Candace Lightner: Founder of Mothers Against Drunk Driving and We Save Lives (ep. 856)

Candace Lightner is the founder of MADD: Mothers Against Drunk Driving and We Save Lives, nationally and internationally recognized organizations reshaping America's response to drunk driving. After her 13-year-old daughter, Cari, was killed by a repeat drunk driver in 1980, Candace transformed unimaginable grief into a grassroots movement that has saved more than 600,000 lives and led to the passage of over 700 state and federal laws, including raising the drinking age to 21.

Today, Candace shares how she turned heartbreak into bold action, why anger can be a catalyst instead of a curse, and what it takes to change laws and culture. She explains why words matter—it's not an "accident," it's a crash or a crime—and how ordinary people, especially grieving mothers, became powerful advocates nationwide. She also reveals how her work continues today through campaigns addressing drunk, drugged, and distracted driving, empowering passengers to speak up and pushing for accountability.

My friends, if you've ever looked at injustice and thought, "Someone should do something," this conversation is for you. You'll leave reminded that one voice (your voice!) can spark change, and that grief and anger can be turned into impact.