Why Literature Still Matters with Dr. Jason Baxter

Why Literature Still Matters with Dr. Jason Baxter

Author: The St. Ambrose Center for Catholic Liberal Education & Culture at the University of Dallas April 6, 2026 Duration: 54:01
Summary In this conversation, Shannon Valenzuela and Jason Baxter explore the profound relationship between literature, beauty, and the human experience. Jason Baxter shares insights on how immersion in literary worlds fosters depth, prudence, and a sense of the divine, emphasizing the importance of literature and the arts in cultivating the soul and a deep sense of inwardness. Topics Covered: Art and literature and the communication of experienceThe importance of immersion and analysis for...

Conversations on The University of Dallas Classical Education Podcast explore the enduring questions and timeless methods at the heart of a rich intellectual tradition. Produced by The St. Ambrose Center for Catholic Liberal Education & Culture at the University of Dallas, each episode features dialogues with professors, experienced K-12 teachers, and other thoughtful voices actively shaping this educational landscape. These discussions move beyond abstract theory, offering practical wisdom and deep insight applicable in both classroom and home settings. You’ll hear from educators translating classical ideals into daily practice, parents considering this path for their families, and scholars examining its philosophical foundations. The aim is to foster a community of learning where seasoned practitioners and curious newcomers alike can find substance and inspiration. Tuning into this podcast means engaging with a living tradition, one that emphasizes the cultivation of wisdom and virtue through the liberal arts. Each conversation is an invitation to reflect on what it means to educate the whole person in our contemporary world, providing listeners with a deeper appreciation for an approach that forms not only skilled minds but thoughtful, responsible individuals.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 15

The University of Dallas Classical Education Podcast
Podcast Episodes
Building Classical School Communities with Dr. Robert Jackson [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 54:36
Summary In this conversation, Shannon Valenzuela and Robert Jackson explore the principles and practices of classical education, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, collaboration, and the role of experience in the…
Tracing the Sky with Joseph Tabenkin [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 56:11
Summary In this conversation, Shannon Valenzuela and Joseph Tabenkin explore the intersection of classical education and modern learning tools, particularly in the realm of astronomy. They discuss the importance of maint…
A Brief Quadrivium with Dr. Peter Ulrickson [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:14
Summary In this episode, Shannon Valenzuela and Peter Ulrickson explore the significance of the Quadrivium in education and Dr. Ulrickson's unique presentation of teaching these arts in his books A Brief Quadrivium and t…
Another Sort of Mathematics with Jake Tawney [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 52:16
Summary In this episode, Shannon Valenzuela and Jake Tawney explore the significance of the quadrivium in education, particularly focusing on mathematics as a bridge between the material and the divine and the ability of…
The Quadrivium in the Middle School with Dr. Merrill Roberts [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:58
Summary In this episode, Shannon Valenzuela and Dr. Merrill Roberts explore the beauty of the quadrivium for the middle school classroom. They discuss the integration of nature studies, mathematics, and science in middle…
From Wonder to Mastery: Science Education with John D. Mays [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 56:03
Summary In this conversation, Shannon Valenzuela and John Mays explore the principles of teaching science classically. They discuss the importance of beauty to the work of education, the importance of textbook design, an…
Exploring Art and Beauty with Robert Puschautz and Annie Johnson [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 41:34
Summary In this conversation, Shannon Valenzuela, Robert Puschautz, and AnneMarie Johnson explore the profound role of art in education, emphasizing its ability to connect beauty with truth and goodness. They discuss the…
Experiencing Dante's Divine Comedy with Dr. Joe Carlson [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 54:37
Summary In this conversation, Shannon Valenzuela interviews Dr. Joe Carlson, a University of Dallas alumnus and translator of Dante Alighieri's Divine Comedy. They discuss his journey into the world of Dante, focusing on…
Thoroughness and Charm: Classroom Management with Mandi Gerth [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 49:18
Summary In this conversation, Shannon Valenzuela interviews Mandi Gerth, the author of the new book Thoroughness & Charm: Cultivating the Habits of a Classical Classroom. They explore the principles of classical educatio…