Adult Ed Advocast E23: Communicating for Change

Adult Ed Advocast Toolbox E4: Advocacy Sound Bites That Don’t Feel Scripted

Why do some advocacy messages stick while others fall flat? In this short Toolbox episode, we break down how PR and media professionals prepare sound bites that sound natural, not rehearsed, and how adult education advocates can use the same approach. You will learn the simple 10, 30, and 60 second model for delivering one clear idea in real time. This works for policymaker meetings, funder conversations, and on-the-spot questions. No scripts. No rambling. Just clear, confident messaging that is easier to remember and repeat. A practical, no-fluff listen for adult education professionals and advocates.

Adult Ed Advocast E23: Communicating for Change

Effective advocacy isn’t about saying more—it’s about saying what matters clearly and credibly. In this episode, Lauren Zelt draws on her experience in media production, public affairs, and issue-based communications to break down what makes advocacy messages stick. Together, we explore how adult education advocates can use storytelling, sound bites, and message discipline to communicate complex work with confidence—especially in high-stakes conversations with funders, policymakers, and decision-makers.

Adult Ed Advocast Toolbox E3: How to Talk Workforce Without Losing Your Message

When we talk about adult education, it’s easy to focus on confidence, community, and personal growth—but in workforce conversations, we also need to speak the language of skills and economic mobility. In this Advocast Toolbox episode, Erin Vobornik shares practical ways to frame adult education in workforce terms without losing the heart of your message. Learn how to connect with employer and policymaker priorities while still advocating for all learners, regardless of their path or goal.

Adult Ed Advocast E22: Advocating at the Crossroads - Where Workforce and Adult Education Align

Adult education and workforce development share the same goal: building opportunity for people and prosperity for communities. In this episode, Erin Vobornik speaks with Jaimie Francis from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation about where these systems naturally align—and how education and employer voices can come together for greater impact. Jaimie shares national insights, real-world success stories (including the Kalamazoo childcare collaborative), and practical advice for policymakers and advocates working at the intersection of learning and labor.

Adult Ed Advocast Toolbox E2: How to Support Learners in Telling Their Stories

In this Advocast Toolbox episode, Erin Vobornik outlines how educators, mentors, and COABE Ambassadors can coach adult learners to prepare and deliver their stories with confidence. Learn how to create safe spaces, guide with empathy, and connect personal stories to advocacy goals—key skills in the COABE Ambassador Training program.