Summary of Key Points
Zhang Chaoyang started live English broadcasts ten years ago due to depression, with the initial goal of using speaking as a way to relieve stress. Unexpectedly, his persistence over the past decade has turned him into a knowledge-based internet personality (IP). This journey not only helped him overcome his struggles but also reshaped his approach to learning and his perspective on the world. In the age of AI, he emphasizes the irreplaceability of human-generated content and makes it clear that he has not chosen to become complacent; instead, he continues to focus on managing his company.
Detailed Analysis
1. The Initial Purpose of Live English Broadcasts: From a “Mood Relief Tool” to a “Daily Routine”
Ten years ago, Zhang Chaoyang was suffering from depression, and his doctor advised him to talk more to release stress. He initially just followed along with CNN broadcasts, but eventually, he started live streaming in English—even if there was only one listener. He found this activity meaningful, simply because it encouraged him to speak more every day. His persistence has led to over 2,000 broadcasts and the reading of more than 10,000 English articles. His English broadcasts have evolved from a temporary means of coping with his mood to a regular part of his daily routine, becoming a recognizable IP in the field of knowledge-based live streaming.
2. The Biggest Change: Relearning to “Really Learn” and Becoming a Better Person
Zhang Chaoyang was once turned off by exam-oriented education, despite being admitted to prestigious universities like Tsinghua and MIT. He felt that much of the knowledge taught was useless and lost his interest in learning. His English broadcasts have changed this: he now reads English news on various topics (geopolitics, economics, technology), gradually realizing that knowledge can help him understand the world. Learning English has become more than a tool; it has become a way for him to see the world through different perspectives. He has come out of depression and says, “I have become a better person compared to ten years ago.”
3. The Difference Between His Two Knowledge IPs: Engaging English Courses and More Esoteric Physics Lessons
Later, Zhang Chaoyang also launched live physics lessons, but their purposes were completely different:
- Physics Lessons: These are like brand promotion; he spends an entire day deriving complex formulas, which 99% of the audience doesn’t understand, but industry experts find them impressive.
- English Lessons: They are part of his daily routine, focusing on the latest English news, catering to the needs of Sohu Video’s audience. He believes that creativity lies in following one’s own interests rather than imitating others. These two IPs reflect Sohu Video’s long-term commitment to producing high-quality content.
4. The Irreplaceability of Human-generated Content in the AI Age
While AI can provide information quickly, Zhang Chaoyang insists on reading original English texts and does not plan to use AI-powered avatars for his broadcasts. His argument is simple: AI-generated content is like tomatoes grown with fertilizer—lacking the natural flavor of real vegetables. People watch news not to appear knowledgeable but out of curiosity about how others view the world. The emotional depth and perspective that come from real people cannot be replicated by AI. Original content is the “fuel” for AI; without high-quality human creation, AI cannot improve its capabilities. Just like Hollywood movies and Nobel Prize-winning literature, the core value lies in the emotions and stories of real humans, which AI cannot replace.
5. Not Complacent: Still the “Helmsman” of Sohu
Zhang Chaoyang emphasizes that his English and physics lessons are just side hustles; he spends most of his time managing the company, developing products, and overseeing operations. He has not stepped back from his role as a CEO but views content creation as both a personal passion and an integral part of the company’s brand.
Conclusion
Zhang Chaoyang’s ten years of live English broadcasts represent a personal journey of self-improvement and a successful model for knowledge-based live streaming. His story shows that by pursuing genuine interests, one can not only transform themselves but also find irreplaceable value in the AI era. His commitment to staying active and innovative reflects the perseverance and innovation of traditional internet professionals in new fields.