Every event tells a story, but only the most intentional ones help people feel your brand. At Biola University (https://www.biola.edu/), Tracey Harrison (https://www.linkedin.com/in/traceymharrison/), Vice President for Communications and Brand Marketing, is redefining what campus events can be through a framework called Eventful Branding. This philosophy turns events from logistical tasks into meaningful, mission-driven experiences that embody the heart of an institution. Through storytelling, hospitality, and collaboration, universities can design moments that make guests feel seen, valued, and connected to something greater. Drawing from Biola’s innovative approach, this conversation explores how to transform everything from campus tours to groundbreaking ceremonies into living expressions of your brand identity. You’ll learn how to unite marketing and events under one story, foster emotional connection with Gen Z, and build brand belief through authentic, human-centered design. 🎧 Join us as we discuss: What Eventful Branding means and how to apply it across campus Creating immersive events that communicate mission through emotion Why hospitality is a marketing strategy, not just an act of service Building cross-departmental alignment through shared storytelling How to surprise and delight students with purpose and creativity Practical ideas for smaller institutions to elevate their event experience 🎙️ Inside the Episode 04:37 – Defining eventful branding and how it came to life at Biola 07:44 – How a film school groundbreaking became a storytelling moment 11:16 – Bringing “unreasonable hospitality” to higher ed 33:59 – How smaller schools can create big emotional impact 37:58 – Transforming campus visits into emotional brand experiences 46:48 – Building brand belief through meaningful human connection 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, AI expertise, and branding needs.  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 proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network. (https://thehigheredmarketer.com/) Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

How do you grow international enrollment in a world defined by volatility, technology and shifting global dynamics? Randy Byers, (https://www.linkedin.com/in/randy-b-07544820/)Vice President for International Affairs at Dallas Baptist University, (https://www.dbu.edu/) brings over 20 years of global education leadership to unpack what it takes to build sustainable, ethical, and agile international recruitment strategies. In this wide-ranging conversation, Randy shares how institutions can move beyond short-term recruitment goals to create long-term cultural alignment and student success. From the misconceptions that derail global partnerships to the transformative potential of generative AI in communication and translation, he outlines a new vision for internationalization that balances innovation with integrity. 🎧Join Us As We Discuss Why "easy money" thinking has hurt international recruitment, and what to do instead. How to build authentic cross-cultural relationships that lead to trust and retention Where generative AI can enhance translation, evaluation and engagement (without losing humanity) The ethical implications of automation and the need for AI literacy in higher ed leadership Preparing globally minded graduates who value peace, humility and critical thinking 🎙️Inside the Episode 02:29 - The biggest misconceptions about international recruitment 06:09 - Practical ways to build cross-cultural understanding on campus 08:42 - Global market shifts and why diversity of countries matter 12:51 - The role of AI in translation and personalized communication 17:40 - Ethics, transparency and "human in the loop" leadership 26:00 - Why technology must serve community, not replace it 34:11 - The next five years of global higher education 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, AI expertise, and branding needs. 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 proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network.  (https://thehigheredmarketer.com/) Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

