Anchored by the Classic Learning Test: Recent Episodes
CLT
Anchored is published by the Classic Learning Test. The show features CEO Jeremy Tate engaging in conversations with leading thinkers on issues at the intersection of education and culture, as well as headline news in the world of education. New discussions every Thursday. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts.
In this episode, Jeremy speaks with Miriam Washut, winner of the inaugural Presidential 1776 Award competition and daughter of Kyle Washut, president of Wyoming Catholic College and a member of CLT's Board of Academic Advisors. Learn about her journey to the White House and how her love for reading and classical education shaped her success.
References:
- Killer Angels by Michael Shaara
- Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy
In this episode, Adam Mangana, President and CEO of OptimaEd, returns to The Anchored Podcast to speak with Jeremy about the role of technology in education, the future of AI, and how to navigate tech decisions in schools.
References:
– "Adam Mangana on Launching the World's First Virtual Reality Charter School"
– www.optimaacademy.online
In this episode, Soren speaks with Russ York, Head of the Ambleside School in Fredericksburg, TX. Russ shares about his journey from public schools to Charlotte Mason philosophy, emphasizing the importance of a formative education rooted in humility and Mason's three principles of education: atmosphere, discipline, and life.
Thank you to the sponsor of today's episode: History 250. Visit their website to delve deep into America's rich and complex history: https://www.history250.org/
References:
– For the Children's Sake by Susan Schaeffer Macaulay
– Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky
In this episode, we are continuing our series of School Spotlights with an interview of Rich Meyer, President of JSerra Catholic High School, and Patrick Reidy, VP of Mission & Faith. Soren speaks with them about JSerra's unique position, its innovative programs, and the school's dedication to faith-based education in shaping future leaders.
References:
– Searching for and Maintaining Peace by Father Jacques Philippe
– The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis
In this episode, Soren speaks with Nadya Williams, author of Christians Reading Classics: An Introduction to Greco-Roman Classics from Homer to Boethius, about the importance of reading the pagan classics through a Christian lens. They explore how slow, attentive reading of ancient texts can shape moral imagination and civic virtue.
Nadya is Books Editor at Mere Orthodoxy and Interim Director of the MFA in Creative Writing at Ashland University. Be sure to grab a copy of Christians Reading Classics wherever books are sold!
In this episode, Dr. Allen C. Guelzo speaks with Jeremy about the origins of historical study, the importance of history in shaping virtue, and the significance of narrative in education, especially within the classical tradition. Dr. Guelzo also shares about his purpose and process in writing The Golden Thread, a two-volume history of the Western tradition he co-authored with James Hankins. Be sure to check out The Golden Thread Substack to learn more about Dr. Guelzo's work.
In this episode of The Anchored Podcast, Andrew Shivone, President of the St. Jerome Institute, shares about his transformation from a young student who questioned the purpose of education into a leader who is helping revitalize Catholic and classical education in America today. He and Jeremy explore the history, challenges, and future of Catholic education, emphasizing the importance of integrating faith and tradition into the curriculum.
In this episode of The Anchored Podcast, Michael Rose, Founding Headmaster and Superintendent of Cincinnati Classical Academy, shares his journey from architecture studies to education, emphasizing the importance of moral formation and aesthetic beauty in schools. Discover how Cincinnati Classical is shaping the next generation with a focus on virtue, history, and craftsmanship.
In this episode, Noah Tyler sits down with Dr. Ashley Berner, the co-founder and director of the Johns Hopkins Institute for Education Policy (IEP) and Associate Professor of Education. Dr. Berner talks about the importance of educational pluralism, the role of values in school success, and the significance of a content-rich education. She explores historical shifts in American education, the impact of curriculum choices, and how assessment can drive better learning outcomes.
References:
– Pluralism and American Public Education: No One Way to School by Ashley Berner
– Educational Pluralism and Democracy by Ashley Berner
– Left Back: A Century of Failed School Reforms by Diane Ravitch
Today on The Anchored Podcast, Soren speaks with James Shuls, Head of the Education Liberty Branch of the Institute for Governance and Civics at Florida State University. Dr. Shuls shares his journey from disengaged public school student in Missouri to a leading education policy expert. He discusses the history of school choice, its relationship to the civil rights movement, and the innovative work taking place at Florida State University to promote classical and civic education.
References:
- Fighting for the Freedom to Learn: Examining America's Centuries-Old School Choice Movement by James Shuls and Neil P. McCluskey
- Education Myths by Jay P. Green
- “The Role of Government in Education” by Milton Friedman
- School Choice Myths: Setting the Record Straight on Education Freedom by Neil P. McCloskey and Cory A. DeAngelis
- Freedom of Choice in Education by Virgil C. Blum, S.J.
- The Phoenix Principles: Toward a Rebirth of American Education by Jason Bedrick and James Shuls
In this episode of The Anchored Podcast, Jeremy speaks with Thomas Maloney, Superintendent of Schools for the Diocese of Lansing. Thomas shares his journey from growing up in a Catholic family to leading Catholic education in Lansing, Michigan. He discusses the decline of Catholic education in America, the challenges it faces today, and the renewal currently taking place in Catholic schools. He emphasizes the importance of faith, culture, and the Catholic intellectual tradition in shaping future generations.
- From Christendom to Apostolic Mission: Pastoral Strategies for an Apostolic Age by Monsignor James P. Shea
On this episode of The Anchored Podcast, Soren Schwab is joined by Sam Bruce, Director of Philosophy and Education at the Prosperity Institute. Together, they discuss Sam's unique educational journey, the importance of liberal arts education, and the role of philosophy in public life. Sam shares insights on the significance of the Edington Fellowship, which encourages, equips, and connects early-career professionals with a vocational commitment to serving in the public square. They also explore the meaning of prosperity and the relevance of great books in shaping public policy.
https://www.prosperity.com/
On this episode of The Anchored Podcast, Adam Roate, Senior Director of Partnerships at CLT, is joined by Kevin Seitz, Dean of Academics at Cary Christian School in Cary, NC. Kevin shares his journey from teaching adapted PE in a public school setting to serving at a classical Christian school. Together, they discuss the importance of partnering with parents in education and how teaching through a biblical worldview helps shape students' sense of purpose and prepares them for life beyond the classroom.
https://carychristianschool.org/
On this episode of The Anchored Podcast, Jeremy is joined by Dr. Lily Abadal, an applied ethicist and Assistant Professor of Instruction at the University of South Florida. They discuss her unique journey as a first-generation college student and her passion for philosophy. They also explore the challenges and opportunities that AI presents to students and educators, and how the rise of AI could lead to a resurgence of classical educational traditions.
Follow Lily on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-lily-abadal/
On this episode of The Anchored Podcast, Jeremy is joined by Dr. Matt Mehan–Associate Dean and Associate Professor of Government for the Van Andel Graduate School of Government at Hillsdale College’s Washington, D.C. campus–to explore the enduring power of fables, classical education, and the importance of shared stories in rebuilding American civic virtue.
Drawing from history, literature, and the American tradition, Dr. Mehan discusses how heroes, moral imagination, and cultural inheritance cultivate civic virtue, inspire hope, and strengthen love of country.
They also discuss his newly released book, The American Book of Fables, which invites readers to rediscover the beauty of America—her lands, her people, and her principles of liberty, law, and love. Written for readers of all ages, The American Book of Fables invites families to rediscover faith, freedom, self-government, and the stories worth passing on.
Order The American Book of Fables today: https://www.amazon.com/American-Book-Fables-Matthew-Mehan/dp/B0G1XYVC54
On this episode of The Anchored Podcast, Jeremy is joined by Jack McPherson, Director of Development for the Emerging Leaders Program at the Convention of States (COS) Foundation.
Jack shares his journey from Hillsdale College to serving as a founding member of the Emerging Leaders Program, a nine-month student formation fellowship that trains young men and women in the art of American Statesmanship.
Discover how classical education, statesmanship, and a commitment to the common good are shaping future public servants and restoring the true meaning of leadership.
Website: cosinternship.com
If anybody would like to make a gift to the Emerging Leaders Program, go to cosinternship.com and click ‘Donate Today’ in the top right. If you would like to discuss financial support with Jack in greater depth, he can be reached 24/7 at 346-212-0576, and at jmcpherson@conventionofstatesfoundation.org.
On this episode of The Anchored Podcast, Noah Tyler, Chief Strategy Officer at CLT, is joined by Lawrence Reed, President Emeritus, Humphreys Family Senior Fellow, and Ron Manners Global Ambassador for Liberty at the Foundation for Economic Education (FEE).
They discuss the parental involvement as the strongest predictor of student success, the significance of civics education in understanding constitutional principles, and the current state of economics education in the United States. They also reflect on historical parallels that can inform our understanding of current political trends.
Dr. Reed's Forthcoming Book: Born of Ideas: How Principles, Faith, and Courage Forged America
What if we’ve been teaching Latin and Greek all wrong?
In this episode of the Anchored Podcast, Soren Schwab sits down with Guillermo Dillon, Senior Consultant in the U.S. for the Polis Institute, to discuss why the future of Latin and Ancient Greek depends on something bigger than textbooks, but on our understanding of why these languages must be kept alive.
Guillermo makes the case that Greek and Latin should not be treated as “dead languages” or mere tools for boosting test scores, but as living gateways into the intellectual tradition of the West—the "Republic of Letters", as the American Founding Fathers referred to it.
From spoken Latin and immersive pedagogy to the growing demand for trained classical language teachers, this conversation explores what it would look like to teach ancient languages as languages once again.
Be sure to check out Guillermo Dillon’s forthcoming book, a practical teacher’s guide designed to help educators teach "Unus, Duo, Tres" using a communicative, immersive Latin method. This resource is built specifically to help schools and teachers bring spoken Latin into the classroom with confidence.
Learn more about Guillermo and the Polis Institute here:
https://www.polisjerusalem.org/
https://www.polisjerusalem.org/resource/unus-duo-tres-latine-loquamur-per-scaenas-et-imagines/
Timestamps
00:40 – Introduction & Guest Background
02:54 – Guillermo’s Educational Journey
05:16 – Growing Up Bilingual & Learning Languages
07:12 – Discovering Spoken Latin
10:50 – Why Learn Latin and Greek?
16:56 – Why Speaking Latin Matters
17:01 – The POLIS Institute & Its Mission
19:56 – The Classical Education Teacher Shortage
25:51 – Training Teachers, Not Just Buying Curriculum
30:25 – Advice for Schools Starting Latin Programs
34:30 – Guillermo’s New Book & Unus, Duo, Tres
38:35 – Teacher Success Stories
40:47 – A Book That Changed Guillermo’s Life: Antigone
43:38 – Final Thoughts & Closing
AnchoredPodcast #ClassicLearningTest #Latin #AncientGreek #ClassicalEducation #Humanities #GreatBooks #POLISInstitute #LiberalArts #TeacherTraining
Most people accept death as the ultimate loss—Ben Sasse embraces it with humor, hope, and a profound faith that changes how we see life, death, and education. In this deeply personal yet inspiring episode, one of America's most eloquent voices shares how a terminal diagnosis sharpened his moral clarity and deepened his understanding of what truly matters.
Ben Sasse, a former senator, university president, and thoughtful advocate for classical Christian education, opens up about confronting mortality with a rare combination of honesty, humor, and faith. He recounts the moments that have shaped his view on life’s purpose, from reading old books at Oxford to serving in the U.S. Senate. You’ll discover how his fight with cancer has transformed his approach to education—focusing on cultivating virtue, love, and friendship rather than mere career success.
Also joining Ben Sasse and Jeremy Tate in the conversation is Keith Nix, who has served as the Head of School at Veritas School in Richmond, VA, since 2010.
We break down:
The importance of reading the Great Books to gain perspective beyond our moment
How classical Christian education aims to reorder our affections and nurture true friendship
The vital role of intergenerational engagement in building resilient communities
The radical significance of the Sabbath in cultivating gratitude and humility
Ben shares moving stories about friendship, faith, and the hope that sustains him through suffering.
His candid reflections on mortality challenge us to make what time we have count—by loving our neighbor, pursuing truth, and living with eternal hope.
This episode is perfect for educators, parents, and anyone wrestling with life’s biggest questions—especially in a culture fixated on outcomes and success. If you believe education is about forming humans who love goodness and beauty, you won’t want to miss this powerful conversation.
00:00 Intro
01:08 A Vision for Education
03:11 Oxford & the Power of Small Seminars
06:37 Friendship and the Good Life
08:57 Family, Education, and Moving for Values
13:15 From Public School to Classical Christian Education
16:19 The Art of Rhetoric & Great Speakers
20:12 Influences of Great Orators
23:14 A Father’s Discipline & Coaching
24:42 Challenges in Classical Christian Education
25:57 Core Values & Future of the Tradition
28:39 The Telos Debate (How Do You Say It?)
34:37 Education Beyond Job Training
35:30 Rethinking the Factory Model of Schooling
37:45 Family & Intergenerational Life
38:21 Friendship, Community, and Education
40:00 Social Media & Peer Segregation
42:10 Hands-On & Artistic Learning
45:10 Maturation, Responsibility, and Service
46:18 Over-Consumption & the Search for Purpose
47:18 Music, Math, and the Language of Heaven
48:48 Seminar-Based Learning
49:25 Facing Death & Living Well
49:54 Suffering, Resurrection, and Hope
50:39 Faith in the Face of Illness
53:45 Shared Loves & Deep Friendship
55:29 Community Across Generations
56:10 Humor, Death, and the Christian Life
57:09 The Hope of Final Victory
58:10 Beauty, Identity, and Creation
59:41 Gratitude, Legacy, and a Life Well Lived
01:00:11 Final Reflections & Memorable Friendship
In this episode, we chat with Dr. Gary Welton, a dedicated professor and administrator at Grove City College, about his personal journey, the unique environment at Grove City, and the role of standardized assessments like the CLT in higher education. Discover how faith influences academic pathways and the importance of preserving classical liberal arts traditions in today's educational landscape.
CLT Study: https://www.gcc.edu/Home/Staff-Directory/Staff-Detail/gcc-study-finds-predictive-value-in-classic-learning-test
Key topics include:
Dr. Welton’s upbringing in Grove City and his faith-based education journey
The advantages of Grove City College’s emphasis on classical and
Christian education
Insights into the College Learning Test (CLT) and its predictive validity for college success
Trends in standardized testing following the shift toward test-optional policies
How classical literacy and familiarity with tradition benefit modern students
Favorite books that have shaped Dr. Welton’s worldview, including Les Misérables and The Possessed
Timestamps:
(0:05) - Welcome and introduction to Dr. Welton’s background
(1:20) - The impact of Grove City College on student development
(4:44) - Dr. Welton’s faith background and experience in secular universities
(8:27) - The origin and findings of the pioneering CLT outcome study
(10:53) - Trends in college admissions and test requirement policies
(13:08) - Validation of the CLT as a predictor of first-year GPA
(14:56) - Connection between classical texts and assessment literacy
(16:17) - The importance of cultural and literary literacy in education
(18:24) - Unexpected results and insights from the CLT study
(20:28) - Homeschooling and school background impacts on scores
(24:45) - Lessons for other institutions from the CLT validation study
(26:22) - The importance of focused reading for developing mature intellectual skills
(28:23) - Dr. Welton’s top books and their influence on his life and work
(32:14) - Closing remarks and future hopes for college assessment
Many believe that school growth requires sacrificing uniqueness, but Dr. Eric DeVries shows how Hill Country Christian School is expanding while maintaining its core identity. By fostering a vibrant, Christ-centered culture, the school thrives even as enrollment surpasses 700 students.
With over 17 years of experience in leading classical Christian schools, Dr. DeVries shares insights into how strategic clarity and a commitment to moral and spiritual formation drive growth in North Austin. He explores balancing rigorous academics like STEM with the timeless virtues of classical education, all while staying true to the school's faith-driven mission.
Discover:
How to maintain a church-integrated culture in a growing secular-style school
Strategies to prevent mission drift while pursuing enrollment goals
Balancing classical humanities with pioneering STEM programs
The role of clear messaging in reinforcing school identity
Real student stories showcasing the transformative power of classical education
In an era where many schools chase numbers at the risk of losing their soul, Dr. DeVries argues that sustainable growth relies on clarity, conviction, and a deep commitment to core principles. This episode is essential for school leaders, parents, and educators passionate about preserving educational integrity amid expansion.
Dr. Eric DeVries, head of Hill Country Christian School of Austin, leads a thriving community that prioritizes faith, excellence, and joy in learning. His leadership offers.
1:01 - Introduction by Soren Schwab, welcoming Dr. Eric DeVries.
3:19 - Dr. DeVries discusses his educational background and journey into school leadership.
5:39 - Discovery of classical education and transition to becoming a classical educator.
8:44 - Overview of Hill Country Christian School and its unique aspects.
11:38 - Dr. DeVries shares what drew him to Hill Country Christian School.
15:21 - Balancing classical education with tech and STEM programs.
21:44 - Strategies to prevent mission drift while growing enrollment.
24:44 - Impact of classical Christian education on families and students.
28:35 - Discussion on the benefits of CLT testing and data analysis.
35:45 - Dr. DeVries shares influential books in his life.
ClassicalEducation, #SchoolLeadership, #FaithInLearning, #MissionDriven, #EducationalGrowth, #ChristianSchools, #STEMEducation, #CulturalIdentity
Visit "The Canary Project" website: https://www.thecanaryproject.org/
Most of us are unknowingly living in an attention economy that’s shaping our minds, emotional health, and relationships — often without our consent.
Terry Gromes, founder of the Canary Project, reveals how technology is rewiring childhood development and what parents and educators can do to regain control before it’s too late.
In this eye-opening conversation, Terry shares the surprising origins of the Canary Project and how it acts as a “canary in the coal mine,” warning us about the unseen dangers of digital addiction and algorithm-driven distraction.
He discusses the groundbreaking research linking social media use to anxiety, declining social skills, and attention issues — especially for children with underdeveloped prefrontal cortexes.
Terry offers practical, science-backed strategies to reset your family’s tech habits, including the power of simple experiments, digital detoxes, and virtue-based boundaries.
You’ll discover: how early signs of digital addiction manifest in everyday habits, why a “healthy tech diet” is essential for mental health, and the role schools can play in creating intentional policies. Terry also breaks down how a 60-day challenge on his app leads to measurable drops in anxiety and rekindles face-to-face relationships.
This episode is essential listening for parents, teachers, and anyone committed to reclaiming human attention in a world dominated by screens.
If you’re serious about protecting your children’s future, restoring attention, and building resilient relationships, this conversation will inspire immediate change — because technology should serve the human person, not the other way around.
Terry Gromes is the founder of the Canary Project, an initiative dedicated to helping families and schools build healthier relationships with technology, backed by over a decade of experience at the intersection of innovation, product development, and human well-being.
Perfect for parents, educators, and anyone feeling overwhelmed by the digital age, this episode offers clear, actionable steps to foster discipline, presence, and virtue in a screen-saturated world. Don’t wait for a crisis — become the canary in your own family’s coal mine today.
0:23 - Introduction: Welcome and introduction to the Anchored Podcast.
1:42 - Guest Introduction: Meet Terry Gromes, founder of the Canary Project.
3:14 - Early Education: Terry discusses his unique educational background.
5:29 - Technology in Childhood: The role of technology in Terry's upbringing.
7:20 - The Ordered Soul: Challenges of maintaining focus in the digital age.
10:37 - The Canary Project: Origins and mission of the Canary Project.
14:01 - Digital Habits: Recognizing and addressing digital addiction.
19:32 - Parenting in the Digital Age: Strategies for parents to manage tech use.
25:08 - The Canary Challenge: A 60-day program to reset tech habits.
31:28 - Schools and Technology: Implementing tech policies in education.
37:57 - A Healthy Tech Diet: Creating a balanced approach to technology use.
42:28 - Conclusion: Final thoughts and resources.
TechBalance
DigitalWellbeing
CanaryProject
ScreenTime
ParentingTips
EducationReform
MentalHealth
DigitalDetox
TechAwareness
HealthyHabits
Unlock the secret to transforming education by blending faith, leadership, and practical strategies—discover how a spirit-filled approach shapes tomorrow’s teachers.
Dr. Kim Boyd, Dean of the College of Education at Oral Roberts University, shares her remarkable journey from a public school student in Pennsylvania to a transformative leader who’s reimagining Christian education. She reveals how her own childhood struggles, including teachers’ harsh words that once held her back, fueled her lifelong passion for empowering teachers and students alike. Learn how her faith-infused philosophy integrates biblical principles into teaching, creating environments where healing and inspiration flourish.
In this episode, you'll discover:
-Why the Spirit-led classroom can revolutionize student outcomes and teacher confidence
-How Christian educators can navigate the complex landscape of public, private, and homeschool settings while maintaining a biblical worldview
-The critical role community and safety play in fostering diversity and inclusion on faith-based campuses
-The unique ways ORU’s spirit-empowered training produces teachers who make a difference beyond secular methods
-Why less government interference could be the key to an educational renaissance rooted in biblical values
Perfect for educators, parents, faith leaders, and students considering their next step, this conversation challenges conventional wisdom and highlights the transformative power of a biblically grounded approach to education.
Dr. Kim Boyd is a seasoned professor, speaker, and leader whose work has spanned continents, emphasizing that Christian education isn’t just about academics—it’s about cultivating spirit-empowered leaders eager to serve with integrity and compassion. Her insights will inspire you to see education as a divine calling—one that can heal, uplift, and transform communities.
Tune in and discover why faith-based educators are essential to shaping a more hopeful, just, and spiritually grounded future.
Most students leave high school without ever experiencing the depth and joy of a truly classical Catholic education. But what if there’s a better way—one that transforms students into well-rounded leaders rooted in faith and virtue?
In this episode, Dr. Eric DeMeuse, headmaster of Chesterton Academy of Milwaukee, shares how a uniquely integrated, high-school-only model is redefining what education can be. He reveals how his own journey—from growing up in Wisconsin, discovering classical texts at Hillsdale, to shaping a school community based on relationship, beauty, and excellence—can inspire your approach to education and family life.
You’ll discover why the Chesterton model emphasizes four key pillars: authentic relationship-building, rigorous arts and sciences, sacramental life, and rightly ordered virtues. Dr. DeMeuse explains how cultivating trust and individual excellence creates students who love learning—and who excel not just on standardized tests, but in life.
He shares powerful stories of transformation, the importance of developing authentic community from the ground up, and how this model prepares students to thrive in the modern college landscape, often going on to attend Catholic and Christian colleges that align with their values.
This isn’t just a school story—it's a call to rethink everything about education, from curriculum design to character formation, and to see the profound impact of a faith-infused, classical approach. Perfect for parents, educators, and anyone committed to forming whole persons in love and truth.
Join us to explore how a small school in Milwaukee is making a big impact—and how this model offers hope for a culture longing for truth, beauty, and goodness.
Timestamps:
- 0:00 Introduction to the Anchored Podcast
- 1:00 Eric's Educational Journey
- 2:03 Discovering Classical Education
- 6:36 History of the Chesterton School Network
- 8:40 Distinctive Features of Chesterton Academies
- 14:38 Building School Culture
- 18:17 Transformative Student Stories
- 24:15 Navigating Standardized Testing
- 27:25 College Choices for Chesterton Graduates
- 33:53 Impactful Texts and Final Thoughts
In this episode of the Anchored Podcast, Jeremy Tate sits down with Stuart Williams to discuss the launch of the Classic Learning Foundation.
The Foundation is being established to come alongside students and assist with the funding of both secondary and collegiate education. With a focus on merit-based and need-based scholarships, the goal is to support students pursuing a classically based, liberal arts education.
Drawing a parallel to the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, Stuart explains how the Classic Learning Foundation aims to create recognition and prestige around strong pre-college preparation—particularly for students in the 10th and 11th grades—and to help carry that recognition into the college experience.
The conversation also explores broader questions about education:
- Has the purpose of college shifted toward return on investment?
- What is lost when education is reduced to job training?
- Why do reading, writing, and clear thinking still matter?
Reflecting on his own experience—from a career at IBM to studying at St. John's College—Stuart shares how a liberal arts education shaped his thinking and why he believes it remains essential today.
00:00 Introduction
01:00 Stuart Williams’ background
08:00 Returning to school at St. John’s College
15:40 What is the Classic Learning Foundation?
18:20 National Merit and education incentives
21:49 The purpose of education
24:27 Education, work, and the future
Watch more from the Anchored Podcast and explore the ideas shaping the future of education.
ClassicLearningFoundation, #ClassicalEducation, #LiberalArts, #CLT, #AnchoredPodcast, #JeremyTate, #StuartWilliams, #EducationReform, #scholarships
Welcome to another enlightening episode of The Anchored Podcast! In this episode, we dive into the transformative power of an "enchanted intellect" with Andrew Morton, a senior fellow at Worldview Academy. Discover how reading full novels and engaging with classics like Narnia and Lord of the Rings can shape a vibrant, resilient faith in students.
Join us as Andrew shares how Worldview Academy’s summer camps forge hearts and minds through interactive experiences, igniting a love for truth, goodness, and beauty. Learn how this approach challenges the modern tendency to compartmentalize faith and reason, fostering a worldview rooted in awe and wonder.
If you're a parent, educator, or student longing for education that feeds the soul as much as the mind, this episode is your catalyst. Discover the revolutionary potential of seeing God's glory in the ordinary and learn how to cultivate an enchanted worldview that lasts beyond the classroom.
If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and subscribe to The Anchored Podcast for more inspiring content. Your support helps us continue to bring you insightful discussions and transformative ideas.
Thank you for listening and stay anchored in truth!
To learn more about Worldview Academy, visit their website at:
https://worldview.org/
Timestamps:
[00:00] Introduction and guest Andrew Morton’s background
[01:10] Andrew’s educational journey from homeschooling to Grove City College
[02:44] The role of classical education unknowingly received by Andrew
[03:52] The influence of books and literature on his worldview formation
[04:36] The value of Grove City College as a cost-effective, faith-aligned institution
[05:47] The importance of the classical Christian renewal and its hidden impact
[06:25] How Andrew’s familiarity with the term 'classical education' evolved
[07:21] The impact of reading Lewis, Tolkien, and George MacDonald on imagination
[08:17] Worldview Academy’s classical experience and its formative role
[09:15] The cultural significance of The Lord of the Rings release
[09:42] The decline of reading full novels and its impact on imagination
[10:01] The connection of fiction to the formation of moral imagination
[11:19] The misconception about fantasy and the reinforcing of reality through fiction
[12:04] How Andrew and his family first engaged with Worldview Academy
[12:30] Overview of Worldview Academy’s mission and camp experience
[14:26] How camp simulates an internship in a life committed to Christ
[15:25] The integration of heart, mind, and will in formation at camp
[16:23] The importance of love for truth and personal devotion
[17:41] Evangelism training and real-world application during camp trips
[19:04] The transformative impact of shared faith experiences and evangelism
[20:22] Target demographics and demographic diversity at camps
[21:00] Locations and frequency of camps across the country
[22:30] The flexibility of student backgrounds and their growth
[23:44] The role of being 'enchanted' in teaching and educational impact
[24:19] Andrew’s reflections on GK Chesterton’s The Ethics of Elfland
[26:50] The significance of beauty, wonder, and the enchanted worldview
[30:12] The challenge of modern mechanistic explanations versus biblical wonder
[33:26] Encapsulating wonder: wonder at the magic, gratitude to the magician
[34:23] Chesterton’s imagery of enchantment and the everyday wonder of God’s creation
[36:37] The diverse profiles of students and how the camp impacts different backgrounds
[39:22] The encouraging statistic of student retention and enthusiasm for camp
[40:22] The alignment of CLT’s humanized assessment with the camp’s formative goals
[40:57] Andrew’s recommended reading: The Weight of Glory and Mere Christianity
[43:04] Closing thoughts and encouragement to explore classical education and worldview
Join Andrew Zwerneman, Head of Cana Academy, on the Anchored Podcast as he dives into the History250 Project, a groundbreaking initiative transforming the way American history is taught. Discover how this project brings history to life with 250 high-quality videos, classroom resources, and original documents—covering the story of America from its founding to the modern day.
