Was It Great Television? What We Can Learn from Trump About Creating Content

Everyone talked about it. The media analyzed it, social feeds exploded, and late-night hosts had a field day. But let’s take a step back—was it really great television?

When Donald Trump, in the middle of a tense Oval Office exchange with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, casually remarked, “This is going to be great television,” he wasn’t just throwing out an offhand comment. He was, in many ways, directing the moment in real time—turning a diplomatic clash into a spectacle designed to hold the world's attention.

So what made this moment so engaging? And more importantly, what can content creators, marketers, and storytellers learn from it?

1. Conflict Creates Engagement

One of the oldest storytelling techniques is conflict—whether it’s in movies, TV shows, or even social media content. Trump's clash with Zelensky had all the elements of a gripping scene: tension, power dynamics, and an unpredictable outcome.

Lesson: Content that sparks debate, challenges assumptions, or showcases contrasting perspectives naturally grabs attention. If your content feels too safe, it might not be memorable.

2. Unfiltered Moments Feel Authentic

In an era where audiences crave realness, scripted and overly polished content often fails to resonate. What made Trump’s remark so powerful was its off-the-cuff, unfiltered nature—it felt like a behind-the-scenes moment, something we weren’t supposed to hear from a U.S. president.

Lesson: Authenticity wins. Whether you’re creating brand content, a personal vlog, or a marketing campaign, incorporating raw, unscripted elements makes it more engaging and relatable.

3. The Element of Surprise Hooks Viewers

People expect presidents to be formal, measured, and diplomatic. Trump, on the other hand, spoke like the neighbor who yells at you for parking in front of his car..His words shattered expectations, making them instantly newsworthy.

Lesson: The best content often surprises its audience. Whether through humor, an unexpected perspective, or a bold statement, breaking patterns makes people stop scrolling and pay attention.

4. High Stakes = High Interest

The moment wasn’t just compelling because of the words Trump used—it was because of what was at stake. The U.S.-Ukraine relationship, potential diplomatic fallout, and media scrutiny all made this a significant exchange.

Lesson: To make content compelling, tie it to something bigger than just the message itself. Why should your audience care? Frame your content around problems they face, industry shifts, or real-world stakes that matter to them.

Final Takeaway: Content Is a Show—Make It Worth Watching

Trump’s remark wasn’t just a reflection of his personality—it was a masterclass in audience psychology. He knew people aren’t just looking for information; they’re looking for entertainment, for emotion, for something that feels significant.

If you want your content to stand out, ask yourself: 🎬 Is there tension or contrast? 🎬 Does it feel real and unfiltered? 🎬 Does it break expectations? 🎬 Are the stakes clear?

Great content isn’t about fancy production—it’s about understanding what keeps people watching. And if a president can turn a diplomatic clash into must-see TV, imagine what you can do with your next piece of content. What do you think? Does controversy and conflict always make content more engaging, or can it sometimes push audiences away? Drop your thoughts in the comments! 👇