Let’s Talk TRIO

In this episode, we are joined by William (Will) Herrera ... a proud TRIO alumnus, dedicated educator, and co-author of the powerful new book, “Dear First Gen.”
Will takes us through his inspiring educational journey, from his formative years to becoming a graduate of UC-Davis and holding a master's degree from UCLA. As a first-generation college graduate who grew up low-income, Will shares his perspective on the many "firsts" he’s experienced, the challenges he overcame, and the pivotal role that programs like TRIO played in his success.
We dive deep into a critical conversation about financial literacy, exploring the strategies first-gen students need to build sustainable wealth and a lasting legacy. Whether you are a student striving for success, a parent supporting your child’s dreams, or an educator working on the front lines of college access, this episode offers a roadmap for turning dreams into action.
Key Topics Covered:
The First-Gen Experience: How to navigate academic and professional systems while honoring your roots.
Educational Milestones: Reflecting on the path from UC-Davis to UCLA.
Financial Literacy 101: Practical advice on breaking cycles, understanding money, and building first-generation wealth.
Dear First Gen: A behind-the-scenes look at the inspiration and lessons found in his co-authored book.
Connect with Will Herrera & First Gen Legacy
Website: https://firstgenlegacy.com/
Buy the Book!
Community Announcement Links:
TRIO Nation: Your voice is working! While Congress is moving to protect TRIO funding for 2026, we must remain vigilant. Administrative shifts still threaten the stability of TRIO grants. Take action now: Call your Congressional representatives today. Thank them for their bipartisan support and urge them to ensure TRIO programs remain fully funded and operational without delay. Let them know…TRIO Works!
 
Find your Congressional Representative
 
A heartfelt thanks to our individual donors and Patrons on Patreon
Dr. Jamie Motley
Dr. Ryan Barone
Dr. Jeff Nepute
Angelica Vialpando
Angelica Valdez
Rosario Riley
Eric LaMaster
Jeff Kahlden
Felicia Rivera
Rick Martinez
Dawn BlueSky-Hill
Jaded Electronics
 
A huge thanks to our corporate sponsors
TRIOjoblist.com
NOSOTROS Education Center (NEC)
TheTRIOstore.com powered by Proforma
Longsdale Publishing
StudentAccess
 
Cover Art and Voice Over Work
Cover Art: Raul Perez
Voice Over Ad for Longsdale Publishing and StudentAccess: Amelia Castaneda
Voice Over Ad for NOSOTROS Education Center: Karla Sandoval
 
The Let’s Talk TRIO Podcast Team
John Russell: Music Composer, Music Performer, Audio Engineer, and Post-Production Editor
Amelia Castaneda: Script Supervisor, Marketing Manager, Social Media Manager, and Producer
Juan M. Rivas: Executive Producer & Host
 
Follow us on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram
 
Visit the Let’s Talk TRIO Podcast Webpage

In this episode, we sit down with Jesus Maldonado, a powerhouse in the world of educational equity and a long-time champion for students.
As a current Director for TRIO Educational Talent Search and GEAR UP, Jesus brings a wealth of on-the-ground experience to the show. We dive into the day-to-day realities of running these essential programs, the evolving landscape of college access, and how he manages the complexities of supporting first-generation students in a changing educational environment.
Jesus also shares his insights from his extensive history of service with WESTOP. Having served as the organization's President and continuing to contribute in various capacities today, Jesus discusses the importance of professional associations in fueling the advocacy efforts necessary to keep TRIO and GEAR UP strong.
Most importantly, Jesus joins us to provide actionable insights on how to effectively advocate for TRIO programs at both the local and federal levels. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or a student wanting to make a difference, he breaks down practical, meaningful ways to get involved in the movement and ensure these programs continue to thrive for years to come.
Community Announcement Links:
TRIO Nation: Your voice is working! While Congress is moving to protect TRIO funding for 2026, we must remain vigilant. Administrative shifts still threaten the stability of TRIO grants. Take action now: Call your Congressional representatives today. Thank them for their bipartisan support and urge them to ensure TRIO programs remain fully funded and operational without delay. Let them know…TRIO Works!
 
