Thirteen years ago, Jimmy Donaldson, better known as MrBeast, was just a teenager filming videos in his bedroom. Today, he’s the face of a $1.5 billion empire, with over 100 million subscribers on his main YouTube channel and a combined social media following of 600 million. But what’s even more astonishing is how he did it. A leaked 36-page memo from one of his employees has revealed the blueprint behind his success—a systematic approach to creating viral content that has turned him into one of the most influential figures on the internet.
The Rise of MrBeast: From Zero to Billionaire
MrBeast’s journey is nothing short of a modern-day legend. Starting with nothing but a camera and a dream, he built a YouTube channel that now rakes in a staggering 1.5 million in monthly ad revenue alone. But Youtube is just the beginning. His ventures like Mr. Beast Burger and Feastables, have added hundreds of million to his networth. Feastables alone hit 100 million in revenue in 2023. So, what’s the secret behind his success? According to a leaked memo, it’s not just about creating viral videos—it’s about building a content machine that operates with the precision of a Fortune 500 company.
The First Rule: This Isn’t Hollywood
The first line in MrBeast’s production guide sets the tone: “This is not Hollywood, and I do not want to be Hollywood.” While others chase fame and glamour, MrBeast has built his empire on a foundation of hard work, innovation, and a ruthless focus on results. His approach is systematic, almost mechanical, and it’s this discipline that has allowed him to outpace competitors who rely on luck or trends.
The Three Qualities MrBeast Looks For in His Team
One of the most revealing aspects of the leaked memo is MrBeast’s hiring philosophy. He doesn’t care about traditional hierarchies or fancy resumes. Instead, he looks for three key qualities in his team members:
- Coachability: Team members must be willing to learn and adapt.
- High Intelligence: They need to think critically and solve problems on the fly.
- “A-Player” Mentality: They must be driven, ambitious, and willing to go the extra mile.
This focus on talent has allowed MrBeast to build a team that operates like a well-oiled machine. But it’s not all sunshine and rainbows—his stance on talent is ruthless. If you’re not delivering, you’re out.
The Content Machine: How MrBeast Creates Viral Videos
MrBeast’s content strategy is a masterclass in understanding what works on YouTube. His videos are designed to grab attention within the first few seconds and keep viewers hooked until the very end. Whether it’s giving away millions of dollars, building wells in Africa, or hosting insane challenges, every video is crafted to go viral.
But it’s not just about the ideas—it’s about execution. The leaked memo reveals a meticulous production process that includes everything from brainstorming sessions to post-production edits. Every detail is planned, from the lighting to the thumbnail design. It’s this level of precision that has made MrBeast’s channel the biggest in YouTube history.
Beyond YouTube: Building a Business Empire
While YouTube is the cornerstone of his success, MrBeast has diversified his income streams in ways that most creators can only dream of. MrBeast Burger, his virtual restaurant chain, generated over $150 million before he moved on to other ventures. Feastables, his snack brand, is on track to become a household name. These businesses aren’t just side hustles—they’re integral parts of his empire, each contributing millions to his bottom line.
The Leaked Blueprint: What We Can Learn
The leaked memo isn’t just a peek behind the curtain—it’s a roadmap for anyone looking to replicate MrBeast’s success. From his focus on team building to his systematic approach to content creation, there’s a lot to unpack. But perhaps the biggest takeaway is this: success isn’t about luck or talent alone. It’s about hard work, discipline, and a willingness to innovate.
So, the next time you watch a MrBeast video, remember: what you’re seeing isn’t just entertainment. It’s the result of a carefully crafted system that has turned a broke teenager into a billionaire. And while not everyone can be MrBeast, there’s no denying that his blueprint is one of the most valuable lessons in modern business.