In this episode of Lives of the Carroll Saints, host Alex Coulter, Carroll College admission counselor, alumnus, and former student athlete, sits down with Dr. Ed Glowienka, professor of philosophy, to explore the role of big questions in a Carroll education. Dr. Glowienka reflects on his path from biochemistry to philosophy, his journey to Helena, and the ways a Catholic liberal arts tradition creates space for students to wrestle with truth, meaning, and purpose.
Together they discuss the distinctive culture of Carroll, where disciplines intersect, community shapes learning, and students are encouraged to pursue both intellectual rigor and personal growth. Dr. Glowienka shares how philosophy provides a “gift of an interval” for reflection, why open dialogue matters more than ever, and how small classroom moments can have lasting impact. Their conversation also touches on mentorship, softball weekend traditions, and what it means to live out the Carroll mission by building others up and carrying that spirit into the world.