The Origins of The Try Guys: How They Came Together at BuzzFeed

Introduction

The Try Guys are a popular quartet known for their adventurous YouTube content, characterized by their humorous takes on various challenges and experiences. Their journey began at BuzzFeed, a digital media company where they initially collaborated on projects. Understanding how these individuals came together provides insight into not just the formation of a successful group, but also the dynamics of creative collaboration within a larger organization.

Details

• Individual Backgrounds and Career Paths

  • Keith Habersberger
    • Background in improvisational comedy and performance.
    • Joined BuzzFeed after building a career in comedic arts.
  • Ned Fulmer
    • Educated at the prestigious Yale University, where he was involved with a comedy group.
    • Worked as a content producer and was known for his work in social media.
  • Zach Kornfeld
    • Gained familiarity with video production and storytelling.
    • Initially worked on various BuzzFeed projects before meeting the others.
  • Eugene Lee Yang
    • A filmmaker with a strong background in cinematography and editing.
    • Came to BuzzFeed with previous experience in creating compelling video content.

• The Formation of the Try Guys

  • The initial project that connected them
    • An idea emerged for a video series that would challenge traditional gender roles.
    • Each member was selected based on their unique comedic talents and backgrounds, forming a balanced team.
  • BuzzFeed's encouragement of creative collaboration
    • The company's culture at the time fostered experimentation.
    • Management supported projects that highlighted member dynamics and group chemistry.

• Collaboration and Creative Process at BuzzFeed

  • Brainstorming sessions led to the birth of "The Try Guys"
    • Ideas were shared openly, with focus on humor and relatability.
    • Each member contributed ideas based on their experiences and interests.
  • Filming and producing early videos
    • The team would often brainstorm video concepts during casual interactions.
    • Their first video was received well, leading to the request for more creative content.

• Scaling Their Brand Beyond BuzzFeed

  • Growth of their YouTube channel
    • Gained a significant following, which prompted them to consider working independently.
    • Their distinct personalities resonated with audiences, leading to a loyal fanbase.
  • Launching their own brand
    • After parting ways with BuzzFeed, they continued to create content as The Try Guys.
    • Successfully transitioned to independent creators, maintaining their original dynamics.

Conclusion

The Try Guys’ formation at BuzzFeed was a combination of individual talents and a collaborative spirit. As they came together to produce engaging content, their unique backgrounds and experiences allowed them to create something that resonated with a wide audience. Their journey from BuzzFeed to independent creators showcases not only their diverse skills but also the power of teamwork in creative endeavors.