Enlighten Me

Enlighten Me

Education is more than the accumulation of knowledge. It’s the growth we experience when digging deep into the topics, systems, and ways of thinking that give flavor to life. Enlighten Me is dedicated to bringing listeners into the world of the unknown and providing meaningful insights into issues that affect us all. In each episode, we bring in researchers and experts from a wide range of fields to discuss a topic and how it relates to their industry. Part of the TXST Podcast Network: https://www.txst.edu/podcast-network.html

Women in Sports

Across pro and college sports in America, women’s sports and athletes are enjoying a bigger spotlight than ever before. Is it just a trendy culture moment or is the playing field finally starting to level out? On this episode of Enlighten Me, we look at the past, present and future of women in sports on the field, in media and behind the scenes. 

03-26
50:07

Dating in the Digital Age

Are we swiping toward love or just doomscrolling for a glimpse of romance? Listen to our latest episode of Enlighten Me, where we talk with #TXST faculty member Jessica James about the realities of dating apps

02-20
41:19

AI at TXST: From Research to Reality

Discover how artificial intelligence is being studied and embraced at Texas State. In this episode, we dive deep with university faculty and staff to explore AI research, how it's being used across the university, and how it's shaping the future of education and the Bobcat community.

11-19
36:11

Yes, Your Vote Matters

Before you go to the polls in November, join us on Enlighten Me for a look how voting become the center of citizen participation in government. We’re looking at the roots of voting in America, how has voting changed since the Founders’ generation? How does voting work in other countries? And most importantly, does your single vote really matter? (It absolutely does!) With Paul Hart, Director of the Center for International Studies and Michael Faber, Associate Professor,  Department of Political Science.

09-24
43:55

Food + Identity

Your relationship to food can reflect your values, celebrate your community, or even broadcast your worldview. This month, Enlighten Me explores how what we put on our plate can be an insight into what’s in our soul. Interviews with Dr. Deborah Harris (Professor, Sociology), Dr. Lauren Butler (Assistant Professor, School of Family & Consumer Sciences) and Lindsey Menge (Senior Lecturer, School of Family & Consumer Science).

07-30
47:30

The Soundscape of Texas & Beyond

What is Texas music and how does it affect local and national culture? Dr. Joseph Kotarba discusses music experiences across the life course, Dr. Kevin Mooney talks music and identity, and Jason Mellard the importance of Texas music history. Listen to the songs mentioned, plus more Texas Music here!

06-25
52:54

Then, Now & NEXT

On the next episode of Enlighten Me, we’re delving into the past, present, and future of Texas State to celebrate our 125th anniversary with Texas State Librarian Margaret Vaverek, TXST Chief Research Officer Shreek Mandayam, and Texas State President Kelly Damphousse. We’re retracing how we’ve grown and adapted to meet the changing needs of Texas through the decades and looking forward to see how Texas State is working today to shape our tomorrow. Explore more TXST history at https://125.txst.edu/

05-28
43:21

Deep in the Heart of Texas: Investigating Teacher Turnover

We delve into the pressing issue of teacher turnover in Texas. Hear from educators and researchers on the front lines as they explore potential solutions to this critical challenge facing education in the Lone Star State. We converse with TXST's Dr. Millie Cordaro, Dr. Priscilla Goble, and Dr. Michael O'Malley.

04-30
01:01:13

Earth Day, Conservation at TXST, and the Easter Bunny - Special Mini-Episode

In this episode, we discuss Earth Day, conversation organizations at TXST, and everyone's favorite holiday rabbit. 

03-26
11:11

Let’s Play: Why Do We Love Sports?

This month on Enlighten Me, we’re shining the light on what humans get out of our obsession with sports of all kinds, from looking at the re-invigorated fan culture at Texas State sparked by our football team's first bowl winning season, to the social and economic impact of sports fandom across our global culture, and how communities built around sports can be healthy for humans.

02-27
40:26

Mind, Body, Spirit: Navigating Wellness in 2024

In this episode of Enlighten Me, we connect with TXST faculty to discuss the importance of mental, physical, and emotional well-being, especially as we enter the new year.  

01-30
49:28

The Legend of Glurpo & TXST's First Bowl Game - Special Mini Episode

In this episode we cover San Marcos' forgotten underwater clown and discuss TXST's first bowl game in program history against in-state rival Rice University.  See Glurpo: https://www.texasmonthly.com/being-texan/true-story-glurpo-underwater-clown/

12-19
14:41

Healthy Nurses, Healthy You

Nurses are often the faces, and the literal hands, of hands-on healthcare. This month on Enlighten Me, we talk to nurses and other care providers about how the last three years have impacted the way they approach their work, and they reveal some the ways they help keep our communities healthy every day.

11-28
48:14

Without a Trace: The Ghosting Phenomenon

We delve into the haunted world of ghosting, where relationships fade away like spirits in the night. Join us as we explore the phenomena of these sudden disappearances. 

10-31
53:28

A Jury of Your Peers

Trial by jury of your peers…it’s one of the pillars of our legal system, a fundamental American right. But what exactly do those words mean? Is jury duty a burden, an obligation or a privilege? Let’s shed some light on how the jury system works!

09-26
57:49

Ripples on the Water

The Hill Country Studios is coming to San Marcos — what does this mean for the community and our beloved river? TXST experts weigh in on the ripple effects this growth can have on San Marcos and beyond.

08-29
44:12

Introducing the TXST Podcast Network

The TXST Podcast Network. Real stories from our expert faculty and amazing students, exploring important ideas for Texas and sharing how we’re shaping what comes NEXT. New episodes released weekly.

06-29
01:42

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