/courses/your-first-course
Use code Pod15 at checkout and get 15% off a 12 or 18 month membership.
Check out his On-Demand Events:
🎓 https://courses.bestfirstyear.com/collections
The Harlan Cohen Podcast is available on Spotify, Amazon, Apple Podcasts, Pandora, or wherever you listen to your podcasts.
Subscribe and listen to Harlan’s podcast here:
iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-harlan-cohen-podcast/id1531004466
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b5f3901f-d7b6-4f73-b183-8a5e10c4423a/the-harlan-cohen-podcast
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/28gSjxL3CmmL6U9lpDDlCA
Podbean: https://harlancohenpodcast.podbean.com/
SUBSCRIBE ON YOUTUBE: www.youtube.com/@HelpMeHarlan
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harlancohen/
TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@helpmeharlan?...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/harlan.cohen/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harlancohen
Twitter: https://x.com/HarlanCohen
Website: https://www.HarlanCohen.com
THE HARLAN COHEN PODCAST New York Times bestselling author Harlan Cohen has candid conversations with top experts, and leading influencers. Guests share their greatest victories, devastating setbacks, and most valuable advice to help listeners dream big and take action. Hosted by Harlan Cohen, New York Times bestselling author, and speaker. Harlan is the founder of Best First Year, and has over 1 million books in print. His live events, books, programs, and workshops have reached millions of people and changed countless lives.

Tuesday Feb 10, 2026
The Career Success Formula - with Brandon Busteed (CEO of Edconic)
Tuesday Feb 10, 2026
Tuesday Feb 10, 2026
In this conversation with Brandon Busteed, founder of Edconic and former head of education research at Gallup, we explored what really matters when it comes to career success after college. Brandon shared groundbreaking findings from the Gallup-Purdue Index, revealing that only 22% of college graduates had a mentor who encouraged their goals and dreams. We discussed his own non-linear journey from Duke athlete to class president to entrepreneur, and how he learned to reframe failure as fuel for growth. Brandon emphasized that picking your manager is more important than picking your company, challenged students to look beyond Fortune 500 firms to small and medium-sized enterprises where they can make real impact, and urged everyone to focus on relationship-rich experiences and work-integrated learning during college. His advice is clear: success isn't just about the paycheck or the brand name. It's about doing meaningful work that uses your unique talents every single day.
* * * * * * * * * *
Are you a parent of current or soon-to-be college student? Are you a student?
Join BEST FIRST YEAR, Harlan's College Success Coaching Community for High School & College Parents (and students)
Use code Pod15 at checkout and get 15% off a 12 or 18 month membership.
Tap here: https://courses.bestfirstyear.com/courses/your-first-course
The Harlan Cohen Podcast is available on Spotify, Amazon, Apple Podcasts, Pandora, or wherever you listen to your podcasts.
Subscribe and listen to Harlan’s podcast here:
iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-harlan-cohen-podcast/id1531004466
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b5f3901f-d7b6-4f73-b183-8a5e10c4423a/the-harlan-cohen-podcast
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/28gSjxL3CmmL6U9lpDDlCA
Podbean: https://harlancohenpodcast.podbean.com/
SUBSCRIBE ON YOUTUBE: www.youtube.com/@HelpMeHarlan
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harlancohen/
TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@helpmeharlan?...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/harlan.cohen/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harlancohen
Twitter: https://x.com/HarlanCohen
Website: https://www.HarlanCohen.com
About Brandon:
Brandon Busteed, CEO of Edconic, is a leading expert on work-integrated learning. Edconic provides students with transformative industry-immersive experiences in partnership with iconic organizations.
Links:
Check out Edconic's industry-immersive experiences: https://edconic.com/
Brandon's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/busteed
Contributor / Forbes: https://www.forbes.com/sites/brandonbusteed/
Link to an article on the Gallup-Purdue Index Big 6 College Experiences: https://news.gallup.com/poll/182306/big-six-college-experiences-linked-life-preparedness.aspx
Chapters:
00:00:00 - Introduction
00:02:19 - Defining Success: Beyond Money and Titles
00:04:23 - The Gallup-Purdue Index: What Predicts Career Success
00:08:44 - Relationship-Rich Experiences in College
00:10:19 - Work-Integrated Learning: The Missing Link
00:12:17 - Pick the Professor, Not the Class
00:18:37 - Brandon's Non-Linear Career Journey
00:22:40 - Reframing Failure as Opportunity
00:28:19 - Learning to Be Motivated by Failure
00:34:55 - Starting Outside the Classroom: From Idea to Business
00:41:38 - Why Young Adults Need More Work Experience
00:43:35 - How to Explore Career Options Early
00:46:26 - Interview Question: What Are You Great At?
