The Signal

By Jeff Dillon

With more than 500,000 downloads, The Signal is the podcast for higher education’s innovative leaders.

Hosted by Jeff Dillon, The Signal cuts through the noise of the "status quo" to bring you the st... more

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FAQs about The Signal:

How many episodes does The Signal have?

The podcast currently has 104 episodes available.

The Signal episodes:

February 28, 2025Ep. 24 - Cheryl Broom: Mastering Digital Marketing in Higher Education
In this episode, Jeff Dillon sits down with Cheryl Broom, a leader in higher education marketing, to explore the rapidly evolving landscape of marketing strategies within academia. Cheryl delves into how colleges and universities are adapting to new trends, the transformative role of technology and AI, and the critical importance of personalization in engaging today’s students.
From the challenges of integrating digital marketing tools to the barriers hindering AI adoption, Cheryl offers a wealth of knowledge on how institutions can optimize their enrollment strategies through effective communication and innovative approaches.
The conversation also looks ahead, discussing what the future holds for higher education marketing and how institutions can stay ahead in an increasingly competitive environment.
Takeaways
Cheryl Broom emphasizes the importance of community college marketing.
The shift from print to digital marketing has been significant in higher education.
AI is being used to enhance marketing strategies and improve efficiency.
Personalization in marketing is crucial for engaging potential students.
Many colleges struggle with bureaucratic hurdles that hinder innovation.
Targeted marketing strategies yield better enrollment results.
TikTok can be effective for brand building but may not drive immediate enrollment.
Automation and CRM systems are underutilized in many colleges.
Implementation and planning are key to successful marketing strategies.
Chasing shiny objects can lead to inconsistent marketing efforts.

Chapters
(00:00) Introduction
(02:27) The Birth of Graduate Communications
(05:09) Evolution of Marketing in Higher Education
(08:44) Leveraging AI in Marketing Strategies
(11:30) Barriers to AI Adoption in Higher Ed
(13:07) Optimizing Enrollment Through Targeted Marketing
(18:15) The Role of TikTok in Higher Ed Marketing
(19:48) Automation and CRM in Higher Ed
(20:40) The Importance of Implementation of Systems in Marketing Strategies
(25:46) Outdated Marketing Strategies to Abandon
(27:30) Future Predictions for Higher Ed Marketing

Find Cheryl Broom here:
LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherylbroom/
Graduate Communications
https://gradcomm.com/

And find EdTech Connect here:
Web:https://edtechconnect.com/
...more
30min
February 21, 2025Ep. 23 - Joel Goodman: The Future of Higher Ed Digital Strategy
Joel Goodman, founder of Bravery Media, discusses his journey in higher education marketing, the evolution of digital strategies, and the importance of user experience and content in driving enrollment.
He emphasizes the need for higher ed institutions to understand the value of their websites and the role of AI in enhancing marketing efforts. Joel also highlights the challenges faced by higher ed websites, including performance issues and the need for a content audit. The discussion concludes with insights on the future of AI in higher ed and the importance of focusing on prospective students' needs.

Insights & Takeaways
Joel Goodman has over 15 years of experience in higher ed marketing.
Bravery Media focuses on human-centric designs to improve digital experiences.
The evolution of higher ed has been gradual, with many challenges persisting.
Leadership in higher ed is beginning to recognize the value of websites.
Content strategy often leans too heavily on branding rather than information.
Fast-loading websites significantly impact conversion rates.
AI tools are often overhyped and not always effective in higher ed.
The human touch in admissions is a key differentiator for institutions.
Higher ed websites often serve as dumping grounds for information.
A full content audit is essential for improving user experience.

