The Next Step: Leaping to Adulthood https://nextstepready.podbean.com This podcast is focused on everything you *should* learn in school - but you likely didn't.  What EXACTLY is a deducible?  How does insurance ACTUALLY work?  What is the difference between a defined-benefit and defined-contribution plan? What does a good job offer look like?  How do I negotiate a job?

We'll cover these topics AND more. We'll break down complicated concepts with industry professionals - you know, like what are the differences between a HMO, PPO, and HSA?

Discover more about the Next Step Program here.

Get the book here!

]]> Thu, 02 Apr 2026 06:30:00 -0500 https://podbean.com/?v=5.5 en Copyright 2026 All rights reserved. Business:Careers 1440 episodic Nichole Harken Nichole Harken No false https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/image-logo/21889964/Untitled_1400_x_1400_px_62swk.png The Next Step: Leaping to Adulthood https://nextstepready.podbean.com 144 144 Episode 13: Break Up With Your Parents Episode 13: Break Up With Your Parents https://nextstepready.podbean.com/e/episode-13-break-up-with-your-parents/ https://nextstepready.podbean.com/e/episode-13-break-up-with-your-parents/#comments Thu, 02 Apr 2026 06:30:00 -0500 nextstepready.podbean.com/24875c57-1a65-3ac7-90bc-539f97768519 In Episode 13 of the Next Step podcast, the host encourages soon-to-be graduates to initiate “breaking up with your parents” conversations to align expectations after graduation, especially around finances, taxes, insurance, vehicles, cell phones, legal documents, and medical needs.  A printable cheat sheet is provided, and the next episode features career services professionals.  Conversation Guide

]]> In Episode 13 of the Next Step podcast, the host encourages soon-to-be graduates to initiate “breaking up with your parents” conversations to align expectations after graduation, especially around finances, taxes, insurance, vehicles, cell phones, legal documents, and medical needs.  A printable cheat sheet is provided, and the next episode features career services professionals.  Conversation Guide

]]> Nichole Harken false No 964 14 full Episode 12: I borrowed, I’m graduating, HELP, Part III of III Episode 12: I borrowed, I’m graduating, HELP, Part III of III https://nextstepready.podbean.com/e/episode-12-i-borrowed-i-m-graduating-help-part-iii-of-iii/ https://nextstepready.podbean.com/e/episode-12-i-borrowed-i-m-graduating-help-part-iii-of-iii/#comments Thu, 26 Mar 2026 06:30:00 -0500 nextstepready.podbean.com/777ae15b-65e2-3fd4-a89d-e53cee8afe72 In Episode 12 of the Next Step podcast, Nikki finishes a conversation with Tim Bakula, a university director of financial aid, about preparing to repay student loans after graduation. They emphasize that loan repayment and financial systems can be confusing even for educated adults, so graduates should take time to learn, ask questions, and use trusted sources such as their bank and loan servicer. Tim warns about scams and predatory consolidation offers, advising listeners not to click links or share personal information and to verify requests directly with known sources. They also note the importance of watching for the 1098-E form to report student-loan interest at tax time. Tim encourages graduates to set personal financial goals that balance repayment with saving, investing, and life plans, and urges students to make informed college and borrowing decisions by consulting financial aid offices.

]]> In Episode 12 of the Next Step podcast, Nikki finishes a conversation with Tim Bakula, a university director of financial aid, about preparing to repay student loans after graduation. They emphasize that loan repayment and financial systems can be confusing even for educated adults, so graduates should take time to learn, ask questions, and use trusted sources such as their bank and loan servicer. Tim warns about scams and predatory consolidation offers, advising listeners not to click links or share personal information and to verify requests directly with known sources. They also note the importance of watching for the 1098-E form to report student-loan interest at tax time. Tim encourages graduates to set personal financial goals that balance repayment with saving, investing, and life plans, and urges students to make informed college and borrowing decisions by consulting financial aid offices.

