51. Navigate College Smarter with Ryan Moore

How do you find the right college without losing your mind—or your money?

College advisor and former D1 coach Ryan Moore joins Ian Bowen to break down the eight-step roadmap that’s helping students and families confidently navigate the complex journey from high school to college.

Drawing from 20 years of collegiate coaching and admissions experience, Ryan reveals:

1. Why finding a school that feels right matters more than its division level. 
2. How D3 schools might be your secret weapon. 
3. The biggest financial aid myths—and what families actually end up paying.
4. The exact eight steps to reduce stress and make smart college decisions.
5. What coaches, admissions counselors, and universities really look for in applicants.

Key Takeaways:

1. Fit over fame. The right school isn’t always the most prestigious—it’s the one aligned with your goals, passions, and personality.
2. D1 isn’t everything. Great athletes exist in every division. Focus on academics, culture, and long-term growth.
3. Start early. Conversations about goals and college fit should begin as early as 9th grade.
4. Be well-rounded. Volunteer work, multi-sport participation, and strong communication skills help students stand out.
5. Post-enrollment support matters. Success doesn’t stop at acceptance—ongoing guidance helps students adapt and thrive.

Timestamps:

00:00 - 05:10 – Meet Ryan Moore, founder of On Track College Advising
05:10 - 10:30 – Why most families wait too long (and what it costs them)
10:30 - 15:15 – From D3 athlete to D1 coach: Ryan’s background
15:15 - 20:00 – Division myths: Why parents only aim for D1
20:00 - 28:50 – The 8-Step Selection Success process: Discover to Select
28:50 - 35:00 – Financial aid reality: “No one pays sticker price”
35:00 - 42:15 – Campus visits: When, why, and what to ask
42:15 - 48:10 – What colleges really look for in student applicants
48:10 - 54:00 – Post-enrollment coaching: Making sure students don’t quit
54:00 - 59:30 – Helping students and families agree on the right choice
59:30 - End – Final advice: Confidence comes from clarity and preparation

Connect with Ryan Moore:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-moore-4ba2113a/
Website: https://ontrackcollegeadvising.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ontrackcollegeadvising/ 

Connect with Ian Bowen:

Website: https://thepositivepersistence.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ianrbowen/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ianrbowen?lang=en
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PositivePersistence-ch8fk