The NSPRA Podcast

NSPRA

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The NSPRA Podcast from the National School Public Relations Association explores the ideas, strategies and stories shaping school communication today. Through conversations with voices from across the field, it highlights the people, perspectives and experiences that define the profession and its impact on schools and communities.

Episode 1

Shaping Strategy Episode 1: Beyond the Acronym

What happens when you take a step toward something that could change how you work? It often starts with hesitation. Maybe even a little fear. In the kickoff episode of "Shaping Strategy: The APR Journey," NSPRA Accreditation Committee Chair Danielle Airey, APR, pulls back the curtain on her decision to pursue her accreditation in public relations, what challenged her along the way and what began to shift as she moved through the process. What starts as uncertainty gradually becomes something more. Hear how Danielle’s work begins to change, becoming less about reacting and more about thinking strategically, asking better questions and showing up with greater clarity and purpose. Whether APR is already on your radar or not, this is a starting point for thinking differently about your work and what’s possible. https://www.nspra.org/
Episode 2

Shaping Strategy Episode 2: I’m In! Now What?

What’s it really like once you decide to take the APR journey? For many, it’s not a straight path. It can be stops and starts, self-doubt and questions about where to begin. In Episode 2 of “Shaping Strategy: The APR Journey,” two recently accredited school communicators share what it looked like to commit and keep going. From imposter syndrome and failed exams to mentors, study strategies and balancing real life along the way, their stories offer an honest look at what happens after you say yes to the process. There’s no perfect timeline and no single way to do it. But there are ways to move forward, build momentum and stay with it, even when it feels hard. If you’ve been thinking about APR, or wondering what it actually takes to get started, this episode meets you right there. https://www.nspra.org/
Episode 3

Shaping Strategy Episode 3: Just Ask Chat

In this episode of Shaping Strategy: The APR Journey, host Krystyna Baumgartner, APR, sits down with school communication leaders Marci Orr, APR, and Jake Potter, APR, to explore how artificial intelligence is showing up in the day-to-day work of school PR. From brainstorming and workflow efficiencies to ethical considerations and transparency, this conversation takes a practical look at how communicators are beginning to use AI while staying grounded in trust, authenticity and strategic thinking. Drawing on their experience and APR-informed approach, Marci and Jake reflect on how AI can support each step of the RPIE process, where human oversight still matters most, and how communicators can model responsible use across their districts. Whether AI is already embedded in your daily workflow, something you’re beginning to explore, or still an open question, this episode offers a thoughtful, real-world perspective on how it’s shaping school communication and what it means for the future of the work. https://www.nspra.org/
Episode 4

Shaping Strategy Episode 4: Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

Collaboration is at the heart of the APR journey, and the NSPRA APR Cohort brings that to life. In this episode, we explore how the cohort creates a space for communicators to learn together, share experiences and support one another through every stage of accreditation. Host Kristina Baumgartner, APR, is joined by NSPRA Member Engagement and Professional Development Manager Melissa McConnell and NSPRA North Central Region Vice President Terri McHugh, APR, to break down how the cohort works, who it’s for and why it’s making such an impact. You’ll also hear why the cohort isn’t just for those ready to pursue their APR right now. Whether you’re simply curious about accreditation or looking to strengthen your approach to communication, the experience is designed to build a stronger foundation in strategy, planning and evaluation—skills that show up immediately in your day-to-day work. From peer-to-peer learning and mentorship to structured guidance and real-time feedback, this episode highlights how collaboration can elevate your thinking, expand your network and help you grow as a communicator, no matter where you are in your journey. https://www.nspra.org/
Episode 5

Shaping Strategy Episode 5: I Passed My Panel!

What really happens during the APR panel and how can you walk in ready? In this episode of "Shaping Strategy: The APR Journey," host Krystyna Baumgartner, APR, is joined by accredited professionals Eric Hagemann, APR and Tracy Jentz, APR, to break down one of the most talked-about steps in the accreditation process: the panel presentation. From choosing the right project to refining your narrative and preparing for panelist questions, Eric and Tracy share candid insights from both sides of the table. They discuss how to demonstrate strategic thinking (not just memorization), what panelists are truly looking for and how to approach the experience with confidence and a growth mindset. You’ll hear practical tips on: Selecting and shaping a strong panel project, even if it’s not “perfect”Using feedback, mock panels and mentors to prepare effectivelyUnderstanding the competencies panelists assess and how to show them in actionCommunicating what you’d do differently now to highlight your growth as a strategistAvoiding common pitfalls and managing nerves on presentation dayWhether you’re actively preparing for your panel or still deciding if the APR is right for you, you’ll find clarity, reassurance and practical guidance to help you take the next step. https://www.nspra.org/
Episode 6

Shaping Strategy Episode 6: The Mentorship Mandate

What difference does a mentor really make in the APR journey, and why does it matter just as much after you earn it? In this episode of Shaping Strategy: The APR Journey, host Krystyna Baumgartner, APR, sits down with Cindy Warner, APR, 2025 National School Communicator of the Year, and Danielle Clark, APR, 2025 NSPRA Barry Gaskins Mentor Legacy Award recipient, to explore the power of mentorship in accreditation and beyond. Drawing from their own experiences navigating the APR process—often without formal mentors—and their work today mentoring others, Cindy and Danielle share candid insights on what it’s like to go it alone, why mentorship can change everything, and how supporting others has become a central part of their professional practice. Together, they discuss:Why mentorship simplifies and strengthens the APR processHow mentors help candidates move from tactics to strategyThe balance between guiding and empowering menteesWhat actually makes a great mentor (hint: perfection isn’t required)How mentorship fuels professional growth—and the future of the fieldWhether you’re considering pursuing your APR, currently in the process or thinking about mentoring someone else, this conversation highlights why mentorship isn’t just helpful; it’s essential to sustaining and advancing the profession. https://www.nspra.org/
Episode 7

Shaping Strategy Episode 7: APRs and PhDs and CPCs, Oh My!

