Why Education Must Change Now! Billionaire, Robert F. Smith Explains.

Robert F. Smith is the founder, chairman, and CEO of Vista Equity Partners and one of the most influential investors and philanthropists in technology and education today.Dr. Monique Guillory is an educator, cultural scholar, and university president known for her leadership in higher education and her work at the intersection of Black studies, innovation, and institutional transformation.This wide-ranging conversation brings together history, technology, education, and moral leadership to confront a single reality: the world is changing faster than our institutions are willing to admit. Robert Smith—in conversation with the President of Dillard University, Dr. Monique Guillory—reflects on the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., emphasizing that economic justice—not just civil rights—was always central to King’s vision, and that younger generations are still willing to put their bodies on the line when injustice is clear.From there, the discussion pivots to the present and future, where artificial intelligence and software are rapidly reshaping labor, wealth, and opportunity. Smith argues that higher education—especially HBCUs—faces an existential crisis if it does not radically rethink how it prepares students for an economy driven by AI, automation, and data. The old promise of “get a degree, get a job” no longer holds.Drawing from his own journey—leaving a prestigious career to take calculated risks—Smith makes the case that understanding systems, capital, and arbitrage is now essential for survival. The core message is both urgent and hopeful: those who learn how the new economy works, lean into innovation, and act boldly can shape the future rather than be erased by it. Sitting still, he warns, is the greatest risk of all.Order Robert F. Smith Book Here: https://bookshop.org/a/20190/9781400244102Order Baldwin & Co. Merch Here: https://shop.baldwinandcobooks.comLearn more about Baldwin & Co. Foundation: https://bcofoundation.orgThis podcast is your front-row seat to the world of books, ideas, and thought-provoking conversations with some of the most brilliant minds and celebrated authors of our time.At Baldwin & Co., we believe that stories have the power to inspire, connect, and transform. Through this podcast, we bring the pages of bestselling novels, memoirs, and groundbreaking works of nonfiction to life. Whether you’re an avid reader, aspiring writer, or simply someone who enjoys meaningful discussions, Baldwin & Co. Author Dialogues is here to ignite your curiosity and enrich your understanding of the world.What to Expect:Author Talks and Exclusive InterviewsJoin us as we sit down with internationally acclaimed authors, rising literary stars, and thought leaders across genres. Discover the stories behind the stories—their creative processes, challenges, and inspirations—and gain insights into the craft of writing.Spotlight on Book EventsThe Baldwin & Co. Author Dialogues goes behind the scenes of our renowned book events and signings, giving you an intimate glimpse into conversations that define literary culture.#LeadBoldly #FutureOfWork #AIRevolution #EducationReimagined #EconomicJustice #MLKLegacy #HBCUs #HigherEducationCrisis #ArtificialIntelligence #TechAndSociety #HumanCenteredWork #CapitalAndLabor #RiskAndInnovation #NextIndustrialRevolution #DigitalTransformation #EquityAndOpportunity #GenerationalChange #BlackInnovation #CommunityLeadership #SystemicChange #RobertSmith #RobertFSmith #billionaire #richestmanintheworld #richestblack