Podcast
The Higher Ed Marketer
Hosted by Caylor Solutions · EN
The Higher Ed Marketer is centered around marketing professionals in the field of higher education. If you’re looking for real, practical advice on how to level up your marketing game, this is the show for you. Each episode features conversations with some of the best and brightest marketing minds in higher education, discussing the future of marketing, new technologies, and so much more.
Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
10episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
NextGrad Summer Series Preview
1w ago00:05:20Tap to summarizeThis 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.
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Being Distinct in a Crowded Market
2w ago00:19:36Tap to summarizeFaith 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.
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Becoming President of Your Alma Mater
3w ago00:17:06Tap to summarizeFaith 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.
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The Future of Higher Ed Branding, Authenticity and Alumni Stories
4w ago00:20:31Tap to summarizeFaith 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.
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Leading with Priorities, Prayer, and Mission Clarity
Jun 900:17:04Tap to summarizeFaith 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.
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A Summer Preview of the 2026 Faithful Leaders Series
Jun 200:05:24Tap to summarizeOne 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.
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Big Announcements about the Summer
Apr 2100:06:29Tap to summarizeZach 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.
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Breaking Silos: Aligning Academics, Enrollment, and Innovation
Apr 1400:34:21Tap to summarizeSilos are one of the biggest barriers to growth in higher education, yet they persist across academics, enrollment, and marketing. Dale Lemke, Vice President of Academic Affairs at Tabor College, brings a refreshing, collaborative perspective shaped by experience in both faculty and leadership roles. He shares how institutions can move from isolation to alignment by fostering intentional relationships, embracing shared ownership, and staying anchored to mission while navigating change.___What We Cover in This Episode🔘 Breaking down silos between academics, enrollment, and marketing🔘 Why faculty should adopt a learner mindset across departments🔘 How to evaluate and evolve academic program portfolios🔘 The human side of making difficult program decisions🔘 Creating space for innovation while staying mission-aligned---Episode Highlights02:50 – From faculty to collaborator, shifting perspective on enrollment and marketing07:05 – Why silos exist and how leaders can begin bridging the gap12:09 – What healthy collaboration actually looks like across teams16:12 – Why market demand must shape academic offerings22:58 – Navigating AI in the classroom and institutional strategy26:16 – How marketing and enrollment can influence what gets built next29:06 – A simple but powerful step to start collaborating today___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.
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Why Higher Ed Leaders Must Think Like CEOs
Apr 700:31:11Tap to summarizeDeep Gratitude for Troy Singer: Bart has an important announcement. Our beloved co-host Troy Singer is stepping into a new opportunity after nearly six years and almost 250 episodes of co-hosting The Higher Ed Marketer podcast. Bart and the entire team at The Higher Ed Marketer are beyond grateful for Troy and wish him the very best. ___Special Fan Favorite Episode: In this reply conversation, Eric Hogue, President of Colorado Christian University, offers a bold perspective on leadership that challenges traditional thinking and calls institutions to rethink how they operate, fund their mission, and prepare for what’s ahead as financial pressures continue to rise.___What We Cover in This Episode🔘Why adopting a CEO mindset is critical for institutional survival🔘The role of net tuition revenue in long-term sustainability🔘How to approach donor relationships as strategic partnerships🔘Building a multi-year strategy for growth and innovation🔘Creating a distinct institutional identity that attracts the right students and supporters___Episode Highlights--Why higher ed presidents must think like CEOs--A donor-centric approach that prioritizes input over asking--A three-part strategy for sustainable growth--Where transformation starts, aligning with your board chair--The power of building relationships, not just networksThe 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.
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Launching a Brand New Website While Being New To Higher Education
Mar 3100:37:44Tap to summarizeWhat happens when a university website becomes a cluttered “junk drawer” instead of a clear, welcoming first impression? Paul Garner, Executive Director of Marketing and Communications at Western Carolina University, shares how his team transformed a confusing, overloaded website into a true digital front door that reflects the student experience and institutional story. This conversation unpacks how thoughtful leadership, trust, and alignment can turn a fragmented digital presence into something purposeful, intuitive, and mission-driven.___What We Cover in This Episode🔘 Why "attention is king" in modern higher ed marketing🔘 Lessons from transitioning into higher ed from the private sector🔘 Building trust across campus before launching major iniatives🔘Navigating website redesigns as change management, not just tech projects🔘 How to align stakeholders around a student-first digital experience.___Episode Highlights02:03 – Transitioning into higher ed and culture shock07:20 – Building trust through presence and authenticity10:06 – Why the website redesign was necessary12:00 – The real challenge, people not technology13:30 – Creating buy-in across campus stakeholders15:35 – Moving to a student-first website strategy22:00 – Leadership growth during major transitions24:30 – Post-launch challenges and holding the line___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.
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