Fifteen Minutes of Shame: How a Twitter Mob Nearly Ruined My Life

by Des Hague

Warren Buffet once said that all it takes is five minutes to ruin a reputation. For Des Hague, it only took forty-two seconds. In 2014, Hague’s life was a bona fide rags-to-riches success story. After nearly twenty years of steadily climbing the corporate ladder, he had risen from living in the back of a fish-and-chips shop to becoming the CEO of one of the top hospitality providers in the world. But when a video surfaced on Twitter of him kicking a dog in an elevator, everything changed. A mob formed on social media that spread like wildfire. Despite expressing deep regret for his actions, he was forced to resign from his job, and his family was threatened. What the mob didn’t know was that the person depicted in the short video clip was the exact opposite of who Hague really was―a man who had survived a childhood of physical and sexual abuse, spent decades building a loving family and a high-flying career, and raised millions to fight child homelessness. Though ultimately there was little harm to the dog, his life was nearly destroyed in a few short days by thousands of people he had never met. In Fifteen Minutes of Shame, Hague tells the inspiring story of how he overcame the odds to find improbable success and not only reveals the person behind the forty-two-second clip but makes a compelling argument against the dangers of embracing cancel culture.

Genres: Nonfiction

272 pages, Hardcover

Published September 12, 2023

Reviews

[Taylor · Rating 1 out of 5]

THIS MAN **REPEATEDLY** KICKED HIS FRIENDS DOG. this book also has a suspicious amount of 5 star reviews from accounts that have never read a single other book. I guess you'd have to have some bots give you 5 stars when you attempt a redemption arc after literally abusing a dog and then try to make yourself the victim. 🐸☕️

[Heidi · Rating 1 out of 5]

i am disgusted by this man

[Johnny Custer · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Fifteen Minutes of Shame" is a compelling autobiography by Des Hague, a man whose life took an unexpected turn in 2014 when he found himself at the center of a Twitter mob. As a personal friend and former colleague of the author, I approached this book with a unique perspective, and I must say that Des Hague's candid account of his life and the events that led to his transformation is nothing short of remarkable.

The book offers an unflinching view into the tumultuous period of Des Hague's life, particularly the incident in 2014 that threatened to define him forever. What sets this autobiography apart is Des Hague's unwavering honesty in recounting his experiences, both the highs and the lows. He takes readers on a journey through his early years, providing valuable insights into the formative events and influences that shaped his character.

The heart of the narrative, of course, revolves around the infamous "elevator/dog" controversy. Des Hague doesn't shy away from the mistakes he made, nor does he downplay the severity of the situation. Instead, he bravely confronts the consequences of his actions and shares the emotional and personal toll they took on him and his loved ones. His willingness to take responsibility for his actions and acknowledge the pain he caused is both refreshing and commendable.

What truly shines in this book is the theme of redemption and personal growth. Des Hague emphasizes that one incident in 2014 does not define a lifetime of kindness and generosity. He shares the steps he took to rebuild his life, his commitment to self-improvement, and his dedication to giving back to the community. The transformation from a man embroiled in controversy to the kind, charitable, and generous person he is today is nothing short of inspirational.

Hague's writing is engaging and sincere, making it easy for readers to connect with his story. The book is well-structured, with a clear narrative arc that keeps you engaged from start to finish. It also provides valuable lessons about resilience, accountability, and the power of self-reflection.

In conclusion, "Fifteen Minutes of Shame" is a thought-provoking and uplifting memoir that showcases Des Hague's journey from adversity to personal growth and redemption. It's a testament to the human capacity for change and forgiveness, reminding us that one mistake does not define a person's entire life. Des Hague's story serves as an inspiration for anyone facing challenges, and it encourages us to reflect on our own capacity for empathy and understanding in a world where second chances are often needed and deserved.

[David Brenner · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a biography of a man's life beginning in early childhood. A childhood that began at the bottom of the socioeconomic ladder to say the least. It is a success story built on life's lessons, a relentless desire to improve oneself, risk taking, and putting one's family ahead of any personal goal. A fighter more than a shrewd planner. It's not a success story like many well-known, front-page businessmen of today. Daddy and mommy were not doctors and lawyers.

It is a story of many business and life lessons learned. Des Hague is Irish and English. It is written in prose. His words in his vernacular; complete with short sentences and unedited grammar. It's about a man scraping up the business ladder learning with every rung. References to songs are used throughout the story telling to build a timeline. Quotations by others (famous and not famous) are used to emphasize a lesson learned.