Zwerneman discusses:
The importance of teaching American history warts-and-all, highlighting both challenges and triumphs.
How leaders like Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King Jr., Harry Truman, and Cesar Chavez drew on history and moral principles to shape our nation.
Ways teachers, students, and lifelong learners can use History250 for classical, engaging, and meaningful education.
Why the story of America belongs to everyone who lives here, and how understanding it inspires citizenship, courage, and critical thinking.
Watch the full interview to see how History250 is empowering educators and students to explore America’s past in new and engaging ways.
Like, share, and subscribe for more insights into classical education, American history, and educational innovation!
Learn more & access free History250 resources: www.history250.org
History250 #AmericanHistory #ClassicalEducation #EducationInnovation #TeachingHistory #CanaAcademy #AnchoredPodcast #HistoryEducation #FoundingFathers #CivicEducation
In this episode of the Anchored Podcast, Dr. P. Jesse Rine discusses his journey in Christian higher education, the evolution of Christian colleges, and the mission of the Center for Academic Faithfulness and Flourishing. He highlights the importance of maintaining distinct Christian identities in higher education, the positive trends in enrollment for faithful institutions, and the challenges posed by demographic shifts and technological advancements. Dr. Rine also introduces the CAFF College Guide, a resource aimed at helping students and parents navigate the landscape of Christian colleges.
In this episode, Alex Julian discusses his journey into classical education, his teaching philosophy, and the insights he gained from his time at Arcadia. The conversation delves into the Classical Baccalaureate program, its significance in addressing gaps in the current educational landscape, and the demand for such an initiative among educators and parents. Alex outlines the foundational principles of the program and shares the timeline for its implementation, emphasizing the importance of creating a high-quality educational offering that resonates with both students and colleges.
https://www.cltexam.com/classicalbaccalaureate/
Takeaways
Alex Julian's background includes Montessori education and Catholic schooling.
Many classical educators share a common experience of lacking classical education in their youth.
Teaching is fulfilling due to the enthusiasm and insight of students.
The classical education movement is growing rapidly, attracting dedicated individuals.
There are significant gaps in training for those starting classical schools.
Classical Baccalaureate aims to provide an alternative to AP and IB programs.
The program seeks to validate the rigor of classical education in college admissions.
Parents desire a curriculum that prepares their children for citizenship in a democratic republic.
The program will incorporate deep seminar work and senior thesis projects.
Implementation will be gradual, focusing on quality and selectivity in pilot schools.
titles
Reviving Classical Education with Alex Julian
The Journey to Classical Baccalaureate
Chapters
00:00
Introduction to Classical Education and Alex Julian
01:42
Personal Journey into Classical Education
05:02
Teaching Philosophy and Experiences
06:49
Insights from Arcadia and the Growth of Classical Education
08:25
The Concept of Classical Baccalaureate
14:01
Demand for Classical Baccalaureate and Its Importance
17:20
Defining Classical Baccalaureate
22:55
Foundational Principles of Classical Baccalaureate
26:38
Implementation Timeline and Future Plans
Are you seeking an education that goes beyond the "factory" model of modern schooling?
Join us for a deep dive into the transformative power of classical education with Jessica Lopez and Ali Cause-Nance from Classical Charter Schools of America. In an era where many feel students have become "commodities" of the test/college prep industry, this episode explores a proven alternative that integrates rigorous academics with the cultivation of timeless virtues.
In this episode, we discuss:
The Foundation of Latin: Why ancient languages are the key to mastering modern thought.
Character vs. Curriculum: How fostering virtue is just as critical as academic mastery.
True Assessment: Why the CLT exam provides a more meaningful reflection of achievement than traditional standardized tests.
School Choice in Action: How parents and leaders are successfully reclaiming educational excellence.
This conversation is essential for any parent, educator, or leader ready to move past "dishonest and soulless" modern standards toward a future rooted in truth and character.
What kind of education is required to sustain a free society?
On this episode of The Anchored Podcast, Jeremy Wayne Tate, founder of the Classic Learning Test (CLT), sits down with Jeffrey S. Trimbath, President of the Maryland Family Institute, to examine the deep connection between classical education, family formation, and self-government.
Jeffrey draws on his experience in public policy, education, and family advocacy to argue that a democratic republic depends on citizens who can govern themselves—and that kind of formation does not happen by accident. From the decline of grammar schools to modern education experiments, this conversation explores how cultural and educational shifts shape freedom itself.
If we cannot govern ourselves, someone else will.
Topics Covered in This Episode:
Why self-government depends on moral and intellectual formation
The role of classical education in preserving a democratic republic
How modern schooling departed from the grammar school tradition
Family, virtue, and the Western intellectual inheritance
Education policy, parental rights, the issue of euthanasia, and cultural formation
About Our Guest
Jeffrey S. Trimbath is President of the Maryland Family Institute, an organization dedicated to strengthening families through public policy, education, and cultural engagement. Learn more at:
https://marylandfamily.org
About the Host
Jeremy Wayne Tate is the founder of the Classic Learning Test (CLT) and host of The Anchored Podcast, where education, culture, and the Western tradition meet.
About The Anchored Podcast
The Anchored Podcast is the official podcast of the Classic Learning Test, featuring conversations on classical education, culture, and the ideas that shape human flourishing.
Jeremy Wayne Tate sits down with Dr. Jordi Wiersma, founding president of the Pascal Institute in the Netherlands, to discuss the renewal of classical education in Europe and beyond. They explore how modern schooling shapes culture, why liberal arts and Great Books still matter, and how rigorous seminars in philosophy, literature, and the history of ideas can form students in wisdom and judgment.
You’ll hear about the mission of the Pascal Institute, its seminars and symposia, and its place within the broader classical education movement that is reconnecting students with Homer, Plato, Aristotle, Shakespeare, Pascal, and more.
Learn more about the Pascal Institute:
https://pascalinstitute.com/
ClassicalEducation #PascalInstitute #JordiWiersma #GreatBooks #Plato #LiberalArts #EuropeanEducation #ChristianEducation
Join us on the Anchored Podcast as we explore the journey of Rockbridge Academy with its head, Roy Griffith. Discover how his background in architecture influenced his approach to education and learn about the unique values that define this flagship classical Christian school. We discuss the challenges and opportunities in modern education, including the integration of technology and the balance between academic rigor and spiritual growth. Tune in for insights on the future of classical Christian education and the role of community and mentorship in schools.
AnchorPodcast #ClassicalEducation #RoyGriffith #RockbridgeAcademy #EducationInsights #ChristianEducation #ArchitectureInEducation #TechInEducation #AcademicRigor #spiritualgrowth
In this episode of the Anchored Podcast, Jeremy Tate and guests Luke Heintschel and Genavive Edman discuss the mission and vision behind Coeur d'Eucharist Academy, a Catholic school in Northern Idaho.
They explore the challenges and opportunities within the classical education movement, emphasizing the importance of returning to the roots of Catholic education, which prioritize virtue and excellence over mere academic achievement.
Genavive shares her journey from a homeschool background to leading a school that aims to foster a strong community and a deep understanding of faith among students. Luke adds insights on the significance of whole-person formation in education, highlighting the need for a balanced approach that integrates both academic rigor and character development.
Chapters
00:00
The Mission of Catholic Education
01:00
Introducing Coeur d'Eucharist Academy
02:06
Personal Journeys to Classical Education
04:32
The Debate on Classical vs. Liberal Education
07:25
The Decline of Catholic Schools
09:31
Origins of Coeur d'Eucharist Academy
12:47
Influences and Inspirations
14:10
Distinctive Features of the Academy
19:32
Navigating Diocesan Relationships
21:46
The Revival of Catholic Education
24:28
Curriculum and Academic Focus
29:38
Books That Shape Our Mission
The conversation with Mike McKenna provides insights into the world of Classical Christian Education and the shift away from school rankings to celebrate partner schools.
Takeaways
- Classical Christian education emphasizes the development of the whole person in Christ
- The CLT is moving away from school rankings to highlight and celebrate partner schools
Chapters
- 00:29 Introduction to Mike McKenna and Classical Christian Education
- 03:17 Mike McKenna's Educational Journey
- 06:09 Mars Hill Academy Strengths and Community
- 09:36 Mission Preservation in Education
- 12:16 Adopting CLT Assessments
- 15:43 Engagement and Preparation for Success
- 18:35 Impactful Texts and Closing Thoughts
How should classical education respond to artificial intelligence—and what happens to formation when machines can teach faster than humans? In this panel from the 2025 Annapolis Summit, CLT brings together leading scholars and practitioners to wrestle with AI, virtue, and the future of learning.
Moderated by Dr. Angel Adams Parham (University of Virginia; former President of the CLT Board of Academic Advisors), this conversation features Dr. Christopher Perrin (Classical Academic Press), Dr. Brian Williams (Templeton Honors College, Eastern University), and Erin Valdez (University of Austin; education and public policy). They discuss how AI is already reshaping classrooms, what is at stake for the telos of education, and how classical schools, homeschoolers, and universities can use new tools without sacrificing human formation.
Across the panel you’ll hear:
Stories from higher ed and K–12 about plagiarism, AI‑graded essays, and “alpha schools” that rely on AI tutors instead of teachers.
A deep dive into the difference between information and formation, and why contemplation, attention, and love of the good cannot be automated.
Concrete use‑cases where AI may genuinely serve classical learning (e.g., language drilling, logistics, research assistance) and where it risks dehumanizing students.
Recorded live at the 2025 Annapolis Summit, hosted by Classic Learning Test (CLT). Perfect for parents, teachers, school leaders, and students who care about classical education, virtue ethics, and the future of humane learning in an AI age.
Taken from the 2025 Annapolis Summit, this episode brings together leading voices in classical education to clarify how CLT thinks and talks about learning. “Towards a Common Language at CLT” features Dr. Timothy Wiens, Laura Berquist, Dr. Jessica Hooten Wilson, Dr. Daniel Peterson, and Dr. Justin Smith in a lively roundtable on what terms like “classical,” “liberal arts,” “formation,” and “rigor” really mean.
They explore why shared language matters for schools, homeschool families, and colleges partnering with CLT, and how a clear vocabulary can unite diverse approaches around a common vision. Educators, parents, and students will gain a deeper understanding of CLT’s mission and how it seeks to serve the renewal of learning in the modern world.
Perfect for anyone asking: What exactly do we mean by “classical education,” and how does CLT fit into that story?
This episode brings together three of the most influential public intellectuals of our time for a rare, honest conversation about truth, disagreement, and unity in a polarized age. Father Robert Sirico moderates a powerful dialogue between Dr. Cornel West and Professor Robert P. George as they discuss their co‑authored book, Truth Matters: A Dialogue on Fruitful Disagreement in an Age of Division.
Episode description
Can people who profoundly disagree still be friends—and work together for the common good? In this special panel discussion, Father Sirico hosts Cornel West and Robert P. George to explore how to seek truth, argue with integrity, and practice real civility without watering down conviction. They share personal stories, hard‑won wisdom, and practical principles for disagreement that is honest, charitable, and fruitful.
Listeners will hear them wrestle with:
- Why truth matters more than tribalism or party loyalty
- How to argue in good faith without demonizing opponents
- The role of faith, conscience, and moral courage in public life
Whether you are a student, educator, pastor, or concerned citizen, this conversation offers a hopeful model for how to think deeply, disagree strongly, and still recognize the dignity of those on the “other side.”
In this episode of the Anchored Podcast by Classic Learning Test, Jeremy Wayne Tate sits down with 98‑year‑old Blouke Carus to share an unforgettable story of childhood under Nazi Germany, escape to the United States, and a life shaped by liberal arts education. Carus reflects on what it was like to grow up under totalitarianism, the moment his family fled, and how coming back to America formed his understanding of freedom, responsibility, and the human person.
Drawing on decades as a leader in publishing and education, Carus explains why studying the great books, history, and philosophy gave him resilience, moral clarity, and a sense of purpose that ideology could never supply. This conversation is ideal for students, parents, teachers, and school leaders seeking an alternative to purely technocratic education and looking to recover a deeply human vision of learning.
Listeners will hear about:
- Life as a child in Nazi Germany and the dangers of propaganda and dehumanization
- His escape back to the United States and the gratitude that shaped his vocation
- How a liberal arts education informed his career, leadership, and family life
- Why reading the great books is essential for forming free and virtuous citizens today
If you care about classical education, the future of American schools, or how to form the next generation against totalitarian thinking, this episode is for you.
Today Jeremy is joined by Susan Morrow, PhD, who obtained her Doctor of Philosophy in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center. Susan describes her unique childhood growing up in a funeral parlor, her educational journey as well as moral conflicts she experienced as a professional scientist, and her ultimate decision to devote herself full time to raising her family.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Shannon Johnston, Assistant Professor of Art and Director of the Pathmaker program at Newman University. They discuss how Pathmaker is reimagining higher education by offering students the opportunity to earn a bachelor’s degree in just three years through an innovative, project-based learning model that emphasizes mentorship and individualized learning experiences. They also reflect on the growing influence of AI in both art and education, while emphasizing that human creativity remains irreplaceable.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Chad Pecknold, Associate Professor of Theology at the Catholic University and author of Fire on the Altar: Setting Our Souls Ablaze through Augustine’s Confessions. They discuss St. Augustine as offering the structural blueprint for Western civilization and Christianity as the religious DNA embedded within it. They also dive into the term Christian nationalism and the strong, cultural desire to return to public Christianity.
stpaulcenter.co/fireonthealtar
Instagram: @stpaulcenter and @emmausroadpublishing
X: @ccpecknold
On this episode of the Anchored Podcast, Soren is joined by Semi Park, founding Headmaster of Orange County Classical Academy. She discusses her experiences serving underserved schools, her transition to classical education, and the founding of OCCA amidst significant challenges and opposition. They emphasize the importance of mission-driven education, the role of parents, and the need for diversity in thought over mere representation. She also addresses the current challenges facing classical education in California.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Michael Bileca, founder of True North, a network of classical charter schools in Florida. They discuss his time working for the Florida state legislature, including some of the education reform policies he enacted. They explore how his work in state politics convinced him to go beyond policy and start a school. They conclude by diving into the story of introducing the CLT to Florida and sharing statistics on its growth over the past few years.
In this episode of the Anchored Podcast, Jeremy is joined by Tim Feist, founder of Feist Stone. They discuss his experience at the Naval Academy as a midshipman and professor, his passion for history, and the moment that led him to begin stone carving. They explore the significance of stone carving as both an art form and a spiritual discipline, and the importance of stone carving in the ancient world. They also reflect on the role of education in fostering creativity and craftsmanship, and the impact of art on education.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Joseph Magaña, Vice President of Policy and Advocacy at EdChoice and Leslie Hiner, Vice President of Legal Policy at EdChoice, leading their Legal Policy and Education Center. They unpack educational savings accounts, and the importance of parental accountability in the school choice movement. They talk about the Friedman Index as a resource that allows families to assess where and how school choice is best accommodated across the United States. They also explore homeschool families’ perspectives and concerns regarding school choice.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Dr. Kent Lasnoski, President of San Damiano College for the Trades, a new Catholic trades college in Illinois. Dr. Lasnoski shares his journey from professor and dean at Wyoming Catholic College to founding a Catholic Trade School. They discuss the importance of integrating intellectual and practical skills in education, the impact of AI on the trades, and the significance of fostering a community and entrepreneurial mindset among students. Dr. Lasnoski also describes the unique educational model at San Damiano, which prepares students for a fulfilling life in both mind and the trades.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by John DeJak, Director of Education for the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. John talks about working alongside Dale Ahlquist during the founding of the first Chesterton Academy, as well as his transition to Saint Agnes, where he worked in collaboration with Michael Adkins. Together, John and Jeremy explore what Catholic schools can learn from their Protestant classical counterparts. They also discuss the hopeful future of Catholic education and the merits of a deviceless school.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Deacon Harrison Garlick, Chancellor and Legal Counsel for the Diocese of Tulsa, and Host of Ascend: The Great Books Podcast. They discuss his journey from a Protestant upbringing to embracing classical education and its significance in today's society. They explore the challenges of advocating for religious liberty in education, including recently with St. Isidore of Seville Virtual Catholic Charter School, for which he testified before the Supreme Court. Finally, Deacon Garlick details his two Great Books-focused podcasts, the role of love in teaching, and the intersection of paganism and Christian education.
Ascend: The Great Books Podcast - https://www.thegreatbookspodcast.com/
The Ascent: https://www.theascent.io/about
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Sir Nick Gibb, the former UK Minister of State for Schools. They explore the educational reforms he led in Britain, examining how these changes delivered real, measurable change. They also talk about the key role that foundational tools, such as phonics and multiplication tables, played in driving educational transformation
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Laura Berquist, founder of Mother of Divine Grace. Laura shares her journey from receiving a non-orthodox Catholic education to attending Thomas Aquinas College and establishing a Catholic classical homeschooling program. She discusses the importance of a strong Catholic education, the philosophy behind classical education, and the impact that MODG has had on families. She also addresses the challenges of navigating college decisions for homeschoolers and the growing movement of classical education as an alternative to secular schooling.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Sarah Novlan, Chief Academic Officer at Hill Country Christian School. They announce CLT Enduring Courses as a new alternative to AP curriculum, launching in the 2026–27 academic year. The two examine how the AP classes often contradict a classical curriculum in both rigor and content. They also explore why classical schools are eager for changes in the college prep–course landscape, and the telos that sets CLT apart.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Andrew Smalley, head of Veritas Classical School in St. Augustine, FL and board member of the advisory council for the Institute for Classical Education at Flagler College. They explore the power of making discipleship the primary goal of Christian education and the deep impact that it leaves on students. They discuss Veritas Classical School and the process of building up a school that aims to finish the trivium.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Dr. Todd Bates, the founding President and Professor of Humanities at Christ College, a new classical Christian college located in Satellite Beach, Florida. They discuss the vision behind establishing Christ College, which unites the classical humanities with a focus on entrepreneurship. Dr. Bates also highlights how the Christian intellectual tradition offers guidance in today’s changing educational landscape.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Jennifer Berkshire, journalist and host of the education policy podcast Have You Heard? She discusses her experience bringing liberal arts education into prisons with the Boston College Prison Education Program. They explore how reading the Great Books allows inmates to grapple with sincere questions about guilt, innocence, and responsibility, and how serving a life sentence can shape a student’s educational telos.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Mandi Gerth, Administrative Director of the Cowan Center at the University of Dallas and author of Thoroughness and Charm. They discuss her book, the meaning behind its title, and her vision for teachers as guardians and keepers. She shares her advice for teachers who are simultaneously excited and daunted by the richness of the tradition they get to teach. They explore how teachers embody the classical tradition by cultivating a love for the material and transmitting it to their students, even when the content isn’t their personal favorite.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Dr. Cornelis J. Schilt, Professor of History and Philosophy of Knowledge at the Vrije Universiteit in Brussels, and Founder and President of Lux Mundi, a new Catholic university in Belgium. Dr. Schilt shares his unique educational journey from a small town in the Netherlands to prestigious institutions like Oxford. He discusses the challenges he has faced in academia in Europe, and his vision for Lux Mundi as a transformative educational institution that emphasizes character development and the pursuit of truth.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Jeff Brown, Headmaster of Hunter Classical Christian School in Richmond, Virginia. They discuss Jeff’s journey to discovering classical education, and Hunter Classical’s commitment to cultivating character before transcripts. They examine the CLT as a valuable standard for what an ideal student should aspire to learn and an exemplary school should aspire to teach. They conclude by talking about the future of Hunter Classical, including their first class of ninth graders starting this fall.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Jovia Godfrey, Admissions Officer at Saint Constantine College and a seventh-grade writing tutorial teacher at the Saint Constantine School in Houston, Texas. They talk about Jovia’s journey to discovering Saint Constantine for her kids, and the school’s resolve to cultivate an environment that is risky but not hazardous. They dive into Saint Constantine’s K-16 educational approach and their revolutionary return to learning well.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Brandon Vogt, author, Founder of ClaritasU, Senior Publishing Director for Bishop Robert Barron’s Word on Fire, and Founder and Chairman of Chesterton Academy of Orlando. They discuss his journey in founding a Chesterton school in Orlando and what inspired him to choose its curriculum for his children. They explore Brandon’s defense of the Harry Potter series as rich in Christian virtue and having the power to re-enchant reality.
Read Brandon Vogt on Catholics and Harry Potter: https://brandonvogt.com/potter/
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Jim Gash, President of Pepperdine University. They unpack his recent viral U.S. News & World Report article titled “Can Belief in God Strengthen Academic Freedom?” They also explore the value of a traditional brick-and-mortar school in the age of unlimited information access, and conclude by discussing why students from the classical renewal movement are well-suited for a Pepperdine education.
On this episode of Anchored, CLT’s Chief Strategy Officer Noah Tyler is joined by Vince Verges, who recently retired from the Florida Department of Education after 31 years in Florida public schools. They discuss how Florida emerged as a national leader in classical education. Vince shares his journey from classroom teacher to serving as the head of Accountability and Assessment at the Florida Department of Education, including his choice to steer away from Common Core standardized testing. They explore the role of virtue in education, particularly in connection to the rise of AI.
On this episode of Anchored, Dr. Jennifer Frey shares the story behind her recently published New York Times op-ed, "This is Who's Really Driving the Decline in Interest in Liberal Arts Education." Frey reflects on her abrupt dismissal as Dean of the Honors College at the University of Tulsa—despite building a demonstrably successful program. She reflects on the tension between student's intellectual needs and college administrators' own view of "success." Dr. Frey emphasizes the need for reform in higher education and the importance of authentic liberal education for a thriving democracy.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Tucker Carlson, host of Tucker on X and The Tucker Carlson Show. They discuss the ultimate purpose of education as arriving at wisdom, rather than merely accumulating knowledge. They dive into the connection between ugly architecture and the pursuit of evil. Tucker also talks about his regrets surrounding his children’s education.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Ann Brodeur, the Chair of Education and Liberal Arts at Catholic International University. They explore the relationship between Ann’s love for medieval history and her background growing up on a ranch in Montana. They dive into how a view of education as formational, rather than mere informational, helps mitigate the threat posed by AI. They discuss Catholic International University’s founding mission to educate the laity along with today’s cultural revival of Catholic education and orthodoxy. They conclude by highlighting key texts that shaped medieval culture for an illiterate audience.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by CLT Director of Legislative Strategy Michael Torres. The two discuss the recent policy victories for CLT and the classical renewal movement in states such as Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Texas. They unpack the surprising and predictable responses from politicians and SAT and ACT lobbyists. Finally, they dive into the characteristics of states that are excited about adopting the CLT into their college admissions processes.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Marissa Streit, CEO of PragerU and host of Real Talk. They discuss Marissa’s educational experiences growing up in Israel and attending college in America, exploring how her travels deepened her appreciation for American freedoms. They dive into the founding of PragerU and PragerU's breakthrough moment. They also discuss how PragerU embraces the classical education movement and how homeschoolers and traditional school communities alike utilize its resources.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Michael Adkins, Dean of Academics and Director of the Lower School of Saint Agnes School in St. Paul, Minnesota. They discuss the secret to keeping Catholic education faithfully Catholic. They dive into misconceptions about the word “classical” and how its popular conception has changed over time. They also explore the identity crisis driving people to reconnect with the cultural heritage of classical education.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Andrew Ellison, Vice President of Enrollment at the University of Dallas, and Amber Dyer, Head of School at Great Hearts Irving. Andrew introduces the exciting new University of Dallas–CLT Auto Admit Initiative, which grants automatic admission to students who score 88 or higher on the Classic Learning Test. The three also share insights on how to choose a college that values and cultivates a classical education. Finally, they reflect on the enduring legacy of former UD professor Louise Cowan, under whom Amber studied.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Josh Dyson, the Executive Director of the C5 Urban School Initiative, launching Hope Academy Wichita this coming fall. They discuss the founding of C5, the meaning behind its name, and its mission in serving inner-city communities. They conclude by exploring literacy as a core educational value and the importance of creating a safe, joyful learning environment.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Austin Stevenson, Assistant Professor of Theology at Palm Beach Atlantic University and former Junior Research Fellow at the University of Oxford. Austin reflects on his experience at Oxford and his transformation from initially seeing academia as a barrier to finding fulfillment and enjoyment in it. They explore why Christians have withdrawn from academic institutions in the past, and the current shift as more Christians begin to reengage with higher education. They conclude by discussing his book, Consciousness of the Historical Jesus: Historiography, Theology, and Metaphysics, and Austin's venture to bridge the work of theology with biblical scholarship.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Jason Bedrick, Research Fellow at The Heritage Foundation’s Center for Education Policy. The two discuss the Phoenix Declaration, a document espousing an American vision for education. Together, they explore the outlined principles of the document, including the role of parents as primary educators, the reality of objective truth, and the vital importance of passing on cultural heritage.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Sara Osborne, the author of Reading for the Long Run: Leading Struggling Students into the Reading Life and Assistant Professor of English and Director of Classical Education at College of the Ozarks in Missouri. They examine the claims that classical education is elitist and explore how classical schools can position themselves to challenge that perception. Sara shares her journey teaching her children how to read and some of the challenges that come with meeting different students’ needs. They dive into anecdotes and insights from her book, including the importance of viewing literacy as an individual journey.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Loren Rotner, Associate Provost, and David Puelz, Assistant Professor of Statistics and Data Science at the University of Austin. They discuss what makes UATX distinct, including its heterodox faculty, emphasis on tech education, and full tuition scholarships for all admitted students. They talk about the decision to grant automatic admission to any student who scores a 105 or higher on the CLT, with encouragement and guidance for all looking to apply.
