This episode is all about district visits—what they are, why they work, and how to make the most of them. When a policymaker walks your halls, meets your people, and hears the stories firsthand, it changes everything.

Today, we’re diving deep into something that can revolutionize your advocacy work: the psychology of persuasion. You know, after working with advocates in 47 states, I’ve learned that the most successful advocates aren’t necessarily the loudest or the most passionate – they’re the ones who understand how the human mind works when it comes to making decisions and changing opinions. Let me ask you something: Have you ever shared a powerful fact—something you knew was right—and still failed to convince someone? You’re not alone. Advocacy isn’t just about having the right information—it’s about getting people to say ”yes.” And that takes persuasion. In this episode, we’re diving into the psychology of persuasion—what makes people listen, what moves them to act, and how you can make your message stick. If you’re ready to take your advocacy to the next level, you’re in the right place.

Let’s face it—we live in politically polarized times. But in this episode, we’re not going to complain about it. We’re going to work through it. Because if we truly want to make a difference—at the local, state, or federal level—we need to know how to navigate the divide, stay focused on our message, and build bridges instead of walls.

We’re counting down the Top 10 Things Elected Officials and Their Staff Hate to Hear. These are the things that make meetings go sideways, cause eyes to roll, or guarantee your message won’t land the way you want. Think of this as your what NOT to say guide. Because knowing how to communicate effectively also means avoiding the landmines.

Today, we’re diving into something foundational: The Top 10 Tips for How to Advocate. Whether you’re just getting started or have been meeting with lawmakers for years, these 10 principles will strengthen your approach, sharpen your strategy, and help you make a bigger impact. These aren’t theoretical tips—they’re tested, practical, and proven in real-world advocacy work.

In today’s digital world, advocacy isn’t just happening in government chambers or behind closed doors. It’s happening online. Social media is a powerful tool that can amplify your message, rally supporters, and even influence policymakers. In this episode, we’ll explore how you can craft compelling content, build an engaged audience, and use digital platforms to drive real policy change. Ready to supercharge your advocacy?

In this episode, we’re dialing into one of the most underestimated tools in advocacy—the phone call. Yes, emails and letters are valuable—but when time is short and a decision is looming, nothing beats a well-timed, well-prepared phone call to an elected official. It’s fast, direct, and impactful. Today, I’ll guide you through the when, why, and how of calling your lawmakers—and how to make every minute of that call count.

Whether you’re a seasoned advocate or a first-time visitor to the Capitol, meeting with lawmakers can feel intimidating. But fear not! With the right approach, you can make a lasting impact. In this episode, we’ll break down the keys to a successful advocacy meeting—from preparation to execution and follow-up. We’ll share proven strategies to ensure your message is heard, your ask is clear, and your influence is felt.

Today, we’re talking about turning personal experience into legislative action. Some of the greatest policy changes in this country started not with politicians—but with everyday people who were moved to act. This episode is all about how to transform your passion into policy—and your personal story into public impact. Let’s start with this powerful truth: Your story is your superpower. You may think advocacy is all about data, white papers, and legal language—but what truly moves people is human connection. It’s your lived experience that lawmakers remember. Stories stick.

They say facts tell, but stories sell—and that couldn’t be more true when it comes to advocacy. Lawmakers hear statistics all day long, but a well-told story? That’s what moves them. That’s what makes them remember. So today, we’re talking about how to craft a compelling advocacy story that will captivate your audience and inspire action.

Today’s episode is about something that many passionate people struggle with at first—how to ease into the political arena. Maybe you’ve wanted to reach out to an elected official or get involved, but the thought of doing so felt a bit… intimidating?

Today’s guest is an author, leader, mission driven executive, podcaster, and an unabashed advocate for the future of agriculture and the people that educate those that feed us.

”As we paused to look back four score, to honor and reflect on the brave allied soldiers that liberated a continent, my mind advanced to November evaluating the reality that lies ahead for America’s future. I am battling to find the right words to express my concern for the governing institutions of our nation.” Commentary from Roger Rickard, President and Founder of Voices in Advocacy.

