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College admissions can feel like a high‑stakes project—but for families, it’s really a transition point. In this episode of Stages, host Emily Grace sits down with Elizabeth “Liz” Stone, CEO of Top Tier Admissions, to reframe the admissions process as something far more meaningful than acceptance letters or rankings. Together, they unpack what selective colleges actually value, where families tend to over‑invest their energy, and how students become memorable rather than merely impressive on paper. Liz brings a rare dual perspective: deep experience from inside highly selective admissions offices, combined with decades of work helping families navigate an increasingly opaque and stressful process. The result is a thoughtful, clarifying conversation about focus, intention, and preparing young adults for what comes next—well before senior year. Key Topics & Takeaways Why college admissions is not a meritocracy—and why understanding this early reduces stressWhat selective colleges really mean by “intellectual vitality”Why “doing more” activities often backfiresThe difference between being impressive on paper and memorable as a personHow depth, curiosity, and initiative consistently stand out to admissions readersWhat has changed in recent admissions cycles—and what has stayed the sameHow AI is influencing college essays, and why authenticity matters more than everThe role parents can play that genuinely helps (and where it backfires)How strong recommendations are earned long before they’re writtenA stage‑by‑stage framework from middle school through senior yearEpisode Timeline 01:42 – Liz Stone’s background and the founding of Top Tier Admissions05:41 – Where families waste energy—and why “doing more” doesn’t help08:24 – Turning familiar activities into distinctive impact (the soccer + mindfulness example)09:49 – What’s changed—and what hasn’t—in college admissions11:51 – What admissions officers consistently look for in successful applicants13:00 – Impressive vs. memorable: what really differentiates students18:46 – A practical, year‑by‑year playbook from middle school through senior year24:59 – Building a grounded, balanced college list32:45 – The most common college essay mistakes35:12 – Where parents can help—and where they should step back39:56 – AI‑assisted essays: what schools are seeing and how students should respond48:24 – The one thing families should remember about this processAbout the Guest Elizabeth “Liz” Stone is the CEO of Top Tier Admissions, a firm dedicated to bringing transparency and strategy to the college admissions process. With experience both inside highly selective admissions offices and alongside families navigating the system, Liz focuses on helping students present authentic, compelling applications—and helping families approach admissions with clarity rather than panic. About the Host Emily Grace works with dynamic families as they navigate complex life transitions—balancing opportunity, priorities, and long‑term decision‑making across generations. In her work, college admissions often appears not as a technical problem to solve, but as a signal: a moment when families benefit from stepping back and thinking more intentionally about independence, responsibility, and readiness for adulthood. Emily frequently helps parents think through a broader pre‑college checklist—not a packing list, but a framework for earned independence, with wealth in the background, not the foreground. If This Episode Raised Questions for Your Family That’s often the point. Many families reach out not because they need help choosing a school, but because they want a calmer, more intentional way to navigate this stage—one that supports both the student in front of them and the adult they’re becoming. You can find additional resources in the show notes or reach Emily directly at  [email protected] Thank You for Listening to Stages Stages explores the moments that shape families over time—offering perspective, clarity, and practical frameworks for what comes next. About Stages  Stages explores the moments that shape families over time - offering perspective, clarity, and practical frameworks for navigating life’s transitions with intention.  About the Host  Emily Grace works with dynamic families as they navigate complex life stages, helping parents and individuals step back, clarify priorities, and make thoughtful decisions amid complexity. Her work focuses on long-term readiness, earned independence, and supporting families through transitions where financial resources are present - but not the point. If this episode prompted reflection or raised questions about a stage you or your family is navigating, you’re welcome to reach Emily at [email protected].

Having personally experienced my father's battle with dementia and supporting my aging mother, recording the latest episode of Stages, on Cognitive Mental Decline, was emotionally intense yet rewarding.  My conversation with Colleen Jackson from Intent Clinical, a partner of the Grace Team, was a mix of challenging discussions, light moments, valuable insights, and heartfelt emotions.  We delved into the importance of initiating early conversations with our parents, the advantages of baseline evaluations in midlife, and effective strategies for addressing cognitive decline when it arises. I learned more about the early interventions available that can make a significant difference – a realization that resonated deeply with me as I reflected on my own experiences with my father. I am deeply grateful to Dr. Jackson for sharing her expertise and insights with me, and by extension, with all of you.  Whether it's financial planning or safeguarding mental cognition, early preparation can truly make a positive impact. [email protected] or 212-756-1951 About Stages  Stages explores the moments that shape families over time - offering perspective, clarity, and practical frameworks for navigating life’s transitions with intention.  About the Host  Emily Grace works with dynamic families as they navigate complex life stages, helping parents and individuals step back, clarify priorities, and make thoughtful decisions amid complexity. Her work focuses on long-term readiness, earned independence, and supporting families through transitions where financial resources are present - but not the point. If this episode prompted reflection or raised questions about a stage you or your family is navigating, you’re welcome to reach Emily at [email protected].

