CultivatED Marketer

Cultivated Marketer
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  • MARKETING
  • CADA MES

Grow Brand YOU

  1. 25 NOV

    CultivatED Marketer Ep. 39 —  Sharing Engaging Expertise on LinkedIn with Purna Virji

    In the 39th episode of CultivatED Marketer – your go-to professional development podcast for marketing and communications professionals – hosts Brent Bowen, Matt Tidwell, PhD, and Julie Masson, are joined by Purna Virji, Principal Consultant of Content Solutions at LinkedIn. Together, they delve into practical strategies for sharing thought leadership on LinkedIn, optimizing content creation, and leveraging the platform for professional growth. Purna offers valuable insights on the importance of quality content, effective commenting, and video engagement, as well as tips for founders to manage their LinkedIn presence without burnout. Don’t miss this actionable guide to enhancing your LinkedIn success! CultivatED Marketer Ep. 39 —  Sharing Engaging Expertise on LinkedIn with Purna Virji In the rapidly evolving realm of professional networking and digital marketing communications, LinkedIn stands out as a powerhouse platform for developing personal and corporate brands. Purna Virji, Principal Consultant of Content Solutions at LinkedIn and a globally recognized content strategist, shares her insights to help illuminate pathways for marketing professionals pursuing career development, professional growth, and more effective communication professional development. The Shift from Reach to Resonance One of the most significant trends Purna highlighted is the shift from merely seeking reach to fostering resonance. With the rapid influx of content amplified by AI, generic strategies no longer hold sway. To stand out, content needs to be genuinely engaging and aligned with modern marketing communications best practices. Purna stressed the importance of leveraging executive presence to build trust – an essential skill for anyone invested in continuing professional development on platforms like LinkedIn. Navigating the LinkedIn Algorithm There’s substantial discussion around changes in the LinkedIn algorithm, with diverse opinions on its impact. Purna emphasized that despite the chatter, positive shifts are elevating meaningful content over low-value tactics. She encouraged consistency, prioritizing dialogue over monologue, and leaning into video content – which typically sees twice the engagement. These insights are particularly valuable for marketing professionals aiming to strengthen their communications strategies across digital channels. Building a Community Over Pursuing Reach Another key takeaway was the importance of prioritizing community over pure reach. By focusing on quality interactions and nurturing an engaged audience, users naturally expand their influence. This philosophy aligns directly with the goals of marketing professional development, where building relationships and fostering trust often matter more than vanity metrics. Purna encouraged listeners to bring their lived experiences forward. Unlocking Executive Thought Leadership Diving into thought leadership, Purna outlined common pitfalls in executive communications. Many executives default to talking at their audiences rather than engaging with them. For executives looking to strengthen their communications skills or build an audience, shifting toward audience-centric storytelling is essential. By focusing on what audiences care about most, leaders can elevate the impact of their messages and strengthen organizational reputation. Her Founder-led Sales And Marketing Never Ends guide walks leaders through key steps on how to turn expertise into trust and revenue. In fact, she points out that organizational leaders can achieve real ROI using LinkedIn. She provides Hootsuite as one example. Empowering Content Creation with AI As AI reshapes content creation, Purna underscored that foundational marketing principles still matter. AI can enhance efficiency, but the human ability to interpret nuance, emotion, and context remains irreplaceable. For marketing and communications professionals, AI serves as a powerful tool – as long as it complements, rather than replaces, strategic judgment and creativity. Career Insights and Mentorship Reflecting on her career, Purna shared the importance of mentorship, collaboration, and community uplift – core elements of sustainable career development. She showcased the evolving landscape of LinkedIn as a vital platform for meaningful engagement and strategic growth. By embracing authenticity, audience-first communication, and community-driven content strategies, marketers can elevate both their skills and influence. Click the links to connect with Purna Virji on LinkedIn, buy her book High Impact Content Marketing, or to find Purna’s Founder Led Growth Cheat Sheet.   02:04 The Value of Scrolling LinkedIn and Marketing Strategy 03:37 Integration and Full Funnel Content Strategy 05:58 Reaching the Right Audience on LinkedIn 07:43 Introduction to Purna Virji and Her Expertise 09:04 Shifts in Content Strategy on LinkedIn 11:12 Navigating LinkedIn’s Algorithm Changes 17:10 The Importance of Community and Engagement 21:13 Thought Leadership and Audience-Centric Content 23:04 The ‘You’ Attitude in Communication 23:33 Introducing the Founder-Led Sales and Marketing Playbook 25:12 Authentic Engagement on LinkedIn 31:19 Leveraging AI in Content Creation 32:20 Essential Skills for Content Strategists 38:29 Purna’s Career Journey and Insights

