Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager

Jenny Li Fowler sits down with Maree Jones, Director of Social Media Strategy at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, to dive into a topic that's all too familiar for social pros — burnout. In this powerful conversation, Maree shares her personal experiences, how burnout manifests for social media professionals, and what institutions can do to foster healthier workplace cultures. If you’re managing digital engagement in higher ed, this is a must-listen episode that blends empathy with actionable advice.Guest Name: Maree Jones, the Director of social media strategy at University of Alabama BirminghamGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Maree Jones wears many hats: social media strategist, digital content writer and thought leader, sought-after speaker and emcee, and more. With more than 15 years of experience in the ever-evolving world of digital communication, she now serves as the Director of Social Media Strategy at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, the largest employer in the state of Alabama and a powerhouse research institution. Her guiding mantra, “Digital relationships are real relationships,” is the foundation of her work and leadership. Throughout her career, Maree has shaped the online presence of national and global brands across industries, including higher education and technology, healthcare, and consumer products. It’s safe to say you’ve seen her award-winning work online without even realizing it. When she’s not leading UAB’s social media ecosystem or speaking to audiences about digital culture, this Birmingham, Alabama native is a wife, mom, pet mom, and nonprofit advocate. Learn more at mareejones.com. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jenny Li Fowlerhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jennylifowler/https://twitter.com/TheJennyLiAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager, Erin Supinka, Associate Director of Digital Engagement at Dartmouth College, shares the behind-the-scenes story of how she scaled Dartmouth’s social media team from a party of one to a high-performing team of four. Erin unpacks the practical steps, persistent challenges, and powerful advocacy it took to build a team that’s reshaping what digital engagement looks like in higher ed. Whether you’re a social media manager dreaming of more support or a leader wondering how to justify additional investment in social, this episode is your blueprint.Guest Name: Erin Supinka, Director of Digital Engagement, Dartmouth CollegeGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Erin Supinka is the Director of Digital Engagement at Dartmouth College. Erin oversees Dartmouth’s social media presence, shaping its voice, strategy, and community engagement across platforms.  Erin has developed a reputation for using data-driven insights to drive meaningful engagement and to transform institutional social programs. When she joined Dartmouth, she rebooted the school’s social strategy and introduced tools and workflows that significantly increased engagement across the college’s channels.  Erin believes in social media as a tool for community building not just content distribution. She emphasizes responsiveness, collaboration across campus offices, and the importance of listening to and supporting the campus community online. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jenny Li Fowlerhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jennylifowler/https://twitter.com/TheJennyLiAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In Episode 56 of Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager, host Jenny Li Fowler sits down with Jon-Stephen Stansel — seasoned social media strategist and author of The 10 Principles of Effective Social Media Marketing. Jon shares his journey from burned-out higher ed manager to freelance success, offering up survival strategies, productivity hacks, and hot takes on AI, memes, and the myth of “posting at the right time.” This is a must-listen episode for any social media manager balancing creativity with chaos.Guest Name: Jon-Stephen Stansel, Social media consultant and author of The 10 Principles of Effective Social Media MarketingGuest Socials: LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsiteGuest Bio: Jon-Stephen Stansel is an award-winning social media professional with over a decade of experience managing, building, and creating content for brand social media accounts. He has run social media accounts for Amazon Prime's Invincible animated series, Hyper RPG, Better Place Forests, the University of Central Arkansas, Texas State University, the Texas Department of Transportation, as well as consulting for many television series, films, and small businesses. As Director of Social Media for Chaotic Good Studios, Jon-Stephen worked on social media strategy and content for AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER and Amazon Prime Video’s LORD OF THE RINGS: THE RINGS OF POWER among several other major entertainment franchises. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jenny Li Fowlerhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jennylifowler/https://twitter.com/TheJennyLiAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jenny Li Fowler sits down with Rochelle Reed, Social Media Manager at James Madison University (JMU), to unpack how Instagram Stories evolved from an overlooked feature into a strategic powerhouse for campus engagement. Rochelle shares how JMU has built a data-driven Instagram Stories strategy that prioritizes interaction, authenticity, and smart storytelling. This episode is a goldmine for anyone serious about leveling up their social content game.Guest Name: Rochelle Reed, Social Media Manager, James Madison UniversityGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Rochelle Reed is the social media manager at James Madison University, where she works with students and campus partners to elevate JMU stories and connect with the JMU community.  Rochelle is a proud alum of JMU and is honored to steward the growth of JMU's social media presence. With a decade of social media experience, most in higher education, Rochelle leads a community of practice for social media at JMU and provides guidance and support to campus partners across JMU. Her experience as a certified community manager allows her to navigate the flexible and dynamic landscape of social media and community management while ensuring JMU’s online communities thrive and grow. Previously, Rochelle worked at Lehigh University, where she worked on the institutional and admissions social media accounts. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jenny Li Fowlerhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jennylifowler/https://twitter.com/TheJennyLiAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jenny Li Fowler sits down with Matt Gerrish from Quid to uncover how the Rival IQ + Quid 2024 Higher Education Social Media Engagement Report comes to life. From understanding what drives rankings to exploring why some schools dominate year after year, Matt gives listeners a peek behind the data curtain. This episode is packed with insights on engagement strategy, platform prioritization, and content tactics that lead to top-tier social media performance. If you're wondering how your institution can climb the rankings—or even make the list—this episode is a must-listen.2024 Higher Ed Social Media Engagement ReportGuest Name: Matt Gerrish is an Outcomes Engineer & Strategist at QuidGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Matt Gerrish is an Outcomes Engineer & Strategist at Quid, where he has been helping customers uncover data-driven insights across Quid products (including Rival IQ) for nearly three years. Prior to that, Matt worked as a social media manager in higher education for 10 years, leading social media efforts at Utah State University and Weber State University, propelling USU to Top 5 rankings on Rival IQ's Higher Education Social Media Engagement Report for three straight years. Matt then made the jump to Quid, and enjoys helping with the creation of the same annual report he looked forward to reading every year.Matt has also served as a social media consultant for various education and sports-related organizations in Utah, including the Utah High School Activities association, the Utah School Boards Association, and the Larry H. Miller Utah Summer Games. Matt earned a master’s degree in Professional Communication, and previously worked as a journalist for four years before transitioning to higher-ed. Matt has also served as an adjunct professor in Weber State University’s Department of Communication, teaching classes on new media, social media campaigns, and interpersonal & small group communications. He currently lives in Roy, Utah, with his wife, Jen, and his two sons, ages 12 and 9. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jenny Li Fowlerhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jennylifowler/https://twitter.com/TheJennyLiAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jenny Li Fowler sits down with Emma Dorman, the first-ever social media manager at the University of Montana, to explore what it takes to build a university’s digital personality from the ground up. In this vibrant conversation, Emma shares how embracing the unique culture, lifestyle, and geography of Montana has become the secret sauce behind their skyrocketing engagement and retention rates. From bear alerts to lumberjack balls, this episode unpacks why leaning into your institution’s quirks might just be the best social strategy you haven’t tried yet.Related Link: https://www.instagram.com/p/DPAM3axkSB3/Guest Name: Emma Dorman, Social Media Manager at the University of MontanaGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Emma Dorman is the Social Media Manager at the University of Montana where she's amplifying the Grizzly voice across all the flagship's main accounts and the admissions-centered accounts, as well as running her social coaching program for campus. Before Emma, the Umontana social media duties were split amongst everyone in the marketing department! In three years, Emma has doubled UM's engagement rates and follower counts. Before working at UM, she was a student there, where she received her degree in Communication while working several social media internships. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jenny Li Fowlerhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jennylifowler/https://twitter.com/TheJennyLiAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jenny Li Fowler sits down with Jaime Hunt, host of Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO, for a no-holds-barred conversation packed with hot takes on higher education marketing, leadership dysfunction, and the systemic cultural habits holding institutions back. Drawing from decades of experience, Jaime and Jenny bring a sharp, refreshingly honest lens to some of higher ed’s most persistent challenges—from siloed departments and underfunded marketing teams to presidents chasing prestige at the expense of authenticity. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jenny Li Fowlerhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jennylifowler/https://twitter.com/TheJennyLiAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

