Meet Carl Stevens – former Prom King, sports aficionado, twin and all around good guy. He’s the face of Invisible Children’s Livestream, and this weekend he’ll be hosting the live broadcast of the 2013 Fourth Estate Leadership Summit. He’ll be rubbing elbows with our special guests (hopefully not literally, but it’s Carl so you never know) and ensuring that the broadcast is the next-best experience to actually being at the Summit. We figured since you’re going to be seeing him a lot this weekend, it might be a good idea to get to know him. Normally, he’s the one asking the questions, but now the tables have turned.
You’re hosting the live broadcast of the 2013 Fourth Estate Summit. That’s a pretty big deal. Are you nervous?
Not really. I work with a really good group of people. Everyone keeps it relaxed and fun. Everyone we work with is great. The people that will be on the broadcast are there for a reason and will shed some light on some really deserving issues. I’m sure there will be some butterflies when we’re about to go live. Hopefully I don’t make any terrible jokes.
What’s unique about this broadcast versus actually being at the Summit?
Not everything translates easily from stage to screen. In that world you’ve got to come up with really cool, interactive things to share with those at home. In particular, the live broadcast will be focused on engaging with viewers. When you’re in the seats you’re absorbing so much great stuff, but when you’re at home you have the opportunity to call in, ask questions and really get involved in the story.
But everyone watching the broadcast should still be there next year, right?
Oh yeah, you’re missing out if you’re not in the room (Royce Hall). If anything, this broadcast should convince you to come next year.
The Summit is going to be full of surprises. Can you indulge in any of the them?
What I can indulge is that the Buried Life will be on the broadcast and they’ve chosen a person who they’re going to help cross something off their bucket list. Overall it’s going to be full of content that people are going to want to tune in for.
There’s been a long line of famous hosts in the entertainment industry – Dick Clark, Arsenio Hall, Bob Barker, Regis Philbin, Ryan Seacrest. Heck, they even let Seth McFarlene host the Oscars last year. Who inspires you the most?
A few people come to mind. When I was little, we used to watch Peter Jennings on the news, and I was always blown away by his composure and ability to just tell people what they needed to hear. Another example is British broadcaster Nick Grimshaw. He’s this radio host, and the way he interacts with guests is great. He gives no preferential treatment, and he just has fun with you. I try to relate to people the same way.
What about the 2013 Fourth Estate Summit appeals to you the most?
I’ve never seen any type of event that so readily equips people to take things away from it and actually apply it to real life. We’re dealing with a group of highly-motivated young people and educators, and for a lot of them this might be the first opportunity to go out and live what they’re passionate about. I’m really excited to see where these people are 50 years from now. It’s gonna be huge.
Enough with the fluff questions, time to get down to business. If you had to choose between Regis Philbin and Bob Barker to win in a street fight, who would you go with and why?
Oh this is easy, I already know. I’ve seen Bob Barker in Happy Gilmore. He’s got a strong right hook. I’m not messing with that guy. Regis has always reminded me of this little frog, but man when Bob Barker knocked out Adam Sandler – that’s one of my earliest memories of Bob Barker. Regis wouldn’t stand a chance.
I only ask that question because I think it shows a lot about a person’s character. You’re clearly a good guy.
Your favorite movie and your current favorite TV show both feature the same actor. You have to go on a roadtrip with one of the following: Jeff Daniels in Dumb and Dumber or Jeff Daniels in The Newsroom. Who would you choose and why?
Good question. Currently I would go with Will McAvoy. He’s a great leader and, from what I’ve seen on the show, he has a lot of conviction, and that’s something I’m trying to grow and develop. That being said, it’s a tough call.
Alright last question. Every famous broadcaster has a signature sign-off. What’s yours?
That’s a really good question. I could go the corny sentimental route. Probably something from Mr. Rogers. Watch his Emmy acceptance speech. It’s the most motivational thing I’ve ever seen. I’ll definitely be channeling him throughout the broadcast.
Thanks for chatting, Carl. Good luck on the broadcast. For those watching at home be sure to go to our website to register to watch for free.
Carl recently won an office-wide scooter derby. Jason Russell came in close second, clearly.
Think people should hear about this?