    46 min

  2. 7 NOV

    CultivatED Marketer Ep. 38 — Public Service Communications with Jazzlyn Johnson

    In the 38th episode of CultivatED Marketer – your go-to professional development podcast for marketing and communications professionals – hosts Brent Bowen and Matt Tidwell, PhD, explore public service communications with our guest, Jazzlyn Johnson, Director of Communications for the Jackson County Prosecutor’s Office. She offers invaluable insights into professional growth and the transition from journalism to public relations. This conversation is perfect for those pursuing career development in communications or seeking inspiration from leaders who thrive under pressure. CultivatED Marketer Ep. 38 — Leading with Empathy in the High-Stakes World of Public Service Communications with Jazzlyn Johnson Jazzlyn’s career began in journalism, where she quickly learned the power of storytelling in serving her community. Her move into public service communications revealed the unique challenges of government work, where internal and external communications play a critical role in maintaining transparency and public confidence. The shift from newsroom deadlines to navigating legal communications helped her understand how communication professional development can directly influence public perception and trust. Building Public Trust Much of Jazzlyn’s focus centers on combating misinformation and fostering understanding through strategic messaging and community outreach. She leads initiatives like the Understanding the Justice System video series, which bridges gaps between the public and the prosecutor’s office. For professionals focused on continuous professional development in marketing and communications, Jazzlyn’s approach demonstrates how effective messaging can transform complex topics into relatable, transparent stories that strengthen public trust. The Art of Crisis Communication When crises arise, communicators must remain steady, clear, and authentic. Jazzlyn shares how strong media relationships and emotional intelligence are essential tools in communication professional development. Her insights on handling public scrutiny, responding to misinformation, and maintaining composure under pressure offer a real-world perspective for those advancing their marketing professional development. Advice for Aspiring Communicators For those at the start of their communications careers, Jazzlyn encourages curiosity, mentorship, and resilience. She highlights how continuing professional development helps communicators evolve as they adapt to new technologies and media landscapes. Her advice: focus on building meaningful relationships, learn from mistakes, and seek mentors who challenge you to grow both personally and professionally. She also mentions how prominent a role mentorship has played in her career, specifically calling out her mentor Morgan Said, former Chief of Staff for Mayor Lucas of Kansas City.   Jazzlyn Johnson’s journey exemplifies the power of leadership and communication in public service. Her story is a reminder that professional development for communications professionals is not just about learning new skills – it’s about understanding how authenticity, empathy, and strategy intersect to build trust and inspire change.   You can connect with Jazzlyn Johnson on LinkedIn or the Jackson County Prosecutors office on Facebook or X.     00:00 Leading with Empathy with Jazzlyn Johnson 01:06 Early Career Transitions and High-Pressure Environments 02:56 The Importance of Empathy and Trust in Communications 06:18 Challenges and Strategies in Public Service Communications 06:41 Interview with Jazzlyn Johnson: Background and Career Insights 08:15 Lessons from Journalism and Public Service 14:25 Building Public Trust and Handling Misinformation 23:02 Advice for Young Communicators and Career Reflections 27:05 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    32 min

  3. 16 OCT

    CultivatED Marketer Ep. 37 — Great Communicators Secrets: Lessons from 4 Communication Leaders

