James Traub
Journalist, educator, and author of The Cradle of Citizenship: How Schools Can Help Save Our Democracy, who spent a year visiting public schools to study civic education and shares five key themes from his reporting.
Best podcasts with James Traub
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11 snips
Jan 22, 2026 • 30min
We’re Teaching American History All Wrong
James Traub, a journalist and educator, discusses his year-long investigation into American civic education, revealing students' alarming lack of knowledge about key historical texts and polarized narratives. He highlights promising programs that effectively engage students and the need for a rigorous liberal arts approach. Alexandra Robbins, an investigative journalist, addresses teacher burnout, emphasizing it's a symptom of systemic issues like low pay and overwhelming responsibilities rather than a shortage of dedicated educators. Both guests present insightful solutions for a better educational future.
Jan 9, 2026 • 36min
Old School Principles for the New Century: What if the Right isn't Wrong about Education?
James Traub, a journalist and author focused on democracy and education, shares insights from his extensive visits to American high schools. He questions traditional narratives, asserting that schools can strengthen democracy through critical thinking, rather than moral dogma. Traub advocates for a return to classical education, emphasizing deep texts over screens and identity politics. He discusses the challenges of nationalism against liberal values and the importance of teaching civic memory to prepare students for thoughtful engagement in contemporary politics.
