The Role of Storytelling in Viral Content: How Brian O'Connor Grew His Following from 0 to 85,000 (MU Classic)

Aug 3, 2025

In this engaging discussion, Brian O'Connor, a fractional CMO and digital nomad, reveals how he built a vibrant online community of 85,000 followers. He highlights the power of storytelling in capturing attention and fostering trust. Transitioning from corporate consulting to entrepreneurship, Brian shares tips on effective content creation and platform engagement strategies across Twitter and LinkedIn. He emphasizes the importance of newsletters for consistent readership and offers insights on creating simple, shareable content that resonates with audiences.

48:18

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ANECDOTE

From Boardrooms To Twitter Threads

Brian moved from corporate consulting into sharing Fortune 500 frameworks with small business owners online.
That shift grew his audience and led to consulting clients and new businesses.

insights

INSIGHT

Write To Beat Cat Videos

Great ideas alone don't work on social; you must write for skimmers beating cat videos.
Brian realized internet writing needs hooks, entertainment, and low effort consumption.

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ADVICE

Learn Copywriting Relentlessly

Study storytelling and copywriting consistently until your writing improves.
Brian read many books and practiced daily, sacrificing weekends to learn craft.

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From Corporate Life to Entrepreneurial Success: The Power of Storytelling

01:39 • 4min

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From Zero to 85,000: Mastering Social Media Growth

05:28 • 10min

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Navigating Consultancy and Social Media Engagement

15:34 • 5min

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Navigating LinkedIn's Algorithm and Content Strategy

20:46 • 11min

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Navigating Audience Shifts and Effective Monetization Strategies

31:59 • 3min

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Building Trust Through Storytelling and Engagement

34:48 • 15min

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Concluding Insights on Audience Growth Through Storytelling

49:26 • 2min

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#526 What's the key to reaching your raving fans? In this episode, host Brien Gearin welcomes back Brian O’Connor, fractional CMO, digital nomad, and owner of TalentHQ. They dive into the art of building an engaged online audience, leveraging storytelling and copywriting to grow a following from scratch. Brian shares his journey from corporate consulting to entrepreneurship, scaling his personal brand to 85,000 followers across Twitter and LinkedIn and amassing 14,000 newsletter subscribers. He offers actionable insights on content creation, platform selection, and fostering relationships that drive business growth. Plus, hear his take on how being a digital nomad has shaped his career and connections. Packed with valuable tips for entrepreneurs looking to amplify their presence online, this episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to level up their personal brand!

(Original Air Date - 11/27/24)

What we discuss with Brian:

+ Growing an Online Audience: 85,000 followers on Twitter and LinkedIn

+ Storytelling for Engagement: Using stories to capture attention and build trust

+ Corporate to Entrepreneur: Transitioning from consulting to business ownership

+ Email vs. Social Media: Importance of newsletters for consistency and trust

+ Platform Differences: Twitter, LinkedIn, and YouTube engagement strategies

+ Effective Writing: Simple, shareable, low-effort content creation

+ Distribution for Virality: Building networks to amplify content reach

+ Video Content’s Impact: Building trust through video over text

+ Monetizing an Audience: From info products to consulting services

+ Digital Nomad Life: Running a business while exploring 20+ countries

Thank you, Brian!

Check out TalentHQ at ⁠TalentHQ.co⁠.

Download Brian's ⁠Onboarding Guide⁠.

Subscribe to Brian's newsletter at ⁠OutlierGrowth.com⁠.

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