A fast-growing livestream industry is giving young people in China a new way to earn a living and pursue their dreams. But behind the polished performances are long hours, intense competition, emotional labour and an algorithm that can make or break careers. In this episode of the CNA Correspondent podcast, Otelli Edwards speaks with Correspondent Melody Chan, who followed one of Shenzhen's largest livestreaming companies to meet the performers and production crew driving this booming business.
Highlights:
00:00 Intro
01:04 Being in a livestreaming facility
03:33 The mental toll of being a livestreamer
05:52 Being at the mercy of algorithms
08:35 The line between accessibility and exploitation
10:46 Is the industry willing to go professional?
13:12 Is there a future for livestreaming as a flexible gig work?
16:08 Hopes and anxieties facing young Chinese people today
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