Tips for Advocates: Remember this truth as the Presidential Campaign Warms Up

This week, in the category of “worst kept secrets, two prominent Republicans will have announced their candidacies for the 2024 Presidential primary. Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina and Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida will officially enter the fray after months of will they-won’t they speculation. And like the many others considering the same move,Continue reading “Tips for Advocates: Remember this truth as the Presidential Campaign Warms Up”

VLOG: Flipping Your Perspective on Congressional Offices and How to Avoid Partisanship

When writer’s block strikes, try talking it out! In today’s vlog, I share some perspectives from life inside a congressional district office and how you can better work with these teams to advance your cause. Check it out below, and let me know what you think! What should I cover the next time I recordContinue reading “VLOG: Flipping Your Perspective on Congressional Offices and How to Avoid Partisanship”

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”

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.’

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.

Can you plan too much as an advocate?

I had to do it again this week. I had to share with folks just why I can’t stand talking points. It’s personal. At this point it’s almost as if I’m on a vendetta against bullet pointed communication in general. And before you tell me, yes, I know and recognize that this is a strangeContinue reading “Can you plan too much as an advocate?”

Make an Impression: 3 Ways to Make Them Care About Your Data

Significance is a different game altogether. Significance is the difference between completing a pass and completing the game winning pass. Significance leaves a lasting impression. If you want to generate those lasting impressions, below are a few ways you can get there.