On this episode of Anchored, CLT’s Brand Marketing Manager Taryn Boyes is joined by Aryanna Highfill and Kate Creecy to discuss their experience participating in the National Homeschool Speech and Debate League, Stoa. They discuss the array of skills Stoa helped them develop, dive into how it shaped their high school experience, and share how it prepared them for their college years and beyond. They also discuss how to approach the competitive aspect of speech and debate.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by James Cowart, head of Trinitas Christian School in Pensacola, Florida. They discuss why music is a key part of education at Trinitas. They dive into the nuances of school choice and the strings that often come attached to government money. James concludes by discussing his advice for those looking to start a new classical, Christian school.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Leslie Voorhees, director of member schools at Ambleside Schools International, an organization that offers a Charlotte Mason educational approach to schools around the world. They discuss Charlotte Mason’s educational philosophy and the way it translates into principles at the Ambleside schools. They explore the benefits of an education that centers and values the potential of every child. They conclude by discussing the differences and similarities between Charlotte Mason and classical education.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy and special guest co-host, CLT Chief of Staff Katie Prefontaine, are joined by Cornel West and Robert George. Cornel serves as a professor of philosophy in Christian Practice at Union Theological Seminary and is an emeritus professor of African-American Studies at Princeton University. Robert is a professor of Jurisprudence and the director of the James Madison Program in American Ideals and Institutions at Princeton University. The two discuss their deep bond of friendship, built on the basis of pursuing truth and fostering intellectual humility, explored in their recent book Truth Matters. They discuss how to cultivate these relationships and bring people to the table for these conversations. They conclude by examining the importance of studying both the progressive and conservative traditions for the flourishing of the individual and society as a whole.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Jamie Burns and Hin-Tai Ting, co-founders of the Fellowship for Classical Learning and educators setting up classical schools across the UK. They discuss the current state of education in the UK and the troublesome separation of value-conversations from classroom-conversations. They dive into their own journeys to believing in the importance of a classical Christian education from both an intellectual and personal perspective. They conclude by talking about some of the roadblocks to classical education in the UK and why they are motivated to overcome them.
St. Anselm’s, School co-founded by Jamie Burns: https://www.stanselmscardiff.co.uk/
The Fountain Christian School, of which Hin Tai Ting is the founding headmaster: https://www.thefountainschool.london/
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Brian Dellinger, professor of computer science at Grove City College. They discuss the definition and history of artificial intelligence, and Brian illustrates how biases can influence AI programs. They delve into both the ontological confusion and differentiation that AI provokes. They explore the importance of approaching technology as a gift from God and how his upcoming book, tentatively titled God and AI, aims to make AI more accessible and less overwhelming from a Christian perspective.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Robert Garrow, founding principal of Golden View Classical Academy in Golden, Colorado. They discuss the push back Golden View has faced for teaching The Bible in a literary and historical context as a classical charter school, and the state of school choice in Colorado. They also talk about the challenges of recruiting, training, and retaining teachers who have a classical orientation and technical proficiency, as well as some of the strategies they’ve used to succeed in these areas. They conclude by discussing the challenges and opportunities presented by the growth of AI.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Christopher Loesser and Andrew King from Hundredfold Consulting. They discuss how schools could potentially claim hundreds of thousands of dollars in Employee Retention Credit (ERC) funds as compensation for the COVID-19 restrictions they had to accommodate. They outline qualifications and the consulting and filing processes schools must complete before the April 15 deadline. They also talk about how the money can be used, and the ERC success stories they’ve already seen.
Listeners can book a free meeting with Chris here: https://calendly.com/meetwithchrisloesser
Or they can email him at chris@hundredfoldconsultingllc.com to learn more.
On the episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Florida State Representative and founder of Employment Simplified Inc., John Snyder. They discuss Florida’s efforts to support school choice and classical education. They also cover ESI’s partnership with CLT, which helps assign teachers to schools through the CLT Classical Teaching Corps. They also dive into what happens once an applicant is accepted into the Corps and share good news for those who may still want to apply.
Apply for the CLT Classical Teaching Corps: https://www.cltexam.com/classical-teaching-corps/
Visit https://www.esiworks.com/contact/ to walk through the application process with one of their recruiters and explore next steps.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Jimmy Mitchell, director of campus ministry at Jesuit High School in Tampa, Florida and founder of Love Good. The two discuss the way music and architecture can soften the spirit and elicit noble desires. They dive into the culture of Jesuit Tampa and how sports, curriculum, and campus culture interact and create young men interested in faith and leadership. They also discuss the benefits of single sex education in combatting the cultural understanding of what it means to be a man.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy and Soren are joined by Erik Twist and Ben Lindquist, two of the founders of Arcadia Education. The four discuss the cultural gap in operational guidance for schools and faith-based organizations that brought about the need for Arcadia. They dive into the importance of valuing operations on par with missional drive. They also discuss the myth that there is a shortage of talented teachers in the classical education world and how Arcadia illuminates the opportunities for good schools to attract good teachers.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Allen Mendenhall, the associate dean and Grady Rosier professor for the Sorell College of Business at Troy University, where he also directs the Manuel H. Johnson Center for Political Economy. Mendenhall recently published an article in 1819 News entitled “Alabama Needs the Classic Learning Test.” The two discuss the problems with American education today, highlighting how educational vandalism and social engineering confuse the moral aims and core objectives of schooling. They dive into the College Board’s contribution to eroding educational standards. They conclude by talking about some of the hopeful changes and initiatives that they are seeing on the academic landscape.
In this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by David Rancourt, provost and VP of enrollment at the New College of Florida. They discuss David’s journey from playing football under Bobby Bowden to advocating for classical education. They dive into the history of New College of Florida and the campus’ culture of civil discourse that allows people to hold and discuss a wide range of opinions and beliefs. They also talk about the media coverage of New College of Florida and David’s experience navigating the press.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Robert Pondiscio, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and an affiliate of AEI’s James Q. Wilson Program in K-12 Education Studies. Robert challenges the notion that education aims to teach people how to think rather than what to think. They discuss the importance of literacy and equipping students with the basic background knowledge and vocabulary to be able to decode the texts they encounter, and how classical education does this well. They conclude by talking about the telos of education, in which students learn what it means to be human, not just how to get a job.
A previous Anchored episode featuring Robert Pondiscio is mentioned in this episode.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Rob Reynolds, founder, president, and executive producer of Christian media company Cross Boss Media. The two discuss his journey going from teaching in New York public schools to founding a real estate company to launching Cross Boss. They examine why Christian media matters and the importance of safeguarding your children when it comes to giving them access to phones. They also talk about the success of Studio 3:16, Cross Boss’ educational comedy program based on Gospel passages.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Tiffany Justice, co-founder of Moms for Liberty. Tiffany talks about her journey joining her local school board and how the challenges of COVID created an unexpected opportunity—what she calls “COVID lemonade”—for parents to see the indoctrination happening in public schools. They discuss the importance of local and state-level education reform. They also dive into the gender ideology issues that have circumvented parental influence and infiltrated public schools.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Jon Peede, president of Ashland University. They discuss his over a decade’s worth of work in the National Endowment for the Arts and National Endowment for the Humanities and his experience learning from differing viewpoints as a conservative working in the arts. They discuss the possibility of a modern renaissance in art and how educational institutions can aid in that flourishing. They also dive into how Ashland’s accent on the individual makes it a unique, classical educational experience.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Texas State Representative Brad Buckley, who discusses his educational journey, the importance of classical education, and recent reforms in Texas public education. Buckley emphasizes the need for rigorous instructional materials, the role of testing, and the significance of school choice and educational savings accounts. He also shares insights on the impact of literature in his life and the importance of parental involvement in education.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Hans Zeiger, president of the Jack Miller Center, a nationwide, nonpartisan educational venture that is dedicated to America’s founding principles and civic education at every level. They discuss Hans’ journey from public policy to the Jack Miller Center, and the crisis in civic education that sparked his interest. They explore the importance of knowledge for self-governing citizens and for the survival of the country. They also discuss specific areas where the educational system has failed, and some of the university programs that provide beacons of hope.
This week’s episode of Anchored features a speech delivered by Jeremy Tate, CEO of the Classic Learning Test, at the National Summit on Civics in Catholic Education at Benedictine College. Jeremy talks about the story of Catholic education in America. Jeremy highlights the challenges faced by Catholic schools today, including declining enrollment and the influence of secular educational standards, while also presenting a hopeful vision for revitalization through distinct Catholic identity and practices.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Rachel Campos-Duffy, host of FOX & Friends Weekend and the From the Kitchen Table podcast. Rachel shares her personal educational journey, the importance of authentic Catholic schooling, and her family's commitment to classical education. She discusses the challenges faced by Catholic schools, the revival of interest in Catholic education post-COVID, and the transformative experience her daughter had at the University of Dallas. She emphasizes the need for parents to be proactive in their children's education and the integration of faith and values at home.
Click here for “Battle for the American Mind: Uprooting a Century of Miseducation” by Pete Hegseth and David Goodwin.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Lynda Sloneker, President of StoaUSA, a Christian homeschool speech and debate league. They are also joined by Lynda’s daughter, Alyssa. They discuss Stoa’s history and mission and how it has personally impacted Alyssa’s journey as a college student. They talk about debating with kindness and charity and the benefits of debating that extend beyond future career options. They conclude by discussing how debate has changed in light of the current political climate and how Stoa is working to fix what has been broken.
In this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Kathleen O’Toole, the assistant provost for K-12 Education at Hillsdale College. In this conversation, Dr. Kathleen O'Toole discusses her journey in education, the impact of classical education on K-12 schooling, and the role of Hillsdale in shaping educational practices across the country. She emphasizes the importance of a solid foundational education rooted in the liberal arts and the mission of classical schools to cultivate good citizens. The discussion also touches on the political implications of education, the future of classical education, and resources for educators.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Gerard Alexander, a politics professor at University of Virginia the founder of The Blue Ridge Center. They discuss the strengths and shortcomings of UVA as an institution. They dive into the rampant self-censorship on college campuses and its effect on campus culture. Finally, they talk about The Blue Ridge Center as a program that allows college students to grapple with underrepresented topics and viewpoints.
On this special episode of Office Hours with Jeremy Tate, Jeremy and Soren announce the launch of the CLT Classical Teaching Corps. Tune in to hear about how CLT is responding to the movement’s biggest obstacle — finding well-vetted teachers — with the new CLT Classical Teaching Corps for college seniors. They also dive into the application, which opens today, and the guaranteed job security that comes with being chosen for the initiative.
Apply for the CLT Classical Teaching Corps: https://www.cltexam.com/classical-teaching-corps/
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by John Boyle, professor of Catholic Students at the University of St. Thomas. They discuss the influence of St. Thomas Aquinas and John’s newest book, Aquinas on Scripture: A Primer. John also talks about St. Thomas’ curriculum and how the incarnation holds everything together. They also discuss their Catholic Studies program, including its structure, benefits, and presence at a larger, private university.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Justin Dyer, Dean of the School of Civic Leadership and professor of government at the University of Texas at Austin. They discuss some of the benefits and resources that come with big, public universities like UT. They dive into the development and purpose of UT’s new civic honors major and School of Civic Leadership. They conclude by discussing the decline of general civic knowledge and some of the educational reasons for it.
In this episode of Anchored, Jeremy speaks with Salvatore Cordileone, the Archbishop of San Francisco. They delve into Cordileone’s path to the priesthood and his personal experiences with Pope John Paul II. They also discuss the evolution of Catholic education from its peak in the 1960s to the present day, and discuss potential signs of a renaissance in Catholic education. They conclude by examining why Catholic schools are inherently classical and how Catholicism enriches the teaching of the Western tradition.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Todd Krulak, professor and Director of the University Fellows and the Micah Fellows Honors College programs at Samford University. They are also joined by Taylore Miller, the new Director of College Partnerships at CLT and a Samford graduate. Miller discusses her experience at Samford and Krulak dives into their honors college programs: The University Fellows program distinguished by academic excellence and the Micah Fellows distinguished by service. They also discuss the inviting yet unapologetically Christian environment of Samford, and what kinds of students are a good fit for the university.
On Office Hours with Jeremy Tate, Jeremy and Soren dive into the most recent, need-to-know news surrounding the education renewal movement. Tune in to hear about how the College Board recently removed a practice question linking female empowerment to low birth rates and how that correlates to the conversation around values-neutral education. A new National Review article by Daniel Buck pinpoints the virtue of classical schooling and the areas in which it is different from public education. They conclude by discussing a new College Board statistic revealing a decline in the rigor of the SAT math section, and why that may be in the College Board’s best interest.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Nic Charbonneau, a principal classical architect at Harrison Design, a classical architecture firm. The two discuss how classical philosophy was manifest through the period's architecture and what this says about the modern worldview. Nic dives into what happened to the beautiful architecture of the past and predicts the future of architecture in light of the growing classical education renewal movement. They also discuss why classical schools should take place in buildings that reflect their purposes and values.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Dr. Will Inboden, a professor and Director of the Alexander Hamilton Center for Classical and Civic Education at the University of Florida. The two discuss the Center’s importance to the classical ed movement, its future, and the five majors it offers. They also discuss his book The Peacemaker: Ronald Reagan, the Cold War, and the World on the Brink and the connection between statesmanship and Western civilization. Inboden concludes by advocating for classical education in higher education, even for the student who has already done years of classical schooling.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren welcomes five of CLT’s summer interns: Ammon Corpron, Charlotte Crowell, Grace Ann Roth, Blake Schaper, and Gracey Washa to talk about their experiences interning for CLT this summer. Join the group as they discuss the skills they acquired and the projects they worked on the college partnerships, homeschool partnerships, policy and finance, customer service, and test development departments. The interns talk about some of the highlights and successes as well as a few stories about what goes on behind the scenes.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Preston Atwood, head of school at Westminster Academy in Memphis, Tennessee and author of Cantate Domino: A Liturgical Songbook for Classical Christian Schools. They discuss the difficulty and the necessity of figuring out how to flourish as a human being while serving as an administrator. Preston explains music as a liberal art and his belief that education without music is no education at all. They close by discussing his book, Cantate Domino as the classical education movement’s songbook, as well as the value of repetition and liturgical music for educational formation.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by John Tweeddale, Vice President of Academics and professor of theology at Reformation Bible College. The two discuss how the Old and New Testaments and the Christian tradition point to classical education as the way to raise children. They dive into one of the educational legacies of the Protestant Reformation, and how the Enlightenment changed our cultural view of religion.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by David A. Armstrong, president of St. Thomas Univeristy in Miami, Florida. The two talk about the university’s origins in communist Cuba, and Armstrong’s own story that led to his commitment to Catholic education. They discuss how, amid an era of colleges closing, St. Thomas has seen record-high enrollment levels, and the secret to turnaround for schools facing decline. They close by talking about the effect of wokeism on the collegiate landscape and the future of St. Thomas as it is committed to maintaining a diverse, Catholic campus.
On Office Hours with Jeremy Tate, Jeremy and Soren dive into the most recent, need-to-know news surrounding the education renewal movement. Tune in to hear about how the SAT and ACT are making efforts to “evolve” and “adapt” with the times, leading to watered-down assessments that are more focused on convenience rather than achievement. Jason Bedrick, a friend of CLT, published an article outlining how classical education offers hope for civic renewal in America. Plus, we get to hear the inspiring story of a family that dropped everything and uprooted themselves to get their kids a classical education.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Michael Bryant from Charleston Southern University. The two discuss why a biblical worldview and the pursuit of knowledge go so well together. They talk about the effect of educational faith integration on the preservation of the liberal arts, and explain why education is never neutral when it comes to values. They also explore the culture’s current issues with biblical illiteracy, and some of the work being done to remedy that.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Krista Autrey, director of the Center for Career and Calling at Geneva College. The two discuss the role faith played in Krista's life when she discovered the career and calling that married her passions for campus ministry and the international church. They dive into how to improve the conversation surrounding the value of a college degree. They also discuss how Krista uses the idea of deciding what is next, not what is forever, to alleviate pressure when discerning the future.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Mario Vasilescu, co-founder of Readocracy, a technology that allows people to track their knowledge in the form of data and share it with others. He explains the benefits of the technology as a way to discredit the culture of division and noise and award those who are mindful of what they put into their minds. They also discuss the origins of the company and the pitfalls of the current education system that leaves brilliant thinkers behind.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Marshall King, assistant professor of Biblical Studies at Carson-Neuman University in Tennessee. They discuss Marshall’s interest in languages and his view of exercise as a metaphor for language learning. Marshall dives into understanding the university as a microcosm of the universe and archaeology as a similarly omnibus field. They conclude by exploring the roots and definition of digital humanities, and why Christians ought to explore this area of study as a part of their heritage.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Tracy Lee Simmons, journalist and author of books such as Climbing Parnassus and his most recent release On Being Civilized. The two discuss the popularity of and inspiration behind Climbing Parnassus as well as how it would be received had it been released today. They also discuss the importance of intellectual humility in approaching the humanities and the merits of starting with facts, names, and dates as stepping stones to understanding how a mind works. Finally, the two talk about his recent video with Memoria Press in connection to the difficulties of defining classical education.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Tom McFadden, Vice President of Enrollment at Christendom College. The two discuss Tom’s journey in finding Christendom College as an international student. They talk about Christendom’s new president, Dr. George Harne, and the difficulty of adhering to a school’s mission amid a culture of compromise. The two also dive into Tom’s unique situation as a father of eleven homeschooled kids who serves on a public school board and his reason for why public schools shouldn’t be abandoned altogether.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Anya Leonard, founder and director of Classical Wisdom, a site dedicated to bringing ancient wisdom to modern minds. Anya discusses her experience as a well-traveled individual and unpacks her experience in her current home, Buenos Aires, as a culture steeped in culture. She discusses international interest in the classics but highlights differences in the American renewal movement. The two also talk about the founding and purpose of Classical Wisdom and how to cultivate a love of learning in children.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Nicole Dunteman, program director of Hope Forward at Hope College. The two discuss the difficulty of capturing virtue and character development in the form of quantitative data. They unpack the Hope Forward program, a cohort of students whose tuition is fully funded by Hope College alumni, and the importance of cyclical generosity and gratitude. They also talk about the program as a solution to the problem of accessibility in classical education and its applicability to a range of other models and aims.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Travis Dickinson, professor of philosophy at Dallas Baptist University and author of several books including most recently Wandering Toward God: Finding Faith amid Doubts and Big Questions. They discuss philosophy as not only a useful subject but an unavoidable one in respect to philosophical commitments and the consequences of ideas. They explore the best ways to cultivate curiosity and sharpen a student’s critical thinking skills. Dickinson also presents his apology for the philosophy major.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by two Ashland University faculty members—Keith Ramsdell, the vice president for enrollment and Rich Policz, the associate director of student programs at the Ashbrook Center. They discuss the new Ashbrook Center program for homeschooled students, serving their needs with free tutoring, workshops, and dual enrollment support. They also talk about the homeschooled students from a professor’s point of view as a more conversational, more patriotic kind of student. They conclude by exploring the university’s new classical learning minor and the future of the Ashbrook Center.
On Office Hours with Jeremy Tate, Jeremy and Soren dive into the most recent, need-to-know news surrounding the education renewal movement. Tune in to hear about the correlation between classical higher education institutions and their comparative lack of riots. Soren and Jeremy also discuss the richness and success of classical school STEM programs and why liberal arts students do not need to fear the future of AI.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Michael Wildschut, Director of The January Series put on annually by Calvin University. The two discuss the value of a gap year and a geography major, despite the culture’s tendency to disparage both. They also dive into The January Series itself along with the breadth of subjects and questions the lectures and lecturers examine. They explore the possibility of cultivating curiosity and its role in preserving a unified culture of learning.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Davies Owens, host of the BaseCamp Live podcast. They discuss classical education’s relevant work for modern students and their families. They dive into the new kinds of kids entering schools and how techno-influences have undermined attention spans. Davies also talks about the story behind the name, mission, and work of BaseCamp Live.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Bill and Alexis Haughey, the founders of the Catholic Institute for Technology, an American, Catholic technical university opening in Italy this fall. The three discuss the university’s inception, courses, purpose, and future goals. They also unpack the importance of training up religious students to participate in the work the Vatican is already doing in confronting a technology-driven future.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Timothy Dernlan, Vice President of Advancements and Consulting for the Association of Classical Christian Schools. The two talk about Timothy’s transition from coaching college sports to the world of classical, Christian education. They also discuss his journey from his first discovery of ACCS to his role now as Vice President. They conclude by exploring Timothy’s vision for a supportive classical school ecosystem and the encouraging trends in the classical school movement.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by John Burtka, the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Intercollegiate Studies Institute. They discuss Burtka’s new book: Gateway to Statesmanship, and they explore the persisting relevance of the first principles of the classical tradition. They also talk about the dangers of the vast educational disconnect between the Founders and our current leaders, and how ISI is working to fix that.
On Office Hours with Jeremy Tate, Jeremy and Soren dive into the most recent, need-to-know news surrounding the education renewal movement. Tune in to hear about the recent article published by The New Yorker on classical education and an exciting announcement from Christendom College. Jeremy and Soren conclude by talking about their strategies for learning other languages and the importance of being familiar with a diverse linguistic tradition.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Krystyn Schmerbeck, the Director of Graduate Studies in Classical Education at Benedictine College. The two talk about how Krystyn’s experience in the religious community has informed her educational philosophy. They dive into her advice for Catholic schools trying to remain faithfully Catholic, and the power of a classical education master’s program to transform American culture. With the application deadline coming up soon, they also talk about Benedictine’s ideal candidate for their master’s program.
This year, Benedictine is hosting the Institute for Catholic Liberal Education (ICLE), National Conference. Click here to learn more or register for their waitlist.
On this episode of Anchored, Noah Tyler is joined by Clara Piano, Assistant Professor of Economics at Austin Peay State University. The two explore an understanding of economics that focuses on human relationships, not money. They parse out the good, the true, and the beautiful of economic practice, and how it could be integrated into a classical education. Piano also illustrates a brief history of economic thought and speculates on how widespread economic literacy could change our society for the better.
Click here for Clara Piano’s article, “The Place of Economics in a Classical Education.”
Click here for Friedrich Hayek’s article, “The Use of Knowledge in Society.”
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Joe Patterson, Vice President of Enrollment and Director of Athletics at Ave Maria University. The two discuss the proper relationship between higher education and sports, as well as the importance of keeping a school’s mission in focus even where athletic programming is concerned.
On Office Hours with Jeremy Tate, Jeremy and Soren dive into the most recent, need-to-know news surrounding the education renewal movement. Tune in to hear about the alarming illiteracy rate in Illinois schools and a “woke kindergarten program” in San Francisco. A Catholic liberal arts college in New York is eliminating several majors and minors, including philosophy and religious studies. However, the surprising news that Dartmouth and Yale are reintroducing mandatory standardized testing for college admissions brings a glimmer of hope for the Ivy Leagues.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Faith Moore, freelance writer, editor, and mom. The two talk about her new book, Christmas Karol, a modern retelling of Dickens' classic that follows a workaholic mom who rediscovers the joy of being with her kids. They also discuss her new podcast, Storytime for Grownups, which she hopes will help adults fall in love with classic works.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Steven Jonathan Rummelsburg, mentor teacher at John Adams Academy and founder of City of Truth. After 33 years in the classical school movement, Steven shares advice for young teachers and discusses the four levers that control education in America. They also address the challenge of finding qualified teachers in a secular humanism era.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Winston Brady, Director of Curriculum and Thales Press at Thales Academy, and author of The Inferno: A Novel. They discuss the growth of Thales Academy, its unique logic curriculum, and Winston’s new book inspired by Dante, Tolkien, Bunyan, and his own mental health journey.
Get 20% off your copy of The Inferno: A Novel with code CLASSIC20 here: http://bit.ly/3TwW7VA
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy and Kimberly are joined by James Fishback, founder of Incubate Debate. The three discuss how debate programs in American public schools have devolved in recent years by stifling free and honest speech. They explore the merits of debate as a way to assess the long-term consequences of immediate ideas. They also lament the lost art of disagreeing civilly but point to Incubate Debate and other Christian debate leagues as necessary, encouraging solutions.
On this episode of Anchored, Kimberly is joined by Sarah Scudder and Angel Parham, co-founders of the Nyansa Classical Community. The three explore the need for classical education in communities where it does not typically exist. They also talk about success stories in which children found joy and support in their after-school and homeschool programs. Finally, they look at the ministry side of their outreach that equips parents, college students, and churches to serve their community through education.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Michael Williams, president of Harding University. The two dive into Harding’s commitment to excellence and commitment to faith, and how those two are intrinsically linked. They also talk about the importance of thinking prudently about the college decision-making process. They wrap up by talking about Harding University graduates and the college’s mission of cultivating their God-given horsepower to run toward the brokenness of humanity.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Kyle Washut, president of Wyoming Catholic College. The two discuss how the college helps students plug into the classical tradition by creating an "unplugged," present culture. They talk about the 21-Day Wilderness immersion exploration that every freshman goes on in order to fully engage with the created world. Kyle also explains the founding, goals, and structure of the school.
On Office Hours with Jeremy Tate, a new segment of the Anchored podcast, Jeremy and Soren dive into the most recent, need-to-know news surrounding the education renewal movement.
Tune in to hear how: public schools are struggling to keep their students in school; Benedictine College is offering two new classical education master's degrees; and a New York Times article advocates for standardized testing as an equalizer in the face of GPA inflation, but somehow fails to mention CLT.
On this special episode of Anchored, Soren welcomes three of the 2023 CLT10 National Award winners: Jack Ferrell, William Adkison, and Maylivia Barrett. The National Award winners are among the very top-performing sophomores on the CLT10. Tune in to hear the students discuss their test-taking experiences, share their future plans, and examine the unique challenges of the CLT10. They also explore the value of removing the pressure of test prep materials for a standardized test.
The new Honors College at the University of Tulsa has announced it will be offering a full tuition scholarship for all CLT10 National Award winners! To learn more, visit utulsa.edu/honors
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Karen Moore and her student assistant, Naomi Noble from Grace Academy of Georgetown. Karen is the Classical Languages Chair at Grace Academy and the author of several books. The guests talk about how they first encountered the classics and how the study has allowed them to slow down and appreciate a wider world of language and history. They also discuss their current project: the inaugural Tournament of Laurels, taking place June 25-29 at Houston Christian University. Classical language students nationwide are invited to attend and participate in academic, oral, and fine arts competitions and events.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Robert Woods, author, headmaster of Veritas Christian Academy, and a founder of the Great Books Honors program at Faulkner University. The two discuss the paideia approach to classical education that focuses on academic coaching and Socratic seminars over just lectures. Robert talks about the formation and design of the Great Books Honors program at Faulkner University. They also talk about his book, currently in the process of being published, “Neither Angel Nor Beast,” as a way to think classically and theologically about the social sciences.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by James LaGrand, the director of the Messiah University Honors Program. The two discuss James’ love for the explanatory power of history. James describes the lost sense of wonder and discovery that accompanies the educational shift from teaching history to teaching social studies. They also talk about the honors program at Messiah University and how the Great Books have helped create community among the honors students.
