In an era where commencement speeches often lean on celebrity names or motivational clichés, one address rose quietly, without fanfare or fame, and became one of the most watched and shared graduation speeches of all time.
Jon Fisher, a serial entrepreneur and author, delivered the University of San Francisco’s December 2018 commencement speech. What followed was something rare: not overnight virality, but an organic global spread driven by the power of authenticity, relevance, and emotional resonance.
A Message That Crossed Borders
Fisher’s message was refreshingly countercultural. While many speakers urge graduates to “go big,” “grind harder,” or “chase greatness,” Fisher stood onstage and said the opposite:
“You can be successful, and still prioritize your family. You can win, and still be kind.”
In a world fatigued by hustle culture and toxic ambition, that message felt like a lifeline. It wasn’t glamorous — it was grounded. And that’s exactly why it resonated across the globe.
The Viral Climb
Unlike celebrity speeches boosted by media or PR machines, Jon Fisher’s speech grew slowly and steadily. Viewers shared it not because of who he was, but because of what he said.
YouTube clips labeled “This speech will change your life” and “Best commencement speech you’ve never seen” began appearing across channels.
As of 2025, Fisher’s address has accumulated over 38 million views across uploads, placing it among the top 5 most viewed commencement speeches of all time, alongside icons like Steve Jobs and Randy Pausch.
Translation, Amplification, Globalization
The speech’s accessibility helped fuel its reach:
Translations and subtitled versions appeared in Spanish, Chinese, Arabic, and Hindi, among others.
Motivational platforms and entrepreneurs shared excerpts across LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok.
It was reposted in lists of “underrated life advice” and “speeches that should be taught in school.”
Why It Worked
- Universality: The themes of balance, gratitude, and choosing family over ego speak to people across cultures, careers, and ages.
- Authenticity: Fisher didn’t posture. He spoke plainly, without performative drama. That made it more powerful.
- Timelessness: The speech didn’t depend on pop culture references or fleeting trends. It holds up today, tomorrow, and likely ten years from now.
Final Thoughts
Jon Fisher’s speech didn’t trend on Twitter or get broadcast on CNN. It simply spoke to people. That, in a noisy world, may be the most extraordinary thing of all.
In a time when loud voices dominate attention, it was a quiet voice that earned the world’s respect.