Chief Influencer

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 strategies for influencing policymakers and the public, advocates for community-based solutions, and highlights innovative approaches like using murals to reduce stigma. 

Dr. Evans also explores the role of technology in improving psychological practices and promoting psychologically healthy workplaces for all. The conversation highlights APA's increasing/growing shift to outward-facing initiatives, leveraging psychological science to address societal challenges. Dr. Evans concludes by offering insights on organizational growth, adapting messaging while staying true to core values, and the role of inspiration in leadership.

Takeaways:
  • Use Knowledge to Address Societal Issues: Leverage your organization's expertise and data to tackle pressing societal issues. Ensure that your actions align with your field's core mission and values, as this alignment can increase stakeholder engagement.
  • Build Necessary Infrastructure: Success stems from having the right infrastructure in place. Organizations should be designed to achieve desired outcomes, which often means setting up mechanisms for rapid research dissemination and effective communication to stakeholders.
  • Measure Impact with Clear Metrics: Track the effectiveness of your initiatives by looking at practical measures such as media mentions, partnerships formed, and the degree to which others use your information. This helps in validating the success and outreach of your initiatives.
  • Communicate Based on Facts, Not Emotions: Especially in politically charged environments, it’s crucial to present information objectively and grounded in solid data. This approach lends credibility to your work and helps maintain a long-term, bipartisan influence.
  • Promote a Healthy Work Environment: Implement policies that focus on employee well-being, such as regular mental health days, and utilize employee feedback, such as surveys. Encouraging employees to genuinely take time off and address their stressors can vastly improve workplace health and productivity.
  • Engage and Listen to the Community: Actively participate in community events and listen to both their needs and their ideas for solutions. This approach ensures that your policies and initiatives are rooted in the real, lived experiences of the communities you aim to serve.
  • Inspire Your Team: Keep your team motivated by regularly connecting their daily tasks to the larger organizational mission. Signing off communications with encouraging messages, such as 'stay inspired,' helps maintain a motivated and engaged workforce.

Quote of the Show:
  • “Inherent in every community is the wisdom to solve its own problems. When you listen to communities, hear what their issues are, and their understanding of the solutions, you get some very innovative solutions.” 

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Creators & 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
Amanda Goyette
Amanda loves bringing people's visions to life through podcasting!
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.

What is Chief Influencer?

Chief Influencer is a podcast that explores how today’s successful leaders inspire and influence others to make an impact in the world. They aren’t just Chief Executives, they’re “Chief Influencers.” We interview a range of leaders and uncover how they build authentic connections - both inside their organizations and beyond. Your next breakthrough idea may come from a Chief Influencer facing similar challenges in a completely different sector.