Joined by guest host Dr. Nicole Cooke (38:22), current holder of the Augusta Baker Endowed Chair and professor at the University of South Carolina, Adam and Nicole discuss the implications of banning books in prisons, the importance of free libraries, and illuminate the need to keep teachers happy.

First, Adam and Nicole contextualize the absurd reasons why prisons in the US have been banning certain “controversial” books from their prison, including ramen cookbooks and romance novels (06:37).

Then, they explore the obstacles faced by teachers, as school boards address the increasing shortage of educators by recruiting beyond their borders, essentially brain draining developing countries (49:14).

Tune in now and enjoy the type of conversations you wish you had around the workplace water cooler!

[Episode Stories]

New Report Finds ‘Staggering Number’ Of Books Banned In U.S. Prisons

Jamaica Fears Brain Drain As Teachers Leave For U.S. Schools

[Episode Links]

Dr. Nicole Cooke (Baker Chair Website)

AAPF (Website)

Instagram (@WaterCoolerTalkPod)

Artwork (www.Kohney.com)

Water Cooler Talk Podcast | Episode 089