Find your Congressional Representative
 
A heartfelt thanks to our individual donors and Patrons on Patreon
Dr. Jamie Motley
Dr. Ryan Barone
Dr. Jeff Nepute
Angelica Vialpando
Angelica Valdez
Rosario Riley
Eric LaMaster
Jeff Kahlden
Felicia Rivera
Rick Martinez
Dawn BlueSky-Hill
Jaded Electronics
 
A huge thanks to our corporate sponsors
TRIOjoblist.com
NOSOTROS Education Center (NEC)
TheTRIOstore.com powered by Proforma
Longsdale Publishing
StudentAccess
 
Cover Art and Voice Over Work
Cover Art: Raul Perez
Voice Over Ad for Longsdale Publishing and StudentAccess: Amelia Castaneda
Voice Over Ad for NOSOTROS Education Center: Karla Sandoval
 
The Let’s Talk TRIO Podcast Team
John Russell: Music Composer, Music Performer, Audio Engineer, and Post-Production Editor
Amelia Castaneda: Script Supervisor, Marketing Manager, Social Media Manager, and Producer
Juan M. Rivas: Executive Producer & Host
 
Follow us on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram
 
Visit the Let’s Talk TRIO Podcast Webpage

We’re taking the show to the 2026 IATP Conference at ISU! This episode is a vibrant "audio collage" featuring voices from TRIO programs across Idaho. We dive into the latest in student support, legislative advocacy, and the shared mission that keeps this community thriving.
Highlights include:
Short-take interviews with TRIO professionals from across the state.
Special guest cameos by Maurice Pittman and Reinalyn Echon.
Key takeaways on how to empower the next generation of Idaho students.
Are you a TRIO professional? Listen in to hear your colleagues' voices and get inspired for the year ahead!
  
Community Announcement Links:
TRIO Nation: Your voice is working! While Congress is moving to protect TRIO funding for 2026, we must remain vigilant. Administrative shifts still threaten the stability of TRIO grants. Take action now: Call your Congressional representatives today. Thank them for their bipartisan support and urge them to ensure TRIO programs remain fully funded and operational without delay. Let them know…TRIO Works!
Find your Congressional Representative
A heartfelt thanks to our individual donors and Patrons on Patreon
Dr. Jamie Motley
Dr. Ryan Barone
Dr. Jeff Nepute
Angelica Vialpando
Angelica Valdez
Rosario Riley
Eric LaMaster
Jeff Kahlden
Felicia Rivera
Rick Martinez
Dawn BlueSky-Hill
Jaded Electronics
A huge thanks to our corporate sponsors
TRIOjoblist.com
NOSOTROS Education Center (NEC)
TheTRIOstore.com powered by Proforma
Longsdale Publishing
StudentAccess
Special Thanks to...
CSU Online Staff - Alysha Tarantino & Amy Quinn-Sparks
Cover Art and Voice Over Work
Cover Art: Raul Perez
Voice Over Ad for Longsdale Publishing and StudentAccess: Amelia Castaneda
Voice Over Ad for NOSOTROS Education Center: Karla Sandoval
 
The Let’s Talk TRIO Podcast Team
John Russell: Music Composer, Music Performer, Audio Engineer, and Post-Production Editor
Amelia Castaneda: Script Supervisor, Marketing Manager, Social Media Manager, and Producer
Juan M. Rivas: Executive Producer & Host
 
Follow us on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram

Amante’ Cunningham isn’t just talking about change ... he’s building it. A 2024 WKU graduate with a background in Social Media Marketing, Amante’ is leveraging his voice to champion TRIO programs across the Bluegrass State. In this conversation, we dive into his current role at Eastern Kentucky University and explore his deep-rooted commitment to raising awareness for college access. Tune in to hear how Amante’ is utilizing his marketing expertise and TRIO experience to transform his community and advocate for student success.  
Community Announcement Links:
TRIO Nation: Your voice is working! While Congress is moving to protect TRIO funding for 2026, we must remain vigilant. Administrative shifts still threaten the stability of TRIO grants. Take action now: Call your Congressional representatives today. Thank them for their bipartisan support and urge them to ensure TRIO programs remain fully funded and operational without delay. Let them know…TRIO Works!
Find your Congressional Representative
A heartfelt thanks to our individual donors and Patrons on Patreon
Dr. Jamie Motley
Dr. Ryan Barone
Dr. Jeff Nepute
Angelica Vialpando
Angelica Valdez
Rosario Riley
Eric LaMaster
Jeff Kahlden
Felicia Rivera
Rick Martinez
Dawn BlueSky-Hill
Jaded Electronics
A huge thanks to our corporate sponsors
TRIOjoblist.com
NOSOTROS Education Center (NEC)
TheTRIOstore.com powered by Proforma
Longsdale Publishing
StudentAccess
Cover Art and Voice Over Work
Cover Art: Raul Perez
Voice Over Ad for Longsdale Publishing and StudentAccess: Amelia Castaneda
Voice Over Ad for NOSOTROS Education Center: Karla Sandoval
 
The Let’s Talk TRIO Podcast Team
John Russell: Music Composer, Music Performer, Audio Engineer, and Post-Production Editor
Amelia Castaneda: Script Supervisor, Marketing Manager, Social Manager, and Producer
Juan M. Rivas: Executive Producer & Host
 
