On this week’s episode of Why I Social, Chris sits down with Mike Evans (Founder, Fan Day Nation). Mike breaks down how he's tackled leading a start-up in Fan Day Nation and the way his military background has played a criticial part in his role as a leader. He also discusses the greatest challenges and rewards of working in a start-up.
Key Highlights
Hot Topic for This Week's Episode: The important role social media plays for young athletes
And of course, learn why Mike socials on this week's episode of Why I Social!
Mike's Links:
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 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 professionals.
Learn more about how you can advance your career at https://nismonline.org/
The Why I Social theme song was created by Benjo Beats and may not be used outside of this podcast.
On this week’s episode of Why I Social, Chris sits down with Carrie Meconis (Leadership Coach and Staff at New York University). From a career that began in theatre both on the stage and as a stage manager to her journey to becoming a leadership coach, Carrie offers invaluable insights to take you into 2026 and beyond.
Key Highlights
Hot Topic for This Week's Episode: Setting Goals and Planning Reflection
And of course, learn why Carrie socials on this week's episode of Why I Social!
Carrie's Links:
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 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 professionals.
Learn more about how you can advance your career at https://nismonline.org/
The Why I Social theme song was created by Benjo Beats and may not be used outside of this podcast.
On this week’s episode of Why I Social, Chris sits down with Lasheen Williams (Tchallasheen, IG - Cosplayer). Lasheen recounts his journey to becoming a cosplayer. You'll also learn how he has created a community of content creation opportunities from his experience as a cosplayer - and the opportunities cosplay has since afforded him.
Key Highlights
And of course, learn why Lasheen socials on this week's episode of Why I Social!
Lasheen's Links:
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 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 professionals.
Learn more about how you can advance your career at https://nismonline.org/
The Why I Social theme song was created by Benjo Beats and may not be used outside of this podcast.
On this week’s episode of Why I Social, Chris sits down with Chris Porter (Creative Director and Board Game Designer/Publisher for Chris Couch Games). Porter breaks down his journey to becoming a Creative Director and finding the best way for him - including his experience from both corporate to entreprenurial settings.
Key Highlights
And of course, learn why Chris socials on this week's episode of Why I Social!
Chris' Links:
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 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 professionals.
Learn more about how you can advance your career at https://nismonline.org/
The Why I Social theme song was created by Benjo Beats and may not be used outside of this podcast.
On this week’s episode of Why I Social, Chris sits down with Chris Alexander, Senior Director of Digital Communications at NYU School of Global Public Health. Chris has spent more than a decade in higher education and has experience as a podcaster, content creator and integrated marketer.
Key Highlights
And of course, learn why Chris socials on this week's episode of Why I Social!
Chris' Links:
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 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 professionals.
Learn more about how you can advance your career at https://nismonline.org/
The Why I Social theme song was created by Benjo Beats and may not be used outside of this podcast.
Did you know you can 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 Nikki Sunstrum, CCMP—a globally recognized leader who has developed and leveraged communications and engagement to create significant impact in both government and higher education.
Key Highlights
How her experience in government (including as an elected city council person for the city of Portland) impacted her professional perspective
Her experience as an industry leader in higher education
And of course, learn why Nikki socials on this week's episode of Why I Social!
Nikki's Links:
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 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 professionals.
Learn more about how you can advance your career at https://nismonline.org/
The Why I Social theme song was created by Benjo Beats and may not be used outside of this podcast.
Did you know you can get 30% off your first 3 months of Flowsend.AI using SOCIALCHRIS referral code. Sign up today.
In a very special episode of Why I Social, we explore the Power of AI. In three previous episodes, guests Theresa Portratz, Michael Katz and Maria Duran discussed their own unique perspectives and insights on the impact of AI.
Please take a listen to their full episodes at the links below (Spotify)
Theresa Potratz
Michael Katz
Maria Duron
Links (LinkedIn Profiles)
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 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 professionals.
Learn more about how you can advance your career at https://nismonline.org/
The Why I Social theme song was created by Benjo Beats and may not be used outside of this podcast.
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
And of course, learn why Celeste socials on this week's episode of Why I Social!
Celeste's Links:
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 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 professionals.
Learn more about how you can advance your career at https://nismonline.org/
The Why I Social theme song was created by Benjo Beats and may not be used outside of this podcast.
Did you know you can 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:
Read and Subscribe to the latest Why I Social Newsletter [LinkedIn]
Editorial Note: At the time of this recording, Chris calls the episode Why I Social's 20th of Season 2. This is, instead, episode 21.
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 professionals.
Learn more about how you can advance your career at https://nismonline.org/
The Why I Social theme song was created by Benjo Beats and may not be used outside of this podcast.
Did you know you can 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 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
And of course, learn why Casey socials on this week's episode of Why I Social!
Casey's Links:
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 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 professionals.
Learn more about how you can advance your career at https://nismonline.org/
The Why I Social theme song was created by Benjo Beats and may not be used outside of this podcast.
