How V Spehar built a news business from under a desk
It was technology and culture reporter Taylor Lorenz who first told news creator Vitus “V” Spehar to think of themselves as a journalist. It was 2022 and Spehar — the 43-year-old best known for their explainers as @UndertheDeskNews on social media — was two years into explaining the news online. They were interviewing Lorenz for...
In a world where the line between traditional journalism and social media influencing has blurred, one individual has emerged as a pioneer in redefining the role of a news creator. Vitus "V" Spehar, a 43-year-old social media personality, built a thriving news business from the comfort of their own home, starting with a simple desk. Spehar's journey from a casual news explainer to a respected figure in the industry began in 2020, when they started sharing bite-sized, easy-to-understand news updates on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
The turning point in Spehar's career came in 2022 when they were interviewing Taylor Lorenz, a technology and culture reporter, for their podcast. During the conversation, Lorenz encouraged Spehar to see themselves as a journalist, emphasizing the responsibility that comes with the public's perception of them as one. Initially dismissive, Spehar recounts how Lorenz's words resonated with them, leading to a shift in their approach to content creation.
Today, Spehar's videos, which cover U.S. politics, policy, and culture, are known for their conversational tone and engaging delivery. Wearing signature glasses and occasionally a suit, Spehar doesn't shy away from incorporating trending music, acting, or even dancing to help viewers grasp complex news events, such as the firing of Department of Homeland Security head Kristi Noem. This unique style has garnered Spehar a significant following, with nearly five million followers across TikTok and Instagram.
Beyond their social media presence, Spehar has expanded their reach by streaming live newscasts on YouTube, sending out a Substack newsletter to over 184,000 subscribers (with nearly 7,000 of those subscriptions being paid), interviewing politicians, and appearing on cable news networks like CNN and MSNBC. Spehar's influence extends beyond their online platforms, as they were also selected as a 2025 fellow at the Harvard Kennedy School's Shorenstein Center on Media, Politics, and Public Policy.
In an interview conducted in February, Spehar reflected on the decision to start reporting from under their desk, emphasizing the importance of accessibility and relatability in news coverage. They explained that their goal was to make complex information more approachable for a younger, often disillusioned audience, who are increasingly turning to creators like Spehar for their news.
Spehar's rise from a casual news explainer to a respected figure in the industry highlights the evolving role of journalism in the digital age. As traditional media outlets struggle to adapt, creators like Spehar are redefining what it means to be a journalist, blending the best of both worlds: the immediacy and accessibility of social media with the rigor and ethics of traditional journalism.
In an era where trust in traditional news organizations is at an all-time low, Spehar's success demonstrates that there is a growing demand for authentic, relatable, and engaging news content. By prioritizing transparency, accountability, and a genuine connection with their audience, Spehar has not only built a successful news business but also paved the way for a new generation of journalists who are shaping the future of media consumption.