Today’s episode of Anchored is brought to you with support from America’s Christian Credit Union. Find out how ACCU can be the banking partner to your school or family by visiting americaschristiancu.com/CLT.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Stephen Blackwood, president of Ralston College in Savannah, Georgia. For his return to the podcast, Stephen provides a one-year update on Ralston College’s first round of graduates. The two dive into the kinds of students that they have been accepted and encouragement for those looking to apply. They also discuss Ralston’s overall goal of intervening in higher education to create a college that is worthy of the tradition it seeks to transmit.
Today’s episode of Anchored is brought to you with support from America’s Christian Credit Union. Find out how ACCU can be the banking partner to your school or family by visiting americaschristiancu.com/CLT.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Daniel Baillargeon, founder and CEO of Mission Driven Catholic, a Catholic school resource that provides leaders with the resources, spiritual support, and tools necessary to make mission-driven decisions. The two talk about Daniel’s journey into Catholic education through his time as a teacher, superintendent, and consultant. They also highlight examples of Catholic schools that have fully lived out their mission and the replicable pedagogy that helped them do it.
Today’s episode of Anchored is brought to you with support from America’s Christian Credit Union. Find out how ACCU can be the banking partner to your school or family by visiting americaschristiancu.com/CLT.
On Office Hours with Jeremy Tate, a new segment of the Anchored podcast, Jeremy and Soren dive into the most recent, need-to-know news surrounding the education renewal movement. Tune in to hear about how The National Council of Teachers of English hosted a conference with sessions titled Lil Wayne in the Classroom and Books to Inspire Activism. On a brighter note, The Washington Post released an article highlighting homeschooling as the fastest-growing form of education in America. And finally, a public school in Florida is considering implementing a classical education curriculum in the next school year.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Paul O’Reilly, president of Thomas Aquinas College (TAC). The two discuss Paul’s background growing up in Ireland during a time of high tensions between Protestants and Catholics. They explore how the campus has changed since Paul attended in the 1980s, including a recent expansion into New England. And finally, they talk about the merits of seminar-style classes to produce thoughtful, adaptive graduates.
Today’s episode of Anchored is brought to you with support from America’s Christian Credit Union. Find out how ACCU can be the banking partner to your school or family by visiting americaschristiancu.com/CLT.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Chris Weir, the executive director of the Camino Schools in California. Chris explains his journey to getting involved with the Camino Schools and the redundancy of using the label “classical” when referring to Catholic liberal arts schools. The two also explore the reasons to be hopeful about the future of Catholic education and the importance of making it more accessible.
Today’s episode of Anchored is brought to you with support from America’s Christian Credit Union. Find out how ACCU can be the banking partner to your school or family by visiting americaschristiancu.com/CLT.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Jake Weidmann, one of nine master penmen in the world. Join them to hear about Jake’s journey to becoming a master penman and the history of beautiful penmanship. Jake also unpacks his case for cursive as a critical connection between the brain and the page and shares his best advice for instilling a love of art in students today.
Today’s episode of Anchored is brought to you with support from America’s Christian Credit Union. Find out how ACCU can be the banking partner to your school or family by visiting americaschristiancu.com/CLT.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Carrie Eben, owner of Classical Eben, a classical consulting firm. Tune in to hear Soren and Carrie talk about the difficulties of starting a classical school and maintaining teacher motivation. They dive into how to train students for long-term success by beginning with the end in mind. Soren and Carrie conclude by discussing what a proper philosophy of assessment looks like.
Today’s episode of Anchored is brought to you with support from America’s Christian Credit Union. Find out how ACCU can be the banking partner to your school or family by visiting americaschristiancu.com/CLT.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by artist Rachelle Kearns. Soren and Rachelle explore how her perception of God as a creator informs her art and how her curiosity with mercy formed her artistic voice. They explore the benefits of teaching art in K-12 education as a way to help children understand the love and character of God. Finally, Rachelle gives advice for aspiring artists.
Today’s episode of Anchored is brought to you with support from America’s Christian Credit Union. Find out how ACCU can be the banking partner to your school or family by visiting americaschristiancu.com/CLT.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Heather Lloyd, CEO of Concordis Education Partners. Soren and Heather explore how classical people founding classical schools can prevent missional drift. They stress the importance of keeping these schools small to increase mastery and discipleship. Finally, they discuss the unique and joyful environment that results from a classical school that prioritizes discovery and engagement over rigor and workload.
Today’s episode of Anchored is brought to you with support from America’s Christian Credit Union. Find out how ACCU can be the banking partner to your school or family by visiting americaschristiancu.com/CLT.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Darrell Jones, president of the Stanley M. Herzog Foundation. The two discuss how public school culture has changed over the past few years by becoming more resistant to faith. They also explore the work of the Herzog Foundation in enlightening parents, strengthening school culture, and training future Christian school leaders. They conclude by unpacking the foundation’s SchoolBox Initiative, and the purpose, goals, and recent successes that accompany it.
Today’s episode of Anchored is brought to you with support from America’s Christian Credit Union. Find out how ACCU can be the banking partner to your school or family by visiting americaschristiancu.com/CLT.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Kimberly Begg, author, Director of Programs and General Counsel of the Ortner Family Foundation, and Project Advisor for Run with Saints. The two discuss the inspiration for her new book, Unbreakable: Saints Who Inspired Saints to Moral Courage, and the stories of the three saints that the book focuses on. To close, Kimberly and Jeremy consider how the ordinary person can live a life of heroic, saintly virtue.
Listen to Kimberly’s previous Anchored episode.
Today’s episode of Anchored is brought to you with support from America’s Christian Credit Union. Find out how ACCU can be the banking partner to your school or family by visiting americaschristiancu.com/CLT.
This week’s episode of Anchored brings to you a panel discussion from the 2023 Higher Ed Summit, featuring three liberal arts college presidents: Jonathan Sanford, president of the University of Dallas; Nora Demleitner, president of St. John’s College; and Hamza Yusuf, president of Zaytuna College. Jennifer Frey, dean of the Honors College at the University of Tulsa, moderates the discussion as the presidents compare the liberal arts curriculum at their secular, Catholic, and Muslim colleges.
Applications are open for the University of Tulsa. Apply now at https://www.utulsa-info.org/web/.
Today’s episode of Anchored is brought to you with support from America’s Christian Credit Union. Find out how ACCU can be the banking partner to your school or family by visiting americaschristiancu.com/CLT.
On this episode of Anchored, Kimberly is joined by Abby Wahl, director of the online community, Sistership, and one of the members of the Scholé Sisters’ blog. They unpack the term “big hospitality” and dive into the difficulties of teaching her four dyslexic children how to read. She emphasizes the importance of cultivating good habits over forcing the love of reading. As the episode concludes, Abby explains the benefits and beauty of her drama-free, online community for homeschooling moms to ask and answer meaningful questions.
Today’s episode of Anchored is brought to you with support from America’s Christian Credit Union. Find out how ACCU can be the banking partner to your school or family by visiting americaschristiancu.com/CLT.
This week’s episode of Anchored features a speech delivered by Aaron Howard, an ethics professor at Lipscomb University and the founder and CEO of As One Diversity, at the Higher Ed Summit in Annapolis. Howard talks about the difference between the postmodern conception of diversity and the biblical view of diversity mandated by God. He dives into his firsthand experience with the oppressor/oppressed ideology he encountered at the Vanderbilt University Divinity School that pushed skepticism of objective truth and demonized all values associated with the West. Howard encourages his audience not to overreact to this misrepresentation of diversity, as we may miss the call to embrace another kind of God-ordained diversity illustrated in the life and mission of Jesus Christ.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Joe Higgins, former CEO and founder of Leman Academy of Excellence. Higgins shares how he used his entrepreneurial experience to help start six classical charter schools. Jeremy and Joe dive into the disconnect between pro-school choice state legislators and the anti-school choice bureaucracy, and the two also discuss Higgins’ Ethos Logos Partners Classical Curriculum and how it provides a way to connect history and dinner table conversations.
Today’s episode of Anchored is brought to you with support from America’s Christian Credit Union. Find out how ACCU can be the banking partner to your school or family by visiting americaschristiancu.com/CLT.
On Office Hours with Jeremy Tate, a new segment of the Anchored podcast, Jeremy and Soren dive into the most recent, need-to-know news surrounding the education renewal movement. Tune in to hear about: a school in Canada that was caught removing every library book published before 2008 in the name of inclusivity and equity; an article published by the Heritage Foundation suggesting that classical education could be a remedy to the loneliness epidemic in America; and the Florida Board of Governor's vote to approve the CLT as an accepted admissions test at all state public universities.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Greg Miller, the president of Malone University. Join the two as they discuss the benefits of intertwining faith and learning, integrating athletics into academics, and aiding students in falling in love with Scripture. Miller also talks about his unique experiences finishing his dissertation in Germany during the fall of the Berlin Wall and taking on the daunting task of refining Malone’s core curriculum.
Today’s episode of Anchored is brought to you with support from America’s Christian Credit Union. Find out how ACCU can be the banking partner to your school or family by visiting americaschristiancu.com/CLT.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Dean Forman, founder of John Adams Academy and author of John Adams Academy Leading a Revolution in Education. Forman shares how meeting his wife and reading a high school newspaper inspired him to establish a classical charter school in California. He explores the significance of creating new institutions instead of repairing existing ones and shares how he has maintained a countercultural school environment by proactively educating families about John Adams Academy's mission and carefully selecting faculty.
Today’s episode of Anchored is brought to you with support from America’s Christian Credit Union. Find out how ACCU can be the banking partner to your school or family by visiting americaschristiancu.com/CLT.
On this episode of Anchored, Kimberly is joined by Mystie Winckler, writer of the Simply Convivial blog and podcast, cohost of the Scholé Sisters’ blog, and author of “The Convivial Homeschool.” Mystie takes Kimberly through her journey to deciding on a homeschool education with a classical emphasis. The two discuss the pressures on homeschool moms to assert expertise in all areas before taking on the role of a teacher and the importance of these moms being encouraged to learn alongside their children. In the midst of this learning, the two also consider the value of struggle in demonstrating repentance, maturity, and sanctification to their children and the profound festivity that can be present in a convivial homeschool.
Today’s episode of Anchored is brought to you with support from America’s Christian Credit Union. Find out how ACCU can be the banking partner to your school or family by visiting americaschristiancu.com/CLT.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren welcomes four of the CLT summer interns: Laurali Breeden, Braeden Farley, Faith Walessa, and Faustina Wodzinski to talk about their experiences jumping from the seats of the test-takers to the office of the test-makers. Join the group as they discuss their roles and responsibilities as interns in the operations, marketing, and sales departments. The interns explain their educational backgrounds, goals, and passions alongside how they used those unique qualities to contribute to the mission and work of CLT throughout the summer.
Today’s episode of Anchored is brought to you with support from America’s Christian Credit Union. Find out how ACCU can be the banking partner to your school or family by visiting americaschristiancu.com/CLT.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Jess Hall, founder of Sherwood Entertainment - a platform that offers wholesome media. Currently, Sherwood is collaborating with CLT to provide a limited-time offer of $100 off on lifetime membership by using the code "CLT100." The discussion kicks off by examining the immorality prevalent in most of the mainstream media's current stories and its association with Hollywood's echo chamber of liberal ideology. Hall presents his solution in creating Sherwood Entertainment - a secure platform for children and a potential outlet for creatives who share Judeo-Christian beliefs. Both Jeremy and Jess emphasize the significance of low-stimulation entertainment and Sherwood's commitment to it by providing visual read-alouds of classic children's stories.
Today’s episode of Anchored is brought to you with support from America’s Christian Credit Union. Find out how ACCU can be the banking partner to your school or family by visiting americaschristiancu.com/CLT.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by John Singleton, a board member of the Liberal Arts College at Mount St. Mary’s University. Their discussion explores the founder of Mount St. Mary's, John Dubois, and his influence on American education. The conversation then delves into the present state and future promise of Catholic, classical education in America. They emphasize the ability of Catholic mythology to inspire students in their pursuit of a heroic adventure, something that secular education cannot do. Furthermore, the conversation highlights the growing enrollment trend in Catholic higher education and the rich history and merits of Mount St. Mary’s, which make it a compelling choice for prospective Catholic families.
Today’s episode of Anchored is brought to you with support from America’s Christian Credit Union. Find out how ACCU can be the banking partner to your school or family by visiting americaschristiancu.com/CLT.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Erika J. Ahern, associate editor for CatholicVote’s The LOOP. The two discuss Ahern’s switch from years pursuing higher education in philosophy to a career in media and journalism. They discuss the trajectory of journalism toward big politics and what really lies behind this seemingly recent trend. Ahern also advocates for the importance of smaller, independent news outlets and predicts the future of legacy media. They conclude the episode with tips on how to approach the college admissions process.
Today’s episode of Anchored is brought to you with support from America’s Christian Credit Union. Find out how ACCU can be the banking partner to your school or family by visiting americaschristiancu.com/CLT
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Aaron Howard, an ethics professor at Lipscomb University and the founder and CEO of As One Diversity. Together, they delve into Howard's personal journey of preserving his orthodox Christian beliefs while attending secular institutions and fighting against progressive ideology. The duo dissects the recent Supreme Court's ruling on Affirmative Action, providing insights on both the concurring and dissenting opinions. Additionally, they discuss the redefinition of racism, the cultural obligations of various ethnic groups in striving for success, and the significance of open dialogues on race and diversity, free from the fear of being labeled "racist" or "woke."
Today’s episode of Anchored is brought to you with support from America’s Christian Credit Union. Find out how ACCU can be the banking partner to your school or family by visiting americaschristiancu.com/CLT.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by John Lepine, founding principal of Crossover Preparatory Academy in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The two discuss Lepine’s journey working with Teach for America as a public high school teacher in Tulsa before beginning his work with Crossover. They talk about the value of single-sex education, Crossover’s commitment to making Christ-centered education accessible to people of all financial positions, and the different ways classical education has influenced the school, despite not following a strictly classical model. They also dive into the controversy behind school choice and the difficulty of navigating the COVID-19 and George Floyd debates of 2020 as a school primarily made up of minority students.
Today's episode of Anchored is brought to you with support from America's Christian Credit Union. Find out how ACCU can be the banking partner to your school or family by visiting americaschristiancu.com/CLT.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Phillip Donnelly, professor at the Baylor University Honors College and author of The Lost Seeds of Learning: Grammar, Logic, and Rhetoric as Life-Giving Arts. The two discuss the relationship between words and reality, and the implications of a culture that rapidly disregards grammar as an important art. They also defend the teaching of Latin in schools as a necessary way to reflect on one’s own language and dive deep into disciplines with Latin roots. Donnelly also explains why he views language as a seed, not a tool, and the unique work of the Baylor University Honors College.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is again joined by Clark Durant and welcomes Anika Prather, author of The Black Intellectual Tradition: Reading Freedom in Classical Literature and founder of The Living Water School and Center. The three discuss the influence of canon philosophers and thought on Civil Rights Movement leaders like Martin Luther King, Jr. Durant and Prather also talk about their unlikely partnership and shared passion for the great conversation of common humanity, serviced best by classical education. Durant explains the thought process and steps behind transitioning Cornerstone schools to a classical education model and gives a message to aspiring classical school teachers and leaders. Prather talks about her new role as Director of High-Quality Curriculum Instruction at the Johns Hopkins Institute for Education Policy and its role in improving schools' curricula through research.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Clark Durant, cofounder and former CEO of the Cornerstone Schools in Detroit. The two discuss how Durant’s work as a lawyer led to his founding of the Cornerstone Schools, and the transition of those schools to a classical educational model. Durant expands on the school’s mission to build a broad and beloved community of friends to deliver an excellent charter school education that is rooted in the gospel. Durant also explains the meaning behind the names of the schools and discusses the inspirational power of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s urging to “save Western civilization in her darkest hour.”
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Father Jordan Zajac, Dominican priest and assistant professor at Providence College (PC). The two discuss the role of Dominican priests in establishing PC in 1917 and maintaining its enduring Catholic identity. They defend the universal nature of Shakespeare’s works to show what is real and the nuanced discussion surrounding his religious affiliation. They also discuss the importance of college students observing the joy and sustaining power of a life fully surrendered to Christ.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Daniel Buck, teacher, senior visiting fellow at the Fordham Institute, and author of What Is Wrong With Our Schools?The two discuss the importance of maintaining certain traditional practices despite changing technology. They explore the impact of John Dewey and other educational theorists’ varied views of human nature on the philosophy of the current public school system, advocating for a student’s education to focus on content rather than acquiring skills. The two also talk about the necessary balance between student-directed techniques and models as well as boundaries that are crucial for student growth and accountability.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Chuck Fuller, associate professor of Christian Studies and director of the Honors Program at Anderson University. The two discuss the AU Honors Program, modeled after the Ph.D. seminar-style classroom environment and in pursuit of answering Tertullian’s famous question: “what has Athens to do with Jerusalem?” They also theorize the possible reasons for why Christian universities are thriving amid population and COVID-related problems – particularly the increasing difficulty of navigating secularism. In addition to enrollment benefits, the two expand on the merits of a curriculum that acknowledges hard questions about faith, death, and transcendence at the heart of learning rather than pushing those central human questions to the periphery.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Margarita Mooney Clayton, speaker, author, and associate professor at Princeton Theological Seminary. Clayton talks about her educational journey as a bilingual, achievement-oriented, Ivy League graduate. The two also discuss her books, The Love of Learning and The Wounds of Beauty. They explore the unifying nature of Great Books to reach people of all racial and socioeconomic experiences and address the inherent questions of all human beings. She also explains the dangers of unmasking the powers of oppression without presenting the good, the true, and the beautiful as powerful, unifying forces in themselves.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Andrew Ellison, director of the Saint Ambrose Center and Senior Advisor for Enrollment and Classical Education at University of Dallas (UD). The two discuss Ellison’s own classical education and early involvement with the movement. Ellison explains the beginnings of UD and its commitment to upholding a liberal arts core curriculum as well as an ecumenical environment. The two make predictions about the future of college education, and Ellison expounds upon his future in education as a newly hired UD faculty member.
A previous Anchored episode featuring Andrew Zwerneman is mentioned in this episode.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Paul Spears and Fred Sanders, both of whom are authors, speakers, and faculty members of Torrey Honors College at Biola University. The three discuss the unique features of the Torrey Honors College and the integrated academic engagement that equips students to move beyond an unhealthy focus on scholastic performance and sink their teeth into meaningful learning. They explore the dangers of the catchphrase “critical thinking” and rethink the label of “gen ed” classes. Spears and Sanders also share wisdom about the power of leaving classes “on a comma”: unresolved, unsettled, and inviting further inquiry.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Jef and Starrla Fowler, cofounders of Veritas Academy in Austin, Texas. The three discuss how the Fowlers’ failures led to their pioneering of a collaborative educational model while learning the importance of business savvy in the process. The Fowlers explain how Veritas holds a unique position as a resource school, equipping parents to steward their roles as teachers of their children and other classical academies to follow their example. The couple also provides wisdom to those who feel called to start a classical school.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Reverend Jennifer Ryden, senior chaplain at Hope College. The two discuss the changing educational and cultural landscape and its effect on the relationship between identity and belonging. Ryden also talks about the intersection of her English major and her work in ministry and Hope’s unique way of grounding vocational work in the liberal arts. She also walks Soren through a day in the life of a college chaplain and some of the best and most challenging parts of her job.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Reverend Robert Ingram, a founding member of the Geneva School, and Dr. Steven J. Nichols, President of Reformation Bible College (RBC). The three discuss the beginnings and mission of the Geneva School and of RBC and how the Christian, classical education movement has changed over time. They also explain the dangers of failing to follow up a classical K-12 education with a classical college education. Ingram and Nichols expound upon the need for leadership in classical education, and the importance of character formation and critical thinking in a world with artificial intelligence. Nichols shares how Ingram has played a large role in supporting the growth of the new Reformed Classical Education minor at RBC.
On this episode of Anchored, Kimberly is joined by Sarah Mackenzie, the author of Teaching from Rest and The Read Aloud Family and the host of the Read Aloud Revival podcast. The two discuss the definition of curriculum, the importance of a restful demeanor in establishing a love of learning, and tips for homeschooling families that find themselves trying to do it all. Mackenzie also emphasizes the importance of diligent over rigorous education and the merits of families that read aloud, a movement she is further bolstering with her boutique publishing company, Waxwing Books.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Erin Valdez, Policy Director at the Texas Public Policy Foundation and member of the CLT Board of Academic Advisors. The two discuss Valdez’s experience growing up as a homeschooled student in the eighties and how educational policy affected her experience. She also cites Albert Cheng’s research, as explored in last week’s episode, and the reality of declining literacy despite a proliferation of new reading strategies. Valdez also warns about the dangers of young men disengaging from education and the workforce, looking at the ways a balanced education reinforces the virtue of work. She leaves listeners with tips on picking the right college and a reformed philosophy on “useless” majors.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Albert Cheng, professor at the Department of Education Reform in the College of Education and Health Professions at the University of Arkansas. The two discuss Cheng’s recently published research study that captures and evaluates the growth in charter school enrollment and how it is even greater in classical charter schools. They also explore additional results from surveying parents on educational values and education. Cheng also predicts future policy implementation that could arise from these findings.
On this episode of Anchored, our Vice President of Partnerships Soren Schwab is joined by Dr. David Alexander, Vice President of Academic Affairs and a professor of philosophy at Providence Christian College in Pasadena, California. The two discuss Dr. Alexander's educational and spiritual journey and how it revealed to him the necessity and value of the liberal arts. They also explore what makes the liberal arts truly “liberating” and the subsequent danger of a hyper-focused, fragmented education geared toward merely acquiring skills.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Dr. Matthew Bianco, the Chief Operations Officer for the CiRCE Institute and a head mentor in the CiRCE Apprenticeship Program. He is also the author of Letters to My Sons: A Humane Vision for Human Relationships. He discusses how he discovered classical education after attending public school and serving in the U.S. Air Force. He also shares information on the CiRCE Apprenticeship Program and details his perspective on the importance of sports to navigating life and “things that matter because they don’t matter.”
On this episode of Anchored, Noah is joined by Joseph Pearce, the author of several books including literary biographies on figures such as Tolkien and Chesterton, and anthologies of great poetry including Poems Every Catholic Should Knowand Poems Every Child Should Know. He discusses his educational background and shares tips for becoming a good writer. He also discusses favorite works of literature from throughout history.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Hannah Frankman, founder of the rebelEducator blog which shares ideas on how to improve your child’s education. She shares about her background in homeschooling and her perspective on effective school choice policy. She also discusses changes in American society that have made homeschooling more accessible and demand reforms to public education. You can find Hannah on Twitter @rebelEducator or on her personal page @HannahFrankman.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Dr. Veronica Gutierrez, director of the Great Books Program en Español at the Angelicum Academy and a Faculty Fellow in History at Hildegard College in Costa Mesa, CA. She discusses her educational journey and how studying the Great Books helped her to embrace her Mexican American heritage.
On this special episode of Anchored, we are joined by Joshua Gibbs, who reads a version of his pamphlet “A Short Introduction to Classical Christian Education.” Joshua Gibbs is a teacher, lecturer, expert on pedagogy, and author of several books including the upcoming Love What Lasts: How to Save Your Soul from Mediocrity. He is also an Alcuin Fellow and member of the Templeton Honors College advisory board, as well a frequent speaker for the Circe Institute and the Society for Classical Learning. He also teaches online courses for ClassicalU and on his website GibbsClassical.com.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Kimberly Farley, CLT’s Director of Homeschool Partnerships, as well as her daughter Maddie, a junior studying Communications at Union University in Jackson, TN. They discuss their experiences as a homeschooling family and share lessons that they learned along the way. They also share tips for choosing a college for homeschool families. You can hear more from Kimberly on previous episodes on Anchored, including her previous staff interview and our recent episode on college admissions with Matthew Bullington.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Katharine Savage, founder and head of school at Philadelphia Classical School in Philadelphia, PA. They are also joined by Katharine’s daughter Lily who is an incoming freshman at Grove City College. They discuss the founding and growth of Philadelphia Classical School, navigating the college selection process, and formative books and stories for readers of all ages.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy and CLT’s Director of Homeschool Partnerships Kimberly Farley are joined by Matthew Bullington, a college admissions consultant and the president & CEO of UniversityReady. He discusses how college admissions’ attitudes towards homeschool students have shifted over the years, going from unfamiliar and disinterested to seeking out students who were educated at home. He also shares strategies for homeschool students to maximize their college admissions experience and provides advice for students of all educational backgrounds as they prepare for college.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Dr. Tom St. Antoine, director of the honors program at Palm Beach Atlantic University in West Palm Beach, FL. He discusses how Palm Beach Atlantic University is one of the many CLT partner colleges that are thriving in the midst of national enrollment declines. He also shares about his own educational background and provides information for students interested in Palm Beach Atlantic University and the honors program.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Monsignor James Patrick Shea, president of the University of Mary in Bismarck, ND. He is also the author of From Christendom to Apostolic Mission: Pastoral Strategies for an Apostolic Age. He discusses the unique challenges of evangelization in the modern age and provides resources for the apostolic mission. He also shares information for students interested in attending the University of Mary.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Jonathan Brush, president and CEO of Unbound, a college alternative focusing on project-based education, Christian leadership development, and hands-on experience in the real world. He discusses the history and mission of Unbound and the strong and lasting connections that Unbound students develop. He also describes the unique approach to education that Unbound takes and shares information for interested students.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Eric Wearne, Associate Professor in the Education Economics Center at Kennesaw State University and Director of the Hybrid Schools Project. He is also the author ofDefining Hybrid Homeschools in America: Little Platoons. He describes the explosive growth of hybrid schools in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and explains the unique position that hybrid schools hold between homeschooling and traditional private schools.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Dr. Timothy O’Donnell, president of Christendom College in Front Royal, VA. He discusses his upbringing in the Catholic faith, recounts stories from his time studying and living in Rome, and shares insight into the life of a college president. He also shares details for students interested in attending Christendom College.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Randan Steinhauser, founding partner of Steinhauser Strategies and an advocate for school choice who also worked on education reform policy for former U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos. They discuss the rapid growth of the school choice movement and explain why more and more families are choosing classical education. They also urge voters to support school choice regardless of political affiliation.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Trevor Wright and Arooba Asim. Trevor is the founder of Two Story Books in Statesboro, GA. Arooba is a social media influencer and former co-host and producer of the Anchored podcast. They discuss the need for interpersonal socialization, the lack of public gathering spaces in our built environments, and ways that Gen Z is pushing back against negative aspects of modern society.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Dr. Ben Merkle, president of New Saint Andrews College in Moscow, ID. He discusses his educational background, his journey to higher education administration, and New Saint Andrews College’s commitment to teaching the liberal arts from a reformed theological perspective.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Brad Layland, CEO of the FOCUS Group and author of Turning Donors into Partners: Principles of Fundraising You’ll Actually Enjoy. He is also the founder of Veritas Classical School in St. Augustine, FL. He shares advice for classical school founders to cultivate meaningful relationships, raise capital funds, and prepare their school for success.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by the founder of Christian Halls International, Dr. Nicholas Ellis. Dr. Ellis shares about his unique life experiences, including growing up in the Brazilian Amazon and studying at Oxford University. He also discusses Christian Halls International’s mission to return the responsibility of educational and personal formation of students to local communities across the globe.
