Matt and Ryan sit down with Dr. Daniel MacDonald and Dr. Jeremy Murray from California State University, San Bernardino to explore the faculty perspective of how generative AI is reshaping higher education. From concerns about AI replacing critical thinking to the promise of increased accessibility and productivity, the conversation dives deep into the ethical and practical implications of AI in the classroom. MacDonald and Murray call for clear departmental policies, thoughtful integration, and a renewed focus on teaching students how to think—not just what to produce. 

Dr. Daniel MacDonald is Chair of the Economics Department at California State University San Bernardino and Founder of Inland Empire Dynamic Insights LLC, an economics-based consulting firm specializing in data analysis for law, higher ed, and local government. He is an educator with over 10 years of experience in academic and applied research. Find him online at, and check out his company at https://iedynamicinsights.com/

Dr. Jeremy Murray teaches and writes about modern China and US-China relations, and has published work on Hainan island, Asian cultural traditions, and pop culture.  He serves as faculty co-advisor for the award-winning student-run history journal, History in the Making.  He coordinates the CSUSB Modern China Lecture Series and helps coordinate the CSUSB Conversations on Race and Policing and the Disability Studies Lecture Series. He was a Wilson Center China Fellow for the 2022-23 year and is a Fulbright Taiwan Fellow for the 2025-26 cycle. Find his faculty profile here: https://www.csusb.edu/profile/jmurray

Higher Listenings: Joy for EducatorsA new podcast from Top Hat delivering ideas, relief, and joy to the future of teaching.

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