Testimonial
I just completed this course and found it both educational and enlightening. Parkinson's needs more "storytellers" that reach a bewildered audience. I highly recommend this class! - Greg Ritscher
Testimonial
I really enjoyed the Media Mastery workshop. It was focused and provided a well structured and solid foundation of the principles and practicalities of media dealings. - Peter Jarvis.
Parkinson’s Media Mastery
Parkinson's Media Mastery is a four-week virtual workshop series developed by PD Avengers President Larry Gifford. It's designed to empower individuals affected by Parkinson's disease and other neurodegenerative conditions to effectively harness the power of media for advocacy and awareness. The program helps participants refine their communication skills, craft compelling personal narratives, and engage confidently with various media platforms
Testimonials
The Parkinson's Media Mastery course, expertly led by Larry Gifford, creates a truly respectful and empowering environment for all participants. It provides essential building blocks and practical strategies needed to engage the media and amplify our messages.
Larry's guidance is invaluable, equipping us with the tools to "wake up" both journalists and our target audiences to the critical importance of our PD advocacy. Through dynamic discussions in both small and large groups, we were able to collaboratively develop our ideas, refine our pitches, and learn immensely from each other's experiences. Each session concluded with clear, concise handouts summarizing the key takeaways, reinforcing our learning.
This course is incredibly well-organized and power-packed, offering tangible, actionable insights. It doesn't just teach theory; it empowers participants with the confidence and practical know-how to get their vital messages out into the world. It’s an indispensable resource for anyone looking to make a real impact through media engagement.
Barbara Salsberg Mathews, MEd.
Parkinson's Media Mastery - Level 1
Parkinson’s Media Mastery is a four-week virtual workshop developed by PD Avengers President Larry Gifford. It’s designed to empower individuals affected by Parkinson’s disease and other neurodegenerative conditions to effectively harness the power of media for advocacy and awareness. The program helps participants refine their communication skills, craft compelling personal narratives, and engage confidently with various media platforms.
Whether you're new to advocacy or looking to sharpen your voice, this program will help you align your story with your strategy.
WEEK FOUR
Welcome to Week Four of Parkinson’s Media Mastery—the culmination of your journey to becoming a confident and impactful advocate.
This week, we focus on amplifying your message and sustaining your advocacy efforts. Here's what we'll cover:
Strategic Outreach: Learn how to identify and engage with key stakeholders, including media outlets, policymakers, and community organizations, to broaden the reach of your advocacy.
Leveraging Platforms: Explore various channels—social media, blogs, public speaking—to share your story and insights effectively.
Building Alliances: Understand the importance of networking with fellow advocates, healthcare professionals, and organizations to strengthen your impact.
Sustaining Momentum: Develop strategies to maintain your advocacy efforts over time, ensuring your voice continues to contribute to the Parkinson's community.
As you complete this program, remember that your voice is a powerful tool for change. Your experiences and insights can inspire others and influence positive developments in Parkinson's awareness and research.
Keep advocating, keep connecting, and keep making a difference.
WEEK THREE
Welcome to Week Three of Parkinson’s Media Mastery—where we focus on transforming your personal experiences into compelling narratives that resonate and drive change.
This week, we delve into:
Crafting Your Narrative: Learn how to structure your story to highlight key moments that illustrate the challenges and triumphs of living with Parkinson's.
Connecting Emotionally: Discover techniques to convey your experiences in a way that fosters empathy and understanding among diverse audiences.
Addressing Stigma: Understand how to use storytelling to challenge misconceptions about Parkinson's, particularly around non-motor symptoms, and promote a more nuanced public perception.Senior Connection Center, Inc.
Engaging Through Media: Explore strategies for sharing your story across various platforms—be it interviews, podcasts, or social media—to maximize impact and reach.
By honing your storytelling skills, you'll be better equipped to advocate effectively, inspire others, and contribute to a broader awareness of Parkinson's disease.
Let’s continue to build your narrative toolkit—your voice is a powerful catalyst for change.
WEEK TWO
This week is all about finding your voice and refining your presence. We'll explore:
Vocal Confidence: Techniques to strengthen your voice, manage pacing, and project clarity—especially important if Parkinson’s affects your speech.
Body Language: Strategies to enhance your non-verbal communication, ensuring your message resonates even when words are few.
Storytelling Skills: Crafting narratives that connect emotionally, turning personal experiences into powerful advocacy tools.
Media Engagement: Tips for interviews, podcasts, and public speaking—preparing you to handle questions with poise and authenticity.
Think of this week as building your media muscle.
WEEK ONE
Welcome to Week One of Parkinson’s Media Mastery—your launchpad for becoming a confident, compelling, and credible voice in Parkinson’s advocacy.
This week is all about setting the stage. We’ll explore:
Your "Why": Clarify your personal motivation for speaking out and how it connects to your broader mission.
Audience Awareness: Identify who you’re trying to reach—whether it’s the general public, policymakers, or the Parkinson’s community—and what matters most to them.
Message Mapping: Begin crafting your core message so it’s clear, memorable, and adaptable across different media formats.
Media Mindset: Learn how to approach interviews, storytelling, and public speaking with authenticity and purpose.
Think of this as building your media foundation—one that will support everything from podcast appearances to policy panels. Whether you’re new to advocacy or looking to sharpen your voice, this week will help you align your story with your strategy.
Let’s get started—your voice matters more than ever.