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March Parking Professional Spotlight 

Leigh Thomas

March 2025

TPN hired Chyloe Marr and me around the same time, and we bonded quickly. We were the rookies of the team and mildly alarmed at the stunning complexity of the parking industry. We both left the education world and joined TPN with the foolish notion that parking was simply stripes on the pavement, painted in varying colors that required attention.  

Thankfully, Chyloe (pronounced "Shy-low") is not only savvy and industrious but also smart and courageous and has become an expert on how the marketing world intersects with the parking industry. TPN publishes a monthly podcast (Season 2 rolls out in early March 2025) and a monthly newsletter (sign up here). While all the staff at TPN contribute regularly to the publications, Chyloe's dark magic makes the content attractive and arrive consistently in your inbox. This month, I am using my Spotlight Feature to give our readers and listeners a chance to get to know our indomitable producer!  After chatting about raising kids, our family's unusual and opposite dietary choices, and our upcoming booth at BOMA 2025, we finally got to the part about parking, which I'll share with you: 

Leigh: What have you learned about the parking industry from your work in marketing and communications for TPN? 

Chyloe: In my work in marketing and communications for TPN, I've gained valuable insights into the dynamic nature of the parking industry. It's an ever-evolving sector that requires constant adaptation to new technologies to improve efficiency and user experience. 

Through engagement with industry professionals via our podcast, blog, and newsletter, I now understand the importance of customer-centric solutions and how critical it is to stay ahead of trends. Also, the industry's complexity has shown me the value of clear communication to make technical innovations accessible and engaging to diverse audiences. 

Also, my role really highlights the importance of storytelling and showing the human side of the industry—whether through spotlighting professionals or sharing success stories—to build connections and foster a sense of community within the sector. The Parking Professional Spotlight is the most popular article in our newsletter each month! 

Leigh: What experiences or skills made you suited for marketing work?  

Chyloe: Surprisingly, my background in education has provided me with a unique skill set that has translated well into marketing. As a former teacher, I have strong communication and organizational skills, which are essential for creating clear, structured messaging and managing multiple projects simultaneously. My ability to explain concepts in an accessible way (even to Leigh, my spreadsheet friend) has been invaluable in crafting content that resonates with diverse audiences. This foundation in education has given me a versatile approach, allowing me to create meaningful connections and impactful campaigns. 

Leigh: I understand that. My background in education has also strangely equipped me for the rigor and energy of the parking industry! What advice do you have for parking industry marketing professionals? 

Chyloe: As someone new to the parking industry and still growing in my role, I advise other professionals to embrace continuous learning and stay curious. The parking industry is multifaceted and constantly evolving, so taking the time to understand its nuances and keep up with trends can make a significant difference. Don't be afraid to ask questions and seek guidance from experienced colleagues—it's a great way to build your knowledge and confidence. 

Additionally, focus on understanding your audience. Effective marketing in this industry involves tailoring messages to various stakeholders, from customers to industry professionals. You can refine your strategies and create more impactful campaigns by listening to feedback and observing what resonates. Remember, growth takes time, and every new challenge is an opportunity to learn and improve. 

Leigh: Speaking of new challenges, what do you enjoy about producing the podcast? Do you have a favorite episode? 

Chyloe: I truly enjoy producing the podcast because it allows me to connect with industry experts and share their valuable insights with our audience. It's rewarding to explore the diverse aspects of the parking industry and learn about the innovative solutions we implement to meet all the unique needs. The process of creating each episode—from planning and recording to editing and publishing—gives me a sense of accomplishment, knowing we're contributing to industry knowledge and fostering conversations. 

My favorite episode is "Parking Perspectives: Inside the Challenges and Solutions of University Campus Management." In this episode, Bob Harkins offers an in-depth look into the complexities of managing parking on university campuses. I appreciated how he highlighted the importance of building strong relationships with various campus departments and technology's role in streamlining operations. His discussion on balancing the needs of different user groups and the significance of effective communication really resonated with me, as it underscores the multifaceted nature of parking management in such a dynamic environment as a university. 

Leigh: TPN has recently started producing a Newsletter. What is the challenge of producing that each month, other than wrangling the easily distracted TPN team toward deadlines?  

Chyloe: Producing ParkPulse each month presents the challenge of consistently delivering engaging and informative content. It requires careful planning to ensure a variety of topics are covered, from industry trends to spotlighting professionals, while maintaining a cohesive narrative. Balancing these elements within the deadlines can be demanding, but seeing the positive response from our readers makes it all worthwhile. 

Leigh: Is there anything specific you'd like our readers to look for in that publication? 

Chyloe: I recommend paying special attention to the Parking Professional Spotlight, which highlights the achievements and insights of key industry figures. Additionally, the Product Focus and Podcast Highlight sections are packed with valuable information about the latest innovations and in-depth discussions that can provide a broader understanding of the parking world. We aim to make each issue of ParkPulse a rich resource for industry professionals. 

Leigh: Thank you, Chyloe! 

The people in the parking industry make it great, and Chyloe Marr is no exception. TPN is grateful she found her way to us, and our readers exclaim each month how much they value the content she produces. Don't hesitate to find us on our socials if you're interested in receiving TPN's resources each month! 

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