Episode 4: Candace Lightner
In this episode, we sit down with Candace Lightner. Candace founded Mothers Against Drunk Driving in 1980 after her 13-year-old daughter was killed by a repeat DUI offender. Often called "the mother of movements," Candace rallied public support and succeeded in changing the federal drinking age to 21 on her way to revolutionizing what grassroots activism can achieve. Here, she talks with Roshanda and Kevin about all she's learned in more than forty years as a change maker, most recently at the helm of her current organization, We Save Lives.
The Science of Good is an interview series aimed at helping cause leaders from non-profits, government agencies, and foundations. We talk with those who disrupt the status quo and achieve measurable change against our toughest societal problems. Sometimes it's a swap meet for comms strategies and behavioral science principles. Other times, staying inspired is all that matters. And, every once in a while, a venting session breaks out among those who can truly understand. Regardless, building community and learning from one another is always the goal.
Who is Kevin Smith
Kevin is the firm’s leading expert in harnessing behavioral science for social impact. He has directed research-driven communications programs that benefit the public good for hundreds of nonprofits, foundations, and government agencies throughout an agency career that included stops on Madison Avenue. Today, Kevin helps clients apply behavioral economics as a strategic clarifier in developing communications that help people adopt life-changing behaviors. To that end, he has recently directed the largest statewide contraceptive access initiative in the US, resulting in a 44% reduction in the number of unwanted pregnancies.
Who is Roshanda E. Pratt
Roshanda specializes in unearthing the factors behind human behaviors and articulating stories that move people to action. It’s expertise borne of her background as a journalist and researcher and honed through many years as a communications and public relations specialist. An established online influencer and accomplished instructor in building brand visibility, Roshanda works with other specialists in the firm to develop and implement consumer awareness and education content across all platforms, from video production and social media to traditional earned media and community relations.
