Chris Schonberger is the founder and CEO of First We Feast, a media company at the intersection of food and pop culture. He is also the creator and executive producer of the groundbreaking celebrity interview series, Hot Ones, which has amassed more than three billion views and attracted stars like Lady Gaga, Kevin Hart, Scarlett Johansson, and Conan O’Brien. Founded in 2012, First We Feast has helped define a new era of premium, TV-quality programming on YouTube, garnering numerous awards and nominations, including two Emmy nominations, two James Beard Awards, and multiple Webby and Streamy Awards. Under Chris’ leadership, Hot Ones has also expanded beyond the screen with products including Hot Ones hot sauces, snack mixes, and games, as well as collaborations with brands like Shake Shack, Popeyes, and Reebok.
Chris started his career as a journalist contributing to NPR, Entertainment Weekly, Time Out New York, and more. He graduated in 2006 with BA in English Language and Literature from Harvard University, where he wrote his honors thesis on the convergence of Gothic and postmodern traditions in Bret Easton Ellis’ American Psycho. Born in Washington, D.C., Chris currently lives in Brooklyn with his wife, three five-year-olds, and dog. He is a Fellow of the inaugural cohort of the Michael D. Eisner Arts & Culture Fellowship and a member of the Aspen Global Leadership Network.