On this episode of Anchored, Noah is joined by Jamie Buckland, a homeschooling mother of 16 years and the founder of West Virginia Families United for Education, a grassroots organization that supports school choice for all families. She is also the founder of Appalachian Classical Academy, a hybrid school based in Flat Top, WV. They discuss Jamie’s work to defend educational rights, the rapid expansion of school choice in WV, and how parents can make informed decisions about their children’s education.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Kathy Rabideau and Sara Peterson. Kathy is the Founder of Catholic Schoolhouse, a classical homeschool curriculum and co-op network for Catholic homeschooling families. Sara is the Upper Level Coordinator for Catholic Schoolhouse and Director of the Harford County, MD chapter. They discuss the founding and growth of Catholic Schoolhouse and provide tips for parents interested in home education.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy and CLT’s Director of Homeschool Partnerships Kimberly Farley are joined by Dr. Paul Maurer, President of Montreat College in Montreat, NC. They discuss President Maurer’s academic interests, the mission of Montreat College, and his work to strengthen the institution’s Christ-centered identity. They also discuss Montreat’s COMPASS Summer Program for high school students interested in various fields of study at Montreat.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Pete Peterson, Dean of the School of Public Policy at Pepperdine University in Mailbu, CA. He shares the story behind his calling to work in public policy, which led him to pursue a Master’s in Public Policy at Pepperdine. He also discusses the unique Christian, liberal arts identity of Pepperdine’s School of Public Policy, as well as the power of the Great Books to mediate between different perspectives.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Calvin University Provost Dr. Noah Toly, as well as CLT’s own Katie Prefontaine, who is an alumna of Calvin. They discuss the mission and history of Calvin University, campus traditions and culture, and the university’s commitment to the liberal arts.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Spencer Klavan, host of the Young Heretics podcast and author of the new book How to Save the West: Ancient Wisdom for 5 Modern Crises. He discusses the roots of the Western intellectual tradition stemming from Athens and Jerusalem and the need to preserve this tradition for future generations.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Josh Herring, Dean of Classical Education at Thales Academy in Apex, NC. He discusses the mission of Thales Academy to provide affordable classical education to students of all backgrounds. He also discusses his perspective on the shortcomings of mainstream education and shares habits for forming a robust intellectual life.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Brett Harris and Kara Swanson, published authors and co-founders of The Author Conservatory, a college alternative that develops professional and creative writing skills. Brett and Kara discuss their unique educational backgrounds and careers as published authors, and share tips for young writers to nurture their talents while pursuing meaningful employment. You can find out more in Brett’s article, Yes, You Can Make A Living As A Writer: Here’s How.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Dr. Marvin Berkowitz, the Sanford N. McDonnell Professor of Character Education at the University of Missouri-St. Louis. He is the author of PRIMED for Character Education: Six Design Principles for School Improvement. He discusses the need for character education during formative years, the relationship between developmental psychology and moral growth, and the long-term moral progress achieved by society.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Dr. Jonathan Randle, Dean of Humanities and Social Sciences at Mississippi College in Clinton, MS. He shares about his experiences as a student abroad at the University of Cambridge, where he earned his PhD at Emmanuel College. He also discusses how his liberal arts education at Mississippi College background prepared him for success in his graduate studies and beyond.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Dr. Francis Su, Professor of Mathematics at Harvey Mudd College in Claremont, CA. He is also the author of the Euler Award-winning book, Mathematics for Human Flourishing, which explores the relationship between mathematics and the virtues essential to human flourishing. He discusses the beauty and wonder inherent in mathematics and the importance of developing an appreciation of it.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Michael Hammond, President of Gordon College in Wenham, MA. They discuss Gordon College’s approach to preparing Christian students for the modern world, and share details about Gordon’s new Graduate Program in Classical School Leadership. They also discuss President Hammond’s academic interests and journey to academia.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Katie Wiens, Executive Director of CESA - the Council on Educational Standards & Accountability. They discuss her journey from working in an organic chemistry lab to founding a Christian school in urban Boston. They also discuss her work with CESA and how they serve the needs of Christian schools across the country.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Dr. Anthony Turner, Vice President of Enrollment at Charleston Southern University in Charleston, SC. Anthony tells of his journey to working in higher education after initially seeking a career in elementary education, including his unique experience of growing up with deaf parents. He also discusses reasons for declines in college enrollment and the lasting value of higher education.
On this episode of Anchored, CLT’s CFO Noah Tyler is joined by Dr. Dave Arnott, professor of Management and Economics at Dallas Baptist University. Dr. Arnott is the author of several books covering the intersection of Christianity and economics and is host of The Christian Economist podcast. The two discuss the liberating power of the free market, the relationship between economic principles and scripture, and the importance of choice in the marketplace of education. They also discuss how a Christian worldview empowers individuals to make morally-sound decisions in a market economy.
On this special episode of Anchored, Jeremy visits the University of Navarra with prominent leaders in the Catholic educational renewal movement. Sean Maltbie, Headmaster of Sacred Heart Academy in Grand Rapids, MI; Oscar Ortiz, Principal of Nolan Catholic High School in Fort Worth, TX; Brinton Smith, Superintendent of Schools for the Diocese of Fort Worth; Elias Moo, Superintendent of Schools for the Archdiocese of Denver; and Chris Weir, President of Servite High School in Anaheim, CA, engage in a lively discussion covering the faithful Catholic identity of the University of Navarra, the importance of fostering Christian culture through education, and steps that school leaders can take to nurture the faith life of students.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Andrew Pudewa, Founder and Director of the Institute for Excellence in Writing. He recounts his unique educational and life journey that ultimately led him to found IEW and convert to the Christian faith. The two discuss many of the problems facing mainstream education and explain how homeschooling provides a fruitful alternative to public schooling.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Paul List and Ali Ghaffari, co-authors of the new book Mount Doom: The Prophecy of Tolkien Revealed. The three examine the mythology of Tolkien’s works, examining many of the psychological, spiritual, and philosophical themes and allegories present throughout. This supports their argument that Tolkien foresaw an over-reliance on technology and artificial intelligence that afflicts society in the current age. They also discuss Tolkien’s Catholic faith and the influence it had on his life and writings.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Keith Nix, head of the Veritas School in Richmond, VA, and Eric Cook, President of the Society for Classical Learning. The two are co-directors of Gordon College’s new graduate program in Classical School Leadership. They discuss some of the challenges faced by the classical renewal movement, providing insight as to how Gordon’s new graduate program prepares classical educators for effective leadership at their schools. They also share tips for choosing a college that will enrich a student’s faith life.
On this episode of Anchored, CLT’s Adam Roate is joined by Dr. Jason Jewell and Dr. Andrew Jacobs of Faulkner University’s Center for Great Books and Human Flourishing. The two share about their educational journey and how Faulkner University fostered their love for classical education. They discuss the importance of faith in the academy, the value of overcoming challenges in education, and share details about graduate and undergraduate degree programs at Faulkner University. They also hear from admissions counselor Megan Lee, who shares information for interested prospective students.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Ginny Gentles, Director of the Education Freedom Center of the Independent Women’s Forum. They discuss Ginny’s background, which includes serving as a senior political advisor for the George W. Bush Administration, as well as championing school choice at the Florida Department of Education. They also discuss the harmful effects that radical ideology can have on individuals and society.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Dr. David Diener, Professor of Education at Hillsdale College. David shares how his educational journey led him to teach at a Christian school in Bogota, Colombia, before moving back to the US to pursue a passion in classical education. He emphasizes the need for good leadership in the classical renewal movement, and highlights the new Master of Arts in Classical Education program at Hillsdale College. He also discusses how classical education transcends geographic and ideological boundaries in pursuit of human flourishing for all.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Tom Monaghan, founder of Domino’s Pizza and Ave Maria University, as well as Adam Kinnick, Associate Vice President of Enrollment Management at Ave Maria University. Tom recounts growing up in foster homes and Catholic orphanages across Michigan, working multiple jobs to pay for classes and textbooks as a young adult, and eventually founding Domino’s Pizza with his brother while a student at the University of Michigan. He highlights the important role his Catholic faith plays in his daily life, and how it ultimately motivated him to found Ave Maria University. He and Adam discuss Ave Maria’s faithfully Catholic identity and share tips for students interested in attending.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Cassidy Syftestad, a Hillsdale College graduate and current third-year PhD student at the University of Arkansas studying Education Policy. Cassidy discusses how her family benefited from school choice while navigating the public school system and responds to common criticisms of school choice, emphasizing the need for freedom in education. She also shares memories from her time in the American Studies program at Hillsdale, including interviewing Annette Kirk and studying in Washington, D.C.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Dr. Jordan Almanzar, Professor at Magdalen College of the Liberal Arts in Warner, NH and teacher at Kolbe Academy. He discusses his new memoir, When the World Was Flat: One Boy’s Life at the Edge of the Millennium, which recounts his upbringing as a homeschool student in rural Colorado. He highlights many of the changes he has witnessed in society since the turn of the millennium and promotes homeschooling as an effective way to nurture family relationships in a disconnected world. He also shares about his experiences while earning his PhD at Georg-August-Universität in Göttingen, Germany, including living with his family in a medieval castle.
On this special episode of Anchored, guests Anika Prather and Doug Wilson continue their conversation on race relations in the United States. They engage in a lively discussion on topics including the value of classical education, the power of the gospel in creating racial healing, and the importance of listening to and understanding other perspectives. Join us for this special two-hour episode hosted by Dr. Christopher Perrin of Classical Academic Press.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by two leaders of St. Benedict Classical Academy in South Natick, MA: Headmaster Jay Boren and Co-Founder Erika Bachiochi. Erika shares about her academic path to becoming a legal scholar and subsequently helping found St. Benedict. Jay shares about his experience as a novice Benedictine monk before becoming a classical Catholic educator for twelve years. Under his leadership, St. Benedict’s enrollment has blossomed from 25 to 233 students. Erika and Jay share advice for new classical schools, examine the relationship between classical and authentically Catholic education, and discuss the need for good school leaders.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Becky Priest, College Counselor at The Cambridge School in San Diego, CA. She discusses how her childhood interest in education led her to Washington University in St. Louis, where she discovered a passion for helping others. She eventually joined the University’s financial aid department, before leveraging her skills to help start The Cambridge School. She shares advice for new college counselors, recommends strategies for developing a robust faith life in college, and discusses the value of classical education in preparing students for undergraduate studies.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Dr. Justin Smith, Head of the Upper School at Little Rock Christian Academy in Little Rock, AR. Justin shares about his educational and professional background, including his studies at the University of San Diego, Sam Houston State University, and the University of Oxford. He recounts how an encounter with the Harkness Method of Pedagogy at the Phillips Exeter Academy in New Hampshire changed the course of his career. He also discusses the significance of education as a formative experience for students, emphasizing the importance of good school leadership in cultivating virtue and genuine learning.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Tsh Oxenreider, who is an author of books, a long-time podcast host, and creator of The Common Place newsletter. Tsh recounts her time spent abroad in Turkey, emphasizing the value of cross-cultural experiences. She explains why living abroad led her to homeschool her children and take a year-long educational journey with her entire family after moving back to the U.S. She shares about the educational group trips that she leads for students and adults of all ages, connecting history and literature to lived experience. She also discusses her journey with the Christian faith and her eventual conversion to Catholicism.
On this special episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by two leaders in the classical renewal movement. Dr. Anika Prather is the founder of The Living Water School and Professor of Classics and English at Howard University. Douglas Wilson is a Senior Fellow at New St. Andrews College, founder of the Logos School, and Senior Minister at Christ Church in Moscow, ID. Together, they discuss Dr. Prather’s book The Black Intellectual Tradition, the legacy of Anna Julia Cooper, the importance of classical education, and the lived experiences of black and white Americans throughout history.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Andrew Brummett, Founder of The Wayside School and of Wayside Educational, an educational services company serving a network of micro high schools. Andrew shares about his journey through public and private education, which included graduate studies in military history and theology that ultimately led him to become a classical educator. He discusses the importance of making classical education accessible, explaining how micro schools provide an affordable alternative to traditional private schools. He also shares about his interest in the works of Nathaniel Hawthorne and H.W. Longfellow, discussing their influence on his educational philosophy.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Dr. Joshua Hochschild, Director of the Philosophy, Politics, and Economics program at Mount Saint Mary’s University in Emmitsburg, MD. Dr. Hochschild shares about his educational journey, including his introduction to the Great Books as part of an undergraduate honors program at Yale. He details the interdisciplinary Philosophy, Politics, and Economics major offered at the Mount, emphasizing the extent that these fields influence and rely on one another. He also discusses his walk with the Christian faith and his eventual conversion to Catholicism.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Dr. John Boyle, Chair of the Catholic Studies Department at the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, MN, as well as current student Lucia Rosales. Lucia shares about her experience as a Catholic Studies student at St. Thomas, including her opportunity to study in Rome. Dr. Boyle describes the interdisciplinary nature of the Catholic Studies program, helping students understand the impact of the Incarnation on human thought and culture. He and Lucia further discuss student life at St. Thomas, the importance of intentional community, and formative books from their educational journeys.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by David Nokes, CEO of Classreach: a new school management software platform designed to better meet the needs of private and independent schools. He shares about the decision to enroll his children at a private classical school and how this experience made him recognize the need for better school management software. He explains how his career developing crisis response software for fire departments prepared him to join Classreach, and details many of the features that make Classreach a better option for parents, teachers, and students.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Dr. Daniel Coupland, Dean of Hillsdale College’s new Graduate School of Classical Education. Dr. Coupland shares about his own unique journey through education, during which he spent time at public schools, private schools, and homeschool programs. He discusses his upcoming book, Tried and True: a Primer on Sound Pedagogy, and how he hopes it will serve as a valuable resource for new classical educators, akin to Strunk and White’s resource for new writers, The Elements of Style. He also discusses the important role that children’s literature plays in forming concepts of good and evil, preparing children to navigate a morally confusing world.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Dr. Derek Halvorson, President of Covenant College in Lookout Mountain, GA. President Halvorson shares about his educational journey, including his motivations for attending Covenant College as an undergraduate despite receiving lucrative scholarship offers to study elsewhere. He discusses the Reformed Christian identity that is central to Covenant College, detailing the ways this identity influences the College’s view of the liberal arts and its core curriculum. He also discusses the Summer Institute at Covenant College, a one-week, residential program for motivated high school students.
On this episode of Anchored, Katie is joined by Dr. John Cuddeback, Professor of Philosophy at Christendom College in Front Royal, VA. Dr. Cuddeback is also the founder of Life-Craft.org, a website where he shares practical philosophy and other wisdom for building good habits and crafting well-formed lives. Dr. Cuddeback shares his perspective on what he calls the “Epidemic of Loneliness”: the widespread absence of higher-order friendships in contemporary everyday life. He further emphasizes the important role that classical liberal education plays in forming and preserving a well-ordered society, highlighting many of the ways that Christendom College prepares their students for the world.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Dr. Brian Polk, Associate Professor of Science at College of the Ozarks in Point Lookout, MO. Dr. Polk discusses how his encounter with the liberal arts at the University of Southern Mississippi Honors College changed the course of his education, going from a pre-medical program as an undergraduate to specializing in chemistry and classical pedagogy as a doctoral student. He shares about his experiences as a classical educator, including his contributions to FASTly - a resource for teachers to provide quality science education within the context of Christian faithfulness. He also shares his perspective on the important role that science and natural philosophy play among the humanities in classical education.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Stephen Minnis, President of Benedictine College in Atchison, KS. President Minnis shares his perspective on the state of Catholic higher education, emphasizing the importance of faithful Catholic education that cultivates both faith and intellect. He discusses many of the changes that Benedictine College has seen under his leadership, including the establishment of the College’s Center for Beauty and Culture and the expansion of the College’s core curriculum. He further details the unique and devoted relationship that exists between the College and the Benedictine Order, highlighting the important role that the Order plays in developing student faith life and furthering the mission of the College.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Seth Dillon, CEO of The Babylon Bee. Seth describes his journey to starting The Babylon Bee after almost being suspended from college for a satirical email he sent to his entire school. Seth discusses why satire is so effective in communicating the truth, and highlights the difference between a comedian and a propagandist. Seth also shares what he believes to be an increasing danger in modern society: people's inability to distinguish between satire and reality.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Dr. Jerome Foss, Associate Professor of Political Science at Saint Vincent College and Director of the Saint Vincent Center for Catholic Thought and Culture. Dr. Foss discusses the pitfalls many high school students encounter when preparing for college. He shares Saint Vincent College's radically different approach to education which roots itself in the heritage of Benedictine monasticism. Dr. Foss states that the goal of this approach is to create an environment where students can trust one another and engage together in challenging, meaningful conversation.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Dr. Calvin Troup, president of Geneva College. Dr. Troup shares about his undergrad experience at Geneva from 1979-1983, discussing the importance of Geneva's integrated humanities program and Christian core curriculum. Dr. Troup emphasizes that this kind of education is essential to developing practical wisdom and enabling students to interact with those around them as human beings made in the image of God. Dr. Troup also discusses his scholarly interest in St. Augustine, sharing how Augustine's City of God provides a wonderful explanation of the hope of the Gospel in a dying world.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by John Sablan, co-founder and president of World Ablaze. John shares his story of transformation after undergoing abuse at the hands of a family member and his alcoholic father. Returning to the Catholic church in his adulthood, John experienced a "prodigal son" moment that broke the bonds of trauma and abuse in his life. John describes how his children ended up at Franciscan University after being accepted to UC Davis and Berkeley and how World Ablaze helps bring families from hurting, to healing, to holiness.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Phil Cook, Executive Director of the North American Coalition for Christian Admissions Professionals (NACCAP). Phil discusses his time serving as Vice President of Enrollment at Lee University, where he and the college administration sought to foster Christ-centered and academically excellent education. Phil shares the importance of nurturing faith in higher education and why parents should make the investment in private Christian colleges for their children. He discusses NACCAP's work to advance enrollment in Christian higher education through Christian University & College Fairs.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Andrew Zwerneman, founder and president of Cana Academy. Cana Academy is a nonprofit providing classical education resources and seminars for teachers. Andrew discusses the importance of how we teach history, highlighting the dangers of a fragmentary view which redefines the past by specific egregious failures. Andrew points out the corroded connections in modern academia between philosophy and revelation, faith and reason, and tradition and our present experience. He shares how Christianity and Western culture have fostered an extremely diverse American culture, and emphasizes the importance of focusing our history on enduring loves.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Michael Millerman, a scholar of political philosophy and author of two books: Inside "Putin's Brain" and Beginning with Heidegger.Michael shares how he became interested in the "deep inner life of man" from a young age. Introduced to Straussian pedagogy through a professor, Michael paired his interest in mysticism with philosophy and delved into research on the Russian philosopher Alexander Dugin. This research later led him to get blacklisted from a career in higher academia, but led Michael to create The Millerman School, where Michael teaches online courses on Plato, Nietzsche, Heidegger, and more. Michael shares the importance of a genuine study of controversial thoughts and shares why a universal yearning for the Great Books is inevitable.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Greg Wilbur, president and founder of New College Franklin, and Carolyn Weber, professor at New College Franklin and author of Surprised by Oxford. Greg shares how he began a career in higher education after realizing the brokenness of the status quo, with colleges that focused more on job training than educating the whole person. Greg and Carolyn discuss why New College Franklin only offers one major in the Liberal Arts and why this kind of education bears fruit in students regardless of their vocation. The two discuss the importance of music in education, as well as maintaining a sense of wonder.
On this episode of Anchored,Jeremy is joined by Doug Wilson, founder of the Logos School. Doug shares how he first learned about classical education during his service in the Navy after reading Dorothy Sayers' The Lost Tools of Learning. Doug describes the vision and mission for the Logos School as "not just another prep school" but one embedded in contextualized history of America and the church. Doug discusses the impact of secular curricula in modern schools, the importance of open conversations with people of differing beliefs, and some of the controversies that have surrounded him.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Karen Elliott, Executive Director of the Rafiki Foundation. Karen shares how she went from working as a commercial banker to serving in Africa and describes how the foundation is supporting Africans spiritually and materially. Now in 10 African countries, the Rafiki Foundation partners with 23 African church denominations and 20,000 schools to provide care and a classical Christian education to children in need. Karen emphasizes that a classical education is for everyone, but must speak to a people's particular culture and history and draw on whatever is true, good and beautiful around the world.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Jennifer Pepito, a homeschool parent, founder of The Peaceful Press, and author of Mothering By the Book. Jennifer shares how she began her homeschooling journey while seeking to provide the best education possible for her children, including one daughter with special needs. Concerned that today's kids are over-schooled and over-scheduled, Jennifer emphasizes the importance of developing fine motor skills in early education as well as cultivating joy and wonder. She shares how she has established meaningful practices in her family, like morning time, physical work, and reading aloud, to foster a love for learning and for God.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by his daughter, Grace Tate, and Tamara Long, Vice President for Enrollment Management at Abilene Christian University. Tamara and Grace discuss Abilene's summer program in England, sharing their perspectives on the trip and what they learned about English history and culture. Tamara emphasizes that Abilene Christian University's goal is to maintain a strong Christian identity that pervades and fuels its rigorous academics.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Kellye Britton, Executive Director of the Harvard Debate Council Diversity Project, a pipeline program that works to enroll black youth into an international summer debate residency at Harvard College. Kellye describes how she went from being a retail accountant to Executive Director of the record-breaking program. She also discusses the goal of the project: to breed thinkers for strong leadership from generation to generation.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Timothy Trainor, President of Mount St. Mary's University. Timothy shares that while he never saw himself becoming the college president of the second oldest Catholic university in America, his 33 years of service in the Army equipped him for his current role. Timothy discusses the history of Mount St. Mary's, its renowned National Shrine Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes, and how the university maintains its Catholic identity.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Daniel Foucachon, founder of Roman Roads Press and Kepler Education, and a member of the Board of Academic Advisors at CLT. Daniel discusses his childhood in France, where he and his siblings were the only homeschoolers in a city of two million. He shares that he started Roman Roads Press and Kepler Education to give parents the agency and tools to provide a classical Christian education to their children. He also discusses the meaning of classical education in relation to Western culture, the importance of the six Chinese arts, and why understanding The Aeneid is key to understanding the American story.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by John Snyder, a member of the Florida House of Representatives and a Marine Corps veteran. Mr. Snyder discusses his educational experience growing up, his thoughts on the national teacher shortage, and his goals for Florida’s education system. As a member of the Florida State Legislature, he provides insight on his recent bill which opens up opportunities for veterans to become teachers. He also discusses his staffing company, ESI, which helps schools recruit skilled and passionate educators.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by David Williams, President of Valor Education, the Valor Institute, and John Paul II Academy of San Diego. David discusses his love for teaching, his time teaching at Union High School, a public school in NJ, and how teaching at public school informed the rest of his career. He also shares how he learned about classical education, eventually becoming the headmaster atGlendale Preparatory Academy and then Executive Director at Great Hearts. David explains his vision behind founding the Valor Institute and Valor education, stating his desire to cultivate good school culture as the driving force.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Jacob Imam, founder of the College of St. Joseph the Worker. Jacob shares his concerns about the lack of students learning practical skills in schools. He explains the importance of manual labor in early Christianity and the modern world, stating that human labor cannot be replaced by something artificial. He shares the vision of the College of St. Joseph and the programs it offers, stating that his goal is to teach students the most stable and lucrative trades to graduate net-positive.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Jason Bedrick, a Research Fellow in the Center for Education Policy at the Heritage Foundation and an adjunct scholar at the Cato Institute's Center for Educational Freedom. Jason talks about how he became interested in public policy and his experience studying public policy at the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. He explains what school choice is and why 2021 was declared a breakthrough year for school choice. He discusses the skepticism surrounding school choice and how school choice benefits low-income and minority students.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by John S. Pistole, President of Anderson University. After the attacks of September 11, 2001, Pistole was placed in charge of the FBI’s counterterrorism program, eventually becoming the FBI’s Executive Assistant Director for National Security. In 2004, Pistole was named Deputy Director of the FBI. He discusses his experience serving as Deputy Director at a crucial time in American history and recalls the tragedy that occurred on 9/11. He explains how his role as Deputy Director prepared him to be President at Anderson.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Caroline Andrews, a rising sophomore at The Master’s University. Caroline discusses attending public school for 13 years until discovering classical education through a CLT practice test. She explains the difference between the SAT and the CLT, and how the CLT taught her that education is formative. Caroline states that the mission of public education is to teach students to excel in worldly things, while classical education teaches you how to be a responsible person.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Dr. Michael P. Krom and Dr. Jason Jividen of St. Vincent College. They discuss the presence of Benedictines on campus, and how that impacts student life and campus culture. They also talk about the future of brick and mortar colleges, and why virtual schools will not replace physical buildings. Dr. Krom and Dr. Jividen state that a physical campus is important in helping students build relationships and communities.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Alexandra Hudson, curator of Civic Renaissance. She discusses her early education, which consisted of homeschool, public school, and charter school. She also shares her experience working in the US Department of Education and the disillusionment it caused. She states that although she was excited to make a change in education through her role, the Department of Education seemed to have other priorities. It was much more bureaucratic, and had little regard for the human aspect of education. Alexandra also talks about her newsletter Civic Renaissance, politics, and her books.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Jonathan J. Sanford, President of the University of Dallas. President Sanford discusses characteristics that make UD special, such as its vibrant student life culture and its core curriculum. He explains that at UD students are taught to think and write well by engaging in conversation with others. President Sanford thinks that modern society has lost the art of arguing without quarreling, and that the classical tradition is one of conflict. He states that students must know others' opinions and thoughts well in order to argue against them.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy and Rachel are joined by Mr. Kris Bex, President of The Remnant Trust. The Remnant Trust is an public educational foundation that shares an actively growing collection of manuscripts, first edition and early works dealing with the topics of individual liberty and human dignity with some pieces dating as early as 2500 B.C.
Mr. Bex discusses the importance of touching original documents, the growing hostility towards the Classics, and how the Classics bridge the divide between different political beliefs. He also shares his thoughts on the long-term implications of students not reading old texts.
On this episode of Anchored, Tracy is joined by Dan Scoggin, Co-Founder of Great Hearts Academies. Dr. Scoggin discusses founding Great Hearts, its mission, and its foundation of teaching students ordered joy. He also discusses the six loves of Great Heart Academies, the core values that drive the entire organization. Dr. Scoggin states that a classical education at Great Hearts seeks to unifiy intellectual excellence and moral excellence, and that one cannot exist without the other.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Adam Mangana, Executive Director of Optima Domi and co-founder of Optima Classical Academy (OCA), the world’s first-ever virtual reality charter school. Mangana discusses his reasoning behind launching a school that is virtual, stating that many students do not have access to classical education through attending a physical school and that virtual reality will make education more accessible. He also states that he recognizes the dangers of VR technology, and that classical education will serve as a moral guide as more people start to use it.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Pat Wesolowski, a homeschool specialist at Bryan College. Mrs. Wesolowski discusses her experience of homeschooling her children at a time when homeschooling was illegal, and the positive impact it had on them. She also shares advice for new homeschooling parents, and things she wishes she had done differently. Mrs. Wesolowski also explains the benefits of the CLT for homeschooling families and issues with the SAT and ACT.
