Session 6 - Episode 196

In this episode of The Higher Ed Marketer, Bryce Hoffman, VP and Chief Marketing & Communications Officer at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), shares insights from his transition into the CMO role and the evolving landscape of higher ed marketing. He reflects on generational shifts in communication, the challenges of leadership, and the role of trust and creativity in making a real impact.

Let’s dive into the importance of building relationships with campus leadership, taking calculated creative risks, and navigating pushback while staying true to institutional culture. We will explore how courageous leadership is essential to break free from the status quo, implement bold marketing strategies, and create messaging that genuinely connects with audiences.

🎧 Listen Now to Learn:

✅ How to navigate the first 90 days as a new CMO 

✅ Why higher ed marketing struggles with risk-taking

✅ How to balance bold innovation with respect for institutional culture and history.

✅ Strategies for handling pushback while driving meaningful marketing change.

✅ Why pilot testing is the secret weapon for introducing bold new marketing ideas.

✅ How transparency, humility, and strategic creativity build long-term trust.

Join us as we discuss:
2:22 – Navigating the First Days as a CMO
8:43 – Building Trust and Assessing Change
18:10 – Courageous Leadership in Higher Education Marketing
29:34 – Navigating Pushback and Gaining Trust
32:13 – Driving Change While Respecting Culture

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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.

The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast is powered by Caylor Solutions—your go-to partner for higher ed mission-fit marketing strategies, enrollment, and branding needs—and sponsored by Ring Digital, your ad targeting people.

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Season 6 - 195

How can colleges adapt to shifting demographics and enrollment challenges? In this episode, we sit down with Jeremy Taylor, Vice President of Enrollment Management at Defiance College, to explore innovative strategies for attracting and retaining students. Jeremy shares how understanding market dynamics, leveraging data, and aligning recruitment efforts with institutional mission can drive enrollment success. He also highlights key initiatives like tuition reduction and community engagement, while offering insights on balancing traditional and modern approaches to recruitment. Plus, we dive into the importance of team cohesion, self-evaluation, and strategies to prevent staff burnout in the ever-evolving world of higher ed enrollment.

Listen now to learn:

✅ Demographic trends present opportunities for growth. 

✅ Community engagement is crucial for sustainable enrollment.

✅ Data-driven decisions are essential in enrollment management.

✅ Using technology like ChatGPT can simplify data analysis.

✅ Aligning recruitment strategies with institutional mission is crucial.

✅ Building a supportive team culture is essential for success.

✅ Preventing burnout involves celebrating successes and having fun.

Join us as we discuss:

01:30 - Challenges in Enrollment Management

04:01 - Strategies for Enrollment Growth

16:06 - Demographic Trends and Opportunities

22:11 - Innovative Recruitment Strategies

28:14 - Building a Unified Team

31:30 - Preventing Burnout in High-Pressure Environments

36:23 - Self-Evaluation for Institutional Success

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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.

The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast is powered by Caylor Solutions—your go-to partner for higher ed mission-fit marketing strategies, enrollment, and branding needs—and sponsored by Ring Digital, your ad targeting people.

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Season 6 - Episode 194

How do you foster a culture of innovation in higher ed marketing? In this episode, we sit down with Matt Metzger, Chief Marketing Officer at Grace College, to explore the institution’s rebranding journey and the launch of Grace Solutions. Matt shares how his team is embracing fresh marketing strategies, overcoming challenges, and driving engagement through bold, community-focused initiatives. From creative storytelling to student-centered branding, this conversation is packed with ideas and strategies to help higher ed marketers make a lasting impact.

Listen now to learn:
✅ How embedding a view book inside a journal became a game-changing marketing move
✅ How to foster a culture of innovation by encouraging experimentation without fear of failure
✅ The research and community engagement that shaped a successful rebranding process
✅ Leveraging the athletics logo strengthens institutional branding
✅ The hidden challenges of rebranding, from costs to logistical hurdles

Join us as we discuss:

02:19 - Innovative Marketing Strategies at Grace College

06:21 - Fostering a Culture of Innovation

11:19 - The Rebranding Journey of Grace College

19:58 - Introducing Grace Solutions

25:28 - Future Vision and Final Thoughts

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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.

The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast is powered by Caylor Solutions—your go-to partner for higher ed mission-fit marketing strategies, enrollment, and branding needs—and sponsored by Ring Digital, your ad targeting people.

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Season 6 - 193 with Jenny Li Fowler

What does it take to build a thriving, engaged social media presence—without relying on paid promotions? In this episode of The Higher Ed Marketer, we sit down with Jenny Li Fowler, Director of Social Media Strategy at MIT and author of Organic Social Media, to uncover the secrets behind organic social media success. Jenny shares her 6M Framework for social media strategy, how to create content that truly resonates, and practical steps institutions can take to grow flourishing digital communities.

From understanding why people follow your accounts to crafting shareable content and handling social media crises with confidence, this episode is packed with actionable insights for higher ed marketers looking to elevate their social game. Whether you're managing a large institution’s brand or running a social media team of one, Jenny’s expertise will help you create a strategy that attracts and engages your ideal audience.