    In the 37th episode of CultivatED Marketer – your go-to professional development podcast for marketing and communications professionals – hosts Brent Bowen, Matt Tidwell, PhD, and Julie Masson share the most powerful takeaways from recent guests — covering crisis communications, leadership, social media strategy, and professional growth. Together, they reflect on past guest conversations, offering listeners valuable lessons in marketing communications and career development. CultivatED Marketer Ep. 37 — Secrets Behind Great Communicators: Lessons from 4 Industry Leaders With the addition of Julie, everyone is bringing a renewed sense of focus to continuing professional development within the marketing and communications field. Julie’s fresh perspective has energized the dialogue around professional growth, inspiring marketers to think differently about their own communication professional development. The team plans to revisit and refresh key insights every few episodes, ensuring continuous learning and reflection. Lynn Zimmerman: Change in Communication Lynn Zimmerman’s episode delivered profound insights on internal communications and managing organizational change. Her expertise in change management underscored how communication professional development and effective strategy drive success in both nonprofit and corporate environments. Julie emphasized how Lynn’s advice applies to mission-driven organizations, reinforcing the importance of clear communication to support internal alignment and external impact. Fred Cook: Forecasting Change Fred Cook, director at the USC Annenberg Center for Public Relations, shared leadership lessons rooted in adaptability and continuous professional development. His reflections on mentoring future communicators highlighted the power of curiosity and creativity in career development. Fred’s belief in stepping outside comfort zones resonated deeply with the hosts and listeners alike, serving as a reminder that growth often starts with risk-taking. Amy Whitfield: The Art of Crisis Communications Amy Whitfield’s conversation centered on the complex, high-pressure world of crisis communications – a vital component of external communications strategy. She revealed how thoughtful planning and empathy work hand-in-hand during difficult moments, offering communicators an example of professionalism under pressure. Julie and Matt highlighted Amy’s insights as essential learning for those pursuing professional development for communications professionals. Valerie Morrow: Strategic Social Media Management Valerie Morrow of Dairy Farmers of America discussed how to align social media strategy with broader marketing communications goals. Her emphasis on data-driven storytelling, authenticity, and community-building offered actionable takeaways for marketers in the digital era. Brent also praised Valerie’s approach to focusing on strategy rather than trends – an important principle for anyone invested in marketing professional development. Looking Ahead: Exciting Guests and Conversations The CultivatED Marketer team looks forward to upcoming guests Jazzlyn Johnson and Perna Vierge, who will expand the discussion on communication professional development and career development. Jazzlyn, the director of communications for a local prosecutor’s office in Kansas City, will share advice for early-career professionals, while Perna Vierge from LinkedIn will unpack algorithm changes and effective engagement tactics for external communications.   Stay tuned for more inspiring episodes that challenge how marketing and communications professionals approach learning, leadership, and collaboration in today’s evolving industry.   00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 01:32 Meet the Hosts 01:45 Recap of Recent Guests 02:52 In-Depth Discussion on Lynn Zimmerman 12:38 Insights from Fred Cook 20:03 Crisis Communications with Amy Whitfield 26:06 Social Media Strategy with Valerie Morrow 33:52 Upcoming Guests and Future Episodes 36:04 Closing Remarks and Call to Action

    37 min

  4. 30 SEP

    CultivatED Marketer Ep. 36 — Data and Storytelling in Social Media: Valerie Morrow’s Playbook

