Let’s Talk TRIO

Juan Rivas, Amelia Castañeda, John Russell
  • 5.0 (8)
  • EDUCATION
  • UPDATED DAILY

A podcast dedicated to the TRIO programs across the United States and its territories. TRIO programs are federally funded outreach initiatives that promote college access, equity, and success. The podcast highlights stories from staff, participants, alumni, and advocates from various TRIO programs (Educational Talent Search, Upward Bound, Upward Bound Math/Science, Veteran’s Upward Bound, Student Support Services, McNair Program, Educational Opportunity Centers).

  1. NOV 6

    FIRST-GEN RAMS (4 of 4): Maria de Jesus, CSU Student

    In this special edition limited series, the Let's Talk TRIO podcast is proud to feature first-gen voices at Colorado State University. This episode was made possible in collaboration with Colorado State University's First-Generation Student Organization (FGSO) and the TRIO Programs. In this episode we feature Maria de Jesus, a student at Colorado State University studying Human Development and Family Studies. Listen as Maria shares her first-gen experience. Community Announcement Links: TRIO Nation - Call your congressional representatives to defend TRIO! The most recent proposed budget aims to eliminate TRIO programs. Alumni, participants, and advocates are encouraged to reach out to their senators and representatives. Let them know…TRIO Works! Find your Congressional Representative   NCCU 2026 TRIO Student Access and Success Conference   A heartfelt thanks to our individual donors and Patrons on Patreon Dr. Jamie Motley Dr. Ryan Barone Dr. Jeff Nepute Angelica Vialpando Angelica Valdez Rosario Riley Eric LaMaster Jeff Kahlden Felicia Rivera Jaded Electronics A huge thanks to our corporate sponsors TRIOjoblist.com NOSOTROS Education Center (NEC) TheTRIOstore.com powered by Proforma Longsdale Publishing StudentAccess 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

    35 min

  2. NOV 6

    FIRST-GEN RAMS (3 of 4): Janeth Gurrola, Student at Colorado State University

    In this special edition limited series, the Let's Talk TRIO podcast is proud to feature first-gen voices at Colorado State University. This episode was made possible in collaboration with Colorado State University's First-Generation Student Organization (FGSO) and the TRIO Programs. In this episode we feature Janeth Gurrola, a student at Colorado State University. Listen as Janeth shares her first-gen experience.   Community Announcement Links: TRIO Nation - Call your congressional representatives to defend TRIO! The most recent proposed budget aims to eliminate TRIO programs. Alumni, participants, and advocates are encouraged to reach out to their senators and representatives. Let them know…TRIO Works! Find your Congressional Representative   NCCU 2026 TRIO Student Access and Success Conference   A heartfelt thanks to our individual donors and Patrons on Patreon Dr. Jamie Motley Dr. Ryan Barone Dr. Jeff Nepute Angelica Vialpando Angelica Valdez Rosario Riley Eric LaMaster Jeff Kahlden Felicia Rivera Jaded Electronics   A huge thanks to our corporate sponsors TRIOjoblist.com NOSOTROS Education Center (NEC) TheTRIOstore.com powered by Proforma Longsdale Publishing StudentAccess   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

    22 min

  3. NOV 5

    FIRST-GEN RAMS (2 of 4): Odeth Tomas Sarat, Student at Colorado State University

    In this special edition limited series, the Let's Talk TRIO podcast is proud to feature first-gen voices at Colorado State University. This episode was made possible in collaboration with Colorado State University's First-Generation Student Organization (FGSO) and the TRIO Programs. In this episode we feature Odeth Tomas Sarat, a student at Colorado State University. Listen as Odeth shares her first-gen experience.   Community Announcement Links: TRIO Nation - Call your congressional representatives to defend TRIO! The most recent proposed budget aims to eliminate TRIO programs. Alumni, participants, and advocates are encouraged to reach out to their senators and representatives. Let them know…TRIO Works! Find your Congressional Representative   NCCU 2026 TRIO Student Access and Success Conference   A heartfelt thanks to our individual donors and Patrons on Patreon Dr. Jamie Motley Dr. Ryan Barone Dr. Jeff Nepute Angelica Vialpando Angelica Valdez Rosario Riley Eric LaMaster Jeff Kahlden Felicia Rivera Jaded Electronics   A huge thanks to our corporate sponsors TRIOjoblist.com NOSOTROS Education Center (NEC) TheTRIOstore.com powered by Proforma Longsdale Publishing StudentAccess   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

