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 change 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.

In this episode, we sit down with John MacPhee, CEO of The Jed Foundation (JED), a national nonprofit dedicated to preventing suicide among teens and young adults. Under his leadership, JED has grown into a $25 million organization that strengthens systems and empowers communities to combat the youth mental health crisis. Here, he discusses slaying the fundraising dragon, staying focused on mission and core competencies, celebrity ambassadorship, and the benefit of logic models built around the specific behaviors your organization seeks to change.

Connect with John MacPhee.

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.

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Check out Kevin’s Insights.

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.

Follow Roshanda.

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 change 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.

In this episode, we sit down with Akiera Gilbert, the Chief Executive Officer of Project Heal. Breaking down systemic, healthcare and financial barriers to the treatment of eating disorders, Akiera's work began with the founding of Body Reborn, then took on an even broader context when she joined Project Heal.

Connect with Akiera.

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.

Follow Kevin.

Check out Kevin’s Insights.

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.

Follow Roshanda.

Kevin Doyle is the president and CEO of Hazelden Betty Ford Graduate School. In his 35-year career, Kevin has been a licensed professional counselor, clinical supervisor, professor and nonprofit executive. But substance use disorders and mental health have been at the center of his efforts in each role. Here he discusses mentoring the next generation of helpers and what it's like to do so from behind such a famous name in the recovery movement.

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.

Follow Kevin.

Check out Kevin’s Insights.

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.

Follow Roshanda.