    In the 36th episode of CultivatED Marketer – your go-to professional development podcast for marketing and communications professionals – hosts Brent Bowen, Matt Tidwell, PhD, and Julie Masson sat down with Valerie Morrow, Director of Social Media at Dairy Farmers of America. Valerie is a seasoned social media leader with nearly 15 years of experience, and explores with the group how marketing communications strategies can adapt in a fast-changing digital environment, integration of data and storytelling, the impact of AI on social media, and the evolving role of social platforms in SEO. Don’t miss Valerie’s expert tips on creating intentional content, building engaged communities, and managing social media strategies effectively. CultivatED Marketer Ep. 36 — Data and Storytelling in Social Media: Valerie Morrow’s Playbook Valerie’s career in social media may have chosen her, but her journey is marked by strategic foresight. While at the University of Central Missouri, Valerie began exploring how social media could fulfill business needs, discussions that laid the groundwork for her career in communication professional development. By consulting with marketing leaders, she identified an emerging opportunity: social media. As she puts it, the key was to be “solution-oriented” — a mindset that supports career development for anyone in the field. The Intersection of Data and Storytelling Valerie emphasizes the power of combining data analytics with storytelling. “They tell a complete story when brought together,” she says. At Dairy Farmers of America, where Valerie is the Director of Social Media, blending long-form storytelling with analytics has been transformative. By using both qualitative insights and strategic narrative construction, her team has revolutionized their marketing professional development efforts—shifting from long-form stories to dynamic video content that drives both internal and external communications. Focus, Not Fads: Strategy Over Tactics One constant in the social media world is change, whether it be platform algorithms or emerging technologies. Valerie encourages a focus on strategy rather than tactics. “Social strategy is more than just posting or chasing trends,” she remarks, advocating for purposeful engagement over mere presence. This aligns closely with the kind of continuing professional development that marketers and communicators need to thrive. By narrowing focus on what aligns with an audience and organizational goals, leaders can strengthen both internal communications and external reach. Staying Ahead with Community and Authenticity Despite the rapid evolution of social platforms, Valerie firmly believes the future lies in blending AI, community, and trust. AI is transforming content creation and analytics, but it cannot replace the human touch in storytelling. She underscores that brands must maintain authenticity to meet the growing audience demand for genuine connections. These insights are key for professional growth and for those pursuing continuous professional development in digital marketing and communications. Beyond operational insights, Valerie offers personal reflection, sharing that effective social media management involves asking “the right questions” to shape impactful strategies. This approach reflects the essence of professional development for communications professionals, reminding marketers to remain curious, adaptable, and intentional in their work. Looking Ahead to Social Media’s Future For those leading teams or embarking on personal development journeys in social media, Valerie suggests managing goals with intent and aligning them with broader organizational objectives. Her approach to layering innovation onto existing strategies is a blueprint for long-term success in marketing communications and career development. To gain further insights or connect with Valerie, she can be reached on LinkedIn. For those seeking excellence in social media and communication professional development, her journey and lessons provide invaluable guidance on how to thrive in today’s evolving digital landscape.   00:00 Introduction to Episode 36: Social Media Insights with Valerie Morrow 01:15 Pre-Interview Discussion: Highlights and Key Takeaways 07:22 Valerie Morrow’s Career Journey and Social Media Expertise 11:16 Blending Data and Storytelling in Social Media 17:42 Authenticity and Innovation in Social Media Strategy 18:27 Navigating the Ever-Changing Social Media Landscape 23:31 Galvanizing Friends for a Road Trip 23:52 Nostalgic Memories and Corn Nuts 24:23 SEO and AI: The New Symbiotic Relationship 25:47 The Evolution of Social Media Content 31:09 Challenges in Social Media Strategy 35:00 Future Trends in Social Media 37:26 Insights from a Master’s Experience 42:32 Effective Goal Setting and Team Management 46:44 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    48 min

  5. 16 SEP

    CultivatED Marketer Ep. 35 — Unconventional Professional Growth and Future Trends with Fred Cook

