Forward with NACCE

40 Episodes
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By: National Association for Community College Entrepreneurship

Tune into Forward with NACCE: Inspiring Entrepreneurial Action with host Dr. Rebecca Corbin, NACCE President & CEO. Sharing the stories and lessons of entrepreneurs and entrepreneurial leaders who uplift their communities, we deliver episodes designed to inspire, empower action, and heal vulnerable communities through community colleges. This podcast invites you into our world, where we view challenges and failures as opportunities. Join us as we work toward a more equitable and prosperous future. #NACCEPodcast | #ForwardwithNACCE

Empowering the Next Generation: AI, Entrepreneurship, and Post-Secondary Success
02/14/2024

Join us as we dive into the intersection of AI, entrepreneurship, and post-secondary education. In this episode, Dr.  Corbin engages in a dynamic conversation with J.D. LaRock and Kene Turner from the Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE). Discover how AI is becoming a powerful tool for young entrepreneurs, bridging gaps in equity and inspiring success. From high school classrooms to successful business ventures, explore the transformative impact of entrepreneurial mindset education. Don't miss the inspiring stories of NFTE alumni building businesses, embracing AI, and creating positive change. 

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The Everyday Entrepreneur Program
01/31/2024

Join us on a trip down memory lane as we revisit this episode from 2021 featuring the founders of the Everyday Entrepreneur Venture Fund (EEVF), Chip and Stuart Weismiller. The Weismilers and Dr. Corbin delve into the backstory of EEVF and discover the inspirations that led to its creation. Fast forward to the present – the Everday Entreprenur Program is now open for 2024 applications! Don't miss the chance to be part of this exciting opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Key Points Discussed in This Episode
Founding Inspiration: Uncover the driving force behind the establishment of EEVF and th...


Nurturing Community Wellness at Haywood Community College
01/24/2024

Join as we explore the transformative "Living Well" program at Haywood Community College. Sara Phillips, Director of HR; Susannah High, Director of Wellness; and Michelle Harris, Director of Marketing and Engagement, share their inspiring journey of prioritizing wellness within their college community. From fostering connections to promoting physical and mental well-being, discover how this program is making a positive impact. Learn about the inclusive approach, budget-friendly strategies, and the culture of support that has turned "Living Well" into a beacon of belonging and self-care. Whether you're in education, marketing, or any profession, there are valuable insights to embrace in...


Decoding Entrepreneurship: Dr. Michael Barbera's Blueprint for Success
01/17/2024

Embark on a journey of entrepreneurial resilience with Dr. Michael Barbera, Chief Behavioral Officer at Clicksuasion Labs, in this episode of Forward with NACCE. From founding his first business at 13 to navigating the complexities of consumer psychology, Dr. Barbera shares strategies for turning challenges into triumphs. Explore the power of objective planning, SMART goals, and the art of creating experiences that forge lasting connections with consumers. Whether you're in business or seeking personal growth, Dr. Barbera's insights provide a roadmap for resilience and success in the ever-evolving entrepreneurial landscape.

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Empowering Lives Through Entrepreneurial Stories and Financial Wisdom, with Amanda Chin Yee
12/06/2023

In this episode, we explore the inspiring journey of Amanda Chin Yee, a passionate leader in entrepreneurship and philanthropy. Discover how Amanda, an immigrant with a background in financial literacy, is changing lives through the Singleton Foundation's innovative initiatives. From captivating short-form videos on Million Stories to the groundbreaking Groove financial wellness platform, Amanda shares stories of resilience, failure, and triumph. Learn how she's breaking barriers and fostering economic mobility through education and empowerment. 

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From Hurricane Winds to Business Wins, with Robert “Bob” DeGroot
11/29/2023

In this episode, Dr. Corbin sits down with Robert “Bob” DeGroot, a seasoned entrepreneur and adventurer. From sailing the Great Loop to weathering the storms of entrepreneurship, Bob shares his fascinating journey and the valuable lessons he's learned along the way. Discover the psychology behind successful selling, the power of differentiation, and why Bob believes every entrepreneur should write a book. Tune in for insights on mindset, resilience, and the unexpected twists that shape an entrepreneurial life. 

