Chief Influencer - podcast cover

Chief Influencer

Social Driverchiefinfluencer.org
Washington is the Center of Influence - in the U.S. and arguably the world. Chief Influencer spotlights leaders who have figured out how to break through in today’s fragmented and noisy world. Social Driver teamed up with The George Washington University College of Professional Studies and The Communications Board to recognize these leaders as Chief Influencers and highlight how they inspire and influence others.
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Episodes

Silvia Taylor on Championing Science and Staying the Course - Chief Influencer - Episode # 086

In this episode of Chief Influencer host Anthony Shop sits down with Silvia Taylor, Executive Vice President, Chief Corporate Affairs and Advocacy Officer at Novavax, a leading biotechnology company. Silvia shares her wealth of experience in marketing, communications, and branding within the healthcare industry. She takes us through her work in creating innovative marketing strategies, securing financing, and advancing groundbreaking products like inhaled insulin and flu vaccines. Silvia also di...

Jan 15, 202543 minEp. 86

Jennifer Bell-Ellwanger on Harnessing Data for Success - Chief Influencer - Episode # 085

In this week’s episode of Chief Influencer, we’re featuring Jennifer Bell Elwanger, President and CEO of the Data Quality Campaign. She discusses her career journey from a kindergarten teacher in the Bronx to leading a nonprofit organization dedicated to making data accessible and useful for educational and career decisions. Jennifer emphasizes the importance of data in making informed choices and highlights her organization's efforts to provide timely and actionable data from early learning thr...

Jan 08, 202543 minEp. 85

Monica Goldson on Communicating Effectively with Every Stakeholder - Chief Influencer - (Re-Air)

This week, we are revisiting a remarkable Chief Influencer—Dr. Monica Goldson, a dedicated educator and visionary leader whose unwavering commitment to improving her community has earned her widespread recognition. Dr. Goldson is the former CEO of Prince George’s County Public Schools in Maryland, one of the largest school districts in the nation. We are thrilled to congratulate her on her new role as President & CEO of Junior Achievement of Greater Washington, a dynamic nonprofit organizati...

Jan 02, 202551 minEp. 84

Leadership Lessons from 2024's Top Chief Influencers - Chief Influencer - Episode # 083

In this special episode of Chief Influencer , we reflect on the influential leaders who appeared on the show in 2024. We are featuring insights from Jennifer Sirangelo, Candice Jones, Congressman Andy Kim, Allan Golston, Ambassador Jacques Pitteloud, Eric Pan, Virginia Ali, Terry Szuplat, Charles D. Henderson, and Dr. Arthur C. Evans Jr. We are revisiting the stories of leaders from both corporate and nonprofit sectors, showcasing their efforts in driving organizational success and creating a la...

Dec 23, 202439 minEp. 83

Fabrice Houdart on Overcoming Self-Doubt to Influence the Boardroom

This week's episode features Fabrice Houdart, the Executive Director of the Association of LGBTQ+ Corporate Directors. He explores his career dedicated to economic empowerment and advocacy for LGBTQ+ equality. Fabrice reflects on his transition from roles at organizations like the World Bank and the United Nations to founding initiatives aimed at increasing LGBTQ+ representation on corporate boards. He discusses the challenges and successes of organizing underrepresented groups and offers insigh...

Dec 18, 202448 minEp. 82

How Persistence Fuels Success: Bob Cusack on Surviving and Thriving in Media

This week's episode features Bob Cusack, Editor-in-Chief of The Hill. The discussion explores Bob's extensive career in Washington politics and the changing landscape of journalism. Bob reflects on the media industry's transformation due to the internet and social media, highlighting the need to balance speed with accuracy in news reporting. Personal anecdotes shed light on Bob’s early career persistence and his unique background in acting, which has shaped his journalism skills. The conversatio...

Dec 11, 202448 minEp. 81

The Power of Listening: Dr. Arthur C. Evans Jr. on Influencing Organizations, Transforming Systems, and Shaping Public Policy

In this interview, Dr. Arthur C. Evans Jr., CEO of the American Psychological Association (APA), reflects on his career and contributions to the nation’s approach to mental health. He discusses his public policy background and tenure as Commissioner of Philadelphia's Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual Disability Services. Dr. Evans stresses the importance of redefining mental health as a universal issue that affects everyone, not just those with diagnosed conditions. He shares stra...

