Feb 9, 2026
It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the onslaught of horrible headlines. But advocates need to fight, and words are our weapons. But the problem is, lawyers are never taught how to cut through the noise and get to the heart of the argument.
Part 1 defined the problem: Abuse of Power; Trump exerting total control over the Department of Justice to weaponize the law against his enemies. Don Lemon is the target de jure.
In this, Part 2 of “Absolute Power” we consult with communications expert Dr. Randy Olson on how to cut the noise and speak clear truth to power. But it’s not easy, particularly when the powers that be engage in Steve Bannon’s strategy of “flooding the zone with shit.” Therefore, Dr. Olson provides valuable guidance on how we can better communicate the truth of what’s happening.
IN THIS EPISODE:
- Cutting through the information maelstrom to find the central theme of your communication (the “Dobzhansky” template);
- Understanding the power of narrative;
- Messaging for turbulent times;
- How Steve Bannon weaponizes non-narrative to “Flood the Zone with Shit”;
- “The Gish Gallop”;
- The “DNA” of narrative: Dream, Nightmare, Action;
- Constructive critique of Abbe Lowell’s press release in the Don Lemon case;
- The key to narrative is proper framing;
- A musical finale – in honor of friends and family in Minnesota – “Hospital in Duluth” (written and performed by Doug Passon, with Ken Murray on harmonica).
LINKS:
MORE ON DR. RANDY OLSON & THE "ABT" NARRATIVE TEMPLATE