Open Book with Anthony Scaramucci The Man Who Changed Youth Culture - Tom Freston
Jan 8, 2026
Tom Freston, co-founder of MTV and former CEO of Viacom, shares insights from his adventurous career. He recounts his unexpected path to entertainment, including cultural lessons from his time in Asia that shaped his leadership style. The conversation dives into MTV's impact on music culture, the creative freedom it offered filmmakers, and the high-risk decisions that led to launching channels like Comedy Central. Freston discusses changing cultural norms and his approach to staying youthful, highlighting the importance of creativity and risk in leadership.
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Starting A Business In Afghanistan
- Tom Freston built a clothing business while living in Afghanistan and India for eight years, selling to stores like Bloomingdale's and appearing in Vogue.
- He made millions, lost it, returned to New York, and landed an interview at the company that became MTV.
Risk And Confidence From Unusual Markets
- Living and running business in turbulent places gave Tom confidence to take risks and expand MTV globally.
- That experience also taught him to manage eccentric people and operate without conventional corporate methods.
Why Music Videos Exploded
- Music videos were already popular in Europe and filled a promotion gap created by limited radio airtime.
- MTV combined music and television to introduce American audiences to a new visual music language that accelerated song familiarity.
