Emotions > Facts: How MTV’s 16 & Pregnant and Jersey Shore became an advocacy juggernaut

Why do we remember stories, not statistics? 

Persuasion isn’t just about presenting the facts—it’s about connecting with people on an emotional level. Today in our series The Art and Science of Persuasion, Kaitlin Funaro talks with Stephen Friedman, former president of MTV and adjunct professor at Columbia University, and Jason Rzepka, Senior Director at RALLY, to discuss how storytelling and emotional engagement can drive real-world impact. From MTV campaigns that shaped cultural conversations to lessons for today’s advocacy work, they reveal why tapping into emotion often works better than relying on data.

In This Episode:

• How MTV used reality TV like 16 and Pregnant, Teen Mom, and Jersey Shore to connect with audiences through story and emotion 
• Why connecting emotionally—rather than overloading with facts—can change minds, especially among audiences that aren’t already convinced or aware
• The role of authentic, relatable storytelling in shaping public opinion and fostering social change
• Strategies for advocates to integrate emotional storytelling without sacrificing credibility or forcing a narrative
• Lessons from reality and scripted TV on how narrative can spark awareness, action, and empathy
• How partnering with professional storytellers and showing social issues through personal journeys engages, educates, and inspires audiences 

Read more: 

• Media Influences on Social Outcomes: The Impact of MTV’s 16 and Pregnant on Teen Childbearing

About RALLY:

RALLY is an advocacy communications firm that works with foundations, nonprofits, businesses, and campaigns to change the way people think and act around today’s biggest social and political challenges.

Where you can find us:

• wearerally.com
• Follow us on LinkedIn
• Follow us on Instagram

Do you have an idea for an episode or want to connect with us? Say hello at [e-mail].