The DINFOS Way

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

In the most recent episode of The DINFOS Way podcast, host Jack Rous interviews Colonel Dave Butler, the Strategic Advisor for Communications and Outreach for the Chief of Staff of the Army. Colonel Butler, a seasoned communicator and public affairs officer, discusses crucial topics such as communications strategy, information warfare, and the evolving role of public affairs officers. Tune in for valuable insights and best practices for effective communication in the military.

On this episode, Defense Information School instructor and show host Jack Rous has a conversation with three of Adobe’s public sector digital media solutions consultants about generative artificial intelligence. They discuss the creative tools Adobe has developed for its use in their products involving AI, their content authenticity initiative and the idea of content credentialing visual information products, and more examples of the practical applications of generative AI in the daily life of a professional communicator.

On this episode, Defense Information School instructor and show host Jack Rous sits down with the Chief of Community Relations at Joint Base Myer - Henderson Hall, Ms. Susan LeRoy. She’s a former DINFOS instructor and student, and she joins us to talk about what makes for a good COMREL program, how to build a successful and meaningful relationship between the community and the command, and some quality tips and tricks for future community relations specialists.

Host and DINFOS instructor Jack Rous interviews longtime Baltimore Sun Columnist, Dan Rodricks about his storied career and his advice for professional communicators at every level.

In this episode of The DINFOS Way podcast, DINFOS Instructor Jack Rous sits down with faculty members Tech. Sgt. Joseph Pagan and Melissa Weatherspoon to talk about the school’s mobile training teams (MTTs). Since March 2020, DINFOS MTTs have trained more than 1,200 students during 54 training events in public affairs, visual information and broadcast maintenance fundamentals for all military services, intergovernmental agencies, and our international partners. On this episode, we’ll learn more about who they are, what they do, and how they operate.

In the most recent episode of The DINFOS Way, DINFOS Instructor Bill Rehkopf talks to Marketing Strategist Mark Schaefer, a presenter at the 2023 DINFOS Social Media Forum about building and engaging with your organization's social media community.

In the most recent episode of The DINFOS Way, DINFOS Instructor Army Staff Sgt. Justin Kuhl engages in a conversation with Army Sgt. 1st Class Will Reinier, who previously served as the Public Affairs Advisor to the Sergeant Major of the Army. They discuss Reinier's concept of "Operationalizing Senior Leader Intent Through Social Media." Additionally, Sgt. 1st Class Will Reinier is announced as a presenter at the 2023 DINFOS Social Media Forum.

Dr. Bob Britten is a Professor at the Reed College of Media at West Virginia University. He teaches classes specifically focused on media and information literacy, and he is a strong advocate for incorporating these concepts in all courses that involve mass media communication. Dr. Britten, a guest speaker at the 2023 Social Media Forum, joins us in the studio to discuss misinformation and disinformation—an essential topic for today's communicators. Tune in as he explores the purpose of misinformation, emphasizes the significance of spotting disinformation for DOD communicators, and shares best practices for skepticism and credibility in the global information war.

Retired Marine Capt. Dale Dye, a decorated Vietnam veteran, author, director and 2022 DINFOS Hall of Fame inductee, sits with DINFOS instructor Marine Sgt. Anthony Pio to talk about his career and legacy within the Marine Corps, and how he brought his skills, knowledge and tenacity to Hollywood.