YouTube at 20: From Zoo Vlogs to Global Domination

Algorithm Nation: Living in YouTube's WorldTwo decades ago, a 19-second clip titled "Me at the zoo" introduced the world to YouTube. Fast forward to today, and the platform has evolved into a behemoth hosting over 20 billion videos, generating $36 billion in annual ad revenue, and boasting more than 3.5 billion monthly users.In this episode, Max and Lisa dissect YouTube's meteoric rise, its impact on media consumption, and the controversies that have plagued its journey. From adorable animal videos to full-blown influencer empires, YouTube isn’t just a platform—it’s an ecosystem that has rewritten the rules of content creation, capitalism, and chaos. But is it all just a digital circus, or has it truly revolutionized the way we live and interact?Join Max and Lisa as they break down the highs, lows, and viral lows of YouTube’s 20-year reign. Spoiler: it’s a whole lot more than cat videos.Note: This project explores the new creative potential unlocked by generative AI, showcasing how a single person, in just two hours, can curate (not create, but curate) a polished podcast series. I recognize the critiques around AI-generated content and the potential for digital clutter but invite you to take a listen on your next walk or drive and see what you think. Audio is AI-generated by Google's NotebookLM. Images by Grok-3 and Magic Studio.