Crazy Corpo #18: TikTok – The App That Shook the World
Alejandro Entredicho Jr. CPSL?
Professional Sales & Leadership Trainer | Creator of Salesprudence? & FLAME Methodology? | Sales Performance Strategist | 10,000+ Hours of High-Impact Coaching | CLDP?, AIRS?–ECRE, CPE?
TikTok, the short-video sensation, has evolved into far more than just a platform for dance trends and viral challenges. With over 1 billion users worldwide, it has become a cultural phenomenon, a marketing powerhouse, and—controversially—a geopolitical flashpoint. But behind the filters, algorithms, and endless scroll lies a story of global influence, controversy, and the staggering power of social media in reshaping modern society.
From Viral App to Global Titan
TikTok was born in 2016 when Chinese tech giant ByteDance launched the app as "Douyin" for the domestic Chinese market. A year later, it expanded internationally as TikTok, and its acquisition of the popular lip-syncing app Musical.ly in 2018 supercharged its global growth. TikTok didn't just explode onto the scene—it redefined it. By 2020, it had captured the coveted Gen Z audience, and by 2023, it was shaping trends, careers, and even consumer behavior across 150+ countries.
What sets TikTok apart is its algorithm—a mysterious force that turns ordinary users into overnight sensations. Unlike platforms that favor curated followings, TikTok thrives on discovery. Its "For You" page curates content based on user behavior, keeping audiences hooked in a loop of personalized entertainment. It’s a platform built to consume attention, and it has succeeded spectacularly.
The Ban That Shook America
As TikTok’s influence grew, so did concerns about its ties to China. Critics argue that ByteDance's control over TikTok poses a national security risk, with fears that user data could be accessed by the Chinese government. In 2020, former President Donald Trump signed an executive order to ban the app, citing security concerns and labeling TikTok as a potential tool for espionage. This led to a whirlwind of legal battles and negotiations, with Microsoft, Oracle, and Walmart all vying to buy TikTok's U.S. operations.
Although Trump’s ban ultimately stalled, the scrutiny didn't fade. In 2023, bipartisan concerns resurfaced, with several U.S. states banning TikTok on government devices. The company continues to deny allegations of data misuse, even opening "transparency centers" and investing heavily in lobbying efforts to rebuild trust.
A Cultural Juggernaut Amid Controversy
Despite the political chaos, TikTok remains an undeniable cultural force. It has democratized fame, making influencers out of everyday users. Businesses are flocking to the app, leveraging its viral potential to market products in innovative ways. Entire industries—from music to fashion—are being reshaped by TikTok trends. The platform isn’t just a stage; it’s a springboard for movements, brands, and even activism.
But TikTok’s rapid rise hasn’t been without criticism. Concerns about its impact on mental health, particularly among younger users, have sparked debates about screen time and digital well-being. Moreover, the app has faced scrutiny for its content moderation policies, algorithmic transparency, and handling of sensitive issues like misinformation.
Trump’s TikTok Revival
Former President Trump remains vocal about TikTok. While no longer in office, his critiques of the app persist, framing it as emblematic of broader concerns about China’s influence. Trump’s stance resonates with a segment of his base, blending national security fears with his ongoing critiques of Big Tech. Whether as a political talking point or a symbol of U.S.-China tensions, TikTok remains firmly in his crosshairs.
TikTok’s Next Chapter
TikTok's future is as uncertain as it is fascinating. As it faces continued scrutiny in the U.S., India, and beyond, the company is doubling down on transparency initiatives and diversifying its business model. It’s exploring e-commerce, advertising innovations, and even extending into new media formats.
Will TikTok survive its political challenges and cement its role as the defining platform of the digital age? Or will its ties to China and ongoing controversies hinder its momentum? One thing is clear: TikTok isn’t just an app—it’s a battleground for culture, politics, and the future of global influence.
Stay tuned for Crazy Corpo #19, where we dive into yet another corporate saga of power, ambition, and controversy!