140. Remixing Higher Ed: Paul Glastris on College Rankings, Democracy, and Who Higher Education Really Serves

In this in-depth conversation, Washington Monthly editor-in-chief Paul Glastris joins Gerardo to unpack how America’s obsession with elite college rankings distorts our sense of what higher education is for. From his days inside U.S. News & World Report to his years building an alternative ranking system rooted in upward mobility, research, and civic service, Glastris offers a powerful critique — and a hopeful vision for how colleges can once again serve democracy. They dig into: The myth of “best” colleges and how exclusivity became a badge of honor Why schools like Fresno State and Berea College outshine Ivy League institutions in real impact How higher ed has become a political battleground — and what’s at stake for our democracy What vocational education really looks like when it’s not just political theater How students, families, and educators can use data wisely and choose institutions that serve the public good Listen if you care about: Educational equity • Democracy • College access • First-gen students • Public policy • Media and truth-telling Guest: Paul Glastris, Editor-in-Chief of The Washington Monthly Follow him on X and BlueSky: @glastris Explore the latest college rankings at washingtonmonthly.com Host: Gerardo A. Muñoz — 2021 Colorado Teacher of the Year, educator, scholar, disruptor, and co-host of Too Dope Teachers and a Mic Music by: Kevin Adams Links Mentioned: Washington Monthly 2025 College Rankings: washingtonmonthly.com/college-guide Washington Monthly Podcast