The book is fast moving. Throughout the book you will find yourself relating to many stories and want to tell the author, "Oh, that happened to me like this...". I truly want to share some of the stories here, but won't. You should read this book and maybe you'll be inspired to risk climbing your own ladder!

[Tre Lucas · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an amazing read from start to finish. A truly inspirational story and so much that everyone can learn from and benefit by reading this book.

[Yoni Rubin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aside from being a tremendously entertaining and educational read, it's a masterclass on how to combat and internalize the devolution of society over the last decade. Wokeness, cancel cultures etc. are setting us back in ways we won't be able to understand for many years, not to mention, senselessly destroying lives.

Mr. Hague's experience, storytelling and unique perspective make this a must read for anyone who is frustrated with where our country is headed.

[Ben · Rating 5 out of 5]

I HIGHLY recommend Fifteen Minutes of Shame: How a Twitter Mob Nearly Ruined My Life! A truly enthralling read that gives a raw look into a life of true ups and downs and shows that with the right attitude and willingness to be vulnerable nothing can keep you from being the greatest you. A great book for any and all readers - full of life lessons and a glimpse into our current society. Well done, Des Hague!

[Mark Finnegan · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is rare to be uplifted and inspired by someone's worst moment, but such is the nature of Des Hague. "Fifteen Minutes of Shame" is a riveting exploration into the dangerous waters of modern cancel culture. Using Hague's personal rags-to-riches tale as its backbone, the book delves deep into the stark contrast between one's lived experiences and the snapshot judgments made by the masses. It's a cautionary tale about the weight of digital judgment and a heartening story of resilience and redemption. Hague's journey underscores the need for empathy and understanding in an age of rapid social media judgments. It is a must-read for anyone navigating the intricate web of our digital age.

[Diane Ellis · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great read… I was inspired by Des Hague’s journey to success and his courage and perseverance in overcoming daunting challenges along the way. Des shares important lessons in leadership for anyone wanting to grow and excel regardless of where you are on your own journey.
Highly recommend !!!

[Bonnie Siegel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book in one sitting. It captures the essence of life... we make mistakes, we hope to move on!

But for Des Hague, a well regarded business leader and CEO, moving on has been filled with pain and remorse. His book reminds us that each of us are vulnerable at different times in our life, and that doing the right thing and continuing to lead with integrity should always be our moral compass. If you are interested in the "real deal", and not an influencers flouting life as perfect, read "15 minutes of Shame". It will give you the courage to move on and reset your course!

[Debora · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful book. It’s a rollercoaster of emotions! You will laugh, gasp, cry, be angry, and laugh some more. This books teaches that no matter how awful and unfair life can be, if we have a goal and out minds set up we can reach the sky! Loved it!

[Alyss Anderson · Rating 1 out of 5]

I got this book through a goodreads giveaway, and this is my HONEST review. This is the first book I ever DNF'd. I got 60 pages in of nothing but Des stroking his own ego. He tried to paint a "poor me" picture of his life growing up to cover up the narcissistic behavior he made apparent in his writing. In the beginning of the book, he stated that he was worried that the dog kicking incident would ruin his reputation as a loving husband. Sorry to say, but cheating on your wife would definitely destroy your "reputation of being a loving husband." That fact that you woke her up to tell her you cheated on her after arriving home after the dog kicking incident went viral in an attempt to soften the blow of the dog incident was heartless. In your opinion, only the cheating matter. You stated that in part 4 of the book. After I got bored reading the first 60 pages bored out my mind, I jumped to the back to see your excuse for kicking your friend's dog. That is where I learned of the absolute drivel you put in part 4. I did not read the whole book and have no intention of ever reading it fully. You say you slipped up and made a mistake. You wouldn't intentionally harm a person or animal but on your book you proudly talk about how you walked away from the steps tour brother was standing at the bottom of, to get a metal alarm clock that you threw down the stairs at him and it stuck in his forehead. If you were the type to keep control of his anger, you wouldn't have walked back to the steps with a weapon and threw it at your brother. This shows you had that kind of anger in you, and the dog incident isn't the only time it came out.

[J · Rating 1 out of 5]

The author got caught REPEATEDLY kicking a dog, and he wants you to know that he’s the victim 🙄.

Wild that there are so many 5 star reviews for this book. They HAVE to be fake.

