105: Jennifer Dulski | Improving the World with Purposeful Possibilities

Starting Movements

Starting a movement often begins with a clear vision and the courage to take the first step, as Jennifer Dulski explains. She likens it to being the first to stand up and clap at a performance, emphasizing that initial actions, though daunting, are crucial for momentum 1. Dulski shares the story of Charlotte and Dave Willner, who started a small fundraiser that unexpectedly grew into a $20 million movement, illustrating how small steps can lead to significant impact 2.

It's scary. You're going to be the first one standing. But I ask this and sometimes in big audiences of people, "How many of you have been the first to stand up and clap?"

--- Jennifer Dulski

She also highlights the importance of storytelling in movements, using Hank Hunt's campaign for Kari's Law as an example of how personal stories can drive legislative change 3.

   

Early Followers

Embracing early followers is vital for the success of any movement. Jennifer Dulski uses the example of a shirtless dancing man who, by embracing his first follower, sparked a collective dance, illustrating the power of early adopters 4. She recounts the story of Jennifer Cardenas, who started a Facebook group during Hurricane Harvey that rapidly grew to 150,000 members, thanks to the involvement of early followers who took on significant roles 4.

In movements it's about embracing those first few people and also often giving them a role to play that is somewhat significant.

--- Jennifer Dulski

This group successfully coordinated rescues and continues to support members, demonstrating how early engagement can sustain and grow a movement even in challenging circumstances.