Best Bart Caylor Podcasts (2025)

When Dr. Dr. Amy Bragg Carey stepped into her role as president of Friends University, the institution was facing financial instability, mission drift, and uncertainty about its identity in Christian higher ed. Nearly a decade later, Friends has achieved record enrollment and reclaimed its Christian mission with clarity and confidence. In this epis…

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Leading Consistent Brand Strategy Across 19 Campuses 39:05

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16d ago39:05

39:05

How do you manage and elevate a brand across 19 campuses serving more than 200,000 students? In this episode, Kathie Fleck of Ivy Tech Community College shares how her team is building brand consistency across one of the largest community college systems in the country. From messaging and segmentation to staff mentorship and innovation, Kathie unpa…

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Turning Your Website Into a Recruitment Powerhouse 46:17

23d ago46:17

46:17

When Kesha Boyce Williams joined USC Upstate, she inherited an eight-year dream deferred: a much-needed website redesign. But rather than treat it as a technical update, she led with strategy, relationship-building, and storytelling to turn the university’s website into a true enrollment driver. In this episode, Kesha shares how strategic leadershi…

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Leading a University Rebrand with Purpose 49:48

1M ago49:48

49:48

What does it take to lead a beloved institution through a name change without alienating stakeholders or losing sight of your values? In this episode, Dr. Mark Milioni, President of Mission University (formerly Baptist Bible College), shares the deeply intentional and strategic process behind one of higher ed’s most thoughtful rebrands. Dr. Milioni…

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Big Celebration and a Sneak Peep into Season 7 3:41

1M ago3:41

3:41

Fall is here and that means another great season of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast. Sneak Peak into Season 7 50,000+ downloads...WHAT?!?!? Thank you for helping shape this community. Next week - Season 7 Launched. The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast is powered by Caylor Solutions—your go-to partner for higher ed mission-fit marketing strategies, enrollm…

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Your Students Will Tell You Everything: Power Your Innovation by Listening 48:00

1M ago48:00

48:00

This is the final episode of our Enrollment Rx: Strategies to Fill Your Funnel, a four-part series focused on diagnosing and treating common enrollment pipeline challenges. As fall reveals how well your funnel is performing, we’ll help you optimize lead generation, nurture flows, and student engagement. Tune in for essential tactics and insights to…

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Putting AI Tools to Work for Your Marketing Team 47:17

2M ago47:17

47:17

This episode is number three in our Enrollment Rx: Strategies to Fill Your Funnel, a four-part series focused on diagnosing and treating common enrollment pipeline challenges. As fall reveals how well your funnel is performing, we’ll help you optimize lead generation, nurture flows, and student engagement. Tune in for essential tactics and insights…

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How to Leverage Student-Produced, Authentic Content 27:36

2M ago27:36

27:36

This episode (2 of 4) is part of Enrollment Rx: Strategies to Fill Your Funnel, a four-part series focused on diagnosing and treating common enrollment pipeline challenges. As fall reveals how well your funnel is performing, we’ll help you optimize lead generation, nurture flows, and student engagement. Tune in for essential tactics and insights to…

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Speak With One Voice: Getting Students Involved in Enrollment Marketing 37:25

2M ago37:25

37:25

This episode (1 of 4) is part of Enrollment Rx: Strategies to Fill Your Funnel, a four-part series focused on diagnosing and treating common enrollment pipeline challenges. As fall reveals how well your funnel is performing, we’ll help you optimize lead generation, nurture flows, and student engagement. Tune in for essential tactics and insights to…

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Scaling Connection: How Indiana University Builds Community Before Day One 40:30

2M ago40:30

40:30

Episode 213 ZeeMeeSummer Series - Week 4 of 4 In this episode, we talk with Sacha Thieme, Associate Vice Chancellor and Executive Director of Admissions at Indiana University Bloomington. Sacha shares how her team is rethinking student engagement long before day one on campus. From building community at scale to partnering across departments like F…

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Why Community is the New Conversion Tool in Higher Ed Marketing 33:45

3M ago33:45

33:45

ZeeMee Summer Series - Week 3 of 4 Building community is your new enrollment strategy. In this episode, Bart Caylor sits down with Vanessa Didyk, CEO of ZeeMee, to explore how student-driven community is transforming the enrollment funnel. Vanessa shares the story behind ZeeMee’s evolution and why today’s students crave authentic peer connections l…