    In the 35th episode of CultivatED Marketer – your go-to professional development podcast for marketing and communications professionals – hosts Brent Bowen and Matt Tidwell, PhD are joined by PR legend Fred Cook, former CEO of Golin and current director at the USC Annenberg Center for Public Relations. He offers invaluable insights into leadership qualities he experienced through his remarkable career, and shares his experiences, his transition from PR to academia, and his vision for the future of the industry. This episode is a must-listen for communications and marketing professionals looking for fresh perspectives on leadership and continuous professional growth. CultivatED Marketer Ep. 35 — “Unconventional” Is the Key to Professional Growth according to Fred Cook Fred Cook’s journey is a testament to the value of diverse life experiences. Before ascending to the top of a leading PR firm, Fred’s unorthodox career path saw him working as a hotel doorman, teaching junior high school, and even starting a ride service for late-night revellers. These varied roles contributed significantly to his later success, as highlighted in his book, Improvise: Unconventional Career Advice from an Unlikely CEO. Fred emphasizes that real-world experiences cultivate creativity, courage, and confidence—crucial traits for anyone seeking career development in marketing and communications. Leadership Lessons from Iconic CEOs During his tenure as CEO of Golin, Cook worked with some of the most influential leaders, including Steve Jobs, Herb Kelleher, and Michael Eisner. Each had a distinct leadership style, yet shared common traits such as determination and risk-taking. Cook believes these qualities are vital for success and aims to instill them in his students, teaching them that leadership transcends personality and is rooted in relentless pursuit and resilience—insights that apply directly to professional development for communications professionals. The Importance of Adaptability and Trust Cook recounts his time working with international clients like Nintendo, highlighting the importance of persistence and adaptability. A pivotal moment came when, despite opposition, he successfully convinced Nintendo’s president to implement a marketing strategy that shaped their relationship for decades. This story illustrates how trust, adaptability, and clear external communications can forge long-lasting partnerships and drive success. Reinventing Corporate Culture with G4 Innovation has always been at the heart of Fred’s leadership. At Golin, he spearheaded a cultural shift to a more flexible structure known as G4, transforming how PR functions are organized and delivered. To underline his commitment, Fred famously got a tattoo of the G4 logo, a gesture solidifying the permanence and significance of the initiative. This bold move reflects his belief in more than just walking the walk, but inspiring others through action—a lesson in building stronger company culture through purposeful intentional communication. Transitioning to Academia: Inspiring Future Leaders After an illustrious career in PR, Fred transitioned to academia, driven by a desire to test the theories outlined in his book and to nurture the next generation of creative thinkers. At USC, he encourages students to venture outside their comfort zones, embrace new experiences, and cultivate a mindset of lifelong learning. He argues that reinvention is necessary for the evolving landscape of PR, with AI and digital transformations reshaping communication professionals development. Navigating the Future of PR As director of the Annenberg Center for Public Relations, Fred continues to drive forward-thinking initiatives. He underscores the need for continuing professional development, especially in understanding and leveraging AI. Fred suggests that young professionals who immerse themselves in emerging technologies will have a competitive edge in the job market. Despite the challenges facing the PR industry, including political polarization and evolving media platforms, he remains optimistic. Reflecting on trends like AI branding and the role of purpose-driven communication, Fred stresses the importance of adaptability and curiosity in shaping successful marketing professional development strategies. The report about generative engine optimization (GEO) will be featured in our notes soon. In the meantime, learn a bit more about GEO here. The Unconventional Path to CEO Fred Cook’s career serves as an inspiring blueprint for anyone navigating the complex world of communications. By embracing unconventional paths, fostering creativity, and committing to lifelong learning, Fred exemplifies the leadership qualities needed to thrive in ever-changing environments. His journey reminds us that success is less about following a traditional route and more about forging your own path and daring to be different—insights every communications professional can use to advance their career development and grow through continuous professional development.   00:00 Introduction to Fred Cook’s Unconventional Career 01:16 Fred Cook’s Background and Career Path 02:08 Insights from Fred Cook’s Book 03:16 Fred Cook’s Life Lessons and Advice 07:34 Fred Cook’s Work with High-Profile Clients 19:31 Fred Cook’s Innovative Leadership at Golin 22:46 Transition to Academia and Teaching 23:33 Balancing Two Careers: From CEO to Professor 24:18 Encouraging Bold Thinkers in PR 24:41 The Importance of Broadening Perspectives 26:57 Conformity vs. Individuality in the Workplace 29:41 Persistence Pays Off: The Ask the Captain Story 35:34 The Future of PR: AI and Polarization 44:33 Final Thoughts and Farewell

