Join colleagues from around the state each Thursday (unless otherwise noted) from noon to 1:00 pm (ET) through October 2, 2025. Contact Barbara Duke Sams at bsams@ipbs.org for the Zoom Meeting ID.
8/28/25
A Case Study on Navigating Fundraising in a Shifting Funding Environment
Take a deep dive into how WFIU created a magical moment during a pivotal time for public media. Join in the discussion as we learn about the direction a membership drive took that was outside of the normal fundraising timeframe, the collaboration within departments, the significance of a matching gift, the data from the drives, the community response, and how the staff rallied around the response that left the staff all in a state of humble affection! John and Amy have worked at multiple stations, participating in hundreds of pledges, and are eager to share how the approach to this drive was different, how it worked, the challenges, and how it emotionally impacted the station and staff going forward.
Session Facilitator: Becky Jessmer, WTIU/WFIU
Speakers/Presenters:
John Bailey, Broadcast Operations Director, WFIU
Amy O’Shaughnessy, Director of Development, WTIU/WFIU
9/4/25
Continuing the Mission of Public Safety
Public media organizations embrace their public safety mission and are focused on maximizing their broadcast spectrum to help keep the public safe in times of emergencies. Learn how Florida and South Carolina public media stations built FPREN (Florida Public Radio Emergency Network) and SCEIN (South Carolina Emergency Information Network). Partnering with federal, state, and local public safety, law enforcement and first responder organizations, public media stations connect these agencies with one another, with the public and with life-saving services. How stations are able to continue providing these services is vitally important to our local communities as we navigate challenging times.
Speakers/Presenters:
Randy Wright, Executive Director of Media and College Operations, University of Florida – WUFT-FM,
WRUF-AM/FM/TV, FPREN/SCEIN
Dr. Stephanie Cook, Assistant General Manager/Deputy Director at South Carolina ETV and Public Radio (SCETV).
9/11/25
No session.
9/18/25
Lesson from the City of Gratitude
In Peoria, Illinois, known as the City of Gratitude, there is a unique, privately funded, non-profit multi-disciplinary museum that receives no ongoing government funding for operations. With a mission to unleash the full talent and genius of every individual, the museum board and staff have transformed its focus from objects and exhibitions to people and community. The results have been astounding, a 1000%, or ten-fold, increase in annual unrestricted operating support over the last eight years. The Peoria Riverfront Museum has a story to share with us, and it is still being written.
Speaker/Presenter:
John D. Morris, Peoria Riverfront Museum
John D. Morris is the president & CEO of the Peoria Riverfront Museum, the only multidisciplinary museum of art, science, history, and achievement in the nation. He was appointed CEO by the museum board in 2017. Morris builds on three decades of success in teaching people the joy of giving and has helped steward gifts of more than $100 million for cultural and educational causes in the Peoria region.
9/25/25
Beyond the Lens: Advanced Video Production Ideas for Today’s Pros
Take your video storytelling to the next level.This session dives into advanced production techniques, smart shooting for post, and real-world tips for working with limited resources—all tailored for public media pros. A perfect session for anyone looking to sharpen their craft and stay inspired.
Speaker/Presenter:
Paul Wasowski, Executive Producer/Production Manager, PBS Michiana WNIT
Brenda Bowyer, PBS Michiana WNIT
10/2/25
Leading through Change and Adversity
Equip your organization with the tools and resilience to effectively navigate and capitalize on change. Shawn’s insights offer clarity, direction, and strategic agility, empowering you and your team to embrace challenges confidently.
Speaker/Presenter:
Shawn Collins, Founder of EXTEND GROUP and GiANT Worldwide Certified Consultant
Shawn Collins is a keynote speaker and business consultant with more than 20 years of leadership experience. He equips organizations to unlock their team’s potential by helping every individual understand, value, and express their voice. Collins is known for creating “aha!” moments that shift team dynamics, break down communication barriers, and build trust across organizations. His keynotes are engaging, interactive, and packed with practical takeaways.
Special thanks to the IPBS Professional Development Planning Committee!
Becky Jessmer, WTIU/WFIU; Carlin Beckman, WNIN Tri-State Public Media; Laura Porter, WNIN Tri-State Public Media; Lauren Chapman, IPB News; Mary Ducette, WTIU/WFIU; Melissa Davis, WFYI Public Media; Dr. Phil Hoffman, Ball State Public Media; Paul Wasowski, PBS Michiana; Mark Newman, IPBS; and Barbara Duke Sams, IPBS.