Scholar Scoop

The National Society of Collegiate Scholars
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Welcome to Scholar Scoop! This is where conversations inspire possibilities. Every episode, we speak with people who have changed my life to help you navigate yours. From college, career, to life. Glad you’re here.

  1. 12/16/2025

    Beyond Grad School: Dr. Mary Ashlock on Leadership, Communication Skills, and Building a Meaningful Career

    In this heartfelt and wisdom-packed episode of Scholar Scoop, host Steve Loflin reconnects with longtime friend, mentor, and respected communication scholar Dr. Mary Z. Ashlock, Professor of Communication at the University of Louisville. Together, they take listeners on a candid journey through graduate school, professional growth, and the foundational skills every student needs to thrive in today’s world. From deciding whether grad school is right for you, to developing communication and leadership skills, to navigating post-pandemic challenges on campus, this episode is full of practical advice, personal stories, and real encouragement for anyone building a life and career of purpose. In this conversation, you’ll learn: How to decide if graduate school is the right next stepWhy communication and leadership skills matter in every careerThe power of mentorship and saying “yes” to unexpected opportunitiesWhy your academic and career path won’t be a straight line, and why that’s okayHow student involvement builds confidence, networks, and employable skillsTips for connecting with professors and securing strong recommendation lettersWhy soft skills are actually core skills essential to personal and professional successWhether you're a student weighing your next move, a recent graduate charting your path, an educator supporting learners, or a professional seeking growth, Dr. Ashlock’s stories and insights offer clarity, direction, and inspiration. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation filled with heart, laughter, and decades of experience in helping students succeed. Follow Mary on Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook @UofLComm

    28 min

  2. 12/02/2025

    Unlocking Your Genius: Alan Gregerman on Curiosity, Purpose, and Why Ignorance Can Be Your Superpower

    What if the key to your success isn’t what you already know, but what you don’t know yet? In this inspiring episode of Scholar Scoop, host Steve Loflin sits down with bestselling author, consultant, and innovation expert Alan Gregerman. They talk about what it really means to unlock your genius, no matter your age, major, or background. Alan shares powerful insights from his books Surrounded by Geniuses and The Wisdom of Ignorance, explaining why curiosity, humility, and embracing the unknown are essential skills for students, parents, and professionals navigating an unpredictable world. In this conversation, you’ll learn: Why every person has genius within them and how to unlock itHow the 99% Rule can help you generate breakthrough ideasHow to use curiosity, connection, and purpose to shape your futureThe importance of strangers, diverse perspectives, and “fresh eyes” in creating innovationWhether you're a student charting your path, a parent supporting someone you love, or a leader navigating constant change, this episode will challenge and inspire you to think differently. Tune in and unlock the genius in you. Learn more about Greg and follow him on LinkedIn: https://alangregerman.com/about-alan/

    36 min

  3. 11/18/2025

    Improvising Through Uncertainty: Leadership, Growth, and the Power of Saying Yes with Jordana Cole

    What does improv have to do with leadership, and how can saying “yes” more often transform your life? In this episode of Scholar Scoop, host Steve Loflin sits down with Jordana Cole, a global learning and development leader, certified coach, and proud NSCS alumna whose career has been shaped by curiosity, courage, and connection. From her early days managing 30 interns at just 23 years old to her upcoming TEDx talk on improv and leadership, Jordana shares stories that remind us that growth comes from leaning into uncertainty. In this episode: What leadership really looks like (hint: it’s an action, not a title)How improv can teach us resilience, collaboration, and confidenceWhy saying yes can unlock new opportunities, even when you’re scaredThe power of mentorship, creativity, and embracing the unknownIf you’ve ever wondered how to become a more authentic leader, overcome self-doubt, or bring a little more joy into serious work, this episode is for you.

    35 min

  4. 11/04/2025

    Purpose and Impact: Andrew Gaeckle on Entrepreneurship, Leadership & Empowering Women in Business (Ep. 17)

    What happens when a student leader turns his college experience into a career dedicated to empowering others? In this episode of Scholar Scoop, host Steve Loflin sits down with Andrew Gaeckle, a nationally recognized entrepreneur and change-maker who now serves as a leader at the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC). From growing up across the country and serving as Student Body President at the University of South Carolina, to surviving a life-changing event and building programs that support women founders and students from HBCUs, Andrew’s journey is all about resilience, service, and using business as a force for good. You’ll learn: The surprising lessons that shaped Andrew’s leadership pathHow college involvement and mentorship can open unexpected doorsThe story behind his passion for supporting women & minority entrepreneursPractical advice for students pursuing leadership, business, or serviceWhether you’re a student dreaming big, an alum looking to give back, or an aspiring entrepreneur, Andrew’s story will remind you that leadership is less about titles—and more about impact. LINKS & RESOURCES: - Learn more about WBENC: https://www.wbenc.org/ - Follow Andrew Gaeckle on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/agaeckle

