Interview with Julie Borowski: Profiles in Digital Activism (Part I) - 9/24/13
Channel: Tiffany Madison - Curiosity Foundry
Date: 2013-09-24

As a movement, libertarians or libertarian-leaning conservatives are in the midst of an ideological revival organized largely online. Blessed by the ability to connect with fellow thinkers and activists, leaders, writers, policy-analysts use popular platforms to evangelize the principles of individual and economic liberty. 

Several advocates are succeeding in translating their social media activism into political success. One such mover-and-shaker is Julie Borowski, also known to Youtube audiences as Token Libertarian Girl.

The 24-year old energetic humorist burst onto the social media scene during the 2012 election campaign, creating videos in her bedroom to challenge media narratives and misconceptions about policy and candidate Ron Paul. Her channel reaches millions and has grown to 38,000 subscribers. 

Borowski is a policy analyst for FreedomWorks and the Center for Competitive Politics and sits on the advisory board for the Coalition to Reduce Spending. Her writing is featured on several venues, including Reason, The Blaze and Town Hall.

I sat down with Julie as the first interview in a series of 12 to document profiles in 21st century digital activism. 

00:00 Introduction

1:35 As a movement we're blessed to connect with others globally via social media. These are effective methods of communication and inspiring action. The purpose is to advance liberty, but hope that energy translates to actionable success. Can you share a moment when you realized your effortss were making a difference?

2:17 Julie responds.

3:43 20 or 30 years ago, idea exchange and social change were all caged by limited technology. Social media has forever altered human communication. Activists that are serious about sparking change have amazing possibilities at their fingertips, but the public glare can be overwhelming. Prior to taking that step, did you have reservations or fears? How did you overcome them?

4:14 Julie responds. 

4:57 Have you mentored others? You've conquered the Youtube venue and built a personal brand, have any others reached out to you for moral support? 

5:23 Julie responds. 

5:31 What is the number one obstacle or fear others may have? 

5:41 Julie responds.

6:14 From a woman's perspective, have you had any issues with safety and security as an online social media activist in the public venue? 

6:30 Julie responds. 

6:50 It's astounding how opportunities and connections that we never imagine would appear become possible when you pursue your passions. What doors has your online activism opened for you? Any that might not have been possible without your step into public? 

7:13 Julie responds. 

7:39 Do you feel like people are becoming more receptive to libertarians because of social media activism? Or other reasons? 

8:17 Julie responds. 

8:40 In terms of outreach, every movement that seeks to advance must build coalitions. What do you think is the biggest challenge for libertarians seeking to use social media to share libertarian ideas? 

9:18 Julie responds. 

10:32 Do you personally have a methodology to engage with others politely when tensions get high during debates or idea exchanges?

11:11 Julie responds. 

11:49 Internet debates can become long-winded. You translate complicated ideas into digestible information. What issues should we be discussing as the focus, ideas that are easy for others to understand. 

12:43 Julie responds. 

13:43 If you were to give advice to someone that is considering taking the next step in social media. Do you have any advice based on your personal mission for liberty or convictions that you want to share to motivate others? 

17:16 Julie responds. 

14:44 Sign off.