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In this episode, I sit down with Brendan Kane—strategist, speaker, and author of Hook Point—to talk about what really drives social media success. Spoiler alert: it's not hacks, trends, or frequency. Brendan breaks down why storytelling beats every algorithm trick in the book and how creators can find sustainable, repeatable success by understanding proven content formats. We dive deep into the five steps to virality, what most people get wrong about content creation, and why shifting from passive to active consumption can transform your strategy. Brendan also unpacks what formats are, why they unlock creativity (not restrict it), and how even a single tweak in your delivery can massively shift performance. If you’ve ever felt like you’re spinning your wheels online, this conversation will help you realign your approach and focus on what actually works.
Timestamps:
(00:00) - Introduction
(01:02) - Why storytelling matters
(03:26) - Algorithms favor great stories
(06:01) - Five-step social media success formula
(08:57) - The role of content formats
(12:10) - Format vs. trend: the big shift
(15:23) - How to find your winning format
(18:12) - What makes a video go viral
(21:40) - Creating ideas within formats
(25:00) - Real example: Tanner’s bag deconstructions
(28:34) - Monetizing without selling
(31:15) - ROI = size of your vision
(33:50) - Why consistency and time matter
(36:28) - One video at a time
(38:45) - Learning through reflection
(40:55) - Final thoughts and teaser for Part 2
Check out today's guest, Brendan Kane:
Brendan's Website: https://brendanjkane.com/
Brendan's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrendanJamesKane/
Brendan's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brendankane/?hl=en
Brendan's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BrendanKane/
Check out The Futur:
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Courses: https://www.thefutur.com/shop
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Podcasts: https://thefutur.com/podcast
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Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/thefuturishere
Check out Chris Do:
Website: https://zaap.bio/thechrisdo
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/thechrisdo/
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/BizOfDesign
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