Listen to NSHSS Scholars Connect podcast episodes featuring student voices, expert insights, and tips on scholarships, leadership, and college success. "Inspiring students to stand out, step up, and take action."
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In a world defined by rapid change, the ability to pivot has become one of the most valuable leadership skills. In this live episode of the NSHSS Scholars Connect Podcast, recorded at Scholar's Day 2026, Sunny Nastase, a seasoned corporate leader and executive coach, shares insights from her journey navigating high-level leadership, transformation, and resilience. From leading within global organizations to coaching executives worldwide, Sunny brings a unique perspective on how to stay grounded while adapting to uncertainty. Join us as she explores how young leaders can build resilience, embra
In this episode of the NSHSS Scholars Connect Podcast, we sit down with Eljin Rhymes, an NSHSS scholarship recipient, industrial engineer, and entrepreneur, to talk about what it really looks like to move from college into the professional world. Eljin shares his journey from being a high-achieving student at Florida A&M University to working in manufacturing and innovation at Owens Corning, while also building his own Black-owned business, E3 Essentials LLC. Drawing from his experiences as a scholar, leader, and entrepreneur, Eljin offers practical advice on preparing for the workforce, navig
In this episode of the NSHSS Scholars Connect Podcast, we sit down with Sheronda Dorsey, a retired CIA C-suite executive, leadership coach, and former Associate Director of Talent, to explore how today’s students can build the skills and mindset needed to succeed in a rapidly changing world. With more than 35 years of experience leading organizational transformation, developing talent at scale, and coaching individuals through complex career moments, Sheronda shares a grounded, practical perspective on the future of work. She breaks down what students actually need to thrive, from adaptability
In part two, the conversation continues by looking ahead to the skills students will need in an AI-driven world. Fabian explains why human capabilities, judgment, emotional intelligence, storytelling, creativity, and adaptability are becoming more important, not less, as technology transforms the future of work. While AI can help identify patterns and process information, it cannot replace human context, ethics, lived experience, or meaningful connection. This second episode builds on Part One by showing students how to strengthen their unique human edge, lead with confidence, and stay relevan
In part one of this two-part episode of the NSHSS Scholars Connect Podcast, we sit down with Fabian DeRozario, Executive Director of the NSHSS Foundation and global leadership facilitator, to explore the foundational skills that shape long-term success. Drawing from his experience working with nearly 220 organizations worldwide, Fabian challenges the traditional focus on GPA and accolades, highlighting the importance of communication, relationship-building, and critical thinking. He also addresses the pressure many high-achieving students face, offering practical insight on recognizing burnout
In this episode of the NSHSS Scholars Connect Podcast, we’re joined by Will Geiger, the Co-founder and CEO of Scholarships360, to uncover one of the most common questions students ask: What are scholarship reviewers really looking for? Drawing from years of experience in admissions and scholarship selection, Will breaks down the application process, shares insider insight on how decisions are made, and offers clear, actionable advice to help students stand out in a competitive pool. We’ll explore what makes a compelling essay, how to showcase impact even with limited experience, and the qualit
In this episode, we talk with Piper Coffey, VP of Adolescent Clinical Services at Skyland Trail, for Mental Health Awareness Month, to talk about something many students experience but don’t always know how to navigate, what to do when you’re struggling, or when someone you care about is.
To kick off Mental Health Awareness Month, we sit down with Tanya M. Odom, an internationally recognized educator, thought leader, and coach, to explore one of the biggest challenges students face during college applications and early career steps: self-doubt.
In this episode of the NSHSS Scholars Connect Podcast, we spotlight Mahdi Rahimi and Nahid Karimi, the founders of EmpowerHer, an initiative aimed at empowering Afghan women through education and mentorship.
In this episode of the NSHSS Scholars Connect Podcast, we sit down with Latoya Henry and Becca Bullen from the Captain Planet Foundation to explore how students can make a real impact on the environment, starting with simple, everyday actions.
In this episode of NSHSS Scholars Connect, we sit down with Senior Administrator of Scholarships Alexis Anderson to offer students a clear and supportive guide to strengthening their scholarship applications.
In this episode of the NSHSS Scholars Connect Podcast, we spotlight three outstanding NSHSS Student Ambassadors, Nainika Manthena, Adaliz Ramirez, and Blaise Bowers, for an honest, relatable conversation about juggling school, leadership roles, and personal well-being.
In this special episode of the NSHSS Scholars Connect Podcast, we sit down with Kimberly Hackett, the 2025 Claes Nobel Educator of the Year, to explore what truly helps students thrive, academically, personally, and beyond the classroom.
In this episode of NSHSS Scholars Connect, hosts Leah Mordehai and Nellie Fouksman share their inspiring journey of activism through their organization, Slavic Voice 4 Ukraine.
In this episode of the NSHSS Scholars Connect Podcast, we sit down with Ludvig Nobel to explore the enduring legacy of the Nobel family and what it means for today’s students.
In the first episode of the NSHSS Scholars Connect Podcast, we sit down with James (Jim) Lewis, co-founder of NSHSS, to explore the story, vision, and purpose behind one of the world’s most global and inclusive academic honor societies. From its beginnings 20 years ago to the thriving international network it is today, Jim shares what inspired the creation of NSHSS, what continues to drive its mission, and why community is essential for the next generation of scholars. Listeners will hear first-hand insights about supporting young people in a rapidly changing world, the importance of recognizi
Discover the NSHSS Scholars Connect podcast with student stories, scholarships, leadership, and college tips. New episodes start January 13, 2026. Music produced by NSHSS ambassador Saige Leggette.
