Episode 69
Navigating the Digital Battleground: Mobilising for Change in a Pivotal Election Year
We chat with Berry Cochrane, CEO of Forward Action
As the UK hurtles towards a momentous election, the digital landscape has become a fierce battleground where the fight for hearts and minds is being waged. In this crucial episode, we sit down with Berry Cochrane, CEO of digital mobilisation agency Forward Action, to explore how charities and organisations in the for good space can harness the power of digital to drive change and build people power at scale.
With a wealth of experience from leading digital teams at Greenpeace and Amnesty International UK, Berry brings a unique perspective on what it takes to stand out in a crowded online space. She shares eye-opening insights on how organisations can craft creative campaigns that cut through the noise and prompt meaningful action, like Forward Action's impactful work on the Rwanda deportation flights.
But as the election looms, the challenges are mounting. Berry dives deep into the pervasive issue of online misinformation and disinformation, offering practical strategies for how charities can prepare and protect their communities from the onslaught of fake news that threatens to drown out vital voices.
In a world where traditional mobilisation tactics are losing their edge, Berry reveals the urgent need for organisations to innovate and adapt. She explores the untapped potential of digital organising to build volunteer power and shares how Forward Action is pushing the boundaries of what's possible in the realm of AI-powered campaigning.
As the stakes couldn't be higher, this episode is a clarion call for progressive leaders to embrace the power of digital mobilisation. Berry challenges us to create meaningful calls to action that inspire people to become agents of change, reminding us that every click, share, and online action has the potential to shape the future of our society.
Tune in to discover how you can navigate the digital minefield of this election year and emerge as a force for good. The time to mobilise is now – let's seize this moment and build a movement that will be felt for generations to come.
In tech news, Paul and Zoe chat through the latest AI election developments, including how these technologies are being used to target younger voters.
Please note our interview with Berry was recorded before the UK election was announced.
Notes
Find out more about Forward Action
Tech news
TikTok users being fed misleading election news- BBC story https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c1ww6vz1l81o
Broadcasters cannot stop ‘deepfakes’ and misinformation on election day- Yahoo news
https://uk.news.yahoo.com/broadcasters-cannot-stop-deepfakes-misinformation-121540189.html
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Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas
Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music
Full transcript of this episode (srt file)
Full transcript of this episode (.txt file)
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