How To Build A 1.5 Million Following Online As A Writer - The Cultural Tutor

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Have you ever thought about making a living as an online writer or content creator? Today’s guest quit his job at McDonald’s to write on Twitter full time, and within months he had grown his page from nothing to 1.5 million followers, just from writing one thread a day. Sheehan Quirke is the man behind The Cultural Tutor, a huge (and until now faceless) Twitter page all about art, culture, and history. In this conversation we’ll talk about Sheehan’s road to success, the power of writing online, and the importance of sharing your thoughts and feelings with the world. This is a great insight into how you can change your life by writing and following your passions. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
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00:00 Intro
01:20 Sheehan’s backstory
17:17 The power of writing online
30:36 Building a following on Twitter
43:14 Growing The Cultural Tutor page
58:39 The research and writing process
01:08:49 The tension between business and art
01:28:26 Sheehan’s writing process
01:45:25 Leading a meaningful life
🔗 CONNECT WITH SHEEHAN
🐦 Twitter / culturaltutor
💻 Website culturaltutor.com/
🔗 CONNECT WITH ALI
📲 Join My Telegram Community - t.me/+bH5gLHty5kBiOGZk
🎥 KZbin Channel - / aliabdaal
🐦 Twitter - / aliabdaal
📸 Instagram - / aliabdaal
💻 Website - aliabdaal.com
👥 Linkedin - / ali-abdaal
📚 RESOURCES MENTIONED
Boethius - The Consolation of Philosophy geni.us/TGEW
📄SHOW NOTES & TRANSCRIPT
Visit the website for the transcript and highlights from the conversation - aliabdaal.com/podcast/
🎙 ABOUT THE PODCAST
Deep Dive is the podcast that delves into the minds of entrepreneurs, creators and other inspiring people to uncover the philosophies, strategies and tools that help us live happier, healthier and more productive lives.
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[@therat-xv7fy]

If you can afford to quit your job: fine, go for it. But it's not all or nothing. For those people around here who can't just quit, who have caring responsibilities or who struggle with their health: you can also follow your passion at a slower pace. It's totally fine to take ten years to write your first book instead of two. The journey is so much more important than finally reaching the destination. In my experience, it's all about consistency, which also involves saying no to other things a hell lot of times, and not so much about speed. Also, you might want to consider that writing a book is a mentally straining process and it can actually be great to have some stability (e.g. by working a part-time job). Plus, it can make you so much more efficient if you only have a few hours a day or week to write. The important thing is to get started even if circumstances are not ideal and the plan is not all laid out and success by no means guaranteed. Enjoy the ride!

[@stephaniebrigham-brock928]

Out of all the interviews from multiple shows that I’ve seen…this is my very favorite. This guy is just so real. No exact rules…he’s living and enjoying his work and life. Enjoyed tremendously! Such an inspiration.

[@Theunsarcasticbeing]

This is like watching brain Vs heart talking to each other. Their approach towards life is so different and that dichotomy emerging in their appreciation for each other even though they don't necessarily live like that is beautiful to watch!

[@LeeM1992]

Deep Dive is probably, bang for your buck, the most valuable podcast in this genre at the moment. It differs from a lot of the others in that It doesn’t feel over saturated with a bunch of ‘experts’ all disagreeing with one another on the same topic to be controversial. These are just good quality inspirational guests who are telling their own proven success stories, for us to withdraw little nuggets of wisdom from. Great work. ☝️

[@Kaiyes_]

dude is a classic english gentleman. a rare breed. Long back, 20 years ago while I was in Hertfordshire uni, I had a friend like this. This sort of class comes from your inner self, regardless of money. Which is evident from this gentlemen's macdonald's job.

[@dashasands]

Sheehan, we need a KZbin channel. Could listen to him for hours!

[@rollierollout]

This was so refreshing! Usually, there is a full narrative constructed around how and why a successful person got to where they are, and I imagined it's finely combed through by a PR firm or something. This is raw and real and I appreciate that a heck of a lot more. Thanks for the fascinating conversation! There are so many gems of inspiration here 😊

[@captainslogcabinretreat]

Ali, this is your best interview. Absolutely brilliant - and it's obvious how genuinely into the conversation you were. Bravo, sir!