With rising competition and shrinking budgets, small colleges can feel squeezed out of the higher ed conversation. But Tom Kook (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomkook102/), Vice President for Enrollment and Marketing at Emmaus University (https://www.emmaus.edu/), shares how thinking small can actually be a strategic advantage. From mission-first messaging to building nimble teams that punch above their weight, Tom unpacks how smaller institutions can thrive without trying to be everything to everyone. Through creativity, collaboration, and clear focus, Tom reveals the high-impact strategies that help Emmaus stand out in a crowded market while staying true to its roots. 🎧 Join us as we discuss: How small colleges can leverage constraints to fuel innovation Why authenticity is the most powerful marketing tool Building cross-functional teams that are lean but high performing The role of brand clarity and internal buy-in Strategies to compete with large universities on a modest budget 🎙️ Inside the Episode 02:15 – Tom’s path from large institutions to a small college mission 06:52 – Why constraints create creative momentum 09:37 – Building a high-trust, cross-functional marketing team 13:21 – Translating mission into a distinct brand story 16:48 – Getting buy-in across campus for a unified brand strategy 19:42 – Practical tips for marketing with limited resources 27:45 – Advice for marketers trying to do more with less 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, AI expertise, and branding needs.  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 proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network.  (https://thehigheredmarketer.com/) Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Does your institution have a unique niche like Ringling College of Art and Design (https://www.ringling.edu/)? For Dr. John Chopka, (https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-chopka-1b82073/) standing out in a niche starts with listening, builds on trust, and is fueled by storytelling. With more than 35 years of enrollment experience, Dr. Chopka shares practical strategies for recruiting in niche markets, managing institutional change, and creating momentum without losing mission. From redefining outcomes through portfolio-based admissions to embracing servant leadership and transparency, this episode offers timely wisdom for leaders guiding campuses through growth, disruption, and transformation. Whether you serve at a faith-based college, an art school, or a liberal arts institution, these insights apply across the board. 🎧 Join us as we discuss: Recruiting and marketing in niche higher ed settings Why outcomes storytelling is more effective than stats alone The role of servant leadership in driving lasting change How to balance innovation with institutional identity Communicating transparently without losing optimism The importance of peer networks for professional resilience 🎙️ Inside the Episode  07:15 – How recruiting for niche institutions shapes marketing strategy 11:30 – Shattering the starving artist myth with storytelling 14:00 – Using experiences, not just facts, to engage Gen Z 20:10 – Prioritizing change with patience and servant leadership 25:30 – Staying grounded as a leader during uncertainty 27:40 – Communicating truthfully while building trust 32:40 – Why leaders should never go it alone 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, AI expertise, and branding needs.  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 proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network.  (https://thehigheredmarketer.com/) Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Artificial intelligence is reshaping higher education and each generation is approaching it differently. NYU’s Conor Grennan (https://www.linkedin.com/in/conorgrennan/) , alongside his Gen Z son, Finn, explores how AI is influencing academic integrity, workforce readiness, and the way students engage with learning. Rather than approaching AI with fear or hype, Conor calls institutions to engage with it from a place of curiosity, conviction, and intentionality. This episode challenges assumptions and offers a hopeful, practical framework for integrating AI into both academic and personal formation. 🎧 Join us as we discuss: How AI is changing the way we teach, learn, and lead The role of discipleship in shaping tech ethics Why Gen Z students expect transparency, not perfection Creating campus-wide AI literacy with joy and curiosity Using storytelling to make tech feel less intimidating 🎙️ Inside the Episode  06:14 – What it means to disciple students in the age of AI 08:50 – The danger of seeing AI as “just a tool” 13:22 – How higher ed should position itself as a moral compass 16:09 – The three pillars of AI literacy at NYU Stern 30:03 – Faith, imagination, and the opportunity ahead 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, AI expertise, and branding needs.  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 proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network.  (https://thehigheredmarketer.com/) Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Higher ed is under pressure, and the clock is ticking for leaders to make bold, strategic moves. In this episode, Dr. Jamie Caridi (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-caridi-ph-d-3571a422/) shares how he helped Bethany College (https://www.bethanywv.edu/) overcome deep financial challenges, rebuild trust, and launch a high-impact strategic plan. From reaching economic equilibrium to forming unexpected partnerships, Caridi unpacks a leadership playbook grounded in clarity, innovation, and courage. This conversation is a practical roadmap for campus leaders looking to rethink planning cycles, enrollment strategy, and cross-sector collaboration in a rapidly shifting landscape. 🎧 Join us as we discuss: Why three-year strategic plans are the new standard Redefining economic equilibrium in small colleges How to stop chasing "more" and start choosing mission Building innovation cultures in tradition-bound spaces When partnerships become survival strategies The courageous leadership higher ed needs now 🎙️ Inside the Episode  08:34 – Fixing a $5M deficit and building economic equilibrium 11:00 – Calling out the “enrollment cliff” excuse 14:03 – What innovation really looks like in higher ed 17:47 – Start, Stop, Continue: Creating space for new ideas 21:18 – Why marketers must have a seat at the innovation table 25:21 – Building revenue-positive partnerships with former competitors 36:58 – Rethinking cost models and corporate partnerships 38:25 – Demand excellence, not perfection 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, AI expertise, and branding needs.  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 proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network.  (https://thehigheredmarketer.com/) Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

