With 17 million followers and over 500 million monthly views across his social media platforms, Simon Squibb has built an audience most influencers can only dream of.
He has become one of the worldโs most influential voices in the realm of entrepreneurship, largely down to his approach โ which is far from boring or didactic.
His viral short videos โ one has an accumulated watch time of 23 years โ follow a similar formula. Squibb walks up to strangers, asks about their dreams and then offers business advice and sometimes even investment.
The format has struck a chord with younger generations. But unlike most full-time influencers, Squibb is not motivated by money or fame.
Not only did he achieve financial freedom and retire with his wife a decade ago, but he also finds fame more burdensome than enjoyable.
โBeing famous is not a good idea โ but if you have a purpose, the influence is totally worth it. I love the influence. I hate the fame,โ Squibb says over coffee at Hong Kongโs IFC Mall.