Agency Intelligence

In this episode of the Stuff About Money podcast, Erik Garcia, CFP®, welcomes back longtime guest and college funding expert John Hupalo from MyCollegeCorner.com. As Erik navigates the emotional rollercoaster of planning for his own child’s college costs, he brings listeners along for a candid conversation about the realities of paying for school when savings and cash flow aren’t enough. From the tension between dreams and debt to that Rodrigue Blue Dog artwork hanging behind John in New York, this episode blends practical advice with real-world emotion. Erik and John dive deep into the differences between federal Parent PLUS loans and private student loans—unpacking the risks, benefits, repayment structures, and emotional consequences of each. They also share smart strategies for comparing options, planning payments, and managing expectations. Whether you’re a parent feeling overwhelmed or a financial professional advising clients, this conversation is packed with insight. If you enjoy the episode, follow t