Forbes Under 30 2026 list is out and I have thoughts

@mewmoney

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Why it worked

The video taps into a common sentiment of skepticism and critique towards highly publicized lists like Forbes 30 Under 30, while also acknowledging the achievements of some individuals. This creates a relatable and engaging narrative that encourages discussion and debate.

Summary

The creator discusses the Forbes 30 Under 30 list, expressing that while some individuals on it are impressive, the list itself is a capitalist publication that doesn't necessarily recognize true merit. She critiques the idea that people pay to get on the list and argues against unfairly criticizing those who are recognized.

Structure

1Introduction of Forbes 30 Under 30 list
2Praise for some individuals on the list
3Critique of the list's capitalist nature and the idea of paying to be included
4Defense of those on the list and critique of public backlash
5Call for a more nuanced approach to recognizing achievements

Product placement

Forbes (publication): publishes lists of successful individuals and companies. It merely appears as a source of information in this video. Removing it would not change what happens in the video. Rhode (skincare brand): a skincare brand co-founded by Hailey Bieber. It is mentioned as the company that was sold for $1 billion. Removing it would change the narrative of the video.

On-screen text

Forbes Under 30 2026 list is out and I have thoughts

Original caption

Critical thinking involved in this take so stay with me here #fyp #forbesunder30 #haileybieber #browntiktok #careertok

More from @mewmoney

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Transcript

It's the time of year where you're all going to be fucking unbearable about this Forbes 30 under 30 list that just came out. Just here to say like, I actually do think it's cool. I think it's cool that there's a 24-year-old building an mathematical AI model that can prove an answer with 100% certainty. I think it's cool for drug development and discovery and the entire pharmaceutical industry that has been praying on us for years and also doesn't have as much efficiency as we all think it does. I also think it's cool that there's creators that have built entire platforms before you come for me on. You just have to pay to get on the list. I was on the list. I am a PR incom's consultant. You don't pay to get on the list. Yes, you can pay a consultant to help facilitate your entry to the list and your application. Similar to how you'd pay a manager or give them a cut to get you into a brand deal. If you don't already have the platform and the revenue and the audience, you're just not going to make it and it's the same for this list. And so justice for Haley Bieber who you all bullied and said that she paid to get on this list and she sold her company for a billion dollar. Before you come for me on the we should be recognizing teachers, we should. But the Forbes magazine, the most capitalist publication in one of the most capitalist countries in the world that literally publishes the list. That's the publication you think is all of a sudden going to start recognizing teachers. Like they're not. So I'm all for a critique of traditional media. I'm all for a critique of age-related myths. I've personally been a victim to them. But I don't think the answer is going through this entire list and ragging on everyone who you don't think deserves to be on the list. Like it's weird.