Follow us on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram
 
Visit the Let’s Talk TRIO Podcast Webpage

What happens after the TRIO program ends and the professional hustle begins? Elijah Mason (formerly Sandoval) returns to the podcast for her second appearance to catch us up on her journey since graduating from CSU in Fall 2024.
Between her role as a Records Intern for the Arapahoe County District Attorney’s office, pursuing a Master’s at Capella University, and navigating the first year of marriage, Elijah offers a masterclass in managing big life transitions with grace (and a little bit of chaos).
Listen to Elijah’s first appearance ("Chaotic and Organized") here: https://letstalktrio.podbean.com/e/organized-chaos-elijah-sandoval-trio-student-support-services-participant-aac/
Community Announcement Links:
TRIO Nation: Your voice is working! While Congress is moving to protect TRIO funding for 2026, we must remain vigilant. Administrative shifts still threaten the stability of TRIO grants. Take action now: Call your Congressional representatives today. Thank them for their bipartisan support and urge them to ensure TRIO programs remain fully funded and operational without delay. Let them know…TRIO Works!
Find your Congressional Representative
NCCU’S Annual Student Access & Success Conference Info
Conference Dates: April 9th - 11th
Register for NCCU 2026 TRIO Student Access and Success Conference
A heartfelt thanks to our individual donors and Patrons on Patreon
Dr. Jamie Motley
Dr. Ryan Barone
Dr. Jeff Nepute
Angelica Vialpando
Angelica Valdez
Rosario Riley
Eric LaMaster
Jeff Kahlden
Felicia Rivera
Rick Martinez
Dawn BlueSky-Hill
Jaded Electronics
A huge thanks to our corporate sponsors
TRIOjoblist.com
NOSOTROS Education Center (NEC)
TheTRIOstore.com powered by Proforma
Longsdale Publishing
StudentAccess
 
Cover Art and Voice Over Work
Cover Art: Raul Perez
Voice Over Ad for Longsdale Publishing and StudentAccess: Amelia Castaneda
Voice Over Ad for NOSOTROS Education Center: Karla Sandoval
 
The Let’s Talk TRIO Podcast Team
John Russell: Music Composer, Music Performer, Audio Engineer, and Post-Production Editor
Amelia Castaneda: Script Supervisor, Marketing Manager, Social Manager, and Producer
Juan M. Rivas: Executive Producer & Host
 
Follow us on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram
 
Visit the Let’s Talk TRIO Podcast Webpage

What does it take to lead a state-wide professional association while managing a university's TRIO programs? Join us as we welcome Bernadine Booky...the Director of TRIO Programs at New Mexico State University. With a deep-rooted history at NMSU - from earning her Bachelor’s and Master’s in Agricultural and Extension Education to her current leadership role - she brings a unique perspective on institutional growth and student advocacy.
Key Highlights:
Navigating a career path from administrative support to executive leadership.
The current landscape of TRIO New Mexico and the importance of professional associations.
Practical advice for managing complex educational programs and supporting diverse student populations.
 
Community Announcement Links:
TRIO Nation: Your voice is working! While Congress is moving to protect TRIO funding for 2026, we must remain vigilant. Administrative shifts still threaten the stability of TRIO grants. Take action now: Call your Congressional representatives today. Thank them for their bipartisan support and urge them to ensure TRIO programs remain fully funded and operational without delay. Let them know…TRIO Works!
Find your Congressional Representative
NCCU’S Annual Student Access & Success Conference Info
Conference Dates: April 9th - 11th
Register for NCCU 2026 TRIO Student Access and Success Conference
A heartfelt thanks to our individual donors and Patrons on Patreon
Dr. Jamie Motley
Dr. Ryan Barone
Dr. Jeff Nepute
Angelica Vialpando
Angelica Valdez
Rosario Riley
Eric LaMaster
Jeff Kahlden
Felicia Rivera
Jaded Electronics
A huge thanks to our corporate sponsors
TRIOjoblist.com
NOSOTROS Education Center (NEC)
TheTRIOstore.com powered by Proforma
Longsdale Publishing
StudentAccess
Cover Art and Voice Over Work
Cover Art: Raul Perez
Voice Over Ad for Longsdale Publishing and StudentAccess: Amelia Castaneda
Voice Over Ad for NOSOTROS Education Center: Karla Sandoval
 
The Let’s Talk TRIO Podcast Team
John Russell: Music Composer, Music Performer, Audio Engineer, and Post-Production Editor
Amelia Castaneda: Script Supervisor, Marketing Manager, Social Manager, and Producer
Juan M. Rivas: Executive Producer & Host
 
