The DINFOS Way

In this episode of The DINFOS Way, host Jack Rous sits down with master photojournalist Johnny Bivera to explore his decades-long career in visual storytelling across military and civilian arenas. Bivera reflects on his time in the U.S. Navy and his work documenting combat, humanitarian missions and high-level events, sharing what he learned about telling powerful stories through imagery. He also explains the origin and purpose of the DC Shoot Off Visual Media Workshops, an all-volunteer, not-for-profit educational program that helps military and civil service photographers sharpen their craft. Throughout the conversation, Bivera offers practical tips, techniques and perspective for today’s warfighting communicators, giving listeners ideas they can apply to their own visual storytelling.

In this episode of “The DINFOS Way,” host Jack Rous sits down with U.S. Air Force broadcaster and former DINFOS instructor Staff Sgt. Sarah Brice to bridge the gap between traditional public affairs and the modern creator economy. Brice shares how she balances life as a military communicator and professional cosplayer, and how foundational skills taught at DINFOS still drive engagement in today’s social media feeds. Listeners will hear practical tips for building authentic digital communities, understanding platform algorithms, handling negativity and turning short-form content into a force multiplier for their units. Whether you run a one-person public affairs shop or manage a large team, this episode offers actionable strategies to strengthen your unit’s online presence and connect with audiences who scroll first and ask questions later.

Award-winning cinematographer Drew Geraci, known for his stunning time-lapse work featured in productions like House of Cards, joins The DINFOS Way to share how he turned his passion for visual storytelling into a thriving career. From capturing time-lapse masterpieces to exploring the creative potential of AI, Geraci reveals his process, mindset, and advice for storytellers who want to push creative boundaries.

Step into the creative side of military communication in this episode of The DINFOS Way as graphic designer and DINFOS instructor Kate Cornell unpacks how design thinking, visual storytelling and fundamentals of layout, color and typography shape the way audiences receive information. From classroom to operational environments, Kate shares practical insights on collaborating with communicators, critiquing work with purpose and using design to support the mission, giving current and future military communicators tools they can apply on their very next product. Whether you are a new student, a seasoned PAO or a leader guiding creative teams, this conversation highlights how thoughtful design can amplify your message and better prepare tomorrow’s communicators for an evolving information environment.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!