The Faith Leaders Mini-Series - Episode 209 (4 of 4) In the last episode of the Higher Ed Marketer podcast's Faith Leaders Series we speak with Dondi Costin, president of Liberty University, about the intersection of Christian faith and higher education. They discuss the importance of leadership in maintaining the mission of the university, the role of spiritual formation in education, and the need for clarity in mission to avoid drift. Costin shares insights from his military background and chaplaincy, emphasizing the significance of balancing mission and people in leadership. The conversation also touches on the infrastructure needed for spiritual growth and the hope for the next generation of leaders in Christian education. 🎧 Listen to Learn: ✅ Great leaders “mind the mission” through people and process ✅ Spiritual formation requires intentionality at all levels ✅ The G.R.A.C.E of a college President.  ✅ Why personally engaging students matters for executive leadership ✅ The future of Christian higher ed is bright  Join the Discussion: 02:08 - Minding the Mission: Leadership Insights 08:02 - Why Spiritual Formation should be central to Higher Education 12:24 - Building Spiritual Infrastructure at Liberty 24:26 - The Future of Christian Education is bright 30:00 - Hope for the Next Generation of students and leaders The Faith Leaders Mini-Series is sponsored by the Association for Biblical Higher Education (https://www.abhe.org/), an organization serving over 158 faith-based institutions, 72,000 across North America. ABHE seeks to Advance Biblical Higher Education for Kingdom Impact. Learn more at ABHE.org (http://ABHE.org).  – To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-higher-ed-marketer/id1552804442), Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/1u1F4gOhYuZYk2odcMkVjP?si=651cc489750e48ee), or our website (https://www.higheredmarketerpodcast.com/), or search for The Higher Ed Marketer in your favorite podcast player. The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast is powered by Caylor Solutions (https://www.linkedin.com/company/caylor-solutions-inc/)—your go-to partner for higher ed mission-fit marketing strategies, enrollment, and branding needs—and sponsored by Ring Digital (https://www.linkedin.com/company/ring-limited/), your ad targeting people. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Faith Leaders Mini-Series - Episode 208 (3 of 4) In this special mini-series, Bart Caylor and Zach Coffin (VP of The Higher Ed Marketer and Pastor) explore the intersection of faith and higher education. Each week they engage in meaningful conversations with Christian higher ed leaders from across the country. In this week's episode of The Higher Ed Marketer, Dr. David Hoag, President of the Council for Christian Colleges & Universities (CCCU), joins us to unpack the real story behind Christian higher education in 2025. From rising enrollment to the power of mission clarity, Dr. Hoag discusses how faith-based institutions are thriving by boldly embracing their identity. He breaks down affordability myths by revealing the average tuition and surprising discount rates, and shares how CCCU is advocating on Capitol Hill for policies that protect religious liberty and financial accessibility. Through strategic collaboration, courageous leadership, and a renewed commitment to the whole student, Christian colleges are proving to be more essential and more accessible than many believe. 🎧 Listen to Learn: ✅ How mission boldness is fueling enrollment growth across Christian colleges. ✅ Why Christian higher education is often more affordable than families realize. ✅ The role CCCU plays in defending religious liberty through advocacy in Washington, D.C. ✅ What makes thriving Christian campuses different from those that are struggling. ✅ How strategic collaboration and bold leadership are shaping the future of faith-based institutions. Join the Discussion: 03:21 - Current State of Christian Higher Education 07:32 - Defining Factors for Thriving Institutions 14:37 - Misconceptions About Christian Education 17:25 - Affordability of Christian Higher Education 18:08 - CCCU's Priorities and Support for Members 22:53 - Advocacy Work in Washington, D.C. 29:35 - Engaging with Local Representatives 32:03 - Hope for the Future of Christian Education The Faith Leaders Mini-Series is sponsored by the Association for Biblical Higher Education (https://www.abhe.org/), an organization serving over 158 faith-based institutions, 72,000 across North America. ABHE seeks to Advance Biblical Higher Education for Kingdom Impact. Learn more at ABHE.org (http://ABHE.org).  – To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-higher-ed-marketer/id1552804442), Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/1u1F4gOhYuZYk2odcMkVjP?si=651cc489750e48ee), or our website (https://www.higheredmarketerpodcast.com/), or search for The Higher Ed Marketer in your favorite podcast player. The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast is powered by Caylor Solutions (https://www.linkedin.com/company/caylor-solutions-inc/)—your go-to partner for higher ed mission-fit marketing strategies, enrollment, and branding needs—and sponsored by Ring Digital (https://www.linkedin.com/company/ring-limited/), your ad targeting people. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Faith Leaders Mini-Series - Episode 207 (2 of 4) In this special mini-series, Bart Caylor and Zach Coffin (VP of The Higher Ed Marketer and Pastor) explore the intersection of faith and higher education. Each week they engage in meaningful conversations with Christian higher ed leaders from across the country. This week they’re joined by Dr. Phil Cook, President of the North American Coalition for Christian Admissions Professionals (NACCAP). With over 30 years of experience in enrollment and leadership, Phil shares how Christian colleges can balance performance with purpose—navigating enrollment pressures while staying rooted in mission and faith. The conversation explores the role of spiritual authenticity in the recruitment journey, the growing importance of clarity in institutional identity, and how Christian colleges can respond strategically to cultural, technological, and generational shifts in 2025. 🎧 Listen to Learn: ✅ Why mission-fit matters more than ever in a competitive admissions landscape ✅ How “real recognizes real” is the new rule of enrollment marketing ✅ Why direct admissions and digital strategies aren’t enough without authenticity ✅ How Christian colleges can lead in a world shaped by AI and rising skepticism Join the Discussion: 03:15 What is NACCAP and Who Does It Serve? 05:05 Mission-Driven Enrollment and Data-Driven Metrics 08:22 The Evolving Role of Faith in the Admissions Funnel 12:35 Real Recognizes Real: Why Authenticity Wins 16:25 How to Equip Staff for Faith-Centered, Relational Recruitment 25:15 The Role of Community in a Post-AI Admissions Landscape 31:56 What Keeps Christian Higher Ed Leaders Up at Night 34:32 Final Thoughts: Work While You Wait, Worship as You Lead The Faith Leaders Mini-Series is sponsored by the Association for Biblical Higher Education (https://www.abhe.org/), an organization serving over 158 faith-based institutions, 72,000 across North America. ABHE seeks to Advance Biblical Higher Education for Kingdom Impact. Learn more at ABHE.org (http://ABHE.org).  – To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-higher-ed-marketer/id1552804442), Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/1u1F4gOhYuZYk2odcMkVjP?si=651cc489750e48ee), or our website (https://www.higheredmarketerpodcast.com/), or search for The Higher Ed Marketer in your favorite podcast player. The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast is powered by Caylor Solutions (https://www.linkedin.com/company/caylor-solutions-inc/)—your go-to partner for higher ed mission-fit marketing strategies, enrollment, and branding needs—and sponsored by Ring Digital (https://www.linkedin.com/company/ring-limited/), your ad targeting people. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Faith Leaders Mini-Series - Episode 206 (1 of 4) In this special mini-series, Bart Caylor and Zach Coffin (VP of The Higher Ed Marketer) explore the intersection of faith and higher education. Each week of this series they have thoughtful discussions with a Christian Higher Ed leader from across the country.  This week they are joined by Dr. Philip Dearborn, President of The Association for Biblical Higher Ed (ABHE).  Philip unpacks the evolving landscape of Christian higher education, emphasizing the importance of community, leadership, and adapting to change. He shares insights on the challenges faced by institutions, the unique value of discipleship, and the opportunities presented by AI and competency-based education. The conversation highlights the need for self-awareness in leadership and the importance of embracing generational differences to foster collaboration and innovation in education. 