Freeish in Higher Education is a podcast about what it really takes to chase a degree when the system was not built for you. Hosted by Chelsea, a passionate advocate, non-traditional parenting student, and community leader from Dallas, this series pulls back the curtain on higher ed and exposes the real cost of being successful in a system that wasn't built with us in mind.
From the broken promises of DEI to imposter syndrome, financial aid, mental health, dual credit and more this show amplifies the voices they overlook and the strength they underestimate.
We are so much more than students.
We are people with visions, goals and dreams.
We are the future. Free-ish and still showing up.
Together we can make a difference.
If you’ve ever felt invisible, weighed down by barriers, or like you’re carrying the weight of the world alone; we can carry it together.
This space was made for you.
📸 Follow us on Instagram: @freeishpodcast
📧 Got a story? Email me: free.ishpodcast@gmail.com
🖤 Sponsor: redcircle.com/shows/35816a73-151e-4911-950e-9b61b6d2d67a (https://redcircle.com/shows/35816a73-151e-4911-950e-9b61b6d2d67a)
🔗 Connect on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/free-ish-in-higher-education (https://www.linkedin.com/company/free-ish-in-higher-education/)
Publisher
Chelsea Talley
Category
business · education · government · society & culture
Voices that Move Policy: Michael Richardson and the Work of the National Skills Coalition
In this episode I sit down with Michael Richardson, Director of Worker and Student Voice at the National Skills Coalition (NSC), to talk about how policy can truly reflect the people it is meant to serve. Michael shares how NSC is working to build education and workforce systems that are more inclusive, more equitable, and better designed for students balancing school, work, and life.
As the leader of NSC’s Student Advisory Council, Michael helps bring lived experience to the policy table, shaping real solutions through initiatives like Making College Work. He opens up about his own journey from grassroots organizing to national advocacy and how storytelling continues to drive his passion for equity and opportunity.
Michael’s work reminds us that when students and workers are included in the conversation, policy becomes personal and that is when real change happens.
Be sure to check out the Making College Work publication using (https://nationalskillscoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/NSC-NonDegreePathways_Brief.pdf)this link (https://nationalskillscoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/NSC-NonDegreePathways_Brief.pdf) and visit (https://nationalskillscoalition.org)nationalskillscoalition.org (https://nationalskillscoalition.org) to see more of the incredible work happening at NSC.
Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/free-ish-in-higher-education/donations (https://redcircle.com/free-ish-in-higher-education/donations)
6 Oct 2025
Voices of Resilience: Elias Ramirez, Building a Better Future From the Ground Up
In this episode, I sit down with Elias Ramirez, a first-generation Mexican-American and proud Galveston County native whose story is nothing short of inspiring. From graduating with a degree in Public Service Leadership to leading food access programs at the Galveston County Food Bank, Elias has dedicated his life to fighting hunger, uplifting youth, and building stronger communities.
As President of the Hispanic Business Network of Galveston County, Elias is creating opportunities for Hispanic-owned businesses while mentoring the next generation of leaders. He shares his journey of being first-gen, the challenges he’s faced, and the resilience it takes to keep showing up for his community.
Elias is more than a leader—he’s a warrior for equity, opportunity, and change. This conversation will leave you fired up and hopeful about the power of grassroots leadership.
To learn more about the Hispanic Business Network of Galveston County visit https://linktr.ee/hbngc (https://linktr.ee/hbngc)
or follow on LinkdIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/hispanic-business-network-of-galveston-county/posts/ (https://www.linkedin.com/company/hispanic-business-network-of-galveston-county/posts/)
Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/free-ish-in-higher-education/donations (https://redcircle.com/free-ish-in-higher-education/donations)
8 Sept 2025
Women Who Lead: Paige Swanstein, Championing Student-Centered Solutions
In this episode, I talk with Paige Swanstein, Co-Founder and Co-Executive Director of the Student Basic Needs Coalition (SBNC), a national nonprofit working to end food, housing, and healthcare insecurity among college students. SBNC bridges technology, policy, and student leadership to drive systemic change — and has already connected students to over $27 million in SNAP and Medicaid benefits across 500 campuses nationwide.
Paige shares how SBNC’s programs, peer navigators, and policy advocacy efforts are helping restore the balance of power so students are included in creating solutions to basic needs insecurity. We also talk about how this work is shifting the conversation in higher education toward equity, well-being, and shared responsibility.
This episode is a powerful reminder that when students are part of the solution, change becomes not just possible, but unstoppable.
