In this powerful episode of the Allegedly Higher Podcast, Dr. Candice Love Jackson and Dr. Erin Wheeler tackle the urgent issues shaping higher education and society.

We dive deep into:

• Why emotional connection and student wellbeing are the missing keys to student success.

• • How traditional education alienates students and why a paradigm shift is needed in teaching, assessment, and the first-year experience.
  • Special Guest: Dr. Anane Olatunji – Author of Don’t Let School Get in the Way of Education, education expert, and creator of the FACES Framework (Fun, Affirmation, Challenge, Expression, Success) for reimagining student performance and wellbeing.

• • The critical role of real-world applications, critical thinking, and communication skills in preparing students for a complex world.

  • How pop culture and hip hop icons reflect broader societal issues, from Cardi B’s latest headlines to Dame Dash’s return.

  • The fallout of political rhetoric, campus protests, and accreditation challenges, and what it means for university policies and public perception.

  • Why mental health, both for students and public figures, must be prioritized as part of true education reform.

  Through honest conversation, reflection, and cultural commentary, the hosts connect politics, education, and pop culture to highlight the changes needed to create safe, engaging, and human-centered educational spaces.

  👉 Keywords: higher education, emotional connection, student wellbeing, first year experience, assessment, engagement, paradigm shift, pop culture, education reform, politics, mental health, hip hop, social issues, critical thinking, student preparedness, public perception, university policies

  
  

  Show Resources:

  
  

  Buy Dr. Anane Olatunji's Book:

  Don't Let School Get In the Way of Education: https://www.amazon.com/Dont-Let-School-Get-Education/dp/1632999617

  
  

  Book Dr. O for speaking engagements: https://www.droinspires.com/

  
  

  Please email us at info@holistichigheredsolutions.com to buy bulk copies of Geaux Wiser and schedule professional development trainings.