🎧 Listen to Learn: ✅ Higher education is not the same that it was 15 years ago. ✅ It’s time we embrace flourishing, not just survival. ✅ We need to learn to listen cross-generationally to thrive in the future. ✅ As more people embrace AI, Christian campuses can be a leader for human connection. Join the Discussion: 03:00 Understanding ABHE: A New Era in Biblical Higher Education 05:58 Challenges in Christian Higher Education: A Race to the Bottom 09:01 The Unique Value of Community in Christian Higher Ed 11:57 Opportunities for Growth: Navigating Change in Higher Education 18:07 Leadership and Self-Awareness: Understanding Your Role 20:59 Generational Dynamics: Bridging the Gap in Education 23:47 Competency-Based Education: Tailoring Learning to Individual Needs 26:48 Harnessing AI: Transforming Online Education 29:58 The Future of Leadership: Embracing Change and Innovation The Faith Leaders Mini-Series is sponsored by the Association for Biblical Higher Education (https://www.abhe.org/), an organization serving over 158 faith-based institutions, 72,000 across North America. ABHE seeks to Advance Biblical Higher Education for Kingdom Impact. Learn more at ABHE.org (http://ABHE.org).  – To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-higher-ed-marketer/id1552804442), Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/1u1F4gOhYuZYk2odcMkVjP?si=651cc489750e48ee), or our website (https://www.higheredmarketerpodcast.com/), or search for The Higher Ed Marketer in your favorite podcast player. The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast is powered by Caylor Solutions (https://www.linkedin.com/company/caylor-solutions-inc/)—your go-to partner for higher ed mission-fit marketing strategies, enrollment, and branding needs. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

We’re thrilled to announce the Faith Leaders Mini Series—a special four-week series of episodes focused on the unique opportunities, challenges, and innovations within Christian higher education. Hosted by Bart Caylor and joined by guest co-host Zach Coffin, VP of The Higher Ed Marketer, this series features conversations with influential leaders from across the country and around the world. Together, they explore how faith and mission shape enrollment, advancement, leadership, and campus culture. Whether you serve in a faith-based institution or simply are curious about this unique perspective, these conversations blend rich insights with practical wisdom for your day-to-day work. And the summer at The Higher Ed Marketer is just getting started. We’ve got an incredible summer lineup ahead—packed with the latest marketing trends, real-world strategies, and fresh inspiration to help you gear up for a strong fall. With new voices, bold ideas, and a spirit of optimism, this is the perfect season to stay plugged in. Sneak Peak at the Summer of The Higher Ed Marketer: Faith Leader Mini-Series Zeemee Summer Series Best of Series Season 7 drops September ➡️ Subscribe now, leave us a review, and connect with us on LinkedIn so you don’t miss a moment. The Faith Leaders Mini Series kicks off next week! Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this conversation, Jeff Salyer, shares insights from his recent transition into Vice President for Enrollment and Marketing at Lee University. He draws parallels between ultra running and the challenges of enrollment, emphasizing the need for effective communication and listening to stakeholders. Jeff also highlights the significance of engaging with external partners and the power of storytelling in shaping the university's brand and connecting with prospective students.  🎧 Listen to Learn: ✅Enrollment is a long game — it takes endurance, not quick wins. ✅Storytelling helps students see themselves in your institution’s journey. ✅Video is one of the most effective ways to connect with prospective students. ✅Authentic communication matters more to students than polished marketing. ✅Listening to your campus and community builds better strategy. Join the Discussion: 02:47 Leadership Surprises in Higher Education 05:52 The Endurance of Enrollment: An Ultra Runner's Perspective 11:56 Engaging with External Partners 15:05 The Power of Storytelling in Marketing 18:00 Rhetoric and Storytelling: Insights from Pixar 20:57 Innovative Use of Video in Higher Education 26:05 Building Community Through Digital Platforms 32:25 Leadership Insights for Enrollment Marketing Today’s episode is sponsored by ZeeMee (https://www.zeemee.com/)—the student community platform that’s been shaping enrollment for over a decade. After 10 years of creating authentic student engagement, and analyzing student actions, ZeeMee knows exactly what signals lead to enrollment—and they’re bringing that data to colleges to help prioritize the right students and drive real results. Students open ZeeMee an average of 13 times a day, making it the place where Gen-Z finds