[@AparnaGurudiwan]

My god his story!!! I need to stop crying and complaining and feeling sorry for myself and get to work 🙆‍♀️🙆‍♀️

[@ChrisHurstyyy]

Well said

[@AparnaGurudiwan]

@@ChrisHurstyyy 😅

[@aname4309]

Can't fit into words how needed this was to me. Most useful episode to new writer-wanabees trying to understand the process from the simplest details. Huge thanks !

[@sharingsparks3621]

I've listened to this epidode on the podcast like 3 times already. Now I'm watching the video while I work. This one hits.

[@AA-jh1mc]

Touched to tears. Thank you so much, to both of you, for the chance to listen to your conversation. Take care and lots of love .

[@thrawn_150]

Best podcast episode I’ve listened to this week from any podcast. I appreciate how he didn’t talk about things he didn’t know and was hesitant on giving advice. I think too many guests give advice too freely.

[@iamkevinkouassi]

This guy is a breath of fresh air-truly.

[@MullOver.]

As a new online writer on Medium (0 Followers) and as a New young KZbinr (13 Followers) this conversation resonates so much with me!!!! I took a commitment with myself to post one new Article on Medium and one KZbin video per week. No results so far, that's why this video was incredibly inspiring for me! Thanks Ali for sharing this conversation. Is just Gold.

[@catellogasparo2783]

Man I Wish you all the best. You have a new follower

[@jhoaaa]

I don't know if you've seen Nicolas Cole interview her in Deep Dive but he's got some amazing advice on writing online. I highly advice to check everything he posts about that to be honest lol.

[@MullOver.]

Not only I saw that video but I also read his book. I also made two videos about that episode, however, thank you so much for the help!@@jhoaaa

[@angelina-codes]

I was wanting to watch one of your KZbin videos to give you a shot as a new KZbinr. Unfortunately I immediately clicked off the video as your audio quality was absolutely terrible, please look into setting up your audio equipment properly I’m sure it’ll pay dividends in viewership!

[@A.Montgomery]

This is by far my favorite episode as well. Since I saw Sheehan yesterday in another interview with Alex O'Connor, I immediately researched him and subscribed to get weekly inspiration from art. As a creative person this is one of the best interview I've watched so far. Great guy!

[@leadgenjay]

Sheehan's journey from McDonald's to Twitter fame is truly inspiring. For entrepreneurs looking to replicate his success, remember that consistency is key. Writing daily not only improves your skills but also keeps your audience engaged and growing.

[@ChrisHurstyyy]

Thanks

[@MariadeLourdesAniesSanch-ze7hf]

man every one is my body reason again is good

[@MariadeLourdesAniesSanch-ze7hf]

I like people change please

[@MariadeLourdesAniesSanch-ze7hf]

I like new job online problem no one care me

[@MM-oz9gq]

😅

[@magnuslomax]

Screw your routine, just get the thing done. Needed to hear this! Also love the reminder to set aside time for noticing and paying attention. Inspiration needs space to breathe.

[@lindahillan712]

OMG Ali... Love all of your guests but this is special... It is an amazing podcast/video & being sensitive with how things are going is beautiful.

[@aprilrose23]

one of the most engaging genuine free flowing eclectic podcast iv listened to in a long time. this made me realize i am the niche and the idea of passion, having enough… so enriching! thank you for this interview

[@carrieminns]

This interview was delightful. The Cultural Tutor is an absolute gem. Refreshingly real. I loved the whole 2 hours! And Ali, you are an incredible interviewer. You let him get to the heart of his responses to your questions even when it took a bit of time without interrupting him. As I said, I loved this so much.

[@leslynmoore]

Sheenan really needs a KZbin channel indeed. These are concepts that we know but overlook for a myriad of reasons, and we will all listen to him.

[@mariel_jimenez]

What an incredible conversation! Feeling inspired and refreshed! 🙌🏼

[@JenniferCadena]

Best interview I have seen in a long time. Great questions, great guest. He is so inspiring and transparent. Thank you really! I’ll quitting my job and I’ll start working on my dreams ❤

[@erfanomous]

What a great episode! So many takeaways for me from this conversation, but the main one is that I feel way more comfortable with myself and my imperfect routine in life… Thanks Sheehan for sharing your story and perspective in life!

