IN PROGRESS because we're always under construction.

Matthew McClain and Roberto Aguilar

Life isn’t about the finish line; it’s about the journey. Join school counselors Matthew and Roberto for In Progress because we're always under construction, a podcast where we peel back the layers of our guests' daily lives. We move beyond the highlight reel to ask the real question: What are you building, learning, or overcoming right now? Tune in for authentic conversations about the beautiful, messy, and important things that are currently "in progress."

Episodes

  1. Jun 27

    IN PROGRESS w/Matthew&Roberto: How do you Conference? Tips

    Join Matthew and Roberto as they share practical strategies, both personal and from listeners, honed over years of navigating the busy conference halls of ASCA. Discover how intentional networking, planning your sessions, and embracing the full experience can turn an exhausting event into a cup-filling, game-changing opportunity. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned conference veteran, you'll come away with fresh ideas to maximize your growth and connections—so your professional development doesn’t just feel like work, but becomes an energizing journey of purpose and community. Key Topics The importance of intentional networking and making meaningful connectionsPlanning your conference schedule to maximize learning and reduce overwhelmPractical logistics: accommodations, packing, and timing tipsEmbracing the full conference experience, including the exhibit hall and social eventsSelf-care routines before, during, and after the conferenceLeveraging social media to connect before and after the eventTips for extroverts and introverts to get the most out of the conferenceIntegrating conference learnings into your professional practiceThe significance of building community and sustaining relationshipsPost-conference reflection and maintaining connections Email us at: mateoyrobertoinprogress@gmail.com Follow Matthew Instagram:@counselor.mcclain Follow Roberto Instagram: @raaggie Linktree: linktr.ee/raaggie

    51 min

  2. May 25

    IN PROGRESS w/ Eric Waldo: Empowering Education and Leadership with Eric Waldo

    Join Matthew and Roberto as we sit down with special guest Eric Waldo, a passionate advocate for education, mental health, and leadership development, sharing insights from his work with Mrs. Obama and innovative projects on AI in education. Discover how authenticity, vulnerability, and cultural pride can inspire the next generation to achieve their potential. Connect with Eric at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericwaldo/⁠⁠ Email us at: mateoyrobertoinprogress@gmail.com Follow Matthew Instagram:@counselor.mcclain Follow Roberto Instagram: @raaggie Linktree: linktr.ee/raaggie Main Topics & Insights: Eric Waldo’s journey from working with Mrs. Obama to implementing AI tools in educationThe importance of authenticity, vulnerability, and relatability in leadershipStories of Mrs. Obama’s growth mindset and her emphasis on resilienceThe critical role school counselors play in student well-being and long-term successAddressing disparities in college access and persistence, especially for first-generation and low-income studentsThe power of cultural identity and diversity as strengths in education and leadershipInnovations in AI to support counselors, students, and college decision-makingThe necessity of teaching digital citizenship and ethical AI use for studentsThe ongoing progress in mental health awareness and its integration into education systemsThe significance of being present and grounded amidst busy schedulesMrs. Obama’s Reach Higher CampaignAmerican School Counselor Association (ASCA)Michelle Obama’s Memoir "Becoming"AI in Education ProjectsCultural Identity and Diversity ResourcesLinkedInTwitter Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction to Eric Waldo and his work with Mrs. Obama02:00 - Hot takes on everyday life and cultural insights05:19 - Eric’s work on reaching and supporting students through Michelle Obama’s initiatives09:25 - The evolution of college success initiatives and addressing imposter syndrome11:44 - Mrs. Obama’s vulnerability and authentic storytelling in inspiring students13:36 - The impact of school counselors in nurturing student potential17:09 - Challenges faced by school counselors and how to improve visibility and support20:00 - The importance of growth mindset and inclusive narratives about college access22:17 - Celebrating cultural identity and diversity in America’s Latino communities25:16 - Exploring Latino masculinity, culture, and shared heritage27:30 - Current projects, including AI tools supporting college financing and student decision-making30:01 - Future of AI in education and counseling support33:09 - Teaching digital literacy, ethics, and responsible AI use34:39 - Practicing presence amid a busy life and embracing ongoing progress36:06 - Final reflections on the vital role of school counselors and educators38:36 - Closing thoughts with inspiring quotes about learning and life Thank you for listening! Embrace authenticity, support mental health, and continue shaping future leaders.