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The Entrepreneurial Superpower: Resilience, Creativity, and Wendy's Journey to Success
11/15/2023

Join us on this inspiring episode where Wendy Coulter, CEO and President of Hummingbird Creative Group, shares her incredible journey as an entrepreneur. From facing adversity to becoming a seasoned business owner, Wendy unveils the power of resilience in shaping her success. Host Dr. Rebecca Corbin delves into Wendy's experiences, discussing the challenges of entrepreneurship, the importance of creativity, and the role of mentorship in overcoming obstacles. Learn how Wendy turned setbacks into opportunities, developed a unique brand strategy, and emerged as a leader in the world of business. If you're seeking inspiration, practical advice, and a glimpse into...


The Art of Entrepreneurship, with Susie deVille
10/04/2023

Sometimes you have to get creative to be an entrepreneur. In this episode, hear Susie deVille, founder of The Innovation and Creativity Institute, teach you how to tap into your creativity and elevate your entrepreneurial experience.

This episode was originally released on Aug. 31, 2022.

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Unveiling the Secrets of Social Media Success, with Student Kyle Barber
09/27/2023

In this episode,  Dr. Corbin's diving into the journey of Kyle Barber, a young and talented social media enthusiast. Kyle shares his experiences as a student at Alamance Community College, his role as a social media management intern at Earfluence, and his insights into the ever-evolving world of content creation. Join us as we explore the importance of resilience, adaptability, and embracing unexpected opportunities in the digital age. If you're curious about the world of social media and entrepreneurship, this episode is a must-listen!

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Unlocking the Power of AI in Entrepreneurship
09/20/2023

In this episode, Dr. Corbin is talking with Ryan Groves, Head of Entrepreneurship and Co-Founder of Slyngshot, to discuss the transformative potential of AI in entrepreneurship. They delve into the impact of AI on job creation, the role of AI in simplifying the entrepreneurial journey, and how it can empower individuals from all backgrounds to turn their ideas into viable businesses. Join the conversation as they explore the future of entrepreneurship in the AI era and how you can be part of this exciting journey.

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Revolutionizing Education with Augmented Reality
09/13/2023

In this episode, Dr. Corbin is featuring the inspiring stories of two remarkable individuals, Minden Fox and Dirk Soma, who are spearheading innovative projects at their respective community colleges.

Minden Fox, Marketing and Entrepreneurship Instructor at Laramie County Community College, shares her journey from a family of entrepreneurs to pioneering augmented reality solutions for manufacturing and healthcare education. Discover how her passion for entrepreneurship and innovation has led to a 200% increase in enrollment in her program.

Dirk Soma, Business Program Coordinator at Hawaii Community College, takes us on a journey to explore sustainable housing solutions...


Embracing AI and Entrepreneurial Mindsets for Future-Ready Education, with Ted Dintersmith
09/06/2023

In this episode, Dr. Corbin welcomes Ted Dintersmith, a visionary thinker and advocate for transformative education. Ted shares insights from his extensive journey across all 50 states to explore the current state of education and the profound impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on learning. Ted highlights the critical need for a shift in education to focus on developing entrepreneurial mindsets and essential life skills rather than emphasizing standardized testing. He discusses the rapid advancements of AI, exemplified by GPT-3.5, and how it outperforms humans in various high-stakes exams. Furthermore, he emphasizes the importance of community colleges in leading the charge...


Empowering Communities Through Tech Education: The CodeBoxx Approach
08/30/2023

In this episode, Dr. Corbin is talking with  Brian Peret, Program and Campus Director at CodeBoxx, about the crucial role of technology education in today's world. Brian shares insights into how CodeBoxx is bridging the gap in tech education, focusing on both entrepreneurship and workforce development. He highlights the need to redefine technology as an essential skill across industries and explores the importance of teaching not just technical skills, but also the philosophies and mindset that drive success in the ever-evolving tech landscape. As a champion of inclusivity, Brian discusses how CodeBoxx aims to make tech accessible to all, b...