[Kevin · Rating 5 out of 5]

In a world where reputations can crumble in the blink of an eye, Des Hague's memoir, "Fifteen Minutes of Shame," reveals the resilience of the human spirit and a sobering critique of the perilous landscape of cancel culture.

Warren Buffet once noted that it takes just five minutes to ruin a reputation. For Hague, it was a mere forty-two seconds captured on a Twitter video that threatened to obliterate everything he had worked for. In 2014, he was living the American Dream—a remarkable rags-to-riches story that had taken him from humble beginnings to the pinnacle of corporate success as CEO of a renowned hospitality company.

Then, the unthinkable happened. A video surfaced showing Hague kicking a dog in an elevator. The social media mob quickly descended, and within days, his life was turned upside down. The outrage spread like wildfire, and Hague was forced to resign from his position. His family faced threats, and he became a pariah in the court of public opinion.

But what the Twitter mob didn't know was the true Des Hague—a man who had endured a harrowing childhood marked by physical and sexual abuse, who had spent decades building a loving family and a thriving career, and who had raised millions to combat child homelessness. In "Fifteen Minutes of Shame," Hague peels back the layers of his life, revealing the person behind that fateful forty-two-second clip.

Hague's memoir is more than a tale of redemption; it's a searing examination of the dangers of cancel culture. Through his own experiences, he highlights how the rush to judgment in the age of social media can devastate lives without understanding the full context. He makes a compelling argument for empathy and thoughtful consideration before casting stones, reminding us that everyone has a story that may not fit within the confines of a viral video.

Hague demonstrates unwavering courage and resilience. He emerged from the depths of public humiliation with newfound strength, ultimately using his story to shed light on the complexities of human nature and the need for a more compassionate and nuanced approach to addressing wrongdoing.

In a world where scandal and condemnation often overshadow redemption, "Fifteen Minutes of Shame" serves as a beacon of hope. It is a compelling reminder that, even in the face of the harshest judgments, there is always an opportunity for growth, forgiveness, and understanding.

Des Hague's memoir is a look at the fragility of reputation and the strength of character. It's a story that will leave you contemplating the power of forgiveness and the consequences of a society quick to condemn. "Fifteen Minutes of Shame" is a deeply thought-provoking and ultimately inspiring read that will resonate long after the final page is turned.

“A gripping journey through the perils of cancel culture, 'Fifteen Minutes of Shame' shines a light on the importance of empathy and redemption."

"Des Hague's remarkable memoir is a cautionary tale for our times, reminding us of the consequences of snap judgments in the age of social media."

"In 'Fifteen Minutes of Shame,' Hague's resilience and redemption serve as a powerful reminder that second chances are possible, even in the harshest spotlight."

"A timely exploration of the high cost of public humiliation and the enduring power of the human spirit. A must-read for our social media-driven era."

"Hague's journey from the heights of success to the depths of infamy reveals the strength of character. This book is a call for a more compassionate society."

"A captivating narrative that exposes the underbelly of cancel culture, 'Fifteen Minutes of Shame' is a story of triumph over adversity and a plea for understanding."

"Des Hague's story is a powerful reminder that behind every headline, there's a human being with a story. 'Fifteen Minutes of Shame' invites us to look beyond the surface."

"This memoir is a compelling journey from shame to redemption, a story that challenges us to reevaluate our judgments and embrace empathy."

"In a world quick to condemn, 'Fifteen Minutes of Shame' offers a ray of hope. Hague's tale illustrates the enduring power of forgiveness."

"A thought-provoking and timely memoir that will make you reconsider the impact of cancel culture on individuals and society as a whole."

[Lisa Davidson]

Honestly, I asked to read this because it sounded interesting. I was unaware of the story behind this book. After I read it, I didn't give a review right away because I was honestly kind of angry.
So this guy is a super important business guy and he got caught on video kicking a dog, and the video went viral and people said mean things about him. That's the "fifteen minutes." He's upset that people are so mean about it, and he calls all the people who are mad about his animal abuse "haters" and says that people don't realize the real situation, which was that he was dealing with a misbehaving animal.
So I watched the video. He's alone in an elevator repeatedly kicking a dog while the dog is flat, clearly completely submissive.
It's disgusting that Des Hague thinks HE"S the victim.
I didn't look at the video right away, and I read about 50 pages before I thought, "Why is this guy telling so much detail about his childhood? How is he important?" But this guy really thinks he's that important and interesting and wonderful. He tells story after story after story about how wonderful he thinks he is, not even realizing when he tells on himself. For instance, he talked about how he had to save money by downsizing and didn't want anyone to lose their jobs, but then he basically proved that none of the cleaning staff was needed becasue to heck with them.
Even when he talks about kicking the dog, he doesn't get it. Des Hague went out of his way to find worse case of animal abuse so he could downplay what he did. Here's a clue: people who don't support animal abuse don't want to read about worse cases just for the fun of it.
The thing that really amazes me most is that this guy came up with this huge pile of dung poor excuse of a lack of apology with the aid of expensive people who are trying to help his image.
Thanks to NetGalley for letting me read this in exchange for a fair review

