Why I Social

On this week’s episode of Why I Social, Chris has a conversation with Celeste Russell (SMS), who serves as social media manager for the National Institute for Social Media and OMCP. Russell has worked her way from intern to her current role at the organization and even has the opportunity to work with the current class of interns in her present role.  [Editorial Note: The previous episode left in a bit of audio that was not originaly intended for the final episode. An update was made on 9/23 at 9:30 p.m. to the audio shared]  Key Highlights What it has meant to go from intern to her current role in the organization The value of the internship experience and what it means to build a strong internship program Why her experience in theatre has benefited her career as a marketer  And of course, learn why Celeste socials on this week's episode of Why I Social! Celeste's Links:  LinkedIn Learn more about Flowsend  Get 30% off your first 3 months of Flowsend.AI using SOCIALCHRIS referral code. Sign up today

On this week’s episode of Why I Social, Chris sits down with Philip Wilkerson (Podcast Producer, Employer Engagement Consultant) to discuss his podcast (Positive Philter) and his role as Employer Engagement Consultant at George Mason University in Career Services. Philip's interest in connecting with people helped him develop criticial skills that allowed him to launch his podcast in 2017.  This week's business topic: Building A Brand as a Practioner  Key Highlights The unique challenges in developing new skills and why it is important to pursue professional growth How Philip collaborates to develop, build, and promote his podcast The idea of "failing forward" and building RESILIENCE   The importance of kindness  And of course, learn why Philip socials on this week's episode of Why I Social! Philip's Links:  LinkedIn Positive Philter  Learn more about Flowsend  Get 30% off your first 3 months of Flowsend.AI using SOCIALCHRIS referral code. Sign up today. Read and Subscribe to the latest Why I

On this week’s episode of Why I Social, Chris sits down with Casey Cornell (Founder - The Pool Journals and OPE Brands) to dig into the life of a consultant in the gig economy. From building brands to customer loyalty, Casey has been involved in every aspect of the marketing experience - before becoming founder of his own consulting business.  Key Highlights A deep dive into the gig economy and life as a consultant The gamification of social media  The importance of customer loyalty in marketing  The pros, cons and challenges of start-up life  The value of organic social and referrals in closing business deals  And of course, learn why Casey socials on this week's episode of Why I Social! Casey's Links:  LinkedIn Learn more about Flowsend  Get 30% off your first 3 months of Flowsend.AI using SOCIALCHRIS referral code. Sign up today. Read and Subscribe to the latest Why I Social Newsletter [LinkedIn] About our sponsor: The National Institute for Social Media (NISM) empowers marketing professio

On this week’s episode of Why I Social, Chris sits down with returning guest Ryan Pena (Senior Marketing Leader, NMDP), a digital strategist and educator with a passion for helping individuals and organizations tell their stories more effectively through social media and emerging technologies. He expands upon what he's been up to since his original appearance on Why I Social - and more about his role as Senior Marketing Leader at NMDP.  Key Highlights Why starting as a self-taught marketer fueled his curiosity and built the foundation for his social media expertise. Why storytelling, done well, can cut through even the noisiest online spaces The importance of building genuine relationships, not just “connections,” online And of course, learn why Ryan socials on this week's episode of Why I Social! Ryan's Links:  LinkedIn Learn more about Flowsend  Get 30% off your first 3 months of Flowsend.AI using SOCIALCHRIS referral code. Sign up today. Read and Subscribe to the latest Why I Social Newslette

On this week’s episode of Why I Social, Chris sits down with Chaim Shapiro, a career services professional, speaker, and LinkedIn strategist with a deep passion for helping others navigate their professional journeys. Chaim shares the winding road that led him into career services—despite being told not to pursue a career in education and explains why talking someone out of their passion can be one of the biggest disservices you can do. Key Highlights Why a visit to Universal Studios’ backlot tour became a surprisingly profound (and slightly depressing) moment How Chaim’s early love for sports didn’t translate into a career—but helped shape how he helps others explore overlooked opportunities The importance of helping people create new opportunities—even in industries and roles that don’t exist yet How adaptability has been key to his work in career development and higher education Chaim also provides practical advice about:  Using LinkedIn effectively and what changes he loves (and a few he does