00:50:20 - The Most Important Question: Who's Your Manager?
00:54:42 - Manager Feedback Matters More Than You Think
00:56:32 - Small Companies vs. Fortune 500: Hidden Opportunities
01:01:00 - Closing Thoughts
THE HARLAN COHEN PODCAST New York Times bestselling author Harlan Cohen has candid conversations with top experts, and leading influencers. Guests share their greatest victories, devastating setbacks, and most valuable advice to help listeners dream big and take action. Hosted by Harlan Cohen, New York Times bestselling author, and speaker. Harlan is the founder of Best First Year, and has over 1 million books in print. His live events, books, programs, and workshops have reached millions of people and changed countless lives.

Friday Jan 16, 2026
Friday Jan 16, 2026
Months ago, I posted a reel encouraging students to try and ask their teachers to round up their grades if they were close to the next letter grade. High school teacher David Loudermilk saw an opportunity to use this idea to teach self-advocacy. In this conversation, Mr. Loudermilk and I discuss how he turned my controversial concept into a reality, requiring students to use argumentative writing skills (claim, evidence, reasoning) to make their case. We dive into why communication is such a critical skill students need, and how creating safe spaces for self-advocacy prepares young people for life's inevitable rejections and opportunities. A must-listen for educators and parents who want to help students find their voice.
* * * * * * * * * *
Are you a parent of current or soon-to-be college student? Are you a student?
Join BEST FIRST YEAR, Harlan's College Success Coaching Community for High School & College Parents (and students)
Use code Pod15 at checkout and get 15% off a 12 or 18 month membership.
Tap here: https://courses.bestfirstyear.com/courses/your-first-course
The Harlan Cohen Podcast is available on Spotify, Amazon, Apple Podcasts, Pandora, or wherever you listen to your podcasts.
Subscribe and listen to Harlan’s podcast here:
iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-harlan-cohen-podcast/id1531004466
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b5f3901f-d7b6-4f73-b183-8a5e10c4423a/the-harlan-cohen-podcast
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/28gSjxL3CmmL6U9lpDDlCA
Podbean: https://harlancohenpodcast.podbean.com/
SUBSCRIBE ON YOUTUBE: www.youtube.com/@HelpMeHarlan
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harlancohen/
TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@helpmeharlan?...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/harlan.cohen/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harlancohen
Twitter: https://x.com/HarlanCohen
Website: https://www.HarlanCohen.com
About Mr. Loudermilk
David Loudermilk is a social science teacher in Northern California. Before teaching high school, he taught middle school, served as a middle school athletic director, worked as a 1:1 paraprofessional in a high school/adult transition program for special needs students, and was a substitute teacher for K-12 classrooms. From 2020-2024, he was elected to serve as a board member for the Durham Unified School District in Durham, California.
Related videos: Life Tip 1033 - The Round Up Request Experiment: https://www.instagram.com/reels/DJ5Rh71vTU8/ College Tip 1578 - If You're a College Student Who Successfully Asked a Professor to Round Up https://www.instagram.com/reels/DSKwirLEcNm/
Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction
02:05 - Why This Experiment
03:25 - Points Controversy
07:22 - Building Trust
08:13 - Grade Grubber Myth
10:35 - Evidence-Based Approach
11:27 - Creating Safe Space
12:16 - Social Capital & Equity
15:54 - Worthiness & Advocacy
19:06 - The Process Explained
25:21 - AI Consequences
29:17 - Participation Numbers
30:29 - Email vs Face-to-Face
33:21 - Teacher Time Investment
37:23 - Student Feedback
42:19 - Grades vs Skills
43:00 - Best Buy Story
44:28 - Rejection Lessons
47:37 - Sharing Resources
49:24 - Full Circle Moment
51:08 - Outro
THE HARLAN COHEN PODCAST New York Times bestselling author Harlan Cohen has candid conversations with top experts, and leading influencers. Guests share their greatest victories, devastating setbacks, and most valuable advice to help listeners dream big and take action. Hosted by Harlan Cohen, New York Times bestselling author, and speaker. Harlan is the founder of Best First Year, and has over 1 million books in print. His live events, books, programs, and workshops have reached millions of people and changed countless lives.