    52 min

  3. Apr 24

    IN PROGRESS w/ Ryan Marshall: 7 Hot Takes for School Counselors: Advocacy, Boundaries, and Support

    Join Matthew, Roberto and special guest Ryan Marshall as they explore the multifaceted world of school counseling, emphasizing advocacy, boundaries, grief, and building supportive networks. This episode offers deep insights into the emotional and professional journeys of educators dedicated to student success. Connect with Ryan at ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-marshall-755029160/⁠ Email us at: mateoyrobertoinprogress@gmail.com Follow Matthew Instagram:@counselor.mcclain Follow Roberto Instagram: @raaggie Linktree: linktr.ee/raaggie Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Connections 17:09 Hot Takes on Counseling and Education 26:11 Passion Areas in School Counseling 34:03 Advocacy and Support Networks 40:16 Recognizing Limits and Setting Boundaries 44:04 The Importance of Therapy and Support 46:07 Connecting with Students and Building Relationships 50:13 Navigating Grief and Providing Support 54:11 Celebrating Connections and Professional Growth 01:05:25 Inspiration from Passionate People 01:08:27 The Importance of Grief and Loss Conversations 01:10:51 Building Connections and Relationships

    1h 12m
  4. IN PROGRESS w/ Steve Sharp: The Power of Curiosity in School Leadership Building

    Mar 13

    IN PROGRESS w/ Steve Sharp: The Power of Curiosity in School Leadership Building

    Join Matthew, Roberto, and special guest Steve Sharp as they explore leadership, advocacy, mental health, and the power of curiosity in education. This engaging conversation offers insights into personal growth, systemic change, and the importance of relationships in school counseling. Connect with Steve Shap at: https://linktr.ee/stvsharp Email us at: mateoyrobertoinprogress@gmail.com Follow Matthew Instagram:@counselor.mcclain Follow Roberto Instagram: @raaggie Linktree: linktr.ee/raaggie Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Steve Sharp 02:58 Hot Takes and Personal Insights 06:12 Steve's Career and Contributions 12:05 Reflections on Relationships and Advocacy 17:50 The Importance of Curiosity in Leadership 26:58 Embracing Vulnerability and Collectivism 28:51 Navigating Global and Domestic Concerns 30:45 The Role of Leadership in Education 32:44 Finding Hope Amidst Challenges 35:09 Personal Practices for Mental Well-being 39:15 In Progress: Building Better Systems 43:11 Creating Spaces for Leadership and Growth resources: Redesign Schools to be Anti-Racist - https://www.corwin.com/books/designing-antiracism-281092Lies Worth Living: The Zero Suicide Approach - https://www.corwin.com/books/lives-worth-living-28107650+ Tech Tools for School Counselors - https://www.corwin.com/books/50-tech-tools-263015

    53 min
  5. IN PROGRESS Intro (National School Counseling Week!)

    Feb 3

    IN PROGRESS Intro (National School Counseling Week!)

    Meet Matthew & Roberto In Progress, because we are always under construction, and hear about what we currently have in progress for this new podcast and why we are excited to celebrate National School Counseling Week. Email us at: mateoyrobertoinprogress@gmail.com Follow Matthew Instagram:@counselor.mcclain Follow Roberto Instagram: @raaggie Linktree: linktr.ee/raaggie

    34 min
  • 5 Episodes

About

Life isn’t about the finish line; it’s about the journey. Join school counselors Matthew and Roberto for In Progress because we're always under construction, a podcast where we peel back the layers of our guests' daily lives. We move beyond the highlight reel to ask the real question: What are you building, learning, or overcoming right now? Tune in for authentic conversations about the beautiful, messy, and important things that are currently "in progress."

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