    32 min

  5. 10/21/2025

    Leading with Heart: Dr. Stacy Jones on Student Success, Campus Resources, and Finding Your Own Path (Ep. 16)

    What does it take to create a college experience where every student feels supported, seen, and empowered? In this episode of Scholar Scoop, host Steve Loflin sits down with Dr. Stacy L. Jones, Dean of Students and Assistant Vice President at The University of Alabama, where she’s been helping students thrive for more than 30 years. Dr. Jones shares her incredible journey from starting out in the medical field to finding her calling in student affairs, and the lessons she’s learned about resilience, connection, and purpose. They discuss: - How to take initiative and build meaningful relationships on campus - The importance of balancing parental influence with student independence - Essential campus resources students should know about (like Bama Cares and Student Care & Well-Being) - Why exploring your interests matters more than sticking to “the plan” Whether you’re a student navigating your college journey or a parent supporting one, this episode is full of wisdom, warmth, and encouragement from one of higher education’s most inspiring leaders. Learn more about student support and follow Dr. Stacy on LinkedIn: https://instagram.com/@drjua www.linkedin.com/in/stacy-j-650b592

    34 min

  6. 10/07/2025

    College Confidence 101: Evan Giokas on Finding Your Fit, Transfers, and Navigating Admissions (Ep. 15)

    Choosing a college isn’t just about rankings, it’s about alignment, authenticity, and knowing yourself. In this episode of Scholar Scoop, host Steve Loflin sits down with Evan Giokas, founder of College Confidence Coach, to explore how students can navigate the admissions process with clarity and confidence. Evan shares his personal story, from transferring universities to launching a coaching business that helps high-school and first-generation students find their best-fit colleges. Together, Steve and Evan dive into: - How to handle the stigma around transferring schools and turn it into an advantage - The importance of internal self-validation when making college decisions - Why community college can be a powerful and affordable stepping-stone - Tools like YouScience and Kolbe assessments for understanding your strengths - How parents can support—without steering—the decision-making process If you’re a high-school student, parent, or educator helping someone prepare for college, this episode offers practical advice to make the journey more intentional and less stressful. Learn more about the College Confidence Coach and follow Evan on LinkedIn: https://www.thecccoach.com/evans-journey https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-giokas-56443746

    35 min

  7. 09/23/2025

    From Setbacks to Success: Garrett Mintz on Mentorship, Authenticity, and Building Ambition in Motion (Ep. 14)

    What happens when your college journey takes an unexpected turn? For Garrett Mintz, Founder & CEO of Ambition in Motion, getting arrested as a freshman at Indiana University was the wake-up call that changed everything. In this episode of Scholar Scoop, host Steve Loflin sits down with Garrett to talk about how setbacks can open new doors, why authentic mentorship is transformative, and how taking initiative can shape your career. From selling drugs in high school to building a company that connects students with mentors and executives, Garrett’s story is a testament to resilience, growth, and the power of community. You’ll hear insights on horizontal mentorship, the importance of curiosity, and how to build meaningful connections that fuel both personal and professional success. This episode will inspire you to embrace your authentic self, seek mentorship, and keep moving forward no matter what obstacles you face. Learn more about Ambition in Motion and follow Garrett here: https://ambition-in-motion.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/garrettmintz

    42 min

  8. 09/09/2025

    Taking Risks & Redefining Leadership: Lindsay Rodman on College, the Marine Corps, and Career Courage (Ep. 13)

    In this episode, host Steve Loflin sits down with Marine Corps veteran, attorney, and national security expert Lindsay Rodman to get some Scholar Scoop about taking risks, finding your path, and leading with courage. From Duke University to Harvard Law, from serving as NLC President at NSCS to introducing General Colin Powell at the society’s 20th anniversary, Lindsay’s journey is a masterclass in resilience and bold decision-making. She shares how saying “yes” to opportunities—even when they felt out of reach—shaped her life and career, ultimately leading her from military service to the White House and beyond. Listeners will gain insights on: Why embracing risk and battling imposter syndrome can open unexpected doorsHow board and leadership experiences as a student prepare you for real-world impactThe importance of mentorship and trusted advisors in shaping your futureLessons from military service that apply to career and personal growthWhether you’re a student, recent graduate, or mentor, Lindsay’s story will inspire you to lead authentically, pursue big goals, and create your own definition of success. Learn more about Lindsay Rodman: https://lindsayrodman.com/

    45 min
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Welcome to Scholar Scoop! This is where conversations inspire possibilities. Every episode, we speak with people who have changed my life to help you navigate yours. From college, career, to life. Glad you’re here.

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  • Creator
    The National Society of Collegiate Scholars
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    21
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Scholar Scoop
  • Show Website
    Scholar Scoop