On this episode of Anchored, Tracy is joined by Inga Cotton, Founder and Executive Director of San Antonio Charter Moms, a nonprofit organization that helps parents learn about different kinds of schools. Inga discusses the motivation behind founding the organization, and the importance of parents being able to choose the school that best fits their child's needs. She also discusses how parents can advocate for school choice within their states, and gives advice to parents on finding out their school choice options.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Albert Cheng, Assistant Professor at the Department of Education Reform in the College of Education and Health Professions at the University of Arkansas. Dr. Cheng discusses his work and interest in assessing school choice policy, and its impact on character and virtue formation. Eventually, he also became interested in classical education and its benefits in teaching students civic knowledge. Dr. Cheng has published research on the effects of poetry on learning as well.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Ron Jung, Headmaster at Providence Academy. He discusses the contrast in public school education between when he was a child and now, and how the removal of God and truth from education compelled him to homeschool his children. He states that every parent must ask themselves what their obligation is to God in raising their children, and how that plays out in the education their children are receiving. Ron states that the goal of Providence Academy is to teach students reality as it is.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Roosevelt Montás, Author of Rescuing Socrates: How the Great Books Changed My Life and Why They Matter for a New Generation. Roosevelt discusses immigrating to the United States, studying at public schools, and attending Columbia University. He states that although he was academically driven and successful, as a teacher he has realized that public schools fail by design. Roosevelt explains that the inspiration behind his book was the work of the various thinkers he read during his lifetime that addressed him as a human being.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Ignat Solzhenitsyn, a critically acclaimed conductor and son of Russian Author Alexander Solzhenitsyn. Ignat discusses his father's life in the Russian gulag system, how it inspired him to write The Gulag Archipelago, and the role poetry played in his father's survival. He critiques the American education system, claiming that it does not educate students about the gulags, but rather instills a superficial appeal of certain communist notions. Ignat states that his father Alexander also thought that American society was not living up to its own promises in the founding documents. He also discusses his father's journey from Marxism to Orthodox Christianity.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Morénike Giwa Onaiwu, a parent at the Saint Constantine School in Houston. Morénike explains the definition of the word "woke" in the black community, and how it has been misconstrued in mainstream politics as a consequence of creating labels to define political opinions. She discusses the polarization of political thought and states that most people are more nuanced than they are given credit for. Morénike also shares her thoughts on demonizing one group of people, and the inability of many individuals to view life from a non-political lens.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Dr. David Withun, the founding Head of School at Jacksonville Classical Academy and a W.E.B DuBois scholar. He discusses his journey to discovering the Classics, studying W.E.B DuBois, and becoming head of school. Dr. Withun states that it was his desire to help every student have access to a quality classical education that compelled him to take on a leadership position. He also answers questions about the diversity of classical education and military families attending classical schools.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Dr. Dan Peterson, Head of School at Regents School of Austin. Dr. Peterson explains that his mission is to not just prepare students to receive higher education, rather it is to prepare them for life. He also discusses the fracturing of what education was really designed for, the importance of a test like CLT, and helping students take ownership of their education. He emphasizes that students should have the freedom to fail because the best way to learn is by failing.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Alex Petkas, Princeton graduate and host of the podcast Cost of Glory. He discusses his journey to discovering Christianity and the Classics, ultimately studying at Princeton University and receiving his PhD. Alex states that he noticed a split between the Classics and the Christian tradition in relation to how it was taught in the classroom, and It wasn't until he began his own ancient Greek language program that he became disillusioned with Academia.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Matthew Ryan, Host of #CanonChat: a Twitter-based book club for lovers of great literature. He shares his journey to becoming a Catholic school teacher, and explains the difference in teaching at a public school vs. a Catholic school. He also discusses movements that want to cancel the Classics, the universality of the Great Books, and his Twitter book club.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Martin Cothran, Author of Memoria Press' Traditional Logic, Material Logic, and Classical Rhetoric programs. Martin discusses the education reforms that took place at the turn of the 20th century, and how they shifted emphasis from moral formation to vocation and progressive impulse. He also talks about the importance of classical children's literature, and the definition of classical education.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Dr. C. Bradley Thomson, Professor in the Department of Political Science and Executive Director of the Clemson Institute for the Study of Capitalism. He discusses his views on education reform, stating that he does not believe that Public Schools can be reformed and that they must be abolished completely. Dr. Thompson also states that education is the single most important thing human beings do, yet it is being controlled and corrupted by the government. He claims that similar to the separation between church and state, there must be a separation between school and state.
On this episode of Anchored, Arooba is joined by Allie Beth Stuckey, host of the podcast Relatable. Allie shares her journey to becoming a podcast host, a published author, and an important voice in the Christian conservative world. She explains the difference between being a Republican and a Christian conservative, citing the main difference as the relevance of scripture in political viewpoints. She also talks about her book You're Not Enough (& That's Okay): Escaping the Toxic Culture of Self-Love and discusses how harmful the ideology of narcissistic self-love is for young women. She also discusses why spirituality has replaced scripture.
In this Journey Through the Author Bank seminar, we're joined by Sheikh Hamza Yusuf, President of Zaytuna College and one of the most influential Muslim scholars in the world. He is a proponent of classical learning in Islam and has promoted Islamic sciences and classical teaching methodologies throughout the world. Sheikh Yusuf delves into the life, work, and impact of the medieval Muslim philosopher, Averroes.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by President Demleitner, the 25th president of St. John's College in Annapolis. She discusses her journey to becoming President, the beauty of St. John's college, and the establishment of the Great Books program. She explains how St. John's has been able to attract students across the political spectrum while still remaining an intellectually open campus. President Nora states that classical education is an education that trains students for democracy.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy and Tracy are joined by Dr. Murray Bessette, Vice President of Education at Common Sense Society. He discusses growing up in Canada, and the current political climate of the country. He also shares his journey of leaving academia due to his moral objection to the financial exploitation of very vulnerable students. Dr. Bessette also explains what a free market is, and the moral case for its existence in society.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy and Tracy are joined by Pete Hegseth and David Goodwin, authors of the book Battle for the American Mind: Uprooting a Century of Miseducation. They discuss the origins of classical education, how Christianity transformed the paideia of the west, and the coordinated takeover of education by progressives. They explain the stages of this takeover, starting with the replacement of the Christian faith with patriotism, and the removal of God from classrooms. Pete and David emphasize the return to Christian classical education as the solution to this takeover.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Robert Bortins, CEO of Classical Conversations. Robert shares the story of how Classical Conversation began and developed into serving over 45,000 families now enrolled in its programs spread over 50 countries globally. Robert also discusses his views on the state of mainstream education, the importance of classical education, and the need for Christians to be at the forefront of technology and innovation.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Amber O'Neal Johnston: an author, speaker, mom of 4, and a home educator. Amber shares her experience attending public school, how she encountered homeschooling, and why she chose to teach her children using Charlotte Mason's method of education. She states that reading about homeschooling felt like something was being articulated that Amber had felt in her heart her whole life. Amber also explains the role homeschooling plays in driving curiosity and keeping wonder alive, and why it is important to infuse culture into the homeschooling experience for children.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Tom Sherf, Vice President of Enrollment at Cairn University. Tom discusses his early education, his love for surfing, and his experience attending seminary. He also discusses Cairn university's curriculum and its dual enrollment program. Tom explains what dual enrollment is, and why it's more beneficial for classically educated students compared to AP classes provided by the College Board.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Dr. Heath A. Thomas, 16th President of Oklahoma Baptist University. President Thomas states that OBU's mission is to equip the whole student by teaching them to live all of life, all for Jesus. He explains that knowledge is not just a commodity, but a tool to develop people who have the right kinds of dispositions, virtues, and values. Dr. Thomas also discusses the importance of tradition, stating that we must retreat to the past to project a better future.
On this episode of Anchored, Katie is joined by Dr. Joseph Clair, the Executive Dean of the Cultural Enterprise at George Fox University. Dr. Clair discusses how he discovered the deep connection between the Christian faith and a liberal arts college, which stitched his love for learning with his love for God. He also explains Augustine's vision, specifically his idea that human beings are inherently affectionate. He states that we must ask ourselves whether the western model of education is perpetuating education focused on materialistic gains instead of wisdom.
Join Dr. Mac Sandlin for his lecture on J.R.R in Week 2 of CLT's Journey Through the Author Bank seminar series. Guided by renowned professors from colleges and universities, the series will investigate the men and women who have shaped our intellectual heritage and explore a new thinker each week from CLT's Author Bank.
Dr. Mac Sandlin is an assistant professor of theology and ethics at Harding University in Searcy, AR. He holds a Master of Divinity degree from Harding School of Theology in Memphis, TN and a Ph.D in theology from the University of Dayton. His primary areas of academic interest are virtue ethics, the Holy Spirit, ethics of war and peace, literature and theology, and theology & culture. He teaches in the College of Bible and Ministry and the Honors College at Harding and serves as education director for the Beebe Church of Christ.
On this episode of Anchored, Tracy Gardner is joined by Allan Parker, President of The Justice Foundation. Mr. Parker discusses his work at the Justice Foundation and its mission of supporting parental rights in relation to educating their children. He explains how entering the field of education law shed light on the structural issues within public schools. Mr. Parker also discusses why school choice is a constitutional right, and what the government's role is in creating and regulating public schools.
Join Dr. Brian Williams for his lecture on Dante in Week 1 of CLT's Journey Through the Author Bank seminar series. Guided by renowned professors from colleges and universities, the series will investigate the men and women who have shaped our intellectual heritage and explore a new thinker each week from CLT's Author Bank.
Dr. Brian A. Williams teaches at Eastern University (Philadelphia), where he is Dean of the Templeton Honors College; Dean of the College of Arts & Humanities; and Co-Director of the MA in Classical Teaching (MAT) program. He is the General Editor of Principia: A Journal of Classical Education, a national Alcuin Fellow, a Research Fellow with the Institute of Classical Education, and a member of the Academic Advisory Board for the Classic Learning Test.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy and Tracy are joined by Dr. Adam C. Wright, the sixth president of Dallas Baptist University. Dr. Wright states that the University's campus is a place where students can grow spiritually, and that it is a place that points to the ultimate truth and beauty. He also discusses indoctrination on college campuses, and how Dallas Baptist University teaches students how to think. Dr. Wright shares information on programs and the experience of attending DBU.
On this episode of Anchored, Katie Prefontaine, the Director of College Partnerships at CLT, is joined by two American students studying abroad at the University of Navarra. They share their personal experience of studying abroad and challenges such as getting accustomed to the language barrier. They also talk about the difference in learning, education culture, the difference in faith and how it is embodied, and what makes their experience at Navarra enjoyable.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Leslie Moeller, Chairman of the Board of Society for Classical Learning (SCL). Leslie discusses discovering classical education as a parent, and the desire to teach her children to think well. She also talks about the goals of SCL in helping classical schools, their relationship with Gordon College, and the cohesiveness of classical education.
In this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Dr. Tim Collins, the seventh President of Walsh University. In this role, Dr. Collins oversees all activities furthering the mission of developing leaders in service to others with a value-based education in the Judeo-Christian tradition. Jeremy and Dr. Collins discuss integrating STEM with moral formation and Catholic identity to make science a more humane field of study. They also discuss faith, objective reality, and navigating culturally sensitive issues as the president of a university.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Chris Wright, Executive Director of Morae Classical Schools, a corporation of private classical schools designed to serve military families. Chris served our country for 20 years and retired as Lieutenant Colonel in the Air Force. His experience in the military, in education, and as a father has led him to found schools that better serve our military families. Soren and Chris also discuss the importance of leadership, and what Chris's experience in service of our nation has taught him about being a good school leader.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Salome Palmer, Director of Gordon College's Heritage Program. Salome discusses her experience attending a classical school, and what drew her to attend Gordon College. She also shares that the mission behind founding the Heritage Program was to encourage students to learn to use their head, heart, and hands. Salome states that it isn't enough to teach students to think well, they must also be taught how to live well.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Edward Schaefer, President of Collegium Sanctorum Angelorum. President Schaefer discusses the tradition of music in the Catholic Church and Collegium's commitment to recovering its beauty. He also shares the story of founding the college, naming it, and what freshmen can expect from the curriculum. President Schaefer emphasizes Collegium's commitment to traditional Latin mass, and the duty of higher education in recovering Catholic tradition.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by President Ryken and Silvio Vazquez, Chief Enrollment Management Officer at Wheaton College. They discuss the future of the 4-year college experience, how it changed throughout the pandemic, and how it will continue to change. They also discuss the historical legacy of Wheaton College. President Ryken discusses wokeism, racial issues in America, and what the Gospel says about bringing unity within different groups of people.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Provost Feezell of Belmond Abbey College. Dr. Feezell discusses his early education, which was a mix of books and sports. He also explains the difference between medieval and postmodern man's thinking, the best of the old world. and the commoditization of higher education. Dr. Feezell talks about Belmont Abbey's curriculum, architecture, and the connection between learning, beauty, and formation.
This episode of Anchored is an audio recording of Joshua Gibbs' pamphlet "So Your Parents Are Thinking of Sending You to a Classical Christian School." Joshua Gibbs wrote this pamphlet in his effort to inform high-school students on the beliefs, habits, and goals of a classical Christian school
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by John Johnson, Executive Director at Albertus Magnus Institute. John explains what the Magnus institute is, its goal to take on mainstream college education, and its vision to liberate the Liberal Arts. He also discusses faults in the college education system, and the alternative form of education the Magnus Institute offers. John explains that the Magnus Institute is dedicated to going back to the first principles of education.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Mark Hemingway, Senior Writer for The Weekly Standard. Mark discusses his early education and his unfamiliarity with classical education until 2004, stating how unusual the concept of classical education was in the early years of the renewal. Mark also explains why classical education cannot be accepted by progressives, and how that makes it inconvenient to find great teachers to teach at classical schools. He also addresses the failures of public education, and the mission drift of Catholic classical colleges.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Alvaro de Vicente, Headmaster of The Heights School in Potomac, Maryland. Alvaro discusses the mission of the Heights, and their belief that education is a parental responsibility. He also discusses other topics, such as the relationship between classical education and Catholic education, their mutual search for truth, and the advantages of single-sex education.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Emily Eaton, Assistant Director for Freshman Admission at Palm Beach Atlantic University. Emily reflects on her experience as a homeschooled student and the value Palm Beach Atlantic University places on students who were homeschooled growing up. She shares the journey of how she ended up at PBA, the benefits of attending, and advice on choosing a college to attend. She also discusses the university's curriculum and its Christian identity.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Joshua Gibbs, a teacher at Veritas School of Richmond. Joshua states that for many students, classical education has never been fully explained. He discusses the pamphlet he wrote for teenagers who are enrolling in a classical school but don't know what a classical education entails. Joshua also discusses whether a friendship between a teacher and student is possible, and how important it is for teachers to place themselves within a student's mindset.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Angel Adams Parham, the new President of CLT's Board of Academic Advisors. Angel discusses her background as a Yale graduate and researcher in different countries around the world, and how that gave her greater insight into the classical tradition. She cites her diverse background as the reason she studied sociology and claims it taught her the virtue of listening well. Angel also discusses her work with Dr. Anika Prather on their new book "The Black Intellectual Tradition and the Great Conversation: Black Writers as Essential to an Education in Truth, Goodness, and Beauty” in collaboration with Classical Academic Press.
On this episode of Anchored Jeremy is joined by Dr. Mathew Smith, founding president of Hildegard College, a new college equipping young people in Knowledge, Conviction, and Action. Dr. Smith discusses why he became a college professor and the inspiration behind creating Hildegard. He explains that the vision for the college was born out of a demand for a return to tradition. He discusses the various programs offered at the college, the curriculum, and the cost to attend. Dr. Smith states that the goal of Hildegard is to provide an affordable education that results in communion with God.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Taryn Murphy, CLT's Digital Marketing Manager. Taryn discusses her homeschool education, her studies at Hillsdale College, and the process of applying to scholarships to graduate debt-free. She shares her journey to being chosen as Hillsdale's 2021 Outstanding Senior Woman, and reflects that attending Hillsdale helped her in the "process of becoming." She explains that graduating from Hillsdale was the start of her education, not the end, and that her goal of life-long learning was the reason she chose to work at CLT.
On this episode of Anchored, Arooba is joined by James Kennerley, a multi-faceted musician and Director of Music for St. Paul's Parish and Choir School. James shares how his love for music led him to study at the University of Cambridge and discusses the history of music as a liberal art. James also reflects on the universality of music across space and time, and the timeless emotions it invokes in people of all religions and backgrounds. He explains how St. Paul's Choir School unites a classical academic and musical curriculum with the Catholic moral tradition.
To celebrate the Anchored podcast reaching 100,000 downloads since its conception, we are re-releasing our very first episode with influential scholar and Princeton University professor Robert P. George. In this episode, Dr. George discusses the consequences of society’s abandonment of liberal arts education, the deeper streams of thought that informed the American Founding, and what that means for building unity. He also provides an inside look at his famous friendship with Cornel West and how conversations on texts important to their intellectual journeys led to an enduring relationship that models civil discourse.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy and Arooba are joined by King Randall, I. a 22-year-old native of Albany, GA. Seeing a need to help enhance the lives of young men in his community, he took action to combat the high poverty and crime rates by founding the "X" for Boys organization, where the motto is, "Let US Make Man." He discusses what the organization does, such as hosting a variety of workshops teaching life skills and trades such as automotive repair and home improvement. The organization also hosts a weekly book club for boys to improve literacy. He explains the devastating circumstances that young boys in Albany face, and how teaching them skills can not only help them escape those circumstances but make them better men.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Dr. Brad Hadaway and Dr. Lynn Robson to discuss the Oxford Honors Program and the various other programs at Oxford University colleges. They are joined by two students enrolled in the Oxford Honors Program who discuss how they ended up in the program, and what they enjoy about it. Dr. Hadaway and Dr. Robson discuss the tutorial method of teaching at the colleges and how it benefits students. They also explain the structure of the colleges connected to Oxford University and what makes the system unique compared to other colleges.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Kimberly Farley, a CLT all-star. She is involved in managing customer service, the Accommodations department, and involved in many elements of the student's experience. Kimberly discusses why she made the decision to homeschool her kids and the issues within the public education system that led to that decision. She also explains how she incorporated discipleship into her homeschooling curriculum to instill faith in her children. Kimberly discusses her journey of how she started working at CLT and what she loves most about working with students and families.
On this episode of Anchored, Arooba is joined by Going Godward, the scheduling editor of Chalkboard Review. Recently, Chalkboard Review - a site of education commentary that features a diverse range of voices on all things education, had their Twitter account suspended without explanation. Shortly after, most of their team's accounts, including Going Godward's, were also suspended without explanation. Going Godward discusses the attack launched against Chalkboard review by the NEA for discussing CRT in public school curriculum. She also discusses her personal experience as a social worker with issues that threaten a child's education in public schools. She explains that the Department of Education is working hard to censor individuals that speak out against these issues because it does not want to accept responsibility for failing to provide a good education system for children.
On our final episode for National Catholic Schools week, Chelsea is joined by Dr. Mark Newcomb, Headmaster at Holy Rosary Academy. Dr. Newcomb shares his childhood education, growing up on a farm, and how it helped him in his leadership role at Holy Rosary. He explains that the hardest part about leading an institution is moving away from being simply inspirational to incarnating. He discusses the importance of personal attention at Holy Rosary, and elevating students in areas that they excel in. Dr. Newcomb states that the key for Catholic schools to thrive is to ask, "what is our fundamental relationship to Jesus Christ."
On this episode of Anchored, Chelsea is joined by Sean Maltbie, the Headmaster of Sacred Hearts Academy, as well as Father Robert Alan Sirico, the retired pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Grand Rapids, Michigan. They share their personal stories of Sacred Heart, and how they built a community of teachers who are faithful to the academy's mission. They also discuss cultivating unity between teachers, parents, administrators, and pastors to make the academy work. Father Sirico explains that the goal of Sacred Heart is simple compared to other Catholic schools, stating that they are all about "getting people to heaven."
On this episode of Anchored, Chelsea is joined by Kimberly Begg, Director of Programs and General Counsel of the Ortner Family Foundation. She discusses the foundation's latest project, the Catholic School Playbook. Catholic School Playbook is an online resource designed to help anyone interested in strengthening their Catholic school, including school leaders, pastors, superintendents, teachers, and parents. She explains that Catholic education is in crisis because it has adopted too many traits of modern education and that the best Catholic schools are faithfully Catholic. She states that we need to return to the way the Catholic church taught for 2,000 years in order to nurture the curious nature of children.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy and Chelsea are joined by Andrew Seely, Co-Founder of Institute for Catholic Liberal Education, and Elisabeth Sullivan who is the Executive Director of Institute for Catholic Liberal Education. They discuss the issues that dominate much of Catholic education and schooling in the modern world. They also explain the difference between true Catholic education and classical education, stating that classical education provides the origins whereas Catholic education provides the end. They share how important it is for teachers to be able to express their Catholic faith in Catholic schools, adding that the world is a different place through the eyes of faith.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Chelsea Niemiec, CLT's Director of Catholic School Partnerships. Chelsea discusses how CLT plans to honor National Catholic Schools Week through our podcast, Anchored. She shares her childhood education experience, and how public school stiffled her sense of wonder. Chelsea also shares her journey from studying nutrition at Texas A&M University to becoming a substitute teacher, finding her love for classical education, and then teaching at a catholic classical school. She explains how she incorporated her education in nutrition to teaching, stating that teaching is about looking at the whole picture.
On this episode of Anchored, Soren and Arooba are joined by Mr. Jason Caros, the headmaster at Founders Classical Academy in Lewisville, Texas, and Shrita Bhat, a high school junior at Founders. Mr. Caros shares how his interest in classical education began and what led him to become a headmaster at Founders Classical Academy. He explains that a public charter school like Founders delivers a classical education by rooting itself in the true, the good, and the beautiful.
Shrita Baht discusses a speech she wrote on tyranny, government, and the Constitution. She explains how the founding fathers envisioned America and what we can do to unify the nation.
You can read Shrita's full speech on our blog: https://t.co/ouT8Xm0E8k
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Dr. Michael P. Krom and Dr. Jason Jividen of Saint Vincent College. Dr. Jividen is Associate Professor of Politics in the McKenna School of Business, Economics, and Government while Dr. Krom serves as chair of the Philosophy department, director of Benedictine Leadership Studies, and director of the Faith and Reason Summer Program. They discuss Saint Vincent College's curriculum and what makes the college unique, such as the presence of monks on campus. They also discuss the difference between online and on-campus learning, and how studying in person allows students to form cultural relationships.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Tamara Long, the Vice President for Enrollment Management at Abilene Christian University. Tamara discusses a new opportunity for high school juniors to visit Oxford as part of Abilene Christian University's study abroad program. She explains the importance of studying abroad for students, how it can benefit them in finding their calling, and the planning that went into making this program possible. She also explains how Abilene's study abroad program differs from those of other colleges and universities by maintaining its commitment to the university's Christian mission.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Dr. Brian A. Williams, Dean of the College of Arts and Humanities and Dean of the Templeton Honors College at Eastern University. Dr. Williams discusses his love for books and mythology as a child. He shares his academic journey: initially wanting to become a lawyer, and even briefly opening his own cafe, but then uncovering his interest in the classical tradition and attending Oxford University. He shares how teaching at Oxford transformed his mindset about grading and assessments, and helped him realize that teaching without grading felt more like coaching. Dr. Williams explains in detail how placing more importance on grades can take away a child's love for learning.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy and Arooba are joined by Bethany Mandel, a conservative American columnist and political and cultural commentator. Bethany shares the extreme hardships she faced growing up. Losing her mom at the age of 16, and then her dad to suicide, Bethany often battled with poverty. She explains that what she had to overcome as a young university student shaped much of her conservative views as an adult. She discusses the importance of her current project, Heroes of Liberty, a new children’s biographical book series on great Americans throughout history, and Facebook's attempt to shut down her ad account due to "disruptive content."
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy and Arooba are joined by Christy Shipe, Chairman of the National Christian Forensics and Communications Association (NCFCA) Board. Christy shares her own homeschool story - which began in 1982. Her father was the founder of the Home School Legal Defense Association. When Christy was in her junior year of college, she was hired by HSLDA to start a debate league for homeschool students. She explains that students who are educated classically have a natural understanding of logic, analysis, and communication which lays the groundwork for knowing how to debate well. She states the mission of the NCFCA is to challenge and equip Christian students to communicate truth with integrity and grace.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy and Arooba are joined by Nicole Solas, a stay-at-home mom who was sued by the teacher's union for requesting public school curriculum records. Nicole highlights that schools are incorporating gender theory, and other racially-charged topics into the curriculum while simultaneously removing the input of parents on what their children are being taught. She discusses the importance of schools having full transparency in terms of the school's curriculum so that parents can make decisions accordingly. She also explains that parents should be alarmed that they are not allowed to inquire about what their kids are being taught and that they should be taking initiative without being afraid to be "inconvenienced."
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Arooba Asim, the co-host and podcast producer of Anchored. She is also the CLT social media manager. Arooba discusses her upbringing in rural Pakistan, her early education, and the foundation her family created for her rooted in traditional and religious values that are lost in the modern world. She explains the stark contrast in the lifestyle she experienced when her family moved to Canada, and how growing up in two very different cultures gave her a better understanding of other ways of living. She shares her views on the toxicity of social media, and modern values that have removed people from being able to appreciate the true, the good, and the beautiful.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy and Arooba are joined by Dr. O. Alan Noble, associate professor of English at Oklahoma Baptist University. Dr. Noble discusses his interest in studying culture as a young student, but how challenging it was to learn to do it in a way that honors God. He talks about the existential dread that many students face in response to cultural pressure to perform in a specific way. Dr. Noble also shares the importance of developing a Godly perspective, knowing our limits, and recognizing that some things aren't good for our souls. He explains that the purpose of higher education is to make students ask the question of, "what is the Good life?"
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy and Arooba are joined by Deanna Slamans, an educator and author. Deanna discusses her early childhood of living in poverty, the hardships she faced and overcame in relation to her family's circumstances, the trauma she suffered, and how receiving an education turned her life around. She shares the opportunities attending a school provided for her, and how it helped her strive for more than she had been given. She talks about her book Faith's Pursuit: Understanding God's Faithfulness in Suffering,and how her relationship with God changed as she overcame these hardships, and how it helped her become a better human being, and a better mother.
