In this episode of Higher Ed Happy Place, host Kris McPeak addresses the audience with an apology for not maintaining the podcast as intended. McPeak, with over 30 years of experience in higher education, reflects on the changes in the sector, particularly the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the shift towards technology and remote work. Although still passionate about higher education, McPeak expresses disillusionment with current trends and the feeling of loss of faith in the system. The episode announces a shift in the podcast's direction, aiming to discuss and critique issues in modern college campuses, while seeking solutions. This change includes plans for a new show concept, format, and possibly a new title, signaling an intent to address the 'atrocities of our times' in higher education. This is billed as the last episode under the 'Higher Ed Happy Place' title.

 

00:00 Welcome Back & An Apology

00:21 A Journey Through Higher Education

00:56 Questioning the Passion for Higher Ed

02:10 The Changing Landscape of Higher Education

02:40 The Impact of COVID-19 on Education

03:29 Personal Reflections and Future Directions

04:18 A New Vision for the Podcast

06:16 Signing Off and Looking Forward