Conversation Rundown
00:00 Introduction to Joel Goodman and Bravery Media
02:44 Joel's Journey in Higher Ed Marketing
05:31 The Evolution of Higher Ed and Digital Strategies
07:17 Understanding the Value of Content and Websites
10:21 Challenges of Higher Ed Websites and Performance
13:45 Search, SEO and AI Tools
18:07 AI's Role in Higher Ed Marketing
20:25 The Future of AI in Higher Ed
29:03 Key Takeaways and Closing Thoughts

Dig Deeper
LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelgoodman/
Bravery Media on EdTech Connect
https://edtechconnect.com/service/bravery-media/41/

Bravery Media website
https://bravery.co/

And find EdTech Connect here:
https://edtechconnect.com/
...more
32min
February 14, 2025Ep. 22 - Pete Mackey: Mastering Strategic Communications in Higher Education
In this episode, Jeff Dillon interviews Pete Mackey, PhD, founder and CEO of Mackey Strategies, exploring the intersection of strategic communications and technology in higher education.
They discuss the evolution of Mackey Strategies, the integration of technology in communication strategies, the role of AI, crisis communication, and the ethical implications of AI in the field. The conversation emphasizes the importance of digital governance and the need for training in technology for emerging leaders in communication.
Takeaways
Mackey Strategies focuses on integrating technology into communication strategies.
Technology is essential for effective communication in higher education.
AI can enhance personalization in communication efforts.
Crisis communication requires a well-defined strategy and practice.
Digital governance is crucial for managing technology in institutions.
AI's capabilities are advancing rapidly, impacting communication roles.
Training programs for technology use are essential for communication leaders.
Ethical considerations around AI usage are becoming increasingly important.
Institutions must adapt to technological advancements to remain effective.

Chapters
(00:00) Introduction to Strategic Communications
(02:18) The Genesis of Mackey Strategies
(05:28) Examples of Mackey Strategies Integrating Technology in Communications for Clients
(07:56) Essential Tools for Higher Ed Communication
(10:31) Crisis Communication Strategies
(12:51) The Evolution of Content Management Systems
(15:21) AI's Impact on Personalization and Communication
(23:58) Preparing for Technological Advancements
(22:37) Leadership Development and Technology Training
(26:19) Ethics of AI in Communication
(29:58) Conclusion and Future Outlook

Find Pete Mackey here:
LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/petemackey/
Mackey Strategies
https://mackeystrategies.com/

And find EdTech Connect here:
Web:https://edtechconnect.com/
...more
34min
February 07, 2025Ep. 21 - Eric Smith: Bridging Cybersecurity & Digital Innovation in Higher Education
In this conversation, Eric Smith, Vice President of Technical Services Delivery at Fortify Data, discusses the evolving landscape of cybersecurity in higher education.
He shares insights from his extensive experience across various industries, emphasizing the unique challenges faced by higher ed institutions.
The discussion covers Fortify Data's mission to provide continuous risk assessment and threat intelligence, the importance of understanding vulnerabilities, and the need for effective budgeting and awareness in cybersecurity strategies.
Eric also highlights the significance of continuous penetration testing and shares success stories from clients who have improved their cybersecurity posture.
Takeaways
Eric Smith has nearly 30 years of experience in cybersecurity.
Fortify Data focuses on continuous risk assessment for higher ed.
Higher education institutions face unique cybersecurity challenges.
Ransomware and phishing remain significant threats in higher ed.
Continuous penetration testing provides ongoing security insights.
Higher ed lacks the financial resources of other sectors.
Awareness of vulnerabilities is crucial for effective cybersecurity.
Metrics and scores help measure cybersecurity success.
GLBA compliance is essential for universities accepting federal funds.
Budgeting for cybersecurity often increases after a breach.
Chapters
(00:00) Introduction to Cybersecurity and Eric Smith's Background
08:02 Understanding Threats: Ransomware and Phishing in Higher Ed
09:16 Why Higher Ed is a Target for Cyber Attacks
18:00 Success Stories and Lessons Learned in Higher Ed Cybersecurity
22:57 Final Thoughts and Advice for Universities

Find Eric Smith here:
LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jericsmith/
FortifyData
https://fortifydata.com/industries/higher-education/

