Voices in Advocacy Podcast
Voices in Advocacy is the podcast where passion meets purpose. Hosted by renowned speaker and advocacy expert Roger Rickard, each episode empowers individuals and organizations to become more effective, influential advocates. Whether you’re stepping into the political arena for the first time or looking to elevate your impact, this show offers practical strategies, compelling stories, and expert insights to help you turn passion into policy and voices into action. Because advocacy isn’t just about speaking up—it’s about being heard.
Episodes
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 across party lines
- How to encourage...
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.
As a professional speaker, I help or...
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 speaker, I help organizations inspire, t...
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?
Exampl...
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, ...
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.
So, if you're...
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 to act. This episode is all about h...
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 a news story stuck with you. It pro...
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 a bit… intimidating?
You’re not al...
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 ways to improve organizational and ...
"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 HOST
Roger is the Founder & Pr...
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 Craniofacial Association. An experien...
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 ser...
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 Association. In this role, Mark leads MDA’...
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 (...
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 economic policies. Kristin brings years ...
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.
ABOUT the GUES...
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 policy, and creating innovative engagem...
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. Prior to joining ArtPride, Adam was ...
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, 4,800-head nursery barn and 4,400-...
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