Tuesday Dec 23, 2025
Tuesday Dec 23, 2025
I sat down with Michael Itzkowitz, director behind the College Scorecard. Michael shares his incredible journey from PhD student to working in the Obama administration, and now leading HEA where he's revolutionizing how we think about college value and ROI. We dive deep into the questions every family needs to ask: Is college still worth it? How do you evaluate schools beyond just "getting in"? And what happens when students graduate with $100,000+ in debt and a $50,000 starting salary? Michael breaks down how to actually use the College Scorecard, explains median earnings data, and helps us understand what graduation rates really mean.
* * * * * * * * * *
Are you a parent of current or soon-to-be college student? Are you a student?
Join BEST FIRST YEAR, Harlan's College Success Coaching Community for High School & College Parents (and students)
Use code Pod15 at checkout and get 15% off a 12 or 18 month membership.
Tap here: https://courses.bestfirstyear.com/courses/your-first-course
The Harlan Cohen Podcast is available on Spotify, Amazon, Apple Podcasts, Pandora, or wherever you listen to your podcasts.
Subscribe and listen to Harlan’s podcast here:
iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-harlan-cohen-podcast/id1531004466
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b5f3901f-d7b6-4f73-b183-8a5e10c4423a/the-harlan-cohen-podcast
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/28gSjxL3CmmL6U9lpDDlCA
Podbean: https://harlancohenpodcast.podbean.com/
SUBSCRIBE ON YOUTUBE: www.youtube.com/@HelpMeHarlan
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harlancohen/
TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@helpmeharlan?...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/harlan.cohen/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harlancohen
Twitter: https://x.com/HarlanCohen
Website: https://www.HarlanCohen.com
About Michael:
Michael Itzkowitz currently serves as Founder and President of the HEA Group, a higher education research and policy organization that focuses on turning higher education opportunities into real value for students and taxpayers. He brings over 15 years of federal education policy expertise, with his work regularly cited by major outlets including the New York Times, Washington Post, and Wall Street Journal. As a Presidential Appointee in the Obama Administration, he directed the College Scorecard—the largest federal higher education data release ever—and served as Deputy Chief of Staff in the Office of Postsecondary Education, helping oversee policy for $120 billion in annual federal student aid.
Links:
Follow Mike on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-itzkowitz-84786019/
Instagram: @theheagroup https://www.instagram.com/theheagroup/
College Scorecard - https://www.collegescorecard.ed.gov
The HEA Group - https://www.theheagroup.com/
Which College Majors Are Worth It?: https://www.theheagroup.com/blog/college-majors-worth-it California College Programs That Pay: https://collegefutures.org/golden-opportunities-programs-that-pay/
Chapters:
00:00 - Intro
04:09 - Rejection and Risk-Taking
06:15 - Working with Obama Administration
09:09 - How He Got His Job
14:28 - Long Game ROI Thinking
18:43 - Conference Networking Strategy
24:23 - Aligning Passion with Mentors
29:50 - Data Objectivity Discussion
35:36 - Is College Worth $400K?
41:29 - How to Research Colleges
58:03 - Understanding Graduation Rates
1:08:10 - Median Earnings Explained
1:12:08 - The $100K Debt Problem
1:17:07 - Financial Fitness Calculator
1:24:17 - Starting Salary Impact
1:29:31 - AI in Data Work
1:38:30 - Final Advice for Students
1:41:36 - HCA Mission and Wrap-Up
THE HARLAN COHEN PODCAST New York Times bestselling author Harlan Cohen has candid conversations with top experts, and leading influencers. Guests share their greatest victories, devastating setbacks, and most valuable advice to help listeners dream big and take action. Hosted by Harlan Cohen, New York Times bestselling author, and speaker. Harlan is the founder of Best First Year, and has over 1 million books in print. His live events, books, programs, and workshops have reached millions of people and changed countless lives.

Wednesday Nov 26, 2025
Jeff Selingo - What the Data Really Says About Dream Schools (Walk & Talk with Harlan)
Wednesday Nov 26, 2025
Wednesday Nov 26, 2025
In this episode, I had a great walk around Evanston, Illinois, with New York Times bestselling author Jeff Selingo to discuss his latest book, Dream School. We talked about why getting into a highly selective college isn't necessarily the key to long-term success and what the data actually shows about how students from less selective, smaller schools go on to build equally fulfilling careers. Jeff and I explored how students can define success on their own terms and why focusing on fit and experience often leads to better outcomes than chasing prestige. Whether you're a student figuring out your next step or a parent trying to support your child through the college search process, this conversation offers practical advice and a much-needed perspective shift.
