Chief Influencer®

We are thrilled to present a special co-promotion episode, bringing you a fantastic discussion from the CitiesSpeak podcast, produced by the National League of Cities! Join CitiesSpeak host Clarence Anthony, CEO of the National League of Cities, for an insightful conversation with Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser. Mayor Bowser shares her compelling journey into public service, her motivations for leading her hometown, and the unique aspects of governing a district that operates as a city, county, and state. Discover the strategies that have fueled D.C.'s impressive growth, its achievement of an AAA bond rating, and its recognition as one of the nation's fastest-growing districts. The dialogue dives deep into the critical issue of housing, exploring D.C.'s ambitious goals for increasing housing supply, the paramount importance of affordability, and the essential role of public-private partnerships and federal support in creating livable cities for everyone.

Takeaways:

• Recognize the Importance of Local Leadership: Understand that effective leadership often starts at the local level. Mayor Bowser's journey from an advisory neighborhood commissioner to mayor highlights the impact one can have by focusing on community improvement from the ground up.   
• Advocate for and Support Affordable Housing Initiatives: Realize that housing affordability is a critical issue for community growth and stability. Support policies and initiatives that aim to increase housing supply across the entire spectrum, from publicly provided to market-rate housing.   
• Foster Public-Private Partnerships for Community Development: Effective community development, especially in housing, often requires collaboration between the public and private sectors. Encourage and support partnerships where the government can signal reliability and help fund gaps to attract private investment for essential projects.   
• Understand the Federal Government's Role in Local Issues: Be aware of how federal policies and funding (e.g., for public housing, housing vouchers, infrastructure materials) impact local communities and advocate for federal actions that support local needs, such as ensuring affordable materials for housing construction.   
• View Homeownership as a Path to Wealth Creation: Recognize the significance of homeownership as a primary means for many individuals and families to build wealth and achieve the American dream. Support programs that assist potential homeowners with down payments and credit repair.   
• Engage in and Value Your Local Community: Take the time to know and appreciate your own city or town beyond its main attractions or stereotypes. Understanding the unique character of local neighborhoods contributes to a stronger sense of community and civic pride.   
• Champion Sound Fiscal Management in Governance: Support and expect responsible financial stewardship from your local government, including balanced budgets and strategic investments that allow cities to grow and provide essential services like public safety, schools, and parks.  

Quote of the Show:

• “I lead from my values, and my values tell me that people should have access to safe and affordable housing. And there’s a spectrum – all the way from publicly provided housing to market rate housing – and we need to make sure that there are policies in place to encourage production along the whole spectrum.”

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayorbowser/ 
• Website: https://mayor.dc.gov/ 

The Honorable Patrick J. Kennedy is a leading advocate for mental health and addiction. As a former Congressman, Patrick was instrumental in passing the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008 and has spent years fighting for policy change. After leaving Congress, he founded The Kennedy Forum and co-founded One Mind to advance brain health.

In this episode, Patrick delves into the challenges and stigmas faced by those struggling with mental health and substance use disorders and the impactful decision to share his own story in his book, A Common Struggle: A Personal Journey Through the Past and Future of Mental Illness and Addiction; and the courageous stories of others in his more recent book, Profiles in Mental Health Courage. 

Takeaways:

• Be authentic and vulnerable: Share your own story, including struggles and failures, to create genuine connections and inspire others. Authenticity can turn adverse events into strengths, as people appreciate honesty and are more likely to support you when they see you are genuine.
• Build coalitions: Diverse coalitions can drive impactful change. By bringing together different perspectives and points of view, you can create a broader consensus and develop policies or solutions that are more robust and widely accepted.
• Forge bipartisan support in times of polarization: Build bipartisan support by focusing on shared goals and values, using persistence and personal connections to bridge divides in polarized times.
• Connect with your audience through storytelling: Use stories and analogies to make complex issues more relatable and to motivate people to join your cause or mission. Tailored storytelling can rally support and drive collective action.
• Persist through adversity: Use challenges as learning experiences and opportunities to build resilience. Persistence, even in the face of setbacks, is key to achieving long-term goals and making a difference.
• Leverage personal experiences for advocacy: Use your story to highlight broader issues, fostering empathy and inspiring change.
• There is no health without mental health: Advocate for integrating mental health into healthcare, highlighting its connection to physical health and the need for community-based support to reduce costs and improve recovery.

