Listen, Learn, Lead: The Path to Meaningful Policy Change | Kathryn Schubert
How can we bridge the gap between scientific research and policy to create lasting change in women's health?
In this engaging conversation, Kathryn Schubert, President and CEO of the Society for Women's Health Research, shares her journey as a trusted leader and advocate for women's health. She dives into her work, driving major investments in research, pushing for the inclusion of pregnant and lactating populations in clinical trials, and shaping public policy through science, education, and advocacy.
Kathryn also discusses effective advocacy strategies—relationship building, personal storytelling, and policymaker education—while offering insights on leadership, board service, and the role of personal branding in advancing organizational goals. The conversation wraps up with a powerful discussion on staying motivated in advocacy and celebrating progress along the way.
Takeaways:
- Build Meaningful Relationships: Advocacy and policy success depend on trust and personal connections. Genuine relationships can lead to long-term alliances and new opportunities.
- Prioritize Sex Differences in Research: Advocate for the inclusion of women in clinical trials and highlight the ethical issues of exclusion. Use historical milestones to showcase progress and remaining challenges.
- Leverage Personal Connections: In both professional and advocacy settings, understanding and utilizing personal interests can influence outcomes. Small gestures, like remembering personal details, help build strong rapport.
- Maximize the Power of a Small Organization: Small teams can create a significant impact by forming strategic partnerships and bringing in external expertise. Focus on niche areas where you can lead while collaborating broadly.
- Advocate for Your Team: Support staff growth by ensuring their voices are heard, especially those who may be less vocal. Create an environment that fosters professional development and inclusivity.
- Use LinkedIn and Social Media Strategically: Strengthen your personal brand to amplify your organization’s mission. Be intentional with posts, share authentic stories, and engage consistently with your audience.
- Celebrate Small Wins: Advocacy work can be slow-moving, but recognizing progress—no matter how small—keeps motivation high. Regularly reflect on achievements to sustain long-term commitment.
Quote of the Show:
- "The key word, I think, is listening. Many of us in advocacy, especially policy advocacy, love to talk—we have plenty of ideas and opinions. Maybe some of us were in debate club and feel the urge to jump into a discussion to win it. But I think it's crucial to first sit back and truly hear what someone is saying about their concerns. Even before getting to the listening part, there's a connection that needs to be made."
Links:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathryn-godburn-schubert-07352a7/
- Website: https://swhr.org/
Shout Outs:
- Judy Schneider
- Steve Taylor
- Chuck Henderson
- Leah Howard
- National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF)
Creators and Guests
Host
Anthony Shop
Anthony Shop believes in the power of people-centered branding and marketing to create a bright future. He chairs the National Digital Roundtable, the premier convener of digital innovators, leaders and policy shapers. Anthony also is the Co-Founder and Chief Strategy Officer of Social Driver, a digital services firm that helps companies and non-profits establish winning strategies with social media, websites, creative, and advertising. An enthusiastic presenter and teacher, he has led executive-level training for Amazon, PepsiCo, NASA, The British Embassy and the Bipartisan Policy Center. He has been recognized as an “OUTstanding LGBT Role Model” by The Financial Times, “40 Under 40” by The Washington Business Journal, and Business Leader of the Year by the DC Chamber of Commerce. A former newspaper reporter, Anthony was the first new media professional elected to the National Press Club’s Board of Governors. He currently serves on the boards of Leadership Greater Washington and LearnServe International. He earned his MBA from The George Washington University School of Business, where he teaches as an adjunct lecturer.
Producer
Robert Krueger
Robert is an Executive Director for The Communications Board, an organization with the mission of providing high-quality professional development for every communicator in every location. He is also the Global Lead for Partnership Communications at Gensler, the world’s largest architecture and design firm. Prior to his current role, he performed executive and CEO communications for Gensler, and was the senior director of public relations and social media at the Urban Land Institute. He obtained an MA in Communications and an MA in History from George Mason University. He did his undergraduate studies at the University of Missouri-Columbia. In addition, Robert has taught communications at universities including George Mason University, West Virginia University, and the University of Florida. Robert currently serves as Immediate-Past President for the Public Relations Society of America’s National Capital Chapter (PRSA-NCC) -- the nonprofit’s largest chapter.