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For many nonprofits, earned media is a powerful way to raise awareness, build credibility, and connect with new supporters. But when stories involve lived experiences of trauma, the stakes are high. 

On this episode of When Bearing Witness, I’m joined by Amanda Clelland, Director of Communications and Advocacy at Thistle Farms in Nashville. Amanda has spent nearly 15 years in nonprofit and government communications, and today she leads the messaging, media, and advocacy work for an organization that supports women survivors.

Amanda and I talk about why nonprofit communicators must approach journalists with both strategy and care, ensuring that press opportunities do not come at the expense of the very people they aim to serve.

This episode will encourage you to think critically about your media relationships, the guidelines you set, and the culture of consent you create.

About Amanda Clelland

Amanda is the Director of Communications and Advocacy at Thistle Farms, a Nashville-based nonprofit and social enterprise that serves women survivors of human trafficking and prostitution. There, she leverages earned media and storytelling to educate and advocate for change. Amanda's passion for storytelling and creating positive change through communications has led her to work in both government and nonprofit sectors for nearly 15 years in legislative, membership, and media relations. She guides the Thistle Farms' messaging, storytelling, and media strategies as well as oversees the organization's public policy and advocacy work on the local, state, and federal levels. She is a longtime volunteer and advocate for women's health and domestic violence organizations in Nashville.

Connect with Amanda Clelland

Thistle Farms Website | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook

About Host Maria Bryan

Maria Bryan is a trauma-informed storytelling trainer. She helps nonprofit leaders tell powerful and impactful stories that resist harm. Maria has over fifteen years in marketing communications in the public sector. She has a Master’s Degree in Public Administration, a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism, and is professionally certified in Trauma & Resilience, Trauma-Informed Space Holding, Trauma-Informed Coaching, and Somatic Embodiment & Regulation. Maria is a firm believer that storytellers make the world a healthier, safer, cleaner, and happier place.

Connect with Maria

Speaking & Training | LinkedIn | Email