Quote of the Show:

• "We live in a polarized world, but the shared human experience of our mental health can unite us across all divides. These issues transcend the toxic reactivity between opposing sides."

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-j-kennedy-6821ba165/ 
• Website: https://www.patrickjkennedy.net/ 
• Books: 
  • “Profiles in Mental Health Courage”: https://a.co/d/0kFiw9G 
  • “A Common Struggle: A Personal Journey Through the Past and Future of Mental Illness and Addiction”:  https://a.co/d/2ObOEdP 

Shawn Martin is the Executive Vice President and CEO of the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), a medical specialty organization representing 130,000 family physicians and medical students nationwide. In his role, Shawn provides strategic leadership to the AAFP and directs the mission-driven work of the nation's largest primary care organization. 

In this episode, Shawn shares his journey from being the son of a rural family physician to heading the AAFP, discusses the evolving role of leaders in the digital age, and explains his strategies for managing stakeholder dynamics and combating misinformation. 

Shawn also explains his innovative communication approaches, including using media ambassadors, and how he balances personal and professional branding on social media. Listen to gain insights into consistent and disciplined communication and the importance of being present and relevant as a leader in a digital world.

Takeaways:

• Cultivate and train members within your organization to become media ambassadors. This strengthens your message through authentic, expert voices, enhancing brand presence and credibility.
• Establish a predictable communication rhythm with your team, board, and external stakeholders. This will build trust and ensure that your message is clear and cohesive across all channels.
• Leaders should engage in social media to authentically represent their brand and connect with their audience on a personal level.
• Promote and amplify expert voices within your field to position your organization as a reliable source of truth. This will counter misinformation and build public trust.
• Regular media training for your spokespeople can vastly improve their effectiveness in representing your brand accurately and positively in public forums.
• Whether it's celebrating new members or industry achievements, taking time to recognize and honor these moments fosters a positive organizational culture and strengthens community ties.
• Stay true to yourself and your organizational values while remaining relevant and engaged in the current discourse. This will humanize your brand and strengthen connections with your audience.

Quote of the Show:

• “Leaders have to be relatable in the modern social media era. People want to know that you're not always scripted, and you're out there, you have opinions, and you're willing to engage in this public discourse that's taking place.” - Shawn Martin

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawn-martin-a49b506 
• American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) - Website: https://www.aafp.org 

Shout Outs:

• Modern Healthcare: https://www.modernhealthcare.com 
• The Hill: https://thehill.com 
• Family Doctor: https://familydoctor.org 
• JAMA Network: https://jamanetwork.com 
• Adam Grant: https://adamgrant.net 
• Kobe Bryant
• JP Morgan: https://www.jpmorgan.com 

This special compilation episode delves into the critical and ever-evolving world of cybersecurity. It features insights from cyber leaders, Craig Newmark, Founder of Craigslist, Camille Stewart Gloster, CEO and Principal at CAS Strategies LLC, Ambassador Jacques Pitteloud, and Renee DiResta, Author of “Invisible Rulers”. They all discuss navigating the complex intersection of technology, information, and security. Core topics include the significant impact of AI on society and relationships, the pervasive challenges of misinformation and disinformation, and the crucial role of education, from K-12 to workforce development, in combating these digital threats.    

