Turn concern into focused, strategic action with personalized guidance from a front-line activist.
Grassroots leaders are often the first to notice a rail-related threat but are missing specific knowledge, strategic experience, and clear starting point to effectively challenge it. This service closes that gap by turning concern into focused, strategic action.
Who this is for:
- Leaders facing proposed rail terminals or waste routes and wanting to learn what towns can and can’t do when it comes to railway safety
- Leaders wanting to learn more about exposure to risk from railways and hazardous material transportation
- Campaigns seeking effective interventions with toxic industry
- Leaders working on existing rail safety campaigns looking for expert connections and to compare notes
This service is designed to give you clarity, confidence, and a concrete path forward. Whether you’re just learning about a proposed rail project or deep into an active campaign, you’ll walk away with personalized insights, strategic direction, and actionable next steps tailored to your specific situation.
Each engagement begins with a focused 60-minute strategy session where we’ll assess the risks you’re facing, identify leverage points, and map out your most effective options. From there, you can add optional services like a messaging audit or a custom action brief to deepen your campaign’s impact.
How it Works (The Process)
- Complete Your Application – You’ll explain your objectives, barriers, and goals for this session.
- Schedule Your Call – Choose a time on the booking calendar and confirm details
- 60-Minute Strategy Session — Recorded Zoom call for hazard discovery and strategic planning
- Optional Messaging Audit — Expert review of up to two public-facing documents with actionable feedback and ideas to increase the impact of your efforts
- Optional Brief & Action Map — Personalized talking points, permit tracking, ally contacts, and concrete next steps
What this is not
- A substitute for legal representation or formal legal advice
- A guarantee of campaign success or regulatory outcomes
- An on-site investigation or technical assessment service
- Long-term campaign management or ongoing consulting
- A lobbying or direct advocacy service with agencies
About Jess Conard
Jess brings a unique background as both a medical speech pathologist and frontline activist. Her expertise spans rail safety, chemical transport regulations, and community organizing, with a special focus on helping communities understand and navigate complex regulatory systems.
Key Expertise:
- Rail safety regulations and DOT standards
- Understanding where to apply pressure for increased safety
- Chemical transport risk assessment
- Community organizing and civic engagement
- Policy messaging and stakeholder communication
- Healthcare access through disaster declarations
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the strategy session last? The core strategy session is 60 minutes. This focused time allows us to dive into your specific situation, assess risks, identify leverage points, and map out actionable next steps.
What if I’m not sure whether my community is facing a rail safety issue yet? That’s okay! Many leaders come to this service in the early stages of concern. The strategy session can help you understand whether there’s a genuine risk, what questions to ask, and how to gather the information you need to make informed decisions.
Can this service help with legal challenges or regulatory appeals? This service provides strategic guidance and helps you understand the regulatory landscape, but it is not a substitute for legal representation. If legal action is needed, I can help you understand what types of expertise to seek and connect you with relevant resources.
What’s included in the optional Messaging Audit? The Messaging Audit includes expert review of up to two public-facing documents (such as letters, press releases, or campaign materials) with specific feedback on clarity, impact, and strategic positioning. You’ll receive actionable suggestions to strengthen your messaging and increase campaign effectiveness.
What’s included in the optional Brief & Action Map? The Brief & Action Map is a personalized document tailored to your situation. It includes talking points, permit tracking guidance, relevant ally contacts, regulatory touchpoints, and a clear roadmap of concrete next steps to move your campaign forward.
How soon can I schedule my session? Once your application is reviewed and approved, you’ll receive access to the booking calendar where you can choose a time that works for you, typically within 1-2 weeks depending on availability.
Is the session recorded? Yes, the strategy session is recorded via Zoom so you can refer back to the conversation and share key insights with your team. You’ll receive a copy of the recording after the call.
Can I bring team members to the strategy session? Absolutely! You’re welcome to include other leaders or team members from your campaign. Just let me know in advance so we can ensure everyone’s questions and concerns are addressed.
What if my situation changes after the session? Rail safety campaigns often evolve quickly. While this service is designed as a focused engagement rather than ongoing consulting, you’re welcome to book a follow-up session if your situation changes or new challenges arise.
How do I get started? Begin by completing the application form where you’ll describe your situation, objectives, and goals. Once submitted, you’ll receive confirmation and next steps to schedule your strategy session.