In this episode of "Shaping Strategy: The APR Journey," host Krystyna Baumgartner, APR, sits down with Kevin Christian, CPRC, APR, and Jordan Ziemer, PhD, APR, to unpack how different learning paths, from academia to industry certifications, shape stronger, more strategic communicators. You’ll hear how APR transforms day-to-day work from task-driven to strategic, why ethics and evaluation are foundational to the profession, and how additional credentials can expand both confidence and credibility at the leadership table. Plus, Megan Overman, CPC, APR, shares a behind-the-scenes look at the Certified Public Communicator program and how it builds practical, real-world planning skills that pair powerfully with APR. https://www.nspra.org/
Episode 8

Shaping Strategy Episode 8: Do I Have to Take the Test?

The APR exam can feel like one of the most intimidating parts of the accreditation journey, but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode of "Shaping Strategy: The APR Journey," host Krystyna Baumgartner, APR, explores what to expect from the exam and how to approach it with greater confidence. Hear from Jessica McCartney, APR, and Mandy LeCompte, APR, as they share practical strategies that helped them prepare, including: How study groups, accountability partners and mentors can strengthen your preparationWhy practicing strategic thinking matters more than memorizing every detailHow Jessica used a custom AI-powered study guide to simulate exam questions and reinforce key conceptsTips for building a realistic study timeline and knowing when you’re ready to take the test Then, 2024 Missouri School Counselor of the Year Rachel Reeves Hagelin joins the conversation with practical advice for managing test anxiety, including grounding techniques, positive self-talk and mindset strategies you can use before and during the exam — tools that can also support managing anxiety in everyday professional and personal situations well beyond the APR journey. Whether the APR exam feels daunting or you’re simply wondering what to expect, this episode offers reassurance, preparation tips and a reminder that you may be more ready than you think. Show notes and resources from the episode: "APR SIDEKICK" GPT: https://chatgpt.com/g/g-aCmNuCOgz-apr-sidekick Note: This guest-created GPT study tool is shared as an optional supplemental resource and is not part of official NSPRA preparation materials TEST ANXIETY: Test anxiety tips and notes from Rachel Reeves Hagelin, shared as an optional supplemental tool. Motivational Interviewing What would be good about taking the test?How might their professional lives look differently in 5 years after taking the certification?What worries you if you don’t get the certification?What gives you confidence to take the test?What have you succeeded at in the past that shows that you can succeed in things in the future?How committed are you to taking the test?Test Anxiety in Adults Utilize the resources for the test above (be well-prepared)Utilize the motivation to help with your whyRecognize that anxiety is the amygdala taking over and that you are truly safe. Here are strategies to do that What are you doing right now?I’m sitting and I’m safeI’m typing and I’m safeI’m walking and I’m safeLabel thoughtsThinking/future/unpleasantThinking/past/unpleasantThinking/future/neutral etc.If you catastrophize the test (this will be horrible, and that will be terrible), take a deep breath and reframeImagine what it would be like to look at your score in a couple of weeks when it comes back, and it is one you are satisfied with it.Utilize positive self-talkI have trained for this examI have gotten through hard tests in the past and have been successfulI have confidence for this exam because of all of the successes I have had in the past like…my daughter being born, landing a job, running a 5KThis is just a test. I can take it again if I need toDo meditation before the testUtilize “Headspace” or “Calm” or Headspace Exam ExerciseExam Success MeditationBreathing ExercisesBox BreathingImportance of sleepSleep is crucial for memory and focus. Build a consistent sleep schedule leading up to your exam, aiming for 7-9 hours a night. (https://www.cmich.edu/blog/all-things-higher-ed/15-strategies-for-overcoming-test-anxiety)Importance of foodLean in to the anxietyMost strong emotions last for only 3 minutesStrong distractionsHold iceEat a very sour candyThese shock you out of the ruminationSeek therapyExerciseWalk, Dance, yoga, lift weights, play a sportReleases stress and increases endorphinsBrain dump before the testTake 5 minutes to write everything that you are worried about down. It moves the anxiety from inside the body to on the paper. https://www.nspra.org/

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The NSPRA Podcast from the National School Public Relations Association explores the ideas, strategies and stories shaping school communication today. Through conversations with voices from across the field, it highlights the people, perspectives and experiences that define the profession and its impact on schools and communities.

Creator

NSPRA
Episodes

21
Seasons

2
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© National School Public Relations Association
Show Website

The NSPRA Podcast