    31 min

  4. NOV 4

    FIRST-GEN RAMS (1 of 4): Delilah Lopez, Graduate Student at CSU

    In this special edition limited series, the Let's Talk TRIO podcast is proud to feature first-gen voices at Colorado State University. This episode was made possible in collaboration with Colorado State University's First-Generation Student Organization (FGSO) and the TRIO Programs. In this episode we feature Delilah Lopez, a graduate student at Colorado State University studying the Impact Master's in Business Administration. Listen as Delilah shares her first-gen experience. Community Announcement Links: TRIO Nation - Call your congressional representatives to defend TRIO! The most recent proposed budget aims to eliminate TRIO programs. Alumni, participants, and advocates are encouraged to reach out to their senators and representatives. Let them know…TRIO Works! Find your Congressional Representative   NCCU 2026 TRIO Student Access and Success Conference   A heartfelt thanks to our individual donors and Patrons on Patreon Dr. Jamie Motley Dr. Ryan Barone Dr. Jeff Nepute Angelica Vialpando Angelica Valdez Rosario Riley Eric LaMaster Jeff Kahlden Felicia Rivera Jaded Electronics A huge thanks to our corporate sponsors TRIOjoblist.com NOSOTROS Education Center (NEC) TheTRIOstore.com powered by Proforma Longsdale Publishing StudentAccess 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

    25 min

  5. NOV 3

    Your Advocacy Game Plan with Jeff Kahlden, COE Board Chair

    We are honored to welcome back Jeff Kahlden for his third appearance on the podcast! As a true leader in educational equity, Jeff brings a wealth of experience to the conversation. He currently serves as the Board Chair for the Council for Opportunity in Education (COE) and was recently honored as the recipient of the 2023 Walter O. Mason Award for his exceptional advocacy in TRIO. When he's not shaping national policy, Jeff works in Grant Management Services for Dallas College. Join us as he discusses crucial updates and strategies for advocacy. Community Announcement Links: TRIO Nation - Call your congressional representatives to defend TRIO! The most recent proposed budget aims to eliminate TRIO programs. Alumni, participants, and advocates are encouraged to reach out to their senators and representatives. Let them know…TRIO Works! Find your Congressional Representative   NCCU 2026 TRIO Student Access and Success Conference   A heartfelt thanks to our individual donors and Patrons on Patreon Dr. Jamie Motley Dr. Ryan Barone Dr. Jeff Nepute Angelica Vialpando Angelica Valdez Rosario Riley Eric LaMaster Jeff Kahlden Felicia Rivera Jaded Electronics A huge thanks to our corporate sponsors TRIOjoblist.com NOSOTROS Education Center (NEC) TheTRIOstore.com powered by Proforma Longsdale Publishing StudentAccess 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

    46 min

  6. OCT 31

    "Hopeful" - Dr. Estevan Parra-Guerrero - Director, TRIO Upward Bound (Fresno State)

    Hi TRIO Nation! This week, we sit down with the incredible Dr. Estevan Parra-Guerrero, Director of the TRIO Upward Bound Programs at California State University, Fresno. Dr. Parra-Guerrero’s passion for educational opportunity is deeply personal. He opens up about his journey from South Central LA, where he was raised by formerly undocumented parents alongside 10 siblings, to becoming a celebrated leader. Hear how his background as a first-generation college student and a closeted gay Mexicano shaped his commitment to equity in education. Discover his unexpected professional path, which led him from a Fortune 500 company to pursuing his master’s and ultimately an Ed.D. culminating in him being named the prestigious 2025 Dean’s Medalist. Now, as the 2024 Director of the Year and a 40 Under 40 recipient, he impactfully supports 153 low-income, first-generation students every day. Get ready for an inspiring, honest, and yes, even humorous conversation! Community Announcement Links: TRIO Nation - Call your congressional representatives to defend TRIO! The most recent proposed budget aims to eliminate TRIO programs. Alumni, participants, and advocates are encouraged to reach out to their senators and representatives. Let them know…TRIO Works! Find your Congressional Representative   NCCU 2026 TRIO Student Access and Success Conference   A heartfelt thanks to our individual donors and Patrons on Patreon Dr. Jamie Motley Dr. Ryan Barone Dr. Jeff Nepute Angelica Vialpando Angelica Valdez Rosario Riley Eric LaMaster Jeff Kahlden Felicia Rivera Jaded Electronics   A huge thanks to our corporate sponsors TRIOjoblist.com NOSOTROS Education Center (NEC) TheTRIOstore.com powered by Proforma Longsdale Publishing StudentAccess   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