[Janalyn, the blind reviewer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dess Hague was born in England married his wife Carol and came to America and started climbing the corporate ladder and would eventually find himself on top only to be knocked off after a 42 second video of him kicking his mistress’s dog became public. I would be lying if I said this book wasn’t any good because it was funny witty introspective but the one thing I found prominent in the whole book is he never once admitted that kicking a dog regardless of its behavior is abuse he kept saying he kicked a misbehaving dog. He then went on to expound about all the pressure he was under that his wife was sick that his son had a concussion that he was in Canada having treatment for his own unnamed illness no I am not a fan of cancel culture and the Twitter verse I think those people sound ridiculous commenting on events where details or allusive and I think the majority of these people who comment on Twitter would be in the same boat if their past bad deeds were made public now having said that I have four dogs who I love immensely and I would never kick them in as far as being under stress lots of people have bad days they don’t kick dogs I still don’t think des Hage should’ve been fired or made to retire or resign because of it and even though I don’t understand how someone could kick a dog I know it is easy to do something momentarily that we regret for the rest of our lives as far as the book goes there were a couple of things I was dubious about but the majority of it I found Mr. Hage to be very likable and entertaining and as far as the book goes I definitely and highly recommend it because just like everyone there’s more to the author then what one can see in security footage that doesn’t even last a moment. I want to think the author AnNet Galley for my free arc copy please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.

[Stefanie Spadaccini · Rating 5 out of 5]

“15 minutes of Shame” is an extraordinary autobiography that chronicles the remarkable journey of a dear friend who has faced numerous challenges with unwavering determination and emerged triumphant. I felt humbled and immensely proud to be part of Des’s life.

Des Hague fearlessly opens up about the trials and tribulations he has encountered, offering profound insights into the depths of his struggles. From adversities such as loss, heartbreak, and personal setbacks, his story is an inspiring testament to the indomitable human spirit.

Des’s conveys his experiences with raw authenticity and vulnerability. His words effortlessly transport readers into his world, evoking a myriad of emotions ranging from empathy to admiration. The storytelling makes the book a truly engaging read.

As I reached the final pages of the book, I found myself profoundly moved by his unwavering spirit, their resilience, and his ability to find purpose amidst adversity. His story is a testament to the incredible strength that lies within us all.

I am honored to have been part of this incredible journey, and I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone seeking inspiration, hope, and a reminder that no obstacle is insurmountable.

[Mark A · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Fifteen Minutes of Shame" is a raw, no-excuses narrative that asks the reader to consider what is just punishment. As someone who has worked with the author, Des Hague, and known him for over 20 years, I, too, was surprised when I first learned of the Des's actions. It just simply didn't make sense, and the fallout was swift and severe. But as James Lane Allen wrote, "Adversity does not build character, it reveals it", Des tells his story with remarkable candor while taking full ownership of what he did. In a time when many prominent people are incapable of speaking truth because it would not be to their advantage, Des's willingness to admit wrongdoing is something to acknowledge. While many people have made mistakes they are not proud of or are out of character, it is yet another thing if your worst mistake is caught on video, and that dichotomy is what the reader is forced to confront and ask themselves what they would do if it happened to them, or what is just if it happens to someone else.

[DrPatty Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you want to learn how to deal with adversity by grace and grit and determination, "Fifteen Minutes of Shame: How a Twitter Mob Nearly Ruined My Life"! is a MUST READ. With humor and a tongue in cheek attitude, Des Hague takes you through all the trials and tribulations that life has dealt him, and, yet, he found a way to come out on top! This book will show you how you, too, can do the same. If you, or someone you care about has had life throw you a curve ball, this book will act as a guide to take you through your dark days and bring light to your life, once again. Thank you for being so honest and vulnerable with your life's journey Des Hague - your book will bring hope and light to many! Onwards!