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Flipping the Funnel: How Direct Admissions is Redefining Enrollment Strategy 36:10

3M ago36:10

36:10

ZeeMeeSummer Series - Week 2 Episode 211 Dr. James Steen, Vice President for Enrollment Management and Marketing at Houston Christian University, shares how his team is flipping the traditional admissions funnel on its head. We discuss the challenges facing enrollment leaders today, and why HCU launched a bold Guaranteed Admission Program to simpli…

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Stop the Melt: Enrollment Innovation 49:55

3M ago49:55

49:55

Welcome to the ZeeMeeSummer Series! Episode 210 In this episode of The Higher Ed Marketer, Dr. Jay Jacobs, Vice Provost for Enrollment Management at the University of Vermont, shares how bold innovation and cross-campus collaboration are transforming the student journey. From launching the Vermont Pitch Challenge to building internal talent through…

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Hot Topics, Cool Guests: What's Happening this Summer Around The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast 2:30

3M ago2:30

2:30

The Higher Ed Marketer is heating things up this summer with a special series you won’t want to miss. Powered by our friends at ZeeMee! We’re bringing you four fresh episodes featuring standout voices in higher ed: Jay Jacobs (University of Vermont), James Steen (Houston Christian University), Sacha Thieme (Indiana University Bloomington), and ZeeM…

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Building Spiritual Infrastructure: Minder of the Mission 37:29

4M ago37:29

37:29

The Faith Leaders Mini-Series - Episode 209 (4 of 4) In the last episode of the Higher Ed Marketer podcast's Faith Leaders Series we speak with Dondi Costin, president of Liberty University, about the intersection of Christian faith and higher education. They discuss the importance of leadership in maintaining the mission of the university, the rol…

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Affordable Faith: Rethinking the Cost and Impact of Christian Higher Ed 35:44

4M ago35:44

35:44

Faith Leaders Mini-Series - Episode 208 (3 of 4) In this special mini-series, Bart Caylor and Zach Coffin (VP of The Higher Ed Marketer and Pastor) explore the intersection of faith and higher education. Each week they engage in meaningful conversations with Christian higher ed leaders from across the country. In this week's episode of The Higher E…

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The Calling to Recruit: Why Faith Still Matters in Higher Ed Marketing 39:23

4M ago39:23

39:23

Faith Leaders Mini-Series - Episode 207 (2 of 4) In this special mini-series, Bart Caylor and Zach Coffin (VP of The Higher Ed Marketer and Pastor) explore the intersection of faith and higher education. Each week they engage in meaningful conversations with Christian higher ed leaders from across the country. This week they’re joined by Dr. Phil C…

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The State of Christian Higher Ed: Opportunities, Challenges, and a Path Forward 41:17

4M ago41:17

41:17

Faith Leaders Mini-Series - Episode 206 (1 of 4) In this special mini-series, Bart Caylor and Zach Coffin (VP of The Higher Ed Marketer) explore the intersection of faith and higher education. Each week of this series they have thoughtful discussions with a Christian Higher Ed leader from across the country. This week they are joined by Dr. Philip …

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Faith Leaders Mini-Series Next Week 2:51

5M ago2:51

2:51

We’re thrilled to announce the Faith Leaders Mini Series—a special four-week series of episodes focused on the unique opportunities, challenges, and innovations within Christian higher education. Hosted by Bart Caylor and joined by guest co-host Zach Coffin, VP of The Higher Ed Marketer, this series features conversations with influential leaders f…

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Lessons from a Rookie VP Navigating Higher Education Marketing: Endurance, Storytelling, and Enrollment 40:01

5M ago40:01

40:01

In this conversation, Jeff Salyer, shares insights from his recent transition into Vice President for Enrollment and Marketing at Lee University. He draws parallels between ultra running and the challenges of enrollment, emphasizing the need for effective communication and listening to stakeholders. Jeff also highlights the significance of engaging…

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Next Week: What Higher Ed Marketing Can Learn from Ultra Running 2:33

5M ago2:33

2:33

Bonus Episode Alert 🚨 We’re closing out Season 6 with something special. In next week’s bonus episode, Dr. Jeff Salyer—VP for Enrollment and Marketing at Lee University—joins us to talk about endurance, storytelling, and the future of student engagement. This short update from Zach Coffin, VP of The Higher Ed Marketer, includes a sneak peek of what…

