Jonathan Adkins, CEO of the Governors Highway Safety Association, Named Chief Influencer

The Communications Board names Jonathan Adkins, CEO of the Governors Highway Safety Association, a Chief Influencer.

What does it take to influence behavior when the stakes are measured in lives saved? In this episode of Chief Influencer, Jonathan Adkins shares how communication, storytelling, and coalition-building can drive meaningful change in one of America’s most urgent public safety challenges.

Having risen from a communications background to lead a national organization, Adkins reflects on why communicators are uniquely positioned to become influential leaders and why they deserve a seat at the decision-making table from the very beginning.

Throughout the conversation, Adkins explores the power of combining data with human stories to inspire action, shape policy, and change behavior. He discusses how authenticity, active listening, and consistent engagement help leaders build trust in a fragmented and polarized environment. Whether through advocacy campaigns, podcasts, social media, or in-person conversations, Adkins demonstrates that influence is only valuable when it leads to measurable outcomes. His leadership offers a compelling reminder that the most effective influencers are not necessarily the loudest voices in the room, but the ones who connect people, purpose, and action in ways that create lasting impact.

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

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Transcript