Dec 04, 20241 hr 1 minEp. 80

Patrick Sallee on Owning Your Story - Chief Influencer - (Re-Air)

This week we are resharing our interview with Patrick Sallee, the President and CEO of Vibrant Health KC and the author of The Solitary CEO . In his book, Patrick generously shares stories that require immense of vulnerability and humility, as well as the lessons he's learned and applied in his personal and professional life along with his road to sobriety. Patrick and Host Anthony Shop discuss how to break out of the siloes leaders build around themselves, address the specific needs of multiple...

Nov 27, 202445 minEp. 79

Arun Gupta on the Future of Public Service: An Entrepreneurial Approach to Solving Big Problems

This week’s episode of Chief Influencer features Arun Gupta, CEO of NobleReach. He shares his journey from venture capitalism to nonprofit leadership, focused on integrating entrepreneurial principles with public service. Arun discusses his work with top universities like Georgetown and Stanford and his organization’s efforts to place innovation-driven talent into federal government roles. Inspired by his book Venture Meets Mission , promoting a model where individuals can make a positive impact...

Nov 20, 202450 minEp. 78

It Takes All of Us: Chuck Henderson on the Power of Teamwork and Collective Strength to Fight Diabetes

In this interview, Chuck Henderson, CEO of the American Diabetes Association (ADA), shares insights into his leadership journey, emphasizing teamwork and a mission-driven approach. Since joining the ADA in January 2020, Chuck has drawn on his private sector experience and athletic background to champion health equity, advocate for insulin affordability, and expand access to diabetes technologies. He discusses the importance of understanding all aspects of an organization while staying authentic ...

Nov 13, 202455 minEp. 77

Lesley Lopez on The Power of Authenticity in Public Service

In this special episode of Chief Influencer, we feature a new leader at our partner The George Washington University. Lesley Lopez is the Director of the Graduate Program for Public Relations and Communications at the Graduate School of Political Management. An elected Maryland State Delegate, Lesley is a Chief Influencer in her own right. She recently transitioned from her role as an adjunct professor to lead the Graduate Program for Public Relations and Communications, where she is developing ...

Nov 06, 202445 minEp. 76

Michael Manganiello on Advocacy’s Secret Weapon: How Small Wins Keep the Fight Going

This week's episode of Chief Influencer features a truly inspiring leader, Michael Manganiello, the President and CEO at Pyxis Partners. After living for 40+ years as an HIV survivor and dedicated advocate, Michael’s journey has transformed medical research and patient care. After participating in groundbreaking clinical trials led by Dr. Anthony Fauci, he has been a beacon of hope for those living with HIV/AIDS. As the first Senior VP of Government Relations for the Christopher & Dana Reeve...

Oct 30, 202444 minEp. 75

Elected Officials on Two-Way Influence - Chief Influencer - Episode # 074

Today’s special episode of Chief Influencer highlights four inspiring elected officials: Danica Roem, a member of the Virginia State Senate; Andy Kim, U.S. Representative for New Jersey’s 3rd District; Rob Sand, Iowa Auditor of State; and Tony Woods, Secretary of Veterans Affairs at the Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs. The episode features leaders from various sectors and highlights the importance of collaborative change and diverse legislative influences. It underscores the value of tra...

Oct 23, 20241 hr 2 minEp. 74

Bill Smith on Uniting Leadership, Passion & Policy - Chief Influencer - (Re-Air)

Bill Smith is the Founder and CEO of Inseparable, an organization dedicated to advancing mental health policy. Additionally, he holds the position of Chair at Civitas Public Affairs Group, a firm he co-founded. At Civitas, he guides philanthropists, foundations, and donor collaboratives on various policy objectives alongside national non-profit organizations striving for progressive policy advancements. Bill shares insights into his impactful journey of shaping mental health policy and empowerin...

Oct 16, 202447 minEp. 73

Terry Szuplat on How to Say It Well and Find Your Voice - Chief Influencer - Episode # 072

This week's episode features an in-person discussion with Terry Szuplat, a former White House speechwriter for President Barack Obama and author of Say It Well: Find Your Voice, Speak Your Mind. Inspire Any Audience. Terry emphasizes the importance of authenticity, simplicity, and personal storytelling in effective communication. He shares insights on public speaking, leveraging personal narratives, and avoiding jargon, offering actionable advice for students and professionals in the field. The ...