The discussion extends to the imperative for a collective mobilization to enhance cybersecurity and examines the ethical responsibilities inherent in developing and deploying powerful new technologies. Strategies for fostering empowerment amidst rapid technological change are explored, alongside a nuanced understanding of misinformation that goes beyond simplistic definitions. The episode underscores the importance of critical thinking and highlights the shared accountability of individuals, technology companies, and governments in constructing a more secure digital future.

Takeaways:

• Get Educated and Engage with AI: Don't be intimidated by AI and new technologies. Take the time to learn about them, experiment with tools like chatbots (e.g., ChatGPT, Gemini), and understand how they can assist you. However, always remember AI is a tool, not a complete solution, and requires your critical input and oversight.    
• Be Vocal About Your Technology Needs: As a user, you have agency. Voice your needs and expectations to technology providers regarding the features, privacy, and ethical considerations of the products and services they offer.    
• Prioritize Critical Thinking and Source Verification: In an age of rampant misinformation, cultivate critical thinking skills. Don't take information at face value, especially online. Question sources, seek context, and wait for verified facts before forming conclusions or sharing. This is particularly important for younger generations.    
• Advocate for and Support Comprehensive Cybersecurity Education: Recognize that cybersecurity literacy is crucial from a young age (K-12) through workforce development and for the general public. Support initiatives that promote this education, like coding and cybersecurity programs in schools or merit badges.    
• Understand the Nuances of Misinformation: Recognize that "misinformation" is often more complex than simply false facts. It can involve unverified information, rumors, and narratives that spread rapidly and shape public opinion before the truth is known. Be aware of how these dynamics work.    
• Influencers and Content Creators Must Embrace Ethical Responsibility: If you have a platform or influence, recognize the power you wield. Be mindful of the authenticity and potential impact of your words, and strive to use your influence ethically and responsibly.    
• Individuals Have a Role in National Cybersecurity: Understand that individual actions contribute to broader cybersecurity. Take steps to protect yourself, your family, and your workplace online, as this collectively helps protect national infrastructure and security. 

Links:

• Camille Stewart Gloster
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/camillestewartesq/ 
  • Website: https://www.cas-strategies.com/ 
• Craig Newmark
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craignewmark/ 
  • Website: https://craignewmarkphilanthropies.org/ 
• Ambassador Jaques Pitteloud 
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacques-pitteloud-83621a10/ 
  • Website: https://www.eda.admin.ch/washington 
• Reness DiResta: 
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reneediresta/ 

Website: https://www.reneediresta.com/ 

Is all influence truly local?

Clarence Anthony, CEO of the National League of Cities and host of the City Speak podcast, discusses the importance of inclusive leadership, the lessons from his early mayoral career, and his strategies in navigating complex political landscapes. From inclusive leadership to the power of showing up, Clarence shares how meeting communities where they are—both literally and figuratively—has shaped his approach to leadership. We reflect on how trust is built block by block and why elevating local voices can lead to nationwide impact. Plus, a personal story about Clarence’s mom reminds us why leadership isn’t a solo act—it’s a community effort.

Takeaways:

• Step Up and Be Part of the Solution: Rather than focusing on complaints, individuals are encouraged to take initiative and contribute to solutions within their communities. This means being proactive, finding ways to give back, and remaining resilient through challenges.
• Engage Stakeholders Early: Effective leadership begins with early stakeholder engagement. Involving key voices from the start helps reduce opposition, save time, and build broader collaboration and support for initiatives.
• All Politics Is Local: As the saying goes, “all politics is local.” Local government remains the most trusted level of governance, and leaders who focus on the direct needs of their communities can leverage that trust to drive meaningful change.
• Humanize Local Leaders: Sharing the personal motivations, challenges, and stories of local leaders helps foster stronger connections with the public. This approach breaks down negative stereotypes and builds empathy and understanding within the community.
• Highlight Positive Stories: Uplifting positive stories and successful community projects fosters a sense of optimism and shared progress. Celebrating these wins can inspire others and promote the replication of effective practices across communities.
• Leverage Technology for Transparency—But Stay Vigilant: Technology can be a powerful tool to increase transparency and engagement. However, it must be used responsibly. Leaders should embrace digital tools while remaining alert to potential misuse or the spread of misinformation.
• Equip Leaders with the Right Tools: Access to tools, resources, and support is essential for effective governance. Providing training, technical assistance, federal advocacy, and best practices enables local governments to serve their communities more effectively.