friends, explores colleges, and builds a sense of belonging—before they ever step on campus. And it works: students on ZeeMee are 2x more likely to apply, 3.5x more likely to commit, and 50% less likely to melt. Ready to make recruitment smarter and more effective? Join the movement at ZeeMee.com (http://ZeeMee.com). (http://zeemee.com) – To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-higher-ed-marketer/id1552804442), Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/1u1F4gOhYuZYk2odcMkVjP?si=651cc489750e48ee), or our website (https://www.higheredmarketerpodcast.com/), or search for The Higher Ed Marketer in your favorite podcast player. The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast is powered by Caylor Solutions (https://www.linkedin.com/company/caylor-solutions-inc/)—your go-to partner for higher ed mission-fit marketing strategies, enrollment, and branding needs—and sponsored by Ring Digital (https://www.linkedin.com/company/ring-limited/), your ad targeting people. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Bonus Episode Alert 🚨 We’re closing out Season 6 with something special. In next week’s bonus episode, Dr. Jeff Salyer—VP for Enrollment and Marketing at Lee University—joins us to talk about endurance, storytelling, and the future of student engagement. This short update from Zach Coffin, VP of The Higher Ed Marketer, includes a sneak peek of what’s ahead. Shoutout to our friends at ZeeMee (https://www.zeemee.com/) for making this bonus episode possible. Make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss it! -- Bonus Episode is sponsored by ZeeMee (https://www.zeemee.com/)—the student community platform that’s been shaping enrollment for over a decade. After 10 years of creating authentic student engagement, and analyzing student actions, ZeeMee knows exactly what signals lead to enrollment—and they’re bringing that data to colleges to help prioritize the right students and drive real results. Students open ZeeMee an average of 13 times a day, making it the place where Gen-Z finds friends, explores colleges, and builds a sense of belonging—before they ever step on campus. And it works: students on ZeeMee are 2x more likely to apply, 3.5x more likely to commit, and 50% less likely to melt. Ready to make recruitment smarter and more effective? Join the movement at ZeeMee.com (http://ZeeMee.com). (http://zeemee.com) -- Sneak Peak at the Summer of The Higher Ed Marketer: Faith Leader Mini-Series Zeemee Summer Series Best of Series Season 7 drops September Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Season 6 - Episode 204 In this episode, Dr. Gayle D. Beebe, President of Westmont College, joins us for a candid conversation about leading through adversity and staying anchored in mission when everything feels uncertain. Drawing from more than 30 years in higher education — and nearly two decades as a college president — Dr. Beebe shares hard-won insights on how character, emotional intelligence, and moral clarity shape resilient leadership. We dive into his early “crucible moments,” the strategies that helped him lead through crisis, and how institutions can remain both mission-driven and future-ready — even as technologies like AI reshape the landscape. 🎧 Listen to Learn: ✅What staying true to your mission looks like when budgets are tight and pressure is high. ✅What it means to lead with courage as AI reshapes the higher ed landscape. ✅Why character is foundational to effective leadership — especially in moments of crisis. ✅How emotional intelligence and self-awareness build resilience in high-stakes situations. ✅How moral knowledge helps leaders make tough decisions with clarity and integrity. ✅Why regular reflection isn’t just personal — it’s strategic for institutional leadership. Join the Discussion: 02:00 - Exploring Leadership Lessons from History 03:06 - A Journey into Higher Education Leadership 06:07 - Navigating BIG Challenges in Leadership 09:50 - How to Stay True to Mission During Crisis 12:57 - Preparing for the Future of Higher Education Leadership – To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-higher-ed-marketer/id1552804442), Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/1u1F4gOhYuZYk2odcMkVjP?si=651cc489750e48ee), or our website (https://www.higheredmarketerpodcast.com/), or search for The Higher Ed Marketer in your favorite podcast player. The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast is powered by Caylor Solutions (https://www.linkedin.com/company/caylor-solutions-inc/)—your go-to partner for higher ed mission-fit marketing strategies, enrollment, and branding needs—and sponsored by Ring Digital (https://www.linkedin.com/company/ring-limited/), your ad targeting people. