In the "Don't Chuck It Up" podcast episode titled "Chaotic Times," host Chuck offers advice on navigating the college application and search process amidst a chaotic world. He shares a personal story about his experience at Lawrence University on September 11, 2001, and discusses more recent events, such as a tragedy on a Utah campus and lockdowns at HBCUs. Chuck encourages students and families to pause, take time for themselves, and know that there is still time to apply to colleges. He emphasizes the importance of having multiple options, including a plan B and C, and encourages listeners to look beyond well-known schools and college rankings. Chuck highlights that over half of U.S. colleges have rolling applications, and many are growing and exceeding enrollment expectations. He recommends Jeffrey Selingo's new book, Dream School: Finding the College that's Right for You, as a resource for finding great schools that may not be on a student's radar.

Chuck, the host of the "Don't Chuck It Up Podcast," and guest Lee Norwood, an independent educational consultant and founder of College Sharks, discuss the widespread misinformation about the college application process that circulates among parents. They share their experiences hearing "parent BS" on the sidelines of kids' games and other social gatherings. Lee, a data-driven consultant, emphasizes the importance of using accurate, data-driven information rather than relying on personal anecdotes. They debunk common myths, such as the value of taking AP exams, the relevance of a high GPA compared to course rigor, and the notion that a family's alumni status guarantees admission. The episode stresses that the college search is a personalized journey, and a school's "prestige" or popularity is less important than finding the right fit for the student academically, socially, and financially. They encourage parents to play "chess, not checkers" by considering the long-term goals for their child's education and career, rather than just short-term status symbols. They also highlight the value of in-person college visits and relying on reliable sources like high school websites, counselors, and educational consultants instead of rumor mills. The episode concludes with a reminder that there are many paths to success, and students shouldn't feel pressured to follow a specific trajectory. Learn how to avoid the parent BS so you don't chuck it up!

Use code "chuck50" on www.collegesharks.com for a 50% discount

In episode 59 of the podcast "Don't Chuck It Up," host Chuck provides a comprehensive timeline for high school seniors and their parents on navigating the college application process for admissions, scholarships, and financial aid. The episode emphasizes that applying to college is a marathon, not a sprint, and encourages students to start finalizing their list of colleges in the fall. Chuck explains the difference between colleges with specific deadlines and those with rolling admissions, noting that many private and public flagship universities have deadlines in November or later, with some southern colleges having deadlines as early as October 15. The podcast also covers the importance of the FAFSA, which can be started as early as October 1st, and advises parents to complete it by November 1st. Additionally, the episode explains that a student's admission application often doubles as their scholarship application for many colleges, while others may require a separate application later. Finally, Chuck outlines the post-submission timeline, from the review process in the winter to the release of decisions and financial aid awards in the spring, reminding students that they have until at least May 1st to make a final decision.

In this episode of the "Don't Chuck It Up" podcast, host Chuck welcomes Iuri Melo, co-founder of School Pulse, to discuss the critical importance of student mental health and proactive support in education. Melo, a licensed clinical social worker, explains that School Pulse is a proactive service for schools and districts to provide students with resources on positive psychology and a growth mindset, fostering optimism and academic success. Our chat highlights the growing mental health crisis among youth, noting that a significant number of college dropouts are due to mental health issues. Melo advocates for a shift from reactive intervention to proactive prevention, providing students with foundational skills to protect them from depression, anxiety, and suicide. School Pulse offers a multi-tiered solution for schools, students, and families, including live text-based support, video content, and activities that help teachers, parents, and students navigate challenging topics like anxiety, self-harm, and peer issues. Equipping students with these tools at a young age can lead to a healthier and happier adult population. Tune in and learn how optimism and proactive support can help you.

This episode of the "Don't Chuck It Up" podcast offers an in-depth overview of the college recruitment process for students interested in the fine and performing arts, including music, dance, theater, and studio art. The discussion covers different levels of college study, ranging from extracurricular activities to a major or minor in the arts. Key topics include the various types of degrees available, such as a Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), or Bachelor of Music. The episode also offers crucial guidance on preparing for college art portfolio and music audition submissions, which are often required for admission and scholarships. Prospective students will learn about the importance of early preparation, how to research specific program requirements, and the benefits of connecting with faculty. Additionally, the episode addresses the timing of the application process, which is often later than for other fields, and debunks the myth that students must attend a specific, prestigious college to succeed in the arts. This podcast will prepare you for the artistic recruitment process so you don't chuck it up.

In episode 56 of the "Don't Chuck It Up" podcast, host Chuck and guest Margaret Rothe, co-founder of CounselMore, discuss the significant changes and responsibilities that come when a student turns 18, particularly regarding the college application process. They cover key topics such as Selective Service registration for male students between 18 and 25, the importance of registering to vote, and the ability to sign contracts. The episode also delves into financial topics like signing up for student loans, including the Stafford Loan program, and the risks of signing contracts for credit cards or vocational programs without fully understanding the terms. A major focus is on privacy and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), with a detailed discussion on how students' educational records are handled during the application process and once they enroll in college. The hosts emphasize the importance of open communication between students and parents about these new adult responsibilities to help navigate the transition from dependence to independence.

In this episode of Don't Chuck It Up, host Chuck Erickson unpacks one of the most misunderstood parts of the college application process: extracurricular activities.

Whether you're applying through the Common App, Coalition App, or University of California system, Chuck explains how to build a compelling activities list that truly reflects who you are. 🚀

✅ Myth-busting moment: You don’t need to fill all 10 activity slots. Authenticity and passion matter more than quantity!

🎯 Chuck covers:

• What actually qualifies as an extracurricular (hint: it's anything outside of graded class time!)
  

• The value of volunteering and community service – even caring for family members or helping a neighbor
  

• Why paid jobs, babysitting, and summer activities count just as much as school clubs
  

• How to accurately include music, sports, and online hobbies – and yes, even collecting moss or baking!
  

• Tips on writing about your activities with genuine enthusiasm and intention
  

💡 Pro Tip: Colleges want to see what makes you unique. So don’t list activities to impress—list what makes you excited.

Whether you’re a student prepping your apps or a parent helping behind the scenes, this episode will help you own your story and stand out on your college applications.

🎧 Tune in now and get ready to crush your activities list with confidence!

In this practical and empowering episode of Don't Chuck It Up, Chuck is joined by college success coach Mya Andersen from The Student Empowered, where they deliver essential college prep tips for parents whose students are heading off to college this fall.

Drawing from her professional expertise and personal experience as a college parent, Mya shares proven strategies to help families ease the transition from high school to higher education. Learn how to support your student without micromanaging—by encouraging independence, teaching them to manage their college emails and portals, and even setting up a weekly “college day” to tackle important tasks together.

We also cover:

• ✅ How to build and track a college prep to-do list
  

• ✅ What campus resources you should know ahead of time (student accounts, housing, counseling, safety & more)
  

• ✅ Tips for engaging in meaningful (and helpful!) college conversations with your student
  

• ✅ The importance of community support and how to find it
  

This episode is your go-to parent guide to college readiness, packed with actionable advice that empowers you and your student for success.

🎧 Whether you're feeling excited, nervous, or both—tune in to learn how to support your student like a pro and help them thrive in their first year of college.