What does it really take to go viral? In this episode, we’re joined by Brendan Kane, bestselling author of One Million Followers, The Hook Point, and now The Guide to Going Viral. Brendan is the behind-the-scenes strategist for some of the world’s biggest brands and celebrities, including Taylor Swift, Rihanna, IKEA, Vice, and Sketchers. He once gained over one million followers in 100 countries in just 30 days and has helped clients turn zero visibility into global attention.
In this conversation, Brendan breaks down the myth that virality is just luck. We talk through his data-driven framework for reverse-engineering attention online, how storytelling drives retention, and why most content fails before it even begins. He shares the importance of using repeatable formats, explains the “generalist principle” that helps creators scale without losing their niche, and offers real-world examples from luxury real estate agents to leather crafters who have turned everyday topics into millions of views. We also explore the role of AI in content creation and why even the most advanced tools still depend on your ability to tell a compelling story.
Tune in for a refreshingly realistic take on what actually gets people to watch, share, and remember your content, and how to finally turn viral moments into something that lasts.
—
You can listen to Brendan’s first episode on his book One Million Followers here: https://bit.ly/3TRMVKk
Learn more about the book here: https://a.co/d/etY0dLk
You can also go to hookpoint.com/alex to get a free PDF of the book to check it out.
Make sure to check out Brendan’s website and sign up to his newsletter here: www.hookpoint.com
—
Take a second to follow, review, or share this with someone who might find it useful. Your support helps more people discover the show.
Subscribe to our newsletter here: https://getshelflife.com/category/newsletter/
Head to our new website for more content and updates.: www.getshelflife.com
If you're interested in connecting further or have any questions, feel free to email me at Alex@getshelflife.com
Popular Podcasts
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Special Summer Offer: Exclusively on Apple Podcasts, try our Dateline Premium subscription completely free for one month! With Dateline Premium, you get every episode ad-free plus exclusive bonus content.
24/7 News: The Latest
The latest news in 4 minutes updated every hour, every day.