In this episode of The Comm Dept Podcast, Phil Goodman of Brentwood Academy is joined by Libby Alvarez of Lipscomb Academy and Jennifer Crouch of Nashville Christian for an honest and encouraging conversation about the past semester in independent school marketing and communications. Together, they recap key wins, challenges, and lessons learned, and reflect on how their teams navigated a season full of change, opportunity, and growth.

The conversation then turns toward the future, as Phil, Libby, and Jennifer share what they’re looking ahead to in 2026, emerging opportunities they’re watching, and practical ways communications teams can begin preparing now for the next chapter. They also offer a brief teaser for Elevate 2026, sharing why the conference continues to be a meaningful space for learning and community—and yes, registration is officially open.