CCL Training: Virtual Conservative Conference & Lobby Day Q&A

This episode of Citizens' Climate Lobby's training program focuses on preparing volunteers for the Virtual Conservative Conference and Lobby Day, scheduled for April 18th and April 21st, respectively. Host Allison Cabiscoe welcomes attendees and introduces key team members, including Mindy Aller, CCL's Congressional Liaison Program Director, and Jennifer Tyler, Vice President of Government Affairs. The session outlines the structure of the virtual conference, which includes keynote speakers, panels with conservative environmental partners, and training sessions, all designed to foster conservative engagement in climate advocacy. The second half centers on Lobby Day logistics, emphasizing the importance of team-based preparation, professional conduct, and the strategic use of personal stories to build trust with Republican members of Congress. Jennifer Tyler highlights the primary asks: permitting reform to accelerate clean energy development and the Fix Our Forest Act to combat wildfire risks, both framed as urgent, bipartisan opportunities. The training stresses that personal narratives from conservative constituents are critical to shifting congressional priorities from policy awareness to action. Key takeaways include the need to develop a concise, personal story linking energy innovation to conservative values like affordability, national security, and local economic growth; the importance of team collaboration and practice before meetings; and the strategic use of the Hickenlooper-Padilla transmission framework as a concrete starting point for dialogue. Volunteers are encouraged to review training materials, attend planning sessions, and avoid automated note-taking to maintain trust. The episode concludes with a call to action, urging listeners to join CCL, access resources, and advocate for climate solutions through their voices as trusted conservative messengers. The overall tone is energized, collaborative, and mission-driven, with a strong emphasis on practical preparation and political impact.