Follow us on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram
 
Visit the Let’s Talk TRIO Podcast Webpage

What does it take to go from a first-generation college student to a doctoral graduate leading the very program that supported you? This week, we sit down with Dr. Kevin David Linton, Director of TRIO Student Support Services at Salem State University.
Dr. Linton takes us through the twists and turns of his educational path ... from navigating the cultural shift between private and public high schools to overcoming imposter syndrome at the University of New Hampshire. We discuss the "hidden curriculum" of post-secondary education, the reality of juggling a career while earning a Ph.D., and why he dedicated his life to opening doors for the next generation of students.
Community Announcement Links:
TRIO Nation: Your voice is working! While Congress is moving to protect TRIO funding for 2026, we must remain vigilant. Administrative shifts still threaten the stability of TRIO grants. Take action now: Call your Congressional representatives today. Thank them for their bipartisan support and urge them to ensure TRIO programs remain fully funded and operational without delay. Let them know…TRIO Works!
Find your Congressional Representative
 
NCCU’S Annual Student Access & Success Conference Info
Conference Dates: April 9th - 11th
Register for NCCU 2026 TRIO Student Access and Success Conference
 
TRIO Day Celebrations:
TRIO Day in Colorado
TRIO Day Resources (COE)
Find Your Regional Association
A heartfelt thanks to our individual donors and Patrons on Patreon
Dr. Jamie Motley
Dr. Ryan Barone
Dr. Jeff Nepute
Angelica Vialpando
Angelica Valdez
Rosario Riley
Eric LaMaster
Jeff Kahlden
Felicia Rivera
Jaded Electronics
 
A huge thanks to our corporate sponsors
TRIOjoblist.com
NOSOTROS Education Center (NEC)
TheTRIOstore.com powered by Proforma
Longsdale Publishing
StudentAccess
 
Cover Art and Voice Over Work
Cover Art: Raul Perez
Voice Over Ad for Longsdale Publishing and StudentAccess: Amelia Castaneda
Voice Over Ad for NOSOTROS Education Center: Karla Sandoval
 
The Let’s Talk TRIO Podcast Team
John Russell: Music Composer, Music Performer, Audio Engineer, and Post-Production Editor
Amelia Castaneda: Script Supervisor, Marketing Manager, Social Manager, and Producer
Juan M. Rivas: Executive Producer & Host
Follow us on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram

What happens when a first-generation student doesn’t just beat the odds, but returns to lead the charge for others? In this episode, we sit down with Jefferson Clemmons, Director of the TRIO Educational Talent Search at Lone Star College–Tomball.
Jefferson opens up about the pivotal moments that shaped his path—from the discipline and leadership he forged in ROTC to his personal climb as a TRIO participant. Now a doctoral candidate, he shares the grit and grace required to navigate higher education as a "first." We discuss his journey through his bachelor's and master's programs and how he uses his extensive experience to help today’s students blueprint their own success.
Whether you’re a student looking for a roadmap or an educator looking for heart, Jefferson’s story is a masterclass in how structure, support, and self-belief can change the trajectory of a life.
 
Community Announcement Links:
TRIO Nation: Your voice is working! While Congress is moving to protect TRIO funding for 2026, we must remain vigilant. Administrative shifts still threaten the stability of TRIO grants. Take action now: Call your Congressional representatives today. Thank them for their bipartisan support and urge them to ensure TRIO programs remain fully funded and operational without delay. Let them know…TRIO Works!
Find your Congressional Representative
NCCU Student Access & Success Conference
NCCU 2026 TRIO Student Access and Success Conference
TRIO Day Celebrations:
TRIO Day in Colorado
TRIO Day Resources (COE)
Find Your Regional Association
A heartfelt thanks to our individual donors and Patrons on Patreon
Dr. Jamie Motley
Dr. Ryan Barone
Dr. Jeff Nepute
Angelica Vialpando
Angelica Valdez
Rosario Riley
Eric LaMaster
Jeff Kahlden
Felicia Rivera
Jaded Electronics
A huge thanks to our corporate sponsors
TRIOjoblist.com
NOSOTROS Education Center (NEC)
TheTRIOstore.com powered by Proforma
Longsdale Publishing
StudentAccess
Cover Art and Voice Over Work
Cover Art: Raul Perez
Voice Over Ad for Longsdale Publishing and StudentAccess: Amelia Castaneda
Voice Over Ad for NOSOTROS Education Center: Karla Sandoval
 
The Let’s Talk TRIO Podcast Team
John Russell: Music Composer, Music Performer, Audio Engineer, and Post-Production Editor
Amelia Castaneda: Script Supervisor, Marketing Manager, Social Manager, and Producer
Juan M. Rivas: Executive Producer & Host
 
Follow us on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram
 
Visit the Let’s Talk TRIO Podcast Webpage