In this special conversation, two of Leoni Consulting Group's team members, Social Media Lead Hillary Trussell and CEO Elana Leoni, Q2 is here—and it’s a whirlwind. In this timely episode, Elana Leoni, CEO of Leoni Consulting Group, and Senior Social Media Manager Hillary Trussell break down everything education marketers need to know right now: from federal budget cuts and district layoffs to the impact of AI, shifting conversations in education’s key phrases, and tightening sales cycles. They also dig into key Q2 events like ASU+GSV, NSBA, and ISTE, plus can’t-miss opportunities like Teacher Appreciation Month and graduation season. Whether you're planning campaigns or prepping your booth, this is your go-to guide for staying relevant, building trust, and getting results.
Read the transcript this episode.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
Georgetown’s Edunomics Lab: Mentioned in the context of recent school layoffs and the strategic budget decisions districts are making. You can follow their work on how funding impacts staffing and operations:
Matt Tower, Whiteboard Advisors & The Ed Sheet: Cited for his data on EdTech funding trends, especially the stat that 60%+ of early-stage
NAEP Scores: The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) was called out for its data on declining math and literacy performance. While federal education research has taken a hit, these scores are still a critical reference point when making the case for student outcomes.
Richard van der Blom: Mentioned as a go-to expert on LinkedIn strategy and content. His insights on before-during-after content posting at conferences are worth checking out if you’re looking to improve event ROI and personal brand presence.
LCG’s EdTech Planner: Our free, annually updated planner includes key conferences, holidays, appreciation weeks, and evergreen marketing opportunities. It’s currently being updated but you can email us at hello@leoniconsultinggroup.com or message us on LinkedIn to request the 2024 version before the new one drops.
LCG’s Free Conference Social Media Checklist: If you’re attending conferences like NSBA or ISTE this spring and summer, don’t go in without a plan. Use our checklist to show up with purpose and amplify your impact online. We’ll link it in the show notes or send it your way if you reach out.
Elana Leoni, Host
Elana Leoni has dedicated the majority of her career to improving K-12 education. Prior to founding LCG, she spent eight years leading the marketing and community strategy for the George Lucas Educational Foundation where she grew Edutopia’s social media presence exponentially to reach over 20 million education change-makers every month.
Hillary Trussell, Guest
Hillary has over 10 years of experience in social media marketing management and consulting. Seven of those years were dedicated to higher education, where she promoted services, resources, and events to help students stay engaged and connected throughout their collegiate experience. She is passionate about helping brands make their services and resources known through online platforms. She also enjoys her time in the classroom as a Business Communications Adjunct Instructor at Tarleton State University. In her spare time, Hillary stays inspired and expresses her creativity through home decor. She also enjoys spending time with her five-year-old son and three-year-old daughter, and her husband.
About All Things Marketing and Education
What if marketing was judged solely by the level of value it brings to its audience? Welcome to All Things Marketing and Education, a podcast that lives at the intersection of marketing and you guessed it, education. Each week, Elana Leoni, CEO of Leoni Consulting Group, highlights innovative social media marketing, community-building, and content marketing strategies that can significantly increase reach, relationships, and revenue.
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