Quote of the Show:

• "You have to focus on your own community first. I think most residents—no matter what’s happening in Washington, D.C.—tend to be most concerned about their local community. It's like looking at a map of your town: the first place your eyes go is your own street, your own home. That’s how our residents are, and surveys back that up. They show the most trusted level of government is the local level—the town and village level—because people see those leaders every day. There's trust in that closeness."

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clarence-anthony-12010419/ 
• Website: https://www.nlc.org/ 
• Podcast: https://www.nlc.org/news-insights/citiesspeak-podcast/ 

Francisco Jamison, a leading expert on childcare and military families, is a passionate advocate dedicated to ensuring that those who serve our country have access to the support they need at home. With deep expertise in the complex infrastructure behind military childcare, Francisco sheds light on an issue that often goes unnoticed but is essential to the well-being of military families and the strength of our armed forces.

This conversation is especially timely as April marks the Month of the Military Child, a time to recognize and honor military-connected children's resilience, strength, and sacrifices. Francisco’s insights offer a powerful reminder of the systems that support these young people — and why investing in them is critical to building a stronger future.

One of the key themes Francisco explores is the power of influence in less visible spaces. He demonstrates how true leadership is rooted in respect and empathy by focusing on listening, adapting to people's needs, and honoring every individual — from top leadership to entry-level personnel. Through personal stories and lessons from military service, Francisco offers a compelling look at how influence can create meaningful, lasting change.

Takeaways:

• Invest in Military Childcare: Focus on enhancing the infrastructure behind military childcare. By ensuring that military families have access to quality childcare, the well-being of both children and parents can be supported, ultimately strengthening the armed forces.
• Recognize the Resilience of Military Children: Take time during the Month of the Military Child (April) to acknowledge the unique challenges and strengths of military-connected children. Creating recognition programs for their sacrifices can help build a supportive community for them.
• Lead with Respect and Empathy: Emphasize leadership rooted in empathy and respect, focusing on listening to the needs of all individuals, from top leaders to entry-level personnel. This can foster a more inclusive and supportive environment.
• Champion Invisible Contributions: Acknowledge and support less visible, yet essential, roles within the military system. Highlighting these contributions can build stronger, more effective networks within military families and the broader community.
• Create Meaningful Change through Influence: Leverage influence to make a lasting impact. Francisco’s approach emphasizes the importance of leading by example and using influence to create systems that benefit everyone, especially military families.

Quote of the Show:

• “Childcare for the military, it’s a mission readiness factor. It’s a force multiplier, and so it affects national security.” 

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francisco-jamison-52102b25b/ 
• Website: https://www.childcareaware.org/ 

How can one leader spark meaningful change in science, policy, and people's lives—all at once?

In this powerful interview, Dr. Tim Coetzee, President and CEO of the National Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Society, shares insights from his remarkable journey in MS research and advocacy. With decades of experience, Dr. Coetzee reflects on the evolution of MS diagnosis and treatment, highlighting how cutting-edge science and improved therapies have dramatically transformed patient outcomes.

Beyond the lab and policy rooms, Dr. Coetzee emphasizes the critical role of communication—how clear, consistent messaging and compelling storytelling are essential tools in leadership and advocacy. Whether speaking to policymakers, scientists, or the general public, he explains how tailoring the message builds trust and drives change.

He also opens up about his leadership philosophy, stressing the importance of transparency, creating a safe space for feedback, and empowering teams to lead with purpose. A strong advocate for using professional platforms like LinkedIn, Dr. Coetzee offers practical advice on how leaders can use digital communication to amplify their mission.

