In this conversation with EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner, Dr. Holden Thorp discusses the evolving role of provosts in higher education, emphasizing the importance of academic leadership amidst political pressures. He reflects on the challenges faced by academic leaders, the significance of academic freedom, and the need for a renewed focus on undergraduate education. Thorp shares insights from his experiences and highlights the necessity for provosts to navigate complex political landscapes while advocating for academic values. In this conversation, Thorp and Thuswaldner discuss the pressing issues facing higher education today, emphasizing the need for universities to prioritize teaching and student engagement over research and administrative concerns. They explore the disconnect between public perception and institutional priorities, the importance of open communication to rebuild trust, and the necessity of fostering a culture of respectful disagreement among students and faculty. Thorp shares insights from his experiences as a provost and highlights the challenges of aligning university values with public expectations.Takeaways• Provosts must balance political pressures with academic integrity.• Academic freedom is essential for a thriving educational environment.• Leadership in higher education requires understanding faculty dynamics.• Provosts should be proactive in advocating for undergraduate education.• Navigating political landscapes is a key challenge for academic leaders.