Shannon Watts, the Founder of Moms Demand Action and author of 'Fired Up,' shares her inspiring journey from corporate PR to grassroots activism after the Sandy Hook tragedy. She emphasizes how starting before you’re ready can spark significant change, particularly for women and mothers. The conversation dives into the emotional resilience required in advocacy, how burnout can transform perspective, and the incredible power women have in driving societal change. Shannon's insights offer a motivating call to action for anyone ready to make a difference.
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question_answer ANECDOTE
Start of Moms Demand Action
Shannon Watts started Moms Demand Action after the Sandy Hook shooting while folding laundry and watching the news.
She created a Facebook page called One Million Moms for Gun Control, which went viral quickly.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Organizing with Volunteers
Shannon organized volunteers by state leaders based on skills they offered, like lawyers or website developers.
She connected with Mothers Against Drunk Driving for guidance on grassroots organizing.
insights INSIGHT
Mothers as Activism Drivers
Mothers possess a unique strength due to fear for their children's safety and creative activism.
Women, especially mothers, are the driving force behind many social movements due to limited access to traditional power.
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In "Fired Up: How to Turn Your Spark into a Flame and Come Alive at Any Age," Shannon Watts shares insights and advice for women seeking purpose and fulfillment. Drawing from interviews with over 70 women from diverse backgrounds, Watts explores the formula for becoming a 'fire starter' by aligning abilities, desires, and values. She addresses the challenges women face in prioritizing their own aspirations amidst societal expectations and obligations. The book offers guidance on overcoming obstacles, navigating the 'messy middle' of change, and handling criticism. Watts encourages women to embrace their unique potential and take action towards creating a more authentic and fulfilling life. With practical advice and inspiring stories, "Fired Up" empowers women to identify their passions and ignite positive change in their communities and beyond.
Twelve years ago, Shannon Watts was folding laundry when breaking news stopped her in her tracks: a mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary. The next morning, she woke up with a fire inside her, and turned her grief and rage into action.
That action became Moms Demand Action, now part of Everytown for Gun Safety, the largest gun violence prevention organization in the country. In today’s episode, Shannon joins Jessi Hempel to reflect on the grassroots journey that began in her kitchen and grew into a national movement.
Shannon’s new book, Fired Up, is a call to action for women everywhere who are ready to turn their spark into action, but aren’t sure where to start.
Hello Monday with Jessi Hempel