How a Fox Costume Inspired an Artistic Entrepreneurial Journey
08/23/2023

Join us as we dive into the journey of Chris Vitiello, also known as the Poetry Fox, who has woven a remarkable story of entrepreneurship through his unique practice of writing poems on demand using a manual typewriter while donning a giant fox costume. From pursuing a graduate degree in poetry to publishing books, Chris's path took an unexpected turn when a discarded fox mascot costume led him to create an engaging art project that has now produced over 46,000 poems. Get ready to be inspired by Chris's unconventional journey and discover how embracing creativity can lead to incredible entrepreneurial...


Unveiling Creativity: Insights from Hit Songwriter Michael Peterson
08/16/2023

Join us in this inspiring episode of Forward with NACCE as Dr. Corbin sits down with accomplished recording artist and hit songwriter Michael Peterson. Discover the journey of a creative mind and how trusting your instincts can lead to unexpected success. Michael shares his insights on the power of creativity, the importance of giving back, and the role of serendipity in entrepreneurial endeavors. Get ready to dive into the world of storytelling, songwriting, and using AI in the creative process. Tune in to uncover the lessons learned and the wisdom gained from over four decades in the music industry...


Empowering Change: How SolveCC Transforms Students into Social Innovators
08/02/2023

 In this inspiring episode, we delve into the transformative power of Solve Community Challenges (SolveCC). Our guest, Adrean Cajigas, a student at Modesto Junior College, shares his firsthand experience with SolveCC and how it shifted his perspective on leadership and social change. Mojdeh Eskandari, the Founder of SolveCC, explains how the platform provides a sandbox for students to experiment, collaborate, and apply classroom learning to real-world problems. Dr. Eva Bagg, the Superintendent President of Barstow Community College, and Dr. Caron Sada, a Psychology teacher in the Maricopa County Community Colleges, highlight the impact of SolveCC on student engagement and c...


Unleashing Earning Potential: Exploring Franchise Opportunities for Lifelong Entrepreneurship, with Steve Wright
07/26/2023

Join Steve Wright, a renowned no-cost matchmaker, as he shares the untapped potential of franchise ownership that breaks the barriers of retirement and offers continuous, life-long earning opportunities. Steve shares his inspiring career journey and the importance of curiosity in navigating entrepreneurial paths. Gain valuable insights into finding the perfect franchise fit, leveraging digital marketing, and building a thriving business. Don't miss out on the transformative power of franchises in shaping a successful future!

This episode was originally released on Aug. 24, 2022.

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Part Two: Celebrating the North Carolina Women Business Owners Hall of Fame, with Wendy Coulter
07/19/2023

Join us for part two of our conversation with Wendy Coulter, where we delve into her entrepreneurial journey and her inspiring work in the nonprofit sector. Discover the story behind the North Carolina Women Business Owners Hall of Fame and how it has evolved into a remarkable nonprofit organization dedicated to honoring women's achievements. Wendy shares her passion for empowering women in business and highlights the impact of their leadership style on the workforce. Be inspired by the remarkable stories of inductees and learn how this program is expanding to other states. Tune in to gain insights into the...


Part One: Unveiling the Power of Branding and Differentiation, with Wendy Coulter
07/12/2023

Join us for an insightful discussion on the importance of branding and differentiation with esteemed leader and branding expert, Wendy Coulter. In this episode, Dr. Corbin engages in a captivating conversation with Wendy about the true essence of a brand and how it extends beyond logos and taglines. Discover the secrets to creating a powerful brand that leaves a lasting impression and learn how differentiation can significantly impact the value of your business. Don't miss this episode packed with valuable insights and practical tips for entrepreneurs and business owners.

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Unlocking Economic Mobility: The Power of Collaboration Between Community Colleges and Employers, with Sheneui Weber
07/05/2023

In this episode,  Dr. Corbin is talking with Sheneui Weber, a leader in the field of workforce development. Discover the importance of bridging the gap between community colleges and employers to empower students and drive economic mobility. Gain insights into best practices for curriculum design, internships, and work-based learning, and explore the role of entrepreneurial mindset in creating successful pathways for students. Don't miss this engaging conversation on transforming education and fostering meaningful connections between education and employment.

