The Content Generation

In this episode of the Content Generation Podcast, we sit down with Hudl's Tony Linder, to explore how the company is transforming the way schools engage their communities through sports and storytelling. As one of the biggest names in athletic performance analysis technology, Hudl is used by 99% of schools across the U.S. to help student-athletes and teams perform at their best. With the launch of Hudl Fan Suite, the company is now expanding its focus beyond athletes to support entire athletic departments with solutions for live streaming, sharing highlights, ticketing, schedules, and more.

In his 11-year career at Hudl, Tony has transitioned from sales to product management, and now leads market development. In this episode, he offers insights into how high schools are embracing authentic storytelling to stand out and connect,along with how Hudl's solutions help schools tap into student talent for sports broadcast, marketing, and content creation. Tune in to discover how schools can leverage technology to tell authentic stories, involve students in meaningful ways, and maximize their resources to promote athletics and the community behind them.

In this episode of the Content Generation Podcast, we're joined by Shari Veil, Dean of the College of Journalism & Mass Communications at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Under Shari's leadership, the college is one of the most highly regarded in the nation, recently welcoming its largest freshman class in history. She dives into the college's "Do From Day One" philosophy which sets their curriculum apart by providing students with hands-on, experiential learning from the start. With this real-world experience, her students are primed for success in an industry that is rapidly changing.

Drawing from her expertise in risk and crisis communication, Shari discusses the importance of building trust and effectively reaching audiences in today's fragmented media landscape. She also highlights how the college is preparing students to combat misinformation, source credible stories, and navigate the challenges that come with AI-generated content.

Tune in to hear Shari's insights on preparing the next generation of storytellers, the importance of evolving with the field, and her vision for journalism in the years to come.

On this episode of The Content Generation Podcast, we're joined by Melissa Mertz, Product Manager at ParentSquare, whose journey from the classroom to the edtech space offers a fresh perspective on how schools can elevate their online presence with school websites. As the leader of ParentSquare's Smart Sites tool, she helps schools create websites that balance aesthetics, functionality, and impact.

Melissa describes how a school's website is more than an information hub—it's the front porch of your school or district. In our conversation, she shares insights on creating websites that not only look great and are easy to navigate but also meet accessibility and legal standards.

In this episode, Melissa also gives a behind-the-scenes look at her vision for the future of Smart Sites. She highlights how the platform empowers all educators, not just tech experts, and how user feedback drives ongoing improvements. Tune in for expert advice on building school websites that attract prospective students, families, and staff by showcasing the stories that define your school community.

In this episode of the Content Generation Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Joe Sanfelippo, a passionate educator, leader, and storyteller. With 26 years in education—including 12 as Superintendent of Fall Creek School District—Joe has made a profound impact on his own school community and others nationwide. Now a renowned author and speaker, he travels the country helping school leaders and educators harness the power of storytelling to shape their schools' narratives and strengthen their communities.

Joe dives into the importance of authentic storytelling in education, sharing practical advice on building intentional connections, fostering collaborative cultures, and amplifying the positive stories happening every day. He challenges educators and content creators to focus on what truly matters: sharing genuine, impactful stories that reflect the value of their schools.

Tune in as Joe offers a powerful reminder that changing how others perceive us starts with how we tell our own stories. His insights will inspire you to think differently, act intentionally, and ensure your school's story is one that inspires and connects.

In this episode of the Content Generation Podcast, we're joined by Terry Julian, technology facilitator at Hastings Public Schools. Throughout her 14 years with the district, Terry has worn many hats, managing everything from training and professional development to school public relations and social media. With a focus on elevating district storytelling, she recently collaborated with administrators to establish stipend positions for digital content creators at each of the district's eight schools.

Now in its first year, Terry shares how this passionate team is moving the needle forward, working alongside student content creators in digital media, yearbook, and journalism classes. They're also finding creative ways to encourage staff to share about the great things happening in their classrooms—like social media bingo boards and other fun incentives that help creators think outside the box.

Tune in to hear Terry's insights on creating a culture of pride and involvement, her dedication to Hastings Public Schools, and how her recent involvement with the Nebraska School PR Association has been helping her continue to learn and grow in the field.

