What Creators Can Learn From Mr. Beast

Hey honeys and hustlers,

Love him, hate him, or love to hate him - you have to respect the sheer scale of the platform that Mr. Beast has created. While I hold respect for the discipline and out-of-the-box creative thinking that has gotten him to 200+ million subscribers, it wasn’t until I saw Dan Mace on an episode of the Colin and Samir show speaking about Beast Philanthropy that I understood how deeply committed he is to creating an impact on an equally grand scale.

Beast Philanthropy is a non-profit started by Mr. Beast that operates here in North Carolina. The 501(c)3 is designed to be monetized by its own YouTube channel, a formula that has proven to be extremely successful in raising funds and awareness for causes like hunger and homelessness.

In addition to operating a food pantry here in North Carolina that is feeding 21 different communities with food deserts, Beast Philanthropy has also:

• given $3 million in aid to Ukrainian refugees

• flown kids to the Soccer World Championship

• given away $30 million in free food

You don’t have to like his videos, and you may not agree with the idea of filming yourself while you help those in need. Whatever your stance, I believe that it’s undeniable that Mr. Beast has proven that creators can change the world with videos. Truthfully, I feel that the most important thing he’s highlighted is that no matter how much money he gives away, he can’t change the world by himself. He pivoted from giving money to strangers simply for the shock value to giving money to communities of people on a scale matching the level needed to make a true impact. I think there’s an important lesson in there for other creators – you can use your platform to intentionally and strategically help those in need. And you don’t need to have a platform the size of Mr. Beast’s to do it.

Here’s a short video about Beast Philanthropy and the filmmaker behind it - one that will hopefully serve as a little motivation for you to create your best work with the best people for the best reasons.

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In Readworthy News

Spotify expands its deal with Riverside

Spotify is getting rid of its internal capabilities to edit and record audio, and integrating with a more robust platform for creators - Riverside. Riverside is the platform I use to record remote episodes of Honey & Hustle and they’ve been innovating rapidly in the remote video creation space. I’m excited for this partnership to continue to grow.

The Vince Staples Show is now on Netflix

Vince Staples has been named the funniest person in Hip-Hop and is a top contender for the best podcast guest of all time (his appearance on Hot Ones is comedic gold). He created an indie iteration of The Vince Staples Show many years ago that he published on his YouTube channel. Since getting his acting chops up in Abbott Elementary, White Men Can’t Jump, and more roles, he’s moving the production to Netflix accounts everywhere. Watch this hilarious video of him describing The Vince Staples Show. (Did you notice the inspiration for our current newsletter logo? 😉)

Dunkin Donuts extended commercial success

Dunkin Donuts has arguably done the best job at making the most of their Super Bowl ad shoot. They had a spot during the Super Bowl, created a “behind-the-scenes” cut featuring Ben Affleck, Tom Brady, and Matt Damon throwing a football decked out in Dunkin Donut jumpsuits, AND released this four-minute piece of the entire ad story. If they won’t do it I will – shoutout to the creative producer and team behind all these incredible pieces! As you’re watching this four-minute video, just remember - you’re not bored, you’re locked in.

Applications and Programs

• The 2024 NFL Films’ Women in Sports Filmmaking Experienceship is designed to inspire and develop female talent in sports cinematography, sound capture, and design. It will provide a behind-the-scenes look at techniques unique to sports filmmaking. To learn more information and apply click here. Applications are due February 29th.

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