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Empowering Entrepreneurs and Building Ecosystems, with Kathy Deacon
06/28/2023

In this episode of Forward with NACCE, Dr. Corbin is joined by Kathy Deacon, a change agent and entrepreneur who is making a remarkable impact. Discover Kathy's inspiring journey from international development to local communities, driven by a passion for opening up opportunities for entrepreneurs. Learn about the Advancement Foundation and its mission to support entrepreneurs in small and rural communities. Explore the transformative Gauntlet program and its network of mentors, empowering entrepreneurs to thrive. Gain insights into future aspirations, including STEM-focused initiatives and placemaking efforts. Get inspired to take action and make a difference in your own entrepreneurial...


Revolutionizing Mental Health and Entrepreneurship: An Innovation Jam Story with Dr. Kim Freeze
06/21/2023

In this episode, Dr. Corbin interviews Dr. Kim Freeze, the Dean of Science and Applied Technology at Rogue Community College in Oregon. Dr. Freeze shares her journey from being an entrepreneur to her groundbreaking work in mental health and entrepreneurship. Discover how she leverages the entrepreneurial mindset and her innovative approaches to address mental health issues among community college students. Get insights into the transformative power of the Innovation Jam, a national model for promoting creativity and growth. Join us as we explore the intersection of mental health, entrepreneurship, and education.

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Building Resilience through Community: A Journey of Entrepreneurship and Faith, with Mical and Chris Baez
06/14/2023

In this inspiring episode, join Dr. Corbin as we dive into the incredible story of Mical and Chris Baez, a couple who found strength, resilience, and purpose through their community and faith. Mical, a former medical school graduate, shares her courageous decision to pivot from a medical career to protect her health and the well-being of her unborn child during the COVID-19 pandemic. Chris, with a passion for fitness and coaching, reveals his path from the military to becoming an entrepreneur.

Learn about their business model, which encompasses online fitness, online nutrition coaching, their innovative mobile gym...


Constructing a Bright Future: Tackling Worker Shortages through Entrepreneurial Thinking, with Brian Turmail
06/07/2023

A career in construction can be very financially rewarding, but many are hesitant to enter the career that doesn't require a college degree. This has led to a shortage of workers, and solving this shortage requires some entrepreneurial thinking. In this episode, Associated General Contractors of America's Brian Turmail provides a look at some of the model community college programs around the nation that encourage students to choose a career in construction and achieve their education goals, too.

This episode was originally released on October 12, 2022.

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Turning Passion into Profit: Amanda Cheney's Success with Amanda's Best Friend
05/31/2023

In this episode, Amanda Cheney shares her story of transitioning from a path in veterinary medicine to becoming a successful entrepreneur. Amanda's passion for animals and helping people shines through as she recounts her childhood love for animals and her desire to pursue a career focused on their well-being. However, life took an unexpected turn when her parents were diagnosed with cancer, altering her trajectory and prompting her to explore other avenues. Despite challenges and major shifts in her academic and professional journey, Amanda's determination and resilience allowed her to find her true calling.

Join us for...


Disrupting the Agricultural Industry with Voice Recognition Technology, with Matthew Rooda
05/24/2023

In this episode, Dr. Corbin's talking with Matthew Rooda, an entrepreneur with a passion for agriculture and healthcare. Matthew shares his inspiring journey of developing groundbreaking technology to address the issue of pig mortalities on farms. Through extensive experimentation and problem-solving, Matthew and his team created a voice recognition system and a behavioral tracking wearable that could save newborn piglets from harm. Learn about the challenges faced during the prototyping phase, including recording piglet vocalizations, developing distinguishing algorithms, and finding a reliable adhesive for the wearable device.  Discover how Matthew's background in agriculture, coupled with his experience in healthcare, l...


