Anchored by the Classic Learning Test

This episode brings together three of the most influential public intellectuals of our time for a rare, honest conversation about truth, disagreement, and unity in a polarized age. Father Robert Sirico moderates a powerful dialogue between Dr. Cornel West and Professor Robert P. George as they discuss their co‑authored book, Truth Matters: A Dialogue on Fruitful Disagreement in an Age of Division.Episode descriptionCan people who profoundly disagree still be friends—and work together for the common good? In this special panel discussion, Father Sirico hosts Cornel West and Robert P. George to explore how to seek truth, argue with integrity, and practice real civility without watering down conviction. They share personal stories, hard‑won wisdom, and practical principles for disagreement that is honest, charitable, and fruitful.Listeners will hear them wrestle with:Why truth matters more than tribalism or party loyaltyHow to argue in good faith without demonizing opponentsThe role of faith, conscience, and moral courage in public lifeWhether you are a student, educator, pastor, or concerned citizen, this conversation offers a hopeful model for how to think deeply, disagree strongly, and still recognize the dignity of those on the “other side.”

In this episode of the Anchored Podcast by Classic Learning Test, Jeremy Wayne Tate sits down with 98‑year‑old Blouke Carus to share an unforgettable story of childhood under Nazi Germany, escape to the United States, and a life shaped by liberal arts education. Carus reflects on what it was like to grow up under totalitarianism, the moment his family fled, and how coming back to America formed his understanding of freedom, responsibility, and the human person.​Drawing on decades as a leader in publishing and education, Carus explains why studying the great books, history, and philosophy gave him resilience, moral clarity, and a sense of purpose that ideology could never supply. This conversation is ideal for students, parents, teachers, and school leaders seeking an alternative to purely technocratic education and looking to recover a deeply human vision of learning.​Listeners will hear about:Life as a child in Nazi Germany and the dangers of propaganda and dehumanizationHis escape back to the United States and the gratitude that shaped his vocationHow a liberal arts education informed his career, leadership, and family lifeWhy reading the great books is essential for forming free and virtuous citizens todayIf you care about classical education, the future of American schools, or how to form the next generation against totalitarian thinking, this episode is for you.

Today Jeremy is joined by Susan Morrow, PhD, who obtained her Doctor of Philosophy in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center.  Susan describes her unique childhood growing up in a funeral parlor, her educational journey as well as moral conflicts she experienced as a professional scientist, and her ultimate decision to devote herself full time to raising her family.

On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Shannon Johnston, Assistant Professor of Art and Director of the Pathmaker program at Newman University. They discuss how Pathmaker is reimagining higher education by offering students the opportunity to earn a bachelor’s degree in just three years through an innovative, project-based learning model that emphasizes mentorship and individualized learning experiences. They also reflect on the growing influence of AI in both art and education, while emphasizing that human creativity remains irreplaceable.

On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Chad Pecknold, Associate Professor of Theology at the Catholic University and author of Fire on the Altar: Setting Our Souls Ablaze through Augustine’s Confessions. They discuss St. Augustine as offering the structural blueprint for Western civilization and Christianity as the religious DNA embedded within it. They also dive into the term Christian nationalism and the strong, cultural desire to return to public Christianity. stpaulcenter.co/fireonthealtarInstagram: @stpaulcenter and @emmausroadpublishingX: @ccpecknold

On this episode of the Anchored Podcast, Soren is joined by Semi Park, founding Headmaster of Orange County Classical Academy. She discusses her experiences serving underserved schools, her transition to classical education, and the founding of OCCA amidst significant challenges and opposition. They emphasize the importance of mission-driven education, the role of parents, and the need for diversity in thought over mere representation. She also addresses the current challenges facing classical education in California.

On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Michael Bileca, founder of True North, a network of classical charter schools in Florida. They discuss his time working for the Florida state legislature, including some of the education reform policies he enacted. They explore how his work in state politics convinced him to go beyond policy and start a school. They conclude by diving into the story of introducing the CLT to Florida and sharing statistics on its growth over the past few years.

In this episode of the Anchored Podcast, Jeremy is joined by Tim Feist, founder of Feist Stone. They discuss his experience at the Naval Academy as a midshipman and professor, his passion for history, and the moment that led him to begin stone carving. They explore the significance of stone carving as both an art form and a spiritual discipline, and the importance of stone carving in the ancient world. They also reflect on the role of education in fostering creativity and craftsmanship, and the impact of art on education.

On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Joseph Magaña, Vice President of Policy and Advocacy at EdChoice and Leslie Hiner, Vice President of Legal Policy at EdChoice, leading their Legal Policy and Education Center. They unpack educational savings accounts, and the importance of parental accountability in the school choice movement. They talk about the Friedman Index as a resource that allows families to assess where and how school choice is best accommodated across the United States. They also explore homeschool families’ perspectives and concerns regarding school choice. 

On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Dr. Kent Lasnoski, President of San Damiano College for the Trades, a new Catholic trades college in Illinois. Dr. Lasnoski shares his journey from professor and dean at Wyoming Catholic College to founding a Catholic Trade School. They discuss the importance of integrating intellectual and practical skills in education, the impact of AI on the trades, and the significance of fostering a community and entrepreneurial mindset among students. Dr. Lasnoski also describes the unique educational model at San Damiano, which prepares students for a fulfilling life in both mind and the trades.