    47 min

  6. 2 SEP

    CultivatED Marketer Ep. 34 — Crisis Communications Secrets Every Marketing Pro Must Know with Amy Whitfield

    In the 34th episode of CultivatED Marketer – your go-to professional development podcast for marketing and communications professionals – hosts Brent Bowen, Matt Tidwell, PhD, and Julie Masson sit down with Amy Whitfield, a communications and crisis communications specialist who frequently works with churches and faith-based organizations. Amy’s journey into crisis communications was unplanned but became a cornerstone of her career. Her insights offer valuable lessons in marketing communications, internal communications, and career development for anyone navigating high-stakes communication challenges. This episode is a must-listen for communications and marketing professionals wanting to learn about crisis communications and how they intertwine with marketing communications strategies. CultivatED Marketer Ep. 34 — Crisis Communications Secrets Every Marketing Pro Must Know with Amy Whitfield Amy’s introduction to crisis communications came unexpectedly, but she quickly developed the instincts needed to manage chaos with clarity. Her political science background and denominational work helped her build a strong foundation in communication professional development, allowing her to guide organizations through sensitive moments while maintaining trust and credibility. Developing a Crisis Communication Plan Crisis communication, Amy explains, requires more than strategy—it demands practice, resilience, and continuous learning. Over the past decade, she has developed her “muscles” for crisis response through real-world experience in Southern Baptist Convention. For communicators committed to professional growth, she recommends resources such as Crisis Communications: A Case Book Approach and You’re It: Crisis, Change, and How to Lead When It Matters Most. These tools support continuing professional development and encourage a mindset of growth in high-pressure communication roles. Aligning Marketing Communications with Crisis Response One of Amy’s key takeaways is the need to align marketing communications with crisis messaging. Whether pausing campaigns, adjusting tone, or creating unified statements, organizations must balance marketing with internal and external communications. Amy emphasized that close collaboration between marketing and communications teams is vital for organizational reputation, especially when addressing external stakeholders. This integrated approach is also central to marketing professional development, teaching communicators how to adapt strategies across departments. Preparation and Crisis Response Strategies Preparation is at the heart of effective crisis management. Amy shared best practices in internal communications, including building a crisis response team, designating media liaisons, and mapping out communication channels. These strategies help organizations respond quickly, protect reputations, and maintain credibility with employees and external audiences alike. For those investing in professional development for communications professionals, mastering internal planning and execution is a key skill set. Keeping Humanity at the Core of Messaging Beyond tools and strategies, Amy reminds communicators to keep humanity at the center of crisis work. Empathy, compassion, and authenticity build trust with affected communities and teams. For professionals focused on career development in communications, cultivating these traits is just as important as mastering technical skills. Professional Development for Communications Professionals Amy Whitfield’s expertise illustrates why crisis communications is such a valuable area of focus in the broader field of marketing communications. Her advice reinforces the importance of preparation, alignment across internal and external communications, and continued investment in communication professional development. To learn more about Amy or connect with her work, find her on LinkedIn.       00:00 Crisis Communications with Amy Whitfield 01:19 Upcoming Episodes and Guest Lineup 02:04 Meet Amy Whitfield: Crisis Communications Expert 04:07 Diving into Crisis Communications 05:46 Amy Whitfield’s Journey into Crisis Communications 14:25 Common Crises in Nonprofits and Faith-Based Organizations 18:01 Preparing for a Crisis: Tips and Strategies 22:01 Collaboration Between Marketers and Communications Professionals 27:15 Continuous Learning and Final Thoughts 29:03 Conclusion and Where to Find More Information

    32 min

  7. 19 AGO

    CultivatED Marketer Ep. 33 — Effective Change Communication and Strategic Internal Comms with Lynn Zimmerman

