Tom Freston, the creative force behind MTV’s global revolution and author of the acclaimed memoir Unplugged: Adventures from MTV to Timbuktu joined FOLCS and shares behind-the-scenes stories from his groundbreaking career. With his trademark wit and warmth, he reflected on the wild intersections of media, music, and adventure that defined his journey from rock videos to remote villages, captivating audiences with stories of innovation, risk-taking, and cultural change.
Co-produced by City Winery at Pier 57.
Tom Freston
Co-Founder of MTV
Tom Freston is a co-founder of MTV and the former CEO of Viacom, where he oversaw Paramount Pictures. After launching a successful clothing export company out of Afghanistan and India, Freston transitioned into the media landscape, helping found MTV and bringing it to international fame in more than 150 countries. Before his Viacom roles, he ran MTV Networks for seventeen years, overseeing Nickelodeon, VH1, Comedy Central, and other legendary networks. He is a board member of Imagine Entertainment and a board member emeritus of both the American Museum of Natural History and the think tank New America. He currently serves as Board Chair of The ONE Campaign, an anti-poverty advocacy organization focusing on Africa. He is the author UNPLUGGED: Adventures from MTV to Timbuku.