"I was a server": IShowSpeed tells Shannon Sharpe that a 9-to-5 job is way harder than streaming

On November 27, 2024, IShowSpeed appeared on the Club Shay Shay podcast with Shannon Sharpe. During the episode, the former NFL player asked the YouTuber whether content creation and livestreaming are harder than a 9-to-5 job.

The comparison between streaming and conventional jobs is ongoing, with many internet personalities weighing in. It began in February 2024 when a clip of Twitch star HasanAbi discussing the difficulties of streaming compared to other occupations went viral.

Since then, various content creators, such as Asmongold and Pokimane, have shared their opinions on the topic.

IShowSpeed, who has become a streaming sensation over the past couple of years, also shared his perspective on the Club Shay Shay podcast. He revealed that before streaming, he worked as a food server at a caretaker's home, which he found much harder than his current career.

IShowSpeed said:

"Is streaming harder than having a 9-to-5? When I was 15 I did have a job. It was a caretaker's home. I worked in the kitchen at a caretaker's home, and I was a server. I used to give them food, and deliver food. But, um, let me tell you this. No, no. When I worked there, it was way harder."

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IShowSpeed says he doesn't "get how people even say that" streaming can be harder than conventional jobs

According to IShowSpeed, conventional jobs requiring a 9-to-5 work shift are much harder than streaming. The YouTube star described his previous job as a server as mentally draining and expressed surprise that some people believe livestreaming is more difficult:

"It's just draining, you know? Mentally, it is just, nah. I don't even get how people even say that."

Shannon Sharpe then offered his take on the issue, suggesting that most 9-to-5 job holders are not doing something they love. He asked IShowSpeed if he loves streaming and whether it motivates him to work:

"I think that 9-to-5, most people are not in love with 9-to-five. You love streaming, so you don't look at that as work. Because if it was something that makes you go, "Phew, got to go do that job again.' You work for you and you love what you do. That's the thing that gets you out of bed. Is that how you feel? 'Man, I can't wait to stream!'"

The content creator agreed with Sharpe, stating that he loves coming up with ideas for his streams.

"Yeah, yeah. I can't wait to get some ideas in there."

IShowSpeed's innovative ideas have paid off, with the YouTuber going from a breakout star a couple of years ago to being nominated in the Streamer of the Year category at the Streamer Awards 2024 alongside industry giants like Kai Cenat.

He's also currently heading the US edition of the Baller League with Brazilian football star Ronaldinho.