In this episode of the ClassicalU Podcast, Jesse Hake welcomes Classical Academic Press video producer Cody Wanner for an illuminating conversation about storytelling, wonder, and his growing encounter with classical Christian education. Cody reflects on formative experiences such as hearing The Hobbit read aloud by his sixth-grade math teacher and explains why poetic knowledge and awakening wonder have become central to his understanding of education. The conversation turns to their recent work capturing stories from graduates of the University of Kansas Integrated Humanities Program, including its radical emphasis on attentive listening, meaningful limits, and learning through beauty. 

Drawing connections to pickleball, flow state, and the rules that make genuine play possible, Cody explores the paradox that boundaries and discipline can actually create greater freedom. Jesse and Cody also consider the formative power of heroes and stories, from The Hobbit and The Count of Monte Cristo to The Princess Bride, and why good education allows students to wrestle honestly with both virtue and human frailty. The episode concludes with a behind-the-scenes look at capturing great teaching for ClassicalU and Cody’s reflections on the creativity, resilience, and shared purpose he has encountered among his colleagues at Classical Academic Press. Listeners will come away with an invitation to rediscover education as an encounter with wonder, disciplined freedom, great stories, and the beauty of learning well.

Listeners may also be interested in learning more about the Kansas Integrated Humanities Program in James S. Taylor’s Poetic Knowledge: The Recovery of Education. To explore these themes further, consider the following ClassicalU Courses: The Good Teacher, The Festive and Praying School, and The Art of Poetry.