    In the 33rd episode of CultivatED Marketer—a professional development podcast for communications professionals—hosts Brent Bowen, Matt Tidwell, PhD, and Julie Masson welcomed Lynn Zimmerman, CEO and Chief Strategist of Swing Communication. With over 25 years of experience in internal communications and change communication, Lynn shared valuable insights on managing change strategically and how effective marketing communications can support organizational success. This episode is a must-listen for professionals focused on continuing professional development in the fast-evolving world of corporate communications. CultivatED Marketer Ep. 33 — Effective Change Communication and Strategic Internal Comms with Lynn Zimmerman Lynn Zimmerman began her unexpected journey into the world of journalism and communications at the University of Kansas, where her initial focus was not on communication. However, after realizing her passion for business and communication, she pivoted to a career in strategic communications, eventually leading her to become a specialist in change communication. Her extensive experience includes roles at Sprint and T-Mobile, where she honed her skills in internal and change communication, ultimately founding her firm, Swing Communication in 2012. Understanding Change Communication Lynn defines change communication as the intentional, strategic messaging of information surrounding events that are temporary but disruptive, such as mergers, organizational restructuring, or technology rollouts. The goal, according to Lynn, is not to excite employees about change but to guide them towards acceptance and readiness to adapt. She emphasizes the importance of behavior change as the intersection of change communication, internal communication, and change management. Effective change communication ensures employees understand their roles and the impact of changes, fostering a smoother transition. The Strategic Role of Internal Communications in Organizational Culture Internal communication, as Lynn describes, plays a critical role in maintaining company culture and preparing organizations for change by reinforcing mission-driven messaging. By consistently communicating company values, vision, and mission, internal communications lay the groundwork for change readiness, ensuring that employees understand why changes occur and how they align with the company’s strategic goals. Common Communication Challenges and Career Growth Opportunities Lynn discusses common pitfalls companies face, including the outdated “spray and pray” method of communication, where information is disseminated broadly without regard for audience segmentation. She emphasizes the importance of understanding audiences, especially frontline employees, and tailoring communication strategies to meet varied needs. Highlighting the power of middle managers as trusted communication conduits, Lynn underscores the necessity of equipping these leaders with the proper tools through communication professional development. AI and the Future of External Communications With technology continually evolving, Lynn is excited about the potential of AI to transform both internal and external communications landscapes. She pointed out how AI can free communicators’ time for strategic tasks while cautioning against leaving AI implementation solely to IT departments. Instead, Lynn advocates for communicators to actively participate in AI discussions to ensure these tools are aligned with strategic communication goals. Building a Communications Career: Networking, Consulting, and Continuous Learning For those considering venturing into consulting or starting their own business, Lynn stresses the importance of networking. Her involvement with the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) has been pivotal in building relationships and gaining opportunities. Lynn believes that engaging with professional organizations, volunteering, and sharing knowledge freely are key to professional development for communications professionals. Elevating Your Professional Development in Marketing Communications Lynn’s expertise offers valuable lessons in the realm of change communication and internal strategy. From managing change to leading cultural transformation, communicators who invest in career development, continuing professional development, and strategic upskilling will continue to thrive. By understanding both the human and strategic facets of communication, organizations can navigate change more effectively and build resilient and adaptive workforces. As change continues to accelerate in today’s world, communicators serve as strategic partners in aligning business objectives with employee engagement, ensuring both short-term adaptability and long-term success.   Find Lynn Zimmerman on LinkedIn     00:00 Introduction and Welcoming Julie 00:38 Introducing the Guest: Lynn Zimmerman 02:05 Lynn’s Career Journey and Insights 05:24 From Corporate to Independent: Lynn’s Leap 11:46 Understanding Change Communications 22:10 Challenges and Strategies in Change Communications 29:57 Effective Communication Strategies for Managers 30:37 Challenges and Solutions in Internal Communications 31:41 The Role of Internal Comms in Organizational Change 34:51 Daily Tasks of a Change Communications Consultant 36:57 Networking and Professional Development 46:03 The Impact of AI on Communications 52:18 Final Thoughts and Personal Insights

