The DINFOS Way

Latest Episodes:

The DINFOS Way - Ep. 25 - Teeing Up Success: Balancing Golf and Military Service with 2nd Lt. Rachel Heck Apr 07, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of "The DINFOS Way," we sit down with US Air Force Reserve 2nd Lt. Rachel Heck, a standout amateur golfer and recent graduate of the Public Affairs Qualifications course at the Defense Information School. Lt. Heck shares her journey balancing her athletic career with her role as a public affairs officer. She discusses how her experiences in golf have influenced her approach to military communications and leadership. Tune in as we explore Lt. Heck's path from the golf course to serving in the Air Force Reserve.

The DINFOS Way - Ep. 24 - DINFOS PAVILION: Empowering Warriors in the Information Battlespace Mar 12, 2025

Show notes

Discover DINFOS PAVILION. In this episode of The DINFOS Way podcast, host Jack Rous and DINFOS Provost Mary O'Shea explore the resources available at pavilion.dinfos.edu. Learn how this free platform equips elite warfighters with essential tools for crisis response, strategic messaging, and mission-critical communication. From crafting powerful press releases to mastering Adobe software for impactful visual storytelling, PAVILION is your gateway to excellence in military communication. Tune in to discover how this innovative resource supports the DOD's focus on lethality, readiness, and winning the information war. Whether you're a seasoned communicator or new to the field, this episode is your blueprint for leveraging PAVILION to strengthen America's defense capabilities.

The DINFOS Way - Ep. 21 - DINFOS Director of Training Jan 27, 2025

Show notes

On this episode, we’ll explore key questions about the Defense Information School (DINFOS): Who are we, what courses do we offer, and why is our work here essential? To help answer these questions, we’re joined by Mr. Don Smith, Director of Training at DINFOS since 2019. Mr. Smith oversees a team of more than 200 instructors, including joint-service military members, Department of Defense (DoD) civilians, and contractors. Together, they provide education and professional development to over 1,500 students annually in public affairs and visual information, including military members, DoD and interagency civilians, and international students.

The DINFOS Way - Ep. 23 - Coast Guard Public Affairs Excellence: A Master Chief's Perspective Jan 24, 2025

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On this episode of The DINFOS Way, host Jack Rous welcomes Master Chief Charly Tautfest, the Coast Guard's sole enlisted E-9 Public Affairs specialist. In this compelling conversation, Master Chief Tautfest shares her expertise on the Coast Guard's unique public affairs mission and provides valuable insights for military communicators. From fleet communication strategies to emerging trends in military public affairs, this discussion offers an exclusive look into the specialized world of Coast Guard communication through the lens of one of its most accomplished leaders.

The DINFOS Way - Ep. 22 - “The Wizard” Ryan Hall Dec 02, 2024

Show notes

On this episode, Defense Information School instructor and host Jack Rous takes us on a field trip to 50/50 Martial Arts Academy in Falls Church, Virginia, to meet Ryan Hall—UFC fighter, Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt, and owner of the academy. Known as “The Wizard,” Ryan discusses his journey from reality TV fame on The Ultimate Fighter to competing on UFC pay-per-view cards alongside legends like Conor McGregor and Jon Jones. Ryan shares insights into the role of communication in his career, including media training, managing high-pressure situations, and connecting with audiences. He also offers lessons learned that apply to public affairs and military communicators. Don’t miss this engaging conversation on discipline, excellence, and the power of effective storytelling!

The DINFOS Way - Ep. 20 - Air Force Sports Outreach Program Oct 06, 2024

Show notes

On this episode, Defense Information School instructor and host Jack Rous welcomes a special guest: Katie Spencer. Katie currently serves as a public affairs officer in the Air Force Reserve and is a veteran of Operations Enduring Freedom and Freedom’s Sentinel. In her civilian role, she’s the Sports Outreach Program Manager for the Department of the Air Force. Most recently, she supported the Thunderbirds during their flyover at Super Bowl 58. Today, we’ll explore her unique role as a military communicator, and discuss her path to this position and plans for the program.

The DINFOS Way - Ep. 19 - ATSD (PA) Interview Sep 05, 2024

Show notes

On this episode, Defense Information School instructor and host Jack Rous welcomes a special guest: Chris Meagher, Assistant to the Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs. As the principal advisor on public information and the lead spokesperson for the Department of Defense, Mr. Meagher shares insights into his role, public affairs strategy, and his vision for the future of military communication. Don’t miss this in-depth discussion!

The DINFOS Way - Ep. 18 - Celebrating 60 Years Jul 02, 2024

Show notes

On this episode, Defense information School instructor and show host Jack Rous is joined by former DINFOS Public Affairs Officer and current instructor Pete Robertson to discuss our school’s upcoming 60th anniversary! We talk about the events and celebrations we’re having, the history of DINFOS, and where we’re heading in the future. Listen for some stories mixed in from current DINFOS instructors about their favorite school memories, and what our institution means to them.

The DINFOS Way - Ep. 17 - Big League Public Affairs Jun 03, 2024

Show notes

On this episode, Defense Information School instructor and show host Jack Rous sits down with Sean Hudson, the Washington Nationals Director of Military Affairs. He’s a former military communicator and public affairs professional who’s taken the lessons he learned in the service into the world of professional sports. Join us as they discuss what it’s like to run day-to-day PA for a major sports team, how to handle social media pitfalls and challenges at a worldwide scale, and some positive reminders of effective communications techniques and how our service skills are adaptable anywhere, even in baseball.

The DINFOS Way - Ep. 16 - IStorytelling Apr 30, 2024

Show notes

Our guest is New York Times bestselling author Jim Butcher. Mr. Butcher is the writer and creator of the Dresden Files, the Codex Alera, and the Cinder Spires book series. His immensely popular works have been printed and shared all over the world, and The Dresden Files books have been adapted into a tv show on the SyFy network and a tabletop role-playing game. Mr. Butcher is a master of the art of storytelling, and he joins us today to talk about short-form and long-form storytelling, and the keys to creating and maintaining a devoted audience.

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