Critical Minds in Critical Times: Teaching Higher Ed in Today's Political Climate with Dr. Kris Marsh

 In this lively conversation, host K. Wilkes speaks with Dr. Kris Marsh as she dives into the challenges and rewards of teaching in today’s politically charged higher education landscape. She reflects on the importance of critical thinking and authentic student engagement, drawing from her popular Boondocks class and highlighting the power of contemporary culture—like Kendrick Lamar’s music—to connect with students. Dr. Marsh also explores Black joy as a revolutionary act, shares her strategies for self-care, and discusses the evolving nature of teaching, encouraging educators to adapt their methods to truly meet students where they are. By the end, listeners will see that teaching is not just about imparting knowledge—it’s about shaping minds and nurturing resilience in every classroom. Chapters02:00Introduction and Welcome Back04:29Teaching in a Changing Political Climate05:34Adapting Teaching Methods for Critical Thinking11:53The Boondocks Class: Engaging Students Through Media17:00Disrupting Myths: Conversations on Race and Fatherhood22:05Student Demographics and Class Dynamics25:18Navigating Censorship in Education28:12The Future of the Boondocks Class29:40Exploring Sociology Through Pop Culture34:19The Evolution of Teaching Methods40:17Ethnography and the Kendrick Lamar Experience48:22Reflections on Race and Music50:17Exploring Black Joy52:50The Intersection of Black Joy and Research55:54Rest as Resistance57:23Self-Care and Joy in Academia01:06Reflections on Teaching in Today's ClimateGuest Infohttps://drkrismarsh.com/Like what you heard?  Share with others and follow us @ponderingthoughtspodcast Instagram