The Think Media Podcast
Episode 404: Meet The Expert That Makes Anyone Go Viral
Release Date: April 10, 2025
Host: Sean Cannell
Guest: Adley, Founder of Viralish
Introduction & Guest Background
In Episode 404 of The Think Media Podcast, Sean Cannell welcomes Adley, the founder of Viralish, a seasoned expert in creating viral video content across multiple platforms. Recorded live at Social Media Marketing World in San Diego, the episode delves into Adley's proven six-part framework designed to exponentially increase video reach, engagement, and ultimately, leads and sales for businesses.
“I'm super pumped because Adley is on the Think Media podcast... How's it going?”
[00:52] Sean Cannell
“It's an honor to be here. I'm so excited for your speech tonight.”
[02:11] Adley
The 6-Part Framework to Go Viral
Adley unveils a comprehensive six-part framework that has consistently enabled videos to achieve viral status. Each component is meticulously crafted to enhance specific aspects of content creation and distribution.
1. Hook
“If you can get 90% retention in your first six seconds, everything else matters.”
[03:17] Adley
The hook is paramount in capturing the audience's attention within the initial moments. Adley emphasizes the necessity of a compelling start to stop the scroll and retain viewers.
- Combo Method: Combining two contrasting elements to create curiosity.
“Combining visuals that don’t normally go together creates a curiosity gap...”
[04:01] Adley
2. Suspense
“Suspense equals retention. It’s the difference between good creators and the best creators.”
[08:36] Adley
Suspense maintains viewer interest throughout the video. By introducing unresolved tension, creators can keep their audience engaged and invested in the narrative.
- Storytelling Example: Drawing parallels with movies like Taken to illustrate sustained tension.
“If Liam Neeson rescued his daughter halfway, would we keep watching?”
[09:18] Sean Cannell
3. Payoff
“The payoff is where people decide how they feel about you.”
[10:12] Adley
The conclusion of the video is crucial for leaving a lasting impression and encouraging actions such as following, sharing, or commenting. A strong payoff resolves the initial curiosity gap and reinforces the video's message.
- Example: Adley shares her own experience with a potentially awkward video that unexpectedly went viral.
“I had $80,000 in my trash can...”
[24:13] Adley
4. Raising the Stakes
“Stakes determine why people care and how you’re going to get a majority of people to watch your video.”
[12:19] Adley
Elevating the stakes involves enhancing the story's importance through elements like location, props, wardrobe, and casting. Higher stakes increase viewer investment and interest.
- Practical Application: Changing video settings to create a more compelling narrative.
“Get on the roof instead of behind a desk to make it more interesting.”
[14:09] Adley
5. Engagement Tactics
“Engagement tactics are just another word for talking points. They’re necessary.”
[35:16] Adley
Encouraging audience interaction through comments and discussions boosts video visibility and algorithm favorability. Subtle Easter eggs or intriguing elements prompt viewers to engage.
- Example: Adley describes a video where hidden elements sparked widespread comments.
“She put tampons in the fridge with ketchup... the entire comment section was talking about it.”
[26:11] Adley
6. Split Testing
“Split testing was our linchpin to success.”
[37:04] Adley
Testing different versions of content to determine what resonates best with the audience is essential. Adley discusses using Facebook dark posts and Instagram trial reels to refine video elements before full publication.
- Method: Running A/B tests on hooks, thumbnails, and captions to optimize performance.
“We would split test hooks, thumbnails, captions differently to see what resonates.”
[38:19] Adley
Practical Examples & Success Stories
Adley shares multiple success stories illustrating the efficacy of her framework. Notable examples include:
-
Egg Tie-Dying Video: A seemingly mundane video that, with a minor adjustment to the hook, skyrocketed from 1,800 to 3.6 million views.
“By restructuring the first few seconds, his video made 3.6 million views.”
[17:32] Adley -
Will Colon’s TikTok Growth: A case where a musician’s experimentation with engaging content led to a dramatic increase in followers.
“He grew 3 million followers in a matter of months by simply changing his approach.”
[20:24] Adley
Tools and Strategies: Instagram Trial Reels
A significant highlight of the conversation is the introduction of Instagram's Trial Reels feature, which Adley identifies as a game-changer for content creators.
“Trial Reels are the number one way to grow on Instagram in 2025.”
[40:09] Sean Cannell
-
Functionality: Allows creators to post reels that are only visible to non-followers, enhancing discoverability without affecting current follower engagement.
“It publishes only to non-followers, automatically placing your content in the Discover section.”
[40:16] Adley -
Implementation Tips: Repost top-performing content and experiment with new hooks to determine the most effective elements for broader reach.
“Repost your best content as trial reels to test different hooks without risking your main feed’s performance.”
[41:05] Adley
Importance of Personal Brand
Adley underscores the critical role of personal branding in achieving long-term success and influence.
“Personal brand will be more valuable than Bitcoin by 2030...”
[25:59] Adley
- Scalability: AI advancements allow for continuous content presence even when creators are unavailable, enhancing brand consistency and reach.
“AI videos with your voice and cloned images ensure your content remains active.”
[33:55] Adley
Action Steps for Listeners
Adley provides actionable steps for listeners to implement her framework and start creating viral content:
-
Engage with Adley:
“Comment the word BVF on any of my Instagram posts and DM me for a free ebook on the formula.”
[42:35] Adley -
Start Split Testing:
Use tools like trial reels to experiment with different content variations and refine based on performance metrics.
“Repost your best content as trial reels and let the data guide your main feed posts.”
[41:05] Adley -
Build Your Personal Brand:
Invest time in developing a unique and authentic personal brand that stands out and resonates with your audience.
“Find something unique that represents your brand and use it consistently across all content.”
[32:58] Sean Cannell -
Join Mastermind Groups:
Adley highlights the value of accountability and continuous learning through mastermind groups or coaching programs.
“We become like a fractional member of your team, offering weekly accountability and feedback.”
[42:35] Adley
Conclusion
Sean and Adley wrap up the episode by reiterating the importance of implementing the discussed strategies to achieve viral success. They encourage listeners to take immediate action, leverage available tools, and continuously refine their content creation processes.
“This episode is fire. If you're getting value, hit the like button and share wherever you listen.”
[25:36] Sean Cannell
“Every good thing that happens to us is not ours to keep. It’s to share the knowledge.”
[39:54] Adley
Connect with Adley:
- Instagram & TikTok: @AdleyShow
- Website: viralish.com
- YouTube: The Adley Show
This episode serves as a comprehensive guide for content creators aiming to amplify their reach and impact through strategic video creation and distribution. Adley's insights and proven methods provide listeners with the tools necessary to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of online video marketing.