Drawing from their shared roots in journalism, Julia Ferrante and Rachel Colquitt reveal how storytelling, authenticity, and human connection are reshaping how institutions communicate, build trust, and inspire action in a rapidly changing landscape. Their conversation highlights how marketers can move beyond surface-level messaging to uncover deeper stories, create meaningful connections, and lead with clarity in an increasingly complex and AI-influenced world.

🎧 What We Cover in This Episode

• The transition from journalism to higher ed marketing and why it matters

• How storytelling and qualitative research shape authentic brand voices

• Why asking better questions leads to stronger marketing outcomes

• Balancing AI adoption with human-centered communication

• Strategies for gaining buy-in and leading brand change across campus

🎙️ Episode Highlights

03:10 – Why journalism naturally leads to purpose-driven higher ed work

07:40 – The most valuable journalism skills marketers should adopt

12:10 – How brand voice is shaped by audience perception and truth

19:50 – Building authentic brands through storytelling and culture shifts

33:20 – Advice for new marketers entering higher education

38:20 – Staying human in an AI-driven world

The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast is powered by Caylor Solutions—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, Spotify, or our website, or search for The Higher Ed Marketer in your favorite podcast player.

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