The economic landscape has changed and with it has come a shift as employers have regained the power. Listen in as I speak with Michael Sherman Founder of Graduate to Employment. Michael provides strategies and tips to help today's college students find key jobs and coveted internships. Call me at 212-756-1951 or email me at [email protected] to learn more about the work that the team and I do to help dynamic families strategize through all the stages of their lives.  About Stages  Stages explores the moments that shape families over time - offering perspective, clarity, and practical frameworks for navigating life’s transitions with intention.  About the Host  Emily Grace works with dynamic families as they navigate complex life stages, helping parents and individuals step back, clarify priorities, and make thoughtful decisions amid complexity. Her work focuses on long-term readiness, earned independence, and supporting families through transitions where financial resources are present - but not the point. If this episode prompted reflection or raised questions about a stage you or your family is navigating, you’re welcome to reach Emily at [email protected].

Listen in as I speak with Bernie Frischer, Eminent Latinist, Roman archaeologist, virtual reality technologist, Classics department chair at various US universities, longtime part-time resident of Rome, and overall bigwig at the American Academy in Rome. Bernie is the Founder and CEO of Flyover Zone - an EdTech company that brings ancient Rome to life for both students and travelers alike. About Stages  Stages explores the moments that shape families over time - offering perspective, clarity, and practical frameworks for navigating life’s transitions with intention.  About the Host  Emily Grace works with dynamic families as they navigate complex life stages, helping parents and individuals step back, clarify priorities, and make thoughtful decisions amid complexity. Her work focuses on long-term readiness, earned independence, and supporting families through transitions where financial resources are present - but not the point. If this episode prompted reflection or raised questions about a stage you or your family is navigating, you’re welcome to reach Emily at [email protected].

With summer in full swing, siblings are spending increasingly more time together. Thinking about how to manage sibling relationships, especially when they are your children, can be really tricky. You also have to manage your feelings about someone else relationships. Listen as I speak with Mariana Weiss, parenting consultant, on effective strategies to creating a healthy and happy sibling bond.   About Stages  Stages explores the moments that shape families over time - offering perspective, clarity, and practical frameworks for navigating life’s transitions with intention.  About the Host  Emily Grace works with dynamic families as they navigate complex life stages, helping parents and individuals step back, clarify priorities, and make thoughtful decisions amid complexity. Her work focuses on long-term readiness, earned independence, and supporting families through transitions where financial resources are present - but not the point. If this episode prompted reflection or raised questions about a stage you or your family is navigating, you’re welcome to reach Emily at [email protected].

Clutter can affect our anxiety levels, sleep, and ability to focus. It can also make us less productive, triggering coping and avoidance strategies that are detrimental to our mind, body, and finances.  Listen in as I speak with Robin Zaino & Irene Gans of 'Just Organize You' as we unpack the ways to organize, plan, and get moving to clear the clutter from our lives.     About Stages  Stages explores the moments that shape families over time - offering perspective, clarity, and practical frameworks for navigating life’s transitions with intention.  About the Host  Emily Grace works with dynamic families as they navigate complex life stages, helping parents and individuals step back, clarify priorities, and make thoughtful decisions amid complexity. Her work focuses on long-term readiness, earned independence, and supporting families through transitions where financial resources are present - but not the point. If this episode prompted reflection or raised questions about a stage you or your family is navigating, you’re welcome to reach Emily at [email protected].

Life throws a lot at us and, while there is no magic bullet, creating efficiency can help to break down some boundaries that impede our ability to be present in our day to day lives. Listen as Jeff Boyd, Founder of MTE (More Than Energy), and I discuss how removing the barriers to having fun makes for a life filled with greater happiness and tranquility. Jeff talks about the work and branding that went into creating his product, a wellness shot – boosting your mood and energy, and ultimately leading to more fun.  If I can help ease your financial stress and break down a barrier for you, reach out to me at [email protected].  About Stages  Stages explores the moments that shape families over time - offering perspective, clarity, and practical frameworks for navigating life’s transitions with intention.  About the Host  Emily Grace works with dynamic families as they navigate complex life stages, helping parents and individuals step back, clarify priorities, and make thoughtful decisions amid complexity. Her work focuses on long-term readiness, earned independence, and supporting families through transitions where financial resources are present - but not the point. If this episode prompted reflection or raised questions about a stage you or your family is navigating, you’re welcome to reach Emily at [email protected].

