• Andy Johns

  • Podcasts

    Using SMS Messaging to Improve Your Google Reviews

    What You’ll Learn In a rare double-Andy podcast, Andy Henderson outlines a text messaging campaign that took his telco’s Google review score from the 2s to the 4s. Guest Speaker Andy Henderson Show Notes Transcripts have been lightly edited for clarity and readability. Intro: A production of Pioneer Utility Resources. StoryConnect, helping communicators discover ideas […]
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    Andy Johns
    May 1, 2026
  • Podcasts

    Building Relationships Between CSRs, Sales and Techs

    What You’ll Learn The relationships between staff on the front line of your operation are critical — and sometimes difficult. Tim Gilford shares ideas on formal and informal ways to build strong connections among CSRs/MSRs, techs, marketing and sales team members. Guest Speaker Tim Gilford Show Notes Transcripts have been lightly edited for clarity and […]
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    Andy Johns
    May 1, 2026
  • Podcasts

    Tips for Shooting Better Video

    What You’ll Learn With her background as a television news journalist, Melissa Lanzourakis has a strong understanding of how to shoot good video. As online video trends continue to evolve, she shares new tips for shooting better video. Guest Speaker Melissa Lanzourakis Show Notes Transcripts have been lightly edited for clarity and readability. Intro: A […]
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    Andy Johns
    May 1, 2026
  • Podcasts

    How to Be A Better Public Speaker

    What You’ll Learn Author and speaker Erick Rheam discusses how people who like public speaking — and those who don’t — can improve their skills to be a better communicator. Learn more about Erick and his book at erickrheam.com. Guest Speaker Erick Rheam Show Notes Transcripts have been lightly edited for clarity and readability. Intro: […]
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    Andy Johns
    May 1, 2026
  • Blog

    Our Story is Your Story: Pioneer Reports Financial Strength, Member Growth and Election Results

    At Pioneer’s 2023 Cooperative Member Meeting, staff and co-op members shared how Pioneer grows brands, strengthens staff and shares member stories. Five new board members were introduced, and 46 members were welcomed to the communications co-op. The meeting’s theme, Our Story is Your Story, reflects how Pioneer’s growth is led by the membership.
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    Andy Johns
    April 19, 2026
  • Podcasts

    How Can Storytelling Be Your Brand’s Competitive Edge?

    What You’ll Learn Mary Miller, Marketing and Communications Manager for West Carolina Tel, shares ideas from her panel on how broadband providers using ideas like those presented in Donald Miller’s StoryBrand framework can gain a competitive advantage in marketing and in understanding the customer journey. Guest Speaker Mary Miller Show Notes Transcripts have been lightly […]
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    Andy Johns
    May 1, 2026
  • News

    Beyer, Cherry, Huckeby elected to Pioneer Board; Lock and Johnson return

    In May, five Utility Pioneers were elected to represent your voice on Pioneer’s Board of Directors. Learn more about returning board members Dave Lock and Lisa Johnson, and meet new members Marshall Cherry, Carrie Huckeby and Kevin Beyer.
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    Andy Johns
    May 22, 2026
  • News

    Utility Pioneers Vote for Leadership Ahead of Cooperative Member Meeting

    Ready to cast your vote for cooperation? Five Utility Pioneers have been nominated to represent your voice on Pioneer’s Board of Directors. Member delegates can learn how to cast your vote, and then save your virtual spot for Pioneer’s Cooperative Member Meeting on May 25!
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    Andy Johns
    May 14, 2026
  • Podcasts

    Cutting-Edge Technology — The PR Value of Smart Mowers

    Central Georgia EMC has deployed 18 smart mowers to save money on a landscaping contract. Seeing the autonomous mowers working on the grounds started community conversations and further positioned the co-op as a technology leader for electrification and smart products.
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    Andy Johns
    May 14, 2026
  • Podcasts

    How Can A Podcast Help Your Utility Tell Its Story?

    What You’ll Learn Jones-Onslow EMC uses its “Flippin’ The Switch” podcast to build community around its brand by sharing a mix of community stories and discussions of utility-related topics. Learn how they do it and how the podcast fits into the overall communications plan. Tune into “Flippin’ The Switch” here: https://joemc.com/news/podcasts-2 Podcasts recorded live at […]
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    Andy Johns
    May 1, 2026
  • Blog

    Wanted: Your Ideas via the Pioneer Pulse Survey!

    Share your ideas and insights in the Pioneer Pulse! Help us identify helpful content, communication challenges and evolving needs. As a thank-you, we’re giving away one Pioneer-branded Solo Stove to a lucky Utility Pioneer who shares her or his ideas on the 35-question survey! Learn how you can help strengthen your communications co-op.
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    Andy Johns
    April 19, 2026
  • Podcasts

    How Can the Smart Rural Community Designation Differentiate Your Brand?

    After receiving NTCA's Smart Rural Community designation, LightStream co-branded it with their own brand everywhere to underscore the value of their service.
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    Andy Johns
    May 14, 2026