]]> Nichole Harken false No 884 13 full Episode 11: I Borrowed, I'm Graduating, HELP!! (Part II of III) Episode 11: I Borrowed, I'm Graduating, HELP!! (Part II of III) https://nextstepready.podbean.com/e/episode-11-i-borrowed-im-graduating-help-part-ii-of-iii/ https://nextstepready.podbean.com/e/episode-11-i-borrowed-im-graduating-help-part-ii-of-iii/#comments Thu, 19 Mar 2026 06:30:00 -0500 nextstepready.podbean.com/a2902526-1b7e-3de6-b19d-fba76f7aaf9c In Episode 11 of the Next Step podcast, the host continues a conversation with Tim Bakula, Director of Financial Aid, about what graduating seniors should do regarding student loans. Tim advises students to identify their loan servicer, review how much they have borrowed, and develop a realistic repayment plan and budget based on expected job, earnings, and living costs. He explains that financial aid offices can still help graduates after the six-month grace period and recommends StudentAid.gov to find servicer and loan details. Tim discusses education debt as “good debt” when it results in a completed degree, notes federal loan interest rates around 6%, and describes how on-time payments affect credit. He outlines standard 10-year repayment, income-based options, the ability to change plans, and loan forgiveness programs like PSLF.

]]> In Episode 11 of the Next Step podcast, the host continues a conversation with Tim Bakula, Director of Financial Aid, about what graduating seniors should do regarding student loans. Tim advises students to identify their loan servicer, review how much they have borrowed, and develop a realistic repayment plan and budget based on expected job, earnings, and living costs. He explains that financial aid offices can still help graduates after the six-month grace period and recommends StudentAid.gov to find servicer and loan details. Tim discusses education debt as “good debt” when it results in a completed degree, notes federal loan interest rates around 6%, and describes how on-time payments affect credit. He outlines standard 10-year repayment, income-based options, the ability to change plans, and loan forgiveness programs like PSLF.

]]> Nichole Harken false No 962 12 full Episode 10: You are NOT Alone (Bonus, Long Episode) Episode 10: You are NOT Alone (Bonus, Long Episode) https://nextstepready.podbean.com/e/episode-10-you-are-not-alone-bonus-long-episode/ https://nextstepready.podbean.com/e/episode-10-you-are-not-alone-bonus-long-episode/#comments Tue, 17 Mar 2026 06:30:00 -0500 nextstepready.podbean.com/385a91ea-800d-3d84-9d1f-fa93b89734df Nichole Harken false No 4397 11 full Episode 9: I borrowed. I'm graduating. HELP!! Episode I of III Episode 9: I borrowed. I'm graduating. HELP!! Episode I of III https://nextstepready.podbean.com/e/episode-9-i-borrowed-im-graduating-help-episode-i-of-iii/ https://nextstepready.podbean.com/e/episode-9-i-borrowed-im-graduating-help-episode-i-of-iii/#comments Thu, 12 Mar 2026 06:23:29 -0500 nextstepready.podbean.com/dae401d9-432b-332b-8b7c-61d0abeb8dbc On episode nine of the Next Step podcast, host Nikki interviews Tim Bakula, a financial aid director at a Midwestern comprehensive university, about preparing for adulthood and managing student loans after college. Using the idea “find out before freaking out” (FOBFO) they define key terms: loan servicers, forbearance, grace period, and consolidation/payment structure. This is the first in a three-part series.

]]> On episode nine of the Next Step podcast, host Nikki interviews Tim Bakula, a financial aid director at a Midwestern comprehensive university, about preparing for adulthood and managing student loans after college. Using the idea “find out before freaking out” (FOBFO) they define key terms: loan servicers, forbearance, grace period, and consolidation/payment structure. This is the first in a three-part series.