And find EdTech Connect here:
Web:https://edtechconnect.com/
...more
28min
January 31, 2025Ep. 20 - Jenae Cohn: AI, Technology and the Human Connection
In this conversation, Dr. Jenae Cohn discusses her extensive experience at the intersection of higher education and technology, focusing on the challenges and opportunities presented by digital reading and generative AI.
She emphasizes the importance of adapting teaching methods to meet the needs of students who engage with texts in diverse ways, particularly in the context of AI's growing presence in education.
Dr. Cohn also addresses ethical concerns, equity in access to AI tools, and the necessity of maintaining human connections in an increasingly AI-driven educational landscape. She concludes with advice for university leaders on adopting AI thoughtfully and critically.
Take Aways
Digital technology has transformed how we consume information.
Students often read and write on screens, necessitating new teaching strategies.
Generative AI should address specific problems in education, not just be adopted for its own sake.
AI-generated textbooks may not solve the real issues in student engagement.
Faculty need to navigate the complexities of AI in the classroom.
Ethical concerns around data privacy and surveillance are paramount with AI tools.
TakeawaysEquity in access to AI tools is a significant challenge for institutions.
Maintaining human connection is crucial in an AI-driven educational environment.
University leaders should adopt AI with a mindset of continued learning and inquiry.
A thoughtful approach to AI adoption is essential to avoid negative consequences.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Dr. Jenae Cohn
03:27 Generative AI in Education: Opportunities and Challenges
08:41 Integrating AI into the Classroom
12:17 Faculty Resistance and Acceptance of AI
14:18 Ethical Considerations of AI in Education
17:26 Equity and Access to AI Tools
20:54 Maintaining the Human Connection
26:31 Advice for University Leaders on AI Adoption

Recommended Reading:
https://refusinggenai.wordpress.com/

Find Dr Jenae Cohn here:
LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenae-cohn/
UC Berkley
https://www.berkeley.edu/
And her books:
Skim, Dive, Surface: Teaching Digital Reading
https://www.amazon.com/Skim-Dive-Surface-Teaching-Education/dp/1952271045/
Design for Learning: User Experience in Online Teaching and Learning
https://www.amazon.com/Design-Learning-Experience-Online-Teaching-ebook/dp/B0C9261296/

And find EdTech Connect here:
Web:https://edtechconnect.com/
...more
31min
January 24, 2025Ep. 19 - Jeff Saville: Tech Wisdom Beyond University Walls
Jeff Saville discusses his journey in workforce development and career services, emphasizing the importance of empowering students through innovative programs and technology. He shares insights on leveraging AI and other tools to enhance career readiness and the challenges faced by higher education institutions in adapting to the rapidly changing job market. The discussion also covers practical advice for students seeking jobs and the future of education in the context of technological advancements. Takeaways
Jeff Saville's passion for empowering individuals began with his entrepreneurial background.
NAU Venture Studios aims to incubate student-led solutions to real-world problems.
Technology plays a crucial role in enhancing workforce development initiatives.
AI agents can help students stay informed about job opportunities.
Focusing on student experience is essential for higher education institutions.
Building prototypes can help drive innovation in career services.
LinkedIn is a powerful tool for networking and job searching.
There is a widening gap between higher education and industry needs.
AI can streamline administrative tasks in educational institutions.
The future of education will be shaped by technology and student-centered approaches.
Chapters 00:00Introduction to Jeff Saville and His Journey 05:47Leveraging Technology for Workforce Initiatives 11:53Building a Prototype for Career Development 17:55Advice for Navigating Higher Education Challenges 24:00The Role of AI in Higher Education 30:02Closing Thoughts and Future Predictions Links NAU: https://nau.edu Jeff Saville LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffsaville1/
...more
34min
January 17, 2025Ep. 18 - Teri Abbo-Sutherland: Micro Credentials: Navigating the Future of Work
Teri Abbo-Sutherland, Director of Executive Programs Oakland University, is rewriting the rules of professional development. Her breakthrough insights argue that micro credentials—bite-sized, skill-specific certifications—are becoming the new currency of career advancement.
Traditional four-year degrees are no longer enough, Sutherland contends. In an age of accelerating technological change, professionals must continuously retool their skills or risk becoming professionally obsolete. Digital badges and micro credentials offer a nimble alternative: targeted learning that can be quickly acquired and immediately applied.
For tech workers especially, these compact credentials serve as dynamic proof of expertise, allowing individuals to signal their most current capabilities to employers. They represent more than paper qualifications—they're real-time indicators of a professional's commitment to staying relevant.
Sutherland challenges corporate leaders to embrace this new learning ecosystem, arguing that organizations must foster cultures of continuous innovation and skill development. Her message is clear: In today's job market, adaptability isn't just an asset—it's a survival strategy.