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Forged in Crisis: How Higher Ed Leaders Turn Adversity into Strength 42:01

5M ago42:01

42:01

Season 6 - Episode 204 In this episode, Dr. Gayle D. Beebe, President of Westmont College, joins us for a candid conversation about leading through adversity and staying anchored in mission when everything feels uncertain. Drawing from more than 30 years in higher education — and nearly two decades as a college president — Dr. Beebe shares hard-won…

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Scaling AI in Higher Ed – Lessons from ASU’s AI Integration 37:37

6M ago37:37

37:37

Season 6 - Episode 203 In this episode, we sit down with Tina Miller from Arizona State University to explore how ASU is boldly embracing AI—not just as a tool, but as a campus-wide transformation strategy. We also dig into their groundbreaking partnership with OpenAI and the creation of ChatGPT EDU, a major step toward reshaping how students and e…

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Crisis Communication Strategies for Universities 35:52

6M ago35:52

35:52

Season 6 - Episode 202 Is your university truly prepared for a crisis—and is that plan ready to activate when it matters most? In this conversation, Mike Thomas, Vice President for Integrated Marketing Communications at Pepperdine University, explores the vital role of gratitude, crisis communication, and the Emergency Operations Committee in navig…

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Reclaiming Relevance: How Higher Ed Marketing Can Reconnect with a Changing World 38:28

6M ago38:28

38:28

Season 6 - Episode 201 In this episode, Carol Keese, VP and CMP at University of Oregon, challenges traditional higher ed marketing norms and invites institutions to let go of exclusivity and lean into authenticity. Drawing on her extensive experience, she unpacks how colleges and universities can better communicate their value by focusing on acces…

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Rebranding a Giant — Ethan Braden’s Bold Vision for Texas A&M 40:07

6M ago40:07

40:07

Season 6 - Episode 200 What happens when one of the most respected voices in higher ed marketing takes on one of the country’s largest and most tradition-rich institutions? In our 200th episode, Ethan Braden shares his bold vision for Texas A&M University—why he said yes to the role, how he’s reimagining its brand on a national scale, and what it t…

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Heart Over Hype: How Empathy-Driven Marketing Transforms Higher Ed 38:23

7M ago38:23

38:23

Season 6 - Episode 199 Is higher ed marketing building real connections, or just making a lot of noise? We sit down with Jaime Hunt, Founder & President of Solve Higher Ed Marketing and author of the newly released Heart Over Hype, to explore how empathy-driven marketing can revolutionize the way universities engage with their audiences. Jaime unpa…

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Stop Sending Bad Emails! Higher Ed Marketing Insights from "Mailed It!" 43:54

7M ago43:54

43:54

Season 6 - Episode 198 Why does no one read your university emails? Ashley Budd and Dayana Kibilds, co-authors of Mailed It!, join us to break down the biggest mistakes higher ed marketers make—and how to fix them. In this episode, we get tactical about what actually works in email marketing for enrollment, advancement, and alumni engagement. From …

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The Evolution of the Chief Revenue Officer and Enrollment 40:37

7M ago40:37

40:37

Season 6, Episode 197 Too often in higher ed, finance, marketing, and enrollment teams operate in silos, creating roadblocks to sustainable growth. Steven Rutt, Chief Revenue Officer at Abilene Christian University, joins us to break down why alignment between these teams is crucial—and how to make it happen. In this conversation, Steven shares why…

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Your First 90 Days as CMO 43:32

7M ago43:32

43:32

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 le…

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Inside the Enrollment Playbook: Data, Strategy, and Bold Moves 45:16

8M ago45:16

45:16

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…

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Building a Marketing Culture That Embraces Change 33:47

8M ago33:47

33:47

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,…

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Mastering Organic Social Media: Secrets to Engagement & Growth 46:47

8M ago46:47

46:47

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 succ…

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Dueling Perspectives: Enrollment VP and Parent 46:26

10M ago46:26

46:26

~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 …

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Creative Solutions for Community College Marketing 36:47

10M ago36:47

36:47

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 i…

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Kingswood Learn: Mission-Driven Innovation in Online Education with Dr. Steve Lennox, Kingswood University 35:33