If you want to learn more or get involved, visit the Student Basic Needs Coalition: https://www.studentbasicneeds.com (https://www.studentbasicneeds.com)
Follow along on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sbnc (https://www.linkedin.com/company/sbnc)
Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/free-ish-in-higher-education/donations (https://redcircle.com/free-ish-in-higher-education/donations)
2 Sept 2025
Women Who Lead: Dr. Sara Goldrick-Rab and the #RealCollege Movement
In this episode of Free-ish in Higher Ed, I sit down with Dr. Goldrick-Rab, scholar activist and founder of the #RealCollege movement. Known for transforming student struggles into systemic solutions, Dr. Goldrick-Rab has spent her career centering students’ voices and fighting to make higher education more just and accessible.
From advising the Obama and Biden administrations to founding The Hope Center for College, Community, and Justice, Dr. Goldrick-Rab has been at the forefront of research and policy that redefined how we understand basic needs insecurity in higher education. Her work has illuminated the realities of food insecurity, housing instability, and financial hardship among college students while pushing for bold solutions like emergency aid, free community college, and national coalitions that put students first.
In our conversation, Dr. Goldrick-Rab shares what it means to lead as a woman in higher education, why a student centered approach matters, and how faculty, staff, and policymakers can step up to meet students’ essential needs.
Connect with Dr. Goldrick-Rab:
Website: https://saragoldrickrab.com
LinkedIn: (https://www.linkedin.com/in/saragoldrickrab?utm_source=chatgpt.com)https://www.linkedin.com/in/saragoldrickrab (https://www.linkedin.com/in/saragoldrickrab?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
Learn more about #Real College: https://believeinstudents.org/advancing-the-realcollege-movement/ (https://believeinstudents.org/advancing-the-realcollege-movement/)
Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/free-ish-in-higher-education/donations (https://redcircle.com/free-ish-in-higher-education/donations)
25 Aug 2025
Women Who Lead: Dr. Kimberly Jones. Leading with Impact, Inspiring Change Through Representation
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Kimberly Jones, a proud Latina, first-generation college graduate, and one of the less than one percent of Latinas in the U.S. who hold a doctorate. With over 15 years of experience, Dr. Jones is a dynamic higher education leader and champion for equity and representation. She designs programs that empower student leaders, build belonging, and drive meaningful change from the inside out.
We talk about the power of representation, finding your voice in spaces that weren’t built for you, and what it truly takes to lead with authenticity. Dr. Jones shares how she broke through barriers, claimed her seat at the table, and uses her story to open doors for others.
Don’t miss her commencement speech, a moment of pride that perfectly captures her leadership and vision.
https://youtu.be/9t_5xgwwhIo?si=Gn03A3bmwPy-Oex2 (https://youtu.be/9t_5xgwwhIo?si=Gn03A3bmwPy-Oex2)
To learn more about Dr. Jones and her work, follow her on LinkedIn or stay tuned for her upcoming speaking engagements and leadership projects.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberlyfjones/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberlyfjones/)
Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/free-ish-in-higher-education/donations (https://redcircle.com/free-ish-in-higher-education/donations)
18 Aug 2025
Women Who Lead: Dr. Ja’Bette Lozupone, Transforming Lived Experience Into Meaningful Leadership
In this episode I sit down with Dr. Ja’Bette Lozupone, a former teen mom turned higher ed leader, executive coach, business owner, and unapologetic advocate for equity. Dr. Lozupone is the Founder of Wishful Doing LLC, a consulting firm built to awaken potential, amplify equity, and turn big visions into bold results. She also serves as Director of Student Affairs at Montgomery College, where she leads transformative work supporting student parents and vulnerable student populations.
In this raw and real conversation, Dr. Lozupone opens up about what it took to go from 16 and pregnant to a woman who leads systems, builds community, and holds space for others to rise. We also talk about how real impact often comes from the most personal places.
To learn more about Ja’Bette’s work, visit (https://wishfuldoings.com)wishfuldoings.com (https://wishfuldoings.com) or explore her leadership at (https://www.montgomerycollege.edu)montgomerycollege.edu (https://www.montgomerycollege.edu).
Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/free-ish-in-higher-education/donations (https://redcircle.com/free-ish-in-higher-education/donations)
11 Aug 2025
Student Spotlight: Lynne Hamblin, Adult Education Advocate and Peer Leader at Rogue Community College
In this episode, I sit down with Lynne Hamblin, a passionate advocate for adult education and peer leader at Rogue Community College in Oregon. After earning her GED in 2021, Lynne returned to school while raising her twins and working on campus as a student employee. She recently launched a parenting club to support other student parents and has shared her story at conferences across the state.
Lynne speaks openly about what motivated her to finish her GED, how she pushed through fear and self-doubt, and why she believes in creating community for students who are often overlooked.
If you're thinking about going back to school or earning your GED, visit (https://ged.com)GED.com (https://ged.com) to explore your options.
