How We Got 150,000 Views in One Day on YouTube (And What I Learned)

Back in 2017, while working with Denver’s own Angotango Pictures, we decided to collaborate on a YouTube short film. What happened next was pretty unexpected — our video blew up with 150,000 Youtube views in just one day. Looking back, here’s what I learned from that experience:

1. Focus on an Upcoming Trending Issue

On a Monday morning, I noticed that net neutrality was about to be voted on, and Twitter was buzzing about it. The timing was perfect. I pitched the concept and wrote an initial script that we all then punched up together. It wasn’t about being 100% “right” on the issue, but more about capturing the conversation and applying it in a comedic way.

2. Look at the Issue Through a Comedy Lens

Taking a serious or trending topic and twisting it into an unexpected situation can make the message land in a fresh, entertaining way. Comedy gives you space to explore different perspectives and engage audiences who might not otherwise pay attention. 3. Accept Comments as Engagement — Even the Polarizing Ones

The video’s comments section was wild. Some people loved it, some hated it, and the debate was fierce. That kind of polarized reaction means you hit a nerve and got people talking — which is the goal on platforms like YouTube. Everyone wants to be “right” online, so engagement means your content is working. More engagement means more Youtube views. 4. Don’t Take It Personally

You put yourself out there, you’re going to get heat. Some people joked I looked like a school shooter (which, honestly, I found hilarious). Others said the script was stupid. That’s all part of the game. As long as nobody’s crossing dangerous lines like harassment or threats, you’ve got to have a thick skin. I’m grateful anyone watched at all. 5. Use Your Resources to the Fullest

Marla Keown scored us a restaurant location on a Saturday for shooting. We leaned on favors, local talent, and the Angotango crew’s equipment and editing skills. Megan Elisabeth Kelly, Nathan Pratt, and I acted in the film. We edited the entire thing in three days. This was a true team effort.

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6. Once It’s Out There, It’s Out There

Timing is everything. Our video aligned perfectly with the net neutrality debate and started buzzing immediately. The result? Angotango Pictures’ YouTube channel got monetized with the 1,000 subscriber benchmark in no time. One video, one big breakthrough. 7. Don’t Engage in YouTube Comment Fights

Some people swear by interacting in comments to keep engagement going — and sure, it can lead to more visibility. But debating your script with someone who makes Minecraft videos and has a public Navy SEAL wannabe playlist? Probably not the best use of your time. Use comments as leads or feedback but avoid getting dragged into endless battles.

8. Don’t Coast — Enjoy Success, Then Keep Moving

We hit our views, got monetized, but then a lot of other videos we shot never got finished or released. Sometimes momentum fades, and that’s part of the journey. You get opportunities, and if you don’t capitalize on them, it’s okay — just learn and keep moving. 9. Capitalize on Success if You Want a Career

We dreamed of being a creative collective, emulating channels we admired, and it felt like we were on track. But you have to commit and figure out how to build on that success sustainably. A one-off viral hit won’t carry you forever.

10. Have a Channel-Wide Plan and Stay Consistent

It’s not just about one video — think about your channel’s bigger picture. What kind of content works for you? How can it evolve seasonally or with your audience? Having a long-term vision and consistency is what builds lasting success.

Angotango Pictures

It took us just one week to get this done. I don’t have a full-time team at my disposal, and chances are you don’t either. But there are countless viral ideas out there waiting to be explored.  It took me much longer than one video to gain 1,000 subscribers or as many views on a single video. If you want more comedic content and behind-the-scenes stories, subscribe to my YouTube channel here:

This guy knows how to go viral