By C.C. Clark, Matt Geffen, Katrina Horsey, Will Ogden and Campbell Slavin; from Drew, Marin Academy, Marin School of the Arts and University High Schools
A unique platform for news, commentary, and human interest has come of age in Brooklyn. From this single website, one can learn about lesser-known aspects of international conflict, get insights into blossoming art and youth cultures across America, learn fresh perspectives on sex and gender issues, and even watch a famous rapper discuss his favorite recipes. If any (or all) of these subjects sound tantalizing, VICE, the self-proclaimed “Time Warner of the Street,” is the news source for you.
This multimedia outlet has emerged in recent years as a powerhouse of online, video, broadcast, and print, with its main site and sub-brands covering a plethora of news topics and personal stories. From political turmoil and human rights crises to musical and artistic subcultures to cooking and relationship tips, nothing is off topic for one of the world’s most popular sources for commentary and current events. This past July, Fast Forward took a peek behind the scenes at the company that grew from a modest model of alternative journalism into a modern media empire.
Founded in 1994, VICE began as a print magazine but expanded into other, newer media with the birth of the new millennium. As the company’s evolved it’s encompassed several news and commentary sites, including Motherboard, Noisey, and Munchies, to name a few prominent examples. In addition, VICE has both its own HBO series and its own TV channel, VICELAND, with another HBO series currently in production. The New York office hosts nearly 1,000 employees—and there are many, many more around the globe. What’s behind the company’s ongoing growth and success? Fast Forward visited VICE’s Brooklyn headquarters to find out.