Takeaways
Micro credentials are essential for staying relevant in technology.
Upskilling is crucial as skills can become obsolete quickly.
Corporate training budgets often cut professional development first.
Micro credentials can lead to specialized skills and career advancement.
Employers should recognize the value of experience in their workforce.
A toolkit can help employers integrate micro credentials into talent management.
Understanding employee motivation is key to effective upskilling.
Higher education is rapidly adopting micro credentialing solutions.
Digital badges can serve as public resumes on platforms like LinkedIn.
Leadership buy-in is critical for fostering a culture of innovation.

Chapters
(00:00) Introduction to Micro Credentials and Digital Badges
(07:16) Toolkit for Employers: Enhancing Talent Management
(13:52) Bundling Micro Credentials for Career Advancement
(19:30) Key Takeaways on Micro Credentials

Links
Executive Education Programs at Oakland University
https://www.oakland.edu/business/graduate-executive-programs/executive-education-programs/
Teri Abbo-Sutherland on LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/teri-abbo-sutherland-7225bb9/
International Council for Open & Distance Education: https://www.icde.org/knowledge-centre
EdTech Connect: https://edtechconnect.com/
...more
26min
January 10, 2025Ep. 17 - Nick Burrell: Exploring AI and Content Quality
In this episode, Jeff Dillon is joined by Nick Burrell, VP of Strategic Partnerships at ZogoTech, a company specializing in data analytics solutions designed to empower higher education.
With a wealth of expertise in educational technology and artificial intelligence, Nick shares his insights on the evolving role of AI in education, particularly in content management and student engagement. He discusses his journey from working in college financial aid offices to his current role at ZogoTech, and how his experience has shaped his understanding of the challenges and opportunities in education.
Nick dives into how AI is transforming student engagement and institutional growth, and explains how content quality directly impacts the effectiveness of AI tools. He also reflects on the importance of digital governance, the need for accurate and reliable content management, and the role of AI in providing personalized responses to students.
He also shares his thoughts on the future of AI in education, including the need for institutions to be "AI-ready" and the importance of strategic planning and policy development in preparing for an AI-driven future. Whether you're an educator, administrator, or edtech professional, Nick's insights on the intersection of AI and education are sure to inform and inspire.

Takeaways
AI is transforming student engagement and institutional growth.
Content quality directly impacts the effectiveness of AI tools.
Institutions must prioritize accurate and reliable content management.
Digital governance is essential for effective content oversight.
AI tools should be integrated with existing systems for personalized responses.
A thorough website audit is crucial for maintaining content accuracy.
Collaboration with subject matter experts can enhance content management.
AI adoption requires a foundational understanding of institutional needs.
The website should be treated as a dynamic knowledge base.
Preparing for AI involves strategic planning and policy development.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to AI in Education
05:40 Content Quality and AI Tools
11:47 Ensuring Accurate and Reliable Content
17:07 Digital Governance in Content Management
30:03 Preparing for an AI-Ready Campus