10M ago35:33

35:33

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 th…

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Life Skills, AI, and Innovation with Dr. Nido Qubein from High Point University 46:08

11M ago46:08

46:08

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,…

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FAFSA, Athletics and Tuition Reset with Dr. Bryan Gross from Hartwick College 40:19

11M ago40:19

40:19

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…

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GenAI for Teams with Bart Caylor and Zach Coffin 47:12

11M ago47:12

47:12

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 pr…

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Millennial President Nick Griffin: Bold Leadership, AI, and Bilingualism 38:55

11M ago38:55

38:55

In this episode, we sit down with Nick Griffin from Mid-South Christian College, who shares valuable insights on fostering creativity, collaboration, and community engagement in higher education. As a young college president of age 32, with a big, action-driven vision, Nick talks about embracing new opportunities, the importance of building an agil…

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Leading Bold Change Through Innovation: David Wright on the Future of Higher Education 42:59

12M ago42:59

42:59

In this episode of The Higher Ed Marketer, we speak with David Wright, President Emeritus of Indiana Wesleyan University and Founder and President of Christian Education Services, about the evolving landscape of education. David shares his pioneering work in online education during the 1990s, offering a unique perspective on how technology facilita…

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A Business-Like Approach: Bringing a CEO Mindset to Higher Ed 30:40

12M ago30:40

30:40

Eric Hogue, President at Colorado Christian University, joins Bart to explore the benefits of applying a CEO mindset to higher education leadership. Eric shares how this business-driven approach can align with the mission of higher ed institutions while promoting financial sustainability. From focusing on net tuition profits to involving donors as …

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How Generative AI Tools Can Help You Survive the Enrollment Cliff 37:18

12M ago37:18

37:18

In this episode, Gil Rogers, Founder and Principal of GR7 Marketing, talks about overcoming the fear of failure in higher education marketing and enrollment. Gil unpacks how legacy strategies can hold institutions back and why embracing new tools like generative AI is essential for success. He also highlights practical steps institutions can take t…

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Building an In-House Agency: The Purdue Brand Studio Journey 44:53

1y ago44:53

44:53

Kelly Hiller, VP of Marketing and Communications at Purdue University, shares the story behind Purdue’s exciting rebrand, transforming their marketing department into the in-house agency Purdue Brand Studio. Kelly discusses the inspiration behind this bold move, the challenges faced in repositioning the department, and how Purdue is pushing creativ…

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Intentional Branding: A Messaging Strategy That Resonates 31:18

1y ago31:18

31:18

Bart and Troy return for a conversation with Janice Supplee, VP for Enrollment and Communications at Cedarville University, around intentional branding in higher ed messaging. Janice shares how Cedarville’s “One Thousand Days” metaphor has not only defined the institution’s identity but also shaped its approach to student development and marketing …

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Amplify Student Voices: Let Them Tell Their Stories 28:55

1y ago28:55

28:55

How often do you find yourself wondering what your school’s marketing messaging should be? What are your prospective students interested in? What do they see that sets your institution apart? The easiest way to hear your students’ stories is from the students themselves. We’re chatting with Kathy Howell and Kathy Payne from Delaware Valley Universi…

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How to Include Donor Stories in Your Marketing Campaigns 35:06

1y ago35:06

35:06

In 2021, Kenyon College in Gambier, Ohio, received a record-breaking $100 million gift from an anonymous donor. So how did Kenyon’s marketing department creatively share the story of this generous anonymous donor while emphasizing the importance of gifts at every level? Kenyon’s Vice President for Advancement, Colleen Garland, and Vice President fo…

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Messaging Modalities, Personas, and Strategic Actions 35:15

1y ago35:15

35:15

Take another trip back in time with us as we revisit another compelling episode of the Higher Ed Marketer Podcast. In 2022, Jay Baer, Business Growth and Customer Experience Researcher — and tequila sommelier — shared his three essential keys to marketing with us. By identifying audience personas and adapting your messaging accordingly, you can str…

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The Enrollment Cliff: Tim Fuller's Perspective 42:03

1y ago42:03

42:03

In early 2023, Bart’s mentor and a dear friend of the show, Tim Fuller, joined us for an insightful conversation about the demographic enrollment cliff. Tim unexpectedly passed away a few short months after this episode originally aired. As a lifelong advocate for higher education, Tim’s passion for helping academic institutions and the students th…