In this episode of Together: A Higher-Ed Podcast, Harvard professor and bestselling author Dr. Arthur Brooks explores meaning, belonging, flourishing, and leadership in today’s university culture.

Arthur Brooks shares his remarkable journey from classical musician to internationally recognized social scientist, reflecting on how purpose and belonging have shaped his path and research. He examines the rising challenges of student anxiety, campus polarization, and the neuroscience of happiness and meaning.

The conversation dives into practical strategies for higher education leaders and students alike: how to reframe struggle as purposeful, strengthen community, and amplify the “light triad” of empathy, humility, and care in an age of division.

The Atlantic article "The Sociopaths Among Us—And How to Avoid Them" by Arthur C. Brooks:
https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2023/10/dark-triads-toxic-personalities/675683/

#ArthurBrooks #HigherEd #Belonging #Meaning #HigherEdLeadership #flourishing

In this episode of Together: A Higher-Ed Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Chris Hulleman, Professor of Education at the University of Virginia and Director of the Motivate Lab.

Dr. Hulleman shares his unique journey from being a college football player and social worker to a nationally recognized motivation science expert. He talks about how combining the instincts of excellent teaching with research on learning and motivation can help students thrive.

The conversation explores big-picture challenges in higher ed, the importance of student voice, and what it means to lead with humility and purpose.

We also share some exciting news: the University of Utah and Motivate Lab are launching a new partnership to support student success.

Learn more about the Office of Undergraduate Studies: https://us.utah.edu

In this episode of Together: A Higher-Ed Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Jason Taylor, Associate Professor in the College of Education and Assistant Dean for Transfer Student Success at the University of Utah. Jason shares his journey from being a first-generation student and music major to becoming a national scholar in transfer policy and community colleges.

He dives deep into how personal mentorship, public policy, and systems-level thinking shaped his path—and how the University of Utah is transforming transfer student success through curricular alignment, inclusive programming, and community partnerships.

This conversation is a must-listen for anyone passionate about access, equity, and how listening to students can drive lasting change.

Learn more about the Office of Undergraduate Studies: https://us.utah.edu

#TransferSuccess #CommunityColleges #FirstGen #HigherEdPolicy #TogetherPodcast