Welcome to a special edition of Swoonpies and Money. Today, we’re peeling back the curtain on one of the most consequential—and misunderstood—rituals in higher education policymaking: negotiated rulemaking.
Think of “Neg Reg” as the Department of Education’s version of group therapy—except instead of talking feelings, they’re hashing out the fine print of federal regulations that will have a profound impact on all of us.
To help make sense of it all, Daniel Barkowitz sits down with two of the appointed negotiators who’ve been in the room trying to shape the future of higher education policy. And because every federal rule eventually lands on a campus doorstep, we’ll also check in with the good folks at Mercer University for a ground-level view of how OBBA is starting to ripple through their operations.
So, settle in for this timely episode of Swoonpies and Money—where big policy meets campus reality, and the sausage-making of higher ed gets a little sunlight.
This episode is reminder that SASFAA always has your back, both figuratively and literally. Today you'll hear from Samantha Dunman, aka Dr. Happy, in our Health and Wellness segment on spine health and stress relief. Whether you're sitting at a desk all day, recovering from an injury, or just trying to feel better, your spine is at the center of it all.
Then Sam Hicks, aka Dr. Hicks, discusses how to maintain a strong financial backbone with Brad Barnett in our What Keeps You Up at Night segment. Yes, we know, that’s not a book or movie, but who hasn’t lost a little sleep worrying about money.
In this episode of Swoonpies and Money, we sit down with Amy Barrier, founder of Financial Aid Follies—the unofficial heartbeat of our profession. Amy joins us to share how humor, heart, and a bit of well-placed creativity can bring our community together and remind us why we love this work in the first place. Humble royalty was in the studio, and yes, it shows.
Then, over at the Fantasy Desk, where we cover all things Star Wars. We could do ten episodes in a row on Star Wars and still not make it to Tatooine.And, you’ll have to endure Bill’s sophomoric rambling about Shakespeare, because every episode needs at least one tangent no one asked for.
S2E2 is a mix of humor, humanity, and hyperspace—an episode that reminds us why this professional community works hard, laughs loud, and is like no other.
Grab your favorite beverage or steering wheel, and help us kick off Season 2—bigger, bolder, and still flying proudly by the seat of our pants.
A new season, but same lineup, and even more of an unpredictable mix of insight, laughter, and occasional serious stuff you’ve come to expect. We’re kicking Season 2 off with one of our signature segments—Emily Baldwin’s critically acclaimed “How I Got Here” feature. This week showcases Brenda Ilojiole and Daniel Barkowitz. It’s a thoughtful, inspiring start to the season, with insights and perspectives that remind us why we love this profession.
And to close out our premiere, I’ll be joined by Sam Hicks, who offers a sneak peek at her upcoming SASFAA Webinar on AI Applications in the Financial Aid Office—a timely look at how technology is reshaping the way we serve students.
Of course, it wouldn’t be Swoonpies and Money without banter from our studio lunchroom. You’ll get to eavesdrop on my chat with Josh, SASFAA’s weather guy, as he’s removed from double secret probation and given a promotion and raise here at the podcast.
Well, we made it, 13 episodes in, and somehow the wheels haven’t completely fallen off. The podcast made it through its first season — and not just survived but thrived. That’s right, folks: one remarkably successful season in the books, and we’re just getting warmed up.
In today’s episode, you’ll hear Celena Tulloss reflect on her remarkable time on SASFAA Board. Then we’ll check in with a few of the past state presidents, as they roll off their respective boards. And finally, you’ll get to meet members of the Swoonie team as they pull back the curtain, celebratethe wins, and probably overshare just enough to make you squirm.
It’s the perfect recipe to wrap up Season 1: a little reflection, a dash of humor, and a big ol’ slice of Swoonpie.
In this episode, we’re shining a spotlight on upcoming SASFAA training events in Charlotte, NC on October 6th.
First up, is our conversation with Brenda Brown and Brad Barnett highlighting the Enrollment Management & Legal Issues Forum. EMLIF is designed to help attendees navigate the evolving legal and regulatory landscape while sharpen enrollment management strategy. Registration is still open, and spots are available. To sign up for EMLIF, visit: https://www.sasfaa.org/emlif
Then, Michael Morgan joins us to preview the Leadership Symposium, an intensive program created to develop the next generation of leaders in financial aid.
And because this is a bonus episode, we’re also bringing you an in-depth interview with SASFAA President Joan Bailey, who shares her vision for the year ahead and why vision, leadership and professional development remain so critical.
It’s all packed into this bonus episode—so let’s dive in!
Welcome to Episode 12 of Swoonpies and Money! On ourproduction team, we’ve got two Samanthas: Sam Hicks and Sam Dunman. To keep things straight, we had to hand out a nickname. Sam Hicks, who brings us the segment What Keeps You Up at Night, is already Dr. Sam Hicks. So, SamDunman, our health and wellness expert, was assigned the well-earned title of Dr. Happy.