    1 h

  8. 5 AGO

    CultivatED Marketer Ep. 32 — A New Voice in Nonprofit Communications with Julie Masson

    In the 32nd episode of CultivatED Marketer, hosts Brent Bowen and Matt Tidwell, PhD, are thrilled to introduce Julie Masson, a dynamic new voice and our newest co-host. With over 15 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, Julie brings a fresh perspective on career development and nonprofit communications. Her journey to becoming a fractional Chief Communications Officer and her deep-rooted passion for helping mission-driven organizations make her a perfect fit for our audience of communications professionals. CultivatED Marketer Ep. 32 — A New Voice for Cultivated Marketer and Renowned Thought Leader in Nonprofit Communications. Welcome Julie Masson! Brent and Matt enthusiastically welcome Julie to the CultivatED Marketer family. They reflected on the process of selecting a co-host who could elevate conversations around internal communications and marketing strategy. Julie’s professional background and commitment to communications excellence—particularly within nonprofits—aligns seamlessly with the podcast’s mission: to support ongoing professional development in marketing communications. Julie’s relationship with both co-hosts dates back to her time in the University of Kansas’ Integrated Marketing Communications master’s program. Now, as a communications leader, she brings a valuable perspective on how professionals can grow their careers across various sectors, especially in nonprofit and purpose-driven roles. Why Nonprofit and Internal Communications Matter Julie’s passion for nonprofit communications was evident from the start. She spoke about the communication challenges that nonprofit organizations often face—especially when it comes to internal communications. Whether it’s misalignment between staff and leadership or the absence of a clear external messaging strategy, Julie is dedicated to bridging these gaps. Her focus on improving both internal team dynamics and external stakeholder communication ensures nonprofits can effectively fulfill their missions. Supporting Career Development Through Fractional Leadership Julie’s career path—from education to nonprofit leadership to her current role as a fractional communications officer—highlights the importance of career development and flexibility in the evolving marketing landscape. She discussed how fractional leadership allows her to support multiple organizations that may lack full-time communications staff, helping them build solid marketing foundations, strategic plans, and consistent messaging for both internal and external audiences. Advice to Aspiring Communicators Julie shared her insights on why nonprofit work is a powerful launchpad for those pursuing careers in marketing communications. For young professionals interested in meaningful work and diverse experience, the nonprofit sector offers unique opportunities for professional growth. Julie emphasized how these roles often provide hands-on involvement in both internal and external communications—something that’s rare in more siloed corporate settings. A Shift Toward Purpose-Driven Work As Julie transitions into gig-based communications leadership, she reflects on how this shift supports not only her personal values but also her professional growth. The flexibility of fractional work has allowed her to focus on empowering smaller organizations and mentoring communications professionals—two things she sees as deeply connected to long-term success in the industry. A Communications Leader with Purpose Julie Masson’s addition to CultivatED Marketer signals a deeper commitment to exploring all facets of marketing communications, especially within the nonprofit world. Her expertise in internal communications, strategy, and leadership will help our listeners grow in their careers and strengthen their communication skills across the board.   Want more insights from Julie? Subscribe to her newsletter at juliemasson.com or connect with her on LinkedIn.   Stay tuned for upcoming episodes, including conversations with Lynn Zimmerman on internal communications and change management, and Fred Cook on building trust in external messaging.   00:00 Introduction to Cultivated Marketer 00:09 Meet the New Host: Julie Masson 00:29 Julie’s Professional Background 01:16 How Julie and the Hosts Met 05:51 Julie’s Journey in Nonprofit Communications 11:20 The Importance of Internal Communications 16:29 Benefits of Working in Nonprofits 19:19 Julie’s Transition to Fractional Leadership 24:07 Julie’s Live Training and Future Plans 27:11 Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes

    30 min
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  • Creador
    Cultivated Marketer
  • Años de actividad
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodios
    40
  • Clasificación
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  • Copyright
    © 2020 - 2025
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    CultivatED Marketer