On this week's episode of Why I Social, Chris speaks with Chris Fitzpatrick (Chris Fitzpatrick Speakes). Chris shares his journey from college to becoming a sought-after speaker and HR expert, exploring the intersection of social media, talent acquisition, and mentorship. Key Highlights Chris's evolution from student government president to HR professional and public speaker The transformative power of active listening in communication and relationship-building How social media has revolutionized talent acquisition and job searching  Chris also provides practical advice about:  Leveraging social media effectively in your job search and career development The importance of mentorship in personal and professional growth Owning your career and treating yourself as the CEO of your personal brand Quoteables: On The Value of Mentorship  "Mentorship can change somebody's life. We can all be mentors and we can all be mentored. I've never met anybody who has so much experience that they could never benefit from b

In this special episode of Why I Social: Listen to a live conversation with this year's 2025 Internship Class for the National Institute for Social Media.  Key Discussion Points:  • The challenges of wearing multiple hats in social media roles • How internships shape career paths and open unexpected doors • The importance of strategy in creating meaningful content • Why networking remains crucial for securing opportunities • The evolving landscape of social media best practices Connect with the 2025 Internship Class on LinkedIn: Alexis Barth - https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexis-barth/   Cassandra Hultgren - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cassandra-hultgren/   Jennifer Ready - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer2ready/   Kassity Lee - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kassity-lee/   Liliana Marquez - https://www.linkedin.com/in/liliana-marquez-04lm/   Read and Subscribe to the latest Why I Social Newsletter [LinkedIn] About our sponsor: The National Institute for Social Media (NISM) empowers marketin

On this week's episode of Why I Social, Chris speaks with Coach Maria Duron (Professional Trainer, Consultant and Google Coach). Maria shares her road to becoming a Google Coach and shares more information about how search has evolved - from SEO to AI.  Key Highlights Maria's "squiggly" career path through rural America's marketing landscape The creation of Brand Chat on Twitter in 2009 Her role in Google's small business outreach program Maria  also provides practical advice about:  Adapting to AI-driven conversational search The importance of consistency over viral moments in marketing How AI is transforming content visibility and credibility Why "hope is wonderful to have, but it's a poor strategy" in business Quoteables: On Consistency in Marketing "That is the boring part of marketing that people don't understand. They want the sexy silver bullet, what can I do to fix this and get that flash and excitement and become viral? Well, as everybody knows here who's done any training in social media, those

On this week's episode of Why I Social, Chris speaks with returning guest Nick Cicero (Founder, Mondo Metrics). Nick previously appeared on the podcast in 2015 (listen here) and has since sold his first start-up and now serves as founder of Mondo Metrics, an expert data consultancy and analytics software platform designed to transform fragmented metrics into actionable insights.  Nick discusses his experiences as a founder, investing in other businesses, and the journey to creating a new company. He also breaks down the value of data, including how to optimize across multiple digital media platforms.  Key Highlights The Evolution of Content Distribution The Power of Consolidated Analytics Rethinking Monetization Strategies Nick also provides practical advice about:  Overcoming Data Fragmentation Adapting Content for Different Platform Leveraging Data for Monetization Quoteables: "You're never too big to pick up a broom. And that is one of the things that has always stuck with me. In every role th

On this week's episode of Why I Social: Chris speaks with Jessica Malnik (JessicaMalnik.com), who works with Founders and Heads of Marketing to build messaging systems with a focus on compound revenue over time. She has a heavy focus on conversion copywriting, amongst other critical services she offers her clients.   Key Highlights Conversion Copywriting: Jessica specializes in conversion copy and focuses on influencing decisions and building brand awareness through strategic messaging. - AI in Marketing: AI is a powerful tool, Jessica notes, describing it as an "incredible sparring partner" for marketers. She emphasizes its potential to enhance, not replace, human creativity. - Business Ownership Mindset: Transitioning from employee to business owner requires a mindset shift. Jessica stresses the importance of taking responsibility for all business aspects. Quoteables: - "Even if you are just freelancing... you need to make that shift between nine to five employee and a business owner."  And of course, l

