In this episode, we welcome back a familiar voice from our very first season—Dr. Dale Wesson. Known for his insightful and candid perspectives, Dr. Wesson joins us for a thought-provoking (and perhaps a bit controversial) discussion on the coveted R-1 designation in higher education.

Drawing from his recent opinion piece in Inside Higher Ed, Dr. Wesson unpacks the implications of the updated criteria for the Carnegie Classification and what “R-1” should truly signify for colleges and universities. We explore how this redefinition could reshape institutional priorities, impact funding and prestige, and influence the broader mission of higher education.

Whether you’re in academia, policy, or simply curious about how these classifications drive competition and change, this conversation challenges assumptions and invites you to think critically about the future of research universities