    1h 39m

  7. OCT 14

    A Collaboration with JCYC TRIO Programs: The Importance of Advocacy

    The future of the TRIO programs requires our collective voice, and this episode is your official guide to making that voice heard. We are honored to be joined by Daphnis Schmidt and Emalyn Lapus from the JCYC TRIO programs for a crucial conversation about advocacy and collaboration. Our guests will provide vital updates on the current landscape for TRIO and break down the most effective strategies for advocacy - from contacting representatives to leveraging social media. They will also discuss the single most important action you can take today to join the coordinated national effort: following the @protecttrionow page on Instagram. If you've ever wondered how you can give back and ensure TRIO continues to change lives, this episode is your roadmap. Tune in to get informed, get equipped, and get activated. Follow and post on our social media platforms to show the success of TRIO and the critical need to preserve these programs: Instagram: @protecttrionow TikTok: protecttrionow LinkedIn: Protect TRIO Now  Facebook: Protect TRIO Now Community Announcement Links: TRIO Nation - Call your congressional representatives to defend TRIO! The most recent proposed budget aims to eliminate TRIO programs. Alumni, participants, and advocates are encouraged to reach out to their senators and representatives. Let them know…TRIO Works! Find your Congressional Representative   NCCU 2026 TRIO Student Access and Success Conference   A heartfelt thanks to our individual donors and Patrons on Patreon Dr. Jamie Motley Dr. Ryan Barone Dr. Jeff Nepute Angelica Vialpando Angelica Valdez Rosario Riley Eric LaMaster Jeff Kahlden Felicia Rivera Jaded Electronics   A huge thanks to our corporate sponsors TRIOjoblist.com NOSOTROS Education Center (NEC) TheTRIOstore.com powered by Proforma Longsdale Publishing StudentAccess   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

    46 min

  8. OCT 3

    "Resilient" - Jackie Estrada Perez - TRIO McNair Participant (Univ. of Northern Colorado)

    One last-minute decision can define an entire academic career. In this episode, we sit down with Jackie Estrada Perez, a University of Northern Colorado student who began her journey at Aims Community College. Jackie shares the story behind her pivotal choice to attend Aims and how the TRIO Student Support Services program there set her up for success. She offers invaluable insights into the transfer process from a community college to a four-year university and discusses her current work as a TRIO McNair Scholars Research participant through the Center for Human Enrichment (CHE) at UNC. Tune in to hear how Jackie is navigating a double major in Health Sciences and Human Services, with minors in Environmental Science and Psychology, and learn how supportive programs can make all the difference.   Community Announcement Links: As you may know, TRIO is under attack. The current administration argues that TRIO programs are unnecessary, claiming that college access for low-income, first-generation students is no longer hindered by economic and systemic barriers. We all know that is false, and that TRIO services still provide sorely needed opportunities to hundreds of thousands of students nationwide. Action is required in order to protect these vital services.  Please contact your members of Congress to let them know that you support TRIO, and follow @protecttrionow on Instagram to stay up-to-date with the latest updates and information. Find your Congressional Representative NCCU 2026 TRIO Student Access and Success Conference A heartfelt thanks to our individual donors and Patrons on Patreon Dr. Jamie Motley Dr. Ryan Barone Dr. Jeff Nepute Angelica Vialpando Angelica Valdez Rosario Riley Eric LaMaster Jeff Kahlden Felicia Rivera Jaded Electronics A huge thanks to our corporate sponsors TRIOjoblist.com NOSOTROS Education Center (NEC) TheTRIOstore.com powered by Proforma Longsdale Publishing StudentAccess 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

    1h 30m
See All (155)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

A podcast dedicated to the TRIO programs across the United States and its territories. TRIO programs are federally funded outreach initiatives that promote college access, equity, and success. The podcast highlights stories from staff, participants, alumni, and advocates from various TRIO programs (Educational Talent Search, Upward Bound, Upward Bound Math/Science, Veteran’s Upward Bound, Student Support Services, McNair Program, Educational Opportunity Centers).

Information

  • Creator
    Juan Rivas, Amelia Castañeda, John Russell
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    155
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2018 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Let’s Talk TRIO

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