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Science of Good

Science of Good

By: Kevin Smith & Roshanda Pratt
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The Science of Good is an interview series aimed at helping cause leaders from non-profits, government agencies, and foundations. We talk with those who disrupt the status quo and achieve measurable change against our toughest societal problems. Sometimes it's a swap meet for comms strategies and behavioral change principles. Other times, staying inspired is all that matters. And, every once in a while, a venting session breaks out among those who can truly understand. Regardless, building community and learning from one another is always the goal.

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Episodes
  • Science of Good: Missouri Foundation for Health

    Science of Good: Missouri Foundation for Health
    18 Jun 2026
    The Science of Good is an interview series aimed at helping cause leaders from nonprofits, government agencies, and foundations. We talk with those who disrupt the status quo and achieve measurable change against our toughest societal problems. Sometimes it's a swap meet for comms strategies and behavioral change principles. Other times, staying inspired is all that matters. And, every once in a while, a venting session breaks out among those who can truly understand. Regardless, building community and learning from one another is always the goal. In this episode, we sit down with leaders from the Missouri Foundation for Health and their grantee, Shelby County Cares, to discuss their efforts in combating rising firearm suicides in rural and farming communities. The conversation explores the complexities of engaging rural communities in dialogue about firearm safety, overcoming stigma, and implementing strategic initiatives to prevent firearm suicides. The discussion highlights the importance of trust, community engagement, and adapting to the unique cultural contexts of farming communities. Tune in to hear insights on navigating polarized environments, the role of storytelling in measuring progress, and sustaining hope in challenging times.00:00 Introduction to Missouri Foundation for Health00:35 Meet the Team and Grantee01:20 Challenges in Rural Communities02:25 Unique Approaches to Firearm Suicide Prevention03:09 Understanding Community Identities04:17 Targeting Marginalized Communities06:41 Effective Communication Strategies12:38 Building Trust in Conversations13:28 Grounded Hope and Incremental Change17:07 Measuring Progress and Storytelling23:35 Planning and Implementation Phases28:40 Concluding Thoughts and EncouragementWho is Kevin Smith: Kevin is the firm’s leading expert in harnessing behavioral science for social impact. He has directed research-driven communications programs that benefit the public good for hundreds of nonprofits, foundations, and government agencies throughout an agency career that included stops on Madison Avenue. Today, Kevin helps clients apply behavioral economics as a strategic clarifier in developing communications that help people adopt life-changing behaviors. To that end, he has recently directed the largest statewide contraceptive access initiative in the US, resulting in a 58% reduction in the number of unwanted pregnancies. Follow Kevin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinsmithatfgsakes Check out Kevin’s insights: https://fgsakes.com/insights Who Is Roshanda E. Pratt: Roshanda specializes in unearthing the factors behind human behaviors and articulating stories that move people to action. It’s expertise borne of her background as a journalist and researcher and honed through many years as a communications and public relations specialist. An established online influencer and accomplished instructor in building brand visibility, Roshanda works with other specialists in the firm to develop and implement consumer awareness and education content across all platforms, from video production and social media to traditional earned media and community relations. Follow Roshanda: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roshandaepratt/
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    31 min
  • Science of Good: Rosie Drumgoole

    Science of Good: Rosie Drumgoole
    10 Feb 2026

    In this episode, we dive into a conversation with Rosie Drumgoole, CEO of Chicago Cares, an organization dedicated to mobilizing volunteers to build stronger and more unified communities in the windy city. Rosie discusses the organization's mission to act in solidarity with community leaders and the importance of leveraging relationships and resources to support local needs. The dialogue explores the evolution of community engagement, especially under the pressures of current social and economic challenges, and how volunteerism can be a powerful tool for connection and resilience. Rosie shares insights from a recent panel on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), discusses the impact of ongoing ICE raids in Chicago on community work, and emphasizes the importance of joy and hope in her organization's operations. The episode also touches on the critical role of transparent communication and adapting volunteer strategies to foster a sense of community in trying times. Finally, the discussion highlights the importance of nonprofit leaders taking care of themselves amidst the demanding nature of their work. Tune in to be inspired by stories of community solidarity and the impactful work being done to maintain and grow human connections in times of adversity.

    00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
    00:21 Overview of Chicago Cares
    01:38 Navigating DEI Challenges
    02:59 Community Impact and Corporate Partnerships
    06:13 Current Social Climate in Chicago
    13:43 Maintaining Joy and Purpose in Nonprofit Work
    21:27 The Importance of Physical Community
    26:10 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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    28 min
  • Science of Good: Dr. Lila Anna Sauls

    Science of Good: Dr. Lila Anna Sauls
    26 Aug 2025

    The Science of Good is an interview series aimed at helping cause leaders from nonprofits, government agencies, and foundations. We talk with those who disrupt the status quo and achieve measurable change against our toughest societal problems. Sometimes it's a swap meet for comms strategies and behavioral change principles. Other times, staying inspired is all that matters. And, every once in a while, a venting session breaks out among those who can truly understand. Regardless, building community and learning from one another is always the goal.

    In this episode, Dr. Lila Anna Sauls, CEO of 'Homeless No More,' shares her insights on leading a nonprofit organization through challenging times marked by unprecedented federal budget cuts. With over 30 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, Lila Anna discusses the strategies her team employs to stay on mission, the importance of strategic planning, and the need for advocacy and systemic change. She also highlights the innovative approaches they take to providing emergency shelters, transitional support, and affordable housing development. The conversation covers the delicate balance of sustaining the organization, communicating transparently with donors and families, and maintaining hope and resilience in the face of adversity.

    00:00 Introduction to Dr. Lila Anna Sauls and Homeless No More
    00:29 Welcome to the Science of Good Podcast
    01:06 Mission and Work of Homeless No More
    01:50 Advocacy and Systemic Changes
    02:31 Impact of Federal Budget Cuts
    03:27 Communication Strategies with Donors and Families
    06:50 Strategic Planning and Organizational Resilience
    10:01 Board and Team Dynamics
    14:28 Affordable Housing Challenges and Solutions
    18:32 Stories of Impact and Hope
    20:10 Closing Thoughts and Reflections
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    24 min
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