On this week's episode of Why I Social: Chris speaks with R.J. Thompson, Manager of Multimedia and Digital Strategy (Health Sciences) at University of Pittsburgh. He is a dynamic figure in higher education marketing and nonprofit leadership.  Key Highlights: - Innovative Social Media Strategy for Nonprofits: RJ shares insights from his work with Bellevue Forward, emphasizing storytelling through social media without a budget. He highlights the power of engaging local communities to amplify their narratives. - Higher Education and Teaching Philosophy: Discover RJ's belief in every moment as a learning opportunity. He discusses his graphic design background and how creativity fuels problem-solving in education. - LEGO Certifications and Community Projects: Explore RJ's LEGO certifications and his collaboration with Carnegie Mellon University. Learn how LEGO serves as both a stress reliever and a tool for engaging neurodivergent children. - Community Involvement and Leadership: RJ reflects on his motivations for

On this week's episode of Why I Social: Chris speaks with Michael Katz, Founder and CEO of Flowsend. From an internship in China, learning experiences at Qualtrics to founding Flowsend - Michael has run into the fire to create new opportunities for himself personally and professionally. Learn why Michael socials on this week's episode!  Key Highlights: - - Michael Katz's Career Journey: Michael shares his experiences from an internship in China to his transformative time at Qualtrics. - AI in Content Creation: Michael discusses AI as a "thought partner," enhancing creativity and helping overcome writer's block - AI for Social Media Managers: Michael highlights how AI tools can save time and boost efficiency, allowing managers to focus on creativity and authenticity. Michael's Links:  LinkedIn Learn more about Flowsend  Get 30% off your first 3 months of Flowsend.AI using SOCIALCHRIS referral code. Sign up today. Join The Why I Social Community Discord: https://discord.gg/GsB6rhHr Read and Subscribe to

On this week's episode of Why I Social: Chris Barrows sits down with Growth Marketer Theresa Potratz. Teresa shares her journey from social media specialist to growth marketing director. She also discusses how AI is transforming content creation and strategy - and gives insights into her unique podcast, "Unhinged History."  Learn why Theresa socials on this week's episode!  Key Highlights: - Evolution of Social Media Marketing: Discover how AI has revolutionized the industry, shifting from manual processes to efficient, AI-assisted methods. Theresa shares insights on the balance between AI tools and human oversight. - Growth Marketing Strategies: Theresa defines growth marketing and shares her career journey, emphasizing the importance of diverse skills in creating effective strategies. - "Unhinged History" Podcast: Learn about Theresa's podcast, which brings unique historical events to life, and how she leverages social media to expand its reach with a focus on Tik Tok.  Theresa's Links:  LinkedIn UnHinged

On this week's episode of Why I Social: Chris Barrows sits down with Tovah Kopan who shares her journey from law school to legal technology. She also shares his experience creating community - both in her community and through the Go Boldly Initiative - as well as how to balance multiple roles from career to personal life.  Highlights of the discussion include:  - From Law to Legal Tech: Tovah shares her journey from aspiring lawyer to finding her niche in legal tech, emphasizing the importance of staying "legal adjacent." - The Go Boldly Initiative: Explore Tovah's efforts in community building through her podcast and initiatives, creating spaces for connection and growth. - Social Media's Role in Community Engagement: Discover how social media transforms community engagement, especially in areas lacking traditional news sources. - Balancing Multiple Roles: Tovah discusses managing her career, podcast, and community initiatives, sharing strategies for effective time management and content creation. - Parent

On this week's episode of Why I Social: Chris Barrows sits down with Tim Sohn, a social media consultant and cancer survivor. Tim shares his inspiring journey from a decade in journalism to becoming an independent consultant. He discusses the creation of "Perspectives on Cancer," a community offering support to cancer patients, survivors, and their families. Highlights of the discussion include:  - From Newsrooms to Social Media: Tim's transition from journalism to social media consulting, driven by a need to educate businesses in rural Pennsylvania. - Consulting Success: Insights into client relationships and defining success in social media strategies. - Building Community: The story behind "Perspectives on Cancer" and its impact on connecting people through shared experiences. - LinkedIn's Unexpected Role: How LinkedIn became a platform for personal connections and community building. Learn why Tim socials on this week's episode!  Tim's Links:  LinkedIn Tim's Book, Perspectives On Cancer Join The Why I