Preparing Students for the Changing Landscape of Higher Education: Insights from Dr. Morna Foy, President of the Wisconsin Technical College System
05/17/2023

In this episode, Dr. Corbin welcomes Dr. Morna Foy, the president of the Wisconsin Technical College System, to discuss the changing landscape of higher education. Dr. Foy shares her non-traditional path to becoming a higher education leader and highlights the unique aspects of technical colleges in Wisconsin. They explore the importance of technical education in addressing workforce challenges and providing skills to meet employer demands and how the Wisconsin Technical College System focuses on education for work by offering programs based on demonstrated needs and job openings in the area. She emphasizes the commitment of technical colleges to help...


How to Pursue Your Passion Without Quitting Your Day Job, with Alex DeNoble
05/10/2023

In this episode, Dr. Corbin is joined by Dr. Alex DeNoble, an author, distinguished professor, and expert in nonprofit entrepreneurship. Dr. DeNoble shares his personal story of growing up on the East Coast and eventually moving to the West Coast to pursue a career in higher education and entrepreneurship. He also talks about his extensive travels around the world, which have given him unique insights into entrepreneurship in different cultures. Dr. DeNoble's most recent book, The Entrepreneur Within, focuses on helping people with an entrepreneurial spirit experience the joys of entrepreneurship without quitting their day jobs. In this conversation...


Innovative Approaches to Higher Education: How Entrepreneurial Thinking is Revolutionizing Community Colleges, with Lisa Kiplinger Kennedy
04/26/2023

In this episode,  Lisa Kiplinger Kennedy, the regional director for business and entrepreneurship for the Inland Empire Desert Region in Southern California, talks about how community colleges can keep up with the constantly changing technology and labor market, and how partnerships with industries can provide real-time information about their needs instead of using outdated labor market information. Hear Lisa's experience in teaching business management classes and starting a medical device company with her father, which gave her a taste of entrepreneurship, the importance of cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset, and the need for community colleges to come together collaboratively to c...


Exploring Rural Community Multidisciplinary Storytelling with Natalie Hodge of Rudy's Girl Media
04/19/2023

This week, Dr. Corbin is talking with Natalie Hodge, founder and owner of Rudy's Girl Media, a multimedia content development company. Natalie talks about her journey in the multimedia field and how her passion for working behind the camera grew while she was living in Los Angeles and working in independent film and television production. She later landed back in her hometown, Martinsville, V.A., and was able to bring some of the things she learned in larger markets to her rural community. Natalie also shares how she has been able to employ people who have come through Patrick...


The Importance of Purpose and Network for Impactful Change, with Ranjith Abraham
04/12/2023

In this episode, Ranjith Abraham shares his insight on leadership and community colleges. As a believer in living a purposeful life, he emphasizes the importance of having a heart to serve people and putting people first, which distinguishes leadership from management. He discusses how his gifts of music and inspiring people enable him to benefit others and his connection to entrepreneur Sam Thayanaigam, who started a successful business called Parts Life. Ranjith explains the impact of community colleges on immigrants, who find comfort in them and build a strong foundation before transitioning to university. Tune in for insightful and...


Be Yourself: The Power of Authenticity with CJ Scarlet
04/05/2023

In this episode on embracing one's identity and living authentically, Dr. Corbin is talking with CJ Scarlet, the Vice President of Harmony: NC LGBT+ Allied Chamber of Commerce. Hear about the importance of authenticity and how it can help you achieve your full potential from CJ's personal journey to advocacy work, and explore how the power of being true to oneself can create a supportive community for all. 

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Creating Leaders While Fighting Food Insecurity, with Nourish International's Tanesha Cameron-Cole
03/29/2023

More than 34 million people in the U.S. are food insecure, and Tanesha Cameron-Cole is a leader working to change that. In this episode, the Executive Director of Nourish International, a nonprofit organization fighting food insecurity, shares her personal experience with community-based work and how it led her to Nourish International. Hear her discuss the impact of food insecurity on communities in the US, particularly school students, and how Nourish International is making its impact while also providing leadership development opportunities for college students. Plus, Tanesha explains how the "secret sauce" of Nourish International's program helps students develop skills...