* * * * * * * * * *
Are you a parent of current or soon-to-be college student? Are you a student?
Join BEST FIRST YEAR, Harlan's College Success Coaching Community for Parents & Students
Use code Pod25 at checkout and get $25 off your membership
Tap here: https://courses.bestfirstyear.com/courses/your-first-course
The Harlan Cohen Podcast is available on Spotify, Amazon, Apple Podcasts, Pandora, or wherever you listen to your podcasts.
Subscribe and listen to Harlan’s podcast here:
iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-harlan-cohen-podcast/id1531004466
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b5f3901f-d7b6-4f73-b183-8a5e10c4423a/the-harlan-cohen-podcast
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/28gSjxL3CmmL6U9lpDDlCA
Podbean: https://harlancohenpodcast.podbean.com/
SUBSCRIBE ON YOUTUBE: www.youtube.com/@HelpMeHarlan
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harlancohen/
TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@helpmeharlan?...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/harlan.cohen/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harlancohen
Twitter: https://x.com/HarlanCohen
Website: https://www.HarlanCohen.com
ABOUT JEFF:
Jeff Selingo is a New York Times bestselling author, special advisor and professor of practice to the president at Arizona State University, and co-host of the Future U. podcast. For more than 25 years, he's been at the forefront of higher education journalism and analysis, having served as the top editor of The Chronicle of Higher Education for 18 years.
Jeff is the author of four books, including several New York Times bestsellers. His most recent book, Dream School: Finding the College That's Right for You, was published in September 2025. The Chronicle of Higher Education His previous book, Who Gets In and Why: A Year Inside College Admissions, was named one of the Most Notable Books of 2020 by The New York Times.
Website: https://jeffselingo.com
Latest Book (Dream School): https://amzn.to/4p19N8h
Newsletter (Next): https://jeffselingo.com (sign up link)
Future U. Podcast: https://www.futureupodcast.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffselingo
X/Twitter: @jselingo
OTHER INTERVIEWS & MEDIA:
Smerconish Interview (CNN): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wtI82sfwqtU
Dream School Reference in The New Yorker: https://www.newyorker.com/news/the-lede/the-great-student-swap
NPR Story: https://www.npr.org/2025/10/09/nx-s1-5567124/nprs-book-of-the-day-jeff-selingo-dream-school
THE HARLAN COHEN PODCAST New York Times bestselling author Harlan Cohen has candid conversations with top experts, and leading influencers. Guests share their greatest victories, devastating setbacks, and most valuable advice to help listeners dream big and take action. Hosted by Harlan Cohen, New York Times bestselling author, and speaker. Harlan is the founder of Best First Year, and has over 1 million books in print. His live events, books, programs, and workshops have reached millions of people and changed countless lives.

Thursday Nov 13, 2025
How to Build a Standout Nursing Career - Dr. Patrick Hickey
Thursday Nov 13, 2025
Thursday Nov 13, 2025
In this episode, I talk with Dr. Patrick Hickey about his deep devotion to the nursing profession. From climbing the highest peak on every continent to earning an impressive list of credentials (RN, BSN, MS, MSN, DrPH, CNOR(E)), he shares experiences that have given him valuable insight and wisdom. As both an educator and philanthropist, he continues to serve as a light for others. We also discuss the differences between two-year and four-year nursing programs and what recruiters are really looking for on your resume.
* * * * * * * * * *
Are you a parent of current or soon-to-be college student? Are you a student? Join BEST FIRST YEAR, Harlan's College Success Coaching Community for Parents & Students
Use code Pod15 at checkout and get 15% off a 12 or 18 month membership (or join monthly and get 15% off your first month)
Tap here: https://courses.bestfirstyear.com/courses/your-first-course
The Harlan Cohen Podcast is available on Spotify, Amazon, Apple Podcasts, Pandora, or wherever you listen to your podcasts.
Subscribe and listen to Harlan’s podcast here:
iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-harlan-cohen-podcast/id1531004466
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b5f3901f-d7b6-4f73-b183-8a5e10c4423a/the-harlan-cohen-podcast
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Podbean: https://harlancohenpodcast.podbean.com/
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About Patrick
Dr. Patrick Hickey, originally from rural Ontario, began his career after a high school counselor encouraged him to pursue nursing. He earned his Nursing Diploma in Canada, then moved to Corpus Christi, Texas, where he worked in a Level 1 trauma center and earned his BSN. Later, in Columbia, SC, he worked in the Operating Room as a clinician, manager, and educator, while serving on the national board of AORN—helping develop the “Time-Out” safety protocol used in surgeries worldwide.