]]> Nichole Harken false No 987 10 full Episode 8: Tell Me What They're Looking For, Part III Episode 8: Tell Me What They're Looking For, Part III https://nextstepready.podbean.com/e/episode-8-tell-me-what-theyre-looking-for-part-iii/ https://nextstepready.podbean.com/e/episode-8-tell-me-what-theyre-looking-for-part-iii/#comments Thu, 05 Mar 2026 06:30:00 -0600 nextstepready.podbean.com/d43f33fc-0a13-3ca8-b57f-f6b695d9e67d Nichole Harken false No 900 9 full Episode 7: Tell Me What They're Looking For, Part II Episode 7: Tell Me What They're Looking For, Part II https://nextstepready.podbean.com/e/episode-7-tell-me-what-theyre-looking-for-part-ii/ https://nextstepready.podbean.com/e/episode-7-tell-me-what-theyre-looking-for-part-ii/#comments Tue, 03 Mar 2026 06:30:00 -0600 nextstepready.podbean.com/e46723f8-593b-3e8d-b68e-f2fba2e143ff Nichole Harken false No 950 8 full Episode 6: Tell Me What They're Looking For, Part I Episode 6: Tell Me What They're Looking For, Part I https://nextstepready.podbean.com/e/episode-6-tell-me-what-theyre-looking-for-part-i/ https://nextstepready.podbean.com/e/episode-6-tell-me-what-theyre-looking-for-part-i/#comments Thu, 26 Feb 2026 06:30:00 -0600 nextstepready.podbean.com/24ede441-4abe-3882-9294-ad9048d93730 Episode six of the Next Step podcast features host and guest David Leto of the Palmer Group discussing career paths and what employers seek in new hires, especially recent graduates. Leto shares his journey from an organizational communication major to become the CEO of the Palmer Group. The conversation emphasizes the value of being teachable, adaptable, and willing to learn as industries and job roles evolve.  The episode previews a bonus continuation on March 3 and the regular episode drop on March 5.

]]> Episode six of the Next Step podcast features host and guest David Leto of the Palmer Group discussing career paths and what employers seek in new hires, especially recent graduates. Leto shares his journey from an organizational communication major to become the CEO of the Palmer Group. The conversation emphasizes the value of being teachable, adaptable, and willing to learn as industries and job roles evolve.  The episode previews a bonus continuation on March 3 and the regular episode drop on March 5.

]]> Nichole Harken false No 980 7 full Episode 5: The Interview Episode 5: The Interview https://nextstepready.podbean.com/e/episode-5-the-interview/ https://nextstepready.podbean.com/e/episode-5-the-interview/#comments Thu, 19 Feb 2026 06:30:00 -0600 nextstepready.podbean.com/e146dbf3-42c7-3a75-a53e-b3c6fe01bd5c In Episode five of the Next Step podcast, the host provides detailed guidance on navigating job interviews, starting from the pre-screening stage to post-interview follow-up.  The host advises on the dos and don'ts of interview behavior, provides tips for virtual interviews, and discusses the significance of a handwritten thank you note post-interview. The episode ends with a teaser for the next episode featuring David Leto, president and CEO of the Palmer Group, who will provide insights into the job search process and what employers are looking for.

]]> In Episode five of the Next Step podcast, the host provides detailed guidance on navigating job interviews, starting from the pre-screening stage to post-interview follow-up.  The host advises on the dos and don'ts of interview behavior, provides tips for virtual interviews, and discusses the significance of a handwritten thank you note post-interview. The episode ends with a teaser for the next episode featuring David Leto, president and CEO of the Palmer Group, who will provide insights into the job search process and what employers are looking for.

]]> Nichole Harken false No 1115 1 6 full Episode 4: Cover Letters, References, and Professional Portfolios Episode 4: Cover Letters, References, and Professional Portfolios https://nextstepready.podbean.com/e/episode-4-cover-letters-references-and-professional-portfolios/ https://nextstepready.podbean.com/e/episode-4-cover-letters-references-and-professional-portfolios/#comments Thu, 12 Feb 2026 06:30:00 -0600 nextstepready.podbean.com/a0e36e11-fcbb-3dad-94bd-b733df939844 In episode four of the Next Step podcast, the host guide listeners on creating impactful cover letters, securing references, and building professional portfolios. The episode emphasizes the importance of tailoring cover letters to job descriptions and organizational values. It also advises on how to choose references and using a reference form .Finally, the host guides the listener in creation of online portfolios that showcase professional skills. The episode concludes with a teaser on preparing for interviews.

 

]]> In episode four of the Next Step podcast, the host guide listeners on creating impactful cover letters, securing references, and building professional portfolios. The episode emphasizes the importance of tailoring cover letters to job descriptions and organizational values. It also advises on how to choose references and using a reference form .Finally, the host guides the listener in creation of online portfolios that showcase professional skills. The episode concludes with a teaser on preparing for interviews.

