Join us for an engaging episode as we share a compelling story about negotiating remote work arrangements.  Learn how to successfully secure a remote work setup by strategically planning and getting supervisor buy-in. What You’ll Learn:  - Importance of getting buy-in from the right people and presenting a well-thought-out plan in writing- Tips on creating concise proposals, using statistics, and highlighting unique value to the company- Focus on a unique selling proposition when negotiating...

Join us as we explore the lack of awareness among teenagers and young adults about career options beyond college, trades, or the military.  Discover the importance of vocational creativity and empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their future. What You’ll Learn:  - The focus on vocational creativity and helping young adults explore diverse career options beyond traditional paths.- The personalized approach to career curriculums and finding unique opportunities based on...

We explore the art of asking great questions and the importance of effective communication.  Join us as we delve into the world of questioning with expert insights and practical tips. What You’ll Learn: - The significance of understanding the purpose of a question and the types of questions (open-ended and closed)- Tips and examples for using the SQE framework in various situations like job interviews and project meetings- The role of context in avoiding stupid questions and the importance of...

We explore the controversial topic of college education and recent changes in FAFSA requirements.  Questioning the necessity of all students filling out the FAFSA and exploring the financial implications on students and families. What You’ll Learn: - The repeal of the FAFSA graduation requirement in Louisiana and its impact on students and families.- Emphasizing the importance of educating students and parents about options rather than mandating FAFSA completion- The low graduation rates in...

We talk about the recent decision of Ivy League schools to reinstate standardized test requirements like the SAT and ACT, despite prior drops. Discover the motivations behind this choice and the impact it has on applicant filtering and revenue generation. What You’ll Learn:  - Insights into changes in SAT format, such as going digital and adaptive, and shifts in work attitudes post-pandemic.- The impact of the pandemic on work priorities, emphasizes flexibility, family time, and personal...

Join us as we talk about the importance of taking action and making changes to achieve your career goals.  Learn how to move beyond studying and research to start applying for jobs and adjusting your strategies based on results. What You’ll Learn: - The importance of being willing to try different things and make changes in order to reach goals, whether that be in job searching or starting a business.- The need to focus on the ultimate goal and not get caught up in distractions or unnecessary...

Join us for an introspective episode as we reflect on the quote 'live every day like it's your last,' sharing my journey of realizing the importance of incremental improvements and future thinking. What You’ll Learn: - The concept of contentment and finding fulfillment in the present moment versus always striving for more.- The value of setting new goals and constantly improving rather than becoming stagnant at the peak of achievements.- The infinite game of entrepreneurship and the...

Join us in exploring the concept of a Degree Free mindset and the 5 pathways to a successful career without a traditional college degree. What You'll Learn: - Benefits of creating your own apprenticeship and transitioning into building a business- Tips on finding apprenticeship opportunities and buying a business- Creative options for buying existing businesses Take the first step towards a Degree Free career by utilizing the pathways discussed in this episode.  Learn how to build your own...

Join us for an inspiring episode where we discuss feeling unsupported in careers and the importance of seeking advice from successful individuals. Learn how changing your mindset can lead to personal growth and success. What You’ll Learn:  - Importance of learning from others' mistakes and seeking advice from successful individuals- Value of podcasts and books for learning and growth- Effects of lack of career support on employee turnover rates- Significance of being trainable and committed...

In this episode, we explore how degree requirements can hinder qualified applicants and the recent executive order in Massachusetts that aims to eliminate unnecessary degree requirements.  We emphasize the importance of skills-based hiring and how it can lead to more resilient and successful workforces.  Join us as we challenge the notion that a degree is always necessary and encourage listeners to consider their skills and qualifications when pursuing job opportunities. What You’ll Learn:  -...

In this episode, we explore the crucial distinction between working hard and being in the right opportunity.  We dive into personal stories and experiences to underscore the significance of aligning our actions with our goals.  Additionally, we discuss alternative ways to achieve objectives and the importance of intentional decision-making.  Tune in as we inspire you to think outside the box and make intentional choices to pursue your dreams. What You’ll Learn: - Learn the steps to retiring...

Got a question you want answered on the podcast? Ask us at ask.degreefree.co/question and get your question answered on the podcast! We’re diving deep into the false distinction between knowledge and labor in the workplace.  I've got some personal stories to share from my experiences as a firefighter and handyman, shedding light on how knowledge plays a crucial role in seemingly physical jobs. Let's kick things off by challenging the conventional idea of a 'knowledge worker.'  It's time to...

