Anna Gisetti interviews Monica Bryant, an experienced elementary school counselor from Nevada. Monica shares her journey from teaching to school counseling, highlighting her leadership roles in state and national school counselor associations. She discusses her passion for making students feel seen and heard, particularly at the elementary level, and recommends diverse picture books that support social-emotional learning.

Bryant emphasizes the importance of self-care and setting boundaries, advocating for school counselors to say "no" and protect their mental health. She discusses overcoming challenges in educational settings by focusing on what's best for students and maintaining clear communication.

The conversation explores Monica's strategies for preventing burnout, her love of travel, and her advice for new school counselors. She encourages professionals to build their programs gradually, be confident in their expertise, and remember that leadership comes in many forms. The episode offers an inspiring look into the world of school counseling.

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Anna Gisetti interviews Nick Brummett, a dedicated middle school counselor from Kansas, during the 2025 American School Counselor Association conference in Long Beach. Nick shares his journey into education, inspired by the safe haven school provided during his parents’ divorce, and details his transition from teaching to counseling. He emphasizes the importance of student voice and leadership, recounting stories of students initiating positive change within their school and community. Nick discusses his involvement in state-level school counseling leadership, the value of professional connections, and the impact of mentors who encouraged him to take on leadership roles. The conversation also addresses challenges like imposter syndrome and burnout, with Nick offering practical self-care strategies such as exercise, therapy, and building supportive relationships. The episode concludes with advice for new counselors: build connections, take things one step at a time, and prioritize self-care.

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Gretchen Slaughter, a veteran school counselor with 21 years of experience. Slaughter shares her journey from aspiring lawyer to passionate high school counselor, highlighting her work at Bear Creek High School in Jeffco. The conversation centers on her transformative concurrent enrollment program, which has grown from three classes to 32, providing students with free college credits and expanding educational opportunities.

Slaughter discusses the importance of career longevity, advocating for teachers, and supporting students' academic and personal growth. She emphasizes the need for self-care, recognizing burnout, and finding passion within the counseling profession. Through her work, she has helped create pathways for students to access higher education, particularly for families who might have previously seen college as out of reach.

The episode offers insights into the challenges and rewards of school counseling, with Slaughter's infectious enthusiasm and commitment to student success shining throughout. She provides practical advice for counselors on maintaining professional resilience, building supportive programs, and creating meaningful educational experiences for students.

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