SUMMARY
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In this episode, I speak with Ben Wildavsky, a seasoned expert in education policy and a visiting scholar at the University of Virginia School of Education and Human Development. Ben shares insights from his new book, "The Career Arts: Making the Most of College, Credentials, and Connections,” new from Princeton University Press in November 2023 which delves into making the most of college through career credentials and connections.

We explore the value of college education in today's economic landscape, discussing the balance between acquiring broad skills and targeted skills that the job market demands. Ben's perspective is rooted in extensive research and personal experiences, making our conversation not only informative but also deeply relatable for anyone thinking about the true value of higher education.

Ben also opens up about the concept of social capital and its critical role in career advancement, especially for first-generation college students. He provides practical advice on how students can build their networks and leverage these connections to enhance their career prospects.

This discussion is particularly close to my heart as we navigate the complexities of preparing students for a world that values both academic and practical skills. Ben's thoughtful approach to these topics, combined with his genuine passion for education, makes this episode a must-listen for parents, students, and educators alike.

Join us as we unpack the tools necessary for turning educational investments into successful careers.

TAKEAWAYS
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00:02:21 - Early years and lessons on success

00:07:12 - Discussion on high school to college transition statistics

00:19:11 - Three important skills students should acquire in college

00:34:04 - Advice to parents about college preparation for their children

QUOTES
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"I still believe there is a strong case for taking on a moderate amount of debt for college. You're young, acquiring skills that the marketplace rewards. Borrow money, earn your degree, then get a job and start paying it back. You've invested in what economists call human capital."

"Growing up, the notion of upward mobility and the American dream was apparent to me. My father, a child of immigrants, managed to go from modest beginnings to becoming a professor and owning a house in Oakland Hills. It taught me that with fortune and hard work, higher education can propel you forward."

"It's not just about having a degree or specific skills. If you don't know anyone or can't communicate your abilities, it's hard to advance. Building networks, especially for those without inherited privileges, is crucial. It's about who you know, who can vouch for you, and who can open doors to opportunities."

ABOUT MINDFUL MONEY
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Do you struggle with money? You’re not alone.
Money is a means, not an end. It’s a necessity of life for sure, but more money does not always guarantee a “good life”. Money enables many aspects of modern life, but as a dominant consideration it becomes destructive.
The paradox is that more time and energy spent on personal finance does NOT create better outcomes. Unlike many other parts of life, we can’t create better outcomes by being smarter, spending more time, or putting in more effort.
Join Mindful Money author and experienced 40-year investor Jonathan DeYoe as he shares stories from artists, authors, entrepreneurs, and other advisors about how they mindfully minimize their need to think about money and get more out of life.
If you aren’t happy with your finances, feel like money takes more time that it should, or want to place your financial decisions into the broader context of your life, this show is for you.
Each episode will draw the line between the “enough” activities that the academics tell us are additive to family outcomes, and those “little bit more” efforts that take time and sap energy, but do NOT improve outcomes.

GUEST RESOURCES
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Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ben.wildavsky/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wildavsky/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/benwildavsky/
Twitter - https://twitter.com/Wildavsky

Book Mentioned:
The Career Arts - https://press.princeton.edu/books/hardcover/9780691239798/the-career-arts

MINDFUL MONEY RESOURCES
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Website - https://mindful.money/
Jonathan DeYoe on LinkedIn - http://linkedin.com/in/jonathandeyoe
Mindful Money on Twitter - https://twitter.com/MindfulMoney_Ed
Mindful Money on Facebook - http://facebook.com/MindfulMoneyPlan
Mindful Money on Instagram - http://instagram.com/mindfulmoneyplan
Mindful Money on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/MindfulMoney

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Podcast Production by FullCast: https://fullcast.co