Oct 09, 202440 minEp. 72

Renee DiResta on Invisible Rulers and Responsible Influence - Chief Influencer - Episode # 071

In this episode of Chief Influencer, host Anthony Shop, speaks with Renee DiResta, a leading expert on misinformation, social media, and online influence, as well as the author of Invisible Rulers: The People Who Turn Lies Into Reality. Renee shares insights on false information trends on social media and the challenges of combating them. The discussion also explores the changing media landscape, the role of influencers, and the significance of ethical communication. Renee emphasizes the need fo...

Oct 02, 202454 minEp. 71

Virginia Ali on Kindness and The Legacy of Ben’s Chili Bowl - Chief Influencer - Episode # 070

This episode is a tribute to Mrs. Virginia Ali, co-founder and matriarch of the iconic Ben's Chili Bowl, a true family-owned business. She recounts her early days in the Shaw community in Washington DC, her relationship with civil rights leaders, including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and how Ben's became a crucial gathering spot during pivotal historical moments. Through her warmth and hospitality, Virginia helped the restaurant thrive for 66 years, making it an essential part of the city's cult...

Sep 25, 202445 minEp. 70

Camille Stewart Gloster on Empowering Change Through Tech and AI - Chief Influencer - Episode # 068

Camille Stewart Gloster, the former White House cyber and AI czar, shares her experiences and insights. Her background includes working in the White House, the Department of Homeland Security, and Google. Camille discusses her journey from a legal fellowship to becoming an expert in cybersecurity and AI, emphasizing the importance of diverse perspectives. She highlights the necessity of creating policies based on values rather than specific technologies and underscores the importance of collabor...

Sep 18, 202435 minEp. 69

Daniel Buezo on The Power of Community - Chief Influencer - (Re-Air)

Since our interview with Daniel Buezo last year, Kids of Immigrants has announced exciting new collaborations with Nike and Hasan Minhaj. To coincide with New York Fashion Week, we wanted to reconnect with one of today's most influential fashion entrepreneurs, Daniel Buezo, the visionary Founder and CEO of Kids of Immigrants, a trailblazing streetwear brand born in Los Angeles. Alongside his Co-Founder Weleh Dennis, Daniel has taken the fashion world by storm, teaming up with powerhouse brands a...

Sep 11, 202455 minEp. 68

Eric Pan on Respect, Enthusiasm and 100 Years of Mutual Funds - Chief Influencer - Episode # 067

This episode of Chief Influencer features Eric Pan, the President and CEO of the Investment Company Institute (ICI). The conversation explores Eric's background, including his roles with the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, his tenure as a law professor, and his transition to leading ICI. Eric emphasizes how effective communication is crucial in addressing diverse audiences and achieving industry goals. Just because you aren’t an expert i...

Sep 04, 202442 minEp. 67

Four Influential Voices on Fostering Community and Change - Chief Influencer - Episode # 066

In this special episode of Chief Influencer, hosted by Anthony Shop, we brought together four leaders from diverse sectors to share insights on inspiring, influencing, and connecting with communities. Today’s guests include Daniel Buezo, Founder and CEO of Kids of Immigrants, Jennifer Sirangelo, President and CEO of Points of Light, Jean-Claude Brizard, President and CEO of Digital Promise, and Gina Schaefer, Co-Owner of a Few Cool Hardware Stores and Author of Recovery Hardware . They discuss t...

Aug 28, 202430 minEp. 66

Peggy Rajski on The Power of Storytelling, Advocacy, and Allyship - Chief Influencer - (ReAir)

Peggy Rajski is an Oscar-winning filmmaker and a founder of The Trevor Project, the first 24/7 suicide prevention organization dedicated to serving LGBTQ+ young people. She recently concluded her 18-month term as Interim CEO of The Trevor Project. During that time, she focused on expanding crisis intervention services, strengthening partnerships with SAMHSA and Vibrant Emotional Health for the national 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, elevating Trevor’s prevention program strategy, and defeating...