At its core, the interview is a reflection of Dr. Coetzee’s belief in using influence for good—and his call for others to do the same.

Takeaways:

• Curiosity and a willingness to learn fuel career growth: Openness to new experiences and risks leads to meaningful opportunities.
• Clear communication and storytelling strengthen leadership: Strong narratives align teams and inspire diverse audiences.
• Consistent messaging builds trust and clarity: A unified message across audiences maximizes impact and understanding.
• Psychological safety encourages openness and trust: Safe environments foster honest dialogue and collaboration.
• Strategic use of LinkedIn amplifies influence: Purposeful, mission-driven content extends reach and engagement.
• Personal and professional experience build authenticity: Combining expertise with personal stories deepens credibility.
• Transparency and vulnerability strengthen influence: Honest leadership creates trust and authentic relationships.

Quote of the Show:

• "As a leader, it's crucial to be open, listen, and create space for others. We’re doing hard work, and if you come in thinking you have all the answers, it simply won’t work—especially in today’s world. While listening and creating opportunities is key, clarity is also essential at the right moments."

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timcoetzee/ 
• Website: https://www.nationalmssociety.org/ 

Shout Outs:

• Joyce Nelson
•  Nancy Duarte

What does it truly mean to be an influencer—not just in title, but in action, in humility, and in the way we uplift others?

Edna Kane Williams, Executive Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer, AARP, explores the power of influence beyond the boardroom. From her deeply personal journey as a caregiver for her mother to her leadership in championing marginalized communities, Edna shares invaluable insights on mentorship, advocacy, and the lessons learned along the way. She reminds us that influence is a two-way street—not just about speaking but about listening, elevating others, and embracing the wisdom that comes with time. Whether you’re an introvert navigating leadership or someone seeking inspiration for your own path, this conversation is filled with thought-provoking takeaways you won’t want to miss.

Takeaways:

• Delegate Opportunities to Others – Pass on speaking engagements or panel opportunities to younger or less experienced colleagues to support their professional growth.
• Make Your Presence Known – Contribute substantively in meetings to ensure your voice is heard and adds value to discussions.
• Establish Boundaries for Your Role – Be mindful of tasks you take on, ensuring they align with your professional standing and meaningful contributions.
• Amplify Other Voices – Use your influence to create space for colleagues to share their ideas and ensure diverse perspectives are heard.
• Be Intentional About Your Presence – Recognize how your presence affects group dynamics and fosters an inclusive and open environment.
• Resilience in the Face of Challenges – Approach setbacks with resilience and a positive mindset to continue progressing.
• Incorporate Inclusivity – Make a conscious effort to include others and build relationships, even if it doesn’t come naturally.

Quote of the Show:

• " I have been focused on being a mentor, but also sometimes a mentee. Really understanding the role of age in the workplace is not always top down. Being open to treating and embracing age and young people, old people." 

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edna-kane-williams-4b943b12/ 
• Website: https://www.aarp.org/ 

How can we bridge the gap between scientific research and policy to create lasting change in women's health?

In this engaging conversation, Kathryn Schubert, President and CEO of the Society for Women's Health Research, shares her journey as a trusted leader and advocate for women's health. She dives into her work, driving major investments in research, pushing for the inclusion of pregnant and lactating populations in clinical trials, and shaping public policy through science, education, and advocacy.

Kathryn also discusses effective advocacy strategies—relationship building, personal storytelling, and policymaker education—while offering insights on leadership, board service, and the role of personal branding in advancing organizational goals. The conversation wraps up with a powerful discussion on staying motivated in advocacy and celebrating progress along the way.