Did you know you can 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 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:
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 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 professionals.
Learn more about how you can advance your career at https://nismonline.org/
The Why I Social theme song was created by Benjo Beats and may not be used outside of this podcast.
Did you know you can 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 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 doesn't)
Why mentorship and curiosity are foundational to building a meaningful career
The most rewarding aspects of working in career services and the impact of truly seeing a student’s potential
And of course, learn why Chaim socials on this week's episode of Why I Social!
Chris' Links
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 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 professionals.
Learn more about how you can advance your career at https://nismonline.org/
The Why I Social theme song was created by Benjo Beats and may not be used outside of this podcast.
Did you know you can 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 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 also provides practical advice about:
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 being mentored by another human being."
And of course, learn why Chris socials on this week's episode of Why I Social!
Chris' Links
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 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 professionals.
Learn more about how you can advance your career at https://nismonline.org/
The Why I Social theme song was created by Benjo Beats and may not be used outside of this podcast.
Did you know you can get 30% off your first 3 months of Flowsend.AI using SOCIALCHRIS referral code. Sign up today.
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:
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 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 professionals.
Learn more about how you can advance your career at https://nismonline.org/
The Why I Social theme song was created by Benjo Beats and may not be used outside of this podcast.
Did you know you can 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 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 also provides practical advice about:
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 viral moments are rare. They're not something that are common."
And of course, learn why Maria socials on this week's episode of Why I Social!
Maria's Links:
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 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 professionals.
Learn more about how you can advance your career at https://nismonline.org/
The Why I Social theme song was created by Benjo Beats and may not be used outside of this podcast.
Did you know you can 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 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
Nick also provides practical advice about:
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 that I bring. And that means that you got to be able to talk to the guys that are the lowest guys on the job site, the guys that are sweeping up the floors, that are taking out the garbage, that are doing those things. But then you got to be able to walk right in and talk to the executive, talk to the CEO, talk to the project manager."
And of course, learn why Nick socials on this week's episode of Why I Social!
Jessica's Links:
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 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 professionals.
Learn more about how you can advance your career at https://nismonline.org/
The Why I Social theme song was created by Benjo Beats and may not be used outside of this podcast.
Did you know you can get 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 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, learn why Jessica socials on this week's episode of Why I Social!
Jessica's Links:
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 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 professionals.
Learn more about how you can advance your career at https://nismonline.org/
The Why I Social theme song was created by Benjo Beats and may not be used outside of this podcast.
Did you know you can get 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 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 community work and how he encourages young professionals to create impactful experiences.
And of course, learn why RJ socials on this week's episode of Why I Social!
RJ's Links:
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 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 professionals.
Learn more about how you can advance your career at https://nismonline.org/
The Why I Social theme song was created by Benjo Beats and may not be used outside of this podcast.
Did you know you can get 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 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:
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 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 professionals.
Learn more about how you can advance your career at https://nismonline.org/
The Why I Social theme song was created by Benjo Beats and may not be used outside of this podcast.
Did you know you can get 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 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:
Join The Why I Social Community Discord: https://discord.gg/GsB6rhHr
Read and Subscribe to the latest Why I Social Newsletter [LinkedIn]
Did you know you can get Get 30% off your first 3 months of Flowsend.AI using SOCIALCHRIS referral code. Sign up today.
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 professionals.
Learn more about how you can advance your career at https://nismonline.org/
The Why I Social theme song was created by Benjo Beats and may not be used outside of this podcast.
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.
- Parenting in the Digital Age: Reflect on the challenges and joys of parenting with social media, including the potential for positive educational experiences.
Learn why Tovah socials on this week's episode!
Tovah's Links:
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 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 professionals.
Learn more about how you can advance your career at https://nismonline.org/
Did you know you can get Get 30% off your first 3 months of Flowsend.AI using SOCIALCHRIS referral code. Sign up today.
The Why I Social theme song was created by Benjo Beats and may not be used outside of this podcast.
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:
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 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 professionals.
Learn more about how you can advance your career at https://nismonline.org/
The Why I Social theme song was created by Benjo Beats and may not be used outside of this podcast.
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:
Learn why Jenny socials on this week's episode!
Jenny's Links:
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 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 professionals.
Learn more about how you can advance your career at https://nismonline.org/
The Why I Social theme song was created by Benjo Beats and may not be used outside of this podcast.
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:
Learn why Sue socials on this week's episode!
Sue's Links:
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 confidence, credibility, and credentials while fostering a global community of practice and collaboration among social media professionals.
Learn more about how you can advance your career at https://nismonline.org/
The Why I Social theme song was created by Benjo Beats and may not be used outside of this podcast.
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:
Learn why Alex socials on this week's episode!
Dan's Links:
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 confidence, credibility, and credentials while fostering a global community of practice and collaboration among social media professionals.
Learn more about how you can advance your career at https://nismonline.org/
The Why I Social theme song was created by Benjo Beats and may not be used outside of this podcast.