About the Episode
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About the Episode:
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Mallory Willsea reunites with Seth Odell, CEO of Kanahoma, in a candid, unscripted conversation recorded live from the CASE conference in Los Angeles. From sponsoring a mechanical bull to building an AI-enabled agency, Seth dives into how Kanahoma is embracing artificial intelligence, transforming workflows, and preparing for a world where entry-level roles may be on the verge of extinction. This episode is equal parts insight and inspiration—and it might just change how you think about AI in higher ed.
Key Takeaways
- AI enablement is accelerating inside marketing agencies like Kanahoma, with six-figure investments in AI tools, workshops, and culture change.
- Three-phase AI implementation strategy—education, augmentation, supplementation—is helping teams use AI more strategically.
- Entry-level roles may be disappearing, but Seth believes there's opportunity for students and young professionals to become AI implementers and leaders.
- Simple AI hacks—like running client presentations through ChatGPT for feedback—are saving teams hours and improving deliverables.
- Adoption of tools like Whisper Flow is transforming how marketing teams prompt, brainstorm, and communicate faster than ever.
- Cultural buy-in, not just technical upgrades, is key to sustainable AI integration.
- Higher ed professionals must align their expectations with institutional realities—or consider “switching games.”
Episode Summary: What’s Happening with AI in Higher Ed Marketing?
How is Kanahoma integrating AI across its operations?
Seth shares a behind-the-scenes look at how Kanahoma is evolving into a truly AI-enabled agency. The shift isn't just about adopting tools—it’s about transforming culture. Through a three-part framework (education, augmentation, and supplementation), Kanahoma is training teams, testing workflows, and rethinking productivity. They've hired an AI implementer, hosted immersive workshops, and rolled out ChatGPT Teams across the company. Staff are now building and sharing AI workflows—like using AI to stress-test client presentations or automate meeting notes—while planning ambitious experiments, including AI-only video production. The key? Start small, integrate strategically, and focus on real value, not hype.
Are higher ed institutions catching up to AI's potential?
Seth has noticed a turning point: colleges are finally moving from curiosity to action when it comes to AI. In just the past few months, he’s fielded a dozen requests from institutions wanting to connect with AI-driven admissions services. Some want to understand what outreach looks like with AI-powered reps; others are asking how they can use these technologies internally. While higher ed still lags behind tech-savvy sectors, the appetite for experimentation is growing. Mallory and Seth agree—this moment feels eerily similar to the early days of social media, when digital natives had to convince the corner office to take notice. The difference now? The stakes—and the speed—are higher.
Is AI really replacing entry-level jobs?
The elephant in the room: are we heading for an AI-fueled employment crisis? Seth doesn’t sugarcoat it—he’s genuinely concerned about the long-term implications. But in the near term, he sees a massive opportunity. Today’s college students and early-career professionals have a chance to become AI specialists in industries that desperately need implementation support. Just like social media once created new pathways for young marketers, AI is poised to do the same—if people lean in, learn the tools, and become value creators. For higher ed marketers, this means coaching students not just for traditional roles, but for emergent, tech-infused opportunities.
What's a practical way to get started with AI?
One of the most actionable parts of the episode? Seth’s breakdown of simple AI workflows that are already saving Kanahoma time and money. A favorite tactic: uploading presentations into ChatGPT and asking it to critique them from a frustrated client’s perspective. Another winner: Whisper Flow, a voice-to-text tool that helps users create long-form AI prompts on the fly—perfect for emails, outlines, or even entire strategy docs. Mallory doubles down with her own tip: outsourcing the tone of client emails to ChatGPT, freeing her to focus on substance. These micro-use cases underscore Seth’s main point: start where you are, and keep experimenting.
Connect With Our Host:
Mallory Willsea
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea
About The Enrollify Podcast Network: The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!
Some of our favorites include Generation AI and Confessions of a Higher Education Social Media Manager.
Enrollify is produced by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
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