Join Coach Dan Gordon as he interviews Patrick Reynolds, a unique guest who transformed his family’s dark legacy into a mission to save lives. As a member of the RJ Reynolds family, Patrick faced the harsh reality of a business responsible for millions of deaths. Instead of hiding from his past, he chose to stand against the tobacco industry. Patrick, now the Executive Director of Tobacco Free Earth, shares his journey from witnessing his father’s death due to smoking to becoming a prominent advocate for tobacco control. Learn how Patrick’s passion and resilience led to significant policy changes and a decline in smoking rates, and hear about his heartfelt efforts to help those affected by tobacco addiction. Don’t miss this inspiring and courageous story of redemption and advocacy.
Five Badass Q&As
Q1: What was your first memory of recognizing that your family name was part of a dark history?
A1: My first real awakening was seeing my father lying down, gasping for breath, saying he had asthma. When I asked if it was related to his smoking, he denied it, even as he smoked a cigarette.
Q2: When you started your advocacy, did you face any accusations of being insincere or seeking publicity?
A2: I was often accused of seeking publicity because I was an actor. My response was always that my father died from smoking, and that’s why I care deeply about this issue.
Q3: What motivated you to testify before Congress against the tobacco industry?
A3: Initially, I was hesitant, but the more I learned about the tobacco industry, the angrier I became. The tipping point was realizing I could make a significant difference and honor my father’s memory.
Q4: How did you handle the mixed reactions from the public and your family?
A4: I focused on the mission. While some saw me as a hero and others as a traitor, I knew I was doing the right thing. I remained authentic and continued my advocacy despite the criticism.
Q5: What has been the impact of your efforts in the fight against tobacco?
A5: Our combined efforts in raising tobacco taxes, implementing smoking bans, and educating youth have led to a decline of over 50% in the smoking rate in America. This is a significant achievement in public health.
Five Badass Quotes
1. My only memories of my father are of him dying from smoking. That’s why I do this work.
2. Raising the tobacco tax could save millions of lives.
3. I chose to stand in the fire of judgment to make amends for my family’s past.
4. If I can get a little altitude as an actor, think of how much more powerful I can take this message.
5. Doing the right thing is always a lonely, uncertain exercise.
Five Badass Takeaways
1. Face your family’s dark past with courage and transparency.
2. Use your platform, no matter how small, to advocate for change.
3. Authenticity and passion can turn criticism into impactful action.
4. Persistence in advocacy leads to significant public health improvements.
5. Combining personal experience with public activism creates powerful change.
Contact Info
Tobacco Free Earth http://tobaccofree.org
Be An Elf: BeAnElf.org
Chapters
0:00 Introduction
8:34 Meet Patrick Reynolds
12:08 Patrick’s First Memory of Tobacco’s Impact
25:22 Public Testimony and Media Training
31:24 Acting Career and Public Advocacy
40:08 Facing Criticism and Envy
48:02 Patrick’s Charitable Work with Be An Elf
56:09 Closing Remarks
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