June 25, 2025
Most founders think they need millions.
Millions of users. Millions in revenue. Millions of likes.
But the ones who last?
They focus on thousands.
Specifically: 1,000 true fans.
You can’t be everything.
Founders often act like Eagles.
Eyes on the horizon. Always scanning for the next big break.
But in the early days, it’s not the Eagle that keeps you alive.
It’s the Wolf.
The Wolf sticks close to the ground.
Tracks what’s working. Builds loyalty. Grows the pack one by one.
I watched a founder burn out chasing hype (new markets, new followers, new launches)
Every time he got close, he’d pivot again.
Big dreams. No base.
Until someone asked him
“Do you have anyone who would buy anything you release?”
He didn’t.
That’s when we introduced him to Kevin Kelly’s idea:
You don’t need everyone.
You just need 1,000 true fans.
The Reframe
“The Eagle sees the future. The Wolf survives it. If you're building something that lasts, start with the pack.”
The New Way
Here’s how he shifted
He let the Wolf lead.
The Outcome
He didn’t go viral.
But he did go sustainable.
1,000 true fans. $100 each per year.
He had a base. He had breathing room.
He had a real business.
The fastest way to go big is to start small.
If you’re trying to grow your business, don’t build for the crowd.
Build for the core.
1,000 people.
$100 of value each.
Deep connection. Direct path.
That’s enough.
What’s a True Fan?
A true fan is someone who:
These fans don’t just “like” you, they believe in you.
If 1,000 of these fans each spend $100 on you per year?
That’s $100,000/year.
In all that we do, let us seek wisdom, discipline, courage & justice.