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. 3D AGO

    Global Experiences That Change Your Life: Dr. Lisa Bardill Moscaritolo on Study Abroad, Gap Years & Semester at Sea

    How can international experiences transform your college journey and your future career? In this episode of Scholar Scoop, Steve Loflin sits down with Dr. Lisa Bardill Moscaritolo, an expert in international education and longtime leader connected with Semester at Sea, to explore how studying and traveling abroad can shape students’ growth, confidence, and opportunities. Together, they discuss why global experiences are one of the most powerful ways students can differentiate themselves academically and professionally. From semester-long programs to short-term travel, volunteer opportunities, and even gap years, Dr. Lisa shares practical insights on how students can find the right experience and why understanding your “why” is the key to choosing the right program. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why international experiences can set students apart in interviews and graduate applicationsHow to decide between deep cultural immersion vs. broader “comparative” programs like Semester at SeaWhy faculty are one of the most underused resources for study abroad opportunitiesHow campus offices like Study Abroad and Student Affairs can help you unlock global experiencesWhy planning early can make international travel possible, especially for scholarships and course creditsHow gap years and global leadership programs can help students gain clarity about their futureDr. Lisa also shares insights about the Student Leader Global Summit, where student leaders from around the world collaborate on global challenges like the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Whether you’re a college student considering study abroad, a high school student exploring gap year options, or a parent supporting a global-minded learner, this conversation highlights why international education can be a life-changing part of the college experience.

    35 min

  2. FEB 24

    From First Job to Board Seat: Marlo Lyons & Naomi Kent on Building a Board Career Early

    What if board service wasn’t something you waited 30 years for? In this episode of Scholar Scoop, Steve Loflin sits down with executive career coach Marlo Lyons and board career strategist Naomi Kent to discuss their new book, Wanted a Board Career, a practical, step-by-step guide to building a path to board service starting far earlier than most people think. This conversation is especially relevant for high-achieving students and emerging professionals who want to start standing out, expanding their networks, and building meaningful leadership experience right now. You’ll learn: Why board service isn’t just for retired CEOsHow nonprofit, junior, and advisory boards can accelerate your growthThe difference between nonprofit, advisory, and corporate boardsWhat “governance” really means (and why it’s not day-to-day management)How board seats are actually filled (hint: not through job boards)Why networking, branding, and LinkedIn optimization matterHow early board exposure like NSCS’s National Leadership Council model can become a long-term career advantageMarlo connects this new book to her broader career roadmap: from landing your first job to pivoting careers to positioning yourself for board leadership. Naomi brings over two decades of board expertise and demystifies compensation, expectations, and the real responsibilities board members carry. For students, this episode reframes internships, campus leadership roles, and early jobs as building blocks toward future board service. For professionals, it offers a concrete playbook for aligning values, skills, and long-term strategy. Want to learn more? Find Wanted → A Board Career on Amazon

    36 min

  3. FEB 10

    From Campus to Career: Coaching, Confidence, and Well-Being with Life Ramp Founder Michael Huckaby

    Scholar Scoop is back! After a brief hiatus, Steve Loflin, founder of National Society of Collegiate Scholars (NSCS), returns with a timely and deeply relevant conversation with Michael Huckaby, founder of Life Ramp. In this episode, Steve and Michael unpack what today’s high-achieving college students and young professionals are actually struggling with, and why it’s not a lack of motivation or talent. Drawing from a national study of NSCS members, they explore the three biggest pain points students face right now: career navigation, personal well-being, and interpersonal skills. Michael brings a rare, 360-degree perspective to the conversation. He’s a higher-education leader with 20+ years of experience, a founder building real solutions for the college-to-career gap, and a parent of an NSCS member navigating these decisions in real time. Together, he and Steve challenge the stigma around asking for help, reframe coaching as a strength (not a weakness), and explain why top performers don’t go it alone. You’ll hear practical insights on: Why imposter syndrome is so common among high achieversHow to think about career navigation by year, not just at graduationThe real limitations of traditional career services and how to fill the gapsWhy coaching, community, and well-being are long-term investments, not “extras”Whether you’re a student trying to figure out what comes next, a young professional feeling stuck, or a parent or educator supporting someone through that transition, this episode offers clarity, validation, and a realistic roadmap forward.

    40 min

  4. 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

  5. 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

  6. 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

  7. 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

  8. 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
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About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    The National Society of Collegiate Scholars
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    24
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Scholar Scoop
  • Show Website
    Scholar Scoop