[Jeff McRitchie · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the book Des really opens up his life and his heart and gets real with the reader. I really enjoyed reading about the journey, the triumphs and the failures in Des' journey. He really didn't hold anything back. It gave me a lot to think about when it comes to cancel culture, the power of social media and ultimately the ability for people to redeem themselves after a genuine mistake. The book is definitely worth reading and I hope it helps to open the conversation about the effects of Cancel Culture and how as individuals we need to be careful about the power of Mob mentality. Thanks Des for being so open and sharing your story. I can't wait to read the next book about where you go from here.

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

This amazing book captures the essence of courage, vulnerability, candor, determination, and the epitome of leadership on a scale seldom experienced.
Des Hague shares life events and experiences that would have broken many people. He used the strength gained from early life trauma to become a leader whose conviction, courage and accountability is unsurpassed.
His ability to both learn and forgive, while living and leading with a passion to do good in the world, is simply a superb example and catalyst for all of us learn what he did, the hard way to carve a more positive and solution oriented world through courageous leadership. His book will both touch and inspire each of us to new heights.

[Alexis · Rating 1 out of 5]

Why are there so many five-star reviews for an animal abuser?

I can't believe that Des Hague had the audacity to write an entire "poor me" book about rising above being called out and suffering the consequences for ABUSING A DOG.

Des, it doesn't matter how much money you raise for sick kids. That does not make up for abusing an innocent creature. It doesn't matter how much abuse you've suffered. That does not justify abusing an innocent animal. You are the problem, not the Twitter mob. If our justice system protected animals as it should, you'd be in jail, and losing your precious job would be the least of your worries.

You are an animal abuser who deserves no sympathy.

[Veena Rowe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Get ready for a rollercoaster of comedy, heart-tugging moments, and motivation that’s got the impact of a freight train. I went from laughing out loud to reaching for the highlighter, capturing those precious golden gems of wisdom. Des isn’t just giving us a glimpse into his most vulnerable and unfiltered moments – he’s daring us to flip our snap judgments. How many times have we been quick to judge without the full story? And in the midst of life’s chaos, Des serves up a timely reminder that bad days are mere blips on the radar, not life sentences.

[Manuel Rivera · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Journey of Resilience and Discovery!

I was truly captivated by this book from start to finish. The author skillfully weaves together a tale of personal growth, resilience, and the power of self-discovery. The narrative flows seamlessly, taking the reader on an emotional rollercoaster filled with ups and downs that ultimately lead to moments of discovery. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking a positive and uplifting experience.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

I guess addressing the very thing that has potentially destroyed your reputation was a brave move and actually the book is more than that. Modern life and times has created this online world that somehow isn't real but is, The story of this man who rose from rags to riches and then was cancelled is very entertaining on one hand but also inspiring on the other. Very good read and quite motivational, well worth a read. Thank you #NetGalley for the e-book to review.

[Sergio Beltran · Rating 5 out of 5]

As I was reading reviews got my attention and glad I took the time to read and remind myself we are not perfect, we have our weak moments in life sometimes making it a life changer,but I learned we have to take the lessons in life and refocus on what's next, overall I believe we are here to learn and develop to be better everyday, so just reading a human reality makes my opinion on this author even higher than the malicious reviews

[Keith King · Rating 5 out of 5]

Des Hague’s “Fifteen Minutes of Shame” is a great read showcasing his life having been born in N. Ireland and his family moving to England in his early childhood during the conflict. His struggles growing up in an abusive household before moving to America and rising to the top ranks of the corporate world only for it to be torn apart by a viral video.

[Lisa D · Rating 5 out of 5]

It seems unbelievable that forty-two seconds can change a person's life forever, but in today's world, that is precisely what happened to Des Hauge. In his book Fifteen Minutes of Shame: How a Twitter Mob Nearly Ruined My Life, Des gives us a glimpse into his upbringing and relentless pursuit of bettering his life. The book is full of some wonderfully funny moments and some tremendously low lows. It is punctuated with references to songs that bring the timelines full circle. There is a sad lesson here regarding the dark side of social media and the ability to swiftly ruin a person's reputation and change the course of their family's life forever.

[Patrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read from start to finish. Really highlights the determination and drive a person can have. Shows how someone can build a great life and how quickly it can be taken away. Best part, I’m in the book! You should read it!

[Amanda · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good story with a few slow parts. Overall a good book that most people would enjoy reading. Not my cup of tea.