Whether you're a team of one or part of a larger communications staff, this workshop is packed with practical ideas you can use right away. Explore how AI can help you create more content in less time, learn simple techniques for capturing better photos and videos with your phone, discover how to use data to measure what matters, and exchange ideas with peers during an interactive roundtable discussion. You'll leave with fresh inspiration, new skills, and actionable strategies to strengthen your agency's marketing efforts.
Date: Wednesday, October 28, 2026 from 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Location:
Merriam Community Center, 6040 Slater St, Merriam, KS 66202
CEUs: 0.3
Schedule:
9:00 AM Registration
9:30 AM - 11:45 AM Creating Content with a Click: Turn One Idea into Dozens with AI
Speaker: Beth Z, Your Nerdy Best Friend
You don’t need to start from scratch every time you create content. With AI, one well-crafted prompt can turn into a blog post, social media updates, videos, graphics, newsletters, and even a podcast—all in a fraction of the time it used to take. Join Your Nerdy Best Friend, Beth Z, for a hands-on session where you’ll see AI in action as it transforms a single idea into a full-blown content strategy. From marketing campaigns to thought leadership pieces, you’ll discover how AI tools can streamline your workflow, boost engagement, and keep your brand visible—without the burnout. If you want to work smarter, not harder when it comes to content creation, this session is for you!
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM Lunch
12:30–1:10 PM – Photography Tips (using your phone and more)
Speakers: Shana Appelhanz, Wichita Park & Recreation, Kate Kincaid, Shawnee Park & Recreation, Jacob Buchanan, Shawnee County Parks + Recreation
Build confidence using your phone to create better photos and videos for your agency's marketing. In this session, experienced parks and recreation professionals will share practical tips and easy techniques to help you capture more engaging content for social media, websites, and other promotions. You'll leave with ideas you can start using right away.1:10–1:50 PM – At the Heart of Data: A Strategic Look at What Moves the Needle
Speaker: Cody Kennedy, Chief Communications and Marketing Officer for the City of Olathe
Not all metrics are the same. This session explores how organizations can identify data that truly matters and use it to drive meaningful outcomes for their community. Participants will learn how leading with empathy, humanizing their organization and workforce, and tailoring communication strategies to the unique needs of their audience can result in higher-quality engagement and more actionable insights. After all, finding your "why" begins with understanding your "how."
1:50–2:00 PM – Break
2:00–3:00 PM – Roundtable Discussion
Speaker:
Meet Your New Nerdy Best Friend... 
