Andrew Schulz's Flagrant with Akaash Singh
Andrew Schulz's Flagrant with Akaash Singh
"The story doesn't have to be good. It just has to be told well." — Casey Neistat
"I think most people are just fucking great. Almost everyone." — Casey Neistat
"My entire life is just a vendetta against my seventh grade vice principal." — Casey Neistat
The podcast episode features a comprehensive discussion with Casey Neistat, offering a deep dive into his multifaceted career. Neistat reflects on his early days, including his entrepreneurial spirit which led to selling cannabis in his youth, and his subsequent journey into filmmaking and content creation. He highlights the foundational role his older brother, Van, played in shaping his creative development, particularly in the early viral success of his iPod battery video. The conversation touches upon the ethical considerations of AI in content creation, emphasizing the irreplaceable value of human soul and heart. Neistat also candidly discusses the challenges of vlogging, the pursuit of authenticity, and the unintended consequences of documenting one's life, including the impact on personal relationships.
A significant portion of the discussion is dedicated to Neistat's entrepreneurial ventures, including his tech company "Bean" and its acquisition by CNN. He recounts the arduous early years in New York City, living in challenging conditions, and the pivotal moments that shaped his perspective, particularly becoming a father at a young age. The conversation then shifts to his deep-seated love for New York City, portraying it as a profound muse that fuels his creative drive. Neistat elaborates on his storytelling philosophy, emphasizing the importance of structure and personal connection to create impactful narratives. He also touches on the complexities of fame, the appreciation he receives from New Yorkers, and the strategies he employs to manage public interactions.
Finally, Neistat explores the challenges of maintaining a consistent creative output, the allure of nostalgia, and the personal significance of his iconic sunglasses. He shares insights into his parenting style, balancing the desire for his children to be independent thinkers with the need for structure and guidance. The episode concludes with Neistat expressing his unwavering commitment to New York City and his passion for observing and translating the everyday human experiences he encounters into compelling stories.