About the Episode
About the Episode: We're joined by Kevin Renton of Electric Kite and Volt, live from the 2024 CUPRAP conference. Mallory and Kevin talk about running content networks in higher education, with a focus on bringing marketing and enrollment professionals actionable insights and forward-thinking strategies.
Key Takeaways:
- Volt's Origin and Vision: Kevin discusses Volt's transition from an agency blog to a leading marketing magazine and its future content direction.
- Live Conference Coverage and Community Engagement: A discussion on breaking down barriers and offering insights into conferences to those unable to attend.
- Artificial Intelligence in Higher Ed Marketing): The importance of AI safety and policies on campuses to ensure responsible use.
- Enrollify's Growth and Content Expansion: Mallory outlines Enrollify's expansion and new initiatives, including webinars and blogging.
The Evolution of Volt and Its Content Strategy
Kevin Renton shared the journey of rebranding his agency to Electric Kite and how the Volt magazine emerged from a desire to separate the agency’s higher ed blog into its own independent platform. With the rebranding now complete, Volt is poised to refocus on content production, conference collaborations, and even the possibility of launching a timeless print magazine. Kevin highlighted the importance of creating "sticky" content—whether it’s through print or digital formats—that higher ed marketers will want to revisit and reference repeatedly.
Volt is also doubling down on live conference coverage, which brings real-time value to those who can’t attend events. Kevin emphasized how this approach increases access to industry insights, raises conference profiles, and fosters deeper engagement in the higher ed community.
The Role of AI in Higher Ed Marketing and Safety
AI continues to dominate conversations in higher ed, and Volt is keen to play a role in advancing the dialogue. Kevin pointed out that while tools like Element 451 are leading the charge in AI-driven marketing solutions, institutions need to pay closer attention to AI safety. From protecting personal student data to training staff on appropriate AI usage, Kevin called for clearer guardrails and policies that empower exploration without compromising ethics or security.
Mallory echoed this sentiment, sharing her experience with institutions beginning to create VP-level positions for AI oversight and developing AI policies to guide campus-wide adoption. Both agreed that 2024 will likely see AI safety become a higher ed priority.
Diversifying Content for Maximum Engagement
One of the key themes of the conversation was the need to meet audiences where they are. Mallory highlighted Enrollify’s growth since its acquisition by Element 451 in late 2023, including expanding its podcast network from 8 to 16 active shows and introducing new content types like blogs, webinars, and live panels. Kevin agreed that diversifying content formats helps cater to different audience preferences, from podcast binge-listeners to quick blog readers.
Kevin also shared an example from his own content consumption habits, explaining how bite-sized podcast episodes help him decide whether to commit to a full-length episode. He encouraged higher ed marketers to experiment with how they “cut up” content to better serve their audiences.
Higher ed marketing is evolving rapidly, and this episode offers actionable ideas for staying ahead of the curve. Whether you’re looking to revamp your content strategy, build awareness around AI safety, or create meaningful partnerships at industry conferences, Kevin and Mallory provide a blueprint for success.
Connect With Our Co-Hosts:
Mallory Willsea
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea
Seth Odell
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell
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 made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
Connect with Us at the Engage Summit: Exciting news — Mallory will be at the 2024 Engage Summit in Raleigh, NC, on June 25 and 26, and we’d love to meet you there! Sessions will focus on cutting-edge AI applications that are reshaping student outreach, enhancing staff productivity, and offering deep insights into ROI.
Use the discount code Enrollify50 at checkout, and you can register for just $99! This early bird pricing lasts until March 31.
Learn more and register at engage.element451.com — we can’t wait to see you there!
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