Takeaways:

• Build Meaningful Relationships: Advocacy and policy success depend on trust and personal connections. Genuine relationships can lead to long-term alliances and new opportunities.
• Prioritize Sex Differences in Research: Advocate for the inclusion of women in clinical trials and highlight the ethical issues of exclusion. Use historical milestones to showcase progress and remaining challenges.
• Leverage Personal Connections: In both professional and advocacy settings, understanding and utilizing personal interests can influence outcomes. Small gestures, like remembering personal details, help build strong rapport.
• Maximize the Power of a Small Organization: Small teams can create a significant impact by forming strategic partnerships and bringing in external expertise. Focus on niche areas where you can lead while collaborating broadly.
• Advocate for Your Team: Support staff growth by ensuring their voices are heard, especially those who may be less vocal. Create an environment that fosters professional development and inclusivity.
• Use LinkedIn and Social Media Strategically: Strengthen your personal brand to amplify your organization’s mission. Be intentional with posts, share authentic stories, and engage consistently with your audience.
• Celebrate Small Wins: Advocacy work can be slow-moving, but recognizing progress—no matter how small—keeps motivation high. Regularly reflect on achievements to sustain long-term commitment.

Quote of the Show:

• "The key word, I think, is listening. Many of us in advocacy, especially policy advocacy, love to talk—we have plenty of ideas and opinions. Maybe some of us were in debate club and feel the urge to jump into a discussion to win it. But I think it's crucial to first sit back and truly hear what someone is saying about their concerns. Even before getting to the listening part, there's a connection that needs to be made."

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathryn-godburn-schubert-07352a7/ 
• Website: https://swhr.org/ 

Shout Outs:

• Judy Schneider
• Steve Taylor 
• Chuck Henderson
• Leah Howard 
  • National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF)

How do we find consensus in a divided world? In today’s episode, we dive into an inspiring conversation with Judge Tunheim, Senior Judge of the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota, who has proven time and again that even in the most polarized situations, common ground can be found. He shares remarkable insights from his tenure, where he successfully led a diverse bench of judges—appointed by different political parties and with varying backgrounds—toward consensus, even when many thought it was impossible.

Beyond the courtroom, Judge Tunheim’s experiences in helping to declassify critical records about a national tragedy, contributing to the formation of a new government, and writing a country’s constitution in six languages highlight his exceptional ability to unite people and navigate complex, high-stakes challenges. This episode is a testament to the power of collaboration, resilience, and the belief that leaders can always find a way forward, no matter how difficult the situation. 

Takeaways:

• Teach Young People About the Judiciary: Engage with students to educate them about the judicial system, its importance, and how it works. Use hands-on experiences like the Justice and Democracy Centers to make learning interactive and inspiring.
• Emphasize Civics Education: Advocate for strong civics education programs in schools that teach the foundational elements of government and the importance of civic participation.
• Reach a Consensus: Strive to achieve consensus in decision-making by engaging in detailed discussions, understanding differing perspectives, and seeking common ground that benefits the collective goal.
• Thank People: Regularly thank colleagues and team members, acknowledging their contributions with personal gestures such as handwritten notes to show genuine appreciation.
• Adopt New Technologies: Embrace new technologies, like Zoom, for meetings and court proceedings to enhance efficiency and flexibility, especially in geographically dispersed environments.
• Model the Way: Lead by example, demonstrating the behaviors and practices you wish to see in others. Being a role model can inspire peers and subordinates to follow suit.
• Address Difficult Issues with Soft Skills: Use empathy, communication, and negotiation skills to address and resolve difficult issues. Visit colleagues in their workspace to discuss and solve problems, fostering a respectful and cooperative environment.

Quote of the Show:

• “ Finding common ground is really important. It takes hard work. And it sometimes takes a little sacrifice as well. But I think common ground can be found everywhere.” 

Links:

• Website: https://www.mnd.uscourts.gov/ 

Shout Outs:

• Sonia Sotomayor: https://supremecourthistory.org/supreme-court-justices/associate-justice-sonia-sotomayor/