Episode 209: How can we build trust, bridge divides, and engage communities?

Episode 209: How can we build trust, bridge divides, and engage communities?

From The Smart Communications Podcast by Big Duck

April 15, 2026 · 25 min

About this episode

The episode discusses strategies for nonprofits to build trust and engage communities during times of division.

How can nonprofits connect more meaningfully with the people they serve during times of deep division and declining trust? Farra Trompeter, co-director, talks with Doug Hattaway, president of Hattaway Communications, and Erica Pelletreau, founder and CEO of The Pelletreau Group, about the science and strategy behind building trust, bridging divides, and fostering real community engagement. Drawing on the Trust Playbook developed for The Communications Network, they share practical insights on addressing misconceptions, using plain language, and designing communications that prioritize listening, relationships, and shared goals.

People in this episode

Host: Farra Trompeter

Guests: Doug Hattaway, Erica Pelletreau

Topics covered

  • building trust
  • community engagement
  • nonprofit communication
  • bridging divides
  • declining trust
  • misconceptions
  • plain language

Keywords

  • trust
  • community
  • nonprofits
  • engagement
  • communication
  • strategy
  • listening
  • relationships
  • shared goals

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Hattaway Communications, The Pelletreau Group, The Communications Network

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