It's a great time to revisit both your financial and fitness plans. Listen as I speak with Anna Kaiser, fitness trainer to the stars and CEO/Founder of Anna Kaiser Studios. Being both a trainer and choreographer, Anna has great advice for how to stay committed to a program and find something that works for you to get your heart pumping at least 30 minutes a day. Both your financial and fitness plans should be about more than getting in shape (money-wise or health wise) reach out to me at [email protected] to discuss. About Stages  Stages explores the moments that shape families over time - offering perspective, clarity, and practical frameworks for navigating life’s transitions with intention.  About the Host  Emily Grace works with dynamic families as they navigate complex life stages, helping parents and individuals step back, clarify priorities, and make thoughtful decisions amid complexity. Her work focuses on long-term readiness, earned independence, and supporting families through transitions where financial resources are present - but not the point. If this episode prompted reflection or raised questions about a stage you or your family is navigating, you’re welcome to reach Emily at [email protected].

What does it take to go from hearing ‘no’ to running a successful business? The lessons from Marvina Robinson, Founder and CEO of B. Stuyvesant Champagne, resonate whatever your stage (whether talking about running your business or your life.) Listen in as we hear about creating a brand, competing with the more established institutions, and generating a loyal following.  Pro tip for making an open bottle of champagne last longer occurs around minute 15 – enjoy! About Stages  Stages explores the moments that shape families over time - offering perspective, clarity, and practical frameworks for navigating life’s transitions with intention.  About the Host  Emily Grace works with dynamic families as they navigate complex life stages, helping parents and individuals step back, clarify priorities, and make thoughtful decisions amid complexity. Her work focuses on long-term readiness, earned independence, and supporting families through transitions where financial resources are present - but not the point. If this episode prompted reflection or raised questions about a stage you or your family is navigating, you’re welcome to reach Emily at [email protected].

The question of how to protect children on-line is huge. From cyber bullying and predators to identity theft, the issue is not going away. And, keeping children off of technology doesn’t seem to be the answer. Listen in as I speak with Brian Ebert, Chief Strategy Officer at Hackersjack, about how to address these issues and help our children succeed on-line. Note to All Readers: The information presented and opinions expressed are solely the views of the podcast host commentator and their guest speaker(s).  AllianceBernstein L.P. or its affiliates makes no representations or warranties concerning the accuracy of any data. There is no guarantee that any projection, forecast or opinion in this material will be realized. Past performance does not guarantee future results. The views expressed here may change at any time after the date of this podcast. This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. AllianceBernstein L.P. does not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. It does not take an investor’s personal investment objectives or financial situation into account; investors should discuss their individual circumstances with appropriate professionals before making any decisions. This information should not be construed as sales or marketing material or an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any financial instrument, product or service sponsored by AllianceBernstein or its affiliates. The [A/B] logo is a registered service mark of AllianceBernstein, and AllianceBernstein® is a registered service mark, used by permission of the owner, AllianceBernstein L.P. About Stages  Stages explores the moments that shape families over time - offering perspective, clarity, and practical frameworks for navigating life’s transitions with intention.  About the Host  Emily Grace works with dynamic families as they navigate complex life stages, helping parents and individuals step back, clarify priorities, and make thoughtful decisions amid complexity. Her work focuses on long-term readiness, earned independence, and supporting families through transitions where financial resources are present - but not the point. If this episode prompted reflection or raised questions about a stage you or your family is navigating, you’re welcome to reach Emily at [email protected].

What if I told you that NFTs might become the future of voting? Listen in as I speak with Charles Allen, Chairman and CEO of BTCS, about cryptocurrencies, NFTs, blockchain and why we should care. Charles explains the different types and why one would invest in any of them. He will also take us through the various use cases. Finally, he addresses some of your questions and concerns around volatility.  NOTE: Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies are a very speculative investment and involves a high degree of risk. Investors must have the financial ability, sophistication/experience and willingness to bear the risks of an investment, and a potential total loss of their investment. Note to All Readers: The information presented and opinions expressed are solely the views of the podcast host commentator and their guest speaker(s).  AllianceBernstein L.P. or its affiliates makes no representations or warranties concerning the accuracy of any data. There is no guarantee that any projection, forecast or opinion in this material will be realized. Past performance does not guarantee future results. The views expressed here may change at any time after the date of this podcast. This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. AllianceBernstein L.P. does not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. It does not take an investor’s personal investment objectives or financial situation into account; investors should discuss their individual circumstances with appropriate professionals before making any decisions. This information should not be construed as sales or marketing material or an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any financial instrument, product or service sponsored by AllianceBernstein or its affiliates. The [A/B] logo is a registered service mark of AllianceBernstein, and AllianceBernstein® is a registered service mark, used by permission of the owner, AllianceBernstein L.P. About Stages  Stages explores the moments that shape families over time - offering perspective, clarity, and practical frameworks for navigating life’s transitions with intention.  About the Host  Emily Grace works with dynamic families as they navigate complex life stages, helping parents and individuals step back, clarify priorities, and make thoughtful decisions amid complexity. Her work focuses on long-term readiness, earned independence, and supporting families through transitions where financial resources are present - but not the point. If this episode prompted reflection or raised questions about a stage you or your family is navigating, you’re welcome to reach Emily at [email protected].

