How to Fight Back Against Anti-Urbanism Lies (w/The Urban Truth Collective)
Summary
Jason from Not Just Bikes interviews the Urban Truth Collective—Brent Toderian, Tom Rovello, and Grant Dennis—about their new initiative to combat urban disinformation through strategic communication. They discuss reframing narratives around issues like the "15-minute city" conspiracy and road safety to reach broader audiences. The group aims to empower policymakers and the public by translating complex urban planning truths into persuasive, accessible messaging.
Topics discussed
Introducing the Urban Truth Collective and its members
Mission: Pushing back against urban misinformation
The parental perspective on street safety and design
Broadening scope beyond just transportation issues
Social media strategy and avoiding bot-filled platforms
Using posters to reframe narratives on speed and freedom
Repetition and overcoming urbanist in-jokes
Campaign: Organizing against the 'One-Hour City'
Why debunking conspiracy theories doesn't work
Media manipulation and the 15-minute city stigma
Taking back language and the power of repetition
Conclusion and Nebula sponsorship
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