Listen now to learn:
✅ Why people follow and engage with your institution’s social media
✅ The fundamentals of great content—and what makes people share it
✅ How MIT grew its online presence while staying true to its brand
✅ Practical ways to build authentic communities and increase engagement
✅ How to handle negative feedback and social media crises effectively

Join us as we discuss:

05:49 - The Six M's of Social Media

09:02 - Building Trust and Credibility

12:03 - Tailoring Content for Diverse Audiences

15:01 - Fundamentals of Great Content

21:08 - Embracing Community Engagement

23:12 - Navigating Negative Feedback

33:37 - Metrics for Success

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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.

The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast is powered by Caylor Solutions—your go-to partner for higher ed mission-fit marketing strategies, enrollment, and branding needs—and sponsored by Ring Digital, your ad targeting people.

Hosted by Ausha. Seeausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

~33 minutes (at 1.5x speed)

Ed Wright, VP of Enrollment at Lebanon Valley College, explores the evolving landscape of higher education and the challenges of enrollment management. He shares insights on innovation in a copycat industry and the importance of communication and relationships. As a parent, Ed reflects on guiding his son through college choices, from selecting a major to navigating campus visits. He highlights LVC’s 'build your own visit' model and the impact of personalized, interactive experiences. Ed also draws lessons on work ethic and growth from Kobe Bryant’s Mamba mentality.

Join us as we discuss:

[01:52] Ed Wright's Journey in Higher Education

[12:03] Navigating Challenges in Enrollment Management

[17:51] The Importance of Blocking and Tackling in Enrollment

[23:00] Parenting in Higher Education: A Personal Perspective

[29:12] Navigating College Tours: Insights from Experience

[34:00] The Importance of Clear Communication

[38:05] Building Your Own Visit: A New Approach to Campus Tours

This episode is sponsored by NextGrad. North America’s largest higher-education advertising network.  The NextGrad network generates millions of impressions every month in over eleven-hundred high schools in eighty-two media markets across the United States and Canada. If you’re interested in reaching high school students on their own turf, visit nextgrad.com or email [email protected].

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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.

The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast is powered by Caylor Solutions—your go-to partner for higher ed mission-fit marketing strategies, enrollment, and branding needs—and sponsored by Ring Digital, your ad targeting people.

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this episode, we’re joined by Jeff Ebbing, former NCMPR president and the current Director of Marketing and Communications at Southeastern Community College. Jeff brings a wealth of experience and a passion for showcasing the unique strengths of community colleges. He shares how authentic connections with students can transform lives and dives into marketing strategies that not only engage diverse populations but also empower non-traditional students to feel confident in their educational journey.

Jeff also tackles common misconceptions about community colleges, revealing the power of storytelling to shift perspectives. From creative solutions for tight budgets to leading with adaptability in a rapidly changing world, this conversation is packed with practical tips and inspiring ideas for anyone involved in higher education marketing.

Join us as we discuss:

[03:20] Unique Strengths of Community Colleges

[06:20] Marketing Strategies for Diverse Populations

[10:31] Building Confidence in Non-Traditional Students

[11:03] Addressing Misconceptions about Community Colleges

[18:57] Leveraging Storytelling in Marketing

[22:11] Creative Solutions for Budget Constraints

[25:30] Leadership and Adaptability in Marketing

[34:46] Final Insights and Advice

This episode is sponsored by NextGrad. North America’s largest higher-education advertising network.  The NextGrad network generates millions of impressions every month in over eleven-hundred high schools in eighty-two media markets across the United States and Canada. If you’re interested in reaching high school students on their own turf, visit nextgrad.com or email [email protected].

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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.

The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast is powered by Caylor Solutions—your go-to partner for higher ed mission-fit marketing strategies, enrollment, and branding needs—and sponsored by Ring Digital, your ad targeting people.

Hosted by Ausha. Seeausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this episode of The Higher Ed Marketer, we welcome Dr. Steve Lennox, President of Kingswood University, to explore the bold vision and mission that led to the launch of Kingswood Learn. Designed to provide high-quality, free micro-courses in discipleship and leadership development, Kingswood Learn is a groundbreaking platform that strengthens the church while creating new opportunities for Kingswood University.

Dr. Lennox shares the inspiration, the challenges faced during its development, and how partnerships rooted in trust brought the platform to life. We dive into how this initiative aligns with Kingswood’s mission, opens doors for innovative donor and enrollment conversations, and repositions the university in the eyes of the church and broader educational community. If you’re navigating the intersection of digital transformation and mission fulfillment in higher education, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration.

Join us as we discuss:

[03:07]  Introduction to Kingswood University

[05:55]  Innovative Learning: Kingswood Learn

[09:11]  Challenges and Opportunities in Higher Education

[12:02]  Mission-Driven Education

[15:05]  Building Partnerships and Community Engagement

[17:58]  The Future of Education and Digital Solutions

[21:00]  Advice for Leaders in Higher Education

This episode is sponsored by NextGrad. North America’s largest higher-education advertising network.  The NextGrad network generates millions of impressions every month in over eleven-hundred high schools in eighty-two media markets across the United States and Canada. If you’re interested in reaching high school students on their own turf, visit nextgrad.com or email [email protected].

