Vine: Six Seconds That Changed the World is a new documentary podcast uncovering the untold story of the app that shaped the internet before it vanished almost overnight.
Before TikTok, there was Vine, the six-second video app that defined a generation. The new eight-part documentary podcast series from Global looks at the layers of genius, chaos and betrayal that drove Vine’s spectacular rise… and it’s even more sudden collapse.
Hosted by digital culture expert and host of internet comedy and commentary show Scroll Deep, Benedict Townsend, the series explores how Vine set the stage for today’s creator economy, becoming the springboard for the likes of Logan Paul, Joe Rogan, and MrBeast, long before TikTok dominated our feeds.
With exclusive interviews from Vine’s co-founder Rus Yusupov, high-profile Vine creators including Aaron Crascall, Brandon Calvillo, Kenny Knox and Manon Mathews, and crucially, Twitter execs Karyn Spencer and Rich Arnold – who led the now-infamous meeting with top Vine stars that signalled the app’s unravelling – the series unpacks a pivotal moment in tech history.
Digital culture expert, Benedict Townsend brings his expertise to the podcast, exploring how Vine went from the tech world’s golden child, to quickly crashing and burning.
Known for his sharp analysis of internet trends, Townsend has built a loyal following for his insightful deep dives into online culture as the host of Talk of the Townsends and creator of Scroll Deep.
The podcast also features a line-up of some of the most respected voices in tech journalism including The Washington Post’s Taylor Lorenz, alongside Ryan Broderick and Bridget Todd. Their commentary helps make sense of what Vine meant then, and what it tells us now.
Speaking about the podcast, Benedict Townsend said: “If you want to see a magical glint cross someone’s eye, ask them about Vine.
“Vine was not just another app, it shaped a generation’s sense of humour, influenced how we consume content and paved the way for platforms like TikTok.
“This is the story of a platform that burned bright and disappeared almost overnight. I cannot wait for listeners to join us as we uncover the twisting story behind one of tech’s most compelling successes… and implosions.”
Vine: Six Seconds That Changed the World launches Wednesday 23 April on Global Player and all major podcast platforms.
