Voices in Advocacy Podcast

Have you ever wondered what would happen if lawmakers truly saw your issue up close? Not in a briefing, not in a memo—but right there in their district, on your turf? Well, that’s exactly what we’re talking about today. 🎯 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 s...

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 s...

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. Today, we’ll explore: How advocates can remain effective acros...

Today’s episode is a little different—but a lot of fun. 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.   A...

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.   As a professional speak...

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...

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...

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 yo...

Let me ask you—have you ever experienced something so impactful, so personal, that it made you say, “This has to change”? That feeling is often the spark that fuels the most transformative advocacy. 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...

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. Why is storytelling so powerful? Think about the last time...

Hello again, and welcome to the 6th Season of the Voices in Advocacy podcast—which is dedicated to the art of advocacy and how everyday people can make a real difference. 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...

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.  ABOUT the GUEST   Aaron Alejandro is Executive Director of the Texas FFA Foundation located in Austin, Texas. In his non-professional hours, Aaron consults with businesses, organizations, education, and youth clubs about w...

"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. ABOUT our...

Running a medical association comes with many challenges. Today’s guest confronts these challenges head on while leading this community with advocacy in an ever-changing world. "The voices of those affected by cleft and craniofacial conditions are really the strongest in the room, without a doubt." - Adam Levy, CAE ABOUT the GUEST Adam Levy is the Executive Director of the American Cleft Palate Cr...

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...

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.   ABOUT the GUEST Mark Fisher is the Director of Advocacy Engagement at the Muscular Dystrophy Associa...

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 Spi...

Today we speak to the leader of an organization that empowers young adults to advocate for higher education, health care, and economic policies.  ABOUT the GUEST Kristin McGuire is the Executive Director for Young Invincibles. Kristin assumes this role having most recently served as YI West Regional Director, where she empowered young adults to advocate for higher education, health care, and econo...

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...

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. ABOUT the GUEST Justin Beland serves as WWP’s Grassroots and Constituent Affairs Director where he utilizes 23 years of experience in grassroots advocacy, public poli...

Today we speak to the CEO of an organization that is the influential, unified voice of the vibrant creative arts community in New Jersey. Stay tuned as we learn about their dedication to arts advocacy. ABOUT the GUEST As President & CEO, Adam Perle manages all ArtPride operations. He leads the senior management team and is responsible for resource development, as well as fiduciary oversight. P...

Our guest today is a farmer, and not just any farmer, Chris Hoffman is the President of the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau and a member of the Board of Directors at the American Farm Bureau Federation. Join us as we explore the importance of advocating for our nation's food supply, after all its what's for dinner. ABOUT the GUEST Chris Hoffman owns and operates Lazy Hog Farm, a 1,400 sow farrow to wean,...

Today we speak with the Chair of the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Agriculture, Congressman 'GT' Thompson. As we learn more about the FARM Bill and the importance of constituent engagement.   ABOUT the GUEST Chairman Glenn 'GT' Thompson is the descendant of a long line of dairy farmers and lifelong resident of Howard Township, Centre County, Pennsylvania. Elected to the U.S. House of...

Today I will speak about self-advocacy. Self-advocacy through voting. In the United States of America what could be more important than our freedom? One of our most precious freedoms is our ability to cast a ballot, to vote.  We have the right and privilege to participate in our government, to set a course for tomorrow. I’m Roger Rickard and I approve this message.  

Today we speak to the CEO of an organization that is the influential, unified voice of the travel and tourism industry in California, which supports 1.22 million jobs and $12.2 billion in state and local taxes. Stay tuned as we learn about their advocacy efforts for the California travel industry.    ABOUT the GUEST California Travel Association (CalTravel) is the influential, unified voice of the...