- - - - Connect With Our Host: Jenny Li Fowler https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennylifowler/ https://twitter.com/TheJennyLi About The Enrollify Podcast Network: Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!  Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In Episode #50 of Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager, host Jenny Li Fowler sits down with Eve Gaciarz, Assistant Director of Communications at the Yale MacMillan Center, to discuss the transition from a social media-specific role to a broader communications position within the same institution. As a former Associate Director of Social Media at Yale School of Management, Eve shares how she’s leveraging her social media expertise in a new environment and rethinking communications strategy in a more global, academic context. This conversation is a must-listen for professionals considering a pivot or expansion in their higher ed marketing career.Guest Name: Eve Gaciarz, Assistant Director of Communications at the Yale MacMillan CenterGuest Social: LInkedInGuest Bio: Eve Gaciarz is the Assistant Director of Communications at the Yale MacMillan Center, where she supports strategic messaging and digital engagement across the Center’s globally focused programs and initiatives. She brings a strong background in marketing, communications, and social media strategy, with a focus on storytelling that builds connection and elevates institutional voice. Prior to joining MacMillan, she served as Associate Director of Social Media at the Yale School of Management, leading community-driven campaigns and platform growth. Eve earned her bachelor’s degree in Communication, specializing in Public Relations and Advertising, and her master’s degree in Management, both from the University of Hartford. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jenny Li Fowlerhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jennylifowler/https://twitter.com/TheJennyLiAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager, host Jenny Li Fowler sits down with Ted Harrison, Founder and CEO of neuemotion and former Head of Advertiser Production at Twitter (yes, real Twitter). Ted brings a refreshing take on creativity in social media, debunking the myth that inspiration strikes like lightning. Instead, he shares how creative consistency is a skill—one that can be systematized, scaled, and repeated. Whether you're a burned-out content creator or a higher ed social media manager in a creative rut, this episode is full of insights that will reignite your spark.Guest Name: Ted Harrison, Founder/CEO at neuemotionGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Ted Harrison is the Founder and CEO at neuemotion, servicing Fortune 500 clients and beyond, author of Entrepreneurial Creativity: Repeatable Creative Success, and the former Head of Production at Twitter Inc. & X Corp. His past work has ranged from building a 9-figure content business as an "intra"preneur at Twitter, to animation onsite in Iraq, to award-winning Super Bowl commercials, to script coverage for Academy Award-winning director Jonathan Demme. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jenny Li Fowlerhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jennylifowler/https://twitter.com/TheJennyLiAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jenny Li Fowler sits down with Joe Teo, CEO of HeyOrca, for a candid conversation about the underestimated brilliance of higher ed social media teams. From crisis communication mastery to culture-shaping content creation, Joe shares why higher ed marketers are the unsung heroes of the digital age. Tune into this episode for an energizing take on how resourceful, adaptive, and strategic these teams truly are.Guest Name: Joe Teo Chief Executive Orca, HeyOrcaGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Joe Teo is the CEO and co-founder of HeyOrca, a social media management platform helping teams and agencies build communities. He’s also a “dad-in-training” to two young kids, navigating the beautiful chaos of business and family life in Newfoundland. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jenny Li Fowlerhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jennylifowler/https://twitter.com/TheJennyLiAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jenny Li Fowler sits down with Amanda Natividad — marketer, podcaster, and former trained chef — to tackle a challenge every social media manager and content creator eventually faces: handling negative comments and trolls online. From understanding the difference between criticism and trolling to learning when to clap back and when to scroll on, Amanda shares real-life stories, personal missteps, and practical strategies for keeping your cool in the chaotic world of online engagement. If you’ve ever let one bad comment ruin your day, this conversation is your crash course in building resilience and reclaiming perspective.Guest Name: Amanda Natividad, VP of Marketing, SparkToroGuest Socials: LinkedInInstagramMeme Team PodcastGuest Bio: Amanda Natividad is VP of Marketing for audience research startup, SparkToro. In her spare time, she co-hosts the Meme Team podcast and writes a marketing newsletter called the Menu (with over 16k subscribers). She’s also the creator/teacher for Content Marketing 201, a contributor for Adweek, a Le Cordon Bleu-trained chef, and a former journalist. Amanda previously led marketing for Growth Machine, led marketing for Liftopia, built Fitbit’s B2B content program, and led content and communications for NatureBox. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jenny Li Fowlerhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jennylifowler/https://twitter.com/TheJennyLiAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jenny Li Fowler sits down with Chelsey Holts, Director of Content Strategy at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Chelsey recounts her firsthand experience managing campus communications during not one—but two—active shooter incidents at UNC. This powerful conversation explores the evolving role of social media in emergency communications, the need for cross-functional collaboration, and how crisis preparedness can shape a content strategy that’s both compassionate and clear. If you're responsible for social media in higher ed, this is a must-listen.Guest Name: Chelsey Holts, Director of Content Strategy at the University of North Carolina at Chapel HillGuest Socials:LinkedInInstagramGuest Bio: Chelsey Holts is the Director of Content Strategy at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, overseeing the development and implementation of campus-wide communications content in support of the University’s brand strategy and key messages. In her role, she advises leadership on strategy and reputation and works with a team to identify, produce and amplify impactful content for Carolina’s various audiences on its website, social media channels and email newsletter. She consults with colleagues across campus on strategy and crisis management and leads collaborative initiatives with departments and schools. Previously, Chelsey served as the Director of Social Media for Carolina. Her experience in social media and digital marketing spans various industries, including automotive, entertainment, agricultural and higher education. Chelsey is a graduate of the UNC Hussman School of Journalism and Media and has published several articles in the Journal of Education Advancement & Marketing. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jenny Li Fowlerhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jennylifowler/https://twitter.com/TheJennyLiAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jenny Li Fowler sits down with Christina Garnett—fractional chief customer officer, online community strategist, and author of the upcoming book Transforming Customer Brand Relationships. Together, they dive deep into what it really means to build authentic relationships with your audiences online. From mourning the loss of Twitter to embracing fan-driven engagement, this episode explores the nuances of online connection, community building, and why higher ed institutions need to stop treating social media like a digital billboard. This is a must-listen for anyone shaping digital engagement strategies in higher ed.Guest Name: Christina Garnett, Fractional Chief Customer Officer, Customer experience strategist, and authorGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: I believe great brands aren’t just experienced, they are felt.As a Fractional Chief Customer Officer, CX strategist, and communications advisor, I help brands design intentional customer journeys, build thriving communities, and tell stories that get noticed. I work at the intersection of customer experience, social strategy, and community-building, creating strategies that foster real connection and long-term loyalty.I also help agencies and in-house teams craft communications plans that celebrate their work, spotlight their wins, and earn industry recognition. Whether it involves preparing award submissions or amplifying customer success stories, I make sure impact gets the visibility it deserves.My insights are featured in HubSpot Academy, HeyOrca, and Semrush, and I’ve spoken at INBOUND, Digital Summit, and other leading industry events. You can also find my work in Adweek, Forbes, Entrepreneur, and Campaign US.Transforming Customer-Brand Relationships, my book coming out with Kogan Page in September 2025, is a hands-on guide to building stronger connections and deeper loyalty through empathy and emotional intelligence. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jenny Li Fowlerhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jennylifowler/https://twitter.com/TheJennyLiAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jenny Li Fowler sits down with Grant Schol, Associate Director of Communication and Project Management for the Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Arkansas. Together, they unpack the evolving meaning of authenticity in higher ed social media and why it’s not as simple as just “being real.” Grant shares strategies for humanizing institutional accounts, empowering student voices, and creating content that speaks directly to your campus community. This conversation dives deep into community building, student-first messaging, and how to balance fun with institutional integrity—all through the lens of a social media manager’s lived experience.Guest Name: Grant Schol, Associate Director of Communication and Project Management for the Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences at the University of ArkansasGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: As Associate Director of Communications and Project Management for Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Arkansas, Grant leverages his multimedia storytelling skills to champion the incredible stories found on a university campus. With more than nine years of experience in public relations, social media, and photography, Grant has a passion for inspiring change and showcasing the stories of the U of A community.In his previous roles in higher education, Grant has been a full-time social media manager for the Sam M. Walton College of Business, also at the U of A, worked as the full-time campus photographer for the University of Central Arkansas, and directed a study abroad campus in Italy for his undergraduate alma mater, Harding University. Additionally, he has worked as a project manager and story producer for a corporate video production team and ran his own creative consultation and freelance photography business. He has also won multiple awards for his work in breaking news and sports photography, and published work in yearbooks, newspapers, art shows, and other digital and print materials. Grant holds a B.A. in public relations and is continuing his education at the U of A in the M.A. in communication program. He is always eager to learn new skills, explore new perspectives, and collaborate with others to deliver high-quality, meaningful, and impactful content. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jenny Li Fowlerhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jennylifowler/https://twitter.com/TheJennyLiAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager, host Jenny Li Fowler chats with Erica Colaianne, Director of Social Media at the University of Michigan, about the critical art of understanding your audience and staying nimble on social. From building out detailed platform-specific personas to crafting crisis-proof content, Erica shares how her newsroom roots and strategic thinking shape her approach to higher ed communications. If you're looking for real-world strategies for smarter social media management, this is the episode you’ve been waiting for.Guest Name: Erica Colaianne, Director of Social Media, University of MichiganGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Erica Colaianne is the Director of Social Media at the University of Michigan where she leads the social communications team that creates dynamic content every day for audiences of more than 2.6 million. Representing a world-class institution known for academic excellence, innovative research, and a vast global alumni network, she strategizes content to continuously educate and engage all audiences. She also drives the coordination of cohesive content strategies for the university, bringing social communicators across U-M together. Through her work cultivating engaged communities and building trust with audiences, she leads strategies that successfully demonstrate the immense impact of the university and encapsulate the Wolverine experience.Erica previously worked in communications and marketing at Wayne State University and prior to joining the higher education community she led communications and marketing efforts for a range of organizations including healthcare, media companies and nonprofits. She graduated from Wayne State University with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and received a master’s degree in integrated marketing communications from Eastern Michigan University. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jenny Li Fowlerhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jennylifowler/https://twitter.com/TheJennyLiAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this energizing episode of Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager, host Jenny Li Fowler sits down with Chi Thukral, Content Creator and Social Media Strategist, to unpack the nuances of trust, creative freedom, and the realities of navigating approval processes in social media management. With real-world anecdotes, industry hot takes, and tactical advice, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone managing—or approving—social media content in higher ed. Learn how creative risk-taking, clear communication, and earned trust can radically improve your institution’s digital voice.Guest Name: Chi Thukral, Content Creator & Social Media StrategistGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Chi Thukral is a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree and Webby-nominated marketing leader with 10 years of global experience growing audiences, shaping digital brands, and leading full-funnel content strategies. From India to Japan to North America, her expat lens and psychology background fuel bold, culturally fluent storytelling. A creative strategist who’s chronically online, Chi blends internet instinct with data, sentiment, and AI tools to craft scroll-stopping, soul-hitting content. Her work lives at the intersection of culture, content, and connection—helping brands show up with purpose in a chaotic digital world. Chi is passionate about sustainability, climate action and animal welfare causes where she dedicates her time when she is finally offline. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jenny Li Fowlerhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jennylifowler/https://twitter.com/TheJennyLiAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this thought-provoking episode of Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager, host Jenny Li Fowler sits down with Safaniya Stevenson, a seasoned higher ed social strategist, to challenge one of the industry’s sacred cows: the audience persona. Together, they explore the limitations of personas in higher ed marketing and advocate for a more human, community-driven approach. This episode is a must-listen for enrollment marketers, brand strategists, and social media managers navigating a diverse and evolving student landscape.Guest Name: Safaniya Stevenson, Marketing ConsultantGuest Socials: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/safaniyastevenson/Portfolio Website: https://safaniyastevensonportfolio.my.canva.site/Guest Bio: Strategist. Storyteller. Status quo disruptor. Safaniya "Safy" Stevenson transforms brands by understanding what makes audiences tick. With over a decade of experience spanning TV news to digital leadership, she has orchestrated viral campaigns and led multimillion-dollar rebrands for institutions like NC State, Boise State and Cal Poly Humboldt. Named a 2024 AAMA "Marketer to Watch" and SXSW EDU presenter, Safy brings her signature optimism to clients across Agribusiness, Food & Beverage, Tourism, and Education. This Raleigh-based Lego enthusiast (20+ builds and counting) applies her omnichannel expertise to create authentic narratives that elevate brands beyond conventional boundaries. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jenny Li Fowlerhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jennylifowler/https://twitter.com/TheJennyLiAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jenny welcomes Tara Mikaelian and Hattie Wilkinson from Sprout Social to unpack the powerful role of social media data in higher ed marketing. They dive into why this data matters, how it connects to institutional goals, and how social media managers can use real-time insights to drive strategy, demonstrate ROI, and advocate for their role. With real-world examples and actionable tips, this conversation offers a fresh take on using social data as a strategic tool rather than just a performance report.Guest Names: Hattie Wilkinson, Senior Solutions Engineer, Sprout Social Tara Mikaelian, Sr. Enterprise Account Executive, Sprout Social Guest Socials: Hattie LinkedInTara LinkedInGuest Bios: Hattie Wilkinson is a social media expert with over 10 years of experience across diverse industries. In her current role as a Solutions Engineer at Sprout Social, she collaborates closely with higher education social teams, leveraging Sprout Social’s capabilities to streamline workflows and establish the tangible ROI of their social initiatives. Hattie’s passion lies in all things social data and helping social teams navigate the ever-evolving social landscape.Tara Mikaelian is a seasoned social media strategist with over six years of experience driving digital engagement across a range of industries. In her current role as a Growth & Strategy Partner at Sprout Social, she works with higher education institutions to optimize their social media efforts—streamlining operations, unifying data, and demonstrating the measurable cross-institutional impact of their work. Guided by a passion for using technology to empower deeper human connection, Tara is dedicated to helping organizations simplify complexity and elevate their impact. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jenny Li Fowlerhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jennylifowler/https://twitter.com/TheJennyLiAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Host Jenny Li Fowler is joined by Christina Le, a strategic social media pro currently leading marketing efforts at the social listening startup Plot. Together, they dig deep into what it really takes to launch a successful social media campaign—especially when you’re operating with little to no budget. From identifying the "why" behind a campaign to finding creators on LinkedIn who will amplify your message (even for free), this episode is a goldmine for anyone looking to make a meaningful impact with minimal resources.Guest Name: Christina Le, Head of Marketing, PlotGuest Socials: LinkedInSubstackGuest Bio: Christina Le has built social media from the ground up at six different companies across a range of industries. Now, she’s the Head of Marketing at Plot, a next-gen social listening platform that helps brands extract insights from video content. With over a decade in social, she’s passionate about making social media marketing more strategic, sustainable, and—most importantly—recognized as a core business function, not an afterthought. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Jenny Li Fowlerhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jennylifowler/https://twitter.com/TheJennyLiAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:Confessions of a Higher Ed Social Media Manager is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too! Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.