Learning, luck and opportunity: Creating careers in entertainment, with Larry Butler
03/22/2023

Did It Music's Larry Butler grew up playing music in Centerville, Ohio, and he eventually outgrew it, too.  After moving to Los Angeles to pursue his music career, he turned his band into a successful business and found his success in managing others' careers. In sharing his career journey through the music industry, Larry explains the importance of learning your craft, making mistakes out of the spotlight before going into the big city and how lessons from music can be applied to any career.

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Empowering Underrepresented Groups in Tech and DEI in Business, with Pam Bingham
03/15/2023

In this episode, Pam Bingham, senior program manager at Intuit, shares her passion for personal finance and how important it is for individuals to have basic personal finance skills. Intuit is making DEI a major strategy in everything they do, and Pam shares her work in DEI in tech, including leading an apprenticeship program for underrepresented groups in technology and driving the Girls with Code summer immersion program. Hear how customers look for Intuit to mirror them in some ways, and how they are working to ensure that they embody the belonging piece of DEI in everything they do, f...


Navigating the Risks and Rewards of Entrepreneurship with Cynthia Wheaton
03/08/2023

Cynthia Wheaton is an entrepreneur, writer and speaker, and she was inspired to pursue her own business ventures by her father's entrepreneurial spirit. In this episode,  learn about the importance of having a business plan and considering all contingencies before taking financial and time risks, the power of an entrepreneurial mindset and the importance of having co-collaborators who bring different skills and perspectives to a business partnership.

Check out Cynthia's book, "Are You Ready to Start Your Own Business?: A Sanity Check for Those Who Dream of Self-Employment"

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Empowering Small Businesses: The Role of Community Colleges and CDFIs
03/01/2023

This week, Dr. Corbin is joined by Russ Seagle, the executive director of the Sequoia Fund, a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) that supports small businesses. As an outsider in school, Russ was always thinking of ways to make money and start businesses. After a few failed attempts, he found success with a side hustle that eventually turned into a full-time business. His wife suggested that he apply for the small business center director job at the local community college, where he worked for 12 years, helping hundreds of small businesses avoid the same mistakes he made. Eventually, he ended...


Creating Impactful Partnerships for Economic Development with the Venn Collaborative's Jim Woodell
02/22/2023

In this episode, Dr. Corbin's talking with Dr. Jim Woodell, founder and CEO of Venn Collaborative, about his career journey and entrepreneurial experiences. Woodell shares his background in academic technology and distance learning and his discovery of how colleges and universities drive community and economic transformation. He also discusses his decision to earn a PhD at the age of 40 and his work at the Association of Public and Land Grant Universities. Woodell talks about his entrepreneurial journey, starting with his consulting work on online professional development for teachers and then founding Venn Collaborative with family and friends. He shares...


Empowering the Next Generation of Leaders through Experiential Learning with Nick Bayer, Founder and CEO of Saxbys
02/15/2023

Happy National Entrepreneurship Week! To celebrate, Dr. Corbin's talking with Nick Bayer, founder and CEO of Saxbys, a Philadelphia-based coffee company that serves as an experiential learning platform. In this episode, Bayer shares his story of inspiration and growth and how his experience as a first-generation college student led him to create a company that empowers the next generation of leaders and entrepreneurs through experiential learning. Hear about his journey as an entrepreneur, his desire to blur the line between his personal and professional pursuits, the importance of impacting other people's lives and the value that comes from doing...


Unlock Your Creative Potential with Sonia Rodriguez Thorn: Why the Pandemic Forced Us to Reimagine
02/08/2023

When the pandemic forced Sonia Rodriguez Thorn, a first-generation American and long-time college employee, to break out of her comfort zone, she found the strength and creativity to innovate and thrive. In this episode, learn how Sonia used her background in resilience and persistence to become a leader in innovation, how she leveraged the power of direct selling during the pandemic to help people fill their needs and the strategies Sonia developed to navigate the college system and help others successfully do the same.

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