May 1, 2026
On today's episode, Ben Kinney speaks with Doug Searcy, president of Barton College in Wilson, North Carolina. Doug shares the story of his western North Carolina upbringing, the family courage that opened the door to higher education, and an unforgettable college lesson in accountability after he dented the president's car. He and Ben dig into Barton's growth alongside a thriving Wilson, new programs in health sciences and AI-driven business, and why civil discourse and critical thinking matter more than ever. Stick around to the end for Doug's love of 80s rock, James Taylor, and a good Dick's hot dog.