 

]]> Nichole Harken false No 919 5 full Episode 3: The Resume Episode 3: The Resume https://nextstepready.podbean.com/e/episode-3-the-resume/ https://nextstepready.podbean.com/e/episode-3-the-resume/#comments Thu, 05 Feb 2026 06:10:08 -0600 nextstepready.podbean.com/d3409a5c-40f0-3ff5-b28d-5c3680275728 In this episode of the Next Step podcast, the host offers an in-depth guide on creating effective resumes. Emphasizing the importance of tailored resumes for different industries, the host suggests consulting career centers, advisors, and professors. Key sections to include are education, work experience, technology proficiencies, and any leadership or extracurricular activities. Specific formatting guidelines and best practices for each section are provided. The episode concludes with a teaser for the next topic: cover letters, references, and professional portfolios.

]]> In this episode of the Next Step podcast, the host offers an in-depth guide on creating effective resumes. Emphasizing the importance of tailored resumes for different industries, the host suggests consulting career centers, advisors, and professors. Key sections to include are education, work experience, technology proficiencies, and any leadership or extracurricular activities. Specific formatting guidelines and best practices for each section are provided. The episode concludes with a teaser for the next topic: cover letters, references, and professional portfolios.

]]> Nichole Harken false No 784 4 full Episode 2: Staying Organized: The Application Process Episode 2: Staying Organized: The Application Process https://nextstepready.podbean.com/e/staying-organized-the-application-process/ https://nextstepready.podbean.com/e/staying-organized-the-application-process/#comments Tue, 20 Jan 2026 17:25:39 -0600 nextstepready.podbean.com/e21cddab-e18e-39b7-996a-b1ac3651f049 In this episode we discuss managing multiple job applications emphasizing the importance of staying organized by using a dedicated folder in the cloud and  detailed application tracker. The host also discusses the role of Applicant Tracking Systems and AI, advising job seekers to adapt their materials and remain authentic. Application Tracker

]]> In this episode we discuss managing multiple job applications emphasizing the importance of staying organized by using a dedicated folder in the cloud and  detailed application tracker. The host also discusses the role of Applicant Tracking Systems and AI, advising job seekers to adapt their materials and remain authentic. Application Tracker

]]> Nichole Harken false No 618 3 full Episode 1: The Work Before the Job Search Episode 1: The Work Before the Job Search https://nextstepready.podbean.com/e/the-work-before-the-job-search/ https://nextstepready.podbean.com/e/the-work-before-the-job-search/#comments Fri, 09 Jan 2026 15:22:22 -0600 nextstepready.podbean.com/811a7907-5003-3021-bc97-807458b38be8 Episode one focuses addressing recent college graduate mixed emotions and decision fatigue as they transition from academia to the workforce. It emphasizes the importance of networking, leveraging connections, and identifying personal priorities—whether focusing on preferred job roles or geographic locations. 

]]> Episode one focuses addressing recent college graduate mixed emotions and decision fatigue as they transition from academia to the workforce. It emphasizes the importance of networking, leveraging connections, and identifying personal priorities—whether focusing on preferred job roles or geographic locations. 

]]> Nichole Harken false No 885 2 full What are we here for? What are we here for? https://nextstepready.podbean.com/e/what-are-we-here-for/ https://nextstepready.podbean.com/e/what-are-we-here-for/#comments Fri, 09 Jan 2026 11:19:29 -0600 nextstepready.podbean.com/70dca2e7-dfec-3f8d-b3fd-9d27d38efc1d In 1999, after graduating with a bachelor's degree, the speaker recounts an experience that made her realize just how unprepared for adulting she was. This led to struggles throughout their twenties and thirties before gaining clarity in their forties. The experience inspired the creation of the 'Adulting for Real' podcast, aimed at teaching essential life skills, from health insurance to job offer negotiation, to aid young adults in their transition to adulthood.

]]> In 1999, after graduating with a bachelor's degree, the speaker recounts an experience that made her realize just how unprepared for adulting she was. This led to struggles throughout their twenties and thirties before gaining clarity in their forties. The experience inspired the creation of the 'Adulting for Real' podcast, aimed at teaching essential life skills, from health insurance to job offer negotiation, to aid young adults in their transition to adulthood.

]]> Nichole Harken false No 195 1 full