Published Oct 6, 2024

First Time Founders with Ed Elson – This Founder Makes Viral TV Shows For TikTok

Scott Galloway converses with Adam Faze, co-founder of Gymnasium, about TikTok's transformative role in entertainment and politics, discussing the platform's ability to innovate storytelling, mobilize communities, and reshape Hollywood's future through rapid content creation and monetization.
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  • TikTok's Impact

    TikTok's rise has dramatically shifted the entertainment landscape, challenging Hollywood's traditional dominance. highlights that TikTok's 1.6 billion users spend an average of 90 minutes daily on the platform, a stark contrast to the declining film and TV industry 1. , co-founder of Gymnasium, argues that Hollywood's slow and bloated nature can't compete with the speed and accessibility of TikTok, where anyone can create content instantly 1.

    The reality is, it's too big, too bloated and too slow to ever make an impact in this generation.

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    Faze also notes that while TikTok doesn't pay creators directly, brand sponsorships offer significant revenue opportunities, highlighting a shift in how content creators monetize their work 2.

       

    Hollywood's Uncertainty

    The future of Hollywood appears uncertain as it grapples with the rise of platforms like TikTok. emphasizes the industry's reliance on middle-class workers, whose livelihoods are threatened by declining opportunities in traditional media 3. He suggests that many in Hollywood may need to pivot to new roles or industries as the landscape evolves.

    I don't think that we can hope that Hollywood's gonna come back. This might be what it looks like for a very long time.

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    Faze also discusses the mixed reactions from Hollywood's elite, noting that while some recognize the need for change, others resist platforms like TikTok, fearing the loss of traditional prestige 4.

       

    Reels vs. TikTok

    Instagram Reels is emerging as a competitor to TikTok, yet it remains distinct due to its integration within the broader Instagram experience. points out that TikTok's appeal lies in its focus on entertainment rather than social interaction, unlike Instagram, which is more socially oriented 5. He notes that while Instagram Reels is gaining traction, it still lacks the same level of user engagement as TikTok.

    It's almost too social. And I think the thing that's so magical about TikTok is, again, I actually don't want to see content from my friends.

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    Faze believes that despite potential bans, the demand for short-form content will persist, with platforms like Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts ready to fill any void left by TikTok 4.

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