He went on to earn an MS, MSN, and Doctorate in Public Health, researching healthcare barriers for Hispanic populations with limited English proficiency. At the University of South Carolina, he taught for 15 years, leading international healthcare trips for students across medical disciplines. Now retired, he mentors students weekly and serves as USA Medical Director for International Service Learning (ISL).
A passionate traveler, Dr. Hickey and his wife have backpacked through 88 countries and he became the first nurse to climb the Seven Summits—reaching the highest peak on each continent. His book 7 Summits: A Nurse’s Quest to Conquer Mountaineering and Life chronicles his path in life, with all proceeds of book sales going to his scholarships.
As a philanthropist and Angel Pilot, he provides free flights for patients needing medical transport. In November 2025, he will launch his podcast, International Service Learning (ISL): Experiential Medical Education, featuring stories from students, faculty, and global healthcare leaders.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-hickey-ab69a94
Email: drh@islonline.org
International Service Learning Program: https://islonline.org/
Chapters
0:00 Introduction
01:18 Patrick's Path to Nursing
7:28 Finding Your Motivation
12:32 Essential Skills for Nurses
17:45 Nursing Specialties Explained
27:55 Hospital Dynamics & Teamwork
36:25 Choosing a Program and Finding a Job
56:27 Finding Mentors
1:03:19 International Service Learning
1:06:45 Mentorship & Spirituality
THE HARLAN COHEN PODCAST New York Times bestselling author Harlan Cohen has candid conversations with top experts, and leading influencers. Guests share their greatest victories, devastating setbacks, and most valuable advice to help listeners dream big and take action. Hosted by Harlan Cohen, New York Times bestselling author, and speaker. Harlan is the founder of Best First Year, and has over 1 million books in print. His live events, books, programs, and workshops have reached millions of people and changed countless lives.

Thursday Aug 21, 2025
Hacking College with Ned Laff and Scott Carlson
Thursday Aug 21, 2025
Thursday Aug 21, 2025
In this episode of The Harlan Cohen podcast, authors Ned Laff and Scott Carlson share a fresh approach to navigating college that helps students learn life skills that will help them graduate, build a network of mentors, get a job, and succeed at life.
During my conversation with Ned and Scott, we talk about how college isn't a linear path to a career—it's an opportunity to figure out who you are, how you want to live, and what kind of life actually feels good to you. We explore how to "hack" the college experience and reframe it as a creative, human, and sometimes messy journey. The goal? Less stress, more meaning. And hopefully, a little clarity along the way. Be sure to get a copy of Hacking College (the audiobook is fantastic too).
About Scott:
Scott Carlson is a senior writer at The Chronicle of Higher Education who explores where higher education is headed. Since 1999, he has covered a range of issues for the publication: college management and finance, facilities, campus planning, energy, sustainability, libraries, work-force development, the value of a college degree, and other subjects. He writes the twice-monthly column The Edge, and he is the author of Hacking College: Why the Major Doesn’t Matter — and What Really Does. Carlson has won awards from the Education Writers Association and is a frequent speaker at colleges and conferences around the country. His work has also appeared in The Baltimore Sun and Dwell, among other publications. He is a graduate of the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities.
Homepage on The Chronicle: https://www.chronicle.com/author/scott-carlson
Scott’s column, The Edge: https://www.chronicle.com/newsletter/the-edge
Scott’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-carlson-4a235a5/
Email: scott.carlson@chronicle.com
About Ned:
Dr. Ned Scott Laff has over 35 years of experience in college and university settings in administrative and faculty roles. He has worked in curriculum development, program assessment, general education review and revision, self-designed majors, and developing centers that integrate advising, mentoring, and career development. He was awarded the Civic Engagement Award from The Washington Center for his work in service- and community-based learning. He has broad interests in improving the quality of undergraduate education and revitalizing the liberal arts. He has a special interest in the role mentoring plays in helping students design and integrate their educational, professional, and personal goals into a successful undergraduate education.
Ned’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ned-laff-ph-d-59ab8722/
Ned’s email: ned.laff@gmail.com
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Are you a parent of current or soon-to-be college student? Are you a student?
