What if your most effective recruitment tool starts with a microphone? In this episode, Dr. Chris Lewis, Director of Graduate Programs at the University of Michigan-Flint and host of Victors in Grad School, shares how a grassroots podcast grew into a strategic enrollment asset. Chris walks us through how the show evolved into a multi-touchpoint engagement tool that supports prospective students, current learners, and alumni alike. From concept to execution, we explore how this low-cost, high-impact effort engages audiences across the entire enrollment funnel.

Join us as we discuss: 

• [4:55] Smart distribution strategies for maximum impact
• [9:20] Why small podcast audiences still deliver big value
• [17:31] How to start a podcast without big resources

Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:

• Victors in Grad School
• Castmagic
• ChatGPT

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Guest Name: Dr. Chris Lewis

Guest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drchristopherlewis/

Guest Bio: With over two decades of experience in student affairs, enrollment management, and graduate education, Dr. Lewis has dedicated his career to fostering student success and institutional excellence. Dr. Lewis currently serves as the Director of Graduate Programs at the University of Michigan- Flint, where he has successfully increased enrollment, revitalized graduate admissions policies, and enhanced student engagement through innovative initiatives, including the creation of the Victors in Grad School and Law School Insider podcasts. His leadership extends beyond administration—he is a thought leader committed to elevating the graduate student experience. A proud member of the NASPA community and NASPA Foundation Pillar of the Profession, Dr. Lewis has served in numerous leadership capacities, including as Chair of the Student Affairs Partnering with Academic Affairs (SAPAA) Knowledge Community and the founder of and co- producer of NASPA’s SA Voices from the Field podcast. He has also played a key role in NASPA’s Excellence Awards and Mid-Level Managers Institutes, shaping the next generation of student affairs professionals. 

Beyond his contributions to NASPA, Dr. Lewis has held pivotal roles at institutions such as Lansing Community College, Western Michigan University Cooley Law School, the University of Wisconsin-Manitowoc, and Grand Valley State University. His expertise spans student services, enrollment management, strategic planning, and digital engagement—always with a focus on student success, equity, and access. An accomplished author and presenter, Dr. Lewis has shared his insights at national conferences, published works on academic and student affairs collaboration, and championed the use of podcasting as a tool for professional development and institutional storytelling. In addition to his professional achievements, Dr. Lewis is deeply involved in his community, serving as an elected school board member, a dedicated Rotarian, and an advocate for educational excellence at all levels.

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Connect With Our Host:
Allison Turcio
https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonturcio/
https://twitter.com/allisonturcio

About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Application with Allison Turcio is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!

Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com.