In this episode of the Content Generation Podcast, we're joined by Patrick Cogan, a senior at Pinkerton Academy and a standout student content creator. Patrick started as a sports videographer his freshman year, and since then his passion for video and content creation has grown. Now the school's primary content creator, Patrick has expanded his skill set, and taken on independent opportunities, working professionally with the NH Sports Page and The United Football League as the youngest team member.

As a student content creator, Patrick has actively collaborated with school administrators to shape the school's social media approach. He believes combining the student perspective with administrative goals has led to authentic, engaging content, ultimately boosting the school's online presence.

Crediting his time at Pinkerton for preparing him for professional work, Patrick has built an impressive freelance portfolio encompassing professional sports projects, conferences, and wedding content. As graduation approaches, his future is bright, with options ranging from college to exciting professional opportunities.

Tune in to hear Patrick's insights on student content creation, authentic storytelling, and how his hands-on experiences as a student have prepared him for success beyond the classroom.

In this episode of the Content Generation Podcast, we're joined by Christopher Villarreal, EdD, Director of Communications at Papillion La Vista Community Schools in Omaha, Nebraska. With 15 years of experience in public education, Chris shares his unique path from marketing and graphic design to teaching, and ultimately, school public relations—all driven by his passion for serving students. Since joining the Papillion La Vista team in January, Chris has quickly become a leader in Nebraska school PR, actively engaging with NebSPRA and organizing collaborative efforts with other districts to strategize around school social media.

Chris highlights the power of collaborative leadership, recounting a recent strategizing session he hosted, where local districts came together to exchange ideas on social media strategy and leveraging the Class Intercom platform. He reflects on how veteran Class Intercom users sparked meaningful conversations that led to innovative strategies and stronger connections. Chris also emphasizes the importance of staying humble and having the courage to learn from others, a philosophy inspired and supported by his superintendent, Dr. Andy Rickli, who champions interconnectedness and collaboration across the district and state.

Tune in to hear Chris's insights on how humility and collaboration not only enhance individual skill sets but also uplift the entire school PR community.

In the season four premiere of the Content Generation Podcast, we're joined by Heidi Vega, APR, the newly installed President of NSPRA (the National School Public Relations Association). With a unique start to her school PR career, Heidi shares her journey from serving in the Air Force to interning with her local school district's communications department, and now leading 200+ school districts across Arizona and school PR professionals nationwide.

In this episode, Heidi discusses how her service background has shaped her approach to school PR and her commitment to authentic leadership. She reflects on her experience as the first Latina Director of Communications in a large Arizona district, and on the impact she will make as the first Latina President in NSPRA's 90-year history.

Drawing from her lived experiences, Heidi highlights the importance of genuine diversity, equity, and inclusion, and the power of embracing your story as both an individual and an organization. Tune in to hear Heidi's insights on leadership, representation, and the future of school PR, as she challenges content creators to establish deeper connections with their audiences through authenticity.

Join us for an insightful conversation with Trent Allen, APR, current National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA) president and Chief of Staff at San Juan USD in Northern California. With a rich background in school public relations, Trent shares his journey within the industry, growing from a one-man show to leading a large and dynamic communications team in one of California's largest school districts.

In this episode, Trent discusses the evolving role of school PR professionals, the explosive growth of the profession, and the critical importance of effective communication in education. He highlights the crucial support and networking opportunities provided by NSPRA, which now boasts over 2,800 members.

Discover how Trent and his team at NSPRA are advocating for industry growth through a commitment to inclusivity and professional development. Hear about the exciting plans for the upcoming NSPRA National Seminar, where education leaders from around the country are invited to learn, engage, and build relationships with like-minded professionals in school communications.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Jason McGehee, Assistant Club Director at Stars Basketball Club in Franklin, TN, located just outside of Nashville. Since its inception in 2014, Stars has seen annual, exponential growth and is now established as the region's top basketball club, impacting over 5,000 young athletes annually.

In this episode, Jason pulls back the curtain on how Stars leverages the power of storytelling to build its renowned brand reputation. Hear firsthand about the club's exceptional coaches fostering transformative mentor relationships with players - which are brought to life through Stars' engaging social media presence.

As an expert merging his passion for athletics with education and leadership, Jason dives into Stars' "MORE THAN" philosophy. Sharing how the club cultivates an unparalleled environment centered on character development, teamwork, and community - instilling invaluable life skills that extend far beyond the court.