Discover the power of advocacy in the medical world with Adam Levy, CAE, the executive director of the American Cleft Palate Craniofacial Association (ACPA). In this enlightening episode of the Voices in Advocacy podcast, Adam shares his journey of leading ACPA through strategic planning amidst a pandemic, fostering partnerships for better patient care, and advocating for legislative change. Tune in to hear how Adam’s leadership is shaping the future of cleft and craniofacial care and learn how you can be an effective voice for change in your community.

Nine years ago, life threw our next guest a curve ball when she learned during her pregnancy that her baby would be born with a facial birth defect. Come with us as we learn about her fascinating journey that has led her to help other families by speaking out as an author and advocate. ABOUT the GUEST Amy Mendillo, MM, MPP, is a writer, author, and advocate. She has worked as a consultant on state-level (RI) Medicaid and social service issues, an advocate for local- and city-level policy, and as a writer-editor for the American Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Association. She holds a Master of Public Policy from Brown University.  Amy started as a professional classical musician, studying oboe at the Oberlin Conservatory and Northwestern University. Described as “prodigious” by the Chicago Tribune, Amy played in professional symphony orchestras in Chicago, Milwaukee, and New York City, then taught music at Brown University for ten years. A proud cleft parent and adoptive parent, Amy lives with her family in Providence, RI.   Thank you to our sponsor: Rap Index, tell them Roger sent you. https://www.rapindex.com   This podcast is dedicated to the art of advocacy. Contact Voices In Advocacy at: www.VoicesinAdvocacy.com 480 488-9150 At Voices in Advocacy, we work with organizations that want to inspire, educate, engage, and activate their supports to become even better effective, influential advocates.

Join us as we explore the importance of advocating with today’s guest - the Director of Advocacy Engagement for the well-known organization – who is committed to supporting policies and initiatives that make a positive impact on the lives of children and adults living with neuromuscular diseases.

Today we speak to the leader of an organization that has received more than $250 million dollars voluntarily from the nation’s leading distillers to fight drunk driving and underage drinking and promote responsible decisions about beverage alcohol. Stay tuned as we learn about their dedication to advocacy.    ABOUT the GUEST Chris Swonger serves as the President & CEO of both the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS) and Responsibility.org. Responsibility.org was founded in 1991 and has received more than $250 million dollars voluntarily from the nation’s leading distillers to fight drunk driving and underage drinking and promote responsible decisions about beverage alcohol. DISCUS is the leading voice for distilled spirits in the U.S. market and serves as the industry’s advocate in state capitals, the nation’s capital and foreign capitals around the globe. Chris has extensive experience guiding corporations to lead in business while playing a positive role in communities through proactive engagement. In this capacity, Chris focuses on breaking down the traditional barriers that exist between corporations, non-government organizations and activist groups by facilitating consensus-based outcomes which are deliverable, actionable and measurable. A native Texan, Chris received his bachelor’s degree from Texas Tech University and lives in McLean, Virginia, with his wife Amy and their two sons Holden and Beckett Boone. Chris’ favorite drink? Bourbon on the rocks.   Thank you to our sponsor: Rap Index, tell them Roger sent you. https://www.rapindex.com   This podcast is dedicated to the art of advocacy. Contact Voices In Advocacy at: www.VoicesinAdvocacy.com 480 488-9150 At Voices in Advocacy, we work with organizations that want to inspire, educate, engage, and activate their supports to become even better effective, influential advocates.

Today we speak to the leader of an organization that empowers young adults to advocate for higher education, health care, and economic policies.

Whistleblowers have been at the top of the news lately. Today’s special guest is the founder of the leading nonprofit dedicated to protecting and rewarding whistleblowers around the world. You do not want to miss this episode as we explore the importance of advocating for stronger whistleblower protection laws and educating the public about whistleblowers’ critical role in protecting democracy and the rule of law.

Today’s guest is the Grassroots and Constituent expert for the well-known organization - whose mission is to honor and empower wounded warriors. Join us as we explore the importance of advocating for our wounded servicemen and women.