We've got a jam-packed show that's all about breaking down barriers in the job market!  You won't want to miss our deep dive into the increasing demand for jobs and the hurdles that prevent them from being filled.  Discover why hiring managers can be too picky and why candidates should apply even if they don't meet all the qualifications.  I'll be sharing my own journey of not applying to jobs because I thought a college degree was a must-have, only to later realize it wasn't necessary for...

Join us as we delve into the misconception that college graduates have about job opportunities.  We discuss that colleges have given graduates a false sense of security, and address the criticism of the podcast focusing too much on tech careers.  We highlight that Degree Free individuals have a wide range of options and explore the myth that degrees are necessary for most jobs. What you’ll learn:  - The realization is that college graduates are competing with Degree Free individuals for the...

Are high school students stressing over classes that don't contribute to their future life skills? In this episode, we explore the frustration of wasting energy on meaningless pursuits and the importance of parents' guidance. We also delve into the value of branded tech certifications, career opportunities in software tools, and the relevance of subjects in school. Join us for an eye-opening conversation! What you’ll learn: - Discover how SAS and similar companies create certification...

2024’s gonna be crazy! We got all the predictions that you need to know about in today’s episode. To the rise of Degree Free healthcare, AI taking over the world, and more! What you’ll learn: - Explore the concept of down credentialing in medicine, technology, and teaching, and how it has become a viable alternative to a traditional degree.- Discover the driving factors behind down credentialing in the healthcare industry and the accessibility of online education in the technology field.-...

2023 was wild! We’re going over the most important lessons we learned from our podcast guests this year. You should definitely listen to all the episodes. But, if you don’t have time, these are the highlights!  In this episode, we delve into the importance of portfolios and projects for showcasing skills and experience. We take a moment to reflect on Degree Free's incredible year, expressing gratitude to our amazing listeners.  What makes this episode special is that we go a step further,...

In this episode, Linda Le, founder of Creatively Quiet and a recruiter in the defense industry, shares her experience as an introvert and debunks the misconception that introverts are weak. Linda discusses her journey into recruiting, overcoming challenges without a degree, and how she became a top recruiter in her division.   “Hi I'm Linda :) I am currently a recruiter in defense and Founder of Creatively Quiet a mental health brand centered towards amplifying quiet voices. I was a college...

Colleges are the best marketers in the world. Sometimes they market to us without us even knowing. In this episode, we talk about how AP courses are used by colleges to capture students early and get them hooked. What you’ll learn: - Explore the high cost of college degrees, particularly in niche fields like film and photography, and the challenges faced by graduates in finding well-paying jobs.- Find out why pursuing high-value skills and practical choices may be a better alternative to a...

A college degree isn’t necessary for success. In this episode, we go over the growing trend of employers lowering degree requirements and the importance of identifying high-leverage skills. Let's shift the narrative to 'Degree Free' instead of 'college dropout' and emphasize the value of a skill-based society. What You’ll Learn: - Discover how jobs without degrees can be just as lucrative as those requiring a college degree. We debunk the myth that certain jobs are only reserved for college...

In this episode, we discussed three important conversations to have with your child before they spend five and a half years and hundreds of thousands of dollars on a college degree. What You'll Learn: • Determining if the desired job legally requires a degree and exploring alternative paths such as trade schools or online courses.• Weighing the financial implications of pursuing a degree and considering options like apprenticeships or starting a business.• Researching job prospects, salary...

In this episode, we explore the myth that college is the only path to education. We emphasize that education can be obtained in various ways and locations, challenging the idea that colleges monopolize knowledge.  We also delve into the increasing financial literacy and cost-consciousness of the younger generation, questioning the value and affordability of college.  What You’ll Learn: - The perception of college as synonymous with education is debunked, highlighting the flexibility of...

In this episode, we dive into the controversial topic of degree vs. experience. We explore the misleading promises of the college system and the unrealistic expectations many graduates have.What You’ll Learn: - The misconception that a degree is equivalent to experience and guarantees high-paying jobs- The importance of gaining real-world experience and starting at entry-level positions- Our personal experiences of facing lower salaries after college and the need to adapt- Challenging the...

In today's episode, we delve into the concept of 'AI-proofing' a child's career and the role of college in a future dominated by artificial intelligence. We challenge the belief that AI will entirely replace jobs and explore the potential for new opportunities.  What You'll Learn: - Discover the impact of technology, especially AI, on job automation.- Understand why focusing solely on hard skills might not guarantee job security and why a college degree's relevance is shifting in today's...