In this episode, we sit down with Provost Lena Hill, whose vision and leadership maintain the best of the liberal arts education at Washington and Lee. For Hill, education is not only about mastery of a discipline but also about discovery, openness, and the courage to embrace the unexpected. She reflects on her own journey, from studying Renaissance art in Florence to becoming an internationally recognized scholar of Ralph Ellison, and how those formative experiences shape the way she thinks about curriculum, faculty, and students today. From the evolving role of general education to the transformative impact of study abroad, research, and mentoring, Hill shares how W&L empowers students to unlock their potential and pursue lives of meaning. Whether you’re an alum curious about the university’s future, a student navigating your own path, or a lifelong learner seeking inspiration, this conversation offers a thoughtful reminder that education is both an opportunity and a gift.

In this episode, we sit down with James Lambert, whose career and curiosity embody Washington and Lee’s mission of lifelong learning. For Lambert, the pursuit of knowledge is inseparable from the pursuit of beauty, a source of joy, wisdom, and renewal that transcends the daily grind. He reflects on how learning opens us to wonder, sustains our sense of purpose, and helps us see the extraordinary in the ordinary. From moments of quiet discovery to the transformative power of art, ideas, and conversation, Lambert shares how cultivating beauty has shaped his life and work. Whether you’re navigating a busy career, searching for inspiration, or simply curious about how to live more fully, this conversation offers a reminder that learning is not just a skill, it’s a lifelong art.

In this episode, we talk with Stu Gray, associate professor of politics at Washington and Lee University, whose winding journey from West Point to political theory is a story of risk, reflection and relentless curiosity. Gray shares how his fascination with both Western and Eastern traditions reshaped his understanding of identity, meaning and what it truly means to live a good life. We explore the philosophy behind his popular courses, including one inspired by “Black Mirror,” and how he invites students to unplug, look inward and critically examine the role technology plays in shaping modern identity. From the allure of “becoming” over “being” to the quiet power of awe, this conversation delves into questions that linger long after the classroom. Whether you're interested in politics, philosophy or simply navigating a digital world more mindfully, this episode will leave you thinking deeply and seeing differently.

In this episode, Will Dudley, Washington and Lee University president and philosophy professor, shares how a lifelong love of asking questions shaped his path from an aspiring mathematician to a college president. As an educator at heart, President Dudley elects to teach one philosophy course a year, which explores the university’s mission statement. He talks of how remaining in the classroom grounds him and positively influences his role as president as he invites discussions on honor, integrity and civil discourse. From the value of freedom of expression to the joy of fly-fishing with students, our conversation invites you to reflect on the enduring impact of a liberal arts education and how to keep your mind an interesting place to live.

In this episode, we talk with Jay Margalus, Johnson Professor of Entrepreneurship and Leadership and Director of the Connolly Center for Entrepreneurship at W&L. Margalus shares his unconventional path from law to software to academia, and why he believes embracing risk is essential, not just for entrepreneurs, but for anyone seeking a meaningful life. We explore how he's helping students unlearn rigid, test-driven thinking and rediscover creativity through play, uncertainty, and real-world experimentation. From the philosophy behind W&L’s entrepreneurship programs to the hands-on work happening at the Connolly Center, this episode is packed with insight into what it means to take smart risks, build boldly, and avoid the quiet danger of regret. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, educator, or just rethinking your next move, this conversation will inspire you to take the leap.

In this episode, we talk with Beth Staples, editor of Shenandoah Literary magazine and assistant professor of English. Staples discusses storytelling, the legacy of Shenandoah, the exciting changes she's bringing to the magazine and what it means for W&L students. We dive into the magazine's history, its editorial process and how Staples is shaping the future with programs including the innovative Fellowship Program and the for-credit internship experience. Whether you're a Shenandoah fan or new to literary magazines, this episode is packed with insight into the art of storytelling and the future of publishing.

In this episode, Matthew Loar, Director of Fellowships and Student Research at Washington and Lee University, shares his path from studying abroad in Rome to shaping the futures of current W&L students. He talks about how fellowships are transforming undergraduate experiences and why he is so passionate about the application process itself. We discuss Matthew’s work with programs such as Summer Research Scholars and Science, Society, and the Arts, and discuss how we at Lifelong Learning plan to introduce elements of these initiatives to our Lifelong Learning audience.

In this episode, Holly Pickett, professor of English at Washington and Lee University, shares her experience with Shakespeare, from an unconvinced high school student to an early modern drama scholar, and discusses the transformative power of teaching on the playwright. She encourages her students to not just read the text, but to experience it – and talks of ways to bring Shakespeare “to its feet.” With her own research extending beyond the English department and into subjects of history and modern TV, she delves into the enduring value of humanities in an ever-changing world and reflects on how studying Shakespeare can offer insights into the core questions of what makes all of us human.