Ones to Watch: Commentary creators - the new daytime TV
Curated by Megan Collins, Cultural Anthropologist, Generational Expert and contributor to the MTD blog
It’s clear: the media landscape is changing, largely due to the rise of the internet and the dawn of the information age. Gone are the days where audiences rely on the local news anchor, nightly national news, or sunday paper. Now, they are reliant on “news feeds” that can feature anything from a life update from their best friend to a favorite celeb’s latest scandal to actual serious world events. Similarly, we’re seeing a move in influence from the Culture, Lifestyle, and Thought Leaders of the past (think critics, columnists, and talk show hosts) to new internet-forward personalities. These creators are playing in the space between hard news and human interest to provide nuanced cultural commentary rich with insight into the internet and how it functions. As the writers strike continues to impact late night and daytime talk shows (Dermot Mulroney walking off The View), we wouldn’t be surprised to see celebs and studios leaning into this space to drum up interest for their upcoming releases (think JLaw on Chicken Shop Date & Hot Ones.)
YouTube video essayists providing Gen Z social commentary
Lately it seems like Shanspeare (they/them) is the one to watch among Cultural Analysts. Not only have I heard several of my colleagues speak their praises, artists/creator Sari Shyack (who we featured a few months back) also is a fan! This channel is one of the most innovative up-and-comers in the YouTube commentary space. On their channel, Shanspeare does longform deep dives into pop culture from an extremely online perspective and through a uniquely Gen Z storytelling lens. For instance their latest video is almost an hour exploration into A.I. called Tech Billionaires are ‘Afraid’ of A.I. Should We Be Too? Thoroughly researched and well-sourced Shanspeare is setting a new standard for media literacy with an aesthetic flair!
TikToker & marketing professional tracking the brands, media, and celebs that are breaking through online.
One of my mutuals and most valuable TikTok follows, Liz is a professional marketer and incredibly leaned-in digital creator. On TikTok, her content sits at the intersection of extremely online pop-culture and marketing. Most recently, she’s been breaking down The Barbie Movie’s incredibly robust press strategy and countless brand partnerships. I especially recommend Liz for accessible industry commentary around awards season and red carpets. She often hosts impeccable cross-platform livestreams with smart, relevant, and digestible added context. I was glued to her Don’t Worry Darling Cannes coverage last year.
Tech, business, & productivity thought leader
You might have heard of Tim Ferriss from his 2007 best seller “The 4-Hour Workweek” or its more recent counterparts: "The 4-Hour Body" and "The 4-Hour Chef." In addition to being an author and investor, he also has a popular podcast, "The Tim Ferriss Show.” On it, he interviews highly prestigious guests in business, tech, & entrepreneurship. In a recent interview with Colin & Samir, he sat in the interview chair and offered his insight as a long-time productivity expert. He covered two points I loved. The first, that creators should keep their values in mind as they approach the ever changing digital landscape and its impossibly demanding algorithm. But he also stressed the importance of trying new formats and experimenting with ways to meaningfully reach your audience. Check out his content for thought-provoking questions and conversations to make you a better entrepreneur, creative, and overall communicator.