Visit https://www.roguecc.edu/dept/PCE/default.asp (https://www.roguecc.edu/dept/PCE/default.asp) to learn more about Rogue Community College Adult Education Programs
Texas residents can also explore local adult education and workforce resources here: https://tcall.tamu.edu/MAWAE.html (https://tcall.tamu.edu/MAWAE.html)
Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/free-ish-in-higher-education/donations (https://redcircle.com/free-ish-in-higher-education/donations)
4 Aug 2025
Real College Spotlight: Christina Hasaan, Community Builder and Creator of The Speakeasy
In this episode, I sit down with Christina Hasaan, a first-generation college graduate, teen mom, and community builder who has spent over a decade using education and storytelling to drive change. Christina currently serves the city of Philadelphia as a community leader in many ways. Christina leads workshops and builds meaningful connections across neighborhoods.
We talk about her journey through higher education, the barriers she overcame, and how she created a support system that helped her stay true to herself. Christina also shares about The Speakeasy, her new community event series designed to hold space for honest, unfiltered conversations rooted in joy and healing.
This episode highlights the power of showing up authentically and believing in your own story — especially when the world expects you to fit a certain mold.
If you want to learn more or connect, find Christina on LinkedIn at (https://www.linkedin.com/in/christina-hasaan)linkedin.com/in/christina-hasaan (https://www.linkedin.com/in/christina-hasaan) and stay tuned for updates on The Speakeasy.
Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/free-ish-in-higher-education/donations (https://redcircle.com/free-ish-in-higher-education/donations)
21 Jul 2025
Real College Spotlight: Frederick Shegog, Founder, Speaker & Advocate for Recovery and Equity
In this episode, I sit down with Frederick Shegog, founder of The Message LLC, motivational speaker, and advocate for recovery, mental health, and equity in education. Freddy’s story is one of transformation, from battling homelessness and addiction to becoming a college graduate and a national voice for student support.
He shares how real, personal support changed his life, what it means to create systems that truly serve students, and why he believes education should touch both the mind and soul. Freddy opens up about his mental health journey, how he stays grounded, and the legacy he’s building by using his voice to uplift others.
His journey reminds us that every student deserves to be seen, supported, and believed in.
Learn more about Freddy’s work at (https://freddyshegog.com)freddyshegog.com (https://freddyshegog.com).
Explore the Real College Curriculum at (https://believeinstudents.org/realcollege-curriculum/)believeinstudents.org/realcollege-curriculum (https://believeinstudents.org/realcollege-curriculum/)
Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/free-ish-in-higher-education/donations (https://redcircle.com/free-ish-in-higher-education/donations)
14 Jul 2025
Real College Spotlight: Alisha Small, Wellness Coach, Advocate & Higher Ed Changemaker
In this episode, I sit down with Alisha Small, founder of Living Fulfilled Coaching & Consulting, a personal development coach, mentor, and advocate for student parents, students with disabilities, and workforce development. Alisha’s story shows the power of personal growth and mentorship to create real change.
She shares how her experiences as a non-traditional student and parent shaped her passion for helping others build confidence and break barriers. Alisha reminds us that representation matters — not just for her, but for everyone who comes after.
Her journey inspires us to lean into growth, advocacy, and community support so more students can thrive.
Learn more about Alisha’s work at (http://www.livingfulfilledcoaching.com/)livingfulfilledcoaching.com (http://livingfulfilledcoaching.com).
Explore the Real College Curriculum at (https://believeinstudents.org/realcollege-curriculum/)believeinstudents.org/realcollege-curriculum (http://believeinstudents.org/realcollege-curriculum)
Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/free-ish-in-higher-education/donations (https://redcircle.com/free-ish-in-higher-education/donations)
8 Jul 2025
Creating Spaces for Critical Dialogue and Learning ft. Dr. Lance Bennett
Dr. Lance Bennett discusses creating inclusive spaces for critical dialogue and learning, highlighting the importance of community and justice in higher education in this interview.
Host interviews Jasmine Crawford, a dual-enrollment student and future STEM leader, highlighting the importance of support systems and representation in higher education for student success.
19 Jun 2025
Juneteenth Spotlight: TABPHE
Dr. Charles Leslie discusses the Texas Association of Black Personnel in Higher Education, honoring its founders' legacy and inviting listeners to participate in its ongoing work; this is an interview.
19 Jun 2025
Why Free-ish?
The host shares the origin story and motivation behind the "Free-ish in Higher Education" podcast, exploring the complexities of navigating higher education while facing systemic barriers to access and equity.
17 May 2025
Sneak Peek: Free-ish in Higher Education
Chelsea shares her experiences as a non-traditional student navigating higher education systems, offering insights for overlooked and isolated students in an interview.
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