We had the good fortune of connecting with Madison Campbell and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Madison, maybe we can start at the very start – the idea – how did you come up with the idea for your business?
The idea for Leda Health came after I had been sexually-assaulted during my study abroad program in college. Because of what I went through, I knew that Leda Health could give some power back to survivors like me, I just had to put in the work. What I needed back then is what I created in Leda Health – early evidence kits that someone can take home with bags for clothing and containers for saliva, cheek, and genital swabs. We also provide sexual health testing. What started as one of the worst moments of my life has now catapulted me into being able to help those that need support, the same way I wish it had been available for me.

When you find a need like I did, I see it as your duty to put it into action. That’s why we’ve now launched Survivor PAC. Survivor PAC has been created to elect candidates who push legislation and are vocal in their support for survivors and victims. In Allegheny County, my home, crime has gotten significantly worse in the last five years and people are increasingly worried about sexual assault and rape. I couldn’t look at news and statistics like this and NOT do more. There is political power in this country, but there needs to be willpower. Survivor PAC is aiming to find and raise up those politicians with willpower.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
When I founded Leda, I had no idea the journey it would take me on. With many accolades and moments I’m proud of, it hasn’t been all smooth-sailing. We certainly hit roadblocks – like receiving a cease and desist letter from an Attorney General. It painted us in a negative light, took a toll on my mental health, and prompted me to take a break from my position as CEO. I never expected rejection for something so vital to survivors. Our kits are to help those who desperately need support in the face of tragedy, so it took me by complete surprise to have that pushback.

Even then, I returned more fired up and ready to take action to really commit to our mission. Giving up isn’t an option for me. I reflected on what was being thrown our way and decided we would come back even stronger with things like Survivor PAC. I am the biggest advocate and will always work to provide resources for survivors like me. That’s why Survivor PAC is so important to me and my team. Our message is clear – we are electing politicians who protect survivors of rape and sexual assault.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If I were to plan a week-long trip for my best friend who’s visiting and loves movies and opera (like myself), here’s what I’d do:

On the first day, we’d start with breakfast at a café with a film-themed décor. Then, we’d head to a famous movie studio for a behind-the-scenes tour. In the evening, we’d have dinner at a restaurant known for celebrity sightings.

The next day would be all about opera. After brunch and a museum visit focused on the history of opera, we’d attend a workshop on opera singing. The highlight would be attending a grand opera performance in the evening.

Day three would involve exploring the city, focusing on locations featured in famous movies and operas, followed by a casual dinner and a visit to a rooftop for amazing views of the city.

The fourth day would be more relaxed. We’d start with a leisurely breakfast, spend some time at a spa, and then explore a local market. Dinner would be at a restaurant known for its fusion cuisine.

On the fifth day, we’d go for an adventure – maybe a day trip to a scenic spot. We’d end the day with a live music performance after a casual dinner.

The sixth day would be dedicated to arts and history, visiting a historic theater and an art gallery, followed by fine dining at a restaurant popular with composers and film directors.

On the last day, we’d have a farewell brunch with spectacular views, take a leisurely stroll through a picturesque part of the city, and finish with a small gathering of locals to understand the culture.

Throughout the week, we’d mix structured activities with free time for casual hangouts at cafes, parks, and other vibrant city spots. This way, each day would offer a balance of activities, culture, relaxation, and exploration, perfect for a movie and opera enthusiast like myself, and my friends.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Truthfully, my team at Leda Health and on Survivor PAC deserve an overwhelming amount of credit. You can have all the ideas in the world, but without hard work behind it, it won’t come to fruition.

Sean Bogle has been extraordinary with his work as our COO and everyone else in between.

They work hard for survivors and provide excellent input and concepts for our company. They’ve truly helped us reach new heights.

Website: https://www.leda.co/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesurvivorpac

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/madisonacampbell

Twitter: https://twitter.com/thesurvivorpac

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thesurvivorpac

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ledahealth1963/videos

Other: https://twitter.com/martyrdison

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