Resource List: 

Kingswoodlearn.com

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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.

The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast is powered by Caylor Solutions—your go-to partner for higher ed mission-fit marketing strategies, enrollment, and branding needs—and sponsored by Ring Digital, your ad targeting people.

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

This week on The Higher Ed Marketer, we’re honored to host Dr. Nido Qubein, President of High Point University, a visionary leader whose transformative work continues to draw attention across higher ed. In this inspiring and insightful episode, Dr. Qubein shares why educational institutions must prioritize life skills alongside technical expertise, offering a holistic approach that prepares students to thrive in an ever-evolving world.

Dr. Qubein delves into the importance of fostering appreciated value over mere value, the critical role of industry partnerships in aligning curriculum with real-world demands, and the power of distinction over uniqueness in education. Along the way, he offers compelling leadership truths—highlighting the significance of confidence, commitment, and risk management in driving innovation and growth.

Whether you’re an educator, marketer, or leader, this episode is packed with practical and timeless wisdom that will inspire you to think differently about the future of higher education.

Join us as we discuss:

[00:00]  The Importance of Appreciated Value

[02:59]  Curriculum Innovation and Life Skills Development

[05:53]  Engaging Generation Z in Learning

[12:04]  Integrating AI in Higher Education

[22:27]  The Power of Distinction 

[23:35]  Building Industry Partnerships for Real-World Skills

[36:40]  The Importance of Confidence and Commitment

This episode is sponsored by NextGrad. North America’s largest higher-education advertising network.  The NextGrad network generates millions of impressions every month in over eleven-hundred high schools in eighty-two media markets across the United States and Canada. If you’re interested in reaching high school students on their own turf, visit nextgrad.com or email [email protected].

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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.

The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast is powered by Caylor Solutions—your go-to partner for higher ed mission-fit marketing strategies, enrollment, and branding needs—and sponsored by Ring Digital, your ad targeting people.

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

This week on The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Bryan Gross, Vice President for Enrollment Management and Athletics at Hartwick College, for a thought-provoking conversation on marketing and enrollment through the lens of athletics and tuition. 

Dr. Gross dives into Hartwick’s bold tuition reset, sharing the data-driven insights and collaborative efforts behind this game-changing move. Discover how Hartwick is addressing affordability, transparency, and the evolving expectations of students and families.

We also explore the vital role athletics plays in driving enrollment, retention, and school spirit, particularly at smaller institutions. With practical advice for navigating financial aid changes, including the latest FAFSA updates, Dr. Gross challenges institutions to take data-driven risks to shape their enrollment strategies. Tune in for actionable insights and forward-thinking strategies that will inspire real change in your enrollment marketing

Join us as we discuss:

[02:45]  Enrollment Management Initiatives at Hartwick College

[06:04]  A bold Tuition Reset and Its Challenges

[09:05]  Data-Driven Decisions for Tuition Reset

[12:02]  Challenges and Feedback from Current Students

[14:57]  The Role of Athletics in Enrollment and Retention

[17:57]  Final Tips for Enrollment Management Success

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.

The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast is powered by Caylor Solutions—your go-to partner for higher ed mission-fit marketing strategies, enrollment, and branding needs—and sponsored by Ring Digital, your ad targeting people.

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this episode of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast, we’re taking a look under the hood at Caylor Solutions and into the transformative power of generative AI with Bart Caylor, Founder and President of Caylor Solutions, and Zach Coffin, Director of The Higher Ed Marketer. Together, they reveal how the team at Caylor Solutions uses GenAI to elevate productivity, scale services, and innovate new offerings. From custom tools like the "Ask Bart GPT," fractional CMO services, to enhancing the team's productivity, Bart and Zach share the AI-driven strategies that streamline operations and open new creativity within the team. Tune in to discover which tools are indispensable, how daily practice and shared learning fuel team growth, and why focusing on core capabilities over fleeting trends is key to long-term success.

Join us as we discuss:

[02:51] The Impact of AI on Work and Consulting

[05:48] Leveraging AI as a Collaborative Tool

[11:57] Tools for Enhanced Efficiency

[15:08] Custom GPTs and Their Applications

[17:57] GenAI Masterclasses for Your Team

[24:51] Demystifying AI in Marketing Teams with Mindset Shifts

[34:43] Navigating the AI Tool Landscape with Teams

[43:35] Practical Tips for Immediate Action

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

GenAI Masterclass for Team 

Caylor Solutions

ChatGPT 

HeyGen

Chasing Mission Fit by Bart Caylor

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.

The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast is powered by Caylor Solutions—your go-to partner for higher ed mission-fit marketing strategies, enrollment, and branding needs—and sponsored by Ring Digital, your ad targeting people.

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.