Aug 21, 202452 minEp. 65

Four Leading Voices on Leveraging LinkedIn for Success - Chief Influencer - Episode # 064

In this special episode of Chief Influencer, host Anthony Shop brings together highlights and lessons on LinkedIn from prominent leaders—Steven Taylor, President and CEO of the Arthritis Foundation, Johnny C. Taylor Jr., President and CEO of SHRM, Allan Golston, President of the United States Program at the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and Emma Wade-Smith, His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for North America and Consul General. The episode delves into how these leaders use LinkedIn to drive l...

Aug 14, 202429 minEp. 64

Brooks Bell on Leading from Behind to Prevent Cancer - Chief Influencer - Episode # 063

In today’s episode host Anthony Shop introduces Brooks Bell, a technology entrepreneur who shifted her career focus after being diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer at age 38. Brooks founded Lead From Behind, a campaign powered by the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, aimed at destigmatizing colonoscopies through celebrity awareness, significantly increasing public participation in the screening. She also discusses her new venture, Worldclass Clothing, designed to make colonoscopies more approachable a...

Aug 07, 202443 minEp. 63

Ambassador Pitteloud On Diplomacy, Influence, and Trust - Chief Influencer - Episode # 062

Host Anthony Shop interviews the Honorable Jacques Pitteloud, Switzerland's Ambassador to the United States. Since his appointment in 2019, Ambassador Pitteloud has leveraged his extensive Foreign Service career since 1987, serving in diverse locations such as Saudi Arabia, Kenya, and Uganda. Pitteloud passionately discusses his mission to redefine perceptions of Switzerland. He underscores the robust economic and technological bonds between Switzerland and the U.S., underscoring the need to tai...

Jul 31, 202447 minEp. 62

Dr. E. Anders Kolb on Mission-Driven Leadership - Chief Influencer - Episode # 061

Today, we are honored to host Dr. E. Anders Kolb, President and CEO of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS). With a distinguished background as a pediatric hematologist oncologist, Dr. Kolb's journey is intertwined with a deeply personal commitment—fueled by his wife's battle with follicular lymphoma—to eradicating these diseases. Today, he leads LLS with a vision that combines compassionate patient care with pioneering research. In this episode, Dr. Kolb shares his insights on fostering co...

Jul 24, 202452 minEp. 61

Bryan Corbett on Data-Driven Storytelling in Leadership - Chief Influencer - Episode # 60

In this episode, host Anthony Shop introduces Bryan Corbett, President and CEO of MFA, the voice of the global alternative investment industry. The conversation explores Bryan's extensive background in both public and private sectors, including his tenure at the Carlyle Group and his role in the George W. Bush administration. Key topics include the significance of alternative investments, MFA's approach to member engagement, effective communication strategies, and leveraging social media. Bryan ...

Jul 17, 202446 minEp. 60

Maya Ajmera On Influencing Tomorrow - Chief Influencer - Episode # 059

In this episode, Maya Ajmera, President and CEO of Society for Science and Executive Publisher of Science News, shares her inspiring journey. From founding the Global Fund for Children at just 23 years old to revitalizing Society for Science, Maya has pioneered impactful initiatives. This show highlights her role in establishing a vast grassroots network for vulnerable children, her strategic transformation of the Science News Media Group and her work ensuring a strong future for the Society’s w...

Jul 10, 202444 minEp. 59

Congressman Andy Kim On Integrity and Humility in Public Service - Chief Influencer - (ReAir)

Congressman and Chief Influencer Andy Kim was recently victorious in the NJ primary election for the United States Senate representing the Third Congressional District of New Jersey. Congratulations, Congressman Kim! In celebration of his achievement, we are pleased to revisit his insightful interview with our host, Anthony Shop, from earlier in the campaign season. As we approach Independence Day, it's inspiring to see leaders like Congressman Kim embodying the spirit of service and dedication ...

Jul 03, 202440 minEp. 58

Dr. Gregory Fowler On How To Meet Today's Students Where They Are - Chief Influencer - Episode # 057

Authentic leadership originates from one's core character and values, which guide their actions and decisions. Embracing this approach enhances leadership effectiveness. It demands deep self-understanding and acceptance, as this authenticity steers our choices and inspires others. In our latest episode, Dr. Gregory Fowler, President of the University of Maryland Global Campus, joins host Anthony Shop to discuss how authenticity impacts leaders and allows us to create connections with our audienc...

Jun 26, 202449 minEp. 57
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