By Tom Tietjen

From the creators of Bear World Magazine comes Bear World TV: a dynamic new video platform serving up weekly news, entertainment, and culture made for and by the bear community. Streaming now on Bear World Magazine’s website, YouTube channel, and social platforms, the channel features five hosts delivering snappy two-minute segments that capture every facet of bear life—from nightlife and travel to pop culture, humor, and community happenings. Each segment brings a fresh perspective, blending fun, flair, and authenticity, whether it’s a comedic dive into niche bear culture, curated party picks, or globe-trotting adventures. Among the standout features is What to Know with Joe, sponsored by DeviousSaint.com, where host Joe Martone keeps viewers up to date on national happenings. “I spotlight the movers and shakers, and the everyday legends who carry the bear world on their hairy shoulders,” he explains. “If it makes you say, ‘aw damn, I wish I’d gone to that,’ I’ve got you covered.” We sat down with Joe Martone to learn more.

Bear World Magazine has been around for 13 years. Why launch Bear World TV now?

Joe Martone:  We live in a changing media landscape! It’s constantly evolving. it’s only natural that Bear World Magazine would be looking to the next phase. As for me, I’ve been a content creator for some time now. This is a whole other level and has pushed me to make media I didn’t think I could do.

The channel is a collaboration of five distinct voices and styles. How has it been working alongside Marquis the Honey Bear, Alexander Rodriguez, Ravi Roth, and Hunter Harden?

We move fairly independently, but we all have a group chat every now and then where we catch up, ask each other for insight and input. It’s a bonus to have a little family that gets your groove. 

Your segment, What to Know with Joe, focuses on national happenings and spotlighting movers and shakers in the bear world.

On my channel, I try to emphasize people that make a difference in the community and I like to spotlight places that feel like home.

Can you share an example of a recent event that feels like home to you?

Gotta give a shout out to our friends in Sydney. Nothing is hotter than Mardi Gras Down Under! 

How do you see your segment contributing to a more inclusive and authentic portrayal of the bear community?

The world is diverse. It holds everyone. We all deserve a corner of it to unwind and be ourselves. If I can help a bear find that place, I’ve done my job.

Looking ahead, what do you hope What to Know with Joe and Bear World TV as a whole will achieve in terms of impact, growth, and connection with the global bear community?

I hope the channel will inspire the community to remember who we are and what we’re here for. Everyone was born with a need to understand ourselves, to connect with each other, and live the best lives we can.  That includes bears.

Tune in at bearworldmag.com and follow @bearworldmag on all platforms.