This summer series of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast is proudly sponsored by NextGrad.NextGrad helps colleges and universities reach students where they already are, inside the high school itself. With a network of over 2,500 schools across North America, NextGrad puts your institution's message in front of future students every single day. Be the school they remember when it's time to decide.NextGrad.com — Where students see you first.___As technology continues to transform how students search for colleges, trust has become higher education's greatest competitive advantage. Derek Riordan, Digital Marketing Strategist at Southeast Missouri State University, shares how institutions can build authentic brand influence through strategic storytelling, AI-ready content, and meaningful student experiences that earn confidence long before application season.___🎧 What We Cover in This Episode🔘Why trust is becoming the foundation of higher education marketing🔘How early brand influence shapes enrollment decisions years before students apply🔘The growing role of AI, SEO, and Answer Engine Optimization in college search🔘Why storytelling and student outcomes must work together to strengthen enrollment marketing🔘Practical strategies for creating authentic campaigns that resonate with students, parents, and AI search tools___🎙️ Episode Highlights01:10 Why universities must build trust in an AI-driven enrollment environment11:32 How SEMO is preparing for AI search with SEO-focused content and blogs13:55 Creating highly specific content that matches how students search with AI15:20 Using AI as a productivity tool without sacrificing authentic human connection25:38 Why authentic student experiences must match institutional marketing promises27:21 Derek's advice for enrollment marketers, build brand awareness early and create integrated campaigns___The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast is powered by Caylor Solutions—your go-to partner for higher ed mission-fit marketing strategies, enrollment, AI expertise, and branding needs. 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 proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

This summer series of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast is proudly sponsored by NextGrad.NextGrad helps colleges and universities reach students where they already are, inside the high school itself. With a network of over 2,500 schools across North America, NextGrad puts your institution's message in front of future students every single day. Be the school they remember when it's time to decide.NextGrad.com — Where students see you first.___Higher education has no shortage of great stories, but too many institutions struggle to tell them in ways that capture attention and build long-term trust. Dave Murray, Executive Director of Marketing and Communications at Ferris State University, shares how his career as a press secretary and journalist shaped a newsroom mindset that has transformed how Ferris communicates with prospective students, alumni, and the media. From creating one newsworthy story every day to building authentic relationships with reporters, Dave explains why consistent storytelling is one of the most powerful enrollment and reputation strategies an institution can adopt.___What We Cover in This Episode🔘Why higher education should think like a newsroom instead of a press office.🔘How daily storytelling strengthens institutional reputation over time.🔘The role of photography, human interest, and career outcomes in effective storytelling.🔘How NextGrad and other marketing channels reinforce earned media and enrollment success.___Episode Highlights08:20 The newsroom formula for stories reporters will publish13:55 Why one quality story every day changes institutional visibility19:10 Building reputation before a crisis happens22:05 Connecting storytelling, enrollment marketing, and the NextGrad strategy26:10 Building trusted relationships with local media29:20 Why the best stories happen outside your office___The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast is powered by Caylor Solutions—your go-to partner for higher ed mission-fit marketing strategies, enrollment, AI expertise, and branding needs. 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 proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

This summer series of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast is proudly sponsored by NextGrad.NextGrad helps colleges and universities reach students where they already are, inside the high school itself. With a network of over 2,500 schools across North America, NextGrad puts your institution's message in front of future students every single day. Be the school they remember when it's time to decide.Nextgrad.com — Where students see you first.__What if the biggest opportunity to influence prospective students happens long before they ever become an inquiry? Harrison “Soup” Campbell, Chief Growth Officer at NextGrad, joins us to discuss why colleges and universities need to rethink traditional enrollment marketing strategies. Drawing on his experience in admissions leadership and his new executive role at NextGrad, Soup explains why building brand awareness inside high schools is becoming one of the most effective ways to connect with future students.___What We Cover in This Episode🔘Why colleges should begin building relationships with students well before their junior and senior years.🔘How in-school media is creating new opportunities for authentic brand awareness.🔘Why digital marketing alone is no longer enough in an AI-driven landscape.🔘How NextGrad helps colleges reach students where they spend their time every day.🔘Practical Advice for building a long-term enrollment marketing strategy.___Episode Highlights01:15 - Soup shares his unconventional journey from educator to higher education leader.08:00 - Why colleges need to prioritize awareness before the inquiry stage.11:20 - Research showing how early brand awareness influences college applications.16:00 - How NextGrad's in-school media network helps colleges reach students every day.19:00 - Why high schools remain one of the most valuable environments for student engagement.22:15 -  The growing impact of AI on digital advertising and why marketers should diversify their outreach.___The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast is powered by Caylor Solutions—your go-to partner for higher ed mission-fit marketing strategies, enrollment, AI expertise, and branding needs. 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 proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

