In this episode of “The DINFOS Way,” host Jack Rous sits down with instructor Shelby Kay-Fantozzi to explore how the Intermediate Public Affairs Specialist Course prepares military communicators for the next level of responsibility. Shelby, a former Air Force public affairs professional and award-winning DINFOS instructor, shares how she builds confident, critical-thinking PA leaders in the classroom. From sharpening media literacy and messaging skills to coaching students through real-world scenarios, she breaks down what makes IPASC unique in the DOW training pipeline and what students can expect when they walk through the door.

What does it really mean to represent yourself and the military online? In this episode of The DINFOS Way, host Jack Rous sits down with Army Capt. Angelena Garland to talk about navigating life as both a service member and a social media influencer. From understanding policy and protecting operational security to maintaining authenticity without crossing the line, Capt. Garland shares real-world insight on how to build a presence online while staying compliant and professional. If you have ever wondered what you can and cannot post, this episode breaks it down in a way every military communicator can apply.

In this episode of The DINFOS Way podcast, “Focus & Flash: Mastering the Studio for Mission Success,” host Jack Rous sits down with Justin Pyle, a seasoned DINFOS instructor and retired Air Force master sergeant with more than two decades of photojournalism experience. Pyle, who has taught at the Defense Information School since 2008, shares his expertise in studio photography, explaining how establishing the right lighting environment and mastering technical skills contribute to mission success for military communicators. Together, they explore what studio photography looks like at DINFOS, how students sharpen their craft behind the lens, and why understanding the fundamentals of light and composition remains essential to visual storytelling in defense communication.

In this episode of The DINFOS Way, host Jack Rous sits down with master photojournalist Johnny Bivera to explore his decades-long career in visual storytelling across military and civilian arenas. Bivera reflects on his time in the U.S. Navy and his work documenting combat, humanitarian missions and high-level events, sharing what he learned about telling powerful stories through imagery. He also explains the origin and purpose of the DC Shoot Off Visual Media Workshops, an all-volunteer, not-for-profit educational program that helps military and civil service photographers sharpen their craft. Throughout the conversation, Bivera offers practical tips, techniques and perspective for today’s warfighting communicators, giving listeners ideas they can apply to their own visual storytelling.

In this episode of “The DINFOS Way,” host Jack Rous sits down with U.S. Air Force broadcaster and former DINFOS instructor Staff Sgt. Sarah Brice to bridge the gap between traditional public affairs and the modern creator economy. Brice shares how she balances life as a military communicator and professional cosplayer, and how foundational skills taught at DINFOS still drive engagement in today’s social media feeds. Listeners will hear practical tips for building authentic digital communities, understanding platform algorithms, handling negativity and turning short-form content into a force multiplier for their units. Whether you run a one-person public affairs shop or manage a large team, this episode offers actionable strategies to strengthen your unit’s online presence and connect with audiences who scroll first and ask questions later.

Award-winning cinematographer Drew Geraci, known for his stunning time-lapse work featured in productions like House of Cards, joins The DINFOS Way to share how he turned his passion for visual storytelling into a thriving career. From capturing time-lapse masterpieces to exploring the creative potential of AI, Geraci reveals his process, mindset, and advice for storytellers who want to push creative boundaries.

Step into the creative side of military communication in this episode of The DINFOS Way as graphic designer and DINFOS instructor Kate Cornell unpacks how design thinking, visual storytelling and fundamentals of layout, color and typography shape the way audiences receive information. From classroom to operational environments, Kate shares practical insights on collaborating with communicators, critiquing work with purpose and using design to support the mission, giving current and future military communicators tools they can apply on their very next product. Whether you are a new student, a seasoned PAO or a leader guiding creative teams, this conversation highlights how thoughtful design can amplify your message and better prepare tomorrow’s communicators for an evolving information environment.

Step into a career-defining conversation on this episode of The DINFOS Way, as host Jack Rous sits down with Dr. Joseph “Joe” Trahan, a DINFOS graduate, retired Army Reserve lieutenant colonel and 2025 DINFOS Hall of Fame inductee to talk about what it takes to leave a lasting mark on the profession. With more than four decades of experience in uniform and as a trainer, Trahan has led public affairs teams, built media relations and crisis communication programs, and mentored thousands of communicators across the force. He reflects on the moments that shaped his journey, the evolution of military public affairs and the skills today’s communicators need to succeed, including credibility, adaptability and clear, purposeful storytelling in a demanding information environment.

Experience mission-driven storytelling with Staff Sgt. Laura Martin. Drawing on 17 years of experience in roles from radio DJ to broadcast producer, Martin shares actionable strategies for creating compelling narratives. Listen in as she discusses her journey as a DINFOS Intermediate Multimedia Course instructor while guiding communicators in mastering both narrative and non-narrative techniques. Explore practical lessons in building impactful stories, visual information, and multimedia methods, all woven together as this episode highlights how collaboration, creativity, and technology drive communication across multiple channels.

Join us on The DINFOS Way Podcast as we chat with Baltimore Orioles broadcaster Melanie Newman! We delve into her inspiring career journey, broadcasting insights, and invaluable advice for aspiring communicators. Melanie shares her experiences, tips and tricks, and thoughts on the evolving communications landscape, offering a unique perspective for those looking to excel in the field.