Advertise on podcast: IN PROGRESS because we're always under construction.

The best school counseling work is never just a “program.” It’s a lifeline. Stockton Unified is showing what happens when students receive real-life skills, meaningful mentorship, and adults who keep showing up. That’s the kind of work that changes lives—and strengthens an entire school community. Join Matthew McClain, Roberto Aguilar & Jose Martinez reflect on the importance of personal growth and the shared journey in education. Their discussion highlights the inspiring work of individuals like Jose, who are making significant impacts in their communities.

The best school counselors are not just guiding students - they are building trust in hallways, lunchrooms, classrooms, and every messy, human moment in between. Roberto, Matthew, and guest Tim Adams unpack what it really looks like to be present for kids while still managing anxiety, transitions, and the constant pressure to show up strong.  Perfect for school counselors, educators, and anyone who needs a reminder that impact is often built one conversation, one routine, and one brave act of consistency at a time. If you’re heading into a new school year or just trying to stay grounded in the middle of one, this episode is for you.

Join Matthew and Roberto as they share practical strategies, both personal and from listeners, honed over years of navigating the busy conference halls of ASCA. Discover how intentional networking, planning your sessions, and embracing the full experience can turn an exhausting event into a cup-filling, game-changing opportunity. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned conference veteran, you'll come away with fresh ideas to maximize your growth and connections—so your professional development doesn’t just feel like work, but becomes an energizing journey of purpose and community. Key Topics The importance of intentional networking and making meaningful connectionsPlanning your conference schedule to maximize learning and reduce overwhelmPractical logistics: accommodations, packing, and timing tipsEmbracing the full conference experience, including the exhibit hall and social eventsSelf-care routines before, during, and after the conferenceLeveraging social media to connect before and after the eventTips for extroverts and introverts to get the most out of the conferenceIntegrating conference learnings into your professional practiceThe significance of building community and sustaining relationshipsPost-conference reflection and maintaining connections Email us at: [email protected] Follow Matthew Instagram:@counselor.mcclain Follow Roberto Instagram: @raaggie Linktree: linktr.ee/raaggie

Join Matthew and Roberto as we sit down with special guest Eric Waldo, a passionate advocate for education, mental health, and leadership development, sharing insights from his work with Mrs. Obama and innovative projects on AI in education. Discover how authenticity, vulnerability, and cultural pride can inspire the next generation to achieve their potential. Connect with Eric at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericwaldo/⁠⁠ Email us at: [email protected] Follow Matthew Instagram:@counselor.mcclain Follow Roberto Instagram: @raaggie Linktree: linktr.ee/raaggie Main Topics & Insights: Eric Waldo’s journey from working with Mrs. Obama to implementing AI tools in educationThe importance of authenticity, vulnerability, and relatability in leadershipStories of Mrs. Obama’s growth mindset and her emphasis on resilienceThe critical role school counselors play in student well-being and long-term successAddressing disparities in college access and persistence, especially for first-generation and low-income studentsThe power of cultural identity and diversity as strengths in education and leadershipInnovations in AI to support counselors, students, and college decision-makingThe necessity of teaching digital citizenship and ethical AI use for studentsThe ongoing progress in mental health awareness and its integration into education systemsThe significance of being present and grounded amidst busy schedulesMrs. Obama’s Reach Higher CampaignAmerican School Counselor Association (ASCA)Michelle Obama’s Memoir "Becoming"AI in Education ProjectsCultural Identity and Diversity ResourcesLinkedInTwitter Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction to Eric Waldo and his work with Mrs. Obama02:00 - Hot takes on everyday life and cultural insights05:19 - Eric’s work on reaching and supporting students through Michelle Obama’s initiatives09:25 - The evolution of college success initiatives and addressing imposter syndrome11:44 - Mrs. Obama’s vulnerability and authentic storytelling in inspiring students13:36 - The impact of school counselors in nurturing student potential17:09 - Challenges faced by school counselors and how to improve visibility and support20:00 - The importance of growth mindset and inclusive narratives about college access22:17 - Celebrating cultural identity and diversity in America’s Latino communities25:16 - Exploring Latino masculinity, culture, and shared heritage27:30 - Current projects, including AI tools supporting college financing and student decision-making30:01 - Future of AI in education and counseling support33:09 - Teaching digital literacy, ethics, and responsible AI use34:39 - Practicing presence amid a busy life and embracing ongoing progress36:06 - Final reflections on the vital role of school counselors and educators38:36 - Closing thoughts with inspiring quotes about learning and life Thank you for listening! Embrace authenticity, support mental health, and continue shaping future leaders.

Join Matthew, Roberto and special guest Ryan Marshall as they explore the multifaceted world of school counseling, emphasizing advocacy, boundaries, grief, and building supportive networks. This episode offers deep insights into the emotional and professional journeys of educators dedicated to student success. Connect with Ryan at ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-marshall-755029160/⁠ Email us at: [email protected] Follow Matthew Instagram:@counselor.mcclain Follow Roberto Instagram: @raaggie Linktree: linktr.ee/raaggie Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Connections 17:09 Hot Takes on Counseling and Education 26:11 Passion Areas in School Counseling 34:03 Advocacy and Support Networks 40:16 Recognizing Limits and Setting Boundaries 44:04 The Importance of Therapy and Support 46:07 Connecting with Students and Building Relationships 50:13 Navigating Grief and Providing Support 54:11 Celebrating Connections and Professional Growth 01:05:25 Inspiration from Passionate People 01:08:27 The Importance of Grief and Loss Conversations 01:10:51 Building Connections and Relationships

Join Matthew, Roberto, and special guest Steve Sharp as they explore leadership, advocacy, mental health, and the power of curiosity in education. This engaging conversation offers insights into personal growth, systemic change, and the importance of relationships in school counseling. Connect with Steve Shap at: https://linktr.ee/stvsharp Email us at: [email protected] Follow Matthew Instagram:@counselor.mcclain Follow Roberto Instagram: @raaggie Linktree: linktr.ee/raaggie Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Steve Sharp 02:58 Hot Takes and Personal Insights 06:12 Steve's Career and Contributions 12:05 Reflections on Relationships and Advocacy 17:50 The Importance of Curiosity in Leadership 26:58 Embracing Vulnerability and Collectivism 28:51 Navigating Global and Domestic Concerns 30:45 The Role of Leadership in Education 32:44 Finding Hope Amidst Challenges 35:09 Personal Practices for Mental Well-being 39:15 In Progress: Building Better Systems 43:11 Creating Spaces for Leadership and Growth resources: Redesign Schools to be Anti-Racist - https://www.corwin.com/books/designing-antiracism-281092Lies Worth Living: The Zero Suicide Approach - https://www.corwin.com/books/lives-worth-living-28107650+ Tech Tools for School Counselors - https://www.corwin.com/books/50-tech-tools-263015

Meet Matthew & Roberto In Progress, because we are always under construction, and hear about what we currently have in progress for this new podcast and why we are excited to celebrate National School Counseling Week. Email us at: [email protected] Follow Matthew Instagram:@counselor.mcclain Follow Roberto Instagram: @raaggie Linktree: linktr.ee/raaggie