This summer series of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast is proudly sponsored by NextGrad.NextGrad helps colleges and universities reach students where they already are, inside the high school itself. With a network of over 2,500 schools across North America, NextGrad puts your institution's message in front of future students every single day. Be the school they remember when it's time to decide.Nextgrad.com — Where students see you first.___The Higher Ed Marketer community has reached an incredible milestone, 250 podcast episodes and more than 125,000 downloads. In this special update, Zach Coffin celebrates the people who have made the podcast possible while sharing an exciting look ahead at what's coming this summer and fall. From a sneak peek at NextGrad's upcoming summer series to new resources tailored for higher education leadership, this episode offers a look ahead at the future of The Higher Ed Marketer. Join us as we share an exciting preview.___What We Cover in This Episode🔘 Celebrating 250 podcast episodes and 125,000 downloads.🔘A preview of the upcoming NextGrad Summer Series.🔘How NextGrad is helping institutions reach prospective students inside high schools.🔘A first look at a brand new Higher Ed Marketer podcast launching this fall.🔘An introduction to an upcoming Higher Ed Press book focused on institutional renewal and leadership.___The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast is powered by Caylor Solutions—your go-to partner for higher ed mission-fit marketing strategies, enrollment, AI expertise, and website needs. 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 proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Faith Leaders Mini-Series - Episode 252 (4 of 4)In this special mini-series, Bart Caylor explores the intersection of faith and higher education through conversations with influential Christian university leaders from across the country. Recorded live at the 2026 CCCU International Forum.___Dr. Drew Flamm, President of Grace College and Grace Theological Seminary, shares how Grace is leaning into execution, team dynamics, and the distinct identity of Winona Lake, Indiana, to build enrollment momentum. From reducing unnecessary meetings to using technology for human connection, Drew offers a practical look at how Christian colleges can stop chasing sameness and start making their local context a core part of their brand.___What We Cover in This Episode🔘Why execution matters just as much as strategy in enrollment growth.🔘How creative marketing and operational discipline can strengthen each other.🔘Why local community engagement can become a powerful differentiator.🔘How technology can free teams to focus on human connection.🔘What strong cabinet teams do to better support the president and institutional goals.___ Episode Highlights02:30 - Drew’s journey from advancement and enrollment to the presidency06:10 - How execution, planning, and the right people are driving enrollment growth09:20 - Selling what is unique instead of trying to attract everyone16:10 - Using technology to protect meaningful human connection18:40 - How Grace moved from town-and-gown distance to community partnership26:10 -  Centers of excellence and research that creates local impact30:20 - How cabinet leaders can best support their president___The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast is powered by Caylor Solutions—your go-to partner for higher ed mission-fit marketing strategies, enrollment, AI expertise, and branding needs. 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 proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Faith Leaders Mini-Series - Episode 251 (3 of 4)In this special mini-series, Bart Caylor explores the intersection of faith and higher education through conversations with influential Christian university leaders from across the country. Recorded live at the CCCU International Forum, each episode highlights how faith-driven leadership is shaping the future of higher education.___Phil Cook, President of Lee University, shares what it has been like returning to his alma mater to serve in the presidency after years of enrollment leadership and national service in Christian higher education. From his “Presidential Uber” golf cart rides to conversations about mission clarity and spiritual hunger among today’s students, Phil offers a candid look at leadership rooted in authenticity, calling, and deep care for students.___What We Cover in This Episode🔘Why mission clarity is essential for thriving Christian institutions.🔘How authentic leadership builds trust with students and campus communities.🔘Why today’s students are hungry for genuine spiritual formation.🔘The role enrollment leadership plays in presidential leadership.🔘How storytelling and visibility can strengthen Christian higher education.___Episode Highlights02:15 - Returning to lead your alma mater and navigating presidential transition06:40 - The story behind Lee University’s “Presidential Uber”11:05 - Why authentic leadership matters more than performative leadership14:18 - Bringing enrollment passion and student focus into the presidency19:10 - How podcasting and storytelling help strengthen institutional visibility23:42 - Why students are hungry for authentic spiritual formation27:15 - Mission clarity, message consistency, and thriving institutions31:20 - Leadership advice on handling difficult decisions with conviction and grace___The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast is powered by Caylor Solutions—your go-to partner for higher ed mission-fit marketing strategies, enrollment, AI expertise, and branding needs. 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 proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Faith Leaders Mini-Series - Episode 250 (2 of 4)In this special mini-series, Bart Caylor explores the intersection of faith and higher education through conversations with influential Christian university leaders from across the country. Recorded live at the 2026 CCCU International Forum.___This week they are joined by Jason Cook, Vice President for Marketing and Communications and Chief Marketing Officer at Baylor University. Jason shares how Baylor is building a distinctive brand through authentic storytelling, alumni engagement, community partnership, and intentional differentiation in an increasingly competitive higher education landscape.