I am a communication expert, business interface professional, and forward-facing representative with over 35 years of experience in training, sales, media management, and public engagement. I excel at shaping internal and external communications, building community relationships, and representing organizations in public and business-facing roles. I drive productivity through process improvements, manage digital media and SEO strategies, and lead teams to measurable results. My career spans leading broadcast and digital media initiatives for municipalities and private entities, launching podcasts, producing content, and coaching teams. I have successfully guided public messaging during critical events like the COVID-19 response, grown economic development partnerships, and delivered cost savings and revenue growth through strategic planning and technology-enabled solutions.

Robert B. Hephner

I am a communication expert, business interface professional, and forward-facing representative with over 35 years of experience in training, sales, media management, and public engagement. I excel at shaping internal and external communications, building community relationships, and representing organizations in public and business-facing roles. I drive productivity through process improvements, manage digital media and SEO strategies, and lead teams to measurable results. My career spans leading broadcast and digital media initiatives for municipalities and private entities, launching podcasts, producing content, and coaching teams. I have successfully guided public messaging during critical events like the COVID-19 response, grown economic development partnerships, and delivered cost savings and revenue growth through strategic planning and technology-enabled solutions.

Available to hire

I am a communication expert, business interface professional, and forward-facing representative with over 35 years of experience in training, sales, media management, and public engagement. I excel at shaping internal and external communications, building community relationships, and representing organizations in public and business-facing roles. I drive productivity through process improvements, manage digital media and SEO strategies, and lead teams to measurable results.

My career spans leading broadcast and digital media initiatives for municipalities and private entities, launching podcasts, producing content, and coaching teams. I have successfully guided public messaging during critical events like the COVID-19 response, grown economic development partnerships, and delivered cost savings and revenue growth through strategic planning and technology-enabled solutions.

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Experience Level

Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Creative Services Specialist at Town of Pinetop-Lakeside
November 1, 2022 - Present
Manage internal and external communications for the town, ensuring clear and effective messaging. Coordinate business involvement in community events to foster collaboration and engagement. Designed, implemented, and currently operate the town’s Public Meeting broadcast system. Launched, produced, and oversee the creation of podcasts to enhance town communication efforts. Serve as the town’s lead for the town’s 5-year Economic Development Plan, driving strategic initiatives. Act as the town’s point of contact for the Chamber of Commerce and local businesses, fostering partnerships.
Owner/Founder at Birdman Media
January 1, 1999 - January 1, 2022
Founded and operated a podcast and digital media company promoting local events, activities, and businesses. Created and hosted engaging podcasts, driving community engagement and audience growth with over 1000 episodes. Managed digital reputation and implemented SEO strategies to improve visibility for local clients. Provided critical communication services for the local hospital during COVID-19, ensuring timely and accurate information distribution. Provided consulting services for sales, marketing, and training in the mobile electronics industry. Delivered strategic planning that decreased client expenses by 90% and increased sales by 20%.
Operations Manager - On-Air Talent at New Directions Media (KVSL)
August 1, 2013 - April 1, 2014
Managed day-to-day operations, including automation, billing, traffic, and advertising. Created and maintained 24/7 programming grids and automation systems. Developed "Mountain Talk," a scheduled live show, maintaining perfect timing since its launch.
Corporate Internet Director at Tate ’s Auto Group
May 1, 2012 - August 1, 2013
Directed website and IT operations for seven dealership locations. Launched new websites, increasing inventory display from 20% to 100% in 90 days. Oversaw IT installations for a $5.1M dealership, reducing costs by 60%.
Editorial Director at Carsound & Performance
January 1, 1999 - January 1, 2006
Managed editorial operations for multiple publications, including consumer and trade magazines. Reduced expenses by over $200K through digital process optimization.

Education

Bachelor of Music at Baldwin-Wallace College
January 11, 2030 - December 17, 2025

Qualifications

MSF RiderCoach
January 11, 2030 - December 17, 2025
Total Control Motorcycle Trainer
January 11, 2030 - December 17, 2025

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Government, Professional Services, Software & Internet, Education