Did you know that a decorative table top encourages curiosity and dialogue? Whether talking about your family’s day, values, current events, or even the latest gossip, a decorative table causes people to sit, talk, and engage. It brings out The Curious.  Join me on this episode of Stages as we speak with Kira Faiman, Founder of Von Gern Home, about how she started her business, why she is so passionate about it, ways that we can all tablescape, and why we should! If you, or someone you know would like an introduction or are curious about the work that my team and I do to help dynamic families, please email me at [email protected]. About Stages  Stages explores the moments that shape families over time - offering perspective, clarity, and practical frameworks for navigating life’s transitions with intention.  About the Host  Emily Grace works with dynamic families as they navigate complex life stages, helping parents and individuals step back, clarify priorities, and make thoughtful decisions amid complexity. Her work focuses on long-term readiness, earned independence, and supporting families through transitions where financial resources are present - but not the point. If this episode prompted reflection or raised questions about a stage you or your family is navigating, you’re welcome to reach Emily at [email protected].

Do you ever feel like your child's college acceptance is the grade that you are getting for 18 years of parenting? Do we need to start preparing in elementary school? Middle? High school? Birth??   Listen in as I speak with Teru Clavel, best-selling author, journalist, and education consultant to discuss the importance of a strong admissions essay and how to support students during the process.  If you, or someone you know, would like an introduction to Teru, or to learn more about the work that my team and I do to help Dynamic Families invest and plan, you can reach me at [email protected]. About Stages  Stages explores the moments that shape families over time - offering perspective, clarity, and practical frameworks for navigating life’s transitions with intention.  About the Host  Emily Grace works with dynamic families as they navigate complex life stages, helping parents and individuals step back, clarify priorities, and make thoughtful decisions amid complexity. Her work focuses on long-term readiness, earned independence, and supporting families through transitions where financial resources are present - but not the point. If this episode prompted reflection or raised questions about a stage you or your family is navigating, you’re welcome to reach Emily at [email protected].

You asked and we answered... Listen in as I speak with Liz Zeitler, of NY Medical and Cosmetic Dermatology to discuss skincare and wrinkles in general and then address the more targeted eye and chin areas. Liz walks us through everything from the importance of preventative care to ways to address the damage we have already done. She is full of practical and actionable advice and provides great guidance for those looking to take additional action. Listen in to learn more.  And, if you, or someone you know, would like an introduction to Liz, or to learn more about the work that my team and I do to help dynamic families invest and plan, you can reach me at [email protected]. About Stages  Stages explores the moments that shape families over time - offering perspective, clarity, and practical frameworks for navigating life’s transitions with intention.  About the Host  Emily Grace works with dynamic families as they navigate complex life stages, helping parents and individuals step back, clarify priorities, and make thoughtful decisions amid complexity. Her work focuses on long-term readiness, earned independence, and supporting families through transitions where financial resources are present - but not the point. If this episode prompted reflection or raised questions about a stage you or your family is navigating, you’re welcome to reach Emily at [email protected].

With 200 million vaccinations expected by summer and cases of Covid continuing to fall, the question turns to what the world will look like post pandemic and how we prepare ourselves. In today’s episode, we speak with Karen Gee-McAuley, Principal of Relevance PR, about the future of travel and the hospitality industry post-pandemic. Listen to Karen discuss  traveling with purpose, how she views BLeisure travel, ghost kitchens, and which vaccine passports show the most promise. To discuss further, you can reach me at [email protected] About Stages  Stages explores the moments that shape families over time - offering perspective, clarity, and practical frameworks for navigating life’s transitions with intention.  About the Host  Emily Grace works with dynamic families as they navigate complex life stages, helping parents and individuals step back, clarify priorities, and make thoughtful decisions amid complexity. Her work focuses on long-term readiness, earned independence, and supporting families through transitions where financial resources are present - but not the point. If this episode prompted reflection or raised questions about a stage you or your family is navigating, you’re welcome to reach Emily at [email protected].