#2: In Conversation with Randy Ford, Storyteller and Communication Coach

Randy Ford, of Chicago, is the owner of First Story Strategies. He is a writer, storyteller, and communication coach. He creates content at the intersection of people, policy, and progress. His work is supported by his experience working on Capitol Hill for a congressional representative for 10 years.  Randy has been using the principles of story for more than 20 years as a writer, journalist, media strategist, and political aide. He started his career as a radio journalist in his home state of Tennessee and led award-winning team coverage on the impact of tax policy on individuals and families. Then, he headed to Capitol Hill in DC, where for 10 years he was a senior aide to a member of Congress. Next, he joined LRG Public Affairs, heading up content, editorial, strategic communications, and event services for nonprofit, for-profit, and government clients.  Topics covered: Why Randy loves working with membership associations.  How he approaches working with an association client.  How to do a communications or content audit.  How to build a successful relationship with a consultant or freelancer. Matching communications messaging and breaking down siloes.  The silver lining of the pandemic: the growth in connecting worldwide, without requiring in-person meetings.  Engaging in empower or affinity groups of larger organizations. Repurposing content, particularly from events and conferences.  How to repurpose conference videos in multiple ways.  The impact that member stories can have in state legislatures and Congress. Resources: FirstStoryStrategies.com Randy’s email address: randy@firststorystrategies.com Randy on Twitter Association of Consultants to Nonprofits