The Rant Podcast

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Prepare to unlock the future of higher education as we sit down with Dr. Michael Crow, President of Arizona State University, at the 14th ASU+GSV Summit. Discover how pioneering technologies, especially artificial intelligence, are revolutionizing the learning landscape. With two decades at the helm of ASU, Dr. Crow shares his insights on democratizing education and using tech to expand classroom boundaries. Whether you're an educator, student, or tech enthusiast, this conversation is packed with transformative ideas and forward-thinking strategies.
Ever wondered why our higher education system feels out of sync with today's needs? We tackle the systemic barriers stifling creativity and innovation within academia. Dr. Crow debunks the myth that innovation is a solo act, highlighting the critical role of collaboration. We challenge the entrenched elitism in American higher education and advocate for diverse institutions that prioritize learner outcomes over inputs. If you’re passionate about education reform, this segment offers a thought-provoking critique and vision for inclusive, impactful change.
Finally, we journey through history to draw lessons that can shape the future of learning. From the resilience of figures like Frederick Douglass to the educational power of YouTube, we explore unconventional pathways to knowledge. Dr. Crow discusses how informal learning platforms can be structured into formal educational systems, sharing personal stories that underscore the practical applications of these resources. Tune in to understand how historical perspectives and modern technology can converge to create a robust, adaptive, and inclusive educational framework.
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Republican political consultant Mike Madrid joins host Eloy Ortiz-Oakley to examine the seismic shifts occurring in American democracy through the unique lens of Latino voter behavior. As co-founder of the Lincoln Project and author of "The Latino Century," Madrid brings data-driven insights that challenge conventional wisdom about minority voting patterns. The conversation delves deep into how Latino voters—now America's largest minority voting bloc—are transforming the political landscape. Madrid reveals compelling evidence that Latinos aren't becoming more conservative but more populist, rejecting both major parties at unprecedented rates. "The Republican Party is winning Latino votes despite their best efforts, not because of them," Madrid explains, detailing how economic concerns consistently outweigh identity politics for this diverse demographic. His analysis of multi-generational shifts within Latino communities offers a fascinating window into America's changing electorate. The discussion takes a particularly thought-provoking turn when examining higher education's precarious position in today's populist moment. Madrid argues that colleges and universities have become deeply vulnerable by institutionalizing ideological frameworks without demonstrating clear economic returns. "The cash-on-cash return on investment of higher education in the digital age isn't really bearing out," he notes, explaining how the college degree has become America's most significant political dividing line—more so than income or geography. Madrid's insights offer essential guidance for higher education leaders navigating these turbulent times. He challenges institutions to strip down to fundamentals and rebuild for a digital age where information flows horizontally rather than through traditional hierarchies. For anyone seeking to understand the forces reshaping American democracy and higher education's place within it, this episode provides illuminating perspectives that transcend conventional political categories.

https://www.amazon.com/Latino-Century-Americas-Transforming-Democracy/dp/1668015269

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The drumbeat against higher education continues to grow louder. In this revealing conversation with Janet Napolitano—former Arizona Governor, Secretary of Homeland Security under President Obama, and President of the University of California—we explore the existential threats facing America's great research universities.
Janet pulls no punches when discussing the political headwinds threatening higher education. With potential cuts that could strip "billions of dollars" from research universities like UC, we're witnessing what she describes as "eating our seed corn"—jeopardizing the very innovation pipeline that has powered America's global leadership. Graduate students, who become tomorrow's researchers and innovators, are already feeling the impact as professors hesitate to hire them amid funding uncertainty.
Equally concerning is the assault on First Amendment rights on campus. While Janet clearly disagrees with many of the protest positions on issues like Gaza, she warns that universities have historically been strongholds of free speech—and current efforts to punish institutions and students for protected expression marks a dangerous shift in American values.
Perhaps most illuminating is Janet's description of public universities as "the secret sauce for how the United States has become the top performing economy in the world." This isn't just rhetoric—it's backed by decades of evidence showing how accessible higher education creates social mobility and economic prosperity. Yet this story isn't reaching enough Americans, as costs rise and communication failures allow stereotypes to flourish.
For those feeling overwhelmed by today's political polarization, Janet offers practical wisdom: limit social media consumption, contact your representatives, and organize around issues you care about. "Democracy takes work," she reminds us. "You can't just be a passive recipient of democracy." In these challenging times for higher education and democratic institutions alike, her experienced voice provides both warning and hope.

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When higher education comes under attack, who stands up to defend its core mission? In this compelling conversation, Chancellor John King of the State University of New York brings his unique perspective as a former high school teacher, Secretary of Education under President Obama, and leader of a major education advocacy organization to address the most pressing challenges facing American universities today. Chancellor King doesn't mince words as he articulates how SUNY maintains its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion despite political headwinds: "For us, diversity, equity, inclusion is in our DNA." He shares concrete examples of how SUNY serves 370,000 degree-seeking students while ensuring campuses remain places of belonging for everyone, regardless of background. The conversation takes a sobering turn when discussing research funding cuts threatened by the current administration. "It's a disaster for the country," King explains, detailing how the proposed $79 million reduction in NIH funding alone would devastate critical research on cancer treatments, Alzheimer's, and 9/11 first responder care. "Our international competitors are laughing at us," he notes, calling this a "willful dismantling of our competitive advantage. "Drawing on his experience as Education Secretary, King provides a masterful breakdown of the Department of Education's four essential functions – from supporting vulnerable students to protecting civil rights – and why dismantling it would harm America's future. He outlines potential areas for bipartisan progress, including thoughtfully designed short-term credential programs and renewed investment in research that could usher in "a golden age" of scientific advancement. For anyone concerned about the future of American higher education, this conversation reveals both the gravity of current threats and a path forward rooted in demonstrating value and serving communities. As Chancellor King advises emerging leaders, we must be "obsessed with demonstrating value" – both economic and civic – while building strong peer networks to navigate these challenging times.

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What if the challenges plaguing the edtech sector are actually opportunities in disguise? Join us as we welcome Phil Hill, the publisher of the On EdTech newsletter, who offers a wealth of insights into the complexities of the education technology landscape. Together, we tackle the financial struggles of major players like 2U and Anthology while uncovering the potential for stabilization and growth. Phil also sheds light on the groundbreaking role of generative AI in education, discussing the lessons gleaned from the LA Unified School District's AI tutor initiative.
The discussion takes a turn into the nuanced realm of education policy, where intense polarization has shaped the U.S. Department of Education's decision-making processes. From the influence of organizations like the Heritage Foundation to the efforts of the Bipartisan Policy Center, we explore strategies for finding common ground. Phil highlights the importance of Congress in shaping policy and shares thoughts on how bipartisan cooperation can focus on shared goals like school accountability and economic mobility, paving the way for progress in a divided climate.
As Linda McMahon prepares to step into her role at the Department of Education, we examine the strategic signals that could define her tenure. From potential appointments to regulatory shifts, we explore how changes could impact everything from online education to vocational training. Phil offers astute advice for higher education leaders, emphasizing the need for institutions to evolve structurally to meet the demands of modern learners and overcome financial hurdles. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that unpacks the trends and challenges shaping the future of education.

https://onedtech.philhillaa.com/

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