Links
Nick on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-burrell-9a2025b3/
Zototech on EdTech Connect: https://edtechconnect.com/software/organizational-effectiveness/zogotech/1387/?resultIds=1387
Zogotech Website: https://zogotech.com/
...more
33min
January 03, 2025Ep. 16 - Josh Koenig: Building the Future of Higher Ed Websites
In this episode, Jeff Dillon is joined by Josh Koenig, Co-Founder and Chief Strategy Officer of Pantheon, a WebOps platform transforming how website teams deliver exceptional digital experiences.
With over two decades of experience in web development and online engagement, Josh shares his incredible journey—from his early days building political campaign platforms like DeanSpace for Howard Dean’s 2004 presidential run to co-founding Chapter Three and ultimately Pantheon.
Josh dives into how Pantheon grew to become a leading WebOps platform, particularly excelling in the higher education sector, and explains how the company’s “productization” of consulting expertise addressed key challenges in web development collaboration and scalability. We discuss how his transition from Head of Product to Chief Strategy Officer allows him to focus on big-picture strategies that align with industry trends and customer needs.
He also reflects on how web development has evolved over the years, offering key insights into the future of WebOps in higher education and beyond. Whether you’re a seasoned developer or just starting out, Josh’s lessons on leadership, innovation, and navigating complex digital ecosystems are sure to inspire.
Guest Profile
Josh Koenig Position: Co-Founder and Chief Strategy Officer, Pantheon
Over 20 years in web development
Founder of DeanSpace (Howard Dean 2004 campaign)
Co-founder of Chapter Three
WebOps innovation leader
Key Insights
Transformation of web development consulting into product
WebOps platform specialization in higher education
Evolution of digital experience platforms
Transition from product leadership to strategic leadership
Critical Observations
Web development landscape constantly evolving
Higher education requires specialized digital solutions
Consulting expertise can be productized
Technology collaboration needs innovative approaches
Strategic Insights
Pantheon's approach to solving web development challenges
Scaling web technologies for complex institutional needs
Bridging gap between consulting and product development
Future-proofing digital experience platforms
Episode Chapters
00:00 - Introduction to Josh Koenig
03:00 - Consulting to Product Transformation
07:13 - Higher Education Web Platform Challenges
12:26 - Digital Experience Platforms Overview
16:09 - From Political Campaigns to Startup World
19:35 - Defining "Productization"
24:40 - WebOps Outsourcing Benefits
29:24 - Career Advice for Web Professionals
Key Takeaways
WebOps is revolutionizing digital experiences
Strategic adaptability is crucial in tech leadership
Specialized platforms can solve complex digital challenges
Continuous learning is essential in web development
Links
Pantheon Website: www.pantheon.io
Josh Koenig LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshkoenig/
Pantheon on EdTech Connect: https://edtechconnect.com/software/digital-experience-accessibility/pantheon/1394/
...more
34min
December 20, 2024Ep. 15 - Justin Menard: Using Data to Chart the Future of EdTech
In this conversation, Justin Menard, CEO of ListEdTech, shares his extensive experience in educational technology and the evolution of data usage in higher education. He discusses the importance of data in decision-making for institutions and vendors, the challenges of categorizing educational technology, and the impact of AI on the industry. Justin emphasizes the value of peer insights in tech adoption and highlights common pitfalls institutions face when selecting technology solutions.
Guest Profile
Name: Justin Menard
Position: CEO of ListEdTech
Experience: Over 20 years in educational technology
Key Insights
Comprehensive exploration of data usage in higher education
Global perspective shaped by international travel
In-depth understanding of educational technology market dynamics
Critical Observations
Data is a fundamental tool for simplifying institutional decision-making
Educational technology categories are continuously evolving
AI is dramatically transforming the educational technology landscape
Strategic Highlights
ListEdTech's role in providing comprehensive higher education system data
Supporting vendors in identifying potential clients and market trends
Emphasizing the importance of peer insights in technology adoption
Technological Challenges
Maintaining data accuracy in a rapidly changing educational technology market
Navigating complex technology categorizations
Helping institutions avoid common pitfalls in technology selection
Episode Chapters
00:00 - Introduction to Justin Menard and ListEdTech
08:42 - EDUCAUSE and Market Trends Insights
19:13 - Navigating EdTech Categories
25:31 - AI's Impact on Higher Education Technology
Key Takeaways
Peer insights are crucial in technology adoption
Data-driven decision-making is essential
AI is reshaping educational technology approaches
Links
Justin Menard LinkedIn
ListEdTech website
ListEdTech on EdTech Connect
EdTech Connect website
...more
29min

FAQs about The Signal:

How many episodes does The Signal have?

The podcast currently has 104 episodes available.