Strategic Vision and Storytelling: Board Member Phoebe Sweet on Advancing Advocacy
At Netcentric Campaigns, we believe the strength of any network comes from the diversity of its members and the collaborative power they bring to solve complex challenges. This belief not only guides the advocacy networks we help foster and grow but is also reflected in the perspectives represented on our board of directors. By bringing together individuals with unique insights and experiences, we enhance our ability to tackle pressing issues and achieve meaningful, lasting change.
One of the ways we continue to grow and learn is by reflecting on the experiences and insights of those who have been instrumental in shaping impactful advocacy efforts. Today, we spotlight Netcentric Board Member Phoebe Sweet, a strategic communicator and passionate advocate whose career exemplifies the transformative power of storytelling and connection in advancing social and environmental justice. Her journey offers lessons in leveraging creativity, focus, and collaboration to drive progress and inspire change.
A Path Fueled by Passion
Phoebe’s commitment to advocacy took root early, inspired by her love for nature and a strong sense of community. Raised by a father who instilled a deep connection to the outdoors, Phoebe began advocating for environmental causes as a child. Her determination led her to take on her elementary school’s balloon launch tradition, educating her principal on the harms of plastic pollution. “We stopped the launches in future years,” she recalls, “which is a pretty good analog for how change often unfolds—incrementally but persistently.”
This sense of purpose followed her into adulthood, shaping a career that spans environmental advocacy, journalism, political communications, and speechwriting. As a journalist in the Northeast and Southwest, Phoebe learned the power of “naming and illuminating” societal problems—a foundation that continues to guide her work today.
A Multifaceted Approach to Change
Phoebe’s professional journey took her from journalism to politics and beyond, exposing her to a wide array of challenges and providing her with a deeper understanding of how to approach complex issues. By working across diverse campaigns—from climate change to gun violence prevention—she gained insights into how different movements operate and the strategies that drive success. “Applying a strategic communications lens across different issues challenges you to think in new ways,” she reflects. “It broadens your perspective and makes your approach to creating change more nuanced and effective.”
One of Phoebe’s most impactful professional experiences was working on Harry Reid’s reelection campaign in 2010—a two-year effort that demanded strategic focus and perseverance. The campaign’s ultimate success taught her the value of long-term commitment and collaboration in achieving ambitious goals. “It was certainly the most life-changing experience I’ve ever had,” she shares, not only for the professional growth it provided but for the enduring personal connections she formed, including a lifelong mentor and trusted colleagues. The experience underscored the importance of building strong teams and networks to tackle complex challenges effectively.
During her time at Climate Nexus, a nonprofit organization focused on advancing climate and clean energy solutions, Phoebe led efforts to reframe the narrative around methane gas. “People were still talking about gas as part of the climate solution,” she explains, “but we knew it was a significant climate problem.”
Phoebe’s team worked to challenge industry-driven messaging by using storytelling, strategic insights, and data to reframe methane’s role in public discourse. The team demonstrated how careful focus and narrative reframing could shift perceptions, encouraging media outlets to reconsider outdated terms like ‘natural gas.’ “The fossil fuel industry has spent decades shaping how we think about energy,” she reflects, “and undoing those narratives requires smart, scrappy, and strategic efforts.” This work not only shifted how some audiences viewed methane but also demonstrated the importance of storytelling and smart strategic work in creating impactful advocacy campaigns.
The Power of Networks and Fresh Perspectives
Phoebe’s connection to Netcentric Campaigns grew from her shared work on energy issues in Pennsylvania. Drawn to the organization’s unique approach to building inclusive, strategic networks, Phoebe sees herself as an “outsider” offering a fresh lens to the board. “I’m here to bring a different perspective, combining my background in strategic communications with the organization’s deep expertise in networks,” she says.
For Phoebe, storytelling isn’t just a communication tool—it’s a way to humanize complex issues and inspire action. She understands the profound impact of advocacy networks in addressing societal challenges and sees raising awareness of the work that Netcentric Campaigns does as a key priority. “We can’t solve a problem if people don’t know it exists,” she explains. Her goal is to help Netcentric Campaigns amplify its work, ensuring more people recognize the impact that connected, resilient movements are having in driving systemic change.
A Call to Action
At Netcentric Campaigns, we believe in the power of networks to create lasting solutions to society’s most pressing challenges. Our board members, like Phoebe Sweet, bring diverse perspectives and invaluable expertise that enrich our work and inspire new approaches to advocacy. Phoebe’s story is a testament to the impact of collaboration, strategic thinking, and the ability to challenge narratives to drive meaningful change.
If you’re passionate about amplifying your advocacy efforts or building stronger, more connected coalitions, we want to partner with you. Whether you’re leading a movement, funding innovative solutions, or working to strengthen your community, Netcentric Campaigns has the tools, expertise, and experience to help you expand your reach and achieve your goals.
Contact us to explore how we can work together to amplify your efforts, connect you with like-minded changemakers, and leverage the power of networks for transformative impact. Together, we can build a more connected and equitable future.