Mike Graglia, CEO of Cure SYNGAP1, Named Chief Influencer

The Communications Board names Mike Graglia, Founder and CEO of Cure SYNGAP1, a Chief Influencer.

What does it take to build a global movement around a rare disease that most people have never heard of? In this episode of Chief Influencer, Mike Graglia shares how a deeply personal challenge became the catalyst for a worldwide effort to accelerate research, unite families, and push toward a cure for SYNGAP1.

After his child’s diagnosis, Graglia turned to storytelling, community-building, and relentless communication to connect a scattered global audience around a shared mission.

Through authentic leadership and a willingness to experiment, Graglia transformed simple tools, including a low-production video podcast, into powerful platforms for influence. He explains how consistently showing up, sharing knowledge openly, and building trust before asking for action helped mobilize researchers, families, volunteers, and industry leaders alike. His journey demonstrates that influence is not about scale or polish. It is about credibility, connection, and the ability to turn personal purpose into collective momentum.

Host: Anthony Shop
Guest: Mike Graglia
Producer: The Communications Board
Sponsor: The George Washington University College of Professional Studies

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Transcript