b'Today, we have a very special and important guest as we dive into college affordability and student loans. Our guest today is a nationally recognized expert on the topic of student financial aid scholarships and student loans. His name is Mark Kantrowitz. You may have seen his name quoted in the media often. He is my go-to expert and resource when it comes to learning more about student loans. Mark aims to deliver practical information, advice as well as tools and resources to students and their families so that they can make informed decisions about planning and paying for college. In the last five years, he has been quoted in more than 5,000 newspaper and magazine articles. He has written for major publications including The Times, The Journal, The Washington Post and Forbes. He\\u2019s also the author of four best-selling books about scholarships and financial aid. We discuss what works for you and against you when it comes to receiving financial aid, demystifying the FAFSA, the free application for federal student aid. What gets factored in? What doesn\\u2019t? How to earn more money as you go through college. Because you may experience a decline of your financial circumstances. Maybe a parent at home loses his or her job? Maybe you lose your job? How do you apply for more financial aid and where can you find free money for school? For more information visit www.somoneypodcast.com.'