In this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Dr. Carl Trueman and Lee Wishing from Grove City along with Megan Basham, an entertainment reporter at the Daily Wire. They discuss the recent debate around progressive ideology entering Christian higher education, and specifically on recent incidents surrounding this topic at Grove City College. They discuss the dangers of unchecked racism, anti-racism, and the risks of addressing these issues without alienating individuals on both sides of the debate. They also speak on how universities can prevent leftist ideologies on white guilt from entering classrooms and curriculums while at the same time, speak about racism from a Christian perspective.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy and Dr. Tracy Gardner are joined by Matthew Tolbert, the first-ever student to earn a perfect CLT score. They are also joined by Matthew's parents, Phil and Susan Tolbert. Matthew's parents share their story as a homeschooling family, how they made the decision to homeschool, what they love most about it, and how it molded their children. They describe their homeschooling philosophy as "a tool to explore the natural curiosity that God has instilled in children." Matthew also shares what he loved most about being homeschooled, and why he enjoyed taking the CLT exam. He shares the list of colleges he hopes to apply to, and the traits that are important for him when choosing which college to attend. Matthew's parents end the podcast by offering words of advice and encouragement to families who are new to homeschooling, or who would like to homeschool their children.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy and Arooba are joined by Dr. Jonathan Moo, Professor at Whitworth University. Dr. Moo discusses his journey to obtaining his unique combination of graduate degrees in theology and wildlife ecology. He explains why humans have become so far removed from God's creation, and how studying theology helped him identify the values required to appreciate the world God has created, and how to act in order to preserve it. He also discusses modern-day technology and its effects on students.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Robert L. Luddy, a business and educational entrepreneur. Robert discusses his journey to becoming an entrepreneur, founding a charter school, a network of classical private schools, and a new classical college. He speaks on topics such as the rising cost of college tuition, the importance of being efficient while running a business, and the connection between a liberal arts education and business as a career.
In this episode of Anchored, Jeremy and special co-host Katie are joined by Dan Koch, the host of the You Have Permission podcast. Dan discusses the reasons behind why it has become increasingly difficult for people to be open-minded, and how Catholicism helped him begin to operate from a viewpoint in which his own thinking could be challenged. The central theme of this episode surrounds having the ability to check our own thinking so that we can engage in open dialogue with people of various backgrounds, and political views. Dan and Jeremy also discuss how Catholicism has shaped their worldview, whether universities are compromised, and the redefinition of liberalism.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy and Arooba are joined by VP of Sales and Marketing, Soren Schwab. Born and raised in Germany, and then moving to the United States to attend Hillsdale, Soren discusses the radical difference between the education system in both countries. He explains the transactional nature of schooling he received in Germany, and how shocked he was to discover that Hillsdale offered a completely different experience. He discusses the importance of being taught by professors who genuinely enjoy the work they do, and who keep their own politics out of the classroom. He shares his own journey from being a teacher at Vanguard to becoming an employee at CLT, and why he was willing to take that risk.
In this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by president Tim Gibson of King's College. President Gibson discusses his time in the U.S Air Force, and his journey to becoming the seventh president of King's College. He explains the four commitments of King's College and the Christian worldview that the college has adopted. He also discusses the unique opportunities that King's College provides to students of all backgrounds, and what he hopes to accomplish as president.
On this episode for Anchored, Jeremy and Arooba are joined by Dr. John Mark Reynolds, the president of The Saint Constantine School in Houston, Texas, and a fellow of the Center For Science and Culture at The Discovery Institute. Dr. Reynolds discusses his family history, his dad becoming the first in his family to go to high school, and then deciding to take Dr. Reynolds and his brother out of public school to attend the Christian school he founded. Dr. Reynolds explains how his exposure to classical education led him to acknowledge that we needed a more profound revolution in education, prompting him to open a school that connected K-12 education and undergraduate studies. He also discusses his interest in bridging the gap between science and religion, and how science without God becomes simplistic and reductionist.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy Tate and Tracy Gardner are joined by Dr. Robert L. Jackson, the Chief Academic Officer for a growing network of classical charter schools known as Great Hearts Academies. Dr. Jackson the journey of how Great Hearts began and what makes it different from public education. He explains that Great Hearts is picking up a great American tradition of education that has been displaced in the last century, and he explains what makes an education classical. Dr. Tracy Gardner, the Chief Operating Officer of CLT, also shares her story of enrolling her children in the Great Hearts Academies. Dr. Jackson discusses the role apprenticeship plays in a child's education, and the importance of doing alongside learning.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Dr. Don Sweeting, president of Colorado Christian University. Dr. Sweeting discusses his journey to finding Christ in late high school, and the radical change in motivation and purpose it instilled in him. He explains the disorientation of confidence, and loss of values that many universities face due to cultural backlash. He states that universities that do not have a center rooted in Christ can't define character, and therefore feel pressured to give it up.
On this episode of Anchored, Arooba is joined by David Arndt, a tutor in the integral program of Liberal Arts at Saint Mary's College. David talks about his experience attending public school, and how at a very early age he knew that there was something fundamentally wrong with the way students were taught. He discusses his mother's interest in classical books, and how it sparked his own journey into the world of Liberal Arts. David expresses the timelessness of classical books and says that it is important for students to understand how good books can change their life. He also shares his thoughts on what Liberal Education has lost over time.
This episode of Anchored features Dr. Anika Prather's talk at the 2021 Higher Ed Summit on what the Classics mean to her. Dr. Prather's research focus is on building literacy with African American students through engagement in the books of the Canon. She has served as a teacher, supervisor for student teachers, director of education, and Head of School. Currently, she teaches in the Classics department at Howard University.
This episode features Elias Moo's talk at the 2021 Higher Ed Summit about his transformation from a typical modern educator to an educator who is "discovering the rich educational patrimony of the west". Elias Moo is the Superintendent of Catholic Schools for the Archdiocese of Denver. He holds a bachelor's degree in theology and sociology and master's degrees in education and educational leadership from the University of Notre Dame.
This episode features Robert George's talk at the 2021 Higher Ed Summit. Robert Peter George is an American legal scholar, political philosopher, and public intellectual who serves as the sixth McCormick Professor of Jurisprudence and Director of the James Madison Program in American Ideals and Institutions at Princeton University. He lectures on constitutional interpretation, civil liberties, philosophy of law, and political philosophy. A Catholic, George is considered one of the country's leading conservative intellectuals.
This episode features Jessica Wilson's talk at the 2021 Higher Ed Summit. Jessica Wilson is a professor, author, and speaker. She is also a Louise Cowan Scholar in Residence at the University of Dallas in the Classical Education and Humanities Graduate Program.
This episode features Spencer Klavan's talk at the 2021 Higher Ed Summit. Spencer Klavan is the assistant editor of The Claremont Review of Books and The American Mind at the Claremont Institute. He has a Ph.D. in Classics and is also the host of the Young Heretics podcast.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Tracy Gardner, CLT's Chief Operating Officer. Tracy discusses her love for tests from a young age, her journey to becoming a psychometrician, and how it ultimately led her to CLT. She also shares her relationship with religion, her conversion to Catholicism at the age of 24, and her experience as a Catholic student at the University of Pittsburgh. She discusses her dilemma of creating tests for public schools, and how doing that went against the kind of education she wanted to provide her children. She explains that discovering and working with CLT allowed her to combine her love for testing and classical education.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy and Arooba are joined by Hamza Yusuf, president of the first accredited Muslim undergraduate college in the United States. Growing up with parents who loved truth and knowledge, Hamza Yusuf describes his childhood as multifaceted. He explains that much of his education occurred outside of school with his father, who studied the humanities and worked as a college professor. When Hamza was 17 years old, a head-on collision prompted him to investigate life after death, ultimately leading to his conversion from Irish Catholicism to Islam. Hamza discusses the relationship between the liberal arts and Islam, the troubles of modern ideologies influencing Islamic education, and the decline of western civilization caused by forgetting its secret sauce…classical education.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy and Arooba are joined by Oscar Ortiz Duarte, CEO, and Superintendent of Heritage Classical Academy. Oscar discusses his early life growing up in Honduras and describes how different education and schooling was for lower-class individuals. He explains his first encounter with beauty through reading at a young age and how it opened the gateway for truth and knowledge for him. Oscar’s belief if that classical education is for everyone, and this belief fuels his mission to open a free, classical charter school for children of lower-income families. He hopes that he will be able to show others that classical education equips lower-income families with the tools to thrive in the world.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Dale Ahlquist, President of the Society of Gilbert Keith Chesterton. Dale discusses becoming a fan of Chesterton through other writers such as C.S Lewis, and how Chesterton’s artistic way of weaving different subject matters made him unique. He also discusses his journey of co-founding the original Chesterton Academy, which ultimately became a network of more than 60 schools and counting, drawing on the Chesterton Academy curriculum and approach. Dale explains that his vision for Chesterton Academy was to give students the kind of education that he wishes he had. Dale emphasizes the importance of creating complete thinkers through classical education, adding that, “Classical teaching is teaching happiness.”
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Noah Tyler, CLT’s Chief Financial Officer. Noah discusses his experience being homeschooled at a young age, and how it set him apart from his peers. He explains the process of choosing a university that aligns with your values, especially if you were once homeschooled. Noah also discusses his career as a test-prep tutor, his love for teaching, and what compelled him to join CLT. Jeremy and Noah reminisce on some of CLT’s earliest memories -- from test-preparation to pitching to colleges like Hillsdale. They also discuss how they came up with CLT’s core values: Passionate, Anchored, Accurate.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy and Arooba are joined by Dave Rubin, a political commentator and Youtube Personality. They discuss free speech on university campuses, politically charged curricula, and what society can learn from events that have occurred throughout history. Dave also explains how the labels around political identities have changed, and the difference between an old-school liberal vs a progressive. They discuss public schooling, and the different options available to parents who would like to take back control of what their children are learning.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by three guests from Benedictine College – Dr. Kim Shankman, Dr. Eddie Mulholland, and Dr. Denis McNamara. They discuss the role Catholic faith has played in creating some of the world’s best architecture. They also have profound conversations surrounding education and modernity, such as maintaining tradition without repeating other’s work, the importance of a true liberal arts education, and the shift of architecture from beauty to brutalism. Our guests explain the consciousness required to keep Benedictine College true to its mission of providing students with an environment where faith finds them.
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Jeff Sikkenga, Executive Director of the Ashbrook Program and Professor of Political Science at Ashland University. As a professor of undergraduate and graduate courses in political thought and American history, Professor Sikkenga discusses how the decline in history majors has affected society. He explains that historical perspective aids us in understanding and facing current issues, and that all great American leaders were profound students of history. He shares that the importance of history is to have a conversation with the past, and that without this conversation, we forget the “why” of America. Professor Sikkenga also highlights the consequences of misinterpreting the Constitution in relation to current events.
Host: Jeremy Tate
Guest: Jeff Sikkenga
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Dr. Karen Swallow Prior, a Research Professor of English and Christianity and Culture at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Dr. Prior discusses her love for 18th century British literature, the earliest beginnings of fiction, and the role fiction played in the 18th century. She highlights the difference between novel writing and literary fiction, explaining that literary fiction recreates an experience through words, and offers an understanding of our own lives. Dr. Prior also discusses how the decline in novel writing can be attributed to the disbelief in originality and individualism.
Guest: Karen Swallow Prior
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy and Arooba are joined by Dr. Michael Naughton, director of the Center for Catholic Studies at the University of St. Thomas. Dr. Naughton discusses his expertise in Catholic Social Thought in relation to work, business, and organizational life. He explains how reading John Paul II’s letter on human work helped him understand the theology of work in all areas of life, and bridge the gap between Catholicism and Business. He discusses that universities have become too focused on their external good rather than their internal good and how Catholic Studies can reform the nature of universities. He highlights that although it is important for students to find worthwhile careers, they must also grow intellectually through their love for education in order to understand the inherent goodness of those careers.
Guest: Dr. Michael Naughton
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy and Arooba are joined by President Dub Oliver, the 16th President of Union University. President Oliver talks about Union and the unique education it provides its students. He explains that College years are the most formative years of a young adult's life and the importance of structuring that growth around faith and virtue. He also discusses why many students walk away from their faith during their college years, and he shares advice for students who are attending college in an era that is increasingly hostile to faith.
Guest: President Oliver
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy and Arooba are joined by Ryan Kelly Clark. Ryan is the founder of Scholarship Navigator, a company dedicated to teaching students and families how to strategically find, apply for, and win college scholarships. Ryan discusses why she founded Scholarship Navigator, how applying for scholarships gave her the financial stability to attend college, and how it ultimately helped her graduate debt-free. She discusses how difficult it has become for students to go to college with rising tuition fees and how student loans can hinder a student’s ability to enjoy his or her learning experience. Ryan also shares tips for homeschool students to help them find a college that aligns with their values, start applying early for scholarships, and graduate debt-free.
Guest: Ryan Kelly Clark
On the latest episode of Anchored, Jeremy and Arooba are joined by Dr. Joseph Wysocki, Dean of the Honors College at Belmont Abbey College. Dr. Wysocki discusses how taking a class on Plato’s Republic ignited his love for politics, and how it reopened questions that he thought were already answered. He explains that modern education has moved to promote activism because activism suggests that you already have answers to all the questions. Dr. Wysocki also discusses the Schola program, a summer program for high school students at the Honors College. He speaks on the connection between beautiful architecture and learning, and how our surroundings help to elevate us to God. Finally, he discusses that the purpose of a liberal education is to learn how to reason well.
In this new series of Anchored, Jeremy and Arooba sit down with Rachel Greb, the Director of Secondary Partnerships at CLT. Rachel discusses her early education in classical and Christian studies and how it influenced the rest of her education as well as her career. Rachel gives insight into what "classical" means to her and why classical education is the best way to educate children. Rachel also discusses the journey of starting her own school, Oakdale Academy, and how difficult it is for young private schools to establish legitimacy. She advises students pursuing higher education to view their education as their own responsibility, striving to learn as much as possible about the world around them.
In this episode, Jeremy and Arooba sit down with Matt Scogin, the 14th president of Hope College. President Scogin grew up in a family with a deep appreciation for higher education, and despite spending much of his early years in government and business, President Scogin eventually felt called by God to apply for presidency at Hope College.
He discusses his very ambitious plan to make Hope College tuition-free in order to move away from transactional relationships with students. President Scogin explains that the fear of graduating with debt skews students' views of education, causing them to see university as an investment rather than a place to learn and grow.
Host: Jeremy Tate, Arooba Asim
Guest: Matt Scogin
On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy and Arooba are joined by Robert Pondiscio, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and a former inner-city public school teacher. Robert begins by discussing his blue-collar upbringing, and his relatively normal experience attending public school as a child. He explains that his relatable experience makes him the perfect candidate to connect with and aid students. Mr. Pondiscio received his Bachelor in English from State University of New York at the age of 40 and became a teacher at one of the lowest performing schools in the South Bronx. It was then that he became skeptical of school curriculum and the training teachers were receiving. Mr. Pondiscio explains that he became a school choice advocate because he saw no other way to give students the education they deserved. He emphasizes the role school choice plays in leveling the playing field for low-income families.
Host: Jeremy Tate, Arooba Asim
Guest: Robert Pondiscio
In this episode of Anchored, Jay P. Greene, a senior research fellow for education policy at The Heritage Foundation, sits down with Jeremy to discuss his current areas of research in school choice and the effect of schools on non-cognitive and civic values. Greene highlights the decline in history majors due to a shift to vocational institutes and students' desires to get job-specific degrees in modern education. He also points out the shortcomings of the Department of Education, and why the federal government should not handle education policy. Greene explains that the increase in support for school choice is backed by parents who believe that the values taught in schools matter, and that education is an extension of child-rearing.
On the latest episode of Anchored, Jeremy and Arooba are joined by Dr. Aaron Howard, the CEO at As One Christian Diversity, an organization devoted to helping Christian schools, universities and organizations hire and retain a diverse staff rooted in biblical integrity. Dr. Howard talks about his time studying at Vanderbilt University, and his natural progression to studying ethics and society due to his love of Jesus and the church. He emphasizes his passion for diversity and inclusion using scriptural principles, with his main influence being Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. Howard also discusses how applying scriptural principles in our day-to-day lives can bridge the gap between different races and ethnicities.
Host: Jeremy Tate, Arooba Asim
Guest: Dr. Aaron Howard
Note: This is part 2 of our conversation with Michael Ortner. In the second part of our conversation, Michael Ortner discusses what initially attracted him to the CLT mission and the role standardized testing plays in shaping school curricula. He also discusses his other initiatives such as B. school, a Bootcamp specially designed to help humanities graduates enter the business world. Michael explains that the business world is in dire need of philosophy students and that B. school helps bridge the gap between them. He also discusses his work with Run with Saints - a project that helps practicing Catholics, especially students, connect with thriving Catholic communities and institutions.
Note: This is part 1 of our conversation with Michael Ortner. Acclaimed entrepreneur, CEO, investor, and philanthropist Michael Ortner joins Jeremy and Arooba to discuss his journey with Capterra, one of the largest business-to-business websites of all time and winner of numerous awards. He discusses how reading classic books helped him regain his sense of wonder, which led him to pursue a degree in philosophy at the University of London, and how homeschooling his children with the classics revolutionized the way they learned. Michael also discusses his current role on the board of Cana Academy, an educational non-profit that trains teachers to run Socratic seminars.
Host: Jeremy Tate, Arooba Asim
Guest: Michael Ortner
On the latest episode of Anchored, our CEO Jeremy Tate and special Co-Host Arooba Asim sit down with Linsey Knerl, a freelance digital marketer, a homeschooling mom of six, and author of the book “Homeschooling Hacks, How to Give Your Kids a Great Education Without Losing Your Job (or Your Mind)”. Throughout the episode, Linsey shares the tips and tricks she learned throughout her homeschooling experience. She explains that what attracted her to homeschooling was not the bureaucracy or the politics, but the desire to help her children reach their full potential by maximizing their talents. She also discusses the role classical education played in reaching that potential. Linsey ends off by discussing the various resources the internet can provide homeschooling families to further aid them on their journey.
Host: Jeremy Tate
Co-Host: Arooba Asim
Guest: Linsey Knerl
On the latest episode of Anchored, Jeremy Tate is joined by Abby Roth - also known as Classically Abby, a social media influencer and YouTuber. Abby starts off by sharing her experience attending Jewish day school as a child, and later studying Oprah at the University of Southern California. Abby and Jeremy discuss the state of public schooling, and whether homeschooling is a better option for educating children. Abby talks about the different options that are available for parents who cannot afford to homeschool their children or send them to private schools.
Host: Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest: Abby Roth @ClassicallyAbby
On the latest episode of Anchored, our CEO Jeremy Tate is joined by Paul E. Peterson, the Henry Lee Shattuck Professor of Government and Director of the Program on Education Policy and Governance at Harvard University. They discuss the importance of school choice and the gaps in public education that prevent teachers from exploring a student’s full potential. Dr. Peterson is also the author of Saving Schools: From Horace Mann to Virtual Learning. The book traces the story of the rise, decline, and potential resurrection of American public schools. Dr. Peterson highlights countries where school choice is implemented, such as the Netherlands, and how it benefits people of different religions and cultures.
On the latest episode of Anchored, Our CEO Jeremy Tate sits down with Dr. Jose Torralba and student Alec Ebersole, both from the University of Navarra, which is located in Pamplona, Spain. The founder of Navarra described his ideals for the university as “[wanting] learned men to be formed here, with a Christian understanding of life; we want this environment, suitable for quiet reflection, to cultivate science rooted in its most solid principles so that this light might shine over all the roads of knowledge.” Jeremy discusses the great books program with Dr. Torralba, which focuses on a return to the western Liberal Arts tradition in education. The University of Navarra is currently ranked among the top 100 universities in the world in five areas of the international QS rankingHost: Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest: Dr. Jose Torralba and Alec Ebersole
On this special edition of Anchored, Zuby–a rising public figure and influential rapper–joins Jeremy and Arooba to share his insights into how education has changed in the United States and the accessibility of education in the modern world. He discusses his time at Oxford, how the history and beauty of a student’s environment can inspire them, how the quality of university education has changed, and some of the political biases that may be rooted in academia. The three of them go on to discuss the value of education, in an age where there is more information instantly available on our cell phones than there is in the Harvard Library. Regardless of whether someone attends college, Zuby argues, they must be able to use their knowledge in the real world.Host: Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest: Zuby @Zubymusic
Dr. Larry Taylor is the president of the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI). The organization, "exists to strengthen Christian schools and equip Christian educators worldwide as they prepare students academically and inspire them to become devoted followers of Jesus Christ. Serving more than 25,000 schools in 108 countries, ACSI helps more than 5.5 million students worldwide connect to Christian education." In this episode, Dr. Taylor discusses his own academic journey, how the revitalization of Christian education is unfolding, and expounds on the significance of the growing classical renewal movement.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest Dr. Larry Taylor @ACSIPresident
Rosemary Vander Weele is the principal of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Classical School in Denver, CO. On this episode, she joins Jeremy to discuss her personal academic journey which led her to question the modern educational approach and instead focus on leading in service to human formation through an authentically Catholic education. She also discusses the challenges and rewards of growing enrollment at a Catholic school focused on reinstating faith's central role in education.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest Rosemary Vander Weele
Dr. Mark Bauerlein is Senior Editor at First Things and Professor of English at Emory University. He joins Jeremy to discuss the trends that have overcome many universities’ humanities programs, particularly in English departments; a focus on hyper-specialization, as well as an overemphasis on theory, has meant that modern English departments do little to engage with the big ideas of truth and humanity found in great literature. Mark also discusses the importance of aesthetic independence in evaluating art, especially during a time in which the political and historical considerations of artists' backgrounds have become the primary focus of the academy. Additionally, he considers the degradation of the humanities in respect to university administrations' increasing concern with business elements of the higher ed model, and examines why education conservatism has found a new audience.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest Mark Bauerlein @mark_bauerlein
On this special episode of the Anchored podcast, Jeremy is joined by six CLT10 Award Winners from prior years (this distinction is offered to students with the highest scores on the CLT10). Jeremy and the students dive deep into questions and topics concerning what makes a good education, how speech and debate informs a deeper understanding of various worldviews, the ways in which the classical renewal movement may grow over the next several years, and the social and cultural implications of social media usage among today’s school-aged population.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guests CLT10 Award Winners
Michael Farris is the founder of the Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA), the founder of Patrick Henry College, and the current president and CEO of the Alliance Defending Freedom. On this episode, he discusses the cultural environment of the early 1980s which acted as the impetus for HSLDA’s founding—every state Attorney General considered homeschooling unlawful. He also discusses the creation of Patrick Henry College, which boasts exceptional outcomes in pre-law education to include twelve national moot court championships, one international moot court championship, and average LSAT scores which rival Harvard, Yale, and Princeton. Additionally, Michael discusses important cases in his career, to include People v. DeJonge, in which the requirement for homeschooling parents to hold professional teaching certifications was deemed unconstitutional by the Supreme Court of Michigan.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest Michael Farris
Home School Legal Defense Association
Dr. Joe Rigney is the second president of Bethlehem College & Seminary (Took office June 1, 2021). On this episode, he discusses tenets of C.S. Lewis' The Abolition of Man, to include commentary on the destructive nature of modern turns toward subjectivism in philosophy and education generally. Dr. Rigney also discusses Lewis' use of the term "Tao" to demonstrate the concept of objective morality and truth as transcending cultures and illustrating a universal human reality. He also discusses his vision as Bethlehem's new president, to include a discussion on the college's decision to turn down federal funding—this fact has allowed the school to maintain its principals and academic virtues in the face of growing hot-button cultural issues. Dr. Rigney also discuss a core mission of the university in helping students graduate debt-free.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest Dr. Joe Rigney @joe_rigney
Bethlehem College & Seminary
Dr. Glenn Loury is the Merton P. Stoltz Professor of Social Sciences and Professor of Economics at Brown University. In this episode, Dr. Loury discusses his response to a letter written by Brown University President Christina Paxson, in which she noted that structures of power and histories of oppression and prejudice define American society. Of the letter he wrote: "it asserted controversial and arguable positions as though they were axiomatic certainties." He also talks with Jeremy about his new course at Brown centered on freedom of expression, which includes works from such minds as Plato, Socrates, Milton, John Stuart Mill, and George Orwell. Additionally, he references Allan Bloom's The Closing of the American Mind and reflects on his teaching career and the shifting nature of higher education.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest Dr. Glenn Loury @GlennLoury
I Must Object: A rebuttal to Brown University’s letter on racism in the United States
Education historian Jack Schneider and journalist Jennifer Berkshire join Jeremy to discuss their book, The Wolf at the Schoolhouse Door: The Dismantling of Public Education and the Future of School in which theydescribe policies and political undertakings such as school vouchers, attacks on teachers’ unions, tax credit scholarships, virtual schools, etc., as part of a larger organized effort to undo U.S. public education. The authors discuss competing visions in modern education, and the conflict between a lost history of educational practice and an anxiety about the future direction of education—they also discuss the dangers of treating school as a means of advancing a modern economy, while also recognizing the importance of addressing inclusivity and economic disadvantage in discussions involving educational practice and philosophy.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guests Jack Schneider @Edu_Historian and Jennifer Berkshire @BisforBerkshire
A Wolf at the Schoolhouse Door
Have You Heard? podcast
Dr. Stephen Blackwood has held fellowships at Harvard, Cambridge, and the University of Toronto, and is the founding president of Ralston College in Savannah, GA. In this episode, he discusses his childhood growing up on on Prince Edward Island and the ways in which his formative years taught him that human life does not exist in the abstract, but rather in the particulars—places, times, landscapes, and cultural moments all inform humanity. He also discusses his friendship with Jordan Peterson and the notion that Dr. Peterson's positive vision of human potential has served as an antidote to the alienation and crisis of meaning felt by many in the current social moment. Dr. Blackwood also discusses his vision for Ralston College; its vision entails the promotion of free inquiry in pursuit of truth and human flourishing, especially at a time when these directives have left many modern universities.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest Dr. Stephen Blackwood @stephenblackwd
Ralston College
Faith Moore is a freelance writer, editor, and a stay-at-home mom. She has been published in The Wall Street Journal, The New York Daily News, The Daily Wire, and more. She joins Jeremy to discuss her recent Federalist article,"Instead of Canceling Snow White, Learn to Read Fairy Tales." In this episode, she discusses her response to the authors of an SFGate article in which they describe Disneyland's depiction of the famous kiss scene from Snow White as problematic. She further discusses the ways in which the current cultural zeitgeist is assigning literal meanings to fairy tales whose generational relevance continues because of their symbolism and moral depictions. She shines light on important aspects of Grimm's Fairy Tales, and the universality of fairy tale themes when considering the similarity of story themes across cultures.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest Faith Moore @FaithKMoore
"Instead of Canceling Snow White, Learn to Read Fairy Tales"
Saving Cinderella: What Feminists Get Wrong About Disney Princesses And How To Set It Right
Heather Mac Donald is the Thomas W. Smith Fellow at the Manhattan Institute, a contributing editor of City Journal, and a New York Times bestselling author. In this week's episode, Heather discusses her time as a graduate student in comparative literature at Yale and the events that led her to uncover the faults in deconstruction and other postmodernist theories. She illustrates how current trends in higher education have impeded a manner of education which philosopher Michael Oakeshott referred to as the "transmission of an inheritance from one generation to the next." She also discusses her article, "The Bias Fallacy"— she outlines why efforts to remove objective measures of accomplishment in the name of equity is nihilistic, as well as efforts to vilify Western civilization.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest Heather Mac Donald
"The Bias Fallacy" in City Journal
Brent Everett Dickinson is a multi-disciplinary conceptual artist and associate professor of art at Azusa Pacific University in California. In 2017, Dickinson founded the MMHTT (Marcel Maus Hermeneutical Think Tank), a multimedia web project driven by philosophical concepts such as power, authorship, immanence, performativity, and deterritorialization. In this week's discussion, Dickinson delves into the interplay between philosophy and art, as well as conceptions of beauty, stirring the debate as to whether beauty is truly objective. Dickinson also discusses "Chaosmos" (a term coined by James Joyce) in relation to the production and sustainment of culture—he notes that Western culture is one that perpetually produces the new, and thus conservatism and progressivism act in accord to some degree.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest Brent Everett Dickinson
Erika Donalds is the founder and CEO of the Optima Foundation—its goal is the successful launch of Hillsdale College Barney Charter School Initiative classical academies and other schools of excellence across the state of Florida. She also served on the Advisory Committee on Education and Workforce Development for Florida governor Ron DeSantis. In this episode, she joins Jeremy to discuss the events that led her to question the Common Core State Standards and other top-down approaches to education, and she illustrates the benefit of classical education in her son's life, and how this revelation led her down the path to becoming a school choice advocate and facilitator.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest Erika Donalds @ErikaDonalds
Optima Foundation
Dr. Peter Wood, president of the National Association of Scholars (NAS), joins Jeremy to discuss the recent NAS report, "Corrupting the College Board: Confucius Institutes and K-12 education." He discusses the connection between the College Board and Hanban, the Beijing-based headquarters of the Confucius Institutes—an organization that provides Chinese government-funded language and cultural education within both U.S. colleges and K-12 schools. In recent years, the Confucius Institutes have received criticism from professors due to their role in Chinese government influence on academic freedom, overt censorship of academic materials, and surveillance of classroom activities. Dr. Wood delves into the growing relationship between the College Board and Hanban at a time when American scholars were growing increasingly alarmed by the pernicious influence of the Chinese state-funded academic initiatives on U.S. campuses. He also sheds light on the implications of these developments for academic integrity within U.S. K-12 schools.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest Dr. Peter Wood
Corrupting the College Board: Confucius Institutes and K-12 Education
Register now for the CLT10 on April 28th!