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Season 6 - Episode 203 In this episode, we sit down with Tina Miller from Arizona State University to explore how ASU is boldly embracing AI—not just as a tool, but as a campus-wide transformation strategy. We also dig into their groundbreaking partnership with OpenAI and the creation of ChatGPT EDU, a major step toward reshaping how students and educators interact with AI. Tina unpacks the difference between AI literacy and fluency, and why both matter for preparing students for the future workforce. From building a “digital twin” of the university to deploying custom GPTs that empower leadership, Tina shares how ASU is weaving AI into the fabric of operations, learning, and faculty engagement. 🎧 Listen to Learn: ✅ Custom GPTs can enhance communication and efficiency for university leadership ✅ How students can benefit from immersive learning experiences with the help of AI ✅ AI literacy is different from AI fluency ✅ Effective AI adoption thrives in a team culture built on shared learning and practice. ✅ A practical, comprehensive plan for your entire university to embrace AI. ✅ The details behind ASU’s groundbreaking collaboration with OpenAI Join the Discussion: 03:07 AI's Impact on Learning and Operations 04:58 Engaging Faculty and Staff in AI Integration 08:36 Creating a Digital Twin for Enhanced Learning 13:20 Utilizing Custom GPTs for Leadership Support 14:22 Partnership with OpenAI and ChatGPT EDU 19:34 Strategies for Scaling AI Initiatives Across Departments 35:05 Principled Innovation in AI 36:09 Literacy vs. Fluency in AI Usage To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-higher-ed-marketer/id1552804442), Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/1u1F4gOhYuZYk2odcMkVjP?si=651cc489750e48ee), or our website (https://www.higheredmarketerpodcast.com/), or search for The Higher Ed Marketer in your favorite podcast player. The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast is powered by Caylor Solutions (https://www.linkedin.com/company/caylor-solutions-inc/)—your go-to partner for higher ed mission-fit marketing strategies, enrollment, and branding needs—and sponsored by Ring Digital (https://www.linkedin.com/company/ring-limited/), your ad targeting people. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Season 6 - Episode 202 Is your university truly prepared for a crisis—and is that plan ready to activate when it matters most? In this conversation, Mike Thomas, Vice President for Integrated Marketing Communications at Pepperdine University, explores the vital role of gratitude, crisis communication, and the Emergency Operations Committee in navigating crises like wildfires. He underscores the power of authentic brand messaging and the university’s deep commitment to caring for its students in times of crisis. The discussion also highlights the importance of a EOC team, active community engagement, and the hopeful role a well-defined crisis communication plan can play in keeping people informed and connected during emergencies. 🎧 Listen to Learn: ✅ Why crisis communication is essential for community safety and reassurance. ✅ How the Emergency Operations Committee plays a crucial role in crisis preparedness. ✅ Effective communication should address both physical and emotional safety. ✅ Social media can be a powerful tool for community engagement during crises. ✅Transparency in communication fosters trust within the community. Join the Discussion: 03:02 Crisis Communication and Community Response 06:04 Emergency Operations Committee: Preparedness and Execution 09:05 The Importance of Communication in Crisis 12:04 Building a Culture of Safety and Transparency 14:58 Leveraging Social Media for Community Engagement 23:52 Authenticity in Brand Messaging 26:56 Metrics for Measuring Brand Effectiveness --- To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-higher-ed-marketer/id1552804442), Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/1u1F4gOhYuZYk2odcMkVjP?si=651cc489750e48ee), or our website (https://www.higheredmarketerpodcast.com/), or search for The Higher Ed Marketer in your favorite podcast player. The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast is powered by Caylor Solutions (https://www.linkedin.com/company/caylor-solutions-inc/)—your go-to partner for higher ed mission-fit marketing strategies, enrollment, and branding needs—and sponsored by Ring Digital (https://www.linkedin.com/company/ring-limited/), your ad targeting people. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.