When Dr. Dr. Amy Bragg Carey (https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-carey-2963a6ab/) stepped into her role as president of Friends University (https://www.friends.edu/), the institution was facing financial instability, mission drift, and uncertainty about its identity in Christian higher ed. Nearly a decade later, Friends has achieved record enrollment and reclaimed its Christian mission with clarity and confidence. In this episode, Dr. Carey shares how small, consistent decisions have built trust, attracted donors, and re-centered the university on its founding values. From building student personas to implementing AI tools in recruitment, her leadership blends faith, data, and vision for the future. 🎧 Join us as we discuss: Turning around a university in financial and mission crisis Why small decisions shape institutional culture over time Defining and articulating Christian identity in a diverse student body Using student personas to inform recruitment Leveraging AI for personalized marketing Building trust as a new leader in times of change 🎙️ Inside the Episode  02:00 -  Financial Challenges and Strategies 08:00 -   Revitalizing the Christian Mission  15:00 -   Building Trust and Transparency  21:00  -  Strategic Marketing and Personas 27:00  -  Maintaining Institutional Identity 33:00  -  Leadership Insights and Future Opportunities 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, AI expertise, and branding needs. 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 proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network. (https://thehigheredmarketer.com/) Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

How do you manage and elevate a brand across 19 campuses serving more than 200,000 students? In this episode, Kathie Fleck (https://www.linkedin.com/in/krfleck/) of Ivy Tech Community College (https://www.ivytech.edu/) shares how her team is building brand consistency across one of the largest community college systems in the country. From messaging and segmentation to staff mentorship and innovation, Kathie unpacks what it takes to lead with trust, strategy, and a people-first mindset in a highly decentralized environment. 🎧Join us as we discuss: Building brand consistency across multiple campuses Why research and listening come before messaging Strategies for audience-based segmentation at scale Embracing calculated risks in higher ed marketing Using AI and innovation to stretch budget and impact The power of internal mentoring and cross-campus collaboration 🎙️ Inside the Episode  06:22 – Building Internal Assets for Brand Consistency 14:33 – Leading Change with a People-First Approach 24:17 – Segmenting by Audience, Not Region 27:20 – Innovating on a Budget: Testing New Channels 30:53 – Using AI to Scale Creative Output 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.  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 proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network.  (https://thehigheredmarketer.com/) Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

When Kesha Boyce Williams (https://www.linkedin.com/in/keshaboycewilliams/) joined USC Upstate (https://uscupstate.edu/), she inherited an eight-year dream deferred: a much-needed website redesign. But rather than treat it as a technical update, she led with strategy, relationship-building, and storytelling to turn the university’s website into a true enrollment driver. In this episode, Kesha shares how strategic leadership, cross-campus collaboration, and clear communication helped USC Upstate reimagine its digital presence. You’ll hear about the planning process, why outside expertise matters, and how to anchor web redesigns in data, user experience, and storytelling that moves prospective students to action. 🎧 Join us as we discuss: Why websites should serve as your #1 enrollment tool Lessons in change management and cross-campus collaboration How storytelling connects prospective students to your brand The importance of internal buy-in and executive leadership support Practical advice for kicking off a website redesign the right way 🎙️ Inside the Episode  08:07 – Why Your Website Is Your Front Door 16:20 – Aligning Website Strategy With Enrollment Goals 18:40 – Embedding Storytelling Into Web Strategy 21:39 – Leadership Buy-In at Every Level 24:11 – 10 Practical Steps to Kick Off a Website Overhaul 35:52 – Collaboration Over Competition in Higher Ed 38:20 – Engage Students Early, Learn From Their Journey 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.  The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast is proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network.  (https://thehigheredmarketer.com/) Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What does it take to lead a beloved institution through a name change without alienating stakeholders or losing sight of your values? In this episode, Dr. Mark Milioni, (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-milioni-42523a10/) President of Mission University (https://mission.edu/) (formerly Baptist Bible College), shares the deeply intentional and strategic process behind one of higher ed’s most thoughtful rebrands. Dr. Milioni walks us through the financial and cultural challenges he faced upon taking leadership, why a name change wasn’t a silver bullet but rather the culmination of a larger transformation, and how he balanced tradition with vision to roll out Mission University. From legal protections to faculty engagement, from strategic partnerships to athletics and student recruitment, you’ll hear how courage, clarity, and collaboration shaped every step. 🎧 Join us as we discuss: Why rebranding requires courageous leadership, not just clever marketing How to roll out a new name without losing your base The role of partnerships in expanding program offerings How athletics and enrollment align with institutional mission The importance of external validation and legal groundwork 🎙️ Inside the Episode  02:15 - Mission Universities rebranding journey.  10:30 -  Financial challenges and the initial state of the institution.  18:45 -  The decision-making process behind the name change.  25:00 - Strategies for managing change and stakeholder engagement.  35:20 - The role of strategic partnerships in the transition.  45:10 - Athletics and its impact on the rebranding strategy.  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.  The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast is proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network. (https://thehigheredmarketer.com/) Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.