Sean-Michael Pigeon, Young Voices Contributor and Yale University student, joins Jeremy to discuss his recent USA Today op-ed, "Don't Blame the Tests: Getting Rid of Standardized Testing Means Punishing the Poor." He discusses studies over the past decade which examined score disparities in relation to socio-economic status and led to public questions concerning higher education access—ultimately, the current social moment deems standardized tests as a driver of systemic unfairness. Sean-Michael discusses this movement as promoting equity by attacking "academic sorting." He notes that school districts across the country are eliminating advanced learning classes and traditional A-F grading systems in an effort to reduce unequal outcomes, but are in effect eliminating opportunities for marginalized communities to showcase their talent. He argues that this approach will only exacerbate the ability of the wealthy and well-connected to dominate academic systems.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest Sean-Michael Pigeon @pigeon_sean
USA Today: Don't Blame The Tests
April 13th Remotely Proctored CLT: Register Here
Elias Moo, one of the youngest Catholic school superintendents in the country (Archdiocese of Denver), joins Jeremy to discuss a trend of recent years in which Catholic schools attempt to replicate a utilitarian public school model, one which increasingly dehumanizes students in its attempt to make education production-focused. Elias makes the case that Catholic schools should be committed to the liberal arts and poses the important question to all educators: "What is the true nature and purpose of education?" He also cites Pope Pius XI's Divini Illius Magistri —"Education must prepare man for what he must be and what he must do here below in order to obtain the sublime end for which he was created," a radically different sentiment than derived from the education we see in modern American society.
Host Jeremy Tate
Guest Elias Moo @ArchDenSuper
CLT10 coming up on April 28th! Click here for more details.
Eric Cook is the Head of School at Covenant Classical School and President of the Society for Classical Learning (SCL). He joins Jeremy to discuss classical education in the 21st century and the ways in which teaching in a public school led him to the classical education movement. He also examines the holistic nature of classical education, which has informed his endeavors as SCL president to make classical education accessible to all backgrounds. Jeremy and Eric also discuss the importance of finding good teachers at classical schools, as well as having strong thought leadership throughout the classical renewal movement in education.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest Eric Cook
Kevin Clark (founder of the Ecclesial Schools Initiative) and Ravi Jain (calculus and physics teacher at the Geneva School) join Jeremy to discuss their book The Liberal Arts Tradition: A Philosophy of Christian Classical Education, as well as the classical education renewal movement in modern society. They begin by briefly discussing the history of 20th century education, to include the exportation of the American progressive education model across the world. They also discuss the reasons they began their book by discussing gymnastics, the critical role of culture to a school's success, and the deeper meaning behind musical education. Mathematics education is also examined thoroughly, to include the misguided notion that a math education must always be presented to students in terms of its practical application—that is, its value in study can lead students to much more meaningful questions about the connection of the physical world to the world of ideas, as well as a greater understanding of truth.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guests Kevin Clark and Ravi Jain
The Liberal Arts Tradition: A Philosophy of Christian Classical Education
Dr. Anika Prather joins Jeremy with a group of her humanities students from Howard University—Nia Anderson, Joseph Andrew Jordan, and Joshua Hughes. The students discuss the meaning of classical education within the African-American intellectual tradition, to include such important figures as Phillis Wheatley, Anna Julia Cooper, Frederick Douglass, and Martin Luther King, Jr. Professor Prather and her students also discuss the #DisruptTexts movement and what it means for the future of education—the removal of books from curricula may be the product of good intentions, but will likely have harmful educational outcomes.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest Dr. Anika Prather @AnikaFreeindeed
Dr. Douglas Henry, Dean of the Honors College at Baylor University, joins Jeremy to discuss the impact of great works of literature, politics, and philosophy on both his own academic formation and in the larger life of the Honors College. Dean Henry discusses the college's commitment to the integration of faith and learning and how this has led the college to become not only favored by Baptist students, but Catholic students as well. Dr. Henry further expounds on the Great Books as a foundation for public discourse, what this has meant for his time in the classroom, the importance of engaging with great ideas to become a lifelong learner, and why the institution of higher learning will lose its soul if it neglects its commitment to educating students in this manner.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest Dr. Douglas Henry
Humanities Teachers- Deadline Approaching! Apply to Baylor's NEH Summer Seminar 2021: Disputatio and the Pursuit of Wisdom in the Humanities! ($2,200 stipend)
Jon Balsbaugh, President of Trinity Schools, joins Jeremy to discuss the important distinction that separates schooling from an education striving for "human awakening." Jeremy and Jon also discuss C.S. Lewis' vision of education, his understanding of the troubling trajectory of education, and the importance of the training of affections. Jon further illustrates the relevancy of the Great Books by underscoring their ability to pose timeless questions to today's students, and he shares insight into the Classical renewal movement.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest Jon Balsbaugh
Frank Bruni of The New York Times once dubbed St. John's College the "most contrarian college in America." On this episode, St. John's College President Pano Kanelos joins Jeremy to discuss the history of the school (one of the oldest colleges in the U.S.) and the academic reorientation that took place there in the early 20th century, one inspired by the Great Books movement facilitated by Mortimer Adler and others. He also discusses the issues of cost in higher education and highlights the "Freeing Minds" campaign and other efforts that St. John's took to lower tuition and improve access by rolling back over a decade of tuition increases. Dr. Kanelos also discusses a 2018 trip to South Korea (as well as other countries in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East) and the conversations that showcased an eagerness for liberal arts education across the globe. Send questions or comments to anchored@cltexam.com.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest President Pano Kanelos
Keith Nix, Head of School at Veritas in Richmond, VA, joins Jeremy with Sam Davis, a Veritas student. On this episode, Keith discusses the history of Veritas School, the beginnings of its historic campus in Richmond, and its mission in classical education. The conversation moves to architecture and its relation to learning—how does physical space impact imagination and academic outcomes? Keith also examines the current momentum of classical education and what this means for the future. Additionally, Jeremy talks with Sam on the ways in which classical education has informed his school community and ultimately his perspective on education's role in personal formation.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guests Keith Nix and Sam Davis
Humanities Teachers—Apply to Baylor's NEH Summer Seminar 2021: Disputatio and the Pursuit of Wisdom in the Humanities! ($2,200 stipend)
Note: This is Part 2 of our conversation with Dr. West. Cornel West begins this episode by responding to a question from the producer: has the advancement of technology created a culture in which the desire for wisdom is supplanted by the demand for instant access to information? He also discusses modern conceptions of identity and the way in which these conceptions have become detached from larger questions and ideals, the elements of education and life that lead to personal fortification, and the dialectical interplay between one's familial "roots" and the routes that a person takes in life. Dr. West also discusses curricula, the notions of excellence in texts, and the ways in which this excellence builds upon itself and reveals that truth is bigger than all of us.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest Dr. Cornel West @CornelWest
Note: This is Part 1 of our conversation with Dr. West. Renowned public philosopher Dr. Cornel West joins Jeremy to share his insight into the current cultural moment and efforts to remove the Classics from school curricula. He discusses his famous friendship with Princeton's Robert P. George and highlights the troubles that arise when friendships hinge only on ideological agreement, and how society is fractured by conversations halted due to cancel culture. He also shares his views on the #DisruptTexts movement by exploring the distinctions that separate an education rooted in deep intellectual and moral formation from modern-day "schooling," and examines why texts rich in terms of generating conversation are being lost to polarization. Dr. West also discusses his time studying with Hans-Georg Gadamer, and shines light on conceptions of tradition and the Greek idea of paedeia, and reflects on Martin Luther King Jr. and his legacy in terms of love, justice, and courage. Send questions or comments to anchored@cltexam.com.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest Dr. Cornel West @CornelWest
Note: This is Part 2 of an episode co-release detailing responses to the #DisruptTexts movement which caught national attention. Meghan Cox Gurdon is an author and weekly columnist for The Wall Street Journal, where she writes on children's books. Her recent op-ed in the WSJ, entitled "Even Homer Gets Mobbed," outlined efforts by the group #DisruptTexts to have works of the Western Canon removed from school curricula (the movement's official statement: #DisruptTexts is a crowdsourced, grass roots effort by teachers for teachers to challenge the traditional canon in order to create a more inclusive, representative, and equitable language arts curriculum that our students deserve. It is part of our mission to aid and develop teachers committed to anti-racist/anti-bias teaching pedagogy and practices). In this episode, Meghan joins Jeremy to discuss not only the impetus for writing this article, but also the overwhelming response that she received in response, as well as the larger movement of critical theory within our institutions. While discussing the laudable efforts toward more representative literature for children, she describes the results of misguided efforts to declare texts not reflective of modern sensibilities as "dangerous" and "harmful." She also discusses her book The Enchanted Hour, which examines the social, mental, and physiological benefits of reading aloud. Send questions or comments to anchored@cltexam.com.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest Meghan Cox Gurdon
Even Homer Gets Mobbed
DisruptTexts
The Enchanted Hour
Note: This is Part 1 of an episode co-release detailing responses to the #DisruptTexts movement which caught national attention. As Superintendent of Schools for the Boston Archdiocese, Thomas Carroll joins Jeremy to discuss the challenges that he faced in his new role during a global pandemic. Amid public statements by Massachusetts' three largest teachers unions indicating that schools would continue remote-learning indefinitely, Mr. Carroll weighed the evidence and sought to re-open Catholic schools in Boston. His decision—while initially receiving backlash—produced outcomes lauded by Mass. Gov. Charlie Baker, and the reopenings were featured in several national newspapers. Mr. Carroll discusses these events, as well as his larger goals and work toward revitalizing Catholic education by moving the schools away from secularization and re-focusing on religious formation. Tom also discusses his response to the #DisruptTexts movement which caught national attention on Twitter as members of the coalition congratulated their work in having Homer's Odyssey removed from a Mass. school curriculum.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest Thomas Carroll @BostonCathSupt
How Boston Catholic Schools Opened for In-Person Learning Amid the Pandemic
Covid and the Catholic Schools—WSJ
Dr. Greg Thompson is the Executive Director of Voices Underground, an initiative to build a national memorial to the Underground Railroad, and he is a Research Fellow in African American Cultural Heritage at Lincoln University. He joins Jeremy to discuss his recent response to Rod Dreher's new book Live Not By Lies: A Manual for Christian Dissidents, to include the notion that it imports a fear-based worldview into the Benedictine Tradition. Other issues he touches on include reparations, why many criticisms of critical theory (as well as popular conceptions of "wokeness" in the current culture and academia) are misguided, the ways in which some elements of current social movements are leaning toward illiberalism, and how the writings of W.E.B. DuBois and Martin Luther King Jr. still echo today. Send questions or comments to anchored@cltexam.com.
Host Jeremy Tate
Guest Greg Thompson
The Return of the Cold Warrior: Reflections on Rod Dreher's Live Not By Lies
Woke Preacher: Live Not by Lies is 'Dangerous'
Reparations: A Christian Call for Repentance and Repair
LCDR Ali Ghaffari is an F/A-18 pilot, Associate Director of the Stockdale Center for Ethical Leadership at the United States Naval Academy, and the founder of Divine Mercy Academy, a classical liberal arts school formed in the Catholic tradition. He joins Jeremy to discuss his academic journey and the educational experiences that led him to not only discover and favor classical education for its formative nature, but also to found a classical school. He also discusses the ways in which the classics can enrich and inform leadership development.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest LCDR Ali Ghaffari
Divine Mercy Academy
An examination of the current moment demonstrates that the United States is mired in a social crisis which is intensifying political polarization. What role do institutions play in staving off further discord? Yuval Levin is the founding editor of National Affairs and the Director of Social, Cultural, and Constitutional Studies at the American Enterprise Institute. He joins Jeremy to discuss his book A Time to Build and delves into a conversation on the role of institutions in shaping people and common goals. Yuval touches on the ways in which institutional failures are engendering social difficulties, paying particular attention to the shifting role of higher education. While the cultural debate concerning free speech on campus seems to have captured the attention of the American public, Yuval notes that renewed discussion on the purpose of higher education—one that focuses on the pursuit of truth through teaching and learning—may hold promise not only for the formative experience of college itself, but may also provide answers to the growing enrollment quandary in the U.S. today. Send questions or comments to anchored@cltexam.com.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest Yuval Levin
A Time to Build: From Family and Community to Congress and the Campus, How Recommitting to Our Institutions Can Revive the American Dream
National Affairs
Spencer Klavan is associate editor of the Claremont Review of Books and The American Mind. As host of the increasingly popular Young Heretics podcast, he engages his audience with the wealth of wisdom found in the great works of Western culture, albeit with one caveat—identity politics are checked at the door. Spencer joins Jeremy to discuss cancel culture on campus and the consequences of universities surrendering their role in soulcraft. Spencer further touches on the concept of Damnatio memoriaeand its relation to recent events, and how citizens' realization that their power in society extends beyond mere voting may positively impact civil society. Send questions or comments to anchored@cltexam.com.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest Spencer Klavan @SpencerKlavan
Young Heretics podcast
Honor in a World Gone Mad
Dr. Angel Adams Parham is the Rev. Joseph H. Fichter Distinguished Professor of Social Science and Associate Professor of Sociology at Loyola University-New Orleans, where her work focuses on the comparative and historical sociology of race. In this episode, she talks with Jeremy about her dual role as a college professor and a Classical homeschooling parent. She also discusses the recent efforts by the group Decolonization at Brown to take down the statues of Marcus Aurelius and Caesar Augustus at the Ivy League university. She notes the importance of an approach to these types of events which puts the past into conversation with the present. To illustrate this point, she discusses the Stoic philosopher Epictetus and his connection to Toussaint Louverture, the leader of the Haitian Revolution. Send questions or comments to anchored@cltexam.com.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest Dr. Angel Adams Parham
The Statues Must Go: Brown Should Not Celebrate Colonialism
Why do students at Brown University want to tear down statues of Marcus Aurelius and Caesar Augustus? Italian journalist Alessandra Bocchi has reported from Hong Kong, Libya, and across Europe, and she is currently the Joseph Rago Memorial Fellow at The Wall Street Journal. She joins Jeremy to discuss her recent WSJ op-ed, "Ancient History Isn't Colonialism," in which she argues that the efforts of the group Decolonization at Brown miss the mark when it comes to the Western Tradition. She also discusses differences between the Italian and U.S. secondary school systems, and Jeremy reflects on CLT's mission to reinvigorate study of the Classics in U.S. schools. Send comments or questions to anchored@cltexam.com
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest Alessandra Bocchi @alessabocchi
Ancient History Isn't Colonialism
The Statues Must Go: Brown Should Not Celebrate Colonialism
Is there sufficient viewpoint diversity in K-12 education today? Daniel Buck is a teacher and freelance author who has written for such publications as National Review, City Journal, The American Mind, Quillette, and others. He joins Jeremy to discuss the questions that he began asking as a school teacher which led him to not only change his personal views on education, but also to advocate for a renewed national conversation concerning the proper aims of education. He further discusses the conversations that were facilitated when he began publicly addressing the "echo chamber" of education, and how this led to the founding of The Chalkboard Review, an online journal of educational commentary that features a diverse range of voices on all things education—left, right, and center. Send questions or comments to anchored@cltexam.com.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest Daniel Buck @MrDanielBuck
The Chalkboard Review
True Education is Beautiful—The American Mind, Claremont Institute
Dr. Anthony Bradley, professor of religious studies and director of the Center for the Study of Human Flourishing at The King’s College NYC, joins Jeremy to discuss the problem with overcriminalization and why criminal justice reforms have often proven difficult—he discusses the ways in which civic institutions can avert people's continued entry into the criminal justice system while also reducing recidivism rates. Additionally, Anthony explores the role of fatherhood and the research he has conducted that illustrates its role not only in positive social outcomes and academic development, but also within other categories that are not immediately apparent. Send questions or comments to anchored@cltexam.com.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest Dr. Anthony Bradley @drantbradley
Ending Overcriminalization and Mass Incarceration: Hope from Civil Society
Machiavelli and the merciless use of power is oftentimes used to illustrate Renaissance political philosophy. Dr. James Hankins, professor of history at Harvard University and one of the foremost authorities on Renaissance political thought, joins Jeremy to discuss how his book Virtue Politics challenges the common portrayal of Machiavelli as the exemplary thinker of the Renaissance. Dr. Hankins discusses the humanists' revival of the ancient view that politics are not sound unless individuals of the polity are morally sound, as well as the ways in which humanist thought indicated that the long-term resilience of institutions fundamentally relies on the virtuous character of those inhabiting the institutions. Dr. Hankins also shares his thoughts on classical education today, and shines light on the important teaching distinctions within the modern university. Send questions or comments to anchored@cltexam.com.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest Dr. James Hankins
Virtue Politics: Soulcraft and Statecraft in Renaissance Italy
The issue of free speech on campus has become an increasingly visible debate for higher education. Dr. Sigal Ben-Porath (University of Pennsylvania professor, fellow at Harvard's Edmond J. Safra Center for Ethics, and former chair of Penn's Committee on Open Expression) joins Jeremy to discuss what she has found to be the most common misconceptions concerning student views on free expression. While discussing the vital nature of free speech to colleges' mission, she outlines ways in which colleges can articulate a dual commitment to free speech and inclusivity, which may serve to ease campus tensions. The conversation also moves to the importance of returning to well-rounded civic education in the United States, as well as the ways in which the historical precedent of school choice—which pre-dates America's Founding—should reframe the discussion on this critical issue. Send any questions or comments to anchored@cltexam.com.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest Dr. Sigal Ben-Porath
Free Speech on Campus
Making Up Our Mind: What School Choice is Really About
Dr. Louis Markos, an authority on C. S. Lewis and a professor in English at Houston Baptist University, joins Jeremy Tate to discuss his new book The Myth Made Fact: Reading Greek and Roman Mythology through Christian Eyes. Dr. Markos discusses how a famous conversation between J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis inspired him to write a book which seeks to connect the wisdom of Greco-Roman mythology to Christian faith, thus informing a "ministry of myth." He also discusses the academy's current crisis of over-specialization in the humanities which has worn away at its heritage and inhibited the development of more public intellectuals.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest Dr. Louis Markos
The Myth Made Fact: Reading Greek and Roman Mythology through Christian Eyes
Andrew Zwerneman, president of Cana Academy, joins Jeremy Tate to discuss his new book History Forgotten and Remembered. Andrew discusses the reasons why society has grown out of the habit of thinking historically. He also touches on why thinking historically should involve the concept of living between "two great acts of giving"—that of being given the culture we inhabit, and the act of conveying what we cultivate today to future generations. He also discusses why a fragmentary approach to history (which retells history by viewing only egregious events in our past) is harmful to the study of history and ultimately to society.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest Andrew Zwerneman
Cana Academy
History Forgotten and Remembered
What does it mean to be happy? Is modern society only concerned with the superficial trappings of happiness? Dr. Jennifer Frey, professor of philosophy at the University of South Carolina and former collegiate professor in Humanities at the University of Chicago, joins Jeremy in a discussion on why the social sciences' attempts at quantifying happiness misses the mark, and the ways in which Plato and Aristotle's conceptions of human flourishing have much to offer the modern world. Dr. Frey also discusses the opportunities that are lost when education sidelines the fundamental questions of human existence in favor of strict skills development. She also touches on philosophy's role within a higher education system increasingly focused on vocational training.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest Dr. Jennifer Frey @jennfrey
Virtue, Happiness, and the Meaning of Life
Podcast: Sacred and Profane Love
As the daughter of immigrants and herself an Oxford student, Katharine Birbalsingh entered a program in which she encouraged inner-city students onto a path toward Oxford themselves. In that role, she found her love for teaching and was eventually asked to speak at the Conservative Party conference (where her speech gained more views than the UK's prime minister at the time). Her ideas on education received backlash, and she was forced to exit her teaching position. Today, she is the founder and headmistress of the Michaela Community School in London, an exceptionally successful free school (similar to a U.S. charter school) which is used as a model for schools around the world. In this episode, she discusses with Jeremy Tate why she stood up to promote academic values that run counter to identity politics in education. Ms. Birbalsingh was recently made Commander of the Order of the British Empire by the Queen for her services to education.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest Katharine Birbalsingh @Miss_Snuffy
Michaela Community School
Battle Hymn of the Tiger Teachers: The Michaela Way
The Power of Culture: The Michaela Way
E.D. Hirsch: The Schools We Need And Why We Don't Have Them
What underpins a worthwhile college education? This is the question that the What Will They Learn? College Rankings, published by the American Council of Trustees and Alumni (ACTA), seeks to answer. Dr. Michael Poliakoff, president of ACTA, joins Jeremy in a discussion on why a new college guide was needed: the failure of many colleges to provide a rigorous core curriculum, as well as the intellectual diversity needed for the free exchange of ideas. He also discusses the the ways in which campus speech regulation and self-censorship stand to harm liberal democracy. Send questions and comments to anchored@cltexam.com
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest Dr. Michael Poliakoff @PoliakoffACTA
ACTA's What Will They Learn? college rankings
Philadelphia Statement on Civil Discourse and Strengthening of Liberal Democracy
Anika Prather, professor in the Classics department at Howard University and founder of The Living Water School, joins Jeremy to discuss the journey that led her to become an advocate of classical education. Dr. Prather details her time at St. John's College and how that experience led her to shift her educational research focus to the history of classical education within the African-American community. She also describes the academic pushback which followed that decision and recounts the inspiration she gained from such seminal minds as W.E.B. Du Bois and Frederick Douglass. Send questions or comments to anchored@cltexam.com
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest Dr. Anika Prather @AnikaFreeindeed
Classic Learning in Black History Essay Series
Living in the Constellation of the Canon: The Lived Experiences of African-American Students Reading Great Books Literature
The Living Water School
New CLT Partner Colleges
Grove City College CLT Administration
Corey DeAngelis, Director of School Choice at the Reason Foundation, joins Jeremy to discuss the key issues at stake in the growing school choice movement. He provides insight into the pandemic's significance for the expansion of educational options while elaborating on the benefit of education dollars funding students over systems. He also discusses the incentive system at play in the current political debate on school choice. You won't want to miss his discussion on the School Choice Hypocrisy Map! Send questions or comments to anchored@cltexam.com
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest Dr. Corey DeAngelis @DeAngelisCorey
School Choice Myths: Setting the Record Straight on Education Freedom
Pennsylvania Must Fund Students, Not School Districts—Corey's Most Recent Op-Ed
EFI's School Choice Hypocrisy Map
Jessica Hooten Wilson, Louise Cowan Scholar in Residence at the University of Dallas, joins Jeremy to discuss cancel culture's impact on the influential author Flannery O'Connor (as well as on literature in general) and elaborates on her work in preparing O’Connor’s unfinished novel Why Do the Heathen Rage? for publication. Additionally, Prof. Hooten Wilson discusses challenges faced in the classroom, to include confronting students' "idol of use." Make sure to catch her personal book recommendations too! Send comments or questions about this episode to anchored@cltexam.com.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest Jessica Hooten Wilson @HootenWilson
How Flannery O'Connor Fought Racism in First Things—Hooten Wilson's response to The New Yorker article How Racist Was Flannery O'Connor?
Why Do the Heathen Rage?
Recently, The Princeton Review ranked the University of Dallas (UD) highly in its index of student happiness. President Thomas Hibbs joins Jeremy to discuss why UD students are among America’s happiest college students—and it has nothing to do with gourmet cafeterias or rock climbing walls. Dr. Hibbs also explores the implications of eroding trust in America’s institutions during a time of continued civil unrest and discusses the things colleges can do to counter continued social alienation, to include a renewed focus on the act of teaching. Send comments or questions about this episode to anchored@cltexam.com.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest President Thomas Hibbs @UofDallas
Princeton Review Rankings: Happiest Students
Princeton Review Rankings: Professors Get High Marks
Dr. Hibbs' Dallas Morning News Op-Ed: Isolated Angry, and Destructive—The America We Can't Have When We Emerge
Fun Fact! University of Dallas has its own Italian winery: Due Santi Wines
Influential scholar and Princeton University professor Robert P. George joins Jeremy for a discussion on the consequences of society’s abandonment of liberal arts education, the deeper streams of thought that informed the American Founding and what that means for building unity (to include discussion of the upcoming E Pluribus Unum lecture series jointly sponsored by AEI and the University of Dallas). He also provides an inside look at his famous friendship with Cornel West and how conversations on texts important to their intellectual journeys led to an enduring relationship that models civil discourse today.
Host Jeremy Tate @JeremyTate41
Guest Prof. Robert P. George @McCormickProf
E Pluribus Unum Lecture Series (AEI and University of Dallas)