Podcast #87 Choosing Alaska over Debp, Podcasts

EP#87: Choosing Alaska Over Student Debt: Camden’s Journey to Financial Freedom

Janet Maltbie
Camden’s view from his room in Alaska

Summary:

I’ve got a fresh story on the horizon for you this week. In this episode, I catch up with Camden Chernisky, a 24-year-old Clevelander who traded indecisive college days and student debt for an adventurous summer as a supervisor at Princess Tours in Alaska.

Camden’s story is a must-listen for anyone contemplating student loans or debating the next step after high school.

Here’s what you’ll discover in this episode:

· Camden’s Big Leap: He left college when he realized he didn’t know what he truly wanted to do—and didn’t want to waste time or rack up debt figuring it out. Instead, he’s working in Alaska, paying down his loans and taking in some seriously stunning mountain views.

· Alaska Job Perks: Not only does Camden save money (no rent to pay!), but he’s living in a cultural melting pot with coworkers from all around the world and gets to hike, explore nature, and even plans to cash in on a post-season cruise for free!

· Real-World Advice for Students: Camden urges high school seniors to “make sure you know what you want to do” before going to college. If you’re unsure, there are plenty of exciting opportunities out there—just like Alaska!

Plus, Camden shares some fun details—like hoping to spot bears (so far, just some close calls), adjusting to life without his dog Onyx, and his plans for next summer. Spoiler: He’s already looking forward to coming back for another Alaskan adventure!

P.S. Got thoughts or questions about alternative paths to paying off student loans? Add a comment—we love hearing from you!

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Podcasts

EP#86: Beyond College: How One Mom Helped Her Daughter Build a Dream

Janet Maltbie
Emilie Stack and her mother, Erin Stack, Co-Owners of Emilies Coffee House and Wine Bar

Summary:

In this special Mother’s Day episode of the No Loan Zone podcast, host Janet Maltbie sits down with Emilie Stack—owner of Emilie’s Coffee House and Wine Bar in Avon Lake, Ohio—to explore an inspiring alternative to the traditional college route.

With the unwavering support and partnership of her mom, Emilie skipped college to follow her entrepreneurial passion straight out of high school.

Together, they transformed an old bank into a vibrant community hub, fostering an atmosphere centered on real conversation—no laptops allowed on weekends!

Here’s what you’ll find in this episode:

🚫 Ditching the College Path
Not everyone learns best in a classroom. Emilie talks candidly about her decision to skip college and dive into real-world experiences instead, from working at local cafes and pizzerias to opening her own business at just 18. Her message? It’s okay not to know your path at 17!

🤝 Lessons You Can’t Get in School
Emilie credits her mom not only with emotional encouragement but with practical business sense you can’t learn in a lecture hall. From finding the perfect location, guiding big decisions, to being an equal partner in this adventure, Mom’s role was (and is!) irreplaceable.

☕ From Comfort Zone to Community Hub
Emilie shares how her mom’s unwavering support helped turn a former bank building into a welcoming space for coffee, conversation, and community. Together, they handpicked furniture, set a “no laptops on weekends” rule, and prioritized real connection—making Emilie’s feel more like a home than any coffee chain ever could.

💬 Advice for Parents
Emily offers heartfelt advice: Don’t push college if your child’s not ready or interested. Consider trades, community college, or just give them time to figure things out. Most importantly, “look at your kid just as they are—and build on that.”

Ready for some inspiration—and maybe a happy tear or two?

Listen to the full episode, and if you’re ever in Avon Lake, stop by Emilie’s. She’s always up for a chat…and yes, she’ll give you a tour!

Happy Mother’s Day!
And if your student is feeling lost about careers or colleges, remember—Janet is just an email away at janet@lifeworkcareerservices.com.

P.S. Got thoughts or questions about alternative paths to success? Add a comment—we love hearing from you!

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Podcasts

EP#85: Student Debt Solutions: Camden’s Alaskan Summer Job

Janet Maltbie
Photo by Joris Beugels on Unsplash

Summary:

In this latest episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Camden Chernisky, a 24-year-old from Cleveland who is choosing adventure over debt. Camden is heading to Alaska for a summer job, seeking financial independence and new experiences. Here’s what you can learn from his journey:

3 key takeaways:

🌟 Take a Leap of Faith: Camden emphasizes the importance of trying new things. Venturing into the unknown can be a rewarding experience both personally and financially.

💡 Explore Creative Financial Solutions: By working as a supervisor at the Princess Holland Tours Lodge, Camden is not only earning a steady income but also enjoying benefits like covered housing and meals, helping him save and manage debt.

🌐 Gain Experience and Adventure: Beyond the financial aspect, Camden values the opportunity to explore new locations, having previously lived in Columbus and Philadelphia. This Alaskan adventure adds another chapter to his life story.

If you’re considering alternative ways to pay for education or manage debt, Camden’s story might inspire you to explore similar opportunities. Listen to the full episode to embark on this journey with Camden and discover how unique paths can lead to financial freedom.

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EP#84: Deciding Between College and Hands-On Experience

Janet Maltbie

Summary:

I’m working with an Ohio high school student. He is about to graduate from high school and wondering if he should go to college or get a job. He’s also concerned about getting into debt. Is it best for him to go to college or get hands on practical experience instead? Can AI help him decide?

To find out I asked AI, Claude 3.7 Sonnet for help. It features a new step-by-step analysis to decision making. It considers factors you wouldn’t necessarily consider. I then uploaded the analysis to Notebook.lm and created this podcast. Listen to the recommendations or download the analysis below.

Building Race Car Engines AnalysisDownload

3 key takeaways:

🤝 Consider a Hybrid Approach: A hybrid approach career planning combines practical experience and structured learning. This can provide a well-rounded foundation for your career.

🌐Evaluate the Location and Industry landscape: Where you gain experience matters. Consider the surrounding environment and culture. It can significantly impact your opportunities.

📚 Upgrade your Skills and Knowledge: Technology and industry trends are constantly evolving. Staying adaptable and proactive about your own development is key.

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EP#83: Caleb’s $30,000 Alaskan Summer Job

Janet Maltbie

Photo by Kathrine Coonjohn on Unsplash

Summary:

Janet Maltbie hosts a podcast discussing an innovative approach to saving for college tuition. Caleb, a psychology major, has saved nearly $30,000 by working six months each year. He works as a tour coach driver for Princess Tours in Alaska. This job aligns with his academic schedule, providing a built-in gap year annually. Princess Tours assists employees in obtaining a commercial driver’s license. Caleb plans to continue this routine through grad school, highlighting the benefits of strategic seasonal work.

3 key takeaways:

🌐 Skill Enhancement & Opportunities: Through this job, Caleb gains valuable skills, and with Princess Tours offering CDL training. It’s a win-win. It’s a reminder of the potential in seeking unconventional paths that blend personal growth with professional development.

🚍 Strategic Employment: Caleb works as a tour coach driver in Alaska during the summer months. This allows him to focus on academics during the school year without the need for a part-time job.

💸 Debt-Free Approach: By saving close to $30,000 each summer, Caleb covers his undergraduate education costs. And he also plans to continue this approach through grad school. He’s setting a strong financial foundation for his future.

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