HBR IdeaCast

Moms Demand Action Founder on What It Takes to Lead Change

69 snips
Jun 24, 2025
Shannon Watts shares her journey from personal tragedy to leading a movement for gun safety. She emphasizes the power of coalition-building and how aligning personal values can drive activism. The effectiveness of grassroots campaigns like the 'momcott' demonstrates how consumer actions can shift corporate policies. Watts also discusses the challenges of balancing activism with personal life and the importance of strategic networking for women leaders. Ultimately, she inspires listeners to turn their passions into meaningful change.
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ANECDOTE

Founding Moms Demand Action

  • Shannon Watts was deeply affected by the Sandy Hook school shooting, which sparked her into action.
  • She started Moms Demand Action by creating a simple Facebook post that quickly grew into a large movement.
ADVICE

Align Passion with Community

  • Identify your values, abilities, and desires to find if a cause fits you.
  • Join a community to find support and shared motivation for sustained action.
ADVICE

Keep Volunteers Engaged

  • Help people feel like they are winning to keep them engaged.
  • Create a supportive group where people find like-minded allies to maintain motivation.
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