Absolute Power (Pt.2): Clear Messaging in the Age of the Information Maelstrom
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It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the onslaught of horrible headlines. Advocates need to fight, and words are our weapons. But the problem is, we are never taught how to cut through the noise and get to the heart of the argument.
Part 1 (with Gary Restaino) defined the problem: Trump exerting total control over the Department of Justice to weaponize the law against his enemies. Don Lemon is his target de jure, First Amendment be damned.
In this, Part 2 of “Absolute Power,” we consult with communications expert Dr. Randy Olson on creating clear and powerful messaging with narrative structure. But that’s not easy, especially when Steve Bannon’s strategy of “flooding the zone” is in full play. Therefore, Dr. Olson provides valuable guidance on how we can better communicate the truth of what’s happening.
IN THIS EPISODE:
- Cutting through the information maelstrom to find the central theme of your communication (the “Dobzhansky” template);
- Understanding the power of narrative;
- Messaging for turbulent times;
- How Steve Bannon weaponizes non-narrative to “Flood the Zone with Shit”;
- “The Gish Gallop”;
- The “DNA” of narrative: Dream, Nightmare, Action;
- Constructive critique of Abbe Lowell’s press release in the Don Lemon case;
- The key to narrative is proper framing;
- A musical finale – in honor of friends and family in Minnesota – “Hospital in Duluth” (written and performed by Doug Passon, with Ken Murray on harmonica).
LINKS:
MORE ON DR. RANDY OLSON & THE “ABT” NARRATIVE TEMPLATE