[@LifeIsRootedInLove]

I’m sitting here crying listening - this came at the perfect time where I just decided to do the exact same thing. Thank you for all of this invaluable information and motivation to do the thing ❤

[@LifeIsRootedInLove]

Just sent my first newsletter that I’ve been saying I would do for 2 years now while watching this. I cannot thank you both enough!!

[@GlowWorm-km6yf]

This guy is a really brilliant guy Whatever he said was coming from his heart and soul Happy to listen to this beautiful conversation 💕

[@ArielZwolinski]

Oh I’m so jealous he finds it easy not to overthink starting! I’m in starting mode for waaay too long overthinking minor things!

[@riccardocecco]

Amazing episod with an amazing guest! Thanks Ali and Sheehan for sharing this 🎉

[@morocha520]

What a great interview! He does have a niche I think, he writes about the extraordinary behind the ordinary. For writers a lot of the time it's about the angle, the point of view...not the specific themes they write about. This was super inspiring, and must have been very eye opening for Ali Abdaal, because it's pretty much the opposite path to success. It's about raw inspiration and free styling as opposed to building systems and models. Thank you both!!!

[@anasyusuf1607]

Finally, uve released the episode we've all been waiting for! Keep up the great podcasting ur doing ❤ Not sure how helpful this would be, but I'd rather listen to random podcasts u release with super interesting people instead of people forced on here in order to keep up with a schedule. Again, love ur videos. Keep it up ❤

[@histufly]

Curiosity lives! As somebody always looking into "how?" it is great to hear from somebody delving into "why?". You have to recognize the "storyteller" to grasp this interview.

[@aformeziembrendal7860]

The right questions Different perspectives No interruption of thought process Observable transparency Sincerity Great value. Thank you. Merci beaucoup.

[@workthentravel]

What a beautiful conversation!

[@Dr.Abundant]

As a philosopher myself, what's fascinating is that he says he is cautious of philosophers when he himself is a philosopher. Great interview.

[@gingerlockhart6861]

What??? Such a fun surprise. Can't wait!!!

[@stanis_gaming]

This is the creativity power couple we deserve 🎉🎉🎉

[@nksharma2114]

34:00 - Giving your all. 40:00 - Doing not being 59:00 - Inspiration for new content 1:07:30 - Follow your curiosity 1:18:15 - Balancing mind & heart

[@Harr08]

I told you before, this is The Cultural Tutor, one of the rare Twitter accounts I follow!

[@Kirollus]

Loving it so far. He seems so intelligent and thoughtful

[@DataAI-qq3uj]

There will be season 2 soon.

[@mindiwilhelm4322]

❤ Fascinating.

[@AndrewsExperience]

What a wonderful passionate soul.

[@Carole.W]

Oh wow this is so inspiring... I'm 20 and i just started writing on Instagram and it's been so hard to gain followers but this is so inspiringg☺️

[@johnleesuccess]

keep up the great work!

[@JonnyMiller]

This was utterly fantastic.

[@user-ws8zr4ng9f]

great interview

[@AdamaLorna]

This was one of my favourite episodes! What a journey ✨✨

[@AdamaLorna]

Update having watched more, this is my favourite episode so far.

[@EmilyRsktt]

This is so helpful!!

[@jankarolarmenteroscastaneda]

Excellent content!

[@RetroBreak]

Awesome to put a face and voice to my favourite twitter account!

[@thecuriouseducator]

I adored this perspective. Developing the content consistently is part of it, but I hadn’t considered the value of reaching out to build a community in the early days. I’ve just been passively putting the content out there, and not consistently, but this has inspired me to be more intentional. 🙌🏽 Thank you Ali and Sheehan ♥️

[@suziemclaughlin18]

😂 I love that someone in his 20’s is saying mehhh sleep. It all depends. Everybody has a different ability to live with or without sleep. I do ❤ that he is so passionate about writing. Also… love he is so deep into philosophy. Makes for an interesting and deep life.

[@chineduemmanuel7882]

This was so great and real 😮

[@Iamjustaguy123]

For a guy who hates philosophy...He is pretty deep...loved it

[@acfitweightloss]

"have you lived?" powerful question

[@HaiLeQuang]

he looks exactly the kind of person behind The cultural tutor that I imagine. Look very classic =))

[@benasleo]

Dude… that knock at the end almost gave me a heart attack 😅

[@ATMcGWriter]

Very cool dude and interesting guy.

