What I Learned Gaining Over 3M Followers on Social Media

Jordan Ferrone is an ice bath content creator with 2M followers on TikTok and 1.1M followers on Instagram. We asked him to write a guest post and share what he’s learned on his journey as a creator.

From Ice to Iron - My Journey as a Creator

It all started with an idea — to document a daily series of taking ice baths. 

But here in Winnipeg, Canada, winters are just built different. I had no idea what I was getting into, but I thought sharing this experience could inspire others to embrace discomfort. I jumped in headfirst, posting daily for nearly 50 days, but to my surprise, only a few people that I went to high school with and my Aunt Carol were engaging with my content. 

This is where the doubt started to creep in. Why was I even doing it? What’s the point. The thought of quitting played over in my mind every day.

Then, something clicked. I realized that the content wasn’t just about the ice baths; it was about connection. I stopped using motivational voiceovers and began speaking directly to the camera. This shift transformed my content.

As my content gained traction, I quickly learned that I was building a community. People began reaching out, sharing their own challenges and asking for advice on mental health and self-improvement.

There were many days when I felt like giving up, especially during those 50 days of silence. What kept me going?

1. Set a Purpose: Remind yourself why you started. For me, it was about personal growth and inspiring others.

2. Document Your Journey: Keep a journal or video diary of your experiences. Reflecting on your progress can reignite your motivation.

3. Celebrate Small Wins: Whether it’s a new follower or a positive comment, acknowledge your progress.

With growth came opportunities. I started partnering with brands that aligned with my values and my message. These collaborations not only helped me financially but also allowed me to connect with like-minded creators and entrepreneurs.

Now, as I train for my first full Ironman, I reflect on how far I’ve come. You don’t need to be extraordinary to achieve greatness. With an open mind, self-awareness, and the tenacity to stick with it, anyone can turn their passion into something meaningful.

If there’s one thing I want you to take away from my journey, it’s this: You don’t have to be special or have a unique talent to succeed. Embrace your hobby, share your journey, and don’t shy away from the challenges. Trust me, the rewards are worth it