Rob Sand on Communication & Transparency in Government (Re-Air)
Rob Sand is the 33rd State Auditor of Iowa, known for his commitment to transparency, accessibility, and accountability in government. Elected in 2018, Sand previously served as Iowa’s Chief Public Corruption Prosecutor, where he led the investigation into the largest lottery rigging scheme in American history.
He emphasizes the importance of being accessible to constituents through initiatives like Transparency Tuesdays, a weekly Facebook Live series where he directly engages with the public. Sand’s approach challenges traditional political norms by promoting openness and demystifying government processes.
In this conversation, he also reflects on his career journey, discusses his book The Winning Ticket, and underscores the importance of clear communication and public trust in governance. At the core of his philosophy is a belief in working with anyone to do good and upholding integrity in public service.
Takeaways:
- Constituent Influence Challenges: As an elected official, Rob must influence everyday people to create meaningful impact. This is increasingly difficult due to rising partisanship and the weakening of traditional political coalitions.
- Government Transparency Education: Rob provides an open look into how state government works. He educates the public about his role as state auditor and broader government functions.
- Statewide In-Person Engagement: Rob connects with Iowans by visiting all 100 county seats. These face-to-face conversations build trust and allow him to hear concerns directly.
- Direct Social Media Use: Rob actively manages his own social media accounts. This personal touch enhances authenticity and keeps constituents informed and engaged.
- Weekly Facebook Live Updates: Every Tuesday evening, Rob hosts “Transparency Tuesdays” on Facebook Live. He highlights his recent work and answers questions from viewers.
- Authentic Public Presence: Unlike many public figures who fear live interactions, Rob embraces them. His unfiltered approach resonates with people who value honesty and accessibility.
- Breaking Down Barriers: Rob uses social media to bridge the gap between government and citizens. This invites Iowans into meaningful dialogue and helps build community.
- Sharing Innovative Practices: Rob identifies effective practices from across counties and shares them statewide. He values practical solutions over partisanship, ensuring good ideas reach everyone.
Quote of the Show:
- “It's important for people to have a sense of the ability to reach their government, to reach levers of whatever degree of power and to actually have an interaction there”
Links:
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/RobSandIA
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robsandia/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robsandia/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robsand1/
- Website: https://robsand.com/
- The Winning Ticket: https://a.co/d/c9xQN6w
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.