If you watched a Buzzfeed video from 2015 to 2019, you might recognize Chantel Houston. From creating viral videos to directing mission-driven content at Farm Sanctuary, Chantel’s career pivots have taught her the value of passion and adapting to new audiences. In this episode, she shares her strategies for impactful content, converting viewers to followers, and the power of trying something new. Tune in for tips on nailing the first three seconds of a video — plus thoughts on reinvention from Taylor Swift to Beyoncé!
Key Takeaways
Chantel shares how working at Buzzfeed taught her to think strategically about content and set the stage for her career.
We discuss the power of social media trends when making viral content — and how to make a trend your own.
Curious how far your career can take you? Chantel tells us how she got to live a lifelong dream while working at the Olympics.
We talk about developing formats for content, so you don’t have to start from scratch every time.
About Chantel Houston
Content Director at Farm Sanctuary
For as long as Chantel can remember, she’s always had a camera in her hands. Whether it was her dad’s MiniDV, her Canon XSi, or a RED, the rush of creating something has always been the same.
Chantel formally studied Television/Broadcast Journalism at Chapman University but gained most of her media expertise during her 5 ½ years at BuzzFeed.
Since leaving BuzzFeed, she has worked with Refinery29, ATTN, the Biden/Harris Presidential Campaign, Amazon, Hulu, Netflix, Best Buy, Home Depot, and Lowe’s. As a director, Chantel believes her role is to blend diverse ideas into a unified vision rather than imposing her own or micromanaging the crew.
For social content, the most crucial time is 0-3 seconds...You have to make a connection with someone essentially instantly.