Join BEST FIRST YEAR, Harlan's College Success Coaching Community for Parents & Students
Use code Pod25 at checkout and get $25 off your membership
Tap here: https://courses.bestfirstyear.com/courses/your-first-course
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Get the legal forms you need to project your 18-year-old student. Download Mama Bear legal forms (use Code Harlan20 and get 20% off). Here's the link: https://www.mamabearlegalforms.com/youngadult?oid=1&affid=175&source_id=yapoa&sub1=harlan20
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The Harlan Cohen Podcast is available on Spotify, Amazon, Apple Podcasts, Pandora, or wherever you listen to your podcasts.
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Subscribe and listen to Harlan’s podcast here:
iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-harlan-cohen-podcast/id1531004466
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b5f3901f-d7b6-4f73-b183-8a5e10c4423a/the-harlan-cohen-podcast
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/28gSjxL3CmmL6U9lpDDlCA
Podbean: https://harlancohenpodcast.podbean.com/
_________________________
SUBSCRIBE ON YOUTUBE: www.youtube.com/@HelpMeHarlan
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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harlancohen
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Website: https://www.HarlanCohen.com
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THE HARLAN COHEN PODCAST New York Times bestselling author Harlan Cohen has candid conversations with top experts, and leading influencers. Guests share their greatest victories, devastating setbacks, and most valuable advice to help listeners dream big and take action. Hosted by Harlan Cohen, New York Times bestselling author, and speaker. Harlan is the founder of Best First Year, and has over 1 million books in print. His live events, books, programs, and workshops have reached millions of people and changed countless lives.

Thursday Jul 17, 2025
Thursday Jul 17, 2025
Are you a parent of current or soon-to-be college student? Are you a student?
Join BEST FIRST YEAR, Harlan's College Success Coaching Community for Parents & Students
Use code Pod25 at checkout and get $25 off your membership
Tap here: https://courses.bestfirstyear.com/courses/your-first-course
The Harlan Cohen Podcast is available on Spotify, Amazon, Apple Podcasts, Pandora, or wherever you listen to your podcasts.
Subscribe and listen to Harlan’s podcast here:
iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-harlan-cohen-podcast/id1531004466
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b5f3901f-d7b6-4f73-b183-8a5e10c4423a/the-harlan-cohen-podcast
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/28gSjxL3CmmL6U9lpDDlCA
Podbean: https://harlancohenpodcast.podbean.com/
SUBSCRIBE ON YOUTUBE: www.youtube.com/@HelpMeHarlan
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harlancohen/
TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@helpmeharlan?...
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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harlancohen
Twitter: https://x.com/HarlanCohen
Website: https://www.HarlanCohen.com
About CL Lindsay:
CL Lindsay is an expert in student discipline and higher education law. He's spent the last 25 years working with students and consulting with colleges about their legal rights and responsibilities. He has given more than 1500 invited lectures at colleges, universities, high schools, and military bases across the country. He graduated from Denison University in 1993 and received a law degree from the University of Michigan in 1996. He's currently serving as the Title IX Coordinator and the Deputy Office of Civil Rights Compliance Coordinator at DeSales University in Center Valley, Pennsylvania.
CL Lindsay’s book: Sex, Speech, Selfies, and Getting Smashed: Critical Legal Issues for College Students is designed to help readers navigate their higher education experience with safety and the law in mind. The book introduces foundational legal concepts, uncovers the legal basis for many college campus policies, and reviews critical rules and regulations related to speech, sex, technology, drugs, alcohol, and parties. Check it out here:
Pre-college legal checklist: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1iD6k2i6b5K23JRDGvrNZMAwh7yJTPMp1/view?usp=sharing
Chapters:
00:00 Intro
11:13 Being Accused of Using AI
41:31 FERPA and HIPAA waivers
49:12 Hazing
1:05:11 When should you talk to a lawyer?
1:18:52 Cyberbullying
1:21:05 Fake IDs
1:24:59 Victim of Hate Speech
1:27:42 Public vs. Private College
1:33:47 Outro
THE HARLAN COHEN PODCAST New York Times bestselling author Harlan Cohen has candid conversations with top experts, and leading influencers. Guests share their greatest victories, devastating setbacks, and most valuable advice to help listeners dream big and take action. Hosted by Harlan Cohen, New York Times bestselling author, and speaker. Harlan is the founder of Best First Year, and has over 1 million books in print. His live events, books, programs, and workshops have reached millions of people and changed countless lives.
