How Sean Evans Hacked YouTube Virality—And Why He'd Walk Away Tomorrow | IDEA GENERATION

Shop exclusive releases and sign up for updates at Complex Shop https://cmplx.it/42euFjz In 2015, a pop culture-obsessed journalist from suburban Chicago had an idea. While anchoring for Complex News, Sean Evans was tapped by First We Feast founder Chris Schonberger to host Hot Ones, a YouTube talk show with a ridiculous premise that would soon find even more ridiculous success. Applying new media savvy to old media formats, Evans and Schonberger took a deceptively simple idea and gave it depth with rigorous research, sharp editing, and an undeniable respect for the classic interview format. In 10 years, Hot Ones has amassed over a billion views on YouTube and spawned a cottage industry of spice-centric products. But the ride to the top came with its own heat. The latest door to open led to their biggest move yet, when Sean and Chris partnered with the Soros Fund to buy First We Feast and Hot Ones from Buzzfeed for $82.5 million. And it all started with one idea… 0:00 - Intro 2:25 - Fear of Humiliation / Parents' Influence 5:13 - Benefits of College / Chicago Boat Tours 7:05 - Complex News / Becoming On-Camera Talent 11:30 - The Rock's Diet / First Viral Moment 13:50 - Hot Ones Origin Story / Tony Yayo's Influence 17:20 - First We Feast Team Chemistry / "The Pirate Ship" 20:40 - Navigating Contract Negotiations / Blocking an MTV Deal 29:40 - Traditional Media Influences / Value of an Emmy 32:10 - Current Media Landscape / Streamers Kai Cenat, IShowSpeed 36:20 - Guest Curation / Why Politicians Don't Appear on Hot Ones 41:20 - Brett Baker / Power of Community 43:40 - Toughest Interviews / How Fame Has Changed Sean 49:20 - Lessons From CEOs / Becoming an Executive at First We Feast 51:45 - Buying Hot Ones and First We Feast From Buzzfeed 54:30 - Future of Hot Ones / Live Events Subscribe to Complex on YouTube:    / complex   Check out more of Complex here: http://www.complex.com   / complex     / complex     / complex   COMPLEX is a community of creators and curators, armed with the Internet, committed to surfacing and sharing the voices and conversations that define our new America. Our videos exemplify convergence culture, exploring topics that include music, sneakers, style, sports, and pop culture through original shows and Complex News segments. Featuring your favorite celebrities, authoritative commentary, and a unique voice, our videos make culture pop.