The DINFOS Way

Latest Episodes:

The DINFOS Way - Ep. 35 Mission, Mentorship and Media: Dr. Joe Trahan’s Path to the Hall of Fame Nov 26, 2025

Show notes

Step into a career-defining conversation on this episode of The DINFOS Way, as host Jack Rous sits down with Dr. Joseph “Joe” Trahan, a DINFOS graduate, retired Army Reserve lieutenant colonel and 2025 DINFOS Hall of Fame inductee to talk about what it takes to leave a lasting mark on the profession. With more than four decades of experience in uniform and as a trainer, Trahan has led public affairs teams, built media relations and crisis communication programs, and mentored thousands of communicators across the force. He reflects on the moments that shaped his journey, the evolution of military public affairs and the skills today’s communicators need to succeed, including credibility, adaptability and clear, purposeful storytelling in a demanding information environment.

The DINFOS Way - Ep. 34 Mission-Driven Narratives: Laura Martin's insights on Storytelling Sep 29, 2025

Show notes

Experience mission-driven storytelling with Staff Sgt. Laura Martin. Drawing on 17 years of experience in roles from radio DJ to broadcast producer, Martin shares actionable strategies for creating compelling narratives. Listen in as she discusses her journey as a DINFOS Intermediate Multimedia Course instructor while guiding communicators in mastering both narrative and non-narrative techniques. Explore practical lessons in building impactful stories, visual information, and multimedia methods, all woven together as this episode highlights how collaboration, creativity, and technology drive communication across multiple channels.

The DINFOS Way - Ep. 33 Voices of the Game: Baltimore Orioles Broadcaster Melanie Newman and the Art of Communication Sep 15, 2025

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Join us on The DINFOS Way Podcast as we chat with Baltimore Orioles broadcaster Melanie Newman! We delve into her inspiring career journey, broadcasting insights, and invaluable advice for aspiring communicators. Melanie shares her experiences, tips and tricks, and thoughts on the evolving communications landscape, offering a unique perspective for those looking to excel in the field.

The DINFOS Way - Ep. 32 Strategic Leadership in Action: A Conversation with Colonel Bocanegra Aug 22, 2025

Show notes

Colonel Jennifer Bocanegra, public affairs director for I Corps at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, joins the podcast to discuss strategic leadership and the evolving challenges facing military communicators. Bocanegra, a former DINFOS instructor and director of training, shares insights from assignments at the First Cavalry Division, NATO forces in Afghanistan and U.S. Special Operations Command. She talks about the role of communicators in the information space, how effective messaging can shape military outcomes, and the importance of balancing transparency, credibility and operational security. The episode covers her article from From the Green Notebook, “Leveraging Public Affairs for Information Advantage in Modern Warfare,” as she discusses the transformation of public affairs in the era of information warfare and lessons commanders can use to integrate public affairs into operational planning for long-term success.

The DINFOS Way - Ep. 31 Global Communicators: Enhancing Interoperability at DINFOS Jul 24, 2025

Show notes

Dive into the world of international military cooperation in this special episode of The DINFOS Way. Host Jack Rous explores the mission of the International Military Student Office (IMSO) and how it strengthens interoperability among allied forces through the Security Assistance Training Program. Listeners will gain insight into how the program fosters professional training, enhances communication skills, and builds partnerships that directly support U.S. and allied military readiness. Hear how the exchange of international perspectives enriches the learning environment at DINFOS while promoting a better understanding of operational standards and U.S. military values. Whether you’re a military communicator, a public affairs professional, or interested in global defense collaboration, this episode offers a compelling look at how DINFOS cultivates interoperability and builds bridges across defense communications worldwide.

The DINFOS Way - Ep. 30 DMA & DINFOS: Shaping Military Communications for the Future Jul 08, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of The DINFOS Way, host Jack Rous welcomes Col. Richard McNorton, acting director of the Defense Media Activity (DMA) and commandant of the Defense Information School (DINFOS). Col. McNorton shares his vision for shaping the next generation of military communicators, with a focus on people, training, and modernization. Discover how DMA and DINFOS are working together to meet the secretary of defense’s priorities and tackle the evolving challenges of military communication. Col. McNorton offers practical insights and real-world examples that highlight the essential role of communicators in today’s information environment. Don’t miss this engaging conversation packed with strategies, inspiration, and a look at the future of Defense Department communication.

The DINFOS Way - Ep. 29 Beyond the Lens: Tommy Gilligan's Path to Photographic Intent Jun 24, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of The DINFOS Way, we kick off a new series spotlighting the talented instructors at the Defense Information School and the courses they lead. Our guest is Tommy Gilligan, a former Navy Photographer's Mate and accomplished photo instructor. With experience at West Point and as a USA Today sports photographer covering teams like the Orioles and Ravens, Tommy brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. He shares insights from the photography portion of the Mass Communication Foundations course, offers practical tips for aspiring photographers, and discusses what it takes to thrive in this ever-evolving field. Join us for an engaging conversation packed with advice and inspiration for anyone interested in military communications and visual storytelling.

The DINFOS Way - Ep. 28 Inside DINFOS: Lt. Col. Angel Jackson on Shaping Tomorrow’s Military Communicators Jun 06, 2025

Show notes

Step inside the world of military communication leadership in this episode of The DINFOS Way. Host Jack Rous sits down with Lt. Col. Angel Jackson, Director of the Public Affairs & Communication Strategy Directorate, to explore how DINFOS is preparing the next generation of strategic communicators. Discover what goes into the Public Affairs & Communication Strategy Qualification Course at DINFOS, how it adapts to the digital landscape, and the impact of international perspectives in the classroom. Lt. Col. Jackson shares insights on course structure, foundational skills, and the evolving demands facing military leaders. Whether you’re a prospective student or a seasoned communicator, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the training, innovation, and real-world impact shaping the future of military public affairs.

The DINFOS Way - Ep. 27 Forging the Future Force: Communicating the Army’s Transformation with Col. Dave Butler May 12, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of The DINFOS Way, host Jack Rous sits down with Col. Dave Butler, Strategic Advisor for Communications and Outreach to the Chief of Staff of the Army, to unpack the sweeping transformation underway across the U.S. Army. Drawing on his vast experience as a communicator Col. Butler offers an insider’s perspective on the Army’s drive to become a leaner, more agile, and technologically advanced force. Topics discussed include how the Army is consolidating commands, embracing Multi-Domain Operations, and accelerating modernization; all while navigating the challenges of strategic communication in a rapidly evolving information environment. Whether you’re a military communicator, public affairs professional, or simply interested in the future of defense, this episode delivers insights and practical advice for leading through change. Don’t miss Col. Butler’s guidance for communicators at every level as the Army forges its path ahead.

The DINFOS Way - Ep. 26 Strengthening PA Partnerships: Maj. Evelyne Lemire on Canadian Insights and DINFOS Collaboration May 06, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of The DINFOS Way, host Jack Rous sits down with Maj. Evelyne Lemire, Officer Responsible for Training Design and Review at Canada’s Defence Public Affairs Learning Centre. Discover how DPALC shapes the next generation of Canadian Armed Forces public affairs professionals, the unique challenges and opportunities of training in a rapidly evolving media landscape, and what DINFOS and DPALC can learn from each other as allied institutions. From the impact of technology and AI to real-world lessons in crisis communication, Maj. Lemire shares insights and stories that will inspire communicators at every stage of their careers. Whether you’re curious about international partnerships or looking to sharpen your own PA skills, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways and fresh perspectives.

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