[@your_highness2551]

I loved this interview, too bad I can't ignore my emails... also can't ignore slack for 9 hours 5 days a week lol but I am writing more these days.

[@mohanad0408]

This guy made a living out of beautiful chaos.

[@ConnieQuiza]

I personably find him so relatable 😂

[@Survivorneers]

Appreciate the authenticity of this conversation 😊

[@Ctrl_Zei]

This guy seriously needs a book deal.. or something that fits his 'starving artist' persona. When he was describing his day/routine, it sounded like he was describing a caricature. His 'advice' at the end 'smoke as much as you want, drink what you want, just get the thing written'. He tweets! That said, I found this interesting and watched all of it. And if he writes a book I'll probably read it 😂

[@willl5970]

Very open and honest. Also, this guy says, "Via Media" several times. But when he tells us what he actually does and how he lives,... it doesn't sound very "Via Media". -If only Inigo Montoya were here... Unfortunately, it sounds like he's a madman-in-training who's going to burn himself out and end up in an Idaho Unabomber shack in 5 years. Who says living the stereotypical "crazy writer" lifestyle is the only way to do it well and with passion? I wish him well no matter what, though.

[@i-rogi]

I don't know what this guy will say, but for Christ's sake, don't quit your job.

[@motheobokaba]

😂😂😂

[@fivestar.s]

😂😂😂

[@rachelatchison1093]

💀

[@nyezinahsolomon]

Pick one; working for someone else or work for yourself

[@azrihar]

​@@nyezinahsolomonit depends on the individual. There are people who enjoy working for others. Plus, if everyone is working for themself, you won't be able to delegate.

[@kamusnainen]

You guys are talking about clickbait titels; my take to that is that I quite often would like to share something to a person that I might not know That well. At thatbtime a clickbait titel hinders me from doing that because me myself do not want to came across like a `clickbaity type`. I would much rather prefer a titel that describes well what is discussed so that anyone realy het the grips about what it really is all about

[@mike20855]

"i dont care much for philosophers. theyre weird". proceeds to give his take on philosophy and quote his favorite philosophers. joking aside i love his passion

[@manojkumar-in5jt]

wow

[@XayPrince]

41:02

[@shumailamalik9665]

From the river to the see Palestine will be free❤️🇵🇸. I stand against genocide, Free Free Pelestine ❤️🇵🇸.

[@stanis_gaming]

My new OTP

[@ThisIsNotWhatItLooksLik]

Why would he not work as a lawyer for a few few days a week vs Mcdonalds 5 days a week?

[@anzumanararunu1343]

What an inspiring and insightful video! As a writer myself, I found "The Cultural Tutor's" journey to building a 1.5 million following online truly remarkable. It's clear that dedication, authenticity, and a genuine passion for your craft are key ingredients for success in the digital age. I appreciated the emphasis on connecting with your audience on a deeper level, understanding their cultural nuances, and delivering content that resonates of the Ali Abdaal and the guest. It's not just about amassing followers but building a meaningful community around your work. I'll definitely be implementing some of these strategies into my own writing journey. Thank you for sharing your wisdom and experience

[@aubigney]

it’s so embarrassing when millionaires forget that elon musk builds shitty cars that explode, burned twitter to the ground, and keeps fathering children while also cutting maternity leave at his companies

[@nazmul217]

Hello there, I have analyzed your KZbin Channel and found some problems, do you want to talk about it as a whole?

[@mindiwilhelm4322]

Ouch! Rejected by Pizza Hut.

[@utsavtiwari7285]

😭😭

[@fatemehhosseini305]

His body language reminds me of Jordan Peterson.

[@hemmatv1582]

I've watched 4-5 of your interviews and it bothers me that you don't clarify what these guests are doing and make them successful. This guy writes online is not enough to mention, I want to know more facts. You dilute your very long interviews with lots of "bla bla" and after 30 minutes I have not understood anything at all about this person's profession and success. Do 15-20 min pods and talk about the most relevant.

[@thisricardopalma]

"the fluffier it sounds..." Belief is not "fluffier" mate! Get your head out of your analytical mind ffs!

[@elwirastadnik]

So stupid: all episodes about "making millions". None about how to be happy.

[@nicholasmanning4307]

What’s with the swearing in every interview?

[@XayPrince]

41:02