Intimidating. No matter how often you do it. No matter how second-nature it may seem. No matter how much you practice. No matter what, public advocacy is intimidating. Yesterday, I had to do the uncomfortable part of that work by testifying in front of the Ohio House of Representatives’ Armed Forces and Veterans Affairs Committee.Continue reading “What’s It Like Testifying On A Bill?”
Category Archives: Advocacy
Why I Threw Away Talking Points in Advocacy
When I went on active duty, the conflict in Iraq had reached its high point. The dominant tactic from enemy forces on the ground had shifted, employing a devastating tactic: improvised explosive devices. Accordingly, our training was geared toward preparing us to think about the battle space in a different way – a way thatContinue reading “Why I Threw Away Talking Points in Advocacy”
Don’t Confuse Your Social Media Post with Effective Advocacy
Yesterday I spent the better part of five hours watching real Americans do something incredibly uncomfortable: testifying in public before a Congressional committee. This wasn’t one of those highly visible, controversial hearings where partisan hackery dominates the agenda. No, this was a hearing for a subcommittee focused on agricultural issues and they were debating theContinue reading “Don’t Confuse Your Social Media Post with Effective Advocacy”
These 3 Steps Will Make it Easier to Fight for Your Cause
At this point, I can’t keep track of how many of these “morning briefings” I’ve attended. Where DC-based political operatives “prepare” out-of-town advocates to go storm Capitol Hill. And they almost all follow the same script…
What Do I Do When I…only have one minute to make my case?
The real win in a moment like this – when you have a minute or less to talk about your issue – isn’t getting the listener to ‘yes.’ Success is getting them to say ‘I want to know more.’
‘I Can Do More Here.”
DC is a tough town. It’s a transactional town. Yes you can accomplish something of significance there. But does that significance align with the purpose you want to serve in life?
Do this One Thing to Be Unforgettable to Decision Makers
When I think about those truly successful advocates over the years, the way the guided me was not what most would expect. It wasn’t a forceful push on an issue, it was a gentle nudge.
Advocacy MASTERCLASS: How to Tell a Powerful Story with John Torres
“Whether they’re the villain or the hero, you want your audience to value the characters.”
What do I do when a federal agency isn’t helping me?
We are not subjects of our government. We own the responsibility of holding them accountable.
One Size Fits One; and How Schoolhouse Rock! Lied To You
A big challenge for me as I train prospective advocates is nailing down just what barriers stand in their way and keep them from taking action on the causes that are most important to them. These barriers are incredibly important for us to understand because there is no substitute for the effectiveness of a realContinue reading “One Size Fits One; and How Schoolhouse Rock! Lied To You”
Part of the Possible 