On this week's episode of the Why I Social Podcast, Chris speaks with Jenny Li Fowler, Director of Social Media Strategy at MIT. Jenny has spent nearly two decades in digital marketing with more than a decade in Higher Education. Her experience in working with organic social media led to her writing "Organic Social Media - How To Build Flourishing Online Communities".   Highlights of the discussion include:  Building a career in Higher Education The power of community and organic social media The experience of writing and promoting a book Why working social media groups - work.  Learn why Jenny socials on this week's episode!  Jenny's Links:  LinkedIn Organic Social Media - How To Build Flourishing Online Communities Join The Why I Social Community Discord: https://discord.gg/GsB6rhHr Read and Subscribe to the latest Why I Social Newsletter [LinkedIn] About our sponsor: The National Institute for Social Media (NISM) empowers marketing professionals to elevate their social media expertise through indus

On this week's episode of the Why I Social Podcast, Chris speaks with Sue Serna, Founder of Serna Social. Sue began her career as a journalist and has since become an expert in social media governance, security, and risk. She also served as the head of global social media at Cargill.  With a focus on smart, safer social media - you'll learn more than a few tricks of the trade from Sue.  Highlights of the discussion include:  Recommendations on tools to keep your social media platforms safe Insights into experiences as a hiring manager for social media roles Why journalism experience translates into effective social media managers Learn why Sue socials on this week's episode!  Sue's Links:  LinkedIn 8 Takeaways from the NISM 2024 Social Media Job Study Serna Social Website Serna Social Blog Join The Why I Social Community Discord: https://discord.gg/GsB6rhHr About our sponsor: The National Institute for Social Media (NISM) empowers marketing professionals to elevate their social media expertise through

On this week's episode of the Why I Social Podcast, Chris speaks with Alex Hultgren, fractional CMO and author. From Ford's leadership program to his career as a fractional CMO, Hultgren offers a wealth of knowledge that will help inspire others as they look to build their career. His book "The Three Knows" - which came out in January 2025 - distills everything you need to know down to three fundamental questions: do you know your customer, do you know yourself, and do you know your funnel (e.g. your go-to-market execution).  Highlights of the discussion include:  His experience with Ford's leadership program Developing his career growth through soft skills and why they matter How to transition from contributor to manager The benefits of working independently  The Three "Knows" of Marketing  Learn why Alex socials on this week's episode!  Dan's Links:  LinkedIn The Three Knows (Amazon) Join The Why I Social Community Discord: https://discord.gg/GsB6rhHr About our sponsor: The National Institute for So

On this week's episode of the Why I Social Podcast, Chris speaks with Dan LaToracca, who currently serves as Marketing Director at Zoomph. Dan's previous work includes social and leadership roles with the Carolina Panthers and the Carolina Hurricanes.  Highlights of the discussion include:  Building a career in the sports media industry  What he's learned in his role as an adjunct teacher  How the sports industry has drastically changed since he began his career The expected and unexpected in content preparation The importance of data in sport's social media - and how to build multiple pieces of content from major moments  Learn why Dan socials on this week's episode!  Dan's Links:  LinkedIn Zoomph Join The Why I Social Community Discord: https://discord.gg/GsB6rhHr About our sponsor: The National Institute for Social Media (NISM) empowers marketing professionals to elevate their social media expertise through industry-recognized certification. NISM provides comprehensive training designed to build con

On this week's episode of the Why I Social Podcast, Chris speaks with a three-time guest on the podcast dating back to 2015 as Casie Shimansky returns to podcast. Shimanksky's experience in social media and the digital marketing profession offers a wealth of knowledge. Highlights of the discussion include:  How to successfully manage a layoff A decade worth of social media changes  How she has raised nearly 200k for childhood cancer research  and much more... Learn why Casie socials on this week's episode!  Casie's Links:  Instagram  LinkedIn St. Baldrick's Foundation (FB) Join The Why I Social Community Discord: https://discord.gg/PgHcZNfK About our sponsor: The National Institute for Social Media (NISM) empowers marketing professionals to elevate their social media expertise through industry-recognized certification. NISM provides comprehensive training designed to build confidence, credibility, and credentials while fostering a global community of practice and collaboration among social media profes