National Press Club podcast explains why something goes "viral"

We often hear about something becoming so popular is goes "viral." But what does that mean and why does it happen?

National Press Club member Matthew Ballard discusses this topic with Derek Thompson, senior editor at The Atlantic who writes about economics and media in the latest edition of the Club podcast Update-1.

They explore the science behind why some songs, books or movies become very popular and why certain headlines get more attention than others. They also talk about Thompson's new book, “Hit Makers: The Science of Popularity in an Age of Distraction.”

Update-1 is produced by Mike Hempen. The podcast can be heard here on the Club website or on iTunes, Sticher and Tunein.