___What We Cover in This Episode🔘Why authentic alumni stories are one of higher education’s most powerful marketing tools.🔘How institutions can differentiate themselves instead of blending into rankings-driven sameness.🔘The importance of intentionality in higher ed marketing and storytelling🔘How Baylor is helping shape the cultural identity and momentum of Waco, Texas.🔘Why brand clarity matters more than ever during the enrollment cliff.___Episode Highlights02:10 - How alumni shape brand perception through authenticity and outcomes05:30 -  Finding and activating alumni stories through intentional storytelling08:40 - Balancing nostalgia with forward-looking student engagement12:05 - Why rankings can push institutions toward sameness15:18 - Building brand differentiation through clear institutional identity29:15 - Lessons for institutions of every size to influence their communities___The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast is powered by Caylor Solutions—your go-to partner for higher ed mission-fit marketing strategies, enrollment, AI expertise, and branding needs. 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 proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Faith Leaders Mini-Series - Episode 249 (1 of 4)In this special mini-series, Bart Caylor explores the intersection of faith and higher education through conversations with influential Christian university leaders from across the country. Recorded live at the 2026 CCCU International Forum, each episode highlights how faith-driven leadership is shaping the future of higher education during a season of rapid change and innovation.___Christian higher education is navigating rapid cultural shifts, technological disruption, and growing pressure to stand apart in a crowded marketplace. Dr. Adam Wright, President of Dallas Baptist University, shares how DBU is embracing a mission-first approach rooted in authentic faith, intentional leadership, and a commitment to prayer. From creating a distinctive student experience to leveraging technology and AI for meaningful connection, this conversation offers practical insight for leaders seeking clarity and conviction in a changing higher education landscape.___What We Cover in This Episode🔘 Why distinctiveness matters more than ever in higher education marketing🔘 How DBU integrates faith into scholarships, recruitment and campus culture. 🔘 Using technology, video and AI to strengthen student connection and communication.🔘 Why prayer remains central to leadership and institutional decision-making. 🔘 How leaders can focus on priorities instead of chasing balance. ___Episode Highlights01:46 -  Building a distinctive and mission-driven university identity04:55 - Telling an authentic story through marketing and digital communication08:47 -  Leveraging AI and multilingual video for global student outreach10:30 -  Operationalizing prayer across the university community14:41 -  Leadership advice on wisdom, priorities, and spiritual focus___The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast is powered by Caylor Solutions—your go-to partner for higher ed mission-fit marketing strategies, enrollment, AI expertise, and branding needs. 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 proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

One of The Higher Ed Marketer's most anticipated annual series is back. In this special summer preview, Zach Coffin shares what listeners can expect from the 2026 Faithful Leaders Series, recorded live at the CCCU International Forum in Dallas. This year's series explores leadership, institutional clarity, enrollment challenges, and the unique opportunities facing Christian higher education today.Zach also celebrates a major milestone for the Higher Ed Marketer community and offers a look ahead at additional summer programming designed to equip higher education professionals before the fall season begins. Whether you're planning strategy, preparing for recruitment season, or simply looking for leadership inspiration, this preview offers a glimpse of what's ahead.___What We Cover in This Episode🔘A preview of the 2026 Faithful Leaders Series🔘The higher education leaders featured throughout the series🔘An introduction to the upcoming NextGrad Summer Series🔘Encouragement for marketers and campus leaders heading into the fall___Episode Highlights01:02 – Celebrating Bart Caylor's Amazon #1 bestseller achievement02:17 – Announcing the return of the Faithful Leaders Series02:50 – Behind the scenes from the CCCU International Forum in Dallas03:06 – Meet this year's Faith Leaders guests03:48 – Preview of the NextGrad Summer Series04:25 – Summer encouragement for higher education professionals___The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast is powered by Caylor Solutions—your go-to partner for higher ed mission-fit marketing strategies, enrollment, AI expertise, and branding needs. 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 proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Zach Coffin is excited to share some big news with you as The Higher Ed Marketer approaches its 250th episode! We celebrate our co-host Troy Singer and his transition into a new industry. Troy, you will be deeply missed and we are forever grateful for you. There are big plans for The Higher Ed Marketer this summer including the return of the beloved Faith Leaders series. The Higher Ed Marketer Network is adding a brand new show and The Higher Ed Marketer Press will be releasing a brand new book very soon.With deep gratitude for everything we've built together and clarity about the future, we invite you to hear about the continued momentum of our network and community. Thank you for being a part of this journey as we remain committed to serving higher ed well.___What We Cover in This Episode🔘The journey to 250 episodes and what it represents for the community🔘Honoring Troy Singer’s impact and leadership transition🔘The return of the Faith Leaders series and summer content lineup🔘 A new podcast launching within The Higher Ed Marketer Network🔘Expansion of The Higher Ed Press with an upcoming book release___The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast is powered by Caylor Solutions—your go-to partner for higher ed mission-fit marketing strategies, enrollment, AI expertise, and branding needs. 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 proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.