Episode Overview:
Welcome to Season 2 of Strive Chat! We’re starting things off with an inspiring guest, Allison Gacad—a Loran Scholar, climate journalist, and all-around powerhouse. In this episode, Allison gets real about her journey from a high school student in Toronto to receiving one of Canada’s most prestigious scholarships. She spills all the details about what it takes to stand out in the Loran Scholar Program and shares how it’s completely shaped her life and career.

What You’ll Hear:

• Allison’s Story: Growing up in Toronto as a child of Filipino immigrants, Allison talks about her multicultural upbringing and how it fueled her passion for leadership and environmental activism.
• Breaking Down the Loran Scholar Process
• How the Scholarship Changed Everything
• Her Career Today

Words of Wisdom from Allison:

• Be authentic. Focus on what drives you and how it aligns with the opportunity.
• Practice sharing your story. Whether it’s through writing, mock interviews, or just talking with friends and family, get comfortable articulating your “why.”
• Bet on yourself. Invest in your passions and talk about the work you’re doing—it’s how the right people and opportunities will find you.

Where to Follow Allison:

• LinkedIn: Allison Gacad
• Instagram: @allisongacad
• Website: Linked through her LinkedIn profile.

🎥 Don’t miss Allison’s upcoming docu-series on climate solutions—follow her Instagram for updates!

Quick Thanks:
A big shoutout to Allison for sharing her wisdom, humor, and vulnerability with us. Her story is a reminder that believing in yourself and embracing your journey—no matter how unconventional—can lead to amazing things.

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going:
What resonated most with you from this episode? Drop us a DM, tag us, or leave a review to let us know! And of course, don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode of Strive Chat.

🎧 Ready to be inspired? Hit play now!