• 38 minutes 27 seconds
    Episode 36 - Marley Molkentin

    On this week's episode, Chris is joined by Marley Molkentin (Communications Specialist at Eidos LGBTQ+ Health Initiative), who helps tell stories that makes an impact. She has her Master of Arts from Columbia College Chicago, which made an incredible impact on her career and where she is today.

    Hot Topic for This Week's Episode: Creating Media and Content That Makes A Difference

    And of course, learn why Marley socials!

    Marley'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, and to foster 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.

    5 May 2026, 3:34 am
  • 34 minutes 4 seconds
    Episode 35 - Kaila Vander Horn

    On this week's episode, Chris is joined by Kaila Vander Horn (Head of Content at Speedwork) for a discussion about B2B content on LinkedIn. Kaila has more than a decade of experience in social media and digital marketing and we explore how she advanced professionally to where she is today, earning the trust of businesses and c-suite executives.

    Hot Topic for This Week's Episode: B2B Content and LinkedIn

    And of course, learn why Kaila socials on this week's episode of Why I Social!

    Kaila'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, and to foster 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.

    21 April 2026, 2:31 am
  • 44 minutes 40 seconds
    Episode 34 - Jason Schemmel

    On this week's episode, Chris has a conversation with Jason Schemmel (Get Social Done) who helps organizations operationalize AI across marketing, sales, and operations. His expansive background in social media and digital marketing opened the door for conversation across a variety of important topics not excluding the impact of AI on the newest members of the professional workforce. Key Highlights

    • How his work on Twitch help landed him employment (and why what you do outside of work matters)
    • How he got his start with HarperCollins
    • The positives and negatives of AI on the latest generation entering the professional workforce

    Plus, he breaks down one of his more recent successful ad-campaigns and why sometimes "results now" isn't an option.

    Hot Topic for This Week's Episode: Consumer Philosophy and Social Media

    And of course, learn why Jason socials on this week's episode of Why I Social!

    Jason'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, and to foster 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.

    6 April 2026, 10:51 pm
  • 35 minutes 51 seconds
    Episode 33 - A.J. Vitiello (Producer, Drew Binksy)

    On this week's episode, Chris has a conversation with A.J. Vitiello (Producer for Drew Binksy). From the origins of his role with Drew (thanks to Instagram) to YouTube tips and insights, Vitiello discusses what it's like to work as a content creator in the creator economy (YouTube specific). Key Highlights

    • How global travel and Instagram led to his role with Drew
    • Why there is more to a YouTube Hook than the first three-seconds
    • A deeper dive into the creator economy
    • What it's like to travel the globe (and manage a team of editors)

    Hot Topic for This Week's Episode: Working for a Global Content Creator and YouTube Best Practices

    And of course, learn why A.J. socials on this week's episode of Why I Social!

    Lexi'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, and to foster 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.

    16 March 2026, 7:49 pm
  • 34 minutes 32 seconds
    Episode 32 - Lexi Croisdale

    On this week's episode of Why I Social, Chris sits down with Lexi Croisdale (Director of Global Content Marketing, Varonis). Lexi is also one of the recently announced National Institute for Social Media Advisory Board Members. Key Highlights

    • How her early career experiences including internships, impacted her career success
    • Why she leads by example with LinkedIn
    • Why working in diverse industries has benefited her ability to deliver innovative content
    • Why she joined the National Institute for Social Media Advisory Board.

    Hot Topic for This Week's Episode: Employee Advocacy

    And of course, learn why Lexi socials on this week's episode of Why I Social!

    Lexi'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, and to foster 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.

    3 March 2026, 2:00 am
  • 34 minutes 17 seconds
    Episode 31 - Matt Bailey

    On this week's episode of Why I Social, Chris sits down with Matt Bailey (Digital Marketing Instructor, Trainer - SiteLogic Marketing) to discuss digital content creation and training. Key Highlights

    • How understanding software engineering benefited his career and the importance of "balance"
    • Slowing down to think through the best way to execute our content
    • Setting clear goals and considering analytics
    • Training leadership to drive better results

    Hot Topic for This Week's Episode: Training As A Tool To Fill Marketing Needs or Gaps

    And of course, learn why Matt socials on this week's episode of Why I Social!

    Mark'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, and to foster 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.

    16 February 2026, 9:43 pm
  • 44 minutes 30 seconds
    Episode 30 - Mark S. Babbitt

    On this week's episode of Why I Social, Chris sits down with Mark S Babbitt (Co-Author of "Good Comes First" and "A World Gone Social"). Key Highlights

    • Discussing writing "A World Gone Social" and "Good Comes First"
    • The evolution of his experience as an author and the "why" behind "Good Comes First"
    • Stories and lessons for executive leadership
    • Why workplace culture remains an important topic

    Hot Topic for This Week's Episode: Workplace Culture - You'll also learn more about his new podcast, "Mastering Workplace Culture."

    And of course, learn why Mark socials on this week's episode of Why I Social!

    Mark'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, and to foster 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.

    2 February 2026, 6:13 pm
  • 30 minutes 32 seconds
    Episode 29 - Mike Evans

    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

    • The role his time in the military has played in his professional life
    • How he began his career in sales
    • The origins behind his work with Mile High Huddle and Sports Illustrated
    • Why he chose to start Fan Day Nation

    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.

    20 January 2026, 2:43 pm
  • 25 minutes 38 seconds
    Episode 28 - Carrie Meconis

    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

    • The connection between stage management and organizational skills
    • The personal and mental health benefits of running
    • How Carrie began to work on leadership training
    • The importance of self-awareness and why it's an anchor for leadership

    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.

    29 December 2025, 6:32 pm
  • 40 minutes 20 seconds
    Episode 27 - Lasheen Williams (Tchallasheen)

    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

    • What is a cosplayer, and how did he got started
    • The process of content creation and collaboration
    • How he dealt with challenges coming with cosplay
    • How he uses cosplay to inspire his community
    • Building his brand on social media
    • The importance of education on social media (and why it can work)

    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.

    8 December 2025, 11:18 pm
  • 38 minutes 38 seconds
    Episode 26 - Chris Porter

    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

    • How he began his path to a career of a creative designer
    • Becoming a board game designer and publisher
    • Managing the time between his work as a creative designer and a publisher
    • What role failure has played in his life - and how it's helped him find success
    • Why building community is incredibly important
    • The power of hello and acknowledging others
    • How to create a great Kickstarter experience through customer service
    • The difference between honesty and transparency

    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.

    25 November 2025, 2:35 am
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