In this episode, Dr. Hicks sits down with Jaime Missimer,Mississippi State President, to review Sunrise on the Reaping, the newest prequel in The Hunger Games series. Meanwhile, Dr. Happy dives into the power of breath with a colleague from the Daytona Beach, FL health and wellness community.
For the next 54 minutes, you are in good hands; the Doctors are in the house. Take a deep breath, relax, and enjoy Episode 12 of Swoonpies and Money.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone who has attended or is thinking about signing up for SASFAA’s New Aid Officer Workshop. We’re bringing you all the highlights and stories from the recent workshop in Hub City, a.k.a. Spartanburg, SC.
It was the best of times: a one-of-a-kind opportunity for newcomers to Financial Aid to build the foundation for long-term professional success… all while reliving the fun, camaraderie, and high jinks of summer camp. Think of amazingly great karaoke, surprisingly competitive kickball, and even a little badminton — with no broken bones and just a few pulled hamstrings.
Tune in and enjoy our take on the experience, and see why NAOW is legendary with certified core memory.
This week, you’ll hear Part 2 of our NASFAA coverage—and yes, it’s just as packed with fun, insights, and amusing moments as Part 1.
We kick things off with scenes for the 5K charity run for Higher Ground, where the effort was real and the cause was worth every step. Whether you ran, cheered, or found a strategic viewing spot along the course—we had you covered.
Then, it’s time for our first, and last, “Who Is the Coolest Person in Financial Aid?” contest. The nominations were spontaneous, the logic was questionable, and the final verdict… well, you’ll have to hear it to believe it.
Finally, you’ll also get a summer weather forecast from Josh (spoiler alert: it’s hot—because of course it is), and just when you thought things with Josh couldn’t get any wackier, we’re interrupted by a surprise visit from a Back to the Future NAOW attendee. Bring your hoverboard.
It’s NASFAA Part 2…enjoy!
There was a lot to unpack from the NASFAA Conference in Anaheim. So much, in fact, that we’re bringing it to you in two full episodes. This week, you’ll hear a mashup of highlights from the entire week—the cream of our profession losing their minds at the opening session, unscripted moments, sharp insights, and the unmistakable energy that only the SASFAA travel troupe can bring.
And by the way, can you guess which FAA region showed up and stood out? Winner of the 5K race? Trivia team champs? Recipients of all three meritorious achievement awards, and the loudest cheering section at the opening session? Yup. You guessed it, SASFAA took home all the unofficial trophies and left the other associations to wonder, what’s in the water down there?
You’ll hear from an All Star SASFAA cast, including Jackie Copeland, Rachelle Feldman, Daniel Barkowitz, Sharon Oliver, Michael Morgan, Sam Hicks, and a breathless Brad Barnett charging to the 5K finish line. We also have soundbites from NASFAA National Chair Kristi Jovell (present then/past now).
And it was really no surprise to see the high energy, recently appointed NASFAA President & CEO Melanie Story, begin her public festivities encouraging runners by juggling pom-poms, poster signs, cowbells and a large cup of coffee during the 5k. That was five objects with two hands – I think NASFAA got the right person. And most importantly, you’ll hear an inspiring conversation with Jordan Barrera from Higher Ground, NASFAA’s 2025 selected charity. Her story is the soul of this episode—and a reminder of why the work we do matters.
Get ready—NASFAA Part 1 starts now.
Recorded live at the FASFAA Conference, this episode of Swoonpies and Money brings you a mix of vision, reflection, creativity—and yes, with a touch of technical imperfection. Though our gear may have glitched, the FASFAA voices you'll hear cut through with clarity, heart, and purpose.
We begin with the talented Lakeisha Sanders, as she rehearses potential podcast intros and outros full of soul and sparkle. Then, we speak with Sylvia Haas, CEO of Opportunity Community Ability, the conference’s featured charity, in a conversation about connection, dignity, and the deeper purpose.
From there, we shift into powerful leadership perspectives from Alicia Keaton and David Alexander, followed by a live creative jam session with Shannon Jones and Concepta Williamson, as they workshop a fresh, “sassy” idea for a future segment.
We close with a presidential trifecta: President-elect Jessica Ly’s acceptance speech rings out with hope and momentum (gym acoustics and all), and our sit-down with Egan Hansen brings insight, humor, and the occasional unexpected Sand Hill Crane pecking sound, courtesy of our janky AV setup.And finally, we end with a sincere reflection from Past President Mia Mwango, who looks back on her term with grace, gratitude, and vision.
So sit down, relax and relive the energy of the FASFAA Conference—one inspiring voice at a time.
Welcome back, Swoonies!
The crew is finally home after touring the SASFAA region covering the Spring state association conference roadshow, concluding at Camp SASFAA (aka New Aid Officers Workshop). We’re catching our breath but that doesn’t mean we’re slowing down. In today’s episode, we’re back in the studio with our feature entertainment segments.
First up, it’s the second installment of “What Keeps You Up at Night” with Sam Hicks and her guest, Daniel Barkowitz. Today they’re reviewing “She Who Became the Sun”, the epic fantasy novel that’s been lighting up reading lists. From themes and characters to how it connects with the work-life balance we all wrestle with; Sam and Daniel unpack what the book meant to them—and what it might mean for you.
Then, we continue with the second installment of “How I Got Here,” hosted by the calm and always cool Emily Baldwin. Today, she sits down with Erica Harrison-Jones from the College of Charleston and Beth Armstrong from Virginia Tech to talk about their paths into leadership, the turning points that shaped them, and the advice they’d offer to anyone charting their own course in financial aid.
So, whether you’re commuting, unwinding, or just need a break from the inbox—grab your headphones, hit follow, and share a June Swoon with us.
In this joyful stop on our spring tour of the SASFAA states, Swoonpies and Money dives into the vibrant energy of the recent GASFAA conference at the University of Georgia in Athens. Join host Bill Ayers as he unpacks the positivity radiating from GASFAA President Emmilee Mitchell and the GASFAA membership as they embrace the conference uplifting theme: Choose Joy.
This episode is a lively mix of interviews and insights—covering everything from financial aid awareness, NIL, 3D printing, yet more pathetic Wordle obsession talk, and the surprising secret life of a celebrated aid director. Whether you're from Georgia or not, you’re in for 54 minutes of fun, inspiration, and pure Peach State charm. We even managed to nail down Josh, our weather oracle from Kennesaw State. You'll hear his July 4th forecast and the yawning generational gap between him and Bill.
Don’t miss this one—you truly can’t make this stuff up!
The broad reach of Swoonpies and Money is on display in this episode.
On one hand, we’re bringing you the highlights, high notes, and heartfelt moments from the Virginia Association Conference, which features keynote speaker, U.S. Representative Bobby Scott, Ranking Member of the House Education & Workforce Committee. A tireless advocate for education and equity, Congressman Scott brought insight, leadership, and clarity to a critical moment in our field. Bill had the honor of sitting down with him for a chat, and you’ll hear it right here.
On the flip side, we’re also introducing a brand-new segment—Swoonpie Health and Wellness—featuring the multi-talented Sam Dunman. Her first segment, “What Keeps You Up? Nervous System Healing for Better Sleep,” delivers real tools to calm your system and catch some actual, quality sleep.
So press play, tune in and let’s Swoon!
The Swoonies appear to have figured out this podcast thing. Episode #4 marks an actual turning point: the crew has officially shed the opening-week jitters and is clearly having way too much fun behind the mic. Michelle and Bill host a jam-packed lineup of fresh voices and brand-new segments.
First up is the debut of What Keeps You Up At Night, brought to you by Sam Hicks from Coastal Carolina University—exploring why we insist on ignoring a good night's sleep to binge on all things Murder. Then, making a bold entrance is the Fantasy Desk, hosted by Willis Kallay of the University of Georgia. And don’t sleep on the debut of Josh from Kennesaw State, who boldly goes out on a limb and forecasts that it will be hot in the South in his 10-Day SASFAA Weather Forecast.
It’s a night of firsts, and a sign that Swoonpies and Money is just getting started.
Surprise! It’s a bonus episode of Swoonpies and Money!
Because we’re nothing if not impatient and overly caffeinated, we couldn’t wait to spill the tea on recent spring conferences. The Swoonie gang tracked down the leadership of NCASFAA, TASFAA, and MASFAA to get their impressions of their respective events.
But wait—there’s more!
In a move that can only be described as “mildly concerning,” Bill wraps up the show by unleashing an AI version of himself in a bold attempt to future-proof the podcast. The results are... unexpected and may cause fans of the Sound of Music to get up and waltz. You've been warned.
Michelle and Bill are back—and riding high on the (very brief) glory of successfully launching Swoonpies and Money! In this episode, they attempt to rest on their laurels... but quickly discover there is really not much to celebrate. Executive Producer Alex Fuentes joins the party, breaking down Spotify and Apple analytics to uncover who tuned in—and which segment ghosted them entirely - hint: Z.
Plus: the mysterious hooey-hooey guy is unmasked, an enthusiastic new member joins the Swoonie ranks, and we debut a brand-new segment, "How I Got Here," hosted by the ever-insightful Emily Baldwin from the University of Georgia, featuring Katie Conrad from Georgia Tech and Jessica Ly from Florida International University.
Be one of the cool kids and listen now before Swoonie Mania is a thing.
In the debut episode of Swoonpies and Money, co-hosts Michelle and Bill introduce listeners to SASFAA’s brand-new podcast — a space where financial aid, community, and a little Southern flavor come together. They outline what listeners can expect in future episodes, including timely updates, special guests, professional insights, and plenty of laughs along the way.
The episode wraps up with a lively